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On the Special Epistemic Obligations of the Educator
No full textThis paper examines the relationship between educators' epistemic character and their professional responsibilities, arguing that the role of educator carries unique epistemic obligations. Drawing on virtue epistemology and the ethics of belief, Jeff Standley contends that these obligations stem from education's core epistemic aims: cultivating knowledge and understanding, teaching reliable methods of inquiry, and fostering intellectual virtues. The paper demonstrates how educators' epistemic character influences their ability to navigate complex epistemic environments, serve as role models, and avoid impediments to teaching caused by evidentially unsupported beliefs. While acknowledging that perfect epistemic character is unattainable, Standley argues for a “good enough” standard where educators must at minimum avoid significant intellectual vices that could hinder responsible epistemic inquiry and harm student development. He concludes by considering practical implications for educator recruitment and development, advocating for greater attention to epistemic qualities in these processes
Perceptions of adulthood in context: voices of young people with care experience in China
No full textThis study explores how young people with care experience in China perceive and construct their identities as adults, focusing on the interplay between socially defined and self-perceived markers of adulthood. This study employs qualitative design, drawing on semi-structured interviews with 34 participants and analyzed using thematic analysis. Despite being over the age of 18, many participants expressed uncertainty about their adult status, reflecting a disconnection between societal expectations and their lived experiences. Independence emerged as a central self-defined marker of adulthood, emphasizing self-reliance, financial autonomy, and the ability to navigate life’s challenges. Mental maturity, defined as the adherence to societal norms and responsibilities, was also identified as crucial to adult identity. These findings challenge conventional narratives that equate adulthood with specific life milestones, highlighting the need for a more nuanced and flexible understanding of adulthood. The study’s implications suggest that tailored support systems focusing on life skills development and mental maturity could empower care-experienced youth as they transition into adulthood. Future research should explore these themes further across different regions and populations in China to enhance the findings’ representativeness
The effects of complex training on performance variables in basketball players: a systematic review and meta-analysis
No full textIntroduction
Basketball requires explosive power, agility and change of direction (CoD) ability. Although often used interchangeably with agility, CoD is distinct: it involves rapid directional changes in response to a pre-planned stimulus, while agility also requires perceptual cognitive responses to unpredictable cues. In this review agility is considered under CoD, emphasizing the physical component that can be directly trained. Improving CoD and power is essential for optimal basketball performance. Complex training (CT), which combines strength and plyometric exercises, has emerged as a promising method. However, its specific effects on basketball player's physical performance variables remain unclear, warranting a focused systematic review and meta-analysis.
Methods
A structured search strategy was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA 2020) guidelines and the PICOS framework. PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases were searched to identify appropriate Randomized Clinical Trials (RCTs) relating to CT in basketball players, up to May 2025. Standardised mean differences (SMDs), with 95% confidence intervals (CI), were calculated using a random-effects model. Heterogeneity (I 2 ), sensitivity analysis, and publication bias were assessed using standard methods. Seven RCTs were included in the meta-analysis.
Results
Analysing within-group effects following CT demonstrated significant improvements in CoD speed (SMDs: 1.11; 95%CI: 0.56 to 1.66; p < 0.001, I 2 :53), and vertical jump performance (SMDs: −1.44; 95%CI: −2.16 to −0.72; p < 0.001, I 2 :91). However, between-group comparisons (CT vs. active controls) revealed significant improvements only in CoD speed (SMDs: −1.04; 95%CI: −1.61 to −0.47; p < 0.001, I 2 :57) and vertical jump performance (SMDs: 1.01; 95%CI: 0.46 to 1.56; p < 0.001, I 2 :86). Funnel plot analysis indicated moderate asymmetry for CoD speed and clear asymmetry with outliers for vertical jump performance.
Conclusion
Our findings demonstrate that CT significantly enhances jump performance and CoD speed in basketball players. This study highlights the efficacy of CT in significantly improving CoD speed and jump performance in basketball players. These findings support its inclusion in athletic conditioning programs and offer valuable insights for coaches and practitioners aiming to optimize sport-specific performance through targeted training interventions.
Systematic Review Registration
https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD420251057718 . PROSPERO (CRD420251057718)
VR Pet Therapy for Improving the Well-Being of Adults with Autism: A Pilot Study
No full textRecognition of autism has significantly increased in the last decade, with concerns on how to effectively support adults with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) as mental health continues to be a struggle needing to be addressed. This paper explores the integration of virtual reality and pet therapy for therapeutic intervention, investigating the feasibility and effectiveness of virtual environments simulating interactions to improve the social and psychological well-being of adults with ASD. To first determine requirements a mixed-methods approach was employed, looking to gather perspectives from both the wider ASD community, as well as NHS specialists through an online survey and in-person discussions. Both groups (ASD n=14, NHS clinicians n=9) provided insights to inform the design of a virtual pet simulation, which was followed by final user testing of the VR prototype itself again with an adult with ASD and NHS clinicians. Two test groups were conducted split between clinicians and an ASD “lived experience” adult testing the designed pet simulation, the first group looking at 5 themes; General observations, Applicability of the prototype for therapeutic treatment, Suggestions for improvements, Positive aspects, and Comfort for autism, and the second group looking at; Affection towards the dog, Realism, Excitement and surprise, VR interactions, and Comfort. Both groups provided in-depth comments and recommendations towards viability and overall findings suggested participants formed strong emotional connections with virtual pets in virtual safe controlled spaces. A set of recommendations is provided for future designers in the pursuit of more accessible environments for ASD users
Efficacies of Process and REACH Therapeutic Models on Forgiveness of Counsellor Trainees
No full textObjectives
People who have learnt how to forgive others tend to be better forgiveness counsellors. This study delves into the effectiveness of the Process and REACH therapeutic models on forgiveness for counsellor trainees.
Methods
The researchers used the sequential explanatory mixed method model, which involved the use of a questionnaire and interview guide to gather data for the study. The research design of the study was quasi‐experimental and an interview. Two hypotheses and one research question were formulated to guide the study. The population of the study consisted of graduate students from three Ghanaian universities, totalling 80 individuals. They comprised 34 males and 46 females. Sampling techniques that were used for both the quantitative and qualitative aspects were simple random sampling and purposive sampling, respectively. The Enright Forgiveness Inventory was used to collect pre‐ and post‐test data. For the quantitative aspect, the data were analysed using Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA). For the qualitative aspect, data reduction technique and content analysis were used to analyse the data.
Results
The study revealed that the Process and REACH therapeutic models had significant positive effects on forgiveness among participants. However, there was no significant difference in the forgiveness level of participants on the basis of gender.
Recommendations
Based on these findings, it is recommended that professional counsellors and psychologists should consider these two therapies as alternatives to improving forgiveness levels in their clients' lives
Caregivers nutrition knowledge and perspectives on the enablers and barriers to nutrition provision for male academy football players
No full textBackground
The assessment of nutrition knowledge, alongside the enablers and barriers to optimal dietary intake, in youth football players has previously been documented. However, there is comparatively little research on either of these within parents or host families, which is of value to understand given the vital role that these stakeholders play as the primary food provider to young football players. Thus, the purpose of this study was to assess the nutrition knowledge of these caregivers and explore their perceptions of the barriers and enablers to nutrition provision for male academy football players.
Methods
A validated 35-item online questionnaire (A-NSKQ) was completed by 30 parents and 31 host family providers of youth academy football players from 16 different professional football clubs in England. The questionnaire consisted of 35 questions (total), 11 of which focussed on the assessment of general nutrition knowledge (GNK) and the remaining 24 assessed sports nutrition knowledge (SNK). Scores are presented as a percentage for total and each sub-section (GNK & SNK) and classified by the following rating: “poor” (0–49%); “average” (50–65%); “good” (66–75%); and “excellent” knowledge (76–100%). Differences in Total, GNK and SNK were compared between parents and host families using Independent-samples t-tests, with the alpha value set at p < 0.05 for all tests. A series of focus groups was also conducted with six parents and twelve host family representatives from four clubs to explore their perspectives of the enablers and barriers to providing nutrition support to youth football players. Thematic analysis was used to interpret the data.
Results
Host family providers demonstrated significantly better total nutrition knowledge than Parents (49.95 ± 11.64% vs. p = 42.67 ± 14.43%; p = 0.035), although the knowledge of both groups is classed as “poor.” For the sub-sections of GNK & SNK, GNK was considered “average” and significantly better than SNK, which was classed as “poor” (GNK = 58.12 ± 16.87% vs. SNK = 40.98 ± 14.91%; p < 0.001). Host family providers reported significantly better SNK than parents (44.89 ± 13.21% vs. 36.94 ± 15.69%; p = 0.037) whilst no significant differences were observed in GNK between groups (61.00 ± 15.07% vs. 55.15 ± 18.33%; p = 0.180). Three key themes were generated relating to the caregivers’ perceptions of the barriers and enablers to their food provision: 1) Club Support and Communication; 2) Time and Financial Resources; 3) Player-specific Characteristics.
Conclusions
These findings suggest a clear need for football clubs to educate caregivers in the fundamental principles of healthy nutrition and football-specific nutrition requirements and encourage clubs to develop initiatives to better support caregivers in helping to young players to meet their dietary requirements
Residual stress analysis in robotically welded plates using phased array ultrasonics with validation through neutron diffraction and hole-drilling methods
No full textThis paper explores Residual Stress (RS) measurement in two robotically welded, S275 plates using Phased Array Ultrasonics for Residual Stress Measurement (PAURS) and Neutron Diffraction (ND), with the Incremental Hole Drilling (IHD) method employed for validation. Pogo ultrasonic simulation was used to model the Longitudinal Critically Refracted (LCR) wave and design the ultrasonic setup. Ultrasonic arrays operating at 5 MHz (8 elements) measured RS at a depth of ∼1.25 mm. Results show qualitative agreement among PAURS, ND, and IHD, with RS symmetrically distributed on both sides of the plates, validating the effectiveness of phased array probes for qualitative measurement. However, discrepancies in precise numerical values were observed across methods. As PAURS is a novel technique for welded samples, the paper highlights areas for improvement to enhance its quantitative measurement capabilities
Entrepreneurial Universities: Examining the role of universities as sustainable innovation change catalyst for regional development.
No full textThis thesis explores the evolving role of universities as sustainable innovation change catalyst for the regional development, positioning them not merely as educational institutions but as entrepreneurial hubs embedded within broader societal and economic ecosystems. Rooted in the growing discourse around the Triple Helix and Quintuple Helix models, the study is contextualized against the backdrop of increasing global emphasis on sustainability, digital transformation, and knowledge-driven economies. It critically examines how universities can shift from passive knowledge disseminators to active catalysts for social innovation, industry collaboration, and regional transformation.
Methodologically, this research employed a robust multi-method design combining primary qualitative data collection through six focused group discussions across three university settings which included Birmingham City University, QA Higher Education, and Ulster University with complementary secondary data was analysed. Data was analysed using thematic analysis within the NVIVO environment, allowing for the identification of key patterns and thematic clusters that reflect both disciplinary perspectives and institutional experiences.
The findings underscore universities’ expanding role in facilitating innovation ecosystems by fostering industry partnerships, community engagement, and entrepreneurial education. It offers an original contribution by advancing the conceptual understanding of the Triple Helix model into a Quintuple Helix framework, one that incorporates societal and environmental dimensions alongside academia, industry, and government.
This thesis contributes significantly to new knowledge by providing empirical evidence of universities' integrative roles in innovation-led regional development, while also offering a grounded framework for policymakers and academic leaders to rethink institutional strategies. It bridges the gap between theoretical models and practical application, emphasizing the strategic necessity of aligning university functions with sustainability imperatives and regional socio-economic goals
Variants within the MMP3 and COL5A1 genes associate with soft tissue injury history in elite male rugby athletes
No full textObjectives
To investigate associations between genetic variants within COLGALT1, COL1A1, COL3A1, COL5A1, KDR, MIR608, MMP3, NID1, TIMP2 and VEGFA and injury history in elite male rugby athletes.
Design
A case-control genetic association study was conducted on 184 elite male rugby athletes.
Methods
Participants were genotyped for 13 genetic polymorphisms previously associated with soft tissue injury using standard PCR assays. Injury data were collected via a self-reported injury-history questionnaire. Single-locus association and Total Genotype Score (TGS) analyses were conducted using χ2 tests. In addition, multifactor dimensionality reduction and inferred haplotype analysis were used to identify genetic interactions.
Results
The TT genotype of MMP3 rs679620 was underrepresented in the non-injured ligament group compared to the ligament sprain and ligament rupture groups (10%, 32%, 25%; P < 0.04, respectively). The T allele of MMP3 rs679620 was overrepresented in the non-injured tendon group compared to the tendinopathy group (50%, 38%; P < 0.02). The proportion of C allele carriers of COL5A1 rs12722 was higher in the tendon rupture group than the non-injured tendon group (96%, 75%; P < 0.02). Furthermore, the T-C inferred haplotype frequency of COL5A1 rs12722 and COL5A1 rs3196378 was higher in the tendon rupture, ligament sprain and total injured athlete groups compared to their respective non-injured groups (P < 0.02).
Conclusion
This study is the first to identify associations between MMP3 rs679620 and COL5A1 rs12722 and soft-tissue injury history in elite male rugby athletes. These findings support the growing evidence that soft-tissue injury could be influenced by an athlete’s genetic predisposition
Property Flood Resilience (PFR): Exploring the experiences of commercial property owners
No full textIn response to more severe and frequent flooding, the latest Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management Strategy in the UK aims to mainstream resilience. This has encompassed a recognition of the need to improve the resilience of individual properties, through what has become known as Property Flood Resilience (PFR). However, the application and implementation of PFR has focused on residential properties and there has been a dearth of research on its application to commercial property. This research explored the views and experiences of flood affected commercial property owners towards the practice of PFR to identify the barriers and develop improved implementation strategies. The research adopted an exploratory approach using six commercial properties as case studies, examined through site visits, interviews and documentary evidence. The findings revealed that while PFR measures had thus far been sparsely implemented, there was a clear prevalence towards low-cost interventions, designed to meet particular characteristics of the property and business activities. Generally, these measures had brought about positive outcomes in reducing the impact of flooding and speeding up the recovery process. The cost of such measures was found to be a major barrier, and generally businesses were found to be lacking in-depth understanding and knowledge to inform the development of a more strategic approach to managing these risks. Further support and guidance is clearly needed for businesses and more concerted effort is needed towards raising PFR awareness. This research provides robust evidence for commercial property owners and other stakeholders to facilitate improved decision making in the design and implementation of PFR measures