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Advancing Urdu named entity recognition: deep learning for aspect targeting
No full textThis study unveils the Named Entity Recognition (NER) system specifically designed for Urdu news headlines, aimed at bridging crucial linguistic resource gaps. We meticulously developed a comprehensive corpus from diverse news sources, specifically tailored to reflect Urdu’s unique orthographic and morphological characteristics. Our approach incorporates state-of-the-art (SOTA) neural technologies including transformers for deep contextual embeddings, Graph Convolutional Networks (GCN) for detailed syntactic analysis, and Biaffine Attention mechanisms to enhance inter-token relationships. A Conditional Random Field (CRF) layer further ensures accurate and consistent entity labeling, improving the system’s precision. Initially, our model was rigorously benchmarked using established transformer models such as XLM-R, mBERT, and XLNet to set initial performance benchmarks. Subsequent enhancements involved integrating encoder functionalities from generative models like mBART and mT5, allowing a thorough comparative evaluation of these advanced encoders against our benchmarks. This phase aimed to assess their potential in effectively detecting implicit entities, thus enhancing our model’s functionality for complex searches and automated content categorization on Urdu digital platforms. Our improvements notably contribute to computational linguistics by extending SOTA language technologies to under-resourced languages and promoting greater inclusivity in Natural Language Processing (NLP)
The Nature of Stalking: Perceptions, Experiences and Effects among 16-24-year-olds in England and Wales
No full textIn the UK, 1 in 5 women will be stalked during their lifetime in comparison to 1 in 10 men (NIDAS, 2023; Suzy Lamplugh Trust, 2021). Despite this, stalking among young people specifically 16-24-year-olds is an under-researched area within gender-based violence (Mellins et al, 2023). The lack of knowledge of stalking within Generation Z is concerning as young people are being treated the same as adult victims meaning that the unique challenges that young people face are not considered. As a result, individuals are left feeling unsupported, not believed, and not taken seriously which has major implications for victims’ wellbeing in terms of their physical and mental health (Suzy Lamplugh Trust, 2023). Research has been conducted with organisations such as the Suzy Lamplugh Trust, however, this appears to be the first research conducted that examines stalking among young people in England and Wales that does not rely on student populations, considers multiple victim-perpetrator dyads, and explores the long-term effects of stalking.
This thesis draws on data from 307 young people aged 16-24-years-old who participated in a quantitative survey accessed via social media platforms including Facebook, X (formerly known as Twitter), Instagram and TikTok. Survey data was analysed using descriptive statistics and various statistical tests such as chi-squared tests via the use of SPSS. In addition, data from twelve follow-up semi-structured interviews were also conducted which examined young victim’s experiences of stalking and were analysed using an Ethnographic Content Analysis. From a Feminist and Ultra-Realist standpoint, this research aimed to explore perceptions and experiences of stalking of individuals within Generation Z which considers the extent to which young people’s experiences are unique to adults.
Findings indicate that younger participants within the sample were more accepting of stalking myths than older participants and traditional stalking behaviours were more likely to be recognised and cause concern among individuals within Generation Z. Overall, young people find it difficult to identify stalking and disclose stalking experiences which often contributes to adverse mental health and self-blame. Young people are left feeling dismissed, not taken seriously and at risk of further harm. Findings provide evidence that 16-24-year-olds need increased education on stalking awareness to help young people identify stalking before the escalation of these behaviours occur. Whilst it is recognised that voluntary organisations are raising awareness in educational institutions, these organisations need additional support from the government. The recommendation is made that stalking awareness should be made mandatory and included in the National Curriculum”. Increased education among this age group will help to reduce the long-term impact of stalking in terms of alleviating self-blame which is often internalised by young women leading to a justification of the perpetrator’s actions. It is evident that more research is needed especially as stalking among young people is increasing due to technological advancements and the misunderstandings that exist in society and this research is hoped to enact change and bring the experiences of young victims to the forefront
A Mixed-Methods Evaluation of a Post-COVID-Condition Rehabilitation and Recovery Intervention Delivered in a Football Club Community Trust
No full textAim: Post-COVID condition (PCC) is largely considered the biggest public health emergency in recent times. The role of exercise therapy in PCC is currently unknown, and evaluative studies are currently lacking in this area. This study therefore aimed to evaluate the effects of a football club community trust exercise rehabilitation programme on physical function and quality of life in individuals with PCC. Method: A mixed-methods retrospective design was employed, utilising a framework to assess the programme’s reach, effectiveness, adoption, implementation, and maintenance (RE-AIM). Quantitative data (questionnaires and physiological assessments) were collected at baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks during the programme, and at 6 months post-intervention (n = 7). Qualitative data were gathered through semi-structured focus groups at week 12 (n = 7) and 12 months (n = 5) post-intervention. Quantitative data and qualitative data were analysed using repeated measures ANOVAs and thematic analysis, respectively. Results: The programme led to significant improvements in physical function, including increased six-minute walking distance (6MWT, p < 0.001), one-minute sit-to-stand repetitions (1MSST, p < 0.035), and lung function (spirometry; MIP: p = 0.048, MEP: p = 0.024). Participants also reported enhanced QoL (HRQoL-14, p = 0.004), reduced anxiety (GAD-7, p = 0.008) and depression (PHQ-9, p = 0.008), and increased confidence and self-efficacy. The programme was well-received, with participants valuing the supportive environment and personalised approach. Conclusions: Football community trust exercise rehabilitation programmes can effectively improve physical function and quality of life in individuals with PCC, offering a promising model for community-based rehabilitation. Further studies are needed with larger sample sizes to assess the scalability of similar programmes
Green intellectual capital: the Holy Grail? A review and research agenda
No full textPurpose
Green intellectual capital (GIC) has evolved from an emerging topic into a growing research domain. This study synthesizes the various dimensions of GIC to provide a comprehensive understanding of its role in business sustainability, environmental performance and competitive advantage, while also presenting a valuable research agenda for future studies.
Design/methodology/approach
This study applies bibliometric and content analysis to 672 articles retrieved from Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar and ProQuest, published between 2008 and 2024. The content analysis serves as the core analytical approach, enabling the identification of key research themes and the development of meaningful directions for future research in the current study.
Findings
The study identifies three distinct clusters with associated sub-themes: (1) GIC as a driver of business sustainability, environmental performance and competitive advantage; (2) GIC and strategic orientation and (3) GIC, green human resource management (GHRM), social orientation and green entrepreneurial orientation. The findings suggest that GIC research is becoming increasingly multidisciplinary, drawing on environmental consciousness, technological advancements, sustainability accounting, innovation and regulatory frameworks.
Practical implications
The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of GIC, particularly for practitioners across various industries. The study highlights the critical role of GIC in enhancing environmental performance and achieving a competitive advantage. It also provides practical insights for scholars, managers, practitioners and regulators, offering guidance on how to effectively implement GIC within organizational practices.
Originality/value
This study is a structured and analytical assessment of the literature on GIC, providing an overarching analysis of its key dimensions, thematic developments and knowledge progression. By highlighting key theoretical, methodological and empirical gaps alongside emerging trends, the study offers fresh insights and sets a clear agenda for future research in this growing research area
The Lived Experience of Mature Undergraduate Nursing Students with Quasi-Dyslexia: Navigating Ongoing Academic Challenges
No full textThis study centres on the importance of revisiting institutional practices by exploring the lived experience of mature quasi-dyslexic undergraduate nursing students within a post-1992 university in the West Midlands. Persistent academic challenges prompted their actions to undergo screening and/or diagnostic assessment for dyslexia to explain their poor academic performance. However, the outcome concluded that they did not have dyslexia. Subsequently, they are considered quasi-dyslexic and would not be eligible for reasonable adjustments through Disabled Student Allowance (DSA), which includes tailored support to meet their diverse needs.
Five female participants, regarded as mature students due to a break in their learning and an increased probability of a ‘non-traditional’ educational background, engaged in phenomenological semi-structured interviews. Their perspective contributes enlightenment to their thoughts and feelings through deep, reflective conversations. The study uses psychological theories and social theorists, such as Bourdieu’s (1977) theory of practice to explore factors that influence their self-perception. An interpretative phenomenological approach critically examines and comprehends the nuanced and complex subjective lived experience.
This study uses feminist standpoint theory as a framework for understanding and analysing the experiences of the participants, by critically examining the institutional structures that sustain inequalities and marginalisation. The findings reveal three main themes: A Sense of Uncertainty, The Academically Struggling Student, and A Sense of Inadequacy. These themes emphasise how institutional structures and powerful narratives, such as the archetypal student in university, shape self-perception and influence the educational journey. Consequently, the findings reveal a significant need for universities to adjust the responsibility from students to the educational institutions by demanding a universal recontextualisation of pedagogical approaches. Furthermore, educators need to facilitate the development of metacognitive study skills and strategies for mature quasi-dyslexic learners and learners from ‘non-traditional’ educational backgrounds. Transforming these established ways will empower mature, quasi-dyslexic students to assert their identities as students within the university
(Re)conceptualising an integrated music education ecosystem in England
No full textConceptualising music education in England as an ecosystem was central to the 2022 National Plan for Music Education. Provision spans in-school and out-of-school settings, delivered by schools, Music Hubs, charities and specialist providers. Local specificities and a complex patchwork of providers mean that there are multiple different stakeholders in helping young people to develop musically. Drawing on a decade of research, this paper reconceptualises the ecosystem by centring the young person. The proposed model is intentionally open to critique to stimulate discussion and refinement within England and in international contexts with similarly complex, multi-provider music education systems worldwide
Thermal performance analysis of a low-cost and eco-friendly rotary desiccant wheel dehumidification system with recycled materials
No full textConventional rotary desiccant wheel dehumidification systems often present challenges regarding practicality, cost, size, and usability. This study experimentally investigates the performance of a novel, low-cost (∼$100) dehumidification system featuring a 2 cm thick silica gel desiccant wheel. The system's optimal operating conditions are determined under various regeneration temperatures (40 °C, 50 °C, and 60 °C) and fan speeds (2 m/s and 4 m/s), establishing baseline parameters for traditional rotary desiccant systems. Experimental results demonstrated a maximum dehumidification coefficient of performance of 0.312 at 50 °C regeneration temperature and 2 m/s fan speed, decreasing to 0.254 at 60 °C and 4 m/s. Moisture removal and release rates were quantified across various operating conditions. At a regeneration temperature of 60 °C, moisture removal/release rates were 4.55/1.16 g/kg(d.a.) and 3.97/0.42 g/kg(d.a.) for fan speeds of 2 m/s and 4 m/s, respectively. Corresponding values at 50 °C were 3.48/0.54 g/kg(d.a.) and 2.77/0.28 g/kg(d.a.). Finally, at 40 °C, these rates were 1.53/0.09 g/kg(d.a.) and 0.59/0.05 g/kg(d.a.) for 2 m/s and 4 m/s, respectively. These results indicate optimal operating conditions of 50 °C at 2 m/s and 60 °C at 4 m/s fan speed. Recognising that optimal conditions may vary with ambient humidity, this study provides valuable insights into the relationship between moisture removal and DCOP for each tested scenario. This innovative, cost-effective system demonstrates promising results for rotary desiccant dehumidification and offers the potential for integration with traditional air conditioning systems to enhance energy efficiency
Hear/Here, Gathering the Commonplace: Towards a New Understanding of Affect and Embodied Encounter through Constructing Non-narrative Sound Installation
No full textThis practice research PhD employs concerns of affect theory, sound/fine art, aural ecologies and emergent praxis, while utilising an embodied crip/neurodivergent approach. Investigating sound and affect through the lens of Masumi’s description of ‘microperceptions’ (from Leibnitz) and linking this to the multifacetedness of aural ecologies. Working with/through gathered materials, exploring initially ‘microperceptions’ as triggers of non-conscious affective response, and through the praxis adding other elements that inform the making of original artworks as sites of affective encounter.
This is a constantly developing, heuristic following, through tests and experimentation for the unfolding of a unique approach to research and creation of fine art works that explore and explicate my/our non-conscious affective response to our quotidian sonic environment. Drawing on Deleuze and Guattari’s Smooth and Striated symbiotic spaces, to create a scaffolding for working with; affecting slippery stuff, this ‘bodymind’, and to maintain the affecting qualities of the materials.
The praxis centres on gathered sounds and images from spaces/situations, where these are less important than the small things that might be occurring within them. The sites/titles of gathering: Early Tests & Experiments, The Cairngorms, Dyffryn, About, Coventry, The Dyffryn Book and Gathering Closer. From these audio-visual works have been constructed and exhibited investigating affect and embodied encounter.
This submission, recognising and exploring the porosity/permeability of sounds/spaces/time/bodies/affects, is a drawing together of materials gathered across the research and considering new knowledge/approaches in an exhibition and Research Catalogue expositions as sites for the thesis, which sets the practice in its research context
IGeLU 2025 Siena Reflections and Insights for UKI Resource Sharing
No full textThis presentation reflects on key insights from IGeLU 2025 in Siena, examining how RapidILL, Rapido, Alma, and related systems operate as a connected global ecosystem. Drawing on volunteer experience, community discussions, Clarivate updates, and cross-regional collaboration, it highlights developments in performance management, privacy, analytics, interoperability, and practitioner-driven enhancement. The talk concludes with practical takeaways for UKI libraries navigating resource-sharing infrastructure
