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Co-Creation in a School Setting: Developing an adapted model of pluralistic counselling with boys with Specific Learning Difficulties (SpLD)
No full textThis conference paper outlined the research process and practice of conducting primary research within a school-setting. It explored both the methodological challenges and benefits of case series work with children/young people within schools, whilst also examining the ethical challenges to conducting therapeutic research with boys with SpLD. The research paper positioned the participants (Boys aged between 11-16 years) as active participators within the research/therapeutic work. The research also aimed to develop a transdisciplinary model- pluralistic across profession
Analysis of the BOLD signal along colour-opponent pathways in LGN and V1 and microstructural alterations of the optic radiation in POAG and OHT patients
Get PDFPurpose Primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) is associated with retinal ganglion cell loss and atrophies in the lateral geniculate nucleus (LGN) and visual cortex (V1). The causes and pathogenesis of glaucoma are unclear; with increased risk of progression to glaucoma in patients with ocular hypertension (OHT). To investigate this further the current study applied Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) in a matched sample of POAG and OHT patients. Method We recruited 53 patients (POAG n = 32; OHT n = 21) and applied functional-MRI (fMRI) to a sub-group of POAG (n = 9) and OHT (n = 9) patients to test differences in LGN and Primary Visual Cortex (V1) BOLD response to differential chromatic modulations. Tract Based Spatial Statistics (TBSS) was applied to Diffusion weighted images (DWI) to compare fractional anisotropy (FA) values across the whole-brain between patient groups. Probabilistic tractography along the optic radiation (OR) tested for differences in microstructural alterations associated with POAG compared to OHT patients. Behavioural deficits associated with POAG on LGN activity was also investigated. Results Findings showed behavioural deficits in POAG in the three major cardinal directions (magno- parvo- and koniocellular pathways), reflecting deficits in post-receptoral processing. Strong correlations were observed between LGN and V1 activity in OHT which was significantly reduced in POAG. Activity in LGN is increased in POAG, whereas V1 activity is slightly lower in POAG compared to OHT. DWI showed significantly reduced FA in sagittal striatum and associated visual WM pathways, primarily of the left hemisphere. Reduced FA along the OR was observed in POAG compared to OHT patients with results indicating enhanced structural asymmetries in POAG. Conclusion We present evidence novel differences in chromatic contrast sensitivity and microstructural WM between POAG and OHT patient groups. Our findings reveal evidence for asymmetry within the visual system associated with POAG, opening several avenues for further investigation
Meeting reflections: BNA2025 festival of neuroscience, Liverpool
Get PDFThis year’s British Neuroscience Association (BNA) International Festival of Neuroscience, held from 27 to 30 April 2025 at the iconic ACC Liverpool, offered a remarkable convergence of scientific enthusiasm and professional networking. With over 1000 delegates from across the world, BNA2025 was not simply a scientific meeting – it was a vibrant, living reflection of the state of neuroscience in the UK and beyond. Across 4 days, the festival integrated cutting-edge research, collaborative initiatives, career development, and wide-reaching public engagement
Three-year trends in protein intake and grip strength in older adults: an evaluation of an over 60’s exercise programme
No full textOver the next four decades, the most substantial population growth is projected to occur among individuals aged 65 and above(1). The ageing process is associated with physiological alterations that adversely affect body systems(2). Evidence supports the recommendation for higher protein intake in older adults to mitigate musculoskeletal deterioration(3). Physical activity programmes offer a valuable means of enhancing physical function in older individuals, providing a strategic setting for delivering interventions for healthy ageing(4). The aim of this investigation was to examine changes in protein intake and handgrip strength over 3 years in a population of adults attending a community exercise programme.This is a rolling study, recruiting participants from an over 60s exercise class in the North West of the UK. Dietary intake assessed using multiple 24 hour recalls and analysed using Nutritics™ software. Grip strength was assessed using a Takei-5401 digital dynamometer. Grip strength was assessed with participants seated, maintaining a 90- degree angle at the elbow and a neutral forearm position. Mean grip strength was compared to age- and sex-matched 50th centile values(5) using a Wilcoxon Signed-Rank tests. Protein intake (g/d) was compared against calculated recommended amounts based on recommended intakes of 0.75 g/kg bodyweight(6), and higher values of 1.0 g/kg(7) and 1.2 g/kg(8) bodyweight using Wilcoxon Signed-Rank tests.From a total of 60 participants, 20 individuals participated in year 1, 24 in year 2, and 28 in year 3. Mean grip strength in years 1, 2 and 3 was 19.7 ± 7.1 kg, 21.9 ± 7.6 kg, and 18.6 ± 6.2 kg, respectively, with no significant differences between years (p = 0.242). Mean grip strength in year 3 was significantly lower than the age- and sex-matched values (19.1 ± 7.0 kg vs. 25.0, p < 0.001, respectively). Mean daily protein intake in year 1, year 2 and year 3 was 64.5 ± 31.1 g, 64.9 ± 23.5 g and 63.7 ± 27.6 g, respectively with no significant difference between years (p = 0.472). There was no significant difference between current protein intake and calculated amounts using 0.75 g/kg bodyweight (63.7 ± 27.6 g/d vs. 48.2 ± 6.6 g/d, p = 0.064, respectively). Similarly, current intake did not significantly differ compared to calculated amounts using 1.0 g/kg bodyweight (63.7 ± 27.6 g/d vs. 64.3 ± 8.7, p= 0.469, respectively). Protein intake was significantly below the amount calculated based on 1.2 g/kg bodyweight (63.7 ± 27.6 g/d vs. 77.2 ± 10.5, p = 0.027, respectively).Grip strength values were significantly below average for participants age and sex, and protein intake is significantly below calculated values for older adults engaging in physical activity. Future initiatives should reinforce the importance of strength training in this group, in addition to improving protein intake
Financial Market Internationalization of and Corporate Tax Avoidance:Evidence from the Inclusion of Chinese A-Shares in the MSCI-EMI
No full textThis paper aims to contribute to the existing literature by investigating the impact of financial market internationalization, specifically the inclusion of Chinese A-shares in the MSCI Emerging Market Index (MSCI-EMI), on corporate tax avoidance behavior. The study focuses on a target population of 968 firms listed between 2014 and 2021 that are part of the Shanghai-Hong Kong and Shenzhen-Hong Kong Stock Connect programs. A propensity score matching (PSM) combined with a difference-in-differences (DID) design was employed, with 236 firms included in the MSCI-EMI as the treatment group on June 1, 2018, and the remaining 732 firms forming the control group. The analysis examines any divergence in tax avoidance behavior between these two groups resulting from the inclusion in the MSCI-EMI. The findings reveal that the inclusion of A-shares in the MSCI-EMI significantly curbs corporate tax avoidance, particularly among firms characterized by low information transparency, minimal analyst attention, limited media coverage, or high financing costs. These results remain robust after conducting parallel trend tests, placebo tests for causal inference, single-stage analysis, and endogeneity tests. The findings underscore the importance of ongoing government efforts to enhance information transparency, expand financing channels, and further promote capital market reform to effectively reduce corporate tax avoidance behavior
Between fidelity and sustainability: a mixed-methods study of the implementation and healthcare utilization outcomes of two alcohol assertive outreach treatment models
Get PDFBackgroundThere is a gap between the model of Alcohol Assertive Outreach Treatment (AAOT) and its implementation. This study compared the implementation of AAOT in a high-fidelity service and a medium-fidelity service in the North West of England, with a focus on differences in healthcare utilization change and exploring stakeholder views on the fidelity and sustainability of each service’s adaptation of AAOT.MethodsA multistage mixed-methods design involving: 1) quantitative assessment and comparison of differences in healthcare utilization and treatment data pre- and post-AAOT implementation between services; and 2) qualitative exploration of the fidelity and sustainability of each service based on semi-structured interviews (n = 48), analyzed using the Framework Approach.ResultsBoth services showed reductions in Emergency Department visits and unplanned ward admissions (p < .001). Interviewees indicated that high-fidelity AAOT was more effective for service users with complex needs who previously struggled to engage with community specialist addiction treatment services, although sustainability challenges persist, reflecting barriers in commissioning processes and continuity of care.ConclusionThe AAOT model can be successfully adapted to different local contexts and reduce unplanned healthcare utilization despite sustainability challenges
Book Review: Television Drama from Germany: Production, Storytelling and “Quality”
No full textBased on: Krauß Florian, Television Drama from Germany: Production, Storytelling and “Quality”, Cham: Palgrave Macmillan, 298pp., ISBN 978-3-031-60621-2, £44.99 (hbk), ISBN 978-3-031-60624-3 £34.99 (pbk), ISBN 978-3-031-60622-9 open access (ebk)
Contrasting genetic structure, mode of reproduction and clonal characteristics in established and newly colonised populations of Carex salina Wahlenb. (Cyperaceae)
Get PDFBackgroundThe recent colonisation of Carex salina in Scotland presents an opportunity to compare population genetic structure with long-established Norwegian populations. The closely related long-established Scottish C. recta allowed removal of the potentially confounding effects of latitude.AimsTo compare genetic diversity, balance between clonal and sexual reproduction, clonal architecture in new and long-established populations of C. salina and C. recta, respectively.MethodsSimple sequence repeat markers were used to quantify genetic parameters within all extant populations of C. recta and C. salina in Scotland and in C. salina sampled across its latitudinal range in Norway.ResultsScottish and Norwegian populations of C. salina, and Scottish C. recta showed similar levels of expected heterozygosity. Almost all populations showed heterozygote excess. Clonality was lowest in Scottish C. salina. The few Scottish C. salina clones were large with very little overlap. By comparison, Norwegian C. salina and Scottish C. recta had smaller, overlapping clones.ConclusionScottish saltmarshes have been colonised by C. salina on multiple occasions with insufficient time for extensive clonal growth to occur. It will be instructive to undertake future examination of the genetic structure of these Scottish populations to assess how they change over time
Anti-Corruption Strategies in Conflict Settings: Ukraine's Martial Law Experience in Pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals
Get PDFThis article analyzes Ukraine's anti-corruption reforms under martial law, focusing on the tension between emergency governance and sustainable development. Using legal, institutional, and policy approaches, it examines how conflict both constrains and stimulates reform. Despite weakened oversight and scarce resources, Ukraine has maintained momentum using digital tools, resilient institutions such as National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and National Agency for Prevention of Corruption, and international assistance. Findings show corruption is a systemic pre-war problem, intensified under martial law, especially in defence procurement and humanitarian aid. Three elements underpin progress: institutional resilience, civil society engagement, and coordinated global support. Recommendations include finalizing leadership in NABU and ARMA, monitoring oligarchic assets, and establishing a civil society-led corruption hotline in humanitarian sectors. Ukraine's case demonstrates that advancing Sustainable Development Goal 16 is possible during conflict when reforms rest on robust institutions and international partnerships, offering lessons for other states seeking to safeguard integrity and justice under crisis conditions