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IMAP’s Role in Understanding Particle Injection and Energization Throughout the Heliosphere
No full textThe payload of the Interstellar Mapping and Acceleration Probe (IMAP) includes sophisticated in situ instruments to measure solar wind plasma and magnetic fields, suprathermal and energetic particles at 1 au as well as unprecedented remote sensing instruments to observe the energetic neutral atoms (ENAs) in the outer heliosphere and the ultraviolet glow of the interstellar neutral H interacting with the three-dimensional solar wind. This unique combination of sensors on a single platform allows connections to be made between the inner and outer heliosphere to an extent never before possible. This article focuses on the scientific theme of connecting the physics of particle acceleration and transport throughout the heliosphere. Such studies enabled by IMAP are organized into three broad categories: i) fundamental particle acceleration and transport processes, ii) heliospheric variability that affects those processes, and iii) inner heliospheric science
The effectiveness of a motivational interviewing-based intervention for reducing depressive symptoms after stroke compared to an attention control and usual care: study protocol for a multi-centre randomised controlled trial (COMMITS)
No full textBackground: Depression affects almost 60% of stroke survivors, impacting on recovery and quality-of-life. Depression may be treated with medication or talk-based therapies. One randomised controlled trial showed a talk-based therapy called Motivational Interviewing-Based Intervention (MIBI) delivered early after stroke reduced depressive symptoms at 3 and 12 months post-stroke compared with receiving usual care alone. However, it was unclear if the benefit was due to the specific MIBI components or simply the additional attention received. This trial aims to determine the effect of MIBI plus usual care on reducing depressive symptoms post-stroke, relative to usual care (UC), and to an attention control (AC) (social attention without therapeutic content i.e. general conversation).
Methods: Patients admitted following acute stroke meeting the study eligibility criteria (not currently receiving talk-based therapy and not currently having severe depression) will be recruited across 18 UK hospitals within 28 days of stroke. 1287 participants will be randomised on a 1:1:1 ratio into three groups: MIBI+UC; AC+UC; UC. Participants in MIBI+UC and AC+UC will additionally have remote (telephone/online) sessions with MIBI Therapists or AC Providers respectively, for four 45-minute weekly sessions, beginning within 6 weeks of randomisation. Participant self-report measures of depression (primary outcome: Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) at 3 months) and quality-of-life will be collected at baseline, 6-weeks and 3-months post-randomisation. The proposed mechanism of effect, via participants’ self-efficacy and confidence, and the impact of MIBI dose and/or therapeutic alliance on outcome will also be explored. If benefit of MIBI+UC over UC is demonstrated, mixed effects regression will be fitted to outcome data from all three arms, and appropriate parametrisation with MIBI+UC as the reference group. A mixed-methods process evaluation comprising quantitative assessment of intervention adherence and fidelity, and semi-structured interviews with a purposive sample of study participants (n~18) and MIBI/AC staff (n~15) will explore participation, acceptability, and considerations for implementation. An economic evaluation will explore cost-effectiveness.
Discussion: The results will inform whether any observed improvements in mood are a natural change over time, due to attention, or a therapeutic change attributable to MIBI. If MIBI is shown to effectively reduce depressive symptoms, the process evaluation will inform implementation of the intervention into clinical care.
Trial registration: ISRCTN, ISRCTN17065351. Registered 01/02/2022, https://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN1706535
A Mixed Methods Examination of Intimate Partner Homicide-Suicide by Age Using Domestic Homicide Reviews From England and Wales
No full textThis study examines the phenomenon of intimate partner homicide-suicide (IPHS), specifically, how it differs (or not) from intimate partner homicide without suicide (IPH), and how the ages of victims and perpetrators shape the risks, vulnerabilities and contextual features of cases. A mixed methods document analysis of 232 domestic homicide reviews (DHRs) was undertaken, using bivariate analysis to compare 37 IPHS to 195 IPH-without suicide, and a gendered, thematic analysis to gain deeper, contextualized insights into IPHS structured by victim and perpetrator age. IPHS victims and perpetrators were older, and in the case of perpetrators, more likely to be white. Risks and vulnerabilities also differed, with less substance use, criminality, and violence, but greater physical and mental health difficulties. Themes of “Separation and loss,” “Dependency,” and “Mental health and suicidality” ran through the 37 IPHS, but with IPHS involving older adults appearing as phenomenologically distinct, shaped by gendered contexts of care and a loss of autonomy due to chronic, degenerative illness. Our findings highlight the key role for physical and mental health services—particularly General (Medical) Practitioners—alongside the need for comprehensive support systems and coordinated care to manage the complex interdependencies in elderly couples
Consumer Trust and Online Security in the UK Banking Sector
No full textThe expanded use of online banking has generated major worries about consumer trust and the security of their financial information. As online banking becomes more prevalent in the United Kingdom it becomes essential to ensure consumers trust the security measures of these platforms. This research examined what elements create trust and security among consumers in the UK online banking industry. The study examined critical components including perceived usefulness, navigation simplicity and security effectiveness to understand their impact on consumer trust. The study proves significant because it fills research gaps while delivering valuable insights that help financial institutions improve consumer trust through enhanced user experience and security measures. The research objectives were met through quantitative methods which involved gathering data using an online survey from 55 participants from 1st October to 30th October 2024. The survey targeted multiple aspects such as ease of navigation through the platform, the perceived usefulness of the system, user concerns about information security, and trust levels in online banking security measures. Through descriptive statistics, correlation analysis and linear regression techniques researchers analysed data to uncover how different factors affect consumer trust in online banking. The study utilized the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and Protection Motivation Theory (PMT) as guiding theoretical frameworks for analysis. Three main factors including ease of navigation, the perceived usefulness of the system, and security information concerns emerged as significant drivers of consumer trust in online banking security. Although customers trust existing security protocols they require ongoing improvements and clear communication to sustain their confidence levels. Banks can use these findings to improve online platform trust by enhancing security measures and user experience
Assessment of Rotator Cuff External Rotation: Isometric vs. Isotonic Testing Modes
No full textObjectives: To assess intra-session reliability of isometric and isotonic shoulder external rotation (ER) strength tests and to compare their outcomes. Methods: Thirty-eight healthy subjects (19 females; 19 males; 25.7 ± 6.0 years; 175 ± 9 cm; 70.3 ± 11.4 kg) completed a shoulder ER strength assessment including Prone and Standing ER Isometric tests and Seated 5 repetition maximum (RM) ER tests. Normality was checked with the Shapiro–Wilk test. Reliability was assessed using the CV and ICC (3, k, 95% CI). Linear mixed models examined sex and dominance effects. Correlations and multiple regression tested associations between tests (p < 0.05). Results: All tests performed displayed “excellent” reliability scores (CV from 1.9 to 3.1% and ICC from 0.970 to 0.994). No significant effect of dominance was observed in any strength test. Males showed significantly higher values than females in both Prone (3.8% higher, p < 0.001) and Standing (2.7% higher, p = 0.003) isometric ER strength tests. Prone and Standing isometric tests were moderately correlated (r = 0.62, 95% CI [0.46, 0.74], p < 0.001). A regression model explained 52.4% of the variance in Seated 5 RM ER strength (R2 = 0.524, p < 0.001), with Prone isometric strength emerging as a significant predictor (β = 0.612, p < 0.001). Conclusions: This study provides previously unreported 5 RM shoulder ER strength values in healthy adults, with all included tests showing excellent reliability. Isometric measures did not fully capture isotonic ER strength. Males outperformed females in isometric tests, but no gender difference was observed in Seated 5 RM strength
Tradition meets transformation: the rise of women’s football in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
No full textThis study examines the emergence and development of women’s football in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), which can be employed as a lens through which broader societal transformation under the Vision 2030 agenda may be examined. Drawing on a narrative review of policy documents, academic research, and media discourse, the study traces the transition from historical exclusion and informal participation to the establishment of formalised leagues, a national team, and dedicated governance structures. The analysis positions women’s football as both reflective and generative of social change. It demonstrates how football has been mobilised as a visible marker of reform, projecting inclusion and modernity domestically and internationally while simultaneously creating new opportunities for participation and leadership among Saudi women. The paper highlights persistent tensions, including regional inequality, uneven access, limited female authority within governance structures, and ongoing cultural and societal negotiation surrounding gender norms. This study argues that women’s football operates within a dynamic field, shaped by state policy, grassroots agency, and global sporting frameworks. Findings reiterate the significance of institutional support in enabling rapid transformation while raising questions around sustainability and structural integration
Divided Korea: Understanding Unification Narratives
No full textThis book examines how different visions of Korean unification have been formed and contested across history, politics, and culture. From Cold War propaganda to digital diplomacy, or from South Korea’s democratic reforms to North Korea’s Juche ideology, the volume illustrates how unification is regarded as both hope and threat, promise and peril. By comparing Korea with other divided societies such as Germany and Cyprus, the book shows how narratives shape diplomacy, identity, and the prospects for reconciliation
Connection to nature in nature based social prescribing: A scoping review of evidence, gaps, and policy implications
No full textNature-based social prescribing (NBSP) is gaining traction as an approach to support health and wellbeing (HWB). Yet the role of Connection to Nature (CTN) within NBSP remains poorly understood. This scoping review examined how CTN is conceptualised, measured and integrated into NBSP interventions and its impact on HWB outcomes. Following PRISMAScR guidelines, we searched four databases (APA PsycInfo, CINAHL, EMBASE and MEDLINE) for studies published between 2016 and 2025, identifying 21 eligible papers. Studies were grouped into four categories: review papers; gardening and horticulture; green care; and structured nature engagement and educational interventions. Across intervention types, CTN was consistently associated with improvements in mood, stress regulation, confidence, social connectedness, and overall wellbeing. CTN appeared malleable and responsive to meaningful or reflective nature engagement, suggesting it may function as a pathway linking nature contact to HWB. Findings indicate that intentionally incorporating CTN into NBSP design, practitioner training, and evaluation may enhance intervention impact and promote equitable access to nature based wellbeing benefits.
CTN was rarely defined consistently or measured using validated tools and was often inferred qualitatively rather than assessed directly. This variability limits understanding of CTN’s unique contribution relative to other NBSP mechanisms such as social connection, physical activity, and immersive sensory experiences. To advance the field, future research should adopt clearer CTN definitions, use conceptually aligned measures, distinguish between state and trait CTN, and employ longitudinal or mixed methods designs. Embedding CTN within NBSP policy and practice offers potential to strengthen both individual wellbeing and broader public and environmental health goals
Teaching Undergraduate Special Care Dentistry in the UK and Ireland: What? How? When? How Much? Who?
No full textIntroduction: New dental graduates are expected to have acquired the skills and behaviours to provide dental care for the population they serve. An ageing population and advances in medicine mean that there are increasing numbers of patients who may require Special Care Dentistry. Special Care Dentistry is the branch of dentistry concerned with access to equitable oral healthcare for people with disabilities and those who are disadvantaged. This study aimed to explore the teaching of Special Care Dentistry (SCD) within undergraduate (UG) dental curricula in the UK and Ireland. Materials and Methods: A cross‐sectional online survey was distributed to all SCD teaching leads within 18 universities delivering undergraduate dental curricula in the UK and Ireland. Respondents described their curriculum, teaching and assessment, as well as the barriers and facilitators they faced. Qualitative responses were collected as open‐ended text within the survey and coded independently by two authors. Results: From 12 respondents (67% response rate), the average time given to SCD during training over the whole UG programme was reportedly 47.4 h. While 83% (n = 10) reported that students observed treatment delivery for special care patients, only 50% (n = 6) reported actual student‐delivered care. Almost all (n = 10) applied the International Association of Disability and Oral Health curriculum, as recognised by the Association of Dental Education Europe (ADEE). Attitudes towards SCD from academic staff outside of the specialty were seen as the biggest barrier to SCD teaching, whereas the availability of academic staff and emphasis on SCD within the curriculum were facilitators. Discussion: The teaching of SCD in dental schools in the UK and Ireland is markedly varied, with respondents highlighting barriers to the delivery of teaching and learning in this area. Conclusions: There is a persistent need to standardise undergraduate exposure to patients requiring Special Care Dentistry across Ireland and the UK. This will equip the future dental profession to adequately and equitably care for the whole of society, regardless of ability
Work-related factors that may influence compassion fatigue and compassion satisfaction in mental health professionals
No full textBackground: Empathy is an essential therapeutic skill in mental health care, but the emotional strain of working with people who have experienced trauma has the potential to increase the risk of developing compassion fatigue. A systematic review investigated work-related factors in the development and mitigation of compassion fatigue in mental health professionals. Aim: The aim of this commentary was to critically appraise the methods used within this systematic review and expand upon the findings in the context of clinical practice. Methods: The Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist was used to critically appraise the review. Results: While many mental health professionals experience compassion satisfaction through their jobs, compassion fatigue is also common. There is a broad range of factors in the work environment that may influence compassion fatigue, including workload, co-worker and supervisor support, and relevant training. Conclusion and implications to practice: Shifting the focus from solely individual-level interventions to also intervening at the organisation level addressing upstream factors may be beneficial. However, further better-quality studies and longitudinal research are needed to confirm the importance and role of these factors