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On the dynamics of intersectional (in)visibility: Women early career researchers negotiating authenticity at work
Get PDFHow do women negotiate and express authenticity in professional contexts where their presence and identities are largely rendered (in)visible? We draw on intersectional invisibility as our conceptual lens to explore how women early career researchers subjectively negotiate authenticity given prevailing conditions of visibility, invisibility and hypervisibility at work. Based on semi-structured interviews with recipients of the Organisation for Women in Science from Developing Countries (OWSD)-Elsevier award, we illuminate how (in)visible conditions shape the subjective negotiation of authenticity, informing the agentic capacity of women researchers to express themselves authentically in professional settings. Our findings reveal the negotiation of authenticity is closely tied to gender performance in a manner that aligns with perceived professionalism. This entails compartmentalising personal values when feeling invisible, experiencing a heightened awareness of context-specific boundaries when visibility increases and enacting adaptive agency when hypervisible. We thus posit authenticity as a continuous process of ongoing identity construction and negotiation rather than a static ideal
Anterior talofibular ligament laxity restricts deep deltoid ligament strain in a cadaveric model of acquired planus 'The deep deltoid paradoxical intact sign'
Get PDFBackground: The Deep Deltoid Ligament (DDL) laxity development and subsequent rupture can occur in pes planus. Anteromedial drawer tests reveal reduced anteromedial anteroposterior (AP) ankle laxity with concurrent anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) laxity. The paradoxical protection conferred by ATFL laxity to the DDL in progressive collapsing foot deformity (PCFD) warrants further investigation. Aims: Investigate the effect of ATFL laxity on DDL laxity development in an experimental flat-foot model. Methods: 18 cadaveric feet were assigned to three experimental protocols: (1) control, (2) induced flat-foot, and (3) induced flat-foot with ATFL sectioned. The flat-foot model was induced by sectioning the plantar fascia, spring ligament (SL), and the plantar first tarsometatarsal ligament. Sectioning the SL due to the interconnectedness would result in defunctioning of the superficial deltoid. Positional markers were placed on the medial malleolus, fibula, and talus. Jig-mounted feet underwent 2000 loading cycles. Every 200 cycles, images were taken before and after antero-posterior force application and the markers used to determine anteromedial and anterolateral AP separation, modelled as a linear function of cycle number. Findings: In ATFL-intact flat feet, antero-posterior force-induced anteromedial separation and thus DDL laxity increased by 3.45 ± 0.34 mm per 1000 cycles (mean ± SD), whereas in ATFL-sectioned and control feet, this was 0.64 ± 0.59 and 0.59 ± 0.32 mm per 1000 cycles respectively. Minimal cycle-induced change occurred in anterolateral separation in the three conditions. ATFL-sectioned feet had greater antero-posterior force-induced anterolateral separation (9.33 ± 1.42 mm) before cyclic loading than control (1.85 ± 0.85 mm) and ATFL-intact flat feet (1.85 ± 0.31 mm). Interpretation: Sectioning ATFL in experimentally induced flat feet paradoxically reduces anteromedial separation/DDL laxity
Hybrid copper–silver nanoparticle inks and their performance under thermal and photonic sintering
Get PDFSilver (Ag) remains the dominant conductor for two-dimensional (2D) printed electronics applications. Whilst copper (Cu) is significantly cheaper and has comparable conductivity, it has found limited use to date due to its tendency to rapidly oxidise, which is detrimental to the electrical performance of printed features. Whilst oxidation may be avoided through ultra-fast photonic sintering, the need here for new and high capital expenditure slows down any transition from silver to copper. In this work, we investigate the addition of small amounts of Ag to Cu nanoparticle (NP) inks via a one-step continuous hydro/solvothermal process, with the aim of mitigating the effects of Cu oxidation under thermal sintering for the additive manufacture of functional Cu components. An in situ scanning electron microscopy (SEM) technique was used to visualise thermal sintering and the associated mass transport phenomena for Cu and Ag nanoparticles separately, in order to better understand the sintering behaviour of Cu–Ag composite films. The electrical performance of these thermally sintered hybrid films was compared with that of photonically sintered samples. In the case of intense pulsed light and laser-based techniques, sheet resistance values of ∼0.1 and ∼0.2 Ω sq−1 were obtained respectively for Cu-only samples; the Cu NPs did not oxidise and thus Ag addition was superfluous. However, following thermal sintering in air, Cu-only NP samples were found to be oxidised and non-conductive. Cu NPs with 25 wt% Ag, sintered under the same conditions, demonstrated sheet resistance values of ∼1 Ω sq−1. This improvement was attributed to Ag mobilisation and the subsequent formation of a continuous network of conductive pathways. Sheet resistance improvements were observed with as little as 3 wt%. Ag addition. This phenomenon was further investigated through theoretical simulations, in order to inform ink formulation and post-processing recommendations, to obtain the highest conductivity for the smallest Ag addition
Bilateral indirect influence in coopetition triads: A conceptual framework
Get PDFResearch on triadic coopetition largely assumes that a third party must actively intervene to influence a focal dyad's coopetitive dynamics (i.e., the simultaneous cooperative and competitive interactions between firms). This paper challenges this view by exploring a more subtle, pervasive force within these three-actor structures (i.e., coopetition triads): the influence of observing and being observed. We argue that because coopetitive dyads are embedded in networks, they remain under constant scrutiny from influential outside actors, such as existing or potential rivals, customers, or suppliers. We term this the “evaluative gaze”—a mechanism of strategic monitoring where a third party judges a dyad's stability and potential from a distance. We develop a model of bilateral indirect influence to explain how and when this process unfolds. First, the third party engages in vicarious learning, watching the dyad to scout for potential partners or signal its strategic positioning. Second, the focal dyad, aware of this gaze, engages in collective self-regulation, adjusting its behavior to manage its reputation and signal strength. By specifying the conditions under which this influence is most potent, we demonstrate triadic coopetition as a dynamic feedback loop of signaling and adaptation. Our model reveals how firms strategically manage visibility to shape reputation, attract partners, and gain competitive advantage without ever engaging in direct intervention
The freshwater mussels (Bivalvia: Unionida) of Java: first island-wide assessment reveals new species, endemism, and urgent conservation needs
No full textThe freshwater mussel (Bivalvia: Unionida) fauna of Java has never been examined comprehensively in a modern context, leading to a lack of a species inventory and knowledge on current species distributions and how these have been impacted by human activities over the past 70 years. In 2022/23, we surveyed 66 sites across 18 river basins of Java, and one site near the Rectidens sumatrensis type locality in Sumatra. Species were delineated and identified through an integrated morphological–molecular approach using COI-based phylogenetic and haplotype analyses. We found and sequenced 76 populations (= species-site occurrences) across 42 sites and 16 river basins, comprising eight native and one non-native species. Whilst confirming the presence of Lens contradens, Physunio superbus, Pilsbryoconcha exilis, Pseudodon vondembuschianus stat. rev., Rectidens orientalis comb. rev., and Sinanodonta pacifica (non-native), we provide the first records of Lens lugens, Pilsbryoconcha linguaeformis, and Pseudodon cokelatus sp. nov. Rectidens sumatrensis is absent from Java. Comparing our data to historical records indicates considerable population losses of most native species driven by the steep increase in urbanization, industrialization, mining, and other human activities. Conservation actions are urgently needed, particularly in the species-rich Bengawan Solo and Brantas River basins
Responsible Generative AI for SMEs in UK and Africa (RAISE): A Health AI Case Study
Get PDFThis report presents a series of case studies developed under the Responsible Generative AI for SMEs in the UK and Africa (RAISE) project, examining how small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) understand, adopt, and operationalise generative AI in practice. Drawing on in-depth qualitative engagement with participating organisations across diverse sectors, the case studies explore anticipated benefits, technical and organisational challenges, and the ethical, legal, and social considerations shaping AI integration. The RAISE case studies demonstrate how responsible AI principles are interpreted pragmatically by SMEs and illustrate the value of context-sensitive, actionable guidance in supporting responsible adoption. Collectively, the cases provide empirical insight into the realities of generative AI use in resource-constrained environments and inform the development of practical frameworks for responsible AI implementation in SMEs
An aphid-resistant wheat variety reduces the transmission of barley yellow dwarf virus (BYDV) by Rhopalosiphum padi (L.)
Get PDFINTRODUCTIONRhopalosiphum padi (L.) is a major vector of barley yellow dwarf virus (BYDV), one of the most economically damaging viral diseases of cereals, including wheat. Although host resistance to BYDV or to aphids individually has been exploited, less is known about how aphid resistance performs against viruliferous vectors. We recently identified a winter genotype (G1) exhibiting strong aphid resistance through antixenosis and antibiosis. Here, we test whether this resistance remains effective against BYDV-vectoring aphids and how it compares with BYDV resistance.RESULTSWe evaluated G1 alongside four wheat cultivars with contrasting aphid and BYDV resistance traits, including the BYDV-resistant cultivar RGT Wolverine and the fully susceptible RGT Illustrious. Seedling settlement assays showed that antixenosis in G1 remained effective against R. padi carrying BYDV-PAV. Electrical penetration graph recordings revealed restricted phloem access and reduced salivation of viruliferous aphids on G1, consistent with lower virus transmission efficiency. Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction showed a threefold reduction in BYDV gene expression in inoculated leaves of G1 compared with RGT Wolverine and RGT Illustrious. By contrast, RGT Wolverine exhibited high initial transmission but reduced systemic infection, consistent with resistance acting on suppression of viral replication and/or movement. Aphid rearing host genotype altered subsequent aphid host-selection behaviour, indicating vector conditioning with consequences for virus spread.CONCLUSIONAphid resistance in G1 significantly reduced BYDV transmission, whereas Bdv2-mediated resistance in RGT Wolverine limited systemic infection. These complementary resistance mechanisms highlight the value of combining aphid- and virus-targeted traits to improve durable BYDV management in wheat. © 2026 Society of Chemical Industry
Associations of Creatinine Muscle Index with Markers of Sarcopenia and Mortality in Chronic Kidney Disease: A Prospective Cohort Study
No full textBackgroundSarcopenia is common in CKD and linked to higher mortality, but identifying those at risk remains challenging. Indices combining serum creatinine and cystatin C (eGFRratio and eGFRdifference) have been studied, but have tended to perform worse in those with CKD. This study aimed to examine the relationship of creatinine muscle index (CMI), an estimate of glomerular filtration of creatinine, with sarcopenia and mortality in a non-dialysis CKD population.Methods and Findings NURTuRE-CKD is a prospective, multicentre cohort study of people with non-dialysis CKD in the U.K. 2996 individuals were enrolled between July 2017 and September 2019. Cystatin C measurements were available in 2,930 adults. CMI (mg/day) was calculated as eGFR cystatin C × serum creatinine concentration. The relationships between CMI and: 1) probable sarcopenia (defined as the best hand grip strength of <27 kg for males and <16 kg for females); 2) individual muscle function measures including hand grip strength (kg) and timed get-up-and-go (TUG) (seconds); 3) all-cause mortality were assessed using Spearman’s correlation, logistic regression, and Cox proportional hazards models, stratified by sex and adjusted for age, ethnicity, body mass index, smoking status, Charlson Comorbidity Index, urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio, and C-reactive protein. TUG test is the time taken to stand from a chair, walk 3 m, turn, return, and sit down. Among 1,723 males and 1,207 females, the median (IQR) age was 66 (53–74) years, and the median eGFRcreatinine was 34 (24–47) ml/min/1.73m². A total of 806 participants (27.5%) had probable sarcopenia, and over a median follow-up period of 50 (41 to 56) months, 527 (18%) died. The adjusted OR for probable sarcopenia per 100 mg/day increase in CMI, was OR 0.72 (95% CI 0.67, 0.78 p value <0.001) in males and OR 0.81 (95% CI 0.73, 0.89 p value < 0.001) in females. CMI correlated positively with grip strength (ρ = 0.47 [0.43, 0.50] and 0.45 [0.40, 0.49]) and negatively with TUG (ρ = –0.37 [-0.41, -0.32] and –0.44 [-0.49, -0.40]) in males and females, respectively. In adjusted models, the HR for mortality per 100 mg/day increase in CMI was HR 0.85 (95% CI 0.78, 0.90 p value < 0.001) in males and HR 0.77 (95% CI 0.67, 0.87 p value < 0.001) in females. In males and females, respectively, the C-index of CMI for probable sarcopenia (0.73 and 0.71) and mortality (0.70 and 0.76) was higher than that of the eGFR ratio (probable sarcopenia: 0.64 and 0.61; mortality: 0.60 and 0.65; all p < 0.001) and the eGFR difference (probable sarcopenia: 0.59 and 0.57; mortality: 0.56 and 0.59; all p < 0.001) Limitations include the observational design, the assessment of muscle function without direct measurement of muscle mass, and limited generalisability to CKD populations not followed in secondary care.ConclusionsIn persons with CKD, CMI—a biomarker reflecting creatinine generation—was independently associated with muscle function and mortality, supporting its utility in populations with reduced kidney function
Stress Hyperglycemia Ratio and Adverse Outcomes in Acute Mild Ischemic Stroke or High-Risk Transient Ischemic Attack: A Secondary Analysis of the INSPIRES Trial
No full textBACKGROUND: – Evidence on the association between the stress hyperglycemia ratio (SHR) and adverse outcomes in patients with mild ischemic stroke (IS) or high-risk transient ischemic attack remains limited. METHODS: – This was a secondary analysis of the INSPIRES (Intensive Statin and Antiplatelet Therapy for Acute High-Risk Intracranial or Extracranial Atherosclerosis) randomized clinical trial. SHR was calculated as admission blood glucose (mmol/L) divided by (1.59* HbA1c [%]−2.59). Multivariable Cox regression models were used to assess the association between SHR and adverse clinical outcomes, adjusting for age, sex, and other potential factors. The primary efficacy outcome was any stroke (ischemic or hemorrhagic) within 90 days. Secondary efficacy outcomes comprised composite vascular events, recurrent IS, poor functional outcome, and early neurological deterioration. The primary safety outcome was moderate-to-severe bleeding within 90 days. RESULTS: – The INSPIRES trial, ultimately enrolled 6100 patients with mild IS or high-risk transient ischemic attack caused by intracranial or extracranial atherosclerosis, of whom 4515 were included in this secondary analysis. The median age was 65 years (interquartile range, 57–71), and 2894 (64.10%) were male. During the 90-day follow-up, recurrent stroke occurred in 356 patients (7.88%), composite vascular events in 363 (8.04%), recurrent IS in 340 (7.53%), poor functional outcome in 474 (10.51%), and early neurological deterioration in 196 (4.34%). After adjustment for conventional confounders, compared with patients in the lower SHR group (Q1), those with higher SHR levels (Q4) had significantly increased risks of recurrent stroke (hazard ratio [HR], 1.84 [95% CI, 1.30–2.61]), composite vascular events (HR, 1.72 [95% CI, 1.22–2.41]), recurrent IS (HR, 1.79 [95% CI, 1.25–2.55]), poor functional outcome (HR, 1.56 [95% CI, 1.13–2.15]), and early neurological deterioration (HR, 1.62 [95% CI, 1.00–2.61]). In contrast, SHR was not significantly associated with any safety outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: – Among patients with acute mild IS or high-risk transient ischemic attack of presumed atherosclerotic cause, elevated SHR levels were independently associated with increased risks of recurrent stroke, composite vascular events, recurrent IS, poor functional outcome, and early neurological deterioration
A Sound Education: A Qualitative Study of the Role of Podcasts in Postgraduate Medical Education
Get PDFIntroduction: The rise of smart technology has driven increased use of podcasts in medical education due to their accessibility, flexibility, and capacity for rapid dissemination of current information. Existing literature, predominantly North American and undergraduate-focused, is insufficient to understand podcast use and integration into UK postgraduate medical education. Materials and Methods: Ten Internal Medicine Trainees from the East Midlands region were interviewed online using semi-structured interviews. Recordings were transcribed and analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Ethical approval was obtained. Results: Four themes emerged: Self-directed Learning, Time Efficiency, Relaxed Learning Environment and Access to Experts. Podcasts have been used informally to address self-identified knowledge gaps and personalise study schedules. Trainees valued concise, high-yield content and the ability to learn while multitasking with other activities such as commuting or cleaning, which was seen as productive. Podcasts user-friendly, enjoyable format created a relaxed learning environment. Additionally, podcasts offered valuable access to expert speakers, modelling clinical reasoning skills, and fostering connections with senior doctors. Discussion: Trainees actively use podcasts as informal learning tools to supplement their education. The flexibility and enjoyment offered by podcasts support self-directed, continuous learning. Despite regular use, and evidence of their integration internationally, they remain absent from the regional speciality school curriculum. This highlights a missed opportunity for formal recognition, integration and guidance. Conclusions: Podcasts are a valued but under-recognised educational resource amongst postgraduate trainees. There is demand for their formal inclusion in Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and for educator-endorsed recommendations tailored to training stages
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