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Language development can be framed as the process of learning how to mean (Halliday, 1975). From this perspective, the role of communicative function is central to the language-learning process with development being guided by interaction with experienced others. In the current study, we present a detailed analysis of the communicative functions used in interaction with prelinguistic infants aged 10-12 months from three cultural groups living in the United Kingdom. The findings indicate that caregivers from all three groups used a wide range of communicative acts when interacting with their infants, ranging from directives to discussions of inner thoughts and feelings. In addition, we identified significant differences in the frequency with which different communicative acts were used across our three groups. The study complements the positive contributions made by pivotal studies on language socialisation by highlighting the diversity and variation of caregiver speech at the functional level.

This research explores the experiences of Beth, a university student in the UK, as she comes to be labelled as 'dyslexic', and as she has her diagnosis taken away. Through use of Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) and discourse analysis, the research seeks to understand how Beth made sense of these experiences, and to explore the discursive 'life' of dyslexia within this sense-making. The discussion in this paper proceeds chronologically through Beth's story, from 'struggle', to 'legitimation' to 'derogation', and concludes with a call to recognise the role of diagnosis in the field of special educational needs (SEN) from a social constructionist and relational perspective.

ChatGPT and generative artificial intelligence (Gen-AI) are transforming firms and supply chains. However, the empirical literature reporting the benefits, challenges, and outlook of these nascent technologies in operations and supply chain management (OSCM) is limited. This study surveys current projects and perceptions of these technologies in US (n = 119) and UK (n = 181) supply chains. We found that projects range from proof-of-concept to full implementation, with a main focus on operational gains, such as improved customer satisfaction, cost minimisation, and process efficiencies. The main challenges concern data, technological and organisational issues. Expected benefits are dominated by cost savings and enhanced customer experience, but also include increased automation and sustainability. Industries were found to cluster around six groups according to perceived benefits and implementation challenges. Our findings contribute to the emerging literature on Gen-AI use in OSCM, and to management practice by mapping the benefits, challenges, outlook, and maturity level of Gen-AI projects in supply chains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: People with an intellectual disability who commit a criminal offence can be detained, by a court, in a forensic inpatient facility. There is limited understanding of how inpatients with an intellectual disability and their nurses navigate risk in U.K. forensic services. Methods: A traditional literature review design was followed to map evidence (2000-2021) around the forensic and health and wellbeing risks faced by inpatients with an intellectual disability, nurses' perceptions of managing risk, and patient experiences of informing risk assessment and management. Papers were analysed thematically. Results: Findings suggest that restrictive measures to mitigate forensic risks (e.g., violence) can exacerbate the risk of poor health and wellbeing outcomes. There was some limited evidence of direct patient involvement in risk assessment and management. Conclusion: Further research is required to explore how forensic inpatients with an intellectual disability can have input in care planning, risk assessment and management.

Purpose: This article integrates two distinct discourses to show how an Aristotelian account of character education can supply a valuable framework for developing a habit of social action. Approach: We use a review of relevant secondary literature, a documentary analysis of #iwill materials, and an Aristotelian conceptual framework to analyse the quality principles of the #iwill campaign--a cross-sector, cross-party collective impact campaign that encourages youth social action in the UK. Findings: We show how an Aristotelian account offers useful resources for conceptualising and applying #iwill's six quality principles and addresses four practical and theoretical challenges in #iwill's model. In particular, an Aristotelian account provides a more capacious conception of a habit and offers a revised model for understanding social action's benefits to individuals and communities. Practical Implications: With over 800 partner organizations in the UK, #iwill has a significant impact on how social action is practised and supplies a valuable model for other campaigns to follow. By informing #iwill's quality framework, this Aristotelian account seeks to amplify efforts to cultivate social action as a virtuous habit for life.

Introduction: Open access to digital research output is increasing, but academic library policies can place restrictions on public access to libraries. This paper reports on a preliminary study to investigate the correlation between academic library access policies and institutional positions of openness to knowledge. Method: This primarily qualitative study used document and data analysis to examine the content of library access or use policies of twelve academic institutions in eight countries. The outcomes were statistically correlated with institutional open access publication policies and practices. Analysis: We used an automated search tool together with manual searching to retrieve Web-based library access policies, then categorised and counted the levels and conditions of public access. We compared scores for institutional library access feature with open access features and percentages of open access publications. Results: Academic library policies may suggest open public access but multi-layered user categories, privileges and fees charged can inhibit such access, with disparities in openness emerging between library policies and institutional open access policies. Conclusion: As open access publishing options and mandates expand, physical entry and access to print and electronic resources in academic libraries is contracting. This conflicts with global library and information commitments to open access to knowledge.

Globalisation is a major driving factor in the Higher Education sector, which has resulted in significant developments relating to international academic mobility. This includes the establishment of international campuses, increasingly global facing research and extensive student international exchange schemes. We explore the advice given to LGBTQ+ staff and students in UK Higher Education Institutions ('HEIs') who engage in international mobility of this kind. Analysing data collected through Freedom of Information requests, we demonstrate that the advice given is overwhelmingly heteronormative, ignoring the potential challenges that LGBTQ+ travellers might fact and underestimating the impact of the disparate global landscape of LGBTQ+ rights. Drawing on agency literature, we argue that HEIs should develop detailed and informed policy which gives LGBTQ+ travellers greater agency during the travel process. We suggest that the lessons that can be learned from the UK context can be applied internationally by HEIs adapting to and developing in the increasingly globalised HE landscape.

Social identities relate to psychological perceptions of group memberships and form part of the self-concept. Socially identifying with groups has previously been found to associate with better mental well-being outcomes. This study first examined the factor structure and the reliability of measuring social identification in autistic adults. Confirmatory factor analysis showed that a factor structure was replicated in this sample for social identification with other autistic people, but not the family. Second, the study assessed the level to which autistic adults socially identified with different groups, the total number of social identities and whether these were associated with their mental well-being. Autistic adults reported feelings of social identification with many kinds of groups, some with multiple groups, whereas others did not socially identify with any group. Stronger feelings of social identification towards other autistic people and towards one's family, and with more groups overall, were associated with less severe self-reported depression symptoms and more facets of positive mental health. These findings indicate the importance of facilitating autistic people's engagement with social groups.

Children's adherence to gender stereotypes can be detrimental, yet interventions to tackle stereotyping have achieved mixed success. Few studies have examined interventions developed collaboratively by educators and researchers, and the impact of interventions that focus on increasing perceived similarities between genders has yet to be tested. The present study evaluated an intervention among 6- to 10-year-old British children (47 boys; 37 girls) compared to a control group (61 boys; 47 girls). Led by their class teacher via weekly 30-minute lessons, over a four-month period, children learned to identify and challenge stereotypes, and explored similarities between genders and diversity within gender (e.g., not all girls like pink). Key measures of gender flexibility in relation to toy play, occupations, and perceived similarity to gender groups were utilised. After controlling for baseline scores, the intervention group felt more similar to the other gender and reported that they could do a wider range of occupations in the future. Those who showed less flexibility around toy play at baseline were more flexible after the intervention. Boys in the intervention group reported that gender stereotypes were more unfair than did the control group. Findings are discussed in relation to theories of gender stereotyping and intervention research.

Background: This small study explores the lived experience of four UK-based fathers (one black British, one white Polish and two white British) caring for at least one child with a dual diagnosis of learning disability and autism. The key aim was to get as close as possible to understanding the experience of these fathers in their role as carers. Methods: The study makes use of interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) as an approach to gathering (via interview) and making sense of the fathers' experiences. Findings and discussion: We co-constructed three themes following analysis of the interview transcripts: "fatherhood: not doing enough, not doing it right"; "crossing worlds: relearning how to communicate and reclaiming fatherhood"; and "uncertain futures." We found that, for these fathers, the experiences of anxiety and helplessness were balanced with the appreciation of their value as protectors, their shifting sense of identity and of their closeness with their children. Relationships were central throughout. Conclusions: The exploration of fathers' experiences helps to highlight the less-measurable, nuanced aspects of the joys and challenges of caring for children with dual diagnoses of learning disability and autism which might be used to enhance the support provided and to inform new approaches.

Many Western industrialized nations have high levels of ethnic diversity but to date there are very few studies which investigate prelinguistic and early language development in infants from ethnic minority backgrounds. This study tracked the development of infant communicative gestures from 10 to 12 months (n = 59) in three culturally distinct groups in the United Kingdom and measured their relationship, along with maternal utterance frequency and responsiveness, to vocabulary development at 12 and 18 months. No significant differences were found in infant gesture development and maternal responsiveness across the groups, but relationships were identified between gesture, maternal responsiveness, and vocabulary development.

Background: There is a growing body of research to suggest that women with gestational diabetes are less likely to initiate and continue breastfeeding than those who have not had however findings are mixed. There is limited research in the UK assessing the frequency of breastfeeding in women with gestational diabetes, none reporting the association of breastfeeding with incidence of type 2 diabetes and existing research has not adequately adjusted for potential confounders. This study aims to assess frequency of breastfeeding among women with gestational diabetes compared to those without, and to explore how breastfeeding influences risk of future type 2 diabetes in women with gestational diabetes while adjusting for known confounders. Methods: Historical cohort study using routinely collected health care data from Fife and Tayside Health Boards, Scotland, UK including all women diagnosed with gestational diabetes between 1993 and 2015 and a matched comparator cohort (n = 4,968). Women with gestational diabetes were followed up until a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes, the end of the study, or date of death. Multinomial logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios for breastfeeding for the whole sample and the association between breastfeeding and development of type 2 diabetes in women with gestational diabetes was assessed by Cox regression. Results: Women with a diagnosis of gestational diabetes, who were younger, overweight/obese or living in the most deprived areas were significantly less likely to exclusively breastfeed for a duration of longer than eight weeks. Risk of developing type 2 diabetes among women with gestational diabetes was significantly higher for those who exclusively breastfed less than 8 weeks, lived in the most deprived areas or had a family history of diabetes. Conclusions: This study confirms the important role of a short duration of exclusive breastfeeding in protecting women with gestational diabetes against type 2 diabetes but highlights the challenges to breastfeeding in this group. Interventions are needed to support breastfeeding among women with gestational diabetes that are acceptable to younger, overweight/obese women living in deprived areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many students do not engage with reading the scientific literature, which is a core skill in undergraduate students. The learning environment has an important impact upon learning. It was postulated that taking reading out of the formal learning environment might impact upon students' willingness to engage with the literature, and confidence in doing so. A staff-student research partnership initiative funded by Kingston University allowed this hypothesis to be tested. Three Tea Club sessions, informal drop-in reading sessions were offered in a student-owned space within the Students' Union. Refreshments were supplied, aiming for a 'coffee house' feel. Although the numbers of students who engaged with the Tea Club were small, evaluations were positive. In particular students valued the opportunity for peer learning. However the chosen environment was too noisy. Future sessions will be offered within a different, less noisy environment with facilities for refreshments, and will be offered throughout the academic year to facilitate student engagement.

Outcomes among acute kidney injury (AKI) patients are poor in United Kingdom (UK) hospitals, and electronic alerts and care bundles may improve them. We implemented such a system at West Suffolk Hospital (WSH) called the 'AKI order set'. We aimed to assess its impact on all-cause mortality, length of stay (LOS) and renal function among AKI patients, and its utilization. Retrospective, single-center cohort study of patients ≥ 18 years old with AKI at WSH, a 430-bed general hospital serving a rural UK population of approximately 280,000. 7243 unique AKI events representing 5728 patients with full data were identified automatically from our electronic health record (EHR) between 02 September 2018 and 1 July 2021 (median age 78 years, 51% male). All-cause mortality, LOS and improvement in AKI stage, demographic and comorbidity data, medications and AKI order set use were automatically collected from the EHR. The AKI order set was used in 9.8% of AKI events and was associated with 28% lower odds of all-cause mortality (multivariable odds ratio [OR] 0.72, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.57–0.91). Median LOS was longer when the AKI order set was utilized than when not (11.8 versus 8.8 days, p <.001), but was independently associated with improvement in the AKI stage (28.9% versus 8.7%, p <.001; univariable OR 4.25, 95% CI 3.53–5.10, multivariable OR 4.27, 95% CI 3.54–5.14). AKI order set use led to improvements in all-cause mortality and renal function, but longer LOS, among AKI patients at WSH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the globalization of the English language, Global Englishes (GE) is a growing research paradigm with numerous pedagogical implications for those learning and teaching English. The study reported here provides insights on pre- and in-service Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) practitioners' perceptions of Global Englishes Language Teaching (GELT) (Galloway & Rose, 2015; Rose & Galloway, 2019), which aims to make TESOL classrooms more reflective of learners' needs in today's globalized world, where multilingualism is the norm and English functions as a lingua franca. Interviews (n=5) with those taking a GE course on an MSc TESOL programme at a Russell Group university in the UK were triangulated with a survey among the wider programme (n=66). The study reveals that curriculum innovation is complex, particularly when it requires a conceptual transition, and practitioners need time and support to implement change. Furthermore, it was clarified that GE has made little headway into 'traditional' TESOL classrooms, which remains biased towards 'native' English norms.

This study is an interpretative discourse analysis [following Gee, J. P. 2005. "An Introduction to Discourse Analysis: Theory and Method." 2nd ed. New York: Routledge; Gee, J. P. 2011. "How to Do Discourse Analysis: A Toolkit." London: Routledge; and Willig, C. 2008. "Introducing Qualitative Research in Psychology." 2nd ed. Berkshire: Open University Press], of three focus group conversations between academics in higher education during which talk centred around the topic of 'academic intelligence'. The research attended to the ways in which the academics discursively produced 'academic intelligence' and related social constructs, and how these constructs engendered discussion about 'good' students. The findings are discussed in three thematic sections: 'conceptual [un]ease'; 'bookishness, blue skies and brickies'; and 'resistance and reproduction'. The paper draws attention to the ways in which constructions of 'natural' academic intelligence underpin the illusion of meritocracy and justify academic hierarchy, whilst masking inequalities in educational practice.

An action research project involving 25 master's supervisors, from health and education disciplines, sought to enhance their understanding of dissertation supervision. Recognising that they were sometimes slightly unsure about their role, they sought to identify issues that contributed to this circumstance, and to develop supervisor preparation materials to support future colleagues. During interviews and collaborative workshops, colleagues shared their experiences and reflected with one another on the nature of supervision. Through this process, they constructed a model that conceptualises how they practice. The core element is an ongoing assessment of a student's readiness, motivation and individual situation. In response to this assessment, supervisors balance three functions: Facilitating, Nurturing and Maintaining Standards. Facilitating encourages student growth through challenge or stimulation. Nurturing involves the provision of support and reassurance within a safe space in which this growth can occur. Maintaining standards ensures that academic and professional rigour are preserved.

Background: Culex pipiens L. is a principal vector of zoonotic arboviruses in Europe, acting in both an amplification role in enzootic transmission between avian hosts and as a bridge vector between avian hosts and mammals. The species consists of two forms which are indistinguishable using morphological methods but possess varying ecological and physiological traits that influence their vector capacity. In this study we validate methods that can be used to extract trace DNA from single pupal exuviae of Cx. pipiens for use in molecular speciation of samples. These DNA extraction methods are compared using measurement of the total yield and successful identification using a real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay. Results: Genomic DNA was initially extracted from colony-derived individuals using an ethanol precipitation method, two commercially available DNA extraction kits: DNeasy® Blood & Tissue Kit (Qiagen, UK) and Wizard® SV Genomic DNA Purification System (Promega, UK) and a direct real-time PCR method. Time elapsed between eclosion and processing of pupae significantly influenced Cx. pipiens form identification as nucleic acid concentration and PCR amplification success decreased with increased time elapsed. Real-time PCR amplification success, however, was not shown to vary significantly between the three extraction methods, with all methods successfully identifying all samples, but the direct real-time PCR method achieved a lesser amplification success rate of 70% (n = 20 for each treatment). More variable results were produced when field-derived exuviae were used, with no significant difference in real-time PCR amplification success found across the four methods and a lower overall rate of successful identification of 55–80%. Conclusions: This study shows that both colony and field derived Cx. pipiens pupal exuviae can be a useful non-invasive source of trace DNA permitting accurate biotype differentiation for at least twenty-four hours post-eclosion. The significance and utility of this technique in ecological and behavioural studies of Cx. pipiens is discussed and recommendations made for use according to experimental scenario. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iron and steel slags have a long history of both disposal and beneficial use in the coastal zone. Despite the large volumes of slag deposited, comprehensive assessments of potential risks associated with metal(loid) leaching from iron and steel by-products are rare for coastal systems. This study provides a national-scale overview of the 14 known slag deposits in the coastal environment of Great Britain (those within 100 m of the mean high-water mark), comprising geochemical characterisation and leaching test data (using both low and high ionic strength waters) to assess potential leaching risks. The seaward facing length of slag deposits totalled at least 76 km, and are predominantly composed of blast furnace (iron-making) slags from the early to mid-20th Century. Some of these form tidal barriers and formal coastal defence structures, but larger deposits are associated with historical coastal disposal in many former areas of iron and steel production, notably the Cumbrian coast of England. Slag deposits are dominated by melilite phases (e.g. gehlenite), with evidence of secondary mineral formation (e.g. gypsum, calcite) indicative of weathering. Leaching tests typically show lower element (e.g. Ba, V, Cr, Fe) release under seawater leaching scenarios compared to deionised water, largely ascribable to the pH buffering provided by the former. Only Mn and Mo showed elevated leaching concentrations in seawater treatments, though at modest levels (<3 mg/L and 0.01 mg/L, respectively). No significant leaching of potentially ecotoxic elements such as Cr and V (mean leachate concentrations <0.006 mg/L for both) were apparent in seawater, which micro-X-Ray Absorption Near Edge Structure (μXANES) analysis show are both present in slags in low valence (and low toxicity) forms. Although there may be physical hazards posed by extensive erosion of deposits in high-energy coastlines, the data suggest seawater leaching of coastal iron and steel slags in the UK is likely to pose minimal environmental risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This column discusses the Anatomy Act 1977 (NSW) and its regulatory environment. The column begins with examining the history of anatomy regulation in the United Kingdom and Australia. It then goes on to analyse the history of the current anatomy regulation in New South Wales, pointing out areas for reform. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ongoing cladding crisis within the United Kingdom has elevated the need for designers and risk assessors to have the knowledge and tools to evaluate the fire safety of proposed and existing cladding systems. This paper documents efforts to develop a test that could be used to evaluate the fire safety hazards of cladding products that were either proposed for use in design or that were found on existing buildings. Specifically, the products of interest were composite products (i.e., those comprised of multiple layers). The conceptual approach of the European harmonised system was used as a basis for investigating whether a small‐scale test could be used to evaluate product fire hazards. A relevant fire scenario was identified, this was linked to candidate large‐scale reference tests, and this was linked to performance in a candidate small‐scale test. The candidate test showed remarkable agreement with the reference large‐scale test, however, many issues were also identified. It was found that, even when specifically intended to accommodate composite products, the small‐scale test was unable to always evaluate hazards. Thus the authors were left with the conclusion—regardless of the testing system, there are always products that will not fit the testing system, however hard one tries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Instrumented mouthguards (iMGs) are a novel technology being used within rugby to quantify head acceleration events. Understanding practitioners' perceptions of the barriers and facilitators to their use is important to support implementation and adoption. This study assessed men's and women's rugby union and league iMG managers' perceptions of staff and player interest in the technology, data and barriers to use. Forty‐six iMG managers (men's rugby union and league n = 20 and n = 9 and women's rugby union and league n = 7 and n = 10) completed an 18‐question survey. Perceived interest in data varied across staff roles with medical staff being reported as having the most interest. The iMG devices were perceived as easy to use but uncomfortable. Several uses of data were identified, including medical applications, player monitoring and player welfare. The comfort, size and fit of the iMG were reported as the major barriers to player use. Time constraints and a lack of understanding of data were barriers to engagement with the data. Continued education on how iMG data can be used is required to increase player and staff buy‐in, alongside improving comfort of the devices. Studies undertaken with iMGs investigating player performance and welfare outcomes will make data more useful and increase engagement. Highlights: From the perspective of instrumented mouthguard (iMG) managers (appointed practitioners responsible for the collection and analysis of iMG data in sports teams), the iMG technology is easy to use and has important sport science, medical and player welfare applications, yet is rarely used for these purposes in applied practice.To overcome barriers to adoption, technology companies should work closely with athletes to optimise the comfort, size and fit of iMGs and look to address any technological shortcomings perceived by practitioners, such as robustness and data anomalies.Future research should focus on the use of iMGs for sport science, medical and welfare purposes to improve understanding of iMG data and guide practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considerable efforts have been made to predict success in medical degrees. Much of the work has focused on failing students, so little is known about performance stability in medical students who pass and become doctors. If we can predict performance, we can better plan interventions and set standards. We tested the predictive capability of first year assessment on final year assessment marks in 314 graduating medical students. A linear regression model showed around half the variance in final year performance is explained by first year performance despite the very different nature of early assessment. Marks at graduation can be predicted with some accuracy using only first year results. With this information, we can better anticipate student performance and set defensible passing standards. Either first and final year assessment measures the same underlying attributes (cognitive ability, conscientiousness), first year assessment provides an absolutely critical foundation for graduation, or both.

The authors introduce a consistency-based approach to detecting examiner bias. On comparing intra-class correlation coefficients on transformed data for supervisor continuous performance and report marks (ICC1*) with those for supervisor continuous performance and second marker report marks (ICC2*), a highly significant difference was obtained for both the entire cohort (ICC1* = 0.72, ICC2* = 0.30, F = 2.47, p less than 0.0005 (N = 1085)) and the subgroup with high supervisor ratings for continuous performance (ICC1* = 0.62, ICC2* = 0.24, F = 1.97, p less than 0.0005 (n = 952)). A strong halo effect was detected and preliminary evidence was obtained for the presence of a strong horn effect for students with lower scores, thus providing a basis for future research. (Contains 1 footnote, 1 table, and 1 figure.)

Background: Type two diabetes (T2D) is a leading cause of both chronic kidney disease (CKD) and onward progression to end-stage renal disease. Timely diagnosis coding of CKD in patients with T2D could lead to improvements in quality of care and patient outcomes. Aim: To assess the consistency between estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR)-based evidence of CKD and CKD diagnosis coding in UK primary care. Design & setting: A retrospective analysis of electronic health record data in a cohort of people with T2D from 60 primary care centres within England between 2012 and 2022. Method: We estimated the incidence rate of CKD per 100 person-years using eGFR-based CKD and diagnosis codes. Logistic regression was applied to establish which attributes were associated with diagnosis coding. Time from eGFR-based CKD to entry of a diagnosis code was summarised using the median and interquartile range. Results: The overall incidence of CKD was 2.32 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.24 to 2.41) and significantly higher for eGFR-based criteria than diagnosis codes: 1.98 (95% CI = 1.90 to 2.05) versus 1.06 (95% CI = 1.00 to 1.11), respectively; P<0.001. Only 45.4% of CKD incidences identified using eGFR-based criteria had a corresponding diagnosis code. Patients who were younger, had a higher CKD stage (G4), had an observed urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (A1), or no observed HbA1c in the past year were more likely to have a diagnosis code. Conclusion: Diagnosis coding of patients with eGFR-based evidence of CKD in UK primary care is poor within patients with T2D, despite CKD being a well-known complication of diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the well-documented benefits of breastfeeding, the UK has one of the lowest breastfeeding rates in the world. One of the areas that has been identified as impacting on a woman's experience of breastfeeding is body image. The aim of this study was to explore the body image experiences of breastfeeding mothers in the UK. Eighteen female participants were interviewed about their thoughts and feelings around their body image, specifically in relation to their breastfeeding. Three themes were developed following thematic analysis of the data: Breastfeeding as a functional tool, Body confidence and breastfeeding in public and Not feeling like the real me: a loss of identity. Implications of the findings are discussed, with suggestions for health promotion and ideas for encouraging a more positive body image in pregnant and breastfeeding women, with the hope of improving breastfeeding rates and experiences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are different ways of theorising dyslexia and different ways of constructing meanings around dyslexia in different learning contexts. This paper considers the role of neoliberalist ideology in shaping conversations about dyslexia and "fairness" during two focus group conversations analysed as part of a study into the discursive construction of dyslexia in higher education. Ideological analysis was undertaken with reference to Gee's discourse analysis and Willig's concept of the use of discursive resources in interaction. Investigation identified neoliberalist ideology as a powerful voice within the analysed texts, and as directive for identity and action. This paper argues that recognition of the ways in which neoliberalist ideology shapes everyday conversation about learning and learning differences is vital in the construction and maintenance of fairer higher education in the UK.

Background: The English Cocker Spaniel (ECS) is one of the most popular dog breeds in the UK but information on disorder predisposition and protection is limited. Using anonymised veterinary clinical data from the VetCompass™ Programme, this study aimed to compare disorder predisposition and protection between the ECS and the remaining dogs under primary veterinary care in the UK during 2016. Electronic patient records for random samples of ECS and non-ECS were reviewed. The most common disorders diagnosed during 2016 were extracted and compared using multivariable logistic regression, controlling for confounders. Results: The analysis included random samples of 2510/10,313 (24.3%) ECS and 7813/326,552 (2.39%) non-ECS. After accounting for confounding by age, sex, bodyweight within breed-sex, insurance status and veterinary practice group, the ECS had increased odds of 21/43 (48.85%) disorders at fine-level precision, with highest odds for aural discharge (odds ratio (OR) 14.66, 95% confidence interval (CI): 7.73–30.90, P < 0.001) and keratoconjunctivitis sicca (OR 7.64, 95% CI: 4.33–14.14, P < 0.001) and lowest odds for atopic dermatitis (OR 0.14, 95% CI: 0.05–0.31, P < 0.001) and allergy (OR 0.14, 95% CI: 0.06–0.28, P < 0.001). Conclusions: This study provides evidence for strong predisposition to aural and ocular disorders and protection from hypersensitivity disorders in the ECS. These results can aid dog owners, breeders, and veterinarians to better monitor health in ECS, and promote earlier diagnosis with improved prognosis. Further, the results can help breeding organisations establish key priorities the health-based reforms of the ECS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research explores the experiences of Beth, a university student in the UK, as she comes to be labelled as 'dyslexic', and as she has her diagnosis taken away. Through use of Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) and discourse analysis, the research seeks to understand how Beth made sense of these experiences, and to explore the discursive 'life' of dyslexia within this sense-making. The discussion in this paper proceeds chronologically through Beth's story, from 'struggle', to 'legitimation' to 'derogation', and concludes with a call to recognise the role of diagnosis in the field of special educational needs (SEN) from a social constructionist and relational perspective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Outcomes among acute kidney injury (AKI) patients are poor in United Kingdom (UK) hospitals, and electronic alerts and care bundles may improve them. We implemented such a system at West Suffolk Hospital (WSH) called the ‘AKI order set’. We aimed to assess its impact on all-cause mortality, length of stay (LOS) and renal function among AKI patients, and its utilization. Methods: Retrospective, single-center cohort study of patients ≥ 18years old with AKI at WSH, a 430-bed general hospital serving a rural UK population of approximately 280,000. 7243 unique AKI events representing 5728 patients with full data were identified automatically from our electronic health record (EHR) between 02 September 2018 and 1 July 2021 (median age 78years, 51% male). All-cause mortality, LOS and improvement in AKI stage, demographic and comorbidity data, medications and AKI order set use were automatically collected from the EHR. Results: The AKI order set was used in 9.8% of AKI events and was associated with 28% lower odds of all-cause mortality (multivariable odds ratio [OR] 0.72, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.57– 0.91). Median LOS was longer when the AKI order set was utilized than when not (11.8 versus 8.8days, p<.001), but was independently associated with improvement in the AKI stage (28.9% versus 8.7%, p<.001; univariable OR 4.25, 95% CI 3.53–5.10, multivariable OR 4.27, 95% CI 3.54–5.14). Conclusions: AKI order set use led to improvements in all-cause mortality and renal function, but longer LOS, among AKI patients at WSH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Given limited data regarding the involvement of disadvantaged groups in paediatric diabetes clinical trials, this study aimed to evaluate the socioeconomic representativeness of participants recruited into a multinational clinical trial in relation to regional and national type 1 diabetes reference populations. Methods: Retrospective, cross-sectional evaluation of a subset of adolescent type 1 diabetes cardiorenal intervention trial (AdDIT) participants from Australia (n = 144), Canada (n = 312) and the UK (n = 173). Validated national measures of deprivation were used: the Index of Relative Socioeconomic Disadvantage (IRSD) 2016 (Australia), the Material Resources (MR) dimension of the Canadian Marginalisation index 2016 (Canada) and the Index of Multiple Deprivation (IMD) 2015 (UK). Representativeness was assessed by comparing the AdDIT cohort's distribution of deprivation quintiles with that of the local paediatric type 1 diabetes population (regional), and the broader type 1 diabetes population for which the trial's intervention was targeted (national). Results: Recruited study cohorts from each country had higher proportions of participants with higher SES, and significant underrepresentation of lower SES, in relation to their national references. The socioeconomic make-up in Australia mirrored that of the regional population (p = 0.99). For Canada, the 2nd least deprived (p = 0.001) and the most deprived quintiles (p < 0.001) were over- and under-represented relative to the regional reference, while the UK featured higher regional and national SES bias with over-representation and under-representation from the least-deprived and most-deprived quintiles (p < 0.0001). Conclusions: Significant national differences in trial participation of low SES participants were observed, highlighting limitations in access to clinical research and the importance of reporting sociodemographic representation in diabetes clinical trials. Trial registration: NCT01581476. Registered on 20 April 2012. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Covid-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of remote patient and professional communication. This has been especially important for highly specialised and regionally-based specialties such as plastic surgery. The aim of this study was to review how UK plastic surgery units represent themselves online and their phone accessibility. UK plastic surgery units were identified using the BAPRAS website and their websites and telephone accessibility assessed. Whilst a minority of units have clearly invested heavily in ensuring comprehensive webpages, nearly a third have no dedicated webpage at all. We found significant variation in quality and user-friendliness of online resources both for patients and for other healthcare professionals, with less than a quarter of units providing comprehensive contact details, emergency referral guidance, or information about changes to services due to Covid-19, to highlight a few areas. Communication with the BAPRAS website was also poor with less than half of web-links connecting to correct and relevant webpage and only 13.5% of phone numbers connecting directly to a useful plastic surgery number. In the phone component of our study we found that 47% of calls to 'direct' numbers went to voicemail but wait-times were significantly less than going through hospital switchboards and connections were more accurate. In a world where a business' credibility is so heavily based on their online appearance and, in an increasingly online era of medicine, we hope that this study may be a resource for units to improve their web-based resources and prompt further research in enhancing patient experience online. • Many plastic surgery units have no online presence. Those that do are hugely variable. • Only a minority of units have comprehensive websites or webpages. • Their communication with the BAPRAS website is frequently incorrect or out of date. • Most direct telephone numbers are incorrect or out of date. • Direct phone numbers are faster and more accurate than via a hospital switchboard. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three Odontaspis ferox (confirmed by mtDNA barcoding) were found in the English Channel and Celtic Sea in 2023 at Lepe, UK (50.7846, −1.3508), Kilmore Quay, Ireland (52.1714, −6.5937), and Lyme Bay, UK (50.6448, −2.9302). These are the first records of O. ferox in either country, and extend the species' range by over three degrees of latitude, to >52° N. They were ~275 (female), 433 (female), and 293 cm (male) total length, respectively. These continue a series of new records, possibly indicative of a climate change−induced shift in the species' range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urban vegetation can influence urban hydrology and reduce the risk of flooding. Urban forestry studies have suggested that tree type and species choice affect the amount of rainwater intercepted and retained. Little information exists, however, for other landscape typologies, and the sorts of ground-cover plants that are best used to retain/detain rainwater during storm events. This is important as many urban spaces are too small to facilitate trees, but can accommodate roadside vegetation, buffer strips, rain gardens, green roofs and stormwater planters. Thus, this research aimed to determine how choice of ground-cover taxa affected rainwater interception and retention. Six model species with contrasting leaf morphologies were used to determine how well rainwater was intercepted, but also dissipated through evapotranspiration (ET). A pot-based system was used to determine how plant water balance changed during late summer in the UK, with the aim to understand how leaf traits affected hydrological processes. Plant choice was important, with fine-leaved taxa, Festuca glauca and Dianthus 'Haytor White' showing best rainwater interception and Festuca demonstrating highest rates of dissipation from the substrate. Overall, compared to non-planted pots, those with plants present were more effective at capturing water (by 2.3–3.0x), and evapo-transpiring water (by 2.5-4.0x). Results indicate that ground cover vegetation has potential to aid urban water management in those localities where space is limited for trees. Plant choice and community-structure should be considered, especially when there is a desire to dry out soil/substrate quickly and restore maximum soil moisture holding capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Britain in Bloom is a UK national campaign to help people improve their local environment through gardening, a popular and accessible pastime. This research presents a framework to understand the relationships between gardeners and their front gardens (yards). Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis of focus group data with 20 Britain in Bloom gardeners in Greater London explores why people garden in front gardens, how social cohesion may emerge from front gardening activities, and the health benefits of the presence of front gardens for residents and passersby. Front gardens played a key role in supporting participants' personal identity and self-expression. Maintaining a front garden was seen as making a positive and satisfying contribution to their local area and to others' pleasure. Social cohesion in the street or neighborhood occurred through informal verbal communication and knowledge-sharing. These findings are relevant to the impacts of front gardens and community greening initiatives in private spaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) occurs more commonly in military veterans than the general population. Whilst current therapies are effective, up to half of veterans commencing treatment do not complete it. Reconsolidation of Traumatic Memories (RTM) protocol is a novel, easy to train, talking therapy with promising findings. We examine the feasibility of undertaking an efficacy trial of RTM in veterans. Methods: A parallel group, single-centre randomised controlled feasibility trial with a post-completion qualitative interview study. Sixty military veterans were randomised 2:1 to RTM (n = 35) or Trauma Focussed Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) (n = 25). We aimed to determine the rate of recruitment and retention, understand reasons for attrition, determine data quality and size of efficacy signal. We explored veterans' perceptions of experiences of joining the trial, the research procedures and therapy, and design improvements for future veteran studies. Military veterans with a diagnosis of PTSD or complex PTSD, and clinically significant symptoms, were recruited between January 2020 and June 2021. Primary outcome was feasibility using pre-determined progression criteria alongside PTSD symptoms, with depression, recovery, and rehabilitation as secondary outcomes. Data were collected at baseline, 6, 12, and 20 weeks. Interviews (n = 15) were conducted after 20 weeks. Both therapies were delivered by trained charity sector provider therapists. Results: Participants' mean age was 53 years, the mean baseline PTSD symptoms score assessed by the Post-traumatic Stress Checklist (PCL-5) was 57 (range 0–80). Fifty had complex PTSD and 39 had experienced ≥ 4 traumas. Data were analysed at 20 weeks for feasibility outcomes (n = 60) and mental health outcomes (n = 45). Seven of eight progression criteria were met. The RTM group experienced a mean 18-point reduction on the PCL-5. TFCBT group participants experienced a mean reduction of eight points. Forty-eight percent of the RTM group no longer met diagnostic criteria for PTSD compared to 16% in the TFCBT group. All veterans reported largely positive experiences of the therapy and research procedures and ways to improve them. Conclusion: RTM therapy remains a promising psychological intervention for the treatment of PTSD, including complex PTSD, in military veterans. With specific strengthening, the research protocol is fit for purpose in delivering an efficacy trial. Trial registration: ISRCTN registration no 10314773 on 01.10.2019. Full trial protocol: available on request or downloadable at ISRCTN reg. no. 10314773. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Real-world walking speed (RWS) measured using wearable devices has the potential to complement the Movement Disorder Society-Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (MDS-UPDRS III) for motor assessment in Parkinson's disease (PD). Objective: Explore cross-sectional and longitudinal differences in RWS between PD and older adults (OAs), and whether RWS was related to motor disease severity cross-sectionally, and if MDS-UPDRS III was related to RWS, longitudinally. Methods: 88 PD and 111 OA participants from ICICLE-GAIT (UK) were included. RWS was evaluated using an accelerometer at four time points. RWS was aggregated within walking bout (WB) duration thresholds. Between-group-comparisons in RWS between PD and OAs were conducted cross-sectionally, and longitudinally with mixed effects models (MEMs). Cross-sectional association between RWS and MDS-UPDRS III was explored using linear regression, and longitudinal association explored with MEMs. Results: RWS was significantly lower in PD (1.04 m/s) in comparison to OAs (1.10 m/s) cross-sectionally. RWS significantly decreased over time for both cohorts and decline was more rapid in PD by 0.02 m/s per year. Significant negative relationship between RWS and the MDS-UPDRS III only existed at a specific WB threshold (30 to 60 s, β= – 3.94 points, p = 0.047). MDS-UPDRS III increased significantly by 1.84 points per year, which was not related to change in RWS. Conclusion: Digital mobility assessment of gait may add unique information to quantify disease progression remotely, but further validation in research and clinical settings is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The paper offers clarity to the market orientation (MO) and performance relationship in real estate by examining the limited relevant literature, presenting international results and discussing the implications for market orientation researchers and real estate practitioners. Design/methodology/approach: Based on a survey of 1,251 individual renters in the USA, the United Kingdom (UK) and Canada, this study examines the relationship between residential property managers' MO and performance. It extends MO research in real estate by focusing on property management as opposed to property development. Findings: The results show that MO and performance are correlated in all three countries. Commitments to understanding and serving customers and differentiating from competitors are shown to enhance performance measures including residential tenants' loyalty toward the property manager, trust in the property manager, pride in rental accommodation and commitment to paying rent on time. Originality/value: This study is one of the largest MO studies in real estate in terms of sample size and offers a unique international perspective. The research is novel as MO is evaluated by tenants as opposed to self-assessed by firms. The paper offers a new measure of property manager performance and provides strategic directives for real estate professionals seeking to enhance competitiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fathers' interactions with their young children are understudied. Variations between families in the masculine nurturance of toddlers can be expected, depending on personal characteristics, gender, family structures, and cultural contexts in which they are situated. This is a qualitative study, focusing on probing the nature of the exchanges between female toddlers and their male caregivers, to gain an understanding of the dynamic nature of these interchanges. We observed four thriving 30-month-old girls in Italy, the UK, Peru, and Thailand, wherein filmed transactions between them and their fathers and grandfathers during one "Day in their Lives" were observed, documented, and analysed. The case studies of these young girls demonstrated considerable agency in their interactions with their caregivers, which were, in part, responsible for a wide range of promotive nurturance styles in the adults.

We introduced voluntary wiki-based exercises to a long-running cognitive psychology course, part of the core curriculum for an undergraduate degree in psychology. Over 2 yearly cohorts, students who used the wiki more also scored higher on the final written exam. Using regression analysis, it is possible to account for students' tendency to score well on other psychology exams, thus statistically removing some obvious candidate third factors, such as general talent or enthusiasm for psychology, which might drive this correlation. Such an analysis shows that both high-and low-grading students who used the wiki got higher scores on the final exam, with engaged wiki users scoring an average of an extra 5 percentage points. We offer an interpretation of the mechanisms of action in terms of the psychological literature on learning and memory.

The contemporary attempts to tackle poverty and child poverty in the United Kingdom have been seriously hindered by the effects of the economic crisis (Hirsch, 2008a; Mooney, 2011). The prevailing discourses of the recession and intergenerational poverty can lead to a view that the effects of child poverty and the consequent detrimental impact on school education and future prospects for some young people are intractable (Sinclair & McKendrick, 2009). There can be insufficient emphasis on the successful attempts, however fragile, to intervene in the cycle of deprivation. This article reports on research conducted in two contrasting groups of secondary schools in the city of Glasgow, located in areas of deprivation, as they work to secure initial positive school leaver destinations for young people. This small-scale case study highlights the importance of a strong leadership vision committed to initial positive school leaver destinations, but complemented by distributed leadership and support from external partners to enable sustained successes. It also highlights the importance of individual attention to all young people to support and motivate them and the effectiveness of intervention at an early stage. (Contains 3 tables and 10 notes.)

Purpose: This study assessed mothers' opinions about the feasibility and acceptability of using the ActiGraph GT3X+, Actiheart, and activPAL3 with their 2- to 3-year-old children, as well as with themselves and their husbands/partners, for an 8-day period. Method: Six focus groups were run with Pakistani and White British mothers ("n" = 17), in English or Urdu, at Children's Centers in Bradford, United Kingdom. Each accelerometer was shown to the mothers while its characteristics and wearing procedures were explained. Mothers were then asked about their opinion on the feasibility of use with their toddlers, themselves, and husbands/partners, as well as their monitor preference. Data were transcribed "verbatim" and analyzed through thematic analysis. Results: The ActiGraph was the most preferred accelerometer for use with children, while the Actiheart was the least favorable. The ActiGraph was also the most preferred accelerometer for use with both mothers and fathers. Main issues raised included unsuitability of the Actiheart for fathers due to chest hair, discomfort due to the large size of the activPAL3 in relation to children's thighs, and children pulling off the Actiheart or tampering with the device if its presence was noticed (ActiGraph/Actiheart). Conclusion: The most preferred/accepted accelerometer overall was the ActiGraph GT3X+ for both children and parents. Issues raised with the devices have potential to impact recruitment and compliance rates of studies targeting this population, which highlights the importance of assessing the feasibility/acceptability of different devices with the target population ahead of planning research involving physical activity measurement.

Frailty is an aging-related clinical phenotype defined as a state in which there is an increase in a person's vulnerability for dependency and/or mortality when exposed to a stressor. While underlying mechanisms leading to the occurrence of frailty are complex, the importance of genetic factors has not been fully investigated. We conducted a large-scale genome-wide association study (GWAS) of frailty, as defined by the five criteria (weight loss, exhaustion, physical activity, walking speed, and grip strength) captured in the Fried Frailty Score (FFS), in 386,565 European descent participants enrolled in the UK Biobank (mean age 57 [SD 8] years, 208,481 [54%] females). We identified 37 independent, novel loci associated with the FFS (p < 5 × 10–8), including seven loci without prior described associations with other traits. The variants associated with FFS were significantly enriched in brain tissues as well as aging-related pathways. Our post-GWAS bioinformatic analyses revealed significant genetic correlations between FFS and cardiovascular-, neurological-, and inflammation-related diseases/traits, and subsequent Mendelian Randomization analyses identified causal associations with chronic pain, obesity, diabetes, education-related traits, joint disorders, and depressive/neurological, metabolic, and respiratory diseases. The GWAS signals were replicated in the Health and Retirement Study (HRS, n = 9,720, mean age 73 [SD 7], 5,582 [57%] females), where the polygenic risk score built from UKB GWAS was significantly associated with the FFS in HRS individuals (OR per SD of the score 1.27, 95% CI 1.22–1.31, p = 1.3 × 10–11). These results provide new insight into the biology of frailty by comprehensively evaluating its genetic architecture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brown macroalgae habitats provide a range of ecosystem services, offering coastal protection, supporting and increasing biodiversity, and more recently have been recognized for their potential role as blue carbon habitats. Consequently, accurate areal estimates of these habitats are vitally important. Satellite imagery is often utilized for areal estimates of vegetated habitats due to their ability to capture vast areas but are disadvantaged by their lower resolution. In contrast, imagery collected by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) provide high‐resolution datasets but are unable to cover the necessary spatial scale required for calculating areal estimates at regional, national or international scales. This study successfully and accurately corrects the outputs from low‐resolution Sentinel 2 imagery to the standard of high‐resolution UAV imagery by using a novel brown algae index and a simple regression model to provide accurate spatial estimates. This model was applied to rocky shores across Wales, UK to predict a spatial extent of 6.2 km2 for three fucoid macroalgae species; Ascophyllum nodosum, Fucus vesiculosus and F. serratus. The regression model was validated in two ways. First, the data used to create the regression model was split to train and test (50:50) the model, with a root mean square error of ~8%–14%. Secondly, spatial estimates of fucoids in independent aerial imagery were assessed using aerial photography interpretation and compared to that of the regression model (7% difference). The carbon standing stock of fucoids calculated from the spatial estimate (6.2 km2) was found to be significantly lower than that of other marine carbon stores, indicating that fucoids do not significantly contribute as a blue carbon habitat based on biomass alone. This study produces a robust and accurate remote sensing technique to estimate spatial extent of macroalgae at large spatial scales, with possible worldwide applicability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Children's lives in the Covid‐19 pandemic were subject to unparalleled restrictions on and disruption to their daily lives. This paper explores the day‐to‐day relational, social participation and activities of young children in one East London borough in early 2021, as told through qualitative interviews with their parents. We adopt a social‐ecological model of children's development, a child rights focused understanding of well‐being, underpinned by an agentic view of both parents and children. We find that for some children, parents had additional time to spend with them and new activities were possible. But for others, particularly those living 'compressed lives' in low‐income households and over‐crowded accommodation with no outside space of their own, all three aspects—relational, participatory and activities—were significantly diminished. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact global psychological wellbeing. To investigate the sustained impact of COVID-19 on wellbeing, the current study longitudinally assessed fear of COVID-19, anxiety, depression, intolerance of uncertainty, worry, sleep quality, loneliness and alcohol use during the pandemic in the United Kingdom. Timepoint 1 (T1; N = 445) took place in February 2021 following the highest number of pandemic-related deaths in the UK. Timepoint 2 (T2, N = 198) took place in June 2021 when pandemic-related deaths had declined considerably, and many had been vaccinated. At T1, COVID-19 fear predicted elevated levels of anxiety, depression, intolerance of uncertainty, worry, sleep quality and loneliness. At T2, we observed that levels of COVID-19 fear, depression, loneliness and sleep quality decreased. However, COVID-19 fear continued to predict elevated intolerance of uncertainty, worry and impaired sleep quality. These findings demonstrate the longitudinal impact of COVID-19 fear on psychological wellbeing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: There is a growing understanding of the benefits of patient and public involvement (PPI), and its evaluation, in research. An online version of the CUBE PPI evaluation framework has been developed. We sought to use the CUBE to evaluate the value of early PPI with two small healthcare companies during product development. Methods: Contributors were recruited online and had lived experience of either type 1 diabetes or obesity. Two 1‐h sessions were run with a company developing a smartphone application to manage diabetes (DEE‐EM): one with young people (YP; n = 5) and one with parents (n = 7). Two 1‐h sessions were run with a company developing a weight‐loss product, both with adults (n = 7 in each session). Sessions were facilitated by an independent University researcher and attended by company representatives, who presented their product. One facilitator led the evaluation of the session by giving a demonstration of the CUBE and asking simple questions in the YP session. Results: A high proportion of contributors completed the CUBE (80.5% DEE‐EM; 93% Oxford Medical Products). Responses were positive to all four CUBE dimensions (in italics). Contributors felt there were diverse ways to contribute to the sessions, and that they had a strong voice to add to the discussion. Balance was achieved regarding whose concerns (public or company) led the agenda, and contributors felt that both companies would make changes based on the discussion. The supportive attitude of both companies resulted in most contributors feeling comfortable participating in PPI sessions with the industry, while recognising the profit‐making aspect of their work. Conclusions: PPI with small healthcare companies is both feasible and worthwhile. The CUBE framework facilitated the evaluation of the interaction between experts in different knowledge spaces. We provide recommendations for future projects, including considerations of who should participate and the level of implicit endorsement of the product that participation implies. Patient or Public Contribution: People with lived experience of type 1 diabetes or obesity were invited to contribute to one of four PPI sessions, which they then evaluated. One contributor agreed to contribute to the analysis of the evaluation data and interpretation and preparation of the manuscript. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]