Now showing items 21-40 of 2474

    • The enrichment of whey protein isolate hydrogels with poly-γ-glutamic acid promotes the proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of preosteoblasts

      Baines, Daniel K.; Platania, Varvara; Tavernaraki, Nikoleta N.; Parati, Mattia; Wright, Karen; Radecka, Iza; Chatzinikolaidou, Maria; Douglas, Timothy E.L. (MDPI, 2023-12-23)
      Osseous disease accounts for over half of chronic pathologies, but there is a limited supply of autografts, the gold standard; hence, there is a demand for new synthetic biomaterials. Herein, we present the use of a promising, new dairy-derived biomaterial: whey protein isolate (WPI) in the form of hydrogels, modified with the addition of different concentrations of the biotechnologically produced protein-like polymeric substance poly-γ-glutamic acid (γ-PGA) as a potential scaffold for tissue regeneration. Raman spectroscopic analysis demonstrated the successful creation of WPI-γ-PGA hydrogels. A cytotoxicity assessment using preosteoblastic cells demonstrated that the hydrogels were noncytotoxic and supported cell proliferation from day 3 to 14. All γ-PGA-containing scaffold compositions strongly promoted cell attachment and the formation of dense interconnected cell layers. Cell viability was significantly increased on γ-PGA-containing scaffolds on day 14 compared to WPI control scaffolds. Significantly, the cells showed markers of osteogenic differentiation; they synthesised increasing amounts of collagen over time, and cells showed significantly enhanced alkaline phosphatase activity at day 7 and higher levels of calcium for matrix mineralization at days 14 and 21 on the γ-PGA-containing scaffolds. These results demonstrated the potential of WPI-γ-PGA hydrogels as scaffolds for bone regeneration.
    • Enhancing the assessment and the feedback in higher education

      Gomis, Kasun; Saini, Mandeep; Arif, Mohammed; Pathirage, Chaminda (Emerald, 2023-12-18)
      Purpose Lack of appropriate student support and drawbacks in academic progression signify the importance of enhancing assessment and feedback in higher education (HE). Although assessment and feedback are significant in HE, minimal empirical research holistically explores the best practices. This study aims to address the niche and develop a decisive guideline for enhancing assessment setting and feedback provision within HE curricula. Design/methodology/approach A systematic approach was taken to obtain data for the study: a literature review underpinning the thematic content analysis of study documents, followed by semi-structured interviews. Document analysis contained mid-module reviews/student feedback; rubrics used in assessment; and formative/summative feedback provided for the graded work. Documental analysis informed the key attributes of the semi-structured interview. Interpretive structural modelling (ISM) analysis identified the influence and reliance of each driver. Findings This study revealed 15 drivers – 4 fundamental, 6 significant and 5 important – for enhancing assessment and feedback. The level partitioning from the ISM analysis established that all assessment and feedback needs to be underpinned by the university policy and fed into the assessment regime and marking scheme. This study identified that National Student Survey results were significantly improved due to implementing said drivers compared with the national and sector benchmarks. Practical implications The developed drivers enable the best practices in assessment setting and feedback provision. The level partition diagram can be used as a decisive guideline or a provisional framework in assessment and feedback provision for quality assurance in HE. Originality/value This study is one of, if not the only, to develop a guideline for signposting drivers and their influence and reliance to enhance assessment and feedback in a holistic HE setting. The developed drivers and the level partition diagram bring novelty and add to the current body of knowledge.
    • Best practice for safety management – case of major oil processing country in the Middle East

      Oduoza, Chike F.; Alamri, Reem; Oloke, David (Emerald, 2023-11-15)
      Purpose Deployment of health and safety standards in extremely hazardous work environments such as oil and gas sector, is essential to minimise accidents leaving employees permanently or temporarily incapacitated. The purpose of this research, is to understand why there are frequent accidents in case country's oil and gas sector, with a view to recommend solutions to mitigate problems. Design/methodology/approach Research methodology involved extensive review of the literature to appreciate background, and current research on typical accidents and safety measures taken at oil and gas construction sites to minimise accidents in a middle east country. Interviews, questionnaires and case stidies were deployed to acquire data which highlighted major reasons for accidents occurrence at oil and gas construction sites, and safety tools and techniques that could reduce accident rate if adopted by companies. Findings Findings, showed that oil and gas construction projects in case country were prone to health and safety related risks, challenges and accidents due to failure to comply with standards and legislation. Construction site teams and shop floor staff were rarely involved in development of safety policies, and some had no understanding of requirements and procedures underpinning safety during operations. Research recommended rapid application/adoption of international standards underpinned by ISO 45000 series and staff training at all levels. Deployment of robots and use of machine learning technology were suggested to implement risky tasks in the sector. Originality/value Research was based on rampant accidents occurring in hazardous oil and gas sector in country studied. Enforcement of health and safety standards, and use of modern tools and techniques were recommended to minimise accident rate.
    • Written evidence submitted by Suresh Renukappa, Chandrashekar Subbarao, Subashini Suresh, Prashant Pillai, Panagiotis Georgakis, Kieran Fernando and Chandrashekar Rangaswamy (CYB0010)

      Renukappa, Suresh; Subbarao, Chandrashekar; Suresh, Subashini; Pillai, Prashant; Georgakis, Panagiotis; Fernando, Kieran; Rangaswamy, Chandrashekar (UK Parliament, 2023-12-13)
    • Survey of factors contributing to the happiness of older persons: A cross-sectional study of associated worries, anxiety, and depression

      Kar, Shreyan; Kumar, Prasanta; Rath, Namita; Kar, Brajaballav; Das, Tushar Kanti; Kar, Nilamadhab (Medknow Publications, 2023-11-09)
      BACKGROUND: Old age is associated with a greater prevalence of worry, anxiety, and depression when compared to the younger age groups. Age-specific stressors and comorbidities accumulate and negatively impact the well-being of older adults. AIMS/OBJECTIVES: In this context, we intended to study the factors influencing the happiness of older adults. METHODS: It was a survey through a questionnaire of older adults attending a public health conference on old age-related issues. We inquired about what makes them happy, their worries, and physical and mental health issues. We also assessed their depression through the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), anxiety through the General Anxiety Disorder 7 (GAD-7) scale, and quality of life (QoL) using a scale of 0 being worst to 10 being best. RESULTS: Factors that brought happiness to older adults were family and friends (25.7%), social activities (28.6%), traveling and sightseeing (11.4%), reading and writing (11.4%), meeting people (8.6%), and having time for self (8.6%). Besides these, 22.9% reported they enjoy working. A clinical level of anxiety (GAD-7 score of 10 or more) was present in 17.2% and depression (PHQ-9 score of 10 or more) in 28.6% of older adults. The anxiety and depression scores were positively correlated (P < 0.001) in the sample studied. There were no differences between genders related to concerns, health, finance, relationships, memory, needs for help, QoL, and severity of anxiety or depression. CONCLUSIONS: Older adults could identify various factors linked to their happiness, despite various concerns and mental health issues. The information might help family, informal, and professional caregivers to support activities that contribute to the well-being and happiness of older adults.
    • Use of hypnotics for the management of insomnia in psychiatric patients: A clinical audit and review on Z‑drugs

      Kar, Nilamadhab; Ohri, Lakshmi; Mahil, Jasmin; Merlici, Sorina (Medknow Publications, 2023-11-09)
      BACKGROUND: Insomnia is a common condition in patients with mental illness, for which hypnotic medications are regularly prescribed. AIM: It was intended to study the clinical practice of using hypnotic medications including Z-drugs for insomnia and compare it with treatment guidelines. METHODS: In this clinical audit, data were collected from the clinical records of patients who attended outpatient department in adult and old age psychiatric units in a mental health service. RESULTS: Out of the consecutive 203 patients screened, 50 (24.6%) were prescribed hypnotic/sedative drugs. It was observed that around half (54%) received nonpharmacological interventions for insomnia, 42% had psychoeducation, and 24% sleep hygiene. Zopiclone (56%) and promethazine (26%) were more commonly prescribed; however, lorazepam (14%) and diazepam (16%) were also used. In the majority of cases, these were prescribed on a “if required” basis. Duration of hypnotic prescription was specified in only 36%, whereas many patients continued these medications for months (26%) and years (26%). CONCLUSION: There is a scope to increase the use of nonpharmacological treatments for insomnia. Reviewing the period of use of hypnotic medications is essential as many patients continue them for longer durations than recommended. Treatment of insomnia needs focused attention in psychiatric clinics.
    • Translation and linguistic validation of recovering quality of life scale in Indian languages: a review of the process and challenges

      Kar, Nilamadhab; ReQoL Translation India Team (Medknow Publications, 2023-11-09)
      Quality of life (QOL) is affected by various factors including mental health. This is now commonly used in clinical assessments and as an outcome measure in research. However, there is a dearth of QOL scales in local languages in India for specific use in mental health settings. It was intended to review the translation process of the recovering QOL (ReQoL) scale in major Indian languages, the linguistic and cultural challenges in the translation process and to reflect on the findings on clinical usability of the scale. A review of the data and literature available on the translation of ReQoL was conducted. The relevant literature was searched using electronic databases such as Medline, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect. The brief 10-item ReQoL has been translated into various Indian languages: Bengali, Gujarati, Hindi, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Odia, Punjabi, Tamil, and Telugu. The translation process has followed a structured method supported by clinicians, patients, and language experts. Specific focus was given to education level such that patients with primary or no formal education could comprehend the wordings. Cultural nuances and variations of expression were also looked into. There were a few words that needed extensive discussion and revision. The involvement of the patients and the incorporation of their feedback have improved the acceptability of the language versions. While there is a need for further clinical validation studies, the Indian language versions of the ReQoL scale appear suitable for clinical psychiatric practices and research.
    • Delusion of death in a patient with dementia: a case report

      Kar, Nilamadhab; Rath, Suresh Chandra; Kar, Shreyan (Wiley, 2023-10-31)
      The delusional belief one has died is a rare psychopathology. It has been described as a part of Cotard's syndrome and is associated with psychiatric and neurological illnesses. Here we present a case of a 97-year-old male patient who experienced this delusion with a background of long-standing dementia with hearing and vision impairment. There were no associated psychiatric symptoms. Ten days after the onset of the delusion he had a stroke and hemiplegia, and he passed away within a month. We discuss the presentation and analyse the related literature.
    • COVID-19 and the experience of mothers in perinatal psychiatry services: an explorative study in the UK

      Almas, Saima; Kar, Nilamadhab; Kennedy, Vanathi (Medknow Publications, 2023-09-29)
      Background/Objective: As the health services were reorganized during the COVID-19 restricting access to family caregivers, we explored the experience of women in the perinatal period, attending a specialist perinatal mental health service. Methods: Patients (n = 38) in the outpatient list for review were assessed over phone based on a predesigned, semi-structured questionnaire, comprising both quantitative (demographic, clinical variables) and qualitative open-ended questions regarding their experience of services during COVID-19. Results: The responses provided insight into how the pandemic affected the experience of pregnancy of mentally ill women and the impact of changes in perinatal mental health services. The main concerns centered around reduced support from close family members during the perinatal period due to the lockdown, anxiety regarding COVID transmission, absence of a supporting persons in antenatal clinics, difficulty accessing support from midwives, and health visitors as well as the use of virtual clinics for mental health consultations. Conclusions: The results suggested possible methods of improving perinatal mental health support during challenging times, which included ensuring in-person consultations, access to family even remotely, increasing accessibility through alternative means; providing and close monitoring of additional psychosocial support when needed.
    • A phenomenological inquiry of building and living in European Earthship homes

      Booth, Colin A.; Rasheed, Sona; Mahamadu, Abdul–Majeed; Horry, Rosemary; Abbey, Samuel; Manu, Patrick; Gyau Baffour Awuah, Kwasi; Aboagye-Nimo, Emmanuel; Georgakis, Panagiotis; Prabhakaran, Abhinesh (Emerald, 2023-11-23)
      Earthships remain a relatively under explored type of sustainable/alternative home. This is the first study to investigate the personal experiences of constructing and living in European Earthship-homes. The aim of this study is to reveal insights into the 'hands-on' practical experience of persons who have constructed their own Earthship-homes; and to also gather insights into the collective experience of these dwellers on the realities of living full-time in an Earthship-home. A phenomenological methodology, using an inductive research approach, was utilised through a qualitative research strategy to solicit insights into the personal experiences of these unique persons. The main themes and sub-themes that emerge from analysis are that anyone from any background can make the shift to building/living in an Earthship-home. However, a mixed skillset and knowledge of building trades, plus a physical and emotional prowess is needed for the long-haul build process, together with access to financial means and/or available materials are critical factors that influence the outcome of the Earthship building. Meanwhile, once constructed, off-grid living in an Earthship-home gives dwellers a greater connectivity with the natural world, raises awareness of consumerism and an enhanced appreciation of human impacts.
    • Identifying disability-related barriers to academic employment

      Levitt, Jonathan; Thelwall, Mike; Moreira, Felipe (Taylor & Francis, 2023-12-06)
      This study sought to increase understanding on barriers to securing academic employment met by people with disabilities. Lindsay and Fuentes (2022) pointed out the paucity of research on disability in academia. We surveyed over 5,000 authors of scholarly articles with “disab” in the title and with UK or USA academic email addresses. People with disabilities were asked to describe barriers they met, and people without disabilities to describe barriers they believed that people with disabilities faced. The responses were classified according to category of barrier. We found examples of 11 categories of barrier, indicating that a wide range of factors contribute to barriers to academic employment. The most common categories of barrier in responses by people with disabilities were attitudinal barriers, inadequate provision of reasonable adjustment, and excessive workload. Moreover, the frequencies of categories of barrier vary greatly with impairment. We consider the possible ramifications of our study for addressing the barriers to academic employment, the understanding the nature of disability and methodology. Our study is the first investigation of the relative frequencies of barriers to academic employment.
    • Melt pool monitoring and x-ray computed tomography-informed characterisation of laser powder bed additively manufactured silver–diamond composites

      Robinson, John; Arafat, Abul; Vance, Aaron; Arjunan, Arun; Baroutaji, Ahmad (MDPI, 2023-11-21)
      In this study, silver (Ag) and silver–diamond (Ag-D) composites with varying diamond (D) content are fabricated using laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF) additive manufacturing (AM). The L-PBF process parameters and inert gas flow rate are optimised to control the build environment and the laser energy density at the powder bed to enable the manufacture of Ag-D composites with 0.1%, 0.2% and 0.3% D content. The Ag and D powder morphology are characterised using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Ag, Ag-D0.1%, Ag-D0.2% and Ag-D0.3% tensile samples are manufactured to assess the resultant density and tensile strength. In-process EOSTATE melt pool monitoring technology is utilised as a comparative tool to assess the density variations. This technique uses in-process melt pool detection to identify variations in the melt pool characteristics and potential defects and/or density deviations. The resultant morphology and associated defect distribution for each of the samples are characterised and reported using X-ray computed tomography (xCT) and 3D visualisation techniques. Young’s modulus, the failure strain and the ultimate tensile strength of the L-PBF Ag and Ag-D are reported. The melt pool monitoring results revealed in-process variations in the build direction, which was confirmed through xCT 3D visualisations. Additionally, the xCT analysis displayed density variations for all the Ag-D composites manufactured. The tensile results revealed that increasing the diamond content reduced Young’s modulus and the ultimate tensile strength.
    • Influence of gradation in the reinforcement particles on the interfacial microstructure and mechanical properties of functionally graded composites

      Karakoç, Halil; Çinici, Hanifi; Saravana Kumar, M; Yılmaz, Tolga; Ovalı, İsmail; Yang, Che-Hua; Arjunan, Arun (Elsevier, 2023-11-27)
      In this research, Al6061 alloy-based Functionally Graded Composites (FGCs) were fabricated by hot pressing which is composed of 7 layers with different proportions of Al2O3 reinforcement particles. The addition of Al2O3 particles is gradually increasing in the other layers from top to bottom (Layer 1 - Pure Al6061 alloy, Layer 2–5 wt% Al2O3, Layer 3–10 wt% Al2O3, Layer 4–20 wt% Al2O3, Layer 5–30 wt% Al2O3, Layer 6–40 wt% Al2O3, Layer 7–50 wt% Al2O3). Moreover, three different Al2O3 particle sizes (8, 16 and 32 µm) were used to fabricate three sets of FGCs. Reciprocating wear studies were performed and the result shows that the FGC with 8 µm Al2O3 particle size shows 85.5% improved wear resistance. Further, various wear mechanisms were investigated and finally compressive strength analysis proved that the homogenous distribution of Al2O3 particles in the FGC with 16 µm Al2O3 particle size helps achieve the maximum compression stress of 476.04 MPa compared with other FGCs.
    • Why Toxicocalamus longhagen Roberts, Iova & Austin, 2022 (Serpentes, Elapidae) is a taxonomic nomen dubium

      Kraus, Fred; O'Shea, Mark; Kaiser, Hinrich (Magnolia Press, 2023-07-31)
      Roberts et al. (2022) presented a taxonomic decision, in which they proposed the species name longhagen for a single, poorly preserved specimen of elapid New Guinean snake in the species assemblage known as the Toxicocalamus loriae Group. Geographically widespread populations in this species group had long been united under a single name even though some character variation had been noted, and only a thorough morphological study by Kraus et al. (2022), published shortly after the description of T. longhagen, confirmed additional species-level diversity and the detail of character analysis needed to differentiate species in this group. Their work made clear that only examination of many specimens would allow an assessment of interspecific variation and species boundaries, and this had been explained to the authors of the Roberts et al. paper ahead of their manuscript submission. The authors of the Kraus et al. paper had examined the specimen used to diagnose T. longhagen, as well as a series of similar specimens, and found it impossible to make a reliable species-level determination. Our detailed evaluation of the taxon longhagen reveals that it is insufficiently differentiated from the now-known species of the T. loriae Group, that it cannot confidently be assigned to any of these species, and that none of the existing specimens of snakes in this group can be assigned to T. longhagen. It follows that T. longhagen as currently defined is a taxonomic nomen dubium. It will retain this status until such time when additional data or additional material can lead to a resolution of its taxonomy.
    • Efficacy and tolerance of antipsychotics used for the treatment of patients newly diagnosed with schizophrenia: a systematic review and meta-analysis

      Sherzad Qadir, Zina; Ball, Patrick; Morrissey, Hana (MDPI, 2023-11-10)
      This systematic review compared the efficacy and tolerance of oral antipsychotics (APDs) used in the treatment of schizophrenia following the PRISMA-P© statement (n = 21). The primary outcomes of interest were clinical response measured with symptoms’ improvement, tolerance to side effects and discontinuation reasons. There was better individual patients’ response to aripiprazole vs. ziprasidone and quetiapine ((CDSS p = 0.04), BPRS p = 0.02, YMRS p = 0.001) and ziprasidone vs. quetiapine (CGI p = 0.02, CDSS p = 0.02). Aripiprazole was more tolerated than risperidone, ziprasidone and quetiapine (p < 0.05). Quetiapine was more tolerated than aripiprazole, ziprasidone and risperidone (p < 0.05). Ziprasidone was more tolerated than quetiapine haloperidol and olanzapine (p < 0.05). Risperidone was more tolerated than olanzapine (p = 0.03) and haloperidol was more tolerated than olanzapine and quetiapine (p < 0.05). Olanzapine caused less discontinuation than quetiapine; quetiapine caused less discontinuation than ziprasidone, aripiprazole and haloperidol; ziprasidone caused less discontinuation than quetiapine, aripiprazole and haloperidol; aripiprazole caused less discontinuation than quetiapine, ziprasidone and olanzapine and olanzapine caused less discontinuation than ziprasidone and haloperidol (p < 0.05). It was concluded that individual patient clinical response, tolerance to side effects and life-threatening side effects remain the most reliable basis for selecting and continuing the use of APD.
    • A review on cooling systems for portable energy storage units

      Majd, Alireza Eslami; Tchuenbou-Magaia, Fideline Laure; Meless, Agnero M.; Adebayo, David Shina; Ekere, Nduka Nnamdi (MDPI, 2023-09-11)
      Achieving the global electricity demand and meeting the United Nations sustainable development target on reliable and sustainable energy supply by 2050 are crucial. Portable energy storage (PES) units, powered by solid-state battery cells, can offer a sustainable and cost-effective solution for regions with limited power-grid access. However, operating in high-dust and high-temperature environments presents challenges that require effective thermal management solutions. This paper is a comprehensive review of thermal management systems for PES units, with a specific focus on addressing the challenge of overheating in airtight designs. The review of various active and passive cooling systems is conducted through extensive study of the relevant literature, which is significant in providing insights into the operation, performance parameters, and design options for different cooling system technologies. The findings from this review show heat pipe (HP) technologies as key cooling-system solutions for airtight PES units. Specifically, loop and oscillating HPs, as well as the vapour chamber, offer desirable features such as compactness, low cost, and high thermal conductivity that make them superior to other alternatives for the cooling systems in PES. The insights and knowledge generated via this review will help facilitate the design and development of innovative, efficient, and reliable PES units, thereby contributing to the advancement of off-grid renewable energy applications and enabling sustainable power solutions worldwide. Furthermore, an appropriate design of PES units can help in reducing capital and maintenance costs.
    • Critical skills needs and challenges for STEM/STEAM graduates increased employability and entrepreneurship in the solar energy sector

      Amalu, Emeka H.; Short, Michael; Chong, Perk Lin; Hughes, David J.; Adebayo, David Shina; Tchuenbou-Magaia, Fideline Laure; Lähde, Petri; Kukka, Marko; Polyzou, Olympia; Oikonomou, Theoni I.; et al. (Elsevier, 2023-09-29)
      Energy produced by photovoltaic module (PVM) is poised to deliver the UN Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG-7) by 2030 and Net-Zero by 2050 but not until ample graduates with adequate Solar Energy Technology (SET) skills are produced by Higher education institutions (HEIs). Although PVM has witnessed significant penetration globally, the sustainability of the growth of the sector is challenged by attendant monotonic skilled labour shortages. The evolving growth imbalance is critical in the European Union (EU), limits her global competitiveness and necessitates the need to create wider awareness on the green technology to stimulate more production of solar energy sector (SES) specific skills graduates. Discussing the mismatch between the skills Europe needs and has in the SES, the study outlines key critical skills Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) cum Arts (STEAM) graduates ought to possess to secure sector employment and the challenges limiting them from acquiring the competencies. The review is conducted via extensive study of relevant literature, analysis of interviews and observations. Academic, industrial, and entrepreneurial skills are identified as critical SES needs. Designing and running educational modules/curricula that embed the identified solar technology specialist skills on students and learners are proposed as vehicle to increase their employability and entrepreneurship. This study profiles trends and developments in the SES for stakeholders’ increased awareness while presenting the specialist skills in-demand for employment in the sector. The adoption of SET Training (SETechTra) curricula/modules by the EIs will substantially increase the production of industry-ready graduates whilst decreasing the SES skills gap.
    • Challenges for the Uptake of Electric Vehicles in the UK: Written evidence from Dr Suresh Renukappa, Wahiba Erriadi, Dr Subashini Suresh, Professor Panagiotis Georgakis, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Wolverhampton (ELV0037)

      Renukappa, Suresh; Suresh, Subashini; Erriadi, Wahiba; Georgakis, Panagiotis (UK Parliament, 2023-11-01)
      Electric Vehicles (EVs) have the capacity and the potential to shift the world mobility habits and reduce the drastic transport related emissions. Recently, EVs have become the most plausible alternative to the current transportation system based on fossil fuels. Despite the rapid increase in the EVs market, the concept of this smart technology needs to be more accepted among the adopters in the UK by improving its overall attractiveness. Therefore, an evaluation of the status of EVs in the UK is required. This evidence explores potential challenges of EVs implementation in the UK that will improve and accelerate e-mobility transition. The findings are in the main, based on a thorough systematic literature review and semi-structured interviews with experts and consumers