A new European Women in Sport (E-WinS) project seeks to address issues specific to women in sport, such as the impact of menstruation and hormone-based contraception on performance. UK football clubs are invited to participate in an online survey and focus groups to share best practices.
The conference on April 24, 2021, will examine the development of communities in virtual environments. The event brings together researchers and practitioners from various disciplines to discuss connections between academia, culture, and people.
The event aims to explore connections, camaraderie, and visibility within digital communities, considering their development, growth, and real-world interactions. The conference features keynote speakers, special guests, and a wide range of submissions from various media forms.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that patients with rheumatoid arthritis in remission display significantly higher temperatures in the forefoot regions compared to healthy adults. The research used thermal imaging to analyze temperature patterns in over 31 patients and more than 52 healthy individuals.
A new study by Staffordshire University found that the Pastoral da Pessoa Idosa (PPI) programme in Brazil supported 164,000 older people during the pandemic. Volunteers provided home visits and practical help, helping to mitigate the impact of COVID-19.
Researchers investigate the specific challenges faced by BAME business owners during COVID-19, finding that adaptability and evolution were crucial for survival. BAME-owned retail businesses that adapted to social distancing and new technologies fared better than those that didn't.
The Dementia Friendly Church programme has had a significant impact, improving interactions between church attendees and people with dementia. The project involves making practical changes to church layouts, worship, and hospitality to create 'friendly spaces' for those living with dementia.
Scientists have developed a simple clinical test, the 'enhanced paper grip test,' to assess lower limb strength and predict falls. The test shows reliability and validity in detecting muscle weakness in patients with diabetes.
Researchers from Staffordshire University found that optimised cushioning in diabetic footwear can significantly reduce plantar pressure, leading to ulcers and painful complications. The study used made-to-measure 3D-printed insoles to change the stiffness of the sole, finding a clear relationship between BMI and optimal stiffness.
Researchers at Staffordshire University have developed an orthotics breakthrough that fine-tunes splints for children with cerebral palsy, reducing their energy usage while increasing mobility and speed. The study found significant improvements in hip and pelvic function, knee extension, and overall quality of life.
Geographers from Staffordshire University developed virtual landscape visualizations to assess Welsh countryside quality. Over 70% of respondents were satisfied with the realism and representativeness of these digital landscapes, which could engage younger audiences in landscape assessments.
Researchers used thermal imaging to assess rheumatoid arthritis, finding increased palm and finger temperatures in patients. The study suggests thermal imaging could aid in early detection of the disease, which affects over 400,000 adults in the UK.
Researchers at Staffordshire University are using artificial aquatic ecosystems called limnotrons to test plastic degradation and develop a standardized method for identifying the age of plastics. The study will help identify effective mitigation and management strategies for reducing plastic pollution in freshwater systems.