Now showing items 1-20 of 7735

    • The evolution and implementation of Norway’s ultimate penalty: An exceptional approach to life imprisonment?

      Appleton, Catherine; Todd-Kvam, John; Dahl, Hilde; Johnsen, Berit; Whittington, Richard; Norwegian University of Science and Technology; Lithuanian Centre for Social Sciences; St Olavs University Hospital; University College of Norwegian Correctional Service; University of Chester (Cambridge University Press, 2025-04-07)
      Though formal life sentences have been abolished in Norway, forvaring (post-conviction indefinite preventive detention) – a type of informal life sentence – can be imposed on individuals convicted of certain offenses who are considered to be at high risk of future offending. While great attention has been paid to Norway as an “exceptional” penal outlier globally, there is a notable lack of comprehensive knowledge about its indefinite penal sanction. Drawing on extensive historical research and legal and policy documentary analysis as well as leveraging a unique national dataset on the total forvaring population, this article provides the first international in-depth assessment of the evolution and implementation of Norway’s ultimate penalty. In so doing, it highlights significant disparities between policy ambitions and current practice and questions the extent to which the sanction of forvaring can be considered an “exceptional” approach to life imprisonment. It is argued that the development and growth of this type of informal life sentence can be seen as the epicenter of the impact of a more punitive ideology in Norway, emphasizing the need to move away from the concept of penal exceptionalism to better understand the full spectrum and practice of Norwegian and Nordic penality.
    • The impact of 16–18 performance measures in a Sixth-form college: a teacher’s perspective on interpersonal relationships and teacher professional identity

      Johnson, Chris; University of Chester (Taylor and Francis, 2025-07-10)
      This research explores the impact of 16–18 Performance Measures on interpersonal relationships and teacher professional identity (TPI) within a sixth-form college. TPI is a dynamic construct shaped by individual experiences and social interactions. Interpersonal relationships, such as those with colleagues and management, play a crucial role in shaping TPI and influencing teacher retention. However, the increasing pressure of performance measures can negatively impact these relationships and, subsequently, TPI. This qualitative case study looks to explore the experiences of teachers working in a Sixth-Form college. Thematic analysis of semi-structured interview transcripts was used to identify key themes related to interpersonal relationships, performance measures, and TPI. The findings suggest that 16–18 Performance Measures can exacerbate tensions within the workplace, leading to strained relationships with management and a decline in teacher morale. These pressures can also erode TPI by limiting autonomy, creativity, and a sense of professional purpose. The study concludes by discussing the implications of these findings for educational policy and practice, highlighting the need for a more supportive and less target-driven approach to education.
    • Are leaders born or made? Can technological approaches assist the development and training of future leaders?

      Lambert, Steve; Rowlett, Debbie; Roberts Harper, Jennifer (University of Chester, 2025-01)
      The debate over whether leaders are born or made remains a persistent theme within academic literature. In an era shaped by rapid digitalisation and the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), new opportunities have emerged to advance both leadership theory and practice. This study explores the composition and development of leaders in society, with a particular focus on how technology, specifically AI, can enhance leadership learning and development. As digital technologies become increasingly integrated into all facets of life, this research addresses existing knowledge gaps by re-examining the longstanding debate on the origins of leadership. It uses this debate as a foundational analysis to assess the potential of AI in training and developing future leaders. The primary objective of this study is to investigate whether leaders are inherently born or developed through experience and learning, while simultaneously examining the role of AI as a tool for leadership training. By reviewing existing literature and assessing how technological tools can support leadership development, the study aims to contribute both to theoretical understanding and practical application. A Grounded Ethnography methodology was employed, gathering participant reflections from trials using the ChatGPT AI application to support leadership learning. This approach generated primary data on user experience and evaluated the feasibility of AI as a development tool. Additionally, Grounded Theory techniques were applied to analyse Likert scale responses measuring participants perceived growth in leadership knowledge through chatbot interactions. A total of 12 participants engaged in a series of questionnaires and a live AI chatbot session, providing insights into user experience, knowledge acquisition, and the practical application of AI in leadership development. Findings from this doctoral study suggest that AI chatbots can be effective, supportive tools for enhancing leadership knowledge. While the study does not definitively resolve whether leaders are born or made, it proposes that this debate may become increasingly irrelevant in the face of advancing technology. The capacity of AI to supplement or even reshape traditional leadership development models signals a shift in focus toward leveraging innovation for training. This research underscores the transformative impact of AI on leadership development. It demonstrates that AI can deliver scalable, cost-effective, and personalised training, tailored to individual strengths and learning needs. The study contributes to Theory by integrating AI with leadership and learning frameworks, notably enriching Cognitive Load Theory and operational leadership strategies. Practically, it introduces AI-driven, adaptive learning pathways that facilitate real-time feedback and reflection. As digitalisation and AI continue to evolve, this research offers future leaders access to global best practices and interdisciplinary knowledge, fostering more dynamic and responsive leadership development.
    • Mouth rinsing and ingesting unpleasant salty or bitter solutions after heavy-intensity cycling does not influence sprint performance or knee-extensor force in trained cyclists

      Gray, Edward A.; Cavaleri, Rocco; Siegler, Jason C.; University of Chester; Western Sydney University; Arizona State University (Human Kinetics, 2024-12-28)
      PURPOSE: The present study investigated the effect of unpleasant salty or bitter tastes on cycling sprint performance and knee-extensor force characteristics in different fatigue states. METHODS: Following a familiarization session, 11 trained male cyclists completed 3 experimental trials (salty, bitter, and water) in a randomized crossover order. In each trial, participants cycled at 85% of the respiratory compensation point for 45 minutes and then, after a 5-minute rest, completed a 1-minute sprint. Muscle-force characteristics were assessed using 2 knee-extensor maximal voluntary contractions immediately before, between, and after the cycling efforts. Participants mouth-rinsed and ingested 25 mL of test solution (salty, bitter, and water) immediately before each maximal voluntary contractions and the 1-minute sprint. RESULTS: There were no significant differences in mean and peak power output during the 1-minute sprint between conditions (mean power: 528 [71] W, 524 [70] W, and 521 [80] W in the water, salt, and bitter conditions, respectively). Muscle-force production was impaired in all conditions after the heavy-intensity cycling, evidenced by a decline in maximum force production (P = .01, effect size = 0.32) and 100- to 200-millisecond impulse (P = .04, effect size = 0.27). However, there were no significant differences between conditions in maximal force or impulse measures at rest or after exercise. CONCLUSION: These data question whether unpleasant tastes can influence muscle-force production and do not support that they may be used as an ergogenic aid for a cycling sprint performed under fatigued conditions.
    • Evidence-based nursing in action: A focused ethnographic case study of knowledge use in acute care

      Ominyi, Jude; Eze, Ukpai; Alabi, Adewale; Nwedu, Aaron; University of Suffolk; University of Chester; Coventry University; David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences, Nigeria (Elsevier, 2025-07-05)
      Introduction: Evidence-based practice (EBP) plays a crucial role in improving care outcomes in critical care settings. However, its integration into nursing practice remains challenging due to organisational hierarchies, workload pressures, and uneven access to formal knowledge. This study explores how critical care nurses access, use, and integrate knowledge, with a focus on how organisational culture, leadership, and team dynamics influence EBP implementation across two acute care sites in England. Methods: The study adopted a focused ethnographic design, guided by Spradley’s Developmental Research Sequence. Data were collected over eight months through 210 hours of non-participant observation, 36 semi-structured interviews, and document analysis. Analysis was supported using NVivo 12, applying iterative thematic coding. Reflexivity and member checking were used to ensure analytical rigour and trustworthiness. Results: Five central themes were identified: access to formal guidelines, the role of peer learning, organisational culture and hierarchy, the value of experiential knowledge, and barriers to EBP. While both sites demonstrated reliance on blended sources of knowledge, they differed in how organisational factors shaped access and engagement. Site A showed stronger support through mentorship, simulation-based learning, and active leadership. In contrast, Site B was marked by rigid structures and informal, inconsistent communication of evidence. Conclusion: Critical care nurses draw on both formal evidence and informal knowledge, but the conditions of their work environment influence how and when this knowledge is used. Investment in leadership, protected learning time, and inclusive communication practices is essential to support sustainable engagement with EBP in high-pressure settings.
    • “The want for independence!”: Factors influencing care preferences for older people living in a local authority in northwest England

      McSherry, Robert; Makhumula-Nkhoma, Nellie; Crompton, Rhian; Blain, Janet; Barnard, Jacob; Nolan, Damian; Kingston, Paul; University of Chester (Emerald, 2025)
      This paper reports a project evaluating public opinions regarding factors determining preferred place and type of care in older age. Design/methodology/approach: A service evaluation utilising appreciative inquiry and co-creation was conducted. Participants were recruited via convenience sampling from public places and care/support facilities. Data were captured utilising five methods: four innovative, creative approaches (Snap Judgement, 3-Word elicitation, Ideas Board, Scenarios) and a survey. Results were analysed thematically. Findings: There were 126 participants, in the study; the majority expressed a preference for care in their own home. Closeness to family and friends was the most important factor in choice, followed by cost. A wide variety of sources were identified to gain information about care. A desire was expressed for local community-based care options. Research limitations/implications: Findings suggest most people may prefer to remain at home as they age, emphasising importance of domiciliary care in maximising independence. Leveraging technology could aid this goal. Further application of the creative methods used is essential to determine their effectiveness and validity. Practical implications: Unless individuals plan for their care arrangements in older age, the location and type of care may be determined at point of need, with minimal or no input from individuals involved. This may result in people not receiving their preferred mode of care. Originality/value: Assisted by the local authority’s proactiveness in commissioning the project, researchers actively engaged with the public in a variety of settings. Innovative data collection methods enabled capture of rich data and data triangulation strengthened trustworthiness.
    • People and pets: Good for each other?

      Murray, Lindsay; University of Chester (MDPI, 2025)
      Editorial for special issue on relationships between people and their companion animals.
    • Implementing Evidence‐Based Practice in Critical Care Nursing: An Ethnographic Case Study of Knowledge Use

      Ominyi, Jude; Eze, Ukpai; Agom, David; Alabi, Adewale; Nwedu, Aaron; University of Suffolk; University of Chester; University of Bedfordshire; Coventry University; David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences (2025-07-04)
      Aim: To explore how critical care nurses access, negotiate and apply knowledge in high‐pressure clinical environments, focusing on organisational, cultural and leadership factors influencing evidence‐based practice implementation in acute hospital settings. Design: A focused ethnographic collective case study was conducted across two contrasting critical care units in England. Methods: Methods included non‐participant observation (56 sessions), semi‐structured interviews (36 participants) and document review. Spradley's Developmental Research Sequence guided data generation and analysis. Data were collected over an eight‐month period (February to September 2022). Findings: Five major themes were identified: sources of knowledge and acquisition strategies; institutional and hierarchical influences on knowledge use; role of experiential knowledge and clinical intuition; challenges to evidence‐based practice implementation; and strategies for integrating knowledge into practice. Organisational structures, leadership engagement, mentorship and access to updated digital resources were key enablers of evidence‐based practice. Barriers included workload pressures, inconsistent guideline dissemination and hierarchical cultures. Adaptive blending of formal evidence, clinical experience and intuition characterised effective knowledge negotiation at the bedside. Conclusion: Knowledge use in critical care nursing is a dynamic, relational process shaped by leadership, organisational culture and systemic pressures. The availability of evidence alone is insufficient; visible leadership, peer learning, protected educational time and valuing of experiential knowledge are critical to embedding evidence‐based practice into routine practice. Implications for Patient Care: Strengthening organisational systems, investing in nurse manager development, expanding simulation‐based learning and legitimising experiential knowledge are vital strategies to enhance evidence‐based critical care. Impact: This study provides actionable insights for healthcare leaders, educators and policymakers seeking to optimise evidence‐based practice adoption in high‐acuity clinical environments and improve patient outcomes. Reporting Method: The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research checklist guided reporting. No Patient or Public Involvement: Patients and the public were not involved in the design, conduct, reporting or dissemination of this research.
    • SCCS Opinion on Biphenyl-2-ol and Sodium 2-biphenylolate used in cosmetic products (CAS/EC No. 90-43-7/201-993-5 and 132-27-4/205-055-6)– SCCS/1669/24

      Bernauer (rapporteur), Ulrike; Bodin, Laurent; Chaudhry, Qasim; Coenraads, Pieter Jan; Ezendam, Janine; Gaffet, Eric; Galli, Corrado L.; Panteri, Eirini; Rogiers, Vera; Rousselle, Christophe; et al. (Elsevier, 2025-06-04)
      ‘Biphenyl-2-ol’ and ‘Sodium 2-biphenylolate’ (CAS/EC No. 90-43-7/201-993-5 and 132-27-4/205-055-6) are known with the INCI names ‘o-Phenylphenol’ and Sodium ‘o-Phenylphenate’, respectively, as cosmetic ingredients. The use of o-Phenylphenol as a preservative is currently authorised in entry 7 of Annex V to the Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No.1223/2009, with a maximum concentration of 0.15 % (as phenol) in leave-on and 0.2 % (as phenol) in rinse-off cosmetic products. The Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) adopted an opinion on o-Phenylphenol (OPP), Sodium o-Phenylphenate (SOPP), and Potassium o-Phenylphenate (POPP) (SCCS/1555/15) in June 2015, later revised on 15 December 2015, with the following conclusion: ‘Based on the information provided, no conclusions of safe use can be drawn for Sodium o-Phenylphenate and Potassium o-Phenylphenate’. In 2018, the SCCS released an addendum to the above scientific opinion, specifically addressing Sodium o-Phenylphenate, Potassium o-Phenylphenate, and MEA o-Phenylphenate. The SCCS concluded that ‘Due to the lack of relevant information, the SCCS is unable to answer the question regarding the safe use level of sodium-OPP, potassium-OPP, and MEA-OPP. In the SCCS's view, a direct comparison between the safety of o-Phenylphenate (OPP) and its three compounds cannot be made’. The conclusions of this opinion resulted in amending entry 7 of Annex V to the Cosmetics Regulation, removing from the list the previously authorised OPP salts. It should be noted that o-Phenylphenol, Sodium and Potassium o-Phenylphenate are active ingredients in broad-spectrum fungicides surface biocides. Under EU biocidal Regulation (EU) 528/2012, o-Phenylphenol has been evaluated for the different product types (PTs) such as PT 1, PT 2, PT4, PT 6 as a preservative ranging from 0.1 to 0.5 % w/w. The European Risk Assessment Committee (RAC) of ECHA issued in December 2022 an opinion recommending among others a classification for o-Phenylphenol as ‘Carcinogen of Category 2’. Following the RAC opinion, the European Commission may propose a classification for o-Phenylphenol as a ‘Carc.2’ (CLP Regulation Annex VI entry). According to Article 15(1) of the Cosmetics Regulation ‘the use in cosmetic products of substances classified as CMR substances, of category 2, under Part 3 of Annex VI to Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 shall be prohibited. However, a substance classified in category 2 may be used in cosmetic products where the substance has been evaluated by the SCCS and found safe for use in cosmetic products’. In view of these provisions, regulatory measures must be adopted by the Commission services within 15 months of the classification as CMR 1A or 1B of the substance(s) concerned in Part 3 of Annex VI to Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008. In December 2023, the Commission services received a dossier to defend the safe use of o-Phenylphenol, as well as its sodium salt (CAS/EC No. 90-43-7/201-993-5 and 132-27-4/205-055-6) as preservatives in cosmetic products according to Article 15(1) of the Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009. The Commission, therefore, requests the SCCS to carry out a safety assessment on these ingredients in view of the information provided.
    • Gathering Young Children’s Unfiltered Thoughts about Disability

      Hamilton, Paula (2025-06-10)
      Webinar presented to Virginia University Center for Excellence in Disabilities & Pediatrics. Aim: to examine children’s early understandings of disability and consider approaches that early year’s and primary/elementary practitioners can use to engage children in discussions around concepts of disability.
    • How much History is in the Passion Narratives? Violence, Ideology, Historicity, and the Seditious Jesus Hypothesis

      Middleton, Paul; University of Chester (Brill, 2025-06-30)
      This article reviews Fernando Bermejo-Rubio’s monograph, They Suffered under Pontius Pilate: Jewish Anti-Roman Resistance and the Crosses at Golgotha (2023). This book is the latest publication arguing for the ‘seditious Jesus’ hypothesis, the idea that Jesus was an armed revolutionary. It is argued that the volume rightly critiques some theological tendency in New Testament scholarship to downplay or ignore violence inherent in the Jesus tradition, but the argument that the men crucified with Jesus were either some of his disciples or sympathetic to his violent cause fails to convince. Despite arguing for historical minimalism in relation to the Gospel material, Bermejo-Rubio builds his case on the material he judges to be historical, but that is better explained by the imagination of the evangelists.
    • Refugees: An examination of the Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder NICE guidelines

      Sansom, Hannah; University of Chester (Elsevier, 2025-06-30)
      The aim of this review is to consider whether the NICE guidelines for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can appropriately guide professionals in meeting the needs of refugees, through evaluation, assessment and treatment. In particular, the limited consideration for culture within the guidelines is explored. Of key importance is that the NICE guidelines are based on the diagnostic model of PTSD, which may fail to appreciate the broader ways in which refugees may understand their traumatic experiences, and wish to address the impacts. Furthermore, there is a clear gap in literature concerning PTSD treatment for refugees (Lee & Bowles, 2023). Arguably, this brings into question the validity of the treatment recommendations within the NICE guidelines, for refugees. More broadly, within the global context, the application of western-based mental disorders has been disputed based on the cultural, and philosophical differences, varying interpretations of life and different traditions in relation to expressing distress and seeking support (Summerfield, 2013). This paper suggests that the NICE guidelines fail to consider the depth and complexity of the role of culture within trauma and recommend insufficient flexibility with regards to the mode of treatment delivery, including a lack of consideration for native and culturally grounded methods of intervention.
    • A Reassessment of the Galli and the Archigalli of Magna Mater, their Differences and their Citizen Status in Rome

      Cavanagh, Chris; University of Chester (Cambridge University Press, 2025)
      Academics have regularly debated the question of how the Galli, priests of Magna Mater/Cybele, fit into the Roman social milieu. Several have argued that membership of the Galli was restricted to foreign citizens only (citing Domitian’s legislation) whilst others have argued that the chief priests—the Archigalli—were Roman citizens, while the ‘lower’ Galli were non-citizens, thus separating both within the Cybele cult. These views remain prevalent in modern discussions on the cult, and have not undergone significant scrutiny or analysis. By assessing these views and the existing material and literary evidence for the Galli, this article argues that the Archigalli and Galli were indistinct in terms of behaviour and affiliation. Moreover, this article uses archaeological and literary evidence to suggest that the Galli most likely included Roman citizens among their members, contrasting with the prevailing view of them as foreign residents in Rome.
    • Utilizing a Delphi Panel Approach to co-create the PROTECtoolkit designed to safeguard care home staff and residents during pandemics

      McSherry, Robert; Blain, Janet; Kumah, Elizabeth; Jones, Steven; Vernon, Martin; Loynes, Katie Mansfield; Adamson, Jayne; University of Chester; Halton Borough Council; Tameside and Glossop Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust (Wolters Kluwer Health, 2025-06-30)
      CONTEXT: The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in upward of seven million deaths worldwide. In the United Kingdom, the Government was unprepared for the pandemic, which was especially evident in the care home sector, where thousands of residents lost their lives. AIMS: This research addressed the need for care homes to have robust, user-friendly solutions to planning for, and reacting to, infectious disease outbreaks. The intention was to develop a toolkit to safeguard residents, staff, and others visiting care homes. DESIGN AND METHODS: The research adopted an appreciative inquiry approach that involved working collaboratively with stakeholders. A scoping review identified relevant information and informed the development of the Toolkit. A Delphi panel of relevant experts was established to co-create and develop the PROTECToolkit. An online survey captured the experience of nurses working in care homes during the pandemic. The prototype toolkit was feasibility tested by care home staff. RESULTS: In addition to refining the content of the Toolkit, the scoping review demonstrated that co-creation in the care sector improves safety and quality of care. The survey revealed how care homes strengthened infection prevention and control and addressed challenges. The Delphi panel quickly reached a consensus on the online survey and Toolkit contents, with feasibility testing confirming the Toolkit content while highlighting issues regarding completion. CONCLUSIONS: The collaborative approach to developing the Toolkit resulted in a user-friendly instrument that is relevant to practice. The Toolkit offers an adaptable framework for use alongside existing safety and quality metrics to plan for, and address, infectious disease outbreaks in care homes. The Toolkit also empowers nurses working in care homes to identify good practices and where improvements are needed.
    • Association between 2D landing biomechanics, isokinetic muscle strength and asymmetry in females using novel, task specific metrics based on ACL injury mechanisms

      Oxendale, Chelsea; Smith, Grace; Liverpool John Moores University; University of Chester (Public Library of Science, 2025-07-01)
      This study investigated the relationship between isokinetic muscle strength metrics, landing biomechanics, and their asymmetries, in females. Twenty-three female team sport athletes completed unilateral forward drop landings, and isokinetic muscle strength assessment of the knee extensors and flexors, on both limbs. Discrete two-dimensional kinematics of the trunk, hip, knee, and ankle in the sagittal and frontal plane and peak GRF were recorded during the drop landings. Novel, task-specific isokinetic strength metrics related to the landing task, such as peak concentric and eccentric torque, angle specific torque (AST), functional range and traditional/functional ratios were quantified. Asymmetry for kinematic and muscle strength data were quantified based on the individual variability of the task and the population mean and smallest worthwhile change. Functional concentric flexor range explained 15–18% of the variance in peak frontal trunk (P = 0.003) and hip motion (P = 0.007) and 22% in peak frontal knee motion (P = 0.005), when combined with the functional flexion ratio. Peak eccentric extensor torque explained 13–14% of the variance in peak sagittal hip (P = 0.014) and knee (P = 0.009) motion. Asymmetry in concentric extensor AST explained 28% of the variance in peak knee frontal plane asymmetry (P = 0.010), however the direction of asymmetry was rarely present on the same side for kinematic and strength variables. Novel and task specific isokinetic strength metrics explained small but significant variances in sagittal and frontal plane landing kinematics and asymmetry, which have previously been related to ACL injury risk.
    • The Mental Health Bill (2025) for England and Wales: Professional and carer consensus statement summarising concerns and unintended consequences from proposed changes to autism and learning disability

      Beazley, Peter; Alexander, Regi T.; Taylor, John L.; Velani, Bharat; Dewson, Helen; Shankar, Rohit; Tromans, Samuel J.; Odiyoor, Mahesh M.; Hassiotis, Angela; Roy, Ashok; et al. (Cambridge University Press, 2025-07-01)
      The Mental Health Bill, 2025, proposes to remove autism and learning disability from the scope of Section 3 of the Mental Health Act, 1983 (MHA). The present article represents a professional and carer consensus statement that raises concerns and identifies probable unintended consequences if this proposal becomes law. Our concerns relate to the lack of clear mandate for such proposals, conceptual inconsistency when considering other conditions that might give rise to a need for detention and the inconsistency in applying such changes to Part II of the MHA but not Part III. If the proposed changes become law, we anticipate that detentions would instead occur under the less safeguarded Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards framework, and that unmanaged risks will eventuate in behavioural consequences that will lead to more autistic people or those with a learning disability being sent to prison. Additionally, there is a concern that the proposed definitional breadth of autism and learning disability gives rise to a risk that people with other conditions may unintentionally be unable to be detained. We strongly urge the UK Parliament to amend this portion of the Bill prior to it becoming law.
    • Assessment of the impact of the revised National E-Waste Framework on the informal E-Waste sector of Nigeria

      Odeyingbo, Olusegun A.; Deubzer, Otmar K.; Ogunmokun, Oluwatobi A.; Technische Universität Berlin; Sustainable SCYCLE, United Nations Institute for Training and Research; University of Chester (MDPI, 2025-06-12)
      E-Waste management in Nigeria remains predominantly informal, with unlicensed collectors focusing on extracting valuable materials, primarily for export. Despite policy interventions, including the revised 2022 E-Waste framework and the Global Environment Facility (GEF) project, which introduced collection centers in Lagos and bolstered Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), progress has been uneven. This comparative longitudinal study examined informal E-Waste processing practices over a six-year period (2017–2023) to evaluate the impact of these initiatives. Using a mixed-methods approach, including content analysis and field interviews with informal collectors, government officials, and NGOs, our findings reveal that profit is the primary motivator for informal collectors, while E-Waste fractions that are not considered profitable are often discarded in environmentally harmful ways. The findings indicate persistent noncompliance with regulations and stagnant or declining income levels for informal collectors. The revised 2022 regulation resulted in a significant increase in registrations, with EPRON recording its highest number of producers, with 39 in total, including 25.6% renewals and 74.4% new registrations. Although the revised framework and EPR efforts have achieved limited success, critical gaps in implementation and outreach remain, with minimal improvements in collectors’ awareness of health and environmental risks. This study underscores the need for targeted training and financial incentives to redirect E-Waste flows toward formal channels, thereby more effectively safeguarding the environment and wellbeing.
    • Living amongst and with trees: Botanical agency and the archaeology of plant-human relationships

      Taylor, Barry; University of Chester (Taylor & Francis, 2025-06-24)
      The last decade has seen a significant change in the way the humanities have approached the study of botanical life. Termed ‘the plant turn’, this questions traditional views of plants as a largely passive form of life, seeing them instead as living beings capable of acting upon and with other elements of the world. This paper argues that such a perspective offers significant potential for the archaeological study of human-plant relationships. Using a case-study on the lives of trees and humans at the early Mesolithic settlement at Star Carr (UK) it shows that by viewing plants as active participants in past worlds we can achieve a richer understanding of both non-human and human life, and the complex ways they interacted with each other. It also suggests that by making more of this approach, archaeology can help address our own, contemporary relationship with the botanical world.
    • Are we witnessing a revolution of the Italian citizenship regime? Postscript to the special issue

      Tuorto, Dario; Bargel, Lucie; Bottecchia, Giordano; Donati, Sabina; Gargiulo, Enrico; Rigo, Enrica; Sredanovic, Djordje; Trucco, Daniela; Université Côte d’Azur; Université Paris 8; Université de Genève; Università di Torino; Università Roma Tre; University of Chester; Université Libre de Bruxelles; Università di Bologna (Taylor & Francis, 2025-06-05)
      While we were completing this special issue, in spring 2025, three possible changes to the Italian citizenship law developed that could lead to a deep transformation in the way Italian citizenship has been historically ruled and produce multiple effects on the citizenship/mobility nexus. We therefore felt the need to acknowledge them through adding this collective post-script, even if it is too early to provide a comprehensive in-depth analysis.
    • Harried and stressful or hurried and rewarding? A study of young Norwegians’ active leisure lives

      Johansen, Patrick Foss; Green, Ken; Thurston, Miranda; Universitetet i Innlandet (University of Inland Norway); University of Chester (Taylor & Francis, 2025-06-17)
      Amidst the backdrop of a ‘speed-up society’, this study examines how youngsters navigate their discretionary time while juggling educational demands, social networks, family obligations, and leisure activities. Through semi-structured interviews with 41 sports-active Norwegian youngsters, the study analysed their leisure activities and experiences of time pressure. The findings revealed that, contrary to perceptions of a harried existence, young Norwegians generally perceived their busy leisure lives to be rewarding rather than stressful. Their engagement in active leisure, especially sports, was seen as a counterbalance to the stresses of educational demands. Leisure, it seems, acted as an enclave for mental and physical recreation, aiding in managing school-related stress. Their ongoing involvement in sport underscore the importance of early life experiences in shaping youths’ leisure choices. It also serves to remind us of the potential for busy leisure lives to be experienced as hurried and rewarding rather than straightforwardly harried and stress-inducing.