Best practice for supporting students in the workplace.

We investigated the academic performance of distance-taught student Paramedics and the effect of workplace support measures offered by their employers. Using a combination of quantitative, qualitative and open text data, we identified factors important for student success and well-being. Dedicated study time was not a significant predictor of student success, but was related to the quality of achievement as measured by pass grade. More important for success were less tangible factors such as relationship with a mentor, and being part of a supportive peer group. It is important to accord prominence to these features, and to build them into new course design. Care must also be taken that placements elsewhere be well organised, and students proactively supported while undertaking them

Development of a 3D coculture system to study adipocyte and lymph node cell interactions

We have developed a long term 3-dimensional coculture system with adipocytes and lymph node cells for the purpose of investigating interactions between these cells in vitro. Present experimental work with the culture system is aimed at introducing lymph node cells, in proportions similar to those found in intact lymph nodes, among differentiated adipocytes and observing interactions and the establishment of a spatial relationship between them. Co-cultures will be used to investigate the lymph node adipocyte interactions following immune stimulation (lipopolysaccharide treatment) measuring production of inflammatory mediators (cytokines) and lipolytic activity

Support and services for parents : a review of practice development in Scotland

Three year national evaluated pilot intended to focus on systems and practice for the operation of Parenting orders