Crucial Knowledge Research Articles

Improving staff retention in the research and development department sections of NHS hospitals in the United Kingdom: A systematic review

Background: This study undertook a comprehensive examination of the imperative task of improving staff retention within the National Health Service (NHS) Research and Development (R&D) sector in the UK. The motivation stemmed from the observed decline in staff retention over the years, posing a significant threat to the continuity of healthcare research and innovation. Aim: The primary objective of this systematic review was to elucidate impactful measures aimed at enhancing staff retention within NHS R&D. The study recognized the critical role of sustained staff commitment in preventing disruptions to research projects, ensuring efficient resource utilization, and maintaining the retention of crucial knowledge, research quality, and impact. The overarching aim was to mitigate the potential hindrances to the progress of medical advancements. Method: Conducted as a systematic review, the study employed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) reporting checklist. The research followed the Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome (PICO) format to frame research questions systematically. A meticulous search and screening process was employed to identify relevant studies, and data synthesis methods were utilized to draw meaningful conclusions from the selected literature. Conclusion: The study concluded by emphasizing the critical need to address staff retention issues within NHS R&D sections. The systematic review supported a comprehensive and tailored approach, urging the NHS to invest in its researchers, create a supportive work environment, and prioritize the physical and mental well-being of staff. By implementing these evidenced-based strategies, the NHS can effectively enhance the retention of its research talent, thereby fostering ongoing healthcare innovation and improvement. The findings presented in this study contribute to a detailed understanding of staff retention issues within R&D sections, providing a valuable foundation for future initiatives in this crucial domain.

Climate tipping point interactions and cascades: a review

Abstract. Climate tipping elements are large-scale subsystems of the Earth that may transgress critical thresholds (tipping points) under ongoing global warming, with substantial impacts on the biosphere and human societies. Frequently studied examples of such tipping elements include the Greenland Ice Sheet, the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), permafrost, monsoon systems, and the Amazon rainforest. While recent scientific efforts have improved our knowledge about individual tipping elements, the interactions between them are less well understood. Also, the potential of individual tipping events to induce additional tipping elsewhere or stabilize other tipping elements is largely unknown. Here, we map out the current state of the literature on the interactions between climate tipping elements and review the influences between them. To do so, we gathered evidence from model simulations, observations, and conceptual understanding, as well as examples of paleoclimate reconstructions where multi-component or spatially propagating transitions were potentially at play. While uncertainties are large, we find indications that many of the interactions between tipping elements are destabilizing. Therefore, we conclude that tipping elements should not only be studied in isolation, but also more emphasis has to be put on potential interactions. This means that tipping cascades cannot be ruled out on centennial to millennial timescales at global warming levels between 1.5 and 2.0 ∘C or on shorter timescales if global warming surpassed 2.0 ∘C. At these higher levels of global warming, tipping cascades may then include fast tipping elements such as the AMOC or the Amazon rainforest. To address crucial knowledge gaps in tipping element interactions, we propose four strategies combining observation-based approaches, Earth system modeling expertise, computational advances, and expert knowledge.

Environmental drivers of flowering in the genus Zostera and spatio‐temporal variability of Zostera muelleri flowering in Australasia

Abstract Seed‐based seagrass restoration strategies demand precise understanding of the environmental drivers influencing flowering. Flowering varies across diverse spatial and temporal scales, yet environmental drivers' effects on these dynamics have received less attention. Lack of knowledge regarding this life‐history stage limits the advancement of seed‐based restoration efforts, especially the establishment of shore‐based seagrass nurseries to enhance seed production. A systematic literature review on the flowering of the genus Zostera was conducted to develop a conceptual model that links influential environmental drivers with flowering. Additionally, a case study using existing survey data supplemented by additional field surveys was designed to explore the spatio‐temporal variability of flowering along the latitudinal gradient in Australasia for the species Zostera muelleri. Predictive models for flowering times were developed using regional climatic variables, following hypotheses generated from long‐term mesocosm observations. The review identified the direct and/or indirect effects of temperature, light, tidal variation, nutrients, salinity and grazing pressure on flowering dynamics. Four categories of flowering variables were identified based on their implications on restoration, namely, timing, abundance, the ratio between reproductive and vegetative growth and morphological characteristics. The spathe densities varied significantly among sites along the latitudinal gradient. While first (r2 = 0.71) and peak (r2 = 0.68) flowering times showed significant correlation with latitude, first flowering was equally predicted by mean winter air temperature and mean winter solar radiation (r2 = 0.73), whereas peak flowering time was best predicted by mean winter air temperature (r2 = 0.60). Accurate predictions of flowering times can improve conservation outcomes by enabling restoration practitioners to forecast flowering times and subsequent wild seed harvesting. The strong correlation between flowering times and climatic variables suggests future shifts in flowering times under climate change are likely, which is crucial knowledge for maintaining the contribution of restoration projects to seagrass conservation.

Reinvigorating the process of contractor selection in adaptive reuse projects: a novel decision-making and evaluation paradigm

Adaptive reuse projects reconfigure and revitalize existing buildings to enact an alternative purpose, diverging from the original design intent. The study introduces a novel decision-making framework that adopts the Ordinary Priority Approach (OPA) based on the integrated Relative Performance Index (RPI) for selecting and appraising contractors in adaptive reuse projects. Current methodologies lack criteria and assessment approaches tailored to the prototypical challenges of adaptive reuse projects, compelling special knowledge, skills, structural design considerations, sustainable methods, and prudent resource conservation. Accordingly, this research aims to 1) Identify and evaluate primary Contractor Selection Criteria (CSc) and their sub-criteria influencing contractor choice for adaptive reuse; 2) Rank sub-CSc using the Relative Importance Index (RII); 3) Assign weights to sub-CSc via the OPA, and 4) Examine the contractors’ performance using the RPI method. By offering this framework, this paper enhances and empowers decision-making processes to opt for contractors with the requisite expertise and competencies for successful adaptive reuse projects, filling a crucial knowledge gap. Six contractors were selected to assess the feasibility and validate the proposed framework. Among the chosen contractors, numbers 2, 4, and 5 exhibited significant performance concerning the top-ranked sub-CSc, registering RPI values of 1, 0.88, and 0.86, respectively.

Unraveling potential mechanism of different metal ions effect on anammox through big data analysis, molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation

Heavy metals (HMs) have been widely reported to pose an adverse effect on anaerobic ammonia oxidation (anammox) bacteria, yet the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. This study provides new insights into the potential mechanisms of interaction between HMs and functional enzymes through big date analysis, molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation. The statistical analysis indicated that 10 mg/L Cu(II) and Cd(II) reduced nitrogen removal rate (NRR) by 85% and 43%, while 5 mg/L Fe(II) enhanced NRR by 29%. Additionally, the results of molecular simulations provided a microscopic interpretation for these macroscopic data. Molecular docking revealed that Hg(II) formed a distinctive binding site on ferritin, while other HMs resided at iron oxidation sites. Furthermore, HMs exhibited distinct binding sites on hydrazine dehydrogenase. Concurrently, the molecular dynamics simulation results further substantiated their capacity to form complexes. Cu(II) displayed the strongest binding affinity with ferritin for −1576 ± 79 kJ/mol in binding free energy calculation. Moreover, Cd(II) bound to ferritin and HDH for −1052.67 ± 58.49 kJ/mol, −290.02 ± 49.68 kJ/mol, respectively. This research addressed a crucial knowledge gap, shedding light on potential applications for remediating heavy metal-laden industrial wastewater.

Self‐ignition of forest soil samples demonstrated through hot storage tests

AbstractThe increasing threat of forest fires on a global scale is not only a matter of concern due to the potential harm they may cause to both human and animal life but also due to their significant role in exacerbating climate change. In light of these circumstances, one might inquire as to whether forest soil can self‐ignite and, if so, under what conditions and at what temperatures this phenomenon may occur. This question is being addressed in the German pilot “Fire science of wildfires and safety measures” of the EU project TREEADS, and the first results are presented below. The importance of basic research into the self‐ignition of forest soil cannot be underestimated, as it provides crucial knowledge to prevent forest fires and protect human and animal health. Furthermore, mitigating the occurrence of forest fires can also play a role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to global efforts to combat climate change. The procedure of the hot storage test is an effective means of determining whether a material can self‐ignite. During the investigation of six soil samples, it was found that five of them were indeed capable of self‐ignition. In addition to determining whether the material ignites, the modified hot storage test also analyzed the resulting smoke gases and measured their concentration. The research question of whether regional forest soil is capable of self‐ignition can be answered with yes based on these initial tests. Further experiments are needed to determine if self‐ignition causes forest fires.

RNA-binding proteins in cardiovascular biology and disease: the beat goes on.

Cardiac development and function are becoming increasingly well understood from different angles, including signalling, transcriptional and epigenetic mechanisms. By contrast, the importance of the post-transcriptional landscape of cardiac biology largely remains to be uncovered, building on the foundation of a few existing paradigms. The discovery during the past decade of hundreds of additional RNA-binding proteins in mammalian cells and organs, including the heart, is expected to accelerate progress and has raised intriguing possibilities for better understanding the intricacies of cardiac development, metabolism and adaptive alterations. In this Review, we discuss the progress and new concepts on RNA-binding proteins and RNA biology and appraise them in the context of common cardiovascular clinical conditions, from cell and organ-wide perspectives. We also discuss how a better understanding of cardiac RNA-binding proteins can fill crucial knowledge gaps in cardiology and might pave the way to developing better treatments to reduce cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.

Research on Differences in Knowledge Demand of Sustainability Learning of Teams in Mega Engineering Construction Project in China

Knowledge plays a vital role in achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs) in construction industry. According to the view of organization learning, heterogeneous teams have heterogeneous core knowledge. The main aim of this study is to explore the differences in demand for sustainability learning knowledge (SLK) among the mega engineering construction project (MECP) teams, which has important implications for improving the performance of team learning and achieving SDGs in MECPs. This study followed a research design that included identifying SLK and the stakeholder teams that needed SLK and investigating the respondents’ perception of the level of demands for SLK through semistructured interviews and survey questionnaires executed in China. The statistical test results indicated that there were some significant differences in demands for some SLK among the MECP teams and MECPs. All types of MECP teams had a common high demand for SLK on environment, safety, and health in China. This study contributes to research on sustainable construction in MECPs in two main ways: (1) it reveals novel insights related to the integration of SL into the MECPs sustainable construction practices for developing countries and (2) it offers the possibility for practitioners to identify the most crucial knowledge and focus their efforts and resources efficiently.

Cross-Domain Mutual-Assistance Learning Framework for Fully Automated Diagnosis of Primary Tumor in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma.

Accurate T-staging of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) holds paramount importance in guiding treatment decisions and prognosticating outcomes for distinct risk groups. Regrettably, the landscape of deep learning-based techniques for T-staging in NPC remains sparse, and existing methodologies often exhibit suboptimal performance due to their neglect of crucial domain-specific knowledge pertinent to primary tumor diagnosis. To address these issues, we propose a new cross-domain mutual-assistance learning framework for fully automated diagnosis of primary tumor using H&N MR images. Specifically, we tackle primary tumor diagnosis task with the convolutional neural network consisting of a 3D cross-domain knowledge perception network (CKP net) for excavated cross-domain-invariant features emphasizing tumor intensity variations and internal tumor heterogeneity, and a multi-domain mutual-information sharing fusion network (M2SF net), comprising a dual-pathway domain-specific representation module and a mutual information fusion module, for intelligently gauging and amalgamating multi-domain, multi-scale T-stage diagnosis-oriented features. The proposed 3D cross-domain mutual-assistance learning framework not only embraces task-specific multi-domain diagnostic knowledge but also automates the entire process of primary tumor diagnosis. We evaluate our model on an internal and an external MR images dataset in a three-fold cross-validation paradigm. Exhaustive experimental results demonstrate that our method outperforms the state-of-the-art algorithms, and obtains promising performance for tumor segmentation and T-staging. These findings underscore its potential for clinical application, offering valuable assistance to clinicians in treatment decision-making and prognostication for various risk groups.

Universities and institutionalization of regional innovation policy in peripheral regions: Insights from the smart specialization in Portugal

Regional innovation policies are currently influenced by a series of territorial innovation models, with the regional innovation system (RIS) approach being one of the prominent examples. The rationale of smart specialization strategies (S3s) is deeply influenced by the RIS concept and highlights the importance of entrepreneurial discovery and shared governance by different types of actors. Among them, universities are seen as crucial for the success of S3 design and implementation. This article, mixing a policy debate perspective with analysis of recent quantitative and qualitative information about the Portuguese case, highlights relevant aspects for understanding the institutionalization of regional innovation and the role universities have in it as crucial knowledge brokers. The results have implications for regional innovation policies and in particular for the challenges that peripheral regions face.

A qualitative evaluation of a student midwife placement teaching English to speakers of other languages (ESOL).

A shortage of UK midwives has put pressure on clinical placements and supervision of student midwives. Alternative placement solutions are needed to provide students with meaningful learning experiences. One such learning experience was a placement undertaken by student midwives who attended a program teaching English to speakers of other languages (ESOL). This study evaluated the impact of the placement on student midwife learning and experiences of the ESOL participants. The 2022 study employed a qualitative design using Kolb's model of experiential learning as a framework. Ten student midwives placed with the ESOL program and three women enrolled in the program participated. Data were collected via online focus groups with the student midwives and a face-to-face focus group with the women. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis and Kolb's model of experiential learning. Four themes were constructed: 'Putting the scripts aside: expectations versus the reality of being an educator', 'Adapting and personalizing teaching', 'We are learning too: an environment for mutual learning', and 'Taking our learning forwards'. Students faced barriers during their placement and had to adapt their teaching accordingly. They gained crucial knowledge of the challenges faced by women who speak other languages. The women valued the students' input and together they forged a reciprocal learning environment. This study demonstrates how placing student midwives in a unique non-maternity setting has benefits for student learning which are transferrable to future practice. Importantly, it confirms that quality of learning during a novel placement is not compromised for students or participants.

A role of nurse e-prescription in GPs’ time reorganization

The digitization of Polish health care began before 2000, but recent years, especially the period of the COVID pandemic, accelerated it. The basis of the digital ecosystem of medical services is the e-health system P1. P1 consists of digital services: e-prescription, e-referral, DMR, and applications: Internet Patient Account, MojeIKP, office.gov.pl, as well as solutions improving the processes of planning and implementing health care services.
 One of the most popular e-tools used in medical services is the e-prescription. It was first issued in 2018, and since 2020 it has been a permanent element of e-services. Its advantages are, for example:
 -accelerating and facilitating the process of issuing prescriptions,
 -ensuring the correctness of issuing an e-prescription,
 -this prescription cannot be lost, because it is ""in the patient's phone"" and on his electronic account
 -the doctor has an access to all e-prescriptions filled by the patient
 -it enables the National Health Fund to keep accurate statistics on issued and dispensed prescriptions
 Since January 2016, nurses and midwives in Poland have had the right, with some restrictions, to prescribe basic medicines (on their own) and to continue prescription medicines ordered by a doctor, with the exception of narcotics and psychotropic drugs. That has given an easier access to certain health services for Polish patients.
 Currently, both e-prescriptions and the nurse prescribing, as a systemic solution, allow Polish doctors for saving their time and spending it more effectively on the complex needs of their patients. 
 The aim of this study is to present the data of nursing prescribing as well as to show how nurse e-prescription influences the time saving by doctors.
 The study is based on the statistical data and the initial simulation was carried in Medical and Diagnostic Center LTD. An in-depth analysis may deliver crucial knowledge not only for single doctors, but also health managers and politicians.
 
 The study covers the years 2016-2022 and answers the following research questions:
 1.How many e-prescriptions have been issued since the implementation of the e-prescription by doctors and nurses/midwives?
 2.How has nursing prescription evolved due to digitalization – comparative study of statistical data
 3.How many nurses do regularly issue e-prescriptions (at least once a month)?
 4.What is the possibility of saving time by the doctors when prescription visits are carried out by nurses?
 5.What challenges do e-prescriptions face as a tool that serves the medical personnel, patients and the whole health system?

Historical Development of Military Sites and Their Impact on Urban and Rural Land Use in the European Context

This study explores the historical development of military sites and their impact on land use in the European context. Reflecting broader social, political, and technological changes, the impact of military sites on urban and rural areas has undergone a notable transformation. By employing qualitative research methods, this study investigates demilitarisation challenges, transformations, and the integration of military sites into urban environments. It reveals societal perceptions, regulatory complexities, and spatial dynamics, thereby illuminating the potential of repurposing military sites for sustainable urban development. It uncovers the interplay between the military and civilian spheres through nuanced analysis, offering valuable insights into modern city development strategies. As this research unveils historical dynamics, it also provides crucial knowledge that can be employed in planning the future development of cities, considering the evolving relationship between military and urban spaces.

Environmental risk of ion-absorbed rare earth ores: concentration of leaching agent and fractionation of Pb.

Rare earth (RE) is an important strategic resource; however, there has been a growing concern about the environmental problems caused by RE mining, such as ammonia nitrogen pollution and heavy metal pollution. There is a limited research about the behavior of leaching agents and the fractionation of RE and heavy metal during the mining process for ion adsorption of rare earth ore (IRE-ore) in the previously available papers. In this study, (NH4)2SO4 solution, which commonly used in the production of mining IRE-ore, was used as a leaching agent. The adsorption behavior of ore soils on ammonium ions was explored by batch experiments. The adsorption process of IRE-ore on ammonium ions followed a pseudo-second-order equation and was controlled by the kinetics of surface adsorption and intra-particle diffusion; the ammonium ion adsorption isotherm conformed to the Freundlich isotherm equilibrium equation, and the higher concentration advantage made the ore soils possess a higher adsorption capacity of ammonium ion. In addition, the fractionation characteristics of lanthanum (La), cerium (Ce), and lead (Pb) in the ore soil during the leaching process were simulated based on the batch and column leaching experiments. The results demonstrated that the exchangeable states of La and Ce in IRE-ore were high, and the exchangeable, carbonate-bound La and Ce were almost all leached out by (NH4)2SO4 leaching agent, while the most of exchangeable Pb flowed out along with leaching agent, and a small amount of leached Pb in the ore soil was converted to iron and manganese oxide-bound Pb and enriched in the direction of migration of the leaching solution, and when the environment (e.g., pH and Eh) changed, this part of Pb may be re-activated. Our research might serve as crucial baseline knowledge for the adsorption of ammonium ions by ore soils, and provide a data reference for reducing the use of leaching agents and developing sustainable technologies for green mining of ion-adsorption RE ores.

Digitization of Precipitation

In addressing the challenges posed by outdated and insufficiently documented urban drainage, irrigation, and storm systems, this study aims to revolutionize urban infrastructure through digitalization. Leveraging insights from 25 invited experts representing various organizations, including highway committees, city administration, and city improvement departments, the research focuses on the city of Tashkent. Employing geodesic methodologies, the team meticulously documented the locations and conditions of underground facilities, utilizing city maps and visual aids provided by specialists. The resulting digital database, curated by geodesists, identifies responsible personnel, object types, and areas requiring attention. This innovative initiative not only fills crucial knowledge gaps but also lays the foundation for enhanced maintenance strategies and resource optimization, offering a paradigm shift in urban planning and management. Highlights: Comprehensive Digital Mapping: The study employs advanced geodesic techniques to create a detailed digital map of aging drainage, irrigation, and storm systems, offering a comprehensive overview of their current conditions. Knowledge Integration from Diverse Experts: Gathering insights from 25 experts across various organizations, the research consolidates valuable information on underground facilities, enabling a holistic understanding of the urban infrastructure challenges. Strategic Resource Optimization: The resulting digital database not only identifies critical maintenance areas but also assigns responsibility, paving the way for strategic resource allocation and efficient urban infrastructure management. Keyword: Urban Infrastructure, Digitalization, Drainage Systems, Geodesic Mapping, Resource Optimization

Unlocking Therapeutic Potential: A Comprehensive Exploration of FDA-Approved Sirolimus similars for Perivascular Epithelioid Cell Tumor Treatment through Transcriptomic Insight, Structural Integration, and Drug-Drug Similarity Analysis with Cavity-Guided Blind Docking

This research delves into precision medicine for Perivascular epithelioid cell tumors (PEComa), focusing on the repositioning potential of FDA-approved sirolimus similars. Integrating transcriptomic insights and structural analyses, the study identifies analogs with notable similarities to established PEComa treatments. Structural refinement enhances our understanding of drug-target interactions, revealing potential binding sites through cavity detection. Blind docking elucidates interaction patterns and affinities, highlighting sirolimus similars as promising candidates for precision therapy in PEComa. This comprehensive approach contributes crucial knowledge for the effective use of these heliomycins in PEComa treatment, opening avenues for further experimental and clinical exploration.

Realizing High-Performances Sb Anodes for K-Ion Batteries

Alloy anodes have long been considered promising alternatives to carbon counterparts for high-energy K-ion batteries (KIBs) as they could uptake several ions per K atom through alloying reactions, delivering exceptional capacities at low voltage. However, alloy electrodes usually undergo severe volume expansion upon large K ion insertion, which will trigger the pulverization of active particles and the breakage of solid electrolyte interphase (SEI), leading to rapid capacity degradation. Instead of fabricating nanostructured materials, novel electrolyte formulations can be used to realize stable cycling of high-capacity anodes in KIBs. Sb is a promising low-cost anode material for KIBs, possessing a high theoretical capacity of 660 mAh g-1 at average voltage of about 0.5V toward K+/K. However, it shows rapid capacity degradation in conventional carbonate-based electrolytes. To stabilize the Sb anodes, novel ether-based KIB electrolytes are designed to replace the conventional ones, enabling a high reversible capacity over 180 cycles. It is found that a thinner and amorphous SEI, with abundant oligomer-like species, is built in ether base electrolytes. Such SEI is more elastic, and can effectively wrap the Sb particles to accommodate repeated volumetric changes, and preventing copious electrolytes decomposition. These findings allow us to develop crucial fundamental knowledge to design ideal SEIs for stabilizing alloy anodes to boost the energy densities of today’s alkali-metal ion batteries.

Distribution and Usage of Digital Payment Cards in India: Findings from NSS 77th Round Survey

Promoting digital economy is a policy priority of the Government of India. The latest available large-scale survey data on households’ debt and investment from National Sample Survey Organization (NSSO, 2021) provides details on the possession and utilization of payment cards for adults across India. Using the information, this article explores the state and district-level variations in its distribution and usage in India—which is a crucial knowledge gap in the existing literature. The article finds that while 85% of Indian adults have a bank account, less than half of them have a debit or credit card. Also, 82% of card-holders have actually used their cards for transactions during 365 days prior to the survey. Access to payment cards seems crucial for digital integration. This article attempts to identify policy handles that can help in the spread of payment cards. Their possession is aggregated at district levels and regressed on several indicators. The article identifies that literacy rate, access to banking, road density, prevalence of Self-Help Groups and Co-operative Credit Societies are all significant positive influencers towards digital integration. A similar result is obtained for the usage of payment cards as well. This article comes up with a first glimpse of digital integration at the pan-India level while also providing some policy suggestions for enhancing cashless transactions in India.

Physicochemical studies of some bioactive molecules in aqueous solution of tetrabutylammonium methanesulphonate (TBAMS) to investigate assorted molecular interaction at different temperatures simultaneously optimized by computational approach

Aqueous tetrabutylammonium methanesulphonate (TBAMS) solvent was used to solubilize the simplest stable amino acid (AA) Glycine and protein maker amino acid (AA) L-Alanine, and their solution behaviour has been meticulously examined to explore how they interact under various temperature conditions, using parameters like density (ρ), viscosity (η), surface tension (σ), and electrolytic conductivity. 1H NMR was also performed to verify further the mode of interactions prevailing in the solution, which is further supported by the DFT study. This research primarily aims to understand the interactions between biologically significant TBAMS and important amino acids in aqueous solutions, with potential implications for the pharmaceutical field. These results are anticipated to contribute crucial foundational knowledge for grasping the influence of sugar alcohols on the stability of protein structures.

Microplastic pollution on historic facades: Hidden ‘sink' or urban threat?

Despite the increasing concerns surrounding the health and environmental risks of microplastics (MPs), the research focus has primarily been on their prevalence in air and the oceans, consequently neglecting their presence on urban facades, which are integral to our everyday environments. Therefore, there is a crucial knowledge gap in comprehending urban MP pollution. Our pioneering interdisciplinary study not only quantifies but also identifies MPs on historic facades, revealing their pervasive presence in a medium-sized urban area in the UK. In this case study, we estimated a mean density of 975,000 fibres/m^2 (0.10 fibres/mm^2) for fibre lengths between 30 and 1000 μm with a ratio of 1:5 for natural to artificial fibres.Our research identifies three groups of fibre length frequencies across varied exposure scenarios on the investigated urban facade. Sheltered areas (4m height) show a high prevalence of 60–120 μm and 180–240 μm fibres. In contrast, less sheltered areas at 3m exhibit lower fibre frequencies but similar lengths. Notably, the lowest area (2-1.5m) features longer fibres (300–1000 μm), while adjacent area S, near a faulty gutter, shows no fibres, highlighting the impact of exposure, altitude, and environmental variables on fibre distribution on urban facades.Our findings pave one of many necessary paths forward to determine the long-term fate of these fibres and provoke a pertinent question: do historic facades serve as an urban ‘sink’ that mitigates potentially adverse health impacts or amplifies the effects of mobile microplastics? Addressing MP pollution in urban areas is crucial for public health and sustainable cities. More research is required to understand the multi-scale factors behind MP pollution in large cities and to find mitigation strategies, paving the way for effective interventions and policies against this growing threat.