Showing papers by "Auckland University of Technology published in 2009"
TL;DR: A more progressive resource for sample-based studies, meta-analyses, and case studies in sports medicine and exercise science is presented, and forthright advice on controversial or novel issues is offered.
Abstract: Statistical guidelines and expert statements are now available to assist in the analysis and reporting of studies in some biomedical disciplines. We present here a more progressive resource for sample-based studies, meta-analyses, and case studies in sports medicine and exercise science. We offer forthright advice on the following controversial or novel issues: using precision of estimation for inferences about population effects in preference to null-hypothesis testing, which is inadequate for assessing clinical or practical importance; justifying sample size via acceptable precision or confidence for clinical decisions rather than via adequate power for statistical significance; showing SD rather than SEM, to better communicate the magnitude of differences in means and nonuniformity of error; avoiding purely nonparametric analyses, which cannot provide inferences about magnitude and are unnecessary; using regression statistics in validity studies, in preference to the impractical and biased limits of agreement; making greater use of qualitative methods to enrich sample-based quantitative projects; and seeking ethics approval for public access to the depersonalized raw data of a study, to address the need for more scrutiny of research and better meta-analyses. Advice on less contentious issues includes the following: using covariates in linear models to adjust for confounders, to account for individual differences, and to identify potential mechanisms of an effect; using log transformation to deal with nonuniformity of effects and error; identifying and deleting outliers; presenting descriptive, effect, and inferential statistics in appropriate formats; and contending with bias arising from problems with sampling, assignment, blinding, measurement error, and researchers' prejudices. This article should advance the field by stimulating debate, promoting innovative approaches, and serving as a useful checklist for authors, reviewers, and editors.
6,467 citations
TL;DR: A systematic review of population-based studies of the incidence and early (21 days to 1 month) case fatality of stroke is based on studies published from 1970 to 2008 as mentioned in this paper.
Abstract: This systematic review of population-based studies of the incidence and early (21 days to 1 month) case fatality of stroke is based on studies published from 1970 to 2008. Stroke incidence (incident strokes only) and case fatality from 21 days to 1 month post-stroke were analysed by four decades of study, two country income groups (high-income countries and low to middle income countries, in accordance with the World Bank's country classification) and, when possible, by stroke pathological type: ischaemic stroke, primary intracerebral haemorrhage, and subarachnoid haemorrhage. This Review shows a divergent, statistically significant trend in stroke incidence rates over the past four decades, with a 42% decrease in stroke incidence in high-income countries and a greater than 100% increase in stroke incidence in low to middle income countries. In 2000-08, the overall stroke incidence rates in low to middle income countries have, for the first time, exceeded the level of stroke incidence seen in high-income countries, by 20%. The time to decide whether or not stroke is an issue that should be on the governmental agenda in low to middle income countries has now passed. Now is the time for action.
2,389 citations
TL;DR: The notion of a high-performance work system (HPWS) constitutes a claim that there exists a system of work practices for core workers in an organisation that leads in some way to superior performance as mentioned in this paper.
Abstract: The notion of a high-performance work system (HPWS) constitutes a claim that there exists a system of work practices for core workers in an organisation that leads in some way to superior performance. In this article, we dissect this fuzzy notion and examine its companion terminology: high-involvement work systems and high-commitment management. We argue that a focus on the high-involvement stream usefully grounds HPWS studies in an important area of workplace change in the current context and takes us away from eclectic and contentious selections of ‘best practices’. We review research models and findings in this stream. The path to better research lies in examining the underpinning processes experienced by workers when management seeks to pursue high-involvement systems, and charting their links to employee and operational outcomes.
857 citations
TL;DR: Analysis of injury descriptions for ACLS injuries indicated that 58% involved a non-contact mechanism of injury, which underscores the high level of short-term disability associated with knee ligament injuries, especially ACL injuries that require surgery.
660 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, a study on Malaysia showed that only a negligible portion of Islamic bank financing is strictly profit-and-loss sharing (PLS) based and that Islamic deposits are not interest-free, but are closely pegged to conventional deposits.
Abstract: A unique feature of Islamic banking, in theory, is its profit-and-loss sharing (PLS) paradigm. In practice, however, we find that Islamic banking is not very different from conventional banking. Our study on Malaysia shows that only a negligible portion of Islamic bank financing is strictly PLS based and that Islamic deposits are not interest-free, but are closely pegged to conventional deposits. Our findings suggest that the rapid growth in Islamic banking is largely driven by the Islamic resurgence worldwide rather than by the advantages of the PLS paradigm and that Islamic banks should be subject to regulations similar to those of their western counterparts.
531 citations
TL;DR: Ethnic differences in fat distribution, muscularity, bone mass and leg length may contribute to ethnic-specific relationships between body fatness and BMI.
Abstract: Although there is evidence that Asian Indians, Polynesians and Europeans differ in their body fat (BF)-BMI relationships, detailed comparative analysis of their underlying body composition and build characteristics is lacking. We investigated differences in the relationships between body fatness and BMI, fat distribution, muscularity, bone mineral mass, leg length and age-related changes in body composition between these ethnic groups. Cross-sectional analysis of 933 European, Maori, Pacific Island and Asian Indian adult volunteers was performed for total and percentage of BF, abdominal fat, thigh fat, appendicular muscle mass, bone mineral content and leg length measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Asian Indian men and women (BMI of 24 and 26 kg/m2, respectively) had the same percentage of BF as Europeans with a BMI of 30 kg/m2 or Pacific men and women with BMI of 34 and 35 kg/m2, respectively. Asian Indians had more fat, both total and in the abdominal region, with less lean mass, skeletal muscle and bone mineral than all other ethnic groups. Leg length was relatively longer in Pacific men and Asian and Pacific women than in other ethnic groups. In Asian Indians, abdominal fat increased with increasing age, while the percentage of BF showed little change. In the other ethnic groups, both abdominal and total BF increased with age. In conclusion, ethnic differences in fat distribution, muscularity, bone mass and leg length may contribute to ethnic-specific relationships between body fatness and BMI. The use of universal BMI cut-off points may not be appropriate for the comparison of obesity prevalence between ethnic groups.
399 citations
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TL;DR: In this paper, a cognitive appraisal model that portrays trust and emotions as key mediators in the relationship between perceived justice and customer loyalty is proposed. But the model is limited to positive and negative emotions.
Abstract: Existing research shows that loyalty is a function of customer perceptions of trust following service recovery. The authors propose a cognitive appraisal model that portrays trust and emotions as key mediators in the relationship between perceived justice and customer loyalty. A structural equation model was used to test the conceptual model. The findings support the conjecture that emotions and trust have important mediating roles during the service recovery process. Furthermore, while existing research has focused primarily on negative emotion, the authors' model adopts a two-dimensional view of emotion (positive and negative emotions), and the results support the inclusion of both dimensions. Overall, the empirical support for the proposed model has important managerial implications for effective relationship management. By understanding the important mediating roles of trust and emotion, service employees can deliver more effective service recovery strategies and thereby enhance customer loyalty.
364 citations
TL;DR: It is demonstrated that a plyometric program within regular soccer practice improved explosive actions of young players compared to conventional soccer training only.
Abstract: In soccer, explosive actions such as jumping, sprinting, and changes of direction are essential to optimal performance not only in adults, but also in children's games. The purpose of the present investigation was to determine the influence of a short-term plyometric training within regular soccer practice on explosive actions of early pubertal soccer players during the in-season. Fourteen children (13.3 +/- 0.6 years) were selected as the training group (TG) and 11 children (13.1 +/- 0.6 years) were defined as the control group (CG). All children were playing in the same league and trained twice per week for 90 minutes with the same soccer drills. The TG followed an 8-week plyometric program (i.e., jumping, hurdling, bouncing, skipping, and footwork) implemented as a substitute for some soccer drills to obtain the same session duration as CG. At baseline and after training, explosive actions were assessed with the following 6 tests: 10-meter sprint, agility test, 3 vertical jump tests (squat jump [SJ], countermovement jump [CMJ], contact test [CT] and multiple 5 bounds test [MB5]). Plyometric training was associated with significant decreases in 10-m sprint time (-2.1%) and agility test time (-9.6%) and significant increases in jump height for the CMJ (+7.9%) and CT (+10.9%). No significant changes in explosive actions after the 8-week period were recorded for the CG. The current study demonstrated that a plyometric program within regular soccer practice improved explosive actions of young players compared to conventional soccer training only. Therefore, the short-term plyometric program had a beneficial impact on explosive actions, such as sprinting, change of direction, and jumping, which are important determinants of match-winning actions in soccer performance.
261 citations
TL;DR: Evidence indicated that older adults can significantly improve their aerobic power, lower body muscle endurance, strength and flexibility, balance, agility, and gait through dancing and suggested that dancing might improve older adults' lower body bone-mineral content and muscle power.
Abstract: Dancing is a mode of physical activity that may allow older adults to improve their physical function, health, and well-being. However, no reviews on the physical benefits of dancing for healthy older adults have been published in the scientific literature. Using relevant databases and keywords, 15 training and 3 cross-sectional studies that met the inclusion criteria were reviewed. Grade B-level evidence indicated that older adults can significantly improve their aerobic power, lower body muscle endurance, strength and flexibility, balance, agility, and gait through dancing. Grade C evidence suggested that dancing might improve older adults' lower body bone-mineral content and muscle power, as well as reduce the prevalence of falls and cardiovascular health risks. Further research is, however, needed to determine the efficacy of different forms of dance, the relative effectiveness of these forms of dance compared with other exercise modes, and how best to engage older adults in dance participation.
252 citations
TL;DR: It is concluded that natural LHTL currently provides the best protocol for enhancing endurance performance in elite and subelite athletes, while some artificial protocols are effective in subelites and erythropoietic and other physiological mediators provided little additional insight into mechanisms.
Abstract: Adaptation to living or training in hypoxic environments (altitude training) continues to gain interest from sport scientists and endurance athletes. Here we present the first meta-analytic review of the effects on performance and related physiological measures following adaptation to six protocols of natural or artificial hypoxia: live-high train-high (LHTH), live-high train-low (LHTL), artificial LHTL with daily exposure to long (8–18 hours) continuous, brief (1.5–5 hours) continuous or brief (<1.5 hours) intermittent periods of hypoxia, and artificial live-low train-high (LLTH). The 51 qualifying studies provided 11–33 estimates for effects on power output with each protocol and up to 20 estimates for effects on maximal oxygen uptake ( . VO2max) and other potential mediators. The meta-analytic random-effect models included covariates to adjust for and estimate moderating effects of study characteristics such as altitude level and days of exposure. Poor reporting of inferential statistics limited the weighting factor in the models to sample size. Probabilistic inferences were derived using a smallest worthwhile effect on performance of 1%. Substantial enhancement of maximal endurance power output in controlled studies of subelite athletes was very likely with artificial brief intermittent LHTL (2.6% ;9 0% confidence limits –1.2%), likely with LHTL (4.2%; –2.9%), possible with artificial long continuous LHTL (1.4; –2.0%), but unclear with LHTH (0.9; –3.4%), artificial brief continuous LHTL (0.7%; –2.5%) and LLTH (0.9%; –2.4%). In elite athletes, enhancement was possible with natural LHTL (4.0%; –3.7%), but
239 citations
TL;DR: This pilot study demonstrated the critical role of considering obesity as well as rigorous preventive and periodontal care in trials designed to reduce cardiovascular risk.
Abstract: Background- In the Periodontitis and Vascular Events (PAVE) pilot study periodontal therapy was provided as an intervention in a secondary cardiac event prevention model through five coordinated cardiac-dental centers. Methods- Subjects were randomized to either community care or protocol provided scaling and root planing to evaluate effects on periodontal status and systemic levels of high-sensitivity Creactive protein (hs-CRP). Results- After 6 months there was a significant reduction in mean probing depth and extent of 4- or 5-mm pockets. However there were no significant differences in attachment levels bleeding upon probing or extent of subgingival calculus comparing subjects assigned to protocol therapy (n = 151) to those assigned to community care (n = 152). Using intent-to-treat analyses there was no significant effect on serum hs-CRP levels at 6 months. However 48% of the subjects randomized to community care received preventive or periodontal treatments. Secondary analyses demonstrated that consideration of any preventive or periodontal care (i.e. any treatment) compared to no treatment showed a significant reduction in the percentage of people with elevated hs-CRP (values >3 mg/l)at 6 months. However obesity nullified the periodontal treatment effects on hs-CRP reduction. The adjusted odds ratio for hs-CRP levels >3 mg/l at 6 months for any treatment versus no treatment among non-obese individuals was 0.26 (95%confidence interval: 0.09 to 0.72) adjusting for smoking marital status and gender. Conclusion- This pilot study demonstrated the critical role of considering obesity as well as rigorous preventive and periodontal care in trials designed to reduce cardiovascular risk. Originally published Journal of Periodontology Vol. 80 No. 2 Feb 2009
TL;DR: The results of a six month study of the relative effectiveness of providing thirty-nine low intermediate ESL learners in Auckland, New Zealand with three different direct written corrective feedback options suggest the provision of error correction alone may be sufficient for learners at a low intermediate proficiency level.
TL;DR: A review and analysis of CSR studies from the emerging economy perspective is presented in this paper, where the authors have identified some important future research questions and identified the most relevant research questions.
Abstract: Purpose – Previous reviews of Corporate Social Reporting (CSR) literature have tended to focus on developed economies. The aim of this study is to extend reviews of CSR literature to emerging economies. Design/methodology/approach – A desk-based research method, using a classification framework of three categories. Findings – Most CSR studies in emerging economies have concentrated on the Asia-Pacific and African regions and are descriptive in nature, used content analysis methods and measured the extent and volume of disclosures contained within the annual reports. Such studies provide indirect explanation of the reasons behind CSR adoption, but of late, a handful of studies have started to probe managerial motivations behind CSR directly through in-depth interviews finding that CSR agendas in emerging economies are largely driven by external forces, namely pressures from parent companies, international market and international agencies. Originality/value – This is the first review and analysis of CSR studies from the emerging economy perspective. Following this analysis, the authors have identified some important future research questions.
TL;DR: In this paper, the inhibitory effects of cinnamon stick, oregano, clove, pomegranate peel and grape seed extracts on Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella enterica were evaluated in raw pork at room temperature.
Abstract: BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to find natural spice and herb extracts with antibacterial and antioxidant capacities that could be potentially used as natural preservatives in raw pork.
RESULTS: The inhibitory effects of cinnamon stick, oregano, clove, pomegranate peel and grape seed extracts on Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella enterica were evaluated in raw pork at room temperature (∼20 °C). The influences of these extracts on lipid oxidation in the meat were also investigated. The pH, colour parameters and TBARS (thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances) values were tested periodically. The results showed that all five natural extracts, especially clove, were effective against the bacteria. During storage the colour parameters of the extract-treated pork samples changed slightly, in comparison with significant changes in the control. Treatments with these extracts increased the stability of raw pork against lipid oxidation. Clove was the most effective for retarding lipid oxidation and presented the highest antioxidant activity in raw pork.
CONCLUSION: This study suggests that the tested extracts, especially clove, have potential as natural preservatives to reduce numbers of pathogenic bacteria, colour degradation and lipid oxidation in raw pork. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
TL;DR: This study complements existing research by providing a richer understanding of several skills that were narrowly defined and by introducing two new skill categories that had not been previously discussed (personal integrity and team development).
Abstract: Although effective project management is critical to the success of information technology (IT) projects, little empirical research has investigated skill requirements for IT project managers (PMs). This study addressed this gap by asking 19 practicing IT PMs to describe the skills that successful IT PMs exhibit. A semi-structured interview method known as the repertory grid (RepGrid) technique was used to elicit these skills. Nine skill categories emerged: client management, communication, general management, leadership, personal integrity, planning and control, problem solving, systems development and team development. Our study complements existing research by providing a richer understanding of several skills that were narrowly defined (client management, planning and control, and problem solving) and by introducing two new skill categories that had not been previously discussed (personal integrity and team development). Analysis of the individual RepGrids revealed four distinct ways in which study participants combined skill categories to form archetypes of effective IT PMs. We describe these four IT PM archetypes – General Manager, Problem Solver, Client Representative and Balanced Manager – and discuss how this knowledge can be useful for practitioners, researchers and educators. The paper concludes with suggestions for future research.
Ohio State University1, Massey University2, Nagoya University3, University of Notre Dame4, University of Canterbury5, Victoria University of Wellington6, Konan University7, University of Auckland8, University of Manchester9, College of Industrial Technology10, Chungbuk National University11, Korea Astronomy and Space Science Institute12, Auckland University of Technology13, University of Warsaw14, University of Concepción15, University of Cambridge16
TL;DR: In this article, the authors reported the detection of the cool, Jovian-mass planet MOA-2007-BLG-400Lb in a high-magnification microlensing event.
Abstract: We report the detection of the cool, Jovian-mass planet MOA-2007-BLG-400Lb. The planet was detected in a high-magnification microlensing event (with peak magnification A max = 628) in which the primary lens transited the source, resulting in a dramatic smoothing of the peak of the event. The angular extent of the region of perturbation due to the planet is significantly smaller than the angular size of the source, and as a result the planetary signature is also smoothed out by the finite source size. Thus, the deviation from a single-lens fit is broad and relatively weak (approximately few percent). Nevertheless, we demonstrate that the planetary nature of the deviation can be unambiguously ascertained from the gross features of the residuals, and detailed analysis yields a fairly precise planet/star mass ratio of , in accord with the large significance () of the detection. The planet/star projected separation is subject to a strong close/wide degeneracy, leading to two indistinguishable solutions that differ in separation by a factor of ~8.5. Upper limits on flux from the lens constrain its mass to be M < 0.75 M ? (assuming that it is a main-sequence star). A Bayesian analysis that includes all available observational constraints indicates a primary in the Galactic bulge with a mass of ~0.2-0.5 M ? and thus a planet mass of ~0.5-1.3 M Jup. The separation and equilibrium temperature are ~5.3-9.7 AU (~0.6-1.1 AU) and ~34 K (~103 K) for the wide (close) solution. If the primary is a main-sequence star, follow-up observations would enable the detection of its light and so a measurement of its mass and distance.
TL;DR: In this paper, a combined data set of 34 problem gambling surveys conducted in Australia and New Zealand since 1991 was used to examine the relationship between the availability of electronic gaming machines (EGMs) and the prevalence of problem gambling.
Abstract: It is widely believed that greater availability of electronic gaming machines (EGMs) has led to increases in problem gambling prevalence and related harms. It has also been proposed that individuals and populations adapt to exposure over time and that prevalence rates plateau or decline, even in the face of increasing availability. This study examines both hypotheses using a combined data set of 34 problem gambling surveys conducted in Australia and New Zealand since 1991. Strong statistically meaningful relationships were found for an increase in prevalence with increasing per capita density of EGMs, consistent with the access hypothesis and supported by no evidence of plateauing of prevalence with increasing density of EGMs. A decrease in prevalence over time with availability held constant is also evident, partially consistent with adaptation. It is likely that both forces are at work simultaneously, with implications for appropriate policy responses to gambling harm minimisation.
TL;DR: It is shown that QEA can dynamically adapt the learning speed leading to a smooth and robust convergence behavior and manipulates more complex distributions of solutions than with a single model approach leading to more efficient optimization of problems with interacting variables.
Abstract: The quantum-inspired evolutionary algorithm (QEA) applies several quantum computing principles to solve optimization problems. In QEA, a population of probabilistic models of promising solutions is used to guide further exploration of the search space. This paper clearly establishes that QEA is an original algorithm that belongs to the class of estimation of distribution algorithms (EDAs), while the common points and specifics of QEA compared to other EDAs are highlighted. The behavior of a versatile QEA relatively to three classical EDAs is extensively studied and comparatively good results are reported in terms of loss of diversity, scalability, solution quality, and robustness to fitness noise. To better understand QEA, two main advantages of the multimodel approach are analyzed in details. First, it is shown that QEA can dynamically adapt the learning speed leading to a smooth and robust convergence behavior. Second, we demonstrate that QEA manipulates more complex distributions of solutions than with a single model approach leading to more efficient optimization of problems with interacting variables.
TL;DR: To fulfil the vision of the founders of the discipline, occupational scientists must develop a new strand of research and scholarship dedicated to generating knowledge of occupation itself, rather than people's engagement in it.
Abstract: This article proposes that to fulfil the vision of the founders of the discipline, occupational scientists must develop a new strand of research and scholarship dedicated to generating knowledge of occupation itself, rather than people's engagement in it. The goal is to inform both occupational science and therapy by providing knowledge of the occupations people strive to engage in and their impact and importance. Such investigations would encompass the capacities, knowledge and skills required for participation; who participates and what is done; the rules, norms or processes governing participation; where and when participation occurs, using what resources; the regularity, duration, tempo and steps involved; the history of an occupation; its function and outcomes; the kinds of meanings it holds; its sociocultural, political, economic, geographic and historical context, and how occupations influence health. Ethical responsibilities in generating this body of knowledge are outlined, including dispelling n...
01 Jan 2009
TL;DR: Current available evidence regarding diagnosis and treatment of SIJ disorders is presented and a combination of test findings could be used in research to evaluate the efficacy of specific treatments for SIJ pain.
Abstract: Sacroiliac joint (SIJ) pain refers to the pain arising from the SIJ joint structures. SIJ dysfunction generally refers to aberrant position or movement of SIJ structures that may or may not result in pain. This paper aims to clarify the difference between these clinical concepts and present current available evidence regarding diagnosis and treatment of SIJ disorders. Tests for SIJ dysfunction generally have poor inter-examiner reliability. A reference standard for SIJ dysfunction is not readily available, so validity of the tests for this disorder is unknown. Tests that stress the SIJ in order to provoke familiar pain have acceptable inter-examiner reliability and have clinically useful validity against an acceptable reference standard. It is unknown if provocation tests can reliably identify extra-articular SIJ sources of pain. 3 or more positive pain provocation SIJ tests have sensitivity and specificity of 91 % and 78 %, respectively. Specificity of 3 or more positive tests increases to 87 % in patients whose symptoms cannot be made to move towards the spinal midline, i. e., centralise. In chronic back pain populations, patients who have 3 or more positive provocation SIJ tests and whose symptoms cannot be made to centralise have a probability of having SIJ pain of 77 %, and in pregnant populations with back pain, a probability of 89 %. This combination of test findings could be used in research to evaluate the efficacy of specific treatments for SIJ pain. Treatments most likely to be effective are specific lumbopelvic stabilisation training and injections of corticosteroid into the intra-articular space.
University of Warsaw1, University of St Andrews2, Ohio State University3, Nagoya University4, Space Telescope Science Institute5, University of Notre Dame6, University of Cambridge7, University of Concepción8, Texas A&M University9, Chungbuk National University10, Korea Astronomy and Space Science Institute11, Auckland University of Technology12, University of Exeter13, Astrophysics Research Institute14, University of Stuttgart15, Royal Society16, Liverpool John Moores University17, University of Manchester18, European Southern Observatory19, Las Cumbres Observatory Global Telescope Network20, Massey University21, University of Auckland22, University of Canterbury23, Victoria University of Wellington24, Konan University25, College of Industrial Technology26, Institut d'Astrophysique de Paris27, University of the Free State28, University of Toulouse29
TL;DR: The OGLE-2007-BLG-224 microlensing event was observed in this article, from which the lens is a brown dwarf of mass M = 0.056 ± 0.004 M ☉, with a distance of 525 ± 40 pc and a transverse velocity of 113 ± 21 km s−1.
Abstract: Parallax is the most fundamental technique for measuring distances to astronomical objects. Although terrestrial parallax was pioneered over 2000 years ago by Hipparchus (ca. 140 B.C.E.) to measure the distance to the Moon, the baseline of the Earth is so small that terrestrial parallax can generally only be applied to objects in the Solar System. However, there exists a class of extreme gravitational microlensing events in which the effects of terrestrial parallax can be readily detected and so permit the measurement of the distance, mass, and transverse velocity of the lens. Here we report observations of the first such extreme microlensing event OGLE-2007-BLG-224, from which we infer that the lens is a brown dwarf of mass M = 0.056 ± 0.004 M ☉, with a distance of 525 ± 40 pc and a transverse velocity of 113 ± 21 km s–1. The velocity places the lens in the thick disk, making this the lowest-mass thick-disk brown dwarf detected so far. Follow-up observations may allow one to observe the light from the brown dwarf itself, thus serving as an important constraint for evolutionary models of these objects and potentially opening a new window on substellar objects. The low a priori probability of detecting a thick-disk brown dwarf in this event, when combined with additional evidence from other observations, suggests that old substellar objects may be more common than previously assumed.
TL;DR: It is argued that GPS, especially when used in combination with GIS and accelerometery, offers great promise in objectively measuring and studying the relationship of numerous environmental attributes to human behaviour in terms of physical activity and transport-related physical activity.
TL;DR: A long-term role for rehabilitation services such as identifying the significance of different types of activities; providing access to support and treatment for debilitating symptoms such as fatigue and dizziness; addressing patients' emotional and behavioural responses to their condition; working with patients' wider social networks and where appropriate, supporting adaptation to a changed way of life.
Abstract: Purpose. In this article, we aim to develop the understanding of what helps or hinders resumption of valued activities up to 12-months post-stroke.Method. As part of a longitudinal study, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 19 people with stroke and eight informal carers 12-months post-stroke. Interviews covered ongoing effects of stroke, experience of trying to resume activities highlighted as important pre-stroke and factors that influenced progress. Interviews were transcribed, coded and analysed in depth to explore this aspect of the experience of living with stroke.Results. Valued activities discussed related to employment; domestic and social roles including driving; hobbies, sports and socialising. Outcomes for individuals were influenced by: aspects of physical or cognitive disability; environmental factors; the adaptability of the individual; support from others and professional help. Inability to resume activities impacted on people's sense of self and quality of life, but some tolera...
TL;DR: Traditional aerobic conditioning, with minimal changes of direction and no skill component, has been demonstrated to effectively increase aerobic function within a 4- to 10-week period in team sport players.
Abstract: Team sport athletes require a high level of aerobic fitness in order to generate and maintain power output during repeated high-intensity efforts and to recover. Research to date suggests that these components can be increased by regularly performing aerobic conditioning. Traditional aerobic conditioning, with minimal changes of direction and no skill component, has been demonstrated to effectively increase aerobic function within a 4- to 10-week period in team sport players. More importantly, traditional aerobic conditioning methods have been shown to increase team sport performance substantially. Many team sports require the upkeep of both aerobic fitness and sport-specific skills during a lengthy competitive season. Classic team sport trainings have been shown to evoke marginal increases/decreases in aerobic fitness. In recent years, aerobic conditioning methods have been designed to allow adequate intensities to be achieved to induce improvements in aerobic fitness whilst incorporating movement-specific and skill-specific tasks, e.g. small-sided games and dribbling circuits. Such 'sport-specific' conditioning methods have been demonstrated to promote increases in aerobic fitness, though careful consideration of player skill levels, current fitness, player numbers, field dimensions, game rules and availability of player encouragement is required. Whilst different conditioning methods appear equivalent in their ability to improve fitness, whether sport-specific conditioning is superior to other methods at improving actual game performance statistics requires further research.
TL;DR: For example, this paper found that when participants' values were congruent with those of the organization, they tended to react to change more positively and people became more engaged with the change when emotions were acknowledged and treated with respect.
Abstract: Change triggers emotions as employees experience the processes and outcomes of organizational transformation An organization's affective culture, which shapes the way emotions are experienced and expressed, plays a particularly important part during changes to the culture and other aspects of organizational life This article contributes to the literature by illustrating the relationships between culture, change and emotions and presents the results of a qualitative study The study found that when participants’ values were congruent with those of the organization, they tended to react to change more positively Cultural change provoked emotional reactions, often of an intense nature When emotions were acknowledged and treated with respect, people became more engaged with the change Attitudes to existing culture also produced emotional responses to aspects of change
TL;DR: In this paper, the relationship between the perceived usability of flexible work schedules and work/life balance was explored with 710 office-based employees and found that perceived usability and availability of these work schedules appeared to be a key element in achieving work and life balance for ma...
Abstract: The relationship between the perceived usability of flexible work schedules and work/life balance was explored with 710 office-based employees. Direct linkages were found between perceived usability of flexible work schedules and the three dimensions of work/life balance (work interference with personal life, personal life interference with work, and work/personal life enhancement). In addition, employees operating under flexitime work schedules displayed significantly higher levels of work/life balance than their counterparts utilising traditional fixed-hour schedules. However, non-significant differences in the levels of work/life balance were found between two other flexible work schedules (flexiplace and job share) and fixed-hour work schedules. Consequently, while individual flexible work schedules may have a marginal overall positive impact on employee work/life balance, the perceived usability and availability of these work schedules appears to be a key element in achieving work/life balance for ma...
Abstract: Much has been written about teaching and learning deficiencies in accounting education. Universities have grappled with the challenge and developed a number of strategies to address the concerns raised. Many of the recommended strategies for addressing these deficiencies have included a focus on the development of professional capabilities and skills. This paper reports on a study which has identified the capabilities which are considered to be the most important for successful practice in accountancy during the first years after graduation and identified the extent to which New Zealand universities have focused on these in the delivery of their study programmes. Most attempts to measure the nature and extent of change to accountancy degree programmes have collected data from current or graduating students or from the university itself. This study instead collected feedback from accountancy graduates employed in public practice with three to five years post graduation professional experience and from thei...
TL;DR: There is little clear evidence to suggest what should be considered the “best practice” approach to vocational rehabilitation, and three broad categories of vocational rehabilitation for people with TBI were identified on the basis of models that underpin them.
Abstract: Background Return to work after traumatic brain injury (TBI) is an important outcome but frequently problematic to achieve. Vocational rehabilitation is commonly recommended as a means of facilitating return to work after TBI. However, there are several different approaches to vocational rehabilitation after TBI and little guidance regarding how to identify the best option for a particular context. Objectives To (1) identify approaches most commonly underpinning vocational interventions in TBI and (2) evaluate the evidence for effectiveness, strengths and weaknesses, and application of each approach for the TBI population. Methods Principles of systematic review were used for searching and critiquing articles. Findings are expressed as descriptive synthesis owing to heterogeneity of designs and outcome measures. Results Three broad categories of vocational rehabilitation for people with TBI were identified on the basis of models that underpin them-program-based vocational rehabilitation, supported employment, and case coordinated. The characteristics, similarities, differences, and applications of each approach are described, as are their strengths and limitations. Conclusions There is little clear evidence to suggest what should be considered the "best practice" approach to vocational rehabilitation.
TL;DR: In this paper, a scheme that allows the dispatch of steady and controllable level of power from a wind power generating station is proposed, where two battery energy storage systems (BESSs) are used to charge one BESS, while the second BESS is used to discharge constant power into grid.
Abstract: A scheme that allows the dispatch of steady and controllable level of power from a wind power generating station is proposed in this paper. The scheme utilizes two battery energy storage systems (BESSs) in which the generated wind power is used to charge one BESS, while the second BESS is used to discharge constant power into grid. The role of the two BESS interchanges when the discharging BESS reaches specified operating limit. With this scheme in mind and based on given wind speed statistics, charging characteristics of the BESS are studied, and a method to determine the expected charging time of the BESS to reach stipulated battery state of charge is developed. The expected BESS charging time, in turn, dictates the constant power level that can be dispatched to the grid through the discharging BESS. The corresponding discharge time is also determined using the developed method, the accuracy of which is validated experimentally. The proposed design procedure is then used to determine the minimum BESS capacity based on the expected wind power. Statistical likelihood of dispatchable power delivery achievable from the scheme is also obtained.
TL;DR: Positive adaptation in strength and power may be primarily affected by cumulative training volume and stimulus over a competitive season, and greater than 2 resistance sessions per week may be needed to improve strength andPower in elite rugby union athletes during a competitive year.
Abstract: The purpose of this investigation was to assess changes in strength, power, and levels of testosterone and cortisol over a 13-week elite competitive rugby union season. Thirty-two professional rugby union athletes from a Super 14 rugby team (age, 24.4 +/- 2.7 years; height, 184.7 +/- 6.2 cm; mass, 104.0 +/- 11.2 kg; mean +/- SD) were assessed for upper-body and lower-body strength (bench press and box squat, respectively) and power (bench throw and jump squat, respectively) up to 5 times throughout the competitive season. Salivary testosterone and cortisol samples, along with ratings of perceived soreness and tiredness, were also obtained before each power assessment. An effect size of 0.2 was interpreted as the smallest worthwhile change. A small increase in lower-body strength was observed over the study period (8.5%; 90% confidence limits +/-7.2%), whereas upper-body strength was maintained (-1.2%; +/-2.7%). Decreases in lower-body power (-3.3%; +/-5.5%) and upper-body power (-3.4; +/-4.9%) were small and trivial. There were moderate increases in testosterone (54%; +/-27%) and cortisol (97%; +/-51%) over the competitive season, and the testosterone to cortisol ratio showed a small decline (22%; +/-25%), whereas changes in perceived soreness and tiredness were trivial. Individual differences over the competitive season for all measures were mostly trivial or inestimable. Some small to moderate relationships were observed between strength and power; however, relationships between hormonal concentrations and performance were mainly trivial but unclear. Positive adaptation in strength and power may be primarily affected by cumulative training volume and stimulus over a competitive season. Greater than 2 resistance sessions per week may be needed to improve strength and power in elite rugby union athletes during a competitive season.