Showing papers by "Brunel University London published in 2003"
TL;DR: It is concluded that research utilisation can be better understood, and enhanced, by developing assessment methods informed by conceptual analysis and review of previous studies.
Abstract: The importance of health research utilisation in policy-making, and of understanding the mechanisms involved, is increasingly recognised. Recent reports calling for more resources to improve health in developing countries, and global pressures for accountability, draw greater attention to research-informed policy-making. Key utilisation issues have been described for at least twenty years, but the growing focus on health research systems creates additional dimensions.
708 citations
TL;DR: This article examined the influence of experience on coaching practice and found that it is experience and the observation of other coaches that remain the primary sources of knowledge for coaches, despite this, coach education and continuing professional development fail to draw effectively on this experience.
Abstract: Research over the last decade has demonstrated that it is experience and the observation of other coaches that remain the primary sources of knowledge for coaches. Despite this, coach education and continuing professional development fail to draw effectively on this experience. Using the work of Pierre Bourdieu, this paper attempts to understand how the “art of coaching” can be characterized as structured improvisation and how experience is crucial to structuring coaching practice. An examination of current coach education and assessment demonstrates that coaching practice viewed as a composite of knowledge has not specifically addressed the pervasive influence of experience on coaching practice. Drawing on experiences from the educational field, we examine how coach education and continuing professional development can utilize mentoring and critical reflection to situate learning in the practical experience of coaching.
680 citations
TL;DR: The trans-contextual model as discussed by the authors proposes that young people's perceived autonomy support in physical education will affect their perceived locus of causality, intentions, and physical activity behavior in leisure time.
Abstract: The trans-contextual model proposes that young people's perceived autonomy support in physical education will affect their perceived locus of causality, intentions, and physical activity behavior in leisure time High school students completed measures of perceived autonomy support and perceived locus of causality in physical education One week later, participants' perceived locus of causality and constructs from the theory of planned behavior were assessed in leisure time Leisure-time physical activity behavior was measured 5 weeks later Perceived autonomy support in physical education affected leisure-time physical activity directly and indirectly through a motivational sequence involving internal perceived locus of causality, attitudes, perceived behavioral control, and intentions Results support the trans-contextual model indicating that perceived autonomy support in an educational context influences motivation in a leisure-time context (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2008 APA, all rights reserved) (journal abstract)
522 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors observed a narrow state near 2.32 GeV/c(2) in the inclusive D(+)(s)pi(0) invariant mass distribution from e(+)e(-) annihilation data at energies near 10.6 GeV.
Abstract: We have observed a narrow state near 2.32 GeV/c(2) in the inclusive D(+)(s)pi(0) invariant mass distribution from e(+)e(-) annihilation data at energies near 10.6 GeV. The observed width is consistent with the experimental resolution. The small intrinsic width and the quantum numbers of the final state indicate that the decay violates isospin conservation. The state has natural spin-parity and the low mass suggests a J(P)=0(+) assignment. The data sample corresponds to an integrated luminosity of 91 fb(-1) recorded by the BABAR detector at the SLAC PEP-II asymmetric-energy e(+)e(-) storage ring.
497 citations
TL;DR: This contribution reports how a European set of general population preference weights was derived from the data collected in the 11 valuation studies to suggest that VAS values for EQ-5D health states in six Western European countries can be described by a common model
Abstract: The EQ-5D questionnaire is a widely used generic instrument for describing and valuing health that was developed by the EuroQol Group. A primary objective of the EuroQol Group is the investigation of values for health states in the general population in different countries. As part of the EuroQol enterprise 11 population surveys were carried out in six Western European countries (Finland, Germany, The Netherlands, Spain, Sweden and the UK) to value health states as defined by the EQ-5D using a standardised visual analogue scale (EQ-5D VAS). This contribution reports how a European set of general population preference weights was derived from the data collected in the 11 valuation studies. The scores from this set of preference weights can be applied to generate a VAS-based weighted health status index for all the potential 243 EQ-5D health states for use in multi-national studies. To estimate the preference weights a multi-level regression analysis was performed on 82,910 valuations of 44 EQ-5D health states elicited from 6,870 respondents. Stable and plausible solutions were found for the model parameters. The R(2) value was 75%. The analysis showed that the major source of variance, apart from 'random error', was variance between individuals (28.3% of the total residual variance). These results suggest that VAS values for EQ-5D health states in six Western European countries can be described by a common model.
434 citations
TL;DR: Polymorphism in p53 may influence individual responsiveness to cancer therapy, and clinical response following cisplatin-based chemo-radiotherapy for advanced head and neck cancer is influenced by this polymorphism, cancers expressing 72R mutants having lower response rates than those expressing 72P mutants.
432 citations
TL;DR: The lab-based studies demonstrated that all of the tested chemicals (known to be estrogenic and to cause reproductive effects in fish) also affected embryo production in P. antipodarum, making it potentially a sensitive test organism for assessing estrogenicity of chemicals with a relevance to their activity in vertebrates.
427 citations
TL;DR: The aim of INSPIRE is to make a shift towards a more 'learning-focused' paradigm of instruction by providing a sequence of authentic and meaningful tasks that matches learner' preferred way of studying.
Abstract: In this paper we present an Adaptive Educational Hypermedia prototype, named INSPIRE. The approach employed in INSPIRE emphasizes the fact that learners perceive and process information in very different ways, and integrates ideas from theories of instructional design and learning styles. Our aim is to make a shift towards a more 'learning-focused' paradigm of instruction by providing a sequence of authentic and meaningful tasks that matches learner' preferred way of studying. INSPIRE, throughout its interaction with the learner, dynamically generates learner-tailored lessons that gradually lead to the accomplishment of learner's learning goals. It supports several levels of adaptation: from full system-control to full learner-control, and offers learners the option to decide on the level of adaptation of the system by intervening in different stages of the lesson generation process and formulating the lesson contents and presentation. Both the adaptive and adaptable behavior of INSPIRE are guided by the learner model which provides information about the learner, such as knowledge level on the domain concepts and learning style. The learner model is exploited in multiple ways: curriculum sequencing, adaptive navigation support, adaptive presentation, and supports system's adaptable behavior. An empirical study has been performed to evaluate the adaptation framework and assess learners' attitudes towards the proposed instructional design.
420 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the authors draw upon two ongoing postgraduate geographical research projects with children to reflect upon their own experiences of adopting children centred research methodologies, such as photographs, diaries, in depth interviews and surveys, and highlight the importance of considering the impact of the spaces in which we conduct our research.
Abstract: Over the past ten years, geographers have contributed to the growing body of interdisciplinary research developing new ways of undertaking research with children. Traditional research methods which do not directly involve working with children, such as the large scale observation of children, have been criticised for carrying out research on rather than with children. Instead, drawing upon the increasingly important children’s rights movement, researchers have been developing inclusive and participatory children centred methodologies, which place the voices of children, as social actors, at the centre of the research process. In this paper, we draw upon two ongoing postgraduate geographical research projects with children to reflect upon our own experiences of adopting children centred research methodologies. We also critically evaluate our own use of different innovative children centred research techniques, such as photographs, diaries, in‐depth interviews and surveys.We also highlight the importance of considering the impact of the spaces in which we conduct our research.
411 citations
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TL;DR: In this article, the authors draw on Niklas Luhmann's social systems theory, and in particular his concept of an "episode", to guide research into strategic practice and its relationship to the operating routines of an organization.
Abstract: In this paper we draw on Niklas Luhmann's social systems theory, and in particular his concept of an 'episode', to guide research into strategic practice and its relationship to the operating routines of an organization. Episodes, in Luhmann's theory, provide a mechanism by which a system can suspend its routine structures and so initiate a reflection on and change of these structures. Applying this theory to the organizational process of strategic change, we draw attention to the routine nature of strategic episodes and to their organizational role as the effective locus of strategic practice and the interaction between strategic and operating routines. We continue to develop a framework for the systematic analysis of different kinds of episode in terms of key aspects of their initiation, conduct and termination.
366 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the authors present a method to evaluate the characteristics and performance of a single stage lithium bromide (LiBr) -water absorption machine, where the necessary heat and mass transfer equations and appropriate equations describing the properties of working fluids are specified.
TL;DR: In this paper, the in-plane dynamic behaviour of hexagonal aluminium honeycombs has been studied by means of finite element simulation using ABAQUS and the influences of honeycomb cell wall thickness and impact velocity on the mode of localised deformation and the plateau stress are investigated.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors identify categories pertinent to the measurement of social capital in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by drawing on three different sectors, one business-to-business service, one B2C service, and one manufacturing, and find sector to play an important part inrelation to business practices and social capital.
Abstract: "Social capital" can be considered to be the product of co-operationbetween various institutions, networks and business partners. It haspotential as a useful tool for business ethics. In this article weidentify categories pertinent to the measurement of social capital insmall and medium sized enterprises (SMEs). By drawing on three differentsectors, one business-to-business service, one business-to-customerservice, and one manufacturing, we have enabled the consideration ofsectoral differences. We find sector to play an important part inrelation to business practices and social capital. Our inclusion of SMEsfrom Germany and the United Kingdom has called attention to cultural,institutional and economic aspects of two regions of Europe and how theycan influence SME social capital. Social capital is found to beinfluenced by context and, in particular, institutional arrangements. Inanalysing the data we note particular areas of interest from the pointof view of SMEs and social capital as being: formal engagement,networking within sectors, networking across sectors, volunteerism andgiving to charity, and finally a focus on why people engage. We concludethat there is a considerable amount of further research needed on socialcapital, SME's and business ethics.
TL;DR: The identification, by functional complementation using microcell-mediated chromosome transfer, of a gene that is mutated in MSD and is able to rescue the enzymatic deficiency in patients' cell lines is reported, indicating that SUMF1 is both an essential and a limiting factor for sulfatases.
Book•
01 Oct 2003TL;DR: The public understanding of science and technology from cognition to context Science and public policy from government to governance Social theory and science Re-conceptualizing science, society and governance Ethno-epistemic assemblages heterogeneity and relationality in scientific citizenship Politics and method governing the assemblage, unearthing the rhizome Conclusion Index as discussed by the authors.
Abstract: Preface Introducing theory, context and practice The public understanding of science and technology from cognition to context Science and public policy from government to governance Social theory and science Re-conceptualising science, society and governance Ethno-epistemic assemblages heterogeneity and relationality in scientific citizenship Politics and method governing the assemblage, unearthing the rhizome Conclusion Index.
TL;DR: The addressed filtering problem can effectively be solved in terms of the solutions of a couple of algebraic Riccati-like inequalities or linear matrix inequalities.
Abstract: In this note, we consider a new filtering problem for linear uncertain discrete-time stochastic systems with missing measurements. The parameter uncertainties are allowed to be norm-bounded and enter into the state matrix. The system measurements may be unavailable (i.e., missing data) at any sample time, and the probability of the occurrence of missing data is assumed to be known. The purpose of this problem is to design a linear filter such that, for all admissible parameter uncertainties and all possible incomplete observations, the error state of the filtering process is mean square bounded, and the steady-state variance of the estimation error of each state is not more than the individual prescribed upper bound. It is shown that, the addressed filtering problem can effectively be solved in terms of the solutions of a couple of algebraic Riccati-like inequalities or linear matrix inequalities. The explicit expression of the desired robust filters is parameterized, and an illustrative numerical example is provided to demonstrate the usefulness and flexibility of the proposed design approach.
TL;DR: The current swirl of diversity could signal a return to the days of ad hoc systems development, lack of formal methodology, and consequent increase in failure.
Abstract: The current swirl of diversity could signal a return to the days of ad hoc systems development, lack of formalmethodology, and consequent increase in failure.
24 Jun 2003
TL;DR: Metaheuristic techniques such as genetic algorithms, simulated annealing and tabu search have found wide application in most areas of engineering as discussed by the authors, however, they have not been more widely applied to software engineering.
Abstract: Metaheuristic techniques such as genetic algorithms, simulated annealing and tabu search have found wide application in most areas of engineering. These techniques have also been applied in business, financial and economic modelling. Metaheuristics have been applied to three areas of software engineering: test data generation, module clustering and cost/effort prediction, yet there remain many software engineering problems which have yet to be tackled using metaheuristics. It is surprising that metaheuristics have not been more widely applied to software engineering; many problems in software engineering are characterised by precisely the features which make metaheuristics search applicable. In the paper it is argued that the features which make metaheuristics applicable for engineering and business applications outside software engineering also suggest that there is great potential for the exploitation of metaheuristics within software engineering. The paper briefly reviews the principal metaheuristic search techniques and surveys existing work on the application of metaheuristics to the three software engineering areas of test data generation, module clustering and cost/effort prediction. It also shows how metaheuristic search techniques can be applied to three additional areas of software engineering: maintenance/evolution system integration and requirements scheduling. The software engineering problem areas considered thus span the range of the software development process, from initial planning, cost estimation and requirements analysis through to integration, maintenance and evolution of legacy systems. The aim is to justify the claim that many problems in software engineering can be reformulated as search problems, to which metaheuristic techniques can be applied. The goal of the paper is to stimulate greater interest in metaheuristic search as a tool of optimisation of software engineering problems and to encourage the investigation and exploitation of these technologies in finding near optimal solutions to the complex constraint-based scenarios which arise so frequently in software engineering.
TL;DR: The current knowledge and proposed mechanisms for the exercise-induced growth hormone response, the physiological consequences of endurance, strength and power training on the EIGR and its potential effects in elderly populations, including the aged athlete are examined.
Abstract: Human growth hormone (hGH) is secreted in a pulsatile fashion, generally following a circadian rhythm. A number of physiological stimuli can initiate hGH secretion, the most powerful, non-pharmacological of which are sleep and exercise. hGH has many varied roles throughout life, from growth itself, including the turnover of muscle, bone and collagen, to the regulation of selective aspects of metabolic function including increased fat metabolism and the maintenance of a healthier body composition in later life.
TL;DR: Significant muscle size and architectural adaptations can occur in concurrently training athletes in response to a 5-wk training program, possibly associated with the force and velocity characteristics of the training exercises but not the movement patterns.
Abstract: BLAZEVICH, A. J., N. D. GILL, R. BRONKS, and R. U. NEWTON. Training-Specific Muscle Architecture Adaptation after 5-wk Training in Athletes. Med. Sci. Sports Exerc., Vol. 35, No. 12, pp. 2013–2022, 2003.PurposeThis study examined changes in the muscle size, muscle architecture, strength, and
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors argue for a re-orientation away from the large multi-national firm as a benchmark subject of business ethics research, arguing that the small firm remains the dominant organisational form throughout all the OECD countries.
Abstract: In this editorial to a collection of papers on ethics in small firms, the case is made for greater use of high quality empirical research on business ethics. Sociological perspectives have much to offer to the field of business ethics that continues to be dominated by normative, moral philosophy. The second contribution of the paper is to argue for a re-orientation away from the large multi-national firm as a benchmark subject of business ethics research. One important point of view to be included is that of the small firm, which remains the dominant organisational form throughout all the OECD countries.
TL;DR: A conceptual framework for health research systems (HRSs) is proposed that defines their boundaries, components, goals, and functions and serves as a foundation for constructing a practical approach to describe and analyse HRSs.
Abstract: Health research generates knowledge that can be utilized to improve health system performance and, ultimately, health and health equity. We propose a conceptual framework for health research systems (HRSs) that defines their boundaries, components, goals, and functions. The framework adopts a systems perspective towards HRSs and serves as a foundation for constructing a practical approach to describe and analyse HRSs. The analysis of HRSs should, in turn, provide a better understanding of how research contributes to gains in health and health equity. In this framework, the intrinsic goals of the HRS are the advancement of scientific knowledge and the utilization of knowledge to improve health and health equity. Its four principal functions are stewardship, financing, creating and sustaining resources, and producing and using research. The framework, as it is applied in consultation with countries, will provide countries and donor agencies with relevant inputs to policies and strategies for strengthening HRSs and using knowledge for better health.
TL;DR: In this paper, an optimal power-flow-based ATC enhancement model is formulated to achieve the maximum power transfer of the specified interface with FACTS control, and a power injection model of FACTS devices, which enables simulating the control of any FACTS device, is employed.
Abstract: From the viewpoint of operational planning, this paper focuses on the evaluation of the impact of FACTS control on available transfer capability (ATC) enhancement. Technical merits of FACTS technology on ATC boosting are analyzed. An optimal power-flow-based ATC enhancement model is formulated to achieve the maximum power transfer of the specified interface with FACTS control. For better studying the capability of FACTS control, a power injection model of FACTS devices, which enables simulating the control of any FACTS devices, is employed. Studies based on the IEEE 118-bus system with all categories of FACTS devices demonstrate the effectiveness of FACTS control on ATC enhancement.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors report on empirical research which investigates social capital of small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) bringing an international perspective to the work, making a comparison between 30 firms located in West London and Munich in the sectors of food manufacturing/production, marketing services and garages.
Abstract: In this paper we report on empirical research which investigates social capital of Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs) Bringing an international perspective to the work, we make a comparison between 30 firms located in West London and Munich in the sectors of food manufacturing/production, marketing services and garages Here we present 6 case studies, which we use to illustrate the early findings from this pilot project We identify differences in approach to associational membership in Germany and the UK, with a greater propensity to "belong" to an official group in Germany We distinguish clear sectoral similarities across the countries, and indications that certain personality types will seek out engagement and find time beyond busy work life schedules, often merging work/home/leisure life and friends Some of our cases illustrate that formal institutions, networks and mutual relationships can develop social capital for the SME, although we should take care not to assume a universal win-win situation for those who are engaged and contribute to the common good Some of the obstacles to co-operation and civic engagement are outlined
TL;DR: In this paper, the effects of fillers (talc and calcium carbonate) on polypropylene /ammonium polyphosphate/polyamide-6 (PP/APP/PA-6) intumescent system by using mechanical testing, LOI method, cone calorimetry and thermoanalytical techniques.
TL;DR: This paper presents a method for correcting dead reckoning parameters, which are heading and step size, for a pedestrian navigation system, and shows that the parameters can be estimated with reasonable accuracy.
Abstract: This paper presents a method for correcting dead reckoning parameters, which are heading and step size, for a pedestrian navigation system. In this method, the compass bias error and the step size error can be estimated during the period that the Global Positioning System (GPS) signal is available. The errors are used for correcting those parameters to improve the accuracy of position determination using only the dead reckoning system when the GPS signal is not available. The results show that the parameters can be estimated with reasonable accuracy. Moreover, the method also helps to increase the positioning accuracy when the GPS signal is available.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors present a community perspective on managing knowledge in project environments, focusing on reflection, participation, and learning in the context of cross functional teams, and making sense of learning landscapes in project-based organizations.
TL;DR: The proposed model allows for better understanding of the disease dynamics and environment and vaccination strategies are discussed especially in the case of the succession of two epidemics with two different viruses.
Abstract: Background
Dengue is a disease which is now endemic in more than 100 countries of Africa, America, Asia and the Western Pacific. It is transmitted to the man by mosquitoes (Aedes) and exists in two forms: Dengue Fever and Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever. The disease can be contracted by one of the four different viruses. Moreover, immunity is acquired only to the serotype contracted and a contact with a second serotype becomes more dangerous.
TL;DR: This paper examined the relationship between inflation uncertainty and the impact of inflation targeting using British data over the period 1972-2002 and found that the adoption of an explicit target eliminates inflation persistence and reduces long-run uncertainty.