Showing papers by "Curtin University published in 2012"

Interventions for preventing falls in older people in care facilities and hospitals

Abstract: Cochrane review, hvor hensikten var a vurdere effekten av intervensjoner designet for reduksjon av fall blant eldre mennesker i sykehjem og sykehus.

Reduced graphene oxide for catalytic oxidation of aqueous organic pollutants.

Abstract: We discovered that chemically reduced graphene oxide, with an ID/IG >1.4 (defective to graphite) can effectively activate peroxymonosulfate (PMS) to produce active sulfate radicals. The produced sulfate radicals (SO4•—) are powerful oxidizing species with a high oxidative potential (2.5–3.1 vs 2.7 V of hydroxyl radicals), and can effectively decompose various aqueous contaminants. Graphene demonstrated a higher activity than several carbon allotropes, such as activated carbon (AC), graphite powder (GP), graphene oxide (GO), and multiwall carbon nanotube (MWCNT). Kinetic study of graphene catalyzed activation of PMS was carried out. It was shown that graphene catalysis is superior to that on transition metal oxide (Co3O4) in degradation of phenol, 2,4-dichlorophenol (DCP) and a dye (methylene blue, MB) in water, therefore providing a novel strategy for environmental remediation.

State ownership effect on firms' FDI ownership decisions under institutional pressure: a study of Chinese outward-investing firms

Abstract: This study investigates the effect of state ownership on Chinese firms’ foreign direct investment (FDI) ownership decisions. It adopts a political perspective to extend the application of institutional theory in international business research. Specifically, it examines firms’ heterogeneous responses to external institutional processes during foreign market entry, while taking into consideration the political affiliation of firms with the external institutions. We argue that state ownership creates the political affiliation of a firm with its home-country government, which increases the firm's resource dependence on home-country institutions, while at the same time influencing its image as perceived by host-country institutional constituents. Such resource dependence and political perception increase firms’ tendency to conform to, rather than resist, isomorphic institutional pressures. We tested our hypotheses using primary data for 132 FDI entries made by Chinese firms during 2000–2006, and we found that the effects of home regulatory, host regulatory and host normative pressures on a firm to choose a joint ownership structure were stronger when the share of equity held by state entities in the firm was high.

Human Rights and Social Work: Towards Rights-Based Practice

Abstract: Now in its third edition, Human Rights and Social Work explores how the principles of human rights inform contemporary social work practice. Jim Ife considers the implications of social work's traditional Enlightenment heritage and the possibilities of 'post-Enlightenment' practice in a way that is accessible, direct and engaging. The world has changed significantly since the publication of the first edition in 2000 and this book is situated firmly within the context of present-day debates, concerns and crises. Ife covers the importance of relating human rights to the non-human world, as well as the consequences of political and ecological uncertainty. Featuring examples, further readings and a glossary, readers are able to identify and investigate the important issues and questions arising from human rights and social work. Now more than ever, Human Rights and Social Work is an indispensable resource for students, scholars and practitioners alike.

A comprehensive framework for evaluation in design science research

Abstract: Evaluation is a central and essential activity in conducting rigorous Design Science Research (DSR), yet there is surprisingly little guidance about designing the DSR evaluation activity beyond suggesting possible methods that could be used for evaluation. This paper extends the notable exception of the existing framework of Pries-Heje et al [11] to address this problem. The paper proposes an extended DSR evaluation framework together with a DSR evaluation design method that can guide DSR researchers in choosing an appropriate strategy for evaluation of the design artifacts and design theories that form the output from DSR. The extended DSR evaluation framework asks the DSR researcher to consider (as input to the choice of the DSR evaluation strategy) contextual factors of goals, conditions, and constraints on the DSR evaluation, e.g. the type and level of desired rigor, the type of artifact, the need to support formative development of the designed artifacts, the properties of the artifact to be evaluated, and the constraints on resources available, such as time, labor, facilities, expertise, and access to research subjects. The framework and method support matching these in the first instance to one or more DSR evaluation strategies, including the choice of ex ante (prior to artifact construction) versus ex post evaluation (after artifact construction) and naturalistic (e.g., field setting) versus artificial evaluation (e.g., laboratory setting). Based on the recommended evaluation strategy(ies), guidance is provided concerning what methodologies might be appropriate within the chosen strategy(ies).

Chemical approaches toward graphene-based nanomaterials and their applications in energy-related areas.

Abstract: A 'gold rush' has been triggered all over the world for exploiting the possible applications of graphene-based nanomaterials. For this purpose, two important problems have to be solved; one is the preparation of graphene-based nanomaterials with well-defined structures, and the other is the controllable fabrication of these materials into functional devices. This review gives a brief overview of the recent research concerning chemical and thermal approaches toward the production of well-defined graphene-based nanomaterials and their applications in energy-related areas, including solar cells, lithium ion secondary batteries, supercapacitors, and catalysis. With a focus on chemical and thermal approaches toward the production of well-defined graphene-based nanomaterials, this paper gives a brief overview of the recent exciting research results and the potential applications of graphene nanomaterials in energy-related areas including solar cells, lithium ion secondary batteries, supercapacitors, and catalysis which have attracted great attention all over the world.

Neural-Network-Based Models for Short-Term Traffic Flow Forecasting Using a Hybrid Exponential Smoothing and Levenberg–Marquardt Algorithm

Abstract: This paper proposes a novel neural network (NN) training method that employs the hybrid exponential smoothing method and the Levenberg-Marquardt (LM) algorithm, which aims to improve the generalization capabilities of previously used methods for training NNs for short-term traffic flow forecasting. The approach uses exponential smoothing to preprocess traffic flow data by removing the lumpiness from collected traffic flow data, before employing a variant of the LM algorithm to train the NN weights of an NN model. This approach aids NN training, as the preprocessed traffic flow data are more smooth and continuous than the original unprocessed traffic flow data. The proposed method was evaluated by forecasting short-term traffic flow conditions on the Mitchell freeway in Western Australia. With regard to the generalization capabilities for short-term traffic flow forecasting, the NN models developed using the proposed approach outperform those that are developed based on the alternative tested algorithms, which are particularly designed either for short-term traffic flow forecasting or for enhancing generalization capabilities of NNs.

Does Board Structure in Banks Really Affect Their Performance

Abstract: We study whether board structure (board size, independence and gender diversity) in banks relates to performance. Using a broad panel of large US bank holding companies over the period 1997–2011, we find that both board size and independent directors decrease bank performance. Although gender diversity improves bank performance in the pre-Sarbanes–Oxley Act (SOX) period (1997–2002), the positive effect of gender diminishes in both the post-SOX (2003–2006) and the crisis periods (2007–2011). Finally, we show that board structure is particularly relevant for banks with low market power, if they are immune to the threat of external takeover and/or they are small. Our two-step system generalised method of moments estimation accounts for endogeneity concerns (simultaneity, reverse causality and unobserved heterogeneity). The findings are robust to a wide range of other sensitivity checks including alternative proxies for bank performance.

Calcium Carbonate Polyamorphism and Its Role in Biomineralization : How Many Amorphous Calcium Carbonates Are There?

Abstract: Although the polymorphism of calcium carbonate is well known, and its polymorphs--calcite, aragonite, and vaterite--have been highly studied in the context of biomineralization, polyamorphism is a much more recently discovered phenomenon, and the existence of more than one amorphous phase of calcium carbonate in biominerals has only very recently been understood. Here we summarize what is known about polyamorphism in calcium carbonate as well as what is understood about the role of amorphous calcium carbonate in biominerals. We show that consideration of the amorphous forms of calcium carbonate within the physical notion of polyamorphism leads to new insights when it comes to the mechanisms by which polymorphic structures can evolve in the first place. This not only has implications for our understanding of biomineralization, but also of the means by which crystallization may be controlled in medical, pharmaceutical, and industrial contexts.

Extending the TIME concept: what have we learned in the past 10 years?(*).

Abstract: The TIME acronym (tissue, infection/inflammation, moisture balance and edge of wound) was first developed more than 10 years ago, by an international group of wound healing experts, to provide a framework for a structured approach to wound bed preparation; a basis for optimising the management of open chronic wounds healing by secondary intention. However, it should be recognised that the TIME principles are only a part of the systematic and holistic evaluation of each patient at every wound assessment. This review, prepared by the International Wound Infection Institute, examines how new data and evidence generated in the intervening decade affects the original concepts of TIME, and how it is translated into current best practice. Four developments stand out: recognition of the importance of biofilms (and the need for a simple diagnostic), use of negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT), evolution of topical antiseptic therapy as dressings and for wound lavage (notably, silver and polyhexamethylene biguanide) and expanded insight of the role of molecular biological processes in chronic wounds (with emerging diagnostics and theranostics). Tissue: a major advance has been the recognition of the value of repetitive and maintenance debridement and wound cleansing, both in time-honoured and novel methods (notably using NPWT and hydrosurgery). Infection/inflammation: clinical recognition of infection (and non infective causes of persisting inflammation) is critical. The concept of a bacterial continuum through contamination, colonisation and infection is now widely accepted, together with the understanding of biofilm presence. There has been a return to topical antiseptics to control bioburden in wounds, emphasised by the awareness of increasing antibiotic resistance. Moisture: the relevance of excessive or insufficient wound exudate and its molecular components has led to the development and use of a wide range of dressings to regulate moisture balance, and to protect peri-wound skin, and optimise healing. Edge of wound: several treatment modalities are being investigated and introduced to improve epithelial advancement, which can be regarded as the clearest sign of wound healing. The TIME principle remains relevant 10 years on, with continuing important developments that incorporate new evidence for wound care.

Review of international grid codes for wind power integration: Diversity, technology and a case for global standard

Abstract: This paper presents a comprehensive study on the latest grid code regulations enforced by transmission system operators on large wind power plants (WPPs). First, the most common requirements included in the majority of international grid codes are compared; namely, low and high voltage ride-through capabilities, active and reactive power responses during and after faults, extended range of voltage–frequency variations, active power (frequency) control facility, and reactive power (voltage) regulation support. The paper also presents a discussion on the global harmonization of international grid codes as well as future trends expected in the regulations. Finally, the evolution of different wind generator technologies to fulfill various grid code requirements is investigated. The presented study will assist system operators to establish their connection requirements for the first time or to compare their existing regulations with other operators. It also enables wind turbine manufacturers and wind farm developers to obtain a more precise understanding from the latest international requirements imposed on modern wind farms.

The marmoset brain in stereotaxic coordinates

Abstract: The Marmoset Brain in Stereotaxic Coordinates is the most comprehensive atlas of the brain of this animal available. The atlas is constructed in the style of The Rat Brain in Stereotaxic Coordinates, the most-cited book in neuroscience. It represents a collaboration between world leaders in neuroanatomy of the primate cortex and subcortex. It will be an indispensible tool for neuroanatomists, behavioral neuroscientists, and molecular biologists trying to understand the primate brain. Endorsed by Society for Brain Mapping and Therapeutics (SBMT) - SBMT is a non-profit society organized for the purpose of encouraging basic and clinical scientists who are interested in areas of Brain Mapping, engineering, stem cell, nanotechnology, imaging and medical device to improve the diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of patients afflicted with neurological disorders. This society promotes the public welfare and improves patient care through the translation of new technologies/therapies into life saving diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. The Society is focused in breaking boundaries of science, technology, medicine, art and healthcare policy. 97 coronal diagrams and 97 accompanying photographic plates spaced at regular intervals and stained alternately for either Nissl or calbindin. Features: 100 fully labeled photographic plates of acetylcholinesterase and SMI32 sections at regular stereotaxic intervals; complete and up-to-date delineation of all areas of cortex and subcortex; stereotaxically accurate. Endorsed by Society for Brain Mapping and Therapeutics (SBMT) - SBMT is a non-profit society organized for the purpose of encouraging basic and clinical scientists who are interested in areas of Brain Mapping, engineering, stem cell, nanotechnology, imaging and medical device to improve the diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of patients afflicted with neurological disorders. This society promotes the public welfare and improves patient care through the translation of new technologies/therapies into life saving diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. The Society is focused in breaking boundaries of science, technology, medicine, art and healthcare policy.

Classroom Learning Environments: Retrospect, Context and Prospect

Abstract: This chapter reviews four decades of research within the burgeoning field of classroom learning environments. One major thrust is a review of the development, validity and use of several frequently-used and extensively-validated learning environment questionnaires such as the Science Laboratory Environment Inventory, Constructivist Learning Environment Survey and the What Is Happening In this Class?, as well as some recent questionnaires such as the Technology-Rich Outcomes-Focused Learning Environment Inventory and Constructivist-Oriented Learning Environment Survey. Another purpose of this chapter is to review several lines of past learning environment research, including associations between student outcomes and the learning environment, evaluation of educational innovations, teachers’ action-research attempts to improve their classroom environments, links between educational environments, and cross-national studies.

Consequences of customer loyalty to the loyalty program and to the company

Abstract: Gaining customer loyalty is an important goal of marketing, and loyalty programs are intended to help in reaching it. Research on loyalty programs suggests that customers differentiate between loyalty to a company and loyalty to a loyalty program, yet little is known about the consequences of these two types of loyalty. Therefore, our study intends to make two main contributions: (1) improving our understanding of the constructs "program loyalty" and "company loyalty", (2) investigating the relative impact of the two types of loyalty on preference, intention, and purchase behavior for the case of a multi-firm loyalty program. Results indicate that company loyalty influences a customer's choice to visit a particular provider and to prefer it over competitors, but it is not a strong predictor of purchase behavior. Conversely, program loyalty is a far more important driver of purchase behavior. This implies that company loyalty primarily attracts customers to a particular provider and program loyalty ensures that once inside the store, more money is spent.

Do customer satisfaction and reputation mediate the CSR-FP link?: Evidence from Australia

Abstract: Direct tests between corporate social responsibility (CSR) and firm performance (FP) have been argued to be spurious. Following this line of argument, the present study tests a mediated model in understanding the CSR–FP relationship. Specifically, we posit that reputation and customer satisfaction mediate fully the CSR–FP relationship. Based on the results from a sample of 280 Australian firms, the findings suggest that CSR is linked with FP. However, the effect is indirect: while CSR is linked to both reputation and customer satisfaction, reputation alone mediates the CSR–FP relationship. The results are interesting, suggesting that to reduce ambiguity surrounding the CSR–FP relationship scholars need to significantly expand studies that address moderating and mediating variables. Discussion is given to these findings along with paths for future research.

Age-related changes in thyroid function: a longitudinal study of a community-based cohort.

Abstract: Context: In cross-sectional studies, serum TSH concentrations increase with age. This has not been examined longitudinally, and it is uncertain whether the TSH increase reflects healthy aging or occult thyroid failure. Methods: We measured serum TSH, free T4, thyroid peroxidase, and thyroglobulin antibodies in 1100 participants in the 1981 and 1994 Busselton Health Surveys and derived a reference group of 908 individuals without thyroid disease or thyroid antibodies. We examined changes in thyroid function longitudinally and, in 781 participants, explored associations with the CAPZB polymorphism rs10917469. Results: At 13 yr follow-up, mean serum TSH increased from 1.49 to 1.81 mU/liter, a change in mean TSH (ΔTSH) of 0.32 mU/liter [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.27, 0.38, P < 0.001], whereas mean free T4 concentration was unchanged (16.6 vs. 16.6 pmol/liter, P = 0.7). The TSH increase was most marked in the elderly, such that gender-adjusted ΔTSH increased by 0.08 mU/liter (95% CI 0.04, 0.11) for each de...

The effect of 12 weeks of aerobic, resistance or combination exercise training on cardiovascular risk factors in the overweight and obese in a randomized trial

Abstract: Background: Evidence suggests that exercise training improves CVD risk factors. However, it is unclear whether health benefits are limited to aerobic training or if other exercise modalities such as resistance training or a combination are as effective or more effective in the overweight and obese. The aim of this study is to investigate whether 12 weeks of moderate-intensity aerobic, resistance, or combined exercise training would induce and sustain improvements in cardiovascular risk profile, weight and fat loss in overweight and obese adults compared to no exercise. Methods: Twelve-week randomized parallel design examining the effects of different exercise regimes on fasting measures of lipids, glucose and insulin and changes in body weight, fat mass and dietary intake. Participants were randomized to either: Group 1 (Control, n=16); Group 2 (Aerobic, n=15); Group 3 (Resistance, n=16); Group 4 (Combination, n=17). Data was analysed using General Linear Model to assess the effects of the groups after adjusting for baseline values. Within-group data was analyzed with the paired t-test and between-group effects using post hoc comparisons. Results: Significant improvements in body weight (�1.6%, p=0.044) for the Combination group compared to Control and Resistance groups and total body fat compared to Control (�4.4%, p=0.003) and Resistance (�3%, p=0.041). Significant improvements in body fat percentage (�2.6%, p=0.008), abdominal fat percentage (�2.8%, p=0.034) and cardio-respiratory fitness (13.3%, p=0.006) were seen in the Combination group compared to Control. Levels of ApoB48 were 32% lower in the Resistance group compared to Control (p=0.04). Conclusion: A 12-week training program comprising of resistance or combination exercise, at moderate-intensity for 30 min, five days/week resulted in improvements in the cardiovascular risk profile in overweight and obese participants compared to no exercise. From our observations, combination exercise gave greater benefits for weight loss, fat loss and cardio-respiratory fitness than aerobic and resistance training modalities. Therefore, combination exercise training should be recommended for overweight and obese adults in National Physical Activity Guidelines. This clinical trial was registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR), registration number: ACTRN12609000684224.