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Showing papers by "Edith Cowan University published in 2010"



Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: This work expands and integrates qualitative conceptual models of plant niche and feedback to explore implications of microbial interactions for understanding plant community ecology and applies this model to understanding plant coexistence, monodominance and invasion ecology.
Abstract: Predominant frameworks for understanding plant ecology have an aboveground bias that neglects soil micro-organisms. This is inconsistent with recent work illustrating the importance of soil microbes in terrestrial ecology. Microbial effects have been incorporated into plant community dynamics using ideas of niche modification and plant–soil community feedbacks. Here, we expand and integrate qualitative conceptual models of plant niche and feedback to explore implications of microbial interactions for understanding plant community ecology. At the same time we review the empirical evidence for these processes. We also consider common mycorrhizal networks, and propose that these are best interpreted within the feedback framework. Finally, we apply our integrated model of niche and feedback to understanding plant coexistence, monodominance and invasion ecology.

697 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Physical activity is beneficial to health with or without weight loss, but adults who find it difficult to maintain a normal weight should probably be encouraged to reduce energy intake and minimize time spent in sedentary behaviours to prevent further weight gain.
Abstract: Our understanding of the relationship between physical activity and health is constantly evolving. Therefore, the British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences convened a panel of experts to review the literature and produce guidelines that health professionals might use. In the ABC of Physical Activity for Health, A is for All healthy adults, B is for Beginners, and C is for Conditioned individuals. All healthy adults aged 18-65 years should aim to take part in at least 150 min of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week, or at least 75 min of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week, or equivalent combinations of moderate- and vigorous-intensity activities. Moderate-intensity activities are those in which heart rate and breathing are raised, but it is possible to speak comfortably. Vigorous-intensity activities are those in which heart rate is higher, breathing is heavier, and conversation is harder. Aerobic activities should be undertaken in bouts of at least 10 min and, ideally, should be performed on five or more days a week. All healthy adults should also perform muscle-strengthening activities on two or more days a week. Weight training, circuit classes, yoga, and other muscle-strengthening activities offer additional health benefits and may help older adults to maintain physical independence. Beginners should work steadily towards meeting the physical activity levels recommended for all healthy adults. Even small increases in activity will bring some health benefits in the early stages and it is important to set achievable goals that provide success, build confidence, and increase motivation. For example, a beginner might be asked to walk an extra 10 min every other day for several weeks to slowly reach the recommended levels of activity for all healthy adults. It is also critical that beginners find activities they enjoy and gain support in becoming more active from family and friends. Conditioned individuals who have met the physical activity levels recommended for all healthy adults for at least 6 months may obtain additional health benefits by engaging in 300 min or more of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week, or 150 min or more of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity each week, or equivalent combinations of moderate- and vigorous-intensity aerobic activities. Adults who find it difficult to maintain a normal weight and adults with increased risk of cardiovascular disease or type 2 diabetes may in particular benefit from going beyond the levels of activity recommended for all healthy adults and gradually progressing towards meeting the recommendations for conditioned individuals. Physical activity is beneficial to health with or without weight loss, but adults who find it difficult to maintain a normal weight should probably be encouraged to reduce energy intake and minimize time spent in sedentary behaviours to prevent further weight gain. Children and young people aged 5-16 years should accumulate at least 60 min of moderate-to-vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per day, including vigorous-intensity aerobic activities that improve bone density and muscle strength.

613 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: A relatively brief exposure to exercise significantly improved muscle mass, strength, physical function, and balance in hypogonadal men compared with normal care and could be recommended for patients undergoing AST as an effective countermeasure to these common treatment-related adverse effects.
Abstract: Purpose Androgen suppression therapy (AST) results in musculoskeletal toxicity that reduces physical function and quality of life. This study examined the impact of a combined resistance and aerobic exercise program as a countermeasure to these AST-related toxicities. Patients and Methods Between 2007 and 2008, 57 patients with prostate cancer undergoing AST (commenced > 2 months prior) were randomly assigned to a program of resistance and aerobic exercise (n = 29) or usual care (n = 28) for 12 weeks. Primary end points were whole body and regional lean mass. Secondary end points were muscle strength and function, cardiorespiratory capacity, blood biomarkers, and quality of life. Results Analysis of covariance was used to compare outcomes for groups at 12 weeks adjusted for baseline values and potential confounders. Patients undergoing exercise showed an increase in lean mass compared with usual care (total body, P = .047; upper limb, P < .001; lower limb, P = .019) and similarly better muscle strength (P...

541 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Overall, cyber-victimisation emerged as an additional risk factor for depressive symptoms in adolescents involved in bullying, even when controlling for the involvement in traditional bullying/victims.
Abstract: Background: Cyber-bullying (i.e., bullying via electronic means) has emerged as a new form of bullying that presents unique challenges to those victimised. Recent studies have demonstrated that there is a significant conceptual and practical overlap between both types of bullying such that most young people who are cyberbullied also tend to be bullied by more traditional methods. Despite the overlap between traditional and cyber forms of bullying, it remains unclear if being a victim of cyber-bullying has the same negative consequences as being a victim of traditional bullying. Method: The current study investigated associations between cyber versus traditional bullying and depressive symptoms in 374 and 1320 students from Switzerland and Australia respectively (52% female; Age: M = 13.8, SD = 1.0). All participants completed a bullying questionnaire (assessing perpetration and victimisation of traditional and cyber forms of bullying behaviour) in addition to scales on depressive symptoms. Results: Across both samples, traditional victims and bully-victims reported more depressive symptoms than bullies and non-involved children. Importantly, victims of cyber-bullying reported significantly higher levels of depressive symptoms, even when controlling for the involvement in traditional bullying/victimisation. Conclusions: Overall, cyber-victimisation emerged as an additional risk factor for depressive symptoms in adolescents involved in bullying.

393 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: The ability of strength training to render similar short-term improvements in athletic performance as ballistic power training, coupled with the potential long-term benefits of improved maximal strength, makes strength training a more effective training modality for relatively weak individuals.
Abstract: Purpose: To determine whether the magnitude of improvement in athletic performance and the mechanisms driving these adaptations differ in relatively weak individuals exposed to either ballistic power training or heavy strength training. Methods: Relatively weak men (n = 24) who could perform the back squat with proficient technique were randomized into three groups: strength training (n = 8; ST), power training (n = 8; PT), or control (n = 8). Training involved three sessions per week for 10 wk in which subjects performed back squats with 75%-90% of one-repetition maximum (1RM; ST) or maximal-effort jump squats with 0%-30% 1RM (PT). Jump and sprint performances were assessed as well as measures of the force-velocity relationship, jumping mechanics, muscle architecture, and neural drive. Results: Both experimental groups showed significant (P <= 0.05) improvements in jump and sprint performances after training with no significant between-group differences evident in either jump (peak power: ST = 17.7% +/- 9.3%, PT = 17.6% +/- 4.5%) or sprint performance (40-m sprint: ST = 2.2% +/- 1.9%, PT = 3.6% +/- 2.3%). ST also displayed a significant increase in maximal strength that was significantly greater than the PT group (squat 1RM: ST = 31.2% +/- 11.3%, PT = 4.5% +/- 7.1%). The mechanisms driving these improvements included significant (P <= 0.05) changes in the force-velocity relationship, jump mechanics, muscle architecture, and neural activation that showed a degree of specificity to the different training stimuli. Conclusions: Improvements in athletic performance were similar in relatively weak individuals exposed to either ballistic power training or heavy strength training for 10 wk. These performance improvements were mediated through neuromuscular adaptations specific to the training stimulus. The ability of strength training to render similar short-term improvements in athletic performance as ballistic power training, coupled with the potential long-term benefits of improved maximal strength, makes strength training a more effective training modality for relatively weak individuals

382 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: It is shown that while metabolic adjustment may assist Australasian kelp beds to persist and maintain abundance in warmer waters, it also reduces the physiological responsiveness of kelps to perturbation, and suppresses canopy recovery from disturbances by reducing the ecological performance of kelp recruits.
Abstract: Successful mitigation of negative effects of global warming will depend on understanding the link between physiological and ecological responses of key species. We show that while metabolic adjustment may assist Australasian kelp beds to persist and maintain abundance in warmer waters, it also reduces the physiological responsiveness of kelps to perturbation, and suppresses canopy recovery from disturbances by reducing the ecological performance of kelp recruits. This provides a warning not to rely solely on inventories of distribution and abundance to evaluate ecosystem function. The erosion of resilience is mediated by a shift in adult-juvenile interactions from competitive under cool to facilitative under warm conditions, supporting the prediction that positive interactions may become increasingly important in a warmer future. Kelp beds may remain intact but with a lower threshold for where additional impacts (e.g., extreme storms or reduced water quality) will lead to persistent loss of habitat and ecological function.

309 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Evidence shows that communication partner training is effective in improving communication activities and/or participation of the communication partner and is probably effective in reducing language impairment and psychosocial adjustment of persons with chronic aphasia when they are interacting with trained communication partners.

271 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: A meta-analysis of 15 studies with a total of 31 effect sizes was carried out to analyse the role of various factors on the effects of PT on strength performance, finding the combination of different types of plyometrics with weight-training would be recommended, rather than utilizing only one form.

251 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: The strong correlation between hippocampal atrophy and β-amyloid burden in the Pittsburgh compound B–positive healthy control group suggests that Aβ deposition in the inferior temporal neocortex is related to hippocampal synaptic and neuronal degeneration.
Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To investigate whether global and regional beta-amyloid (Abeta) burden as measured with 11C Pittsburgh compound B (PIB) PET is associated with hippocampal atrophy characterized using MRI in healthy controls and patients with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) or Alzheimer disease (AD). METHODS: Ninety-two elderly healthy controls, 32 subjects with aMCI, and 35 patients with AD were imaged using 11C-PIB PET and MRI. Hippocampal volume was measured and PIB standardized uptake value ratio was extracted after partial volume correction within 41 regions of interest. Global, regional, and voxel-based correlations between PIB and hippocampal volume were computed for each group. RESULTS: In healthy control participants with elevated neocortex PIB retention, significant correlation was found between PIB retention in the inferior temporal region and hippocampal volume using both region-based and voxel-based approaches. No correlation was found in any other group. CONCLUSIONS: The strong correlation between hippocampal atrophy and beta-amyloid (Abeta) burden in the Pittsburgh compound B-positive healthy control group suggests that Abeta deposition in the inferior temporal neocortex is related to hippocampal synaptic and neuronal degeneration.

229 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the cross-sectional relationship of strength, power, and performance variables in trained female athletes and determine if the relationship between these variables changes over the course of a season was investigated.
Abstract: The purpose of this study was to investigate (a) the cross-sectional relationship of strength, power, and performance variables in trained female athletes and (b) determine if the relationship between these variables changes over the course of a season. Ten female softball players (age = 18.1 ± 1.6 years, height = 166.5 ± 8.9 cm, and weight = 72.4 ± 10.8 kg) from a state Australian Institute of Sport softball team were tested for maximal lower body strength (one repetition maximum [1RM]), peak force (PF), peak velocity (PV), and peak power (PP) during jump squats unloaded and loaded, unloaded countermovement vertical jump height (VJH) 1 base and 2 base sprint performance and change of direction performance on dominant and nondominant sides. The testing sessions occurred pre, mid, and post a 20-week training period. Relationship between body weight (BW), relative strength (1RM/BW), VJH, relative PP, relative PF, PV, speed, and change of direction variables were assessed by Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient at each testing session. Significant relationships were found across all time points with BW, speed, and change of direction measures (r = 0.70-0.93) and relative strength and measures of speed and change of direction ability (r = -0.73-0.85). There were no significant relationships between VJH and any measure of performance at any time point. In conclusion, BW and relative strength have strong to very strong correlations with speed and change of direction ability, and these correlations remain consistent over the course of the season. However, it seems as if many relationships vary with time, and their relationships should therefore be investigated longitudinally to better determine if these cross-sectional relationships truly reflect a deterministic relationship.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: The magnitude of improvements after ballistic power training was not significantly influenced by strength level, and the neuromuscular and biomechanical mechanisms driving performance improvements were very similar for both strong and weak individuals.
Abstract: Purpose: To determine whether the magnitude of performance improvements and the mechanisms driving adaptation to ballistic power training differ between strong and weak individuals. Methods: Twenty-four men were divided into three groups on the basis of their strength level: stronger (n = 8, one-repetition maximum-to-body mass ratio (1RM/BM) = 1.97 +/- 0.08), weaker (n = 8, 1RM/BM = 1.32 +/- 0.14), or control (n = 8, 1RM/BM = 1.37 +/- 0.13). The stronger and weaker groups trained three times per week for 10 wk. During these sessions, subjects performed maximal-effort jump squats with 0%-30% 1RM. The impact of training on athletic performance was assessed using a 2-d testing battery that involved evaluation of jump and sprint performance as well as measures of the force-velocity relationship, jumping mechanics, muscle architecture, and neural drive. Results: Both experimental groups showed significant (P <= 0.05) improvements in jump (stronger: peak power = 10.0 +/- 5.2 W[middle dot]kg-1, jump height = 0.07 +/- 0.04 m; weaker: peak power = 9.1 +/- 2.3 W[middle dot]kg-1, jump height = 0.06 +/- 0.04 m) and sprint performance after training (stronger: 40-m time = -2.2% +/- 2.0%; weaker: 40-m time = -3.6% +/- 2.3%). Effect size analyses revealed a tendency toward practically relevant differences existing between stronger and weaker individuals in the magnitude of improvements in jump performance (effect size: stronger: peak power = 1.55, jump height = 1.46; weaker: peak power = 1.03, jump height = 0.95) and especially after 5 wk of training (effect size: stronger: peak power = 1.60, jump height = 1.59; weaker: peak power = 0.95, jump height = 0.61). The mechanisms driving these improvements included significant (P <= 0.05) changes in the force-velocity relationship, jump mechanics, and neural activation, with no changes to muscle architecture observed. Conclusions: The magnitude of improvements after ballistic power training was not significantly influenced by strength level. However, the training had a tendency toward eliciting a more pronounced effect on jump performance in the stronger group. The neuromuscular and biomechanical mechanisms driving performance improvements were very similar for both strong and weak individuals

Proceedings ArticleDOI
16 Apr 2010
TL;DR: An analysis with respect to the variation of moment invariants on image geometric transformation is presented, so as to analyze the effect of image's scaling and rotation.
Abstract: Moment invariants have been widely applied to image pattern recognition in a variety of applications due to its invariant features on image translation, scaling and rotation. The moments are strictly invariant for the continuous function. However, in practical applications images are discrete. Consequently, the moment invariants may change over image geometric transformation. To address this research problem, an analysis with respect to the variation of moment invariants on image geometric transformation is presented, so as to analyze the effect of image's scaling and rotation. Finally, the guidance is also provided for minimizing the fluctuation of moment invariants.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Training-induced alterations in SSC function during the ECC phase contributes to improvements in jump performance after both ballistic power training and heavy strength training.
Abstract: Purpose: To determine whether ballistic power training and strength training result in specific changes in stretch-shorten cycle (SSC) function during the eccentric (ECC) phase and, if so, whether these changes are influenced by the individual's strength level. Methods: Thirty-two male subjects were divided into four groups: stronger power training group (SP, n = 8, squat one-repetition maximum-to-body mass ratio (1RM/BM) = 1.97 ± 0.08), weaker power training group (WP, n = 8, 1RM/BM = 1.32 ± 0.14), weaker strength training group (WS, n = 8, 1RM/BM = 1.28 ± 0.17), or control group (C, n = 8, 1RM/BM = 1.37 ± 0.13). Training involved three sessions per week for 10 wk. The SP and WP groups performed maximal-effort jump squats with 0%-30% 1RM, and the WS group performed back squats at 75%-90% 1RM. Maximal strength, jump performance, musculotendinous stiffness, and neural activation were assessed before training and after 5 and 10 wk of training. Results: Both power and strength training elicited significant changes in a multitude of ECC variables that were significantly associated with improvements in concentric (CON) performance. Enhancements in CON performance were theorized to be driven by the development of a strategy to better use the ECC phase during jumping (i.e., greater unloading allowed for increased negative acceleration and thus velocity during the countermovement and improved musculotendinous stiffness resulted in an enhanced ability to translate the momentum developed during the ECC phase into force). Although a significant improvement in maximal strength resulted in changes to SSC function during the ECC phase, the initial strength level did not significantly affect the ECC variables before training or the magnitude of adaptations in individuals exposed to ballistic power training. Conclusions: Training-induced alterations in SSC function during the ECC phase contributes to improvements in jump performance after both ballistic power training and heavy strength training.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Compared with cold water, ice slurry ingestion lowered preexercise rectal temperature, increased submaximal endurance running time in the heat (+19% ± 6%), and allowed rectalTemperature to become higher at exhaustion.
Abstract: Purpose:To investigate the effect of ice slurry ingestion on thermoregulatory responses and submaximal running time in the heat.Methods:On two separate occasions, in a counterbalanced order, 10 males ingested 7.5 g·kg−1 of either ice slurry (−1°C) or cold water (4°C) before running to exhaus

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Small standard errors of the measurement and high ICCs with the small confidence intervals suggest that, at proximal and mid-thigh sections, EFOV is a valid and reliable method to measure quadriceps muscle size.
Abstract: This study aimed to test the validity and reliability of an extended-field-of-view ultrasonography (EFOV) method for quadriceps muscle cross-sectional area (CSA) assessment. The CSA was measured at 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50% of the distance from the superior border of the patella to the medial aspect of anterior superior iliac spine by EFOV imaging and compared to the CSA measured by computed tomography (CT). Validity was tested by intra-class correlation (ICC) between the two methods and intra- and inter-experimenter and inter-day reliability were also examined. The ICC computed between the two techniques ranged between 0.951 and 0.998 (P < 0.000), but the 95% confidence intervals of the ICCs were in the acceptable range only for 30, 40 and 50% sections (0.842-0.999, 0.943-0.997 and 0.992-0.999, respectively). The standard error of the EFOV technique when compared to CT was 2.4, 4.3, 1.2, 1.2 and 0.6%, for 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50% sections, respectively. The coefficient of variation, showing intra- and inter-experimenter reliability, ranged from 0.6 to 2.7%. ICCs computed to assess the inter-day reliability were between 0.982 and 0.998 (95% confidence interval 0.892-1). When CSA was compared between sections statistically significant differences were found between them, regardless of the imaging technique used. Small standard errors of the measurement and high ICCs with the small confidence intervals suggest that, at proximal and mid-thigh sections, EFOV is a valid and reliable method to measure quadriceps muscle size.

Journal ArticleDOI
01 Nov 2010-Brain
TL;DR: It is suggested that the deleterious effects of β-amyloid on cognition may be delayed in those subjects with larger brain (temporal) volume, and complementary analyses tend to support the latter hypotheses.
Abstract: β-Amyloid deposition is one of the main hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease thought to eventually cause neuronal death. Post-mortem and neuroimaging studies have consistently reported cases with documented normal cognition despite high β-amyloid burden. It is of great interest to understand what differentiates these particular subjects from those without β-amyloid deposition or with both β-amyloid deposition and cognitive deficits, i.e. what allows these subjects to resist the damage of the pathological lesions. [¹¹C]Pittsburgh compound B positron emission tomography and magnetic resonance brain scans were obtained in 149 participants including healthy controls and patients with subjective cognitive impairment, mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease. Magnetic resonance data were compared between high versus low-[11C]Pittsburgh compound B cases, and between high-[¹¹C]Pittsburgh compound B cases with versus those without cognitive deficits. Larger temporal (including hippocampal) grey matter volume, associated with better episodic memory performance, was found in high- versus low-[¹¹C]Pittsburgh compound B healthy controls. The same finding was obtained using different [¹¹C]Pittsburgh compound B thresholds, correcting [¹¹C]Pittsburgh compound B data for partial averaging, using age, education, Mini-Mental State Examination, apolipoprotein E4 and sex-matched subsamples, and using manual hippocampal delineation instead of voxel-based analysis. By contrast, in participants with subjective cognitive impairment, significant grey matter atrophy was found in high-[¹¹C]Pittsburgh compound B cases compared to low-[¹¹C]Pittsburgh compound B cases, as well as in high-[¹¹C]Pittsburgh compound B cases with subjective cognitive impairment, mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease compared to high-[¹¹C]Pittsburgh compound B healthy controls. Larger grey matter volume in high-[¹¹C]Pittsburgh compound B healthy controls may reflect either a tissue reactive response to β-amyloid or a combination of higher 'brain reserve' and under-representation of subjects with standard/low temporal volume in the high-[¹¹C]Pittsburgh compound B healthy controls. Our complementary analyses tend to support the latter hypotheses. Overall, our findings suggest that the deleterious effects of β-amyloid on cognition may be delayed in those subjects with larger brain (temporal) volume.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: The data confirm that GWAS, regardless of the platform, are valuable for the identification of genetic variants associated with AD, and reinforce the necessity for replication and validation, not only of GWAS but also of candidate gene case–control studies, in different populations.
Abstract: With the advent of technologies that allow simultaneous genotyping of thousands of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) across the genome, the genetic contributions to complex diseases can be explored at an unprecedented detail. This study is among the first to apply the genome-wide association study (GWAS) approach to Alzheimer disease (AD). We present our GWAS results from the German population for genes included in the ‘Top Results’ list on the AlzGene database website. In addition to the apolipoprotein E locus, we identified nominally significant association signals in six of the ten genes investigated, albeit predominantly for SNPs other than those already published as being disease associated. Further, all of the four AD genes previously identified through GWAS also showed nominally significant association signals in our data. The results of our comparative study reinforce the necessity for replication and validation, not only of GWAS but also of candidate gene case–control studies, in different populations. Furthermore, cross-platform comparison of genotyping results can also identify new association signals. Finally, our data confirm that GWAS, regardless of the platform, are valuable for the identification of genetic variants associated with AD.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Students' higher school connectedness in Grades 8 and 9 was influenced by greater levels of family connectedness, fewer classroom and peer problems, less difficult secondary school transition, fewer emotional problems, and greater prosocial skills.
Abstract: Background Connectedness to school is a significant predictor of adolescent health and academic outcomes. While individual predictors of connectedness have been well-described, little is known about school-level factors which may influence connectedness. A school's ecology, or its structural, functional, and built aspects, coupled with interpersonal interactions, may also help to enhance adolescent connectedness. Aim This study aims to identify school ecological characteristics which predict enhanced connectedness in secondary school. Sample Data from 5,159 Grade 8 students (12–13 years) from 39 randomly selected schools were tracked until the end of Grade 9 (13–14 years). Method Students' self-reported school, teacher, and family connectedness, mental health and peer relationships were measured at two time points. Accounting for school-level clustering, student- and school-level ecological characteristics were modelled on self-reported school connectedness in Grades 8 and 9. Results Students' higher school connectedness in Grades 8 and 9 was influenced by greater levels of family connectedness, fewer classroom and peer problems, less difficult secondary school transition, fewer emotional problems, and greater prosocial skills. Seven school-level ecological variables were significantly associated with school connectedness after controlling for student-level predictors. At the school-level, priority for pastoral care and students' aggregated writing skills scores significantly predicted concurrent and future enhanced connectedness. Conclusions Interventions to improve students' school connectedness should address individual student characteristics and school functional features such as pastoral care strategies and helping students to achieve greater academic outcomes. Future studies should focus on the cumulative longitudinal influence of school ecological and student-level predictors of school connectedness.

Journal ArticleDOI
01 Aug 2010-Pain
TL;DR: In this article, the authors examined the health literacy of individuals with chronic low back pain (CLBP) using a mixed methods approach, and found that LBP-related beliefs and behaviours, rather than pain intensity and health literacy skills, were important correlates of disability related to LBP.
Abstract: Health literacy, the ability to seek, understand and utilise health information, is important for good health. Suboptimal health literacy has been associated with poorer health outcomes in many chronic conditions although this has not been studied in chronic low back pain (CLBP). We examined the health literacy of individuals with CLBP using a mixed methods approach. One-hundred and seventeen adults, comprising 61 with no history of CLBP and 56 with CLBP (28 with low and high disability, respectively, as determined by a median split in Oswestry scores) participated. Data regarding severity of pain, LBP-related disability, fear avoidance, beliefs about LBP and pain catastrophizing were collected using questionnaires. Health literacy was measured using the Short-form Test of Functional Health Literacy in Adults (S-TOFHLA). A sub-sample of 36 participants with CLBP also participated in in-depth interviews to qualitatively explore their beliefs about LBP and experiences in seeking, understanding and using information related to LBP. LBP-related beliefs and behaviours, rather than pain intensity and health literacy skills, were found to be important correlates of disability related to LBP. Individuals with CLBP-high disability had poorer back pain beliefs and increased fear avoidance behaviours relating to physical activity. Health literacy (S-TOFHLA) was not related to LBP beliefs and attitudes. Qualitatively, individuals with CLBP-high disability adopted a more passive coping style and had a pathoanatomic view of their disorder compared to individuals with CLBP-low disability. While all participants with CLBP had adequate health literacy scores (S-TOFHLA), qualitative data highlighted difficulties in seeking, understanding and utilising LBP information.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the authors investigate the reality of financial and management accounting in a small group of small firms, from the owner's perspective, to see what financial information is collected, how it is used (or not) to make business decisions and evaluate the firm's performance, and the role played by the accountant.
Abstract: Purpose The purpose of this paper is to investigate the reality of financial and management accounting in a small group of small firms. Specifically, from the owner's perspective, an exploration is undertaken to see what financial information is collected, how it is used (or not) to make business decisions and evaluate the firm's performance, and the role played by the accountant in that process. Design/methodology/approach A phenomenological paradigm underpins this exploratory study. Semi‐structured interviews were undertaken with the owners of ten small firms, where the focus was on understanding what happens in an organisational setting, as opposed to theory and textbook practice. Findings The qualitative data supported prior research in other countries. The in‐depth analysis revealed a very basic understanding of accounting information and problems with the financial literacy amongst these small firm owners. Accounting reports were not widely produced or used, so an informal assessment, such as how much cash was in the bank, was the primary means of assessing business performance. Accountants were used for taxation services, although some owners sought more general business advice. Originality/value An understanding is developed of why there might be a gap between textbook rhetoric and reality of accounting practice in small firms. The conclusion is that accounting textbooks need to include more information about the reality of financial management in small firms.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: The cross-sectional analysis of plasma Abeta isoforms suggests that they may not be sufficient per se to diagnose AD, and the value of their measurement in prognosis and monitoring of AD interventions needs further study.
Abstract: Amyloid-beta (Abeta) plays a central role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and has been postulated as a potential biomarker for AD. However, there is a lack of consensus as to its suitability as an AD biomarker. The objective of this study was to determine the significance of plasma Abeta as an AD biomarker and its relationship with Abeta load and to determine the effect of different assay methods on the interpretation of Abeta levels. Plasma Abeta1-40, Abeta1-42, and N-terminal cleaved fragments were measured using both a commercial multiplex assay and a well-documented ELISA in 1032 individuals drawn from the well-characterized Australian Imaging, Biomarkers and Lifestyle (AIBL) study of aging. Further, Abeta levels were compared to Abeta load derived from positron-emission tomography (PET) with the Pittsburgh compound B (PiB). Lower Abeta1-42 and Abeta1-42/1-40 ratio were observed in patients with AD and inversely correlated with PiB-PET derived Abeta load. However, assay methodology significantly impacted the interpretation of data. The cross-sectional analysis of plasma Abeta isoforms suggests that they may not be sufficient per se to diagnose AD. The value of their measurement in prognosis and monitoring of AD interventions needs further study, in addition to future longitudinal comparisons together with other predictors, which will determine whether plasma Abeta has diagnostic value in a panel of biomarkers.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: For instance, this article found that women, immigrants and non-dominant cultural groups held more positive attitudes than men, non-immigrants and dominant groups for some dimensions, while there was evidence of attitudinal ambivalence with participants expressing concerns about negative consequences of cultural diversity.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: The aim in the present study was to determine the optimal load required to observe peak power output during the ballistic bench throw (BBT) and squat jump (J) in professional rugby players.
Abstract: The ability to develop high levels of muscular power is considered an essential component of success in many sporting activities; however, the optimal load for the development of peak power during training remains controversial. Our aim in the present study was to determine the optimal load required to observe peak power output during the ballistic bench throw (BBT) and squat jump (SJ) in professional rugby players. Forty-seven, professional, male, rugby players of (mean +/- SD) mass 101.3 +/- 12.8 kg and height 1.82 +/- 0.08 m volunteered and gave informed consent for this study, which was approved by a university ethics committee. Players performed BBT at loads of 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60% of their predetermined 1 repetition maximum (1RM) and SJ at loads of 0, (body mass only), 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60% of their predetermined 1RM in a randomized and balanced order. Power output (PO) was determined by measurement of barbell displacement with subsequent calculation of velocity, force, and power. Relative load had a significant effect on PO for both the BBT (effect size eta(2): 0.297, p < 0.001) and SJ (Effect Size eta(2): 0.709, p < 0.001). Peak power output was produced when the athletes worked against an external load equal to 30% 1RM for the upper body and 0% 1RM for the lower body.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, a concept of rural social space is modelled, bringing together social, economic and environmental dimensions of (rural-regional) sustainability, and the implications of the model are examined in terms of its importance for teacher education.
Abstract: The complex interconnection among issues affecting rural-regional sustainability requires an equally complex program of research to ensure the attraction and retention of high-quality teachers for rural children. The educational effects of the construction of the rural within a deficit discourse are highlighted. A concept of rural social space is modelled, bringing together social, economic and environmental dimensions of (rural-regional) sustainability. This framework combines quantitative definitional processes with more situated definitions of rural space based on demographic and other social data, across both geographic and cultural formations. The implications of the model are examined in terms of its importance for teacher education.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: The benefits as well as the disadvantages of consanguineous marriage are assessed and discussed, with specific consideration given to the health of migrant communities in Western countries, among whom first cousin marriage remains preferential.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: EFOV US analysis was proven more accurate for the assessment of skeletal muscle fascicle length than conventional extrapolation methods and is shown to be a reliable and valid method for the measurement of long muscle fascicles in vivo.
Abstract: The present study examined the reliability and validity of in vivo vastus lateralis (VL) fascicle length (Lf) assessment by extended field-of-view ultrasonography (EFOV US). Intraexperimenter and i...

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: The study concludes that the coordinator role and school leadership in general, play critical but varying roles in the complex process of ICT integration into schools.
Abstract: This study utilizes a school-improvement perspective to examine the role of curriculum coordination in the integration of information and communication technologies (ICT) into primary schools. The nature and impact of this role is examined in seven primary schools in Australia. These seven schools were drawn from a longitudinal intervention that provided additional ICT-related resources and personnel to the schools. An instrument, referred to as the Learning Outcomes and Pedagogy Attributes (LOPA) measure, was developed and charted for the seven schools over the 4-year data collection period. The changes in LOPA score over time were then analysed in terms of the conditions at the school with regard to curriculum ICT coordination. The study concludes that the coordinator role and school leadership in general, play critical but varying roles in the complex process of ICT integration into schools. Success appeared to be associated with the support provided for the role, the extent to which the role was connected to school leadership, personal leadership characteristics of those in the role and the strategies employed within the role.

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TL;DR: Caregivers in this study reported experiences similar to those described by caregivers of people with other cancers, but what differed for this group was the rapidity of change and the need for immediate information and support to assist with caring for a person with high-grade glioma.
Abstract: Patients diagnosed with high-grade gliomas have a poor prognosis and limited life expectancy, and often experience rapid decline in function. Caring for a patient with high-grade glioma is particularly stressful because caregivers are faced not only with cancer-related caregiving issues, but also issues relating to caring for someone with cognitive impairment. This study aimed to articulate the experiences of family caregivers of people diagnosed with high-grade glioma and to describe their information and support needs. A grounded theory method was adopted. Twenty-one family caregivers of people with high-grade glioma were interviewed using a semi-structured interview guide. A constant comparison method of data analysis was employed. A central theme, A Time of Rapid Change and two sub-themes, Renegotiating Relationships and Learning to be a Caregiver, emerged to describe the experiences of participants. Caregiving was characterised by numerous role and life changes from the moment of diagnosis. Caregivers in this study reported experiences similar to those described by caregivers of people with other cancers. What differed for this group was the rapidity of change and the need for immediate information and support to assist with caring for a person with high-grade glioma.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Comparisons of in vivo Achilles tendon moment arms obtained using the center of rotation (COR) and tendon excursion (TE) methods demonstrate that both methods are robust against their limitations.
Abstract: Accurate and reliable estimation of muscle moment arms is a prerequisite for the development of musculoskeletal models. Numerous techniques are available to estimate the Achilles tendon moment arm ...