Showing papers by "Manchester Metropolitan University published in 2001"
TL;DR: Two important features emerged: the muscle contracted near–isometrically in the stance phase, with the fascicles operating at ca.
Abstract: In the present study we investigated in vivo length changes in the fascicles and tendon of the human gastrocnemius medialis (GM) muscle during walking. The experimental protocol involved real-time ultrasound scanning of the GM muscle, recording of the electrical activity of the muscle, measurement of knee- and ankle-joint rotations, and measurement of ground reaction forces in six men during walking at 3 km h(-1) on a treadmill. Fascicular lengths were measured from the sonographs recorded. Musculotendon complex length changes were estimated from anatomical and joint kinematic data. Tendon length changes were obtained combining the musculotendon complex and fascicular length-change data. The fascicles followed a different length-change pattern from those of the musculotendon complex and tendon throughout the step cycle. Two important features emerged: (i) the muscle contracted near-isometrically in the stance phase, with the fascicles operating at ca. 50 mm; and (ii) the tendon stretched by ca. 7 mm during single support, and recoiled in push-off. The behaviour of the muscle in our experiment indicates consumption of minimal metabolic energy for eliciting the contractile forces required to support and displace the body. On the other hand, the spring-like behaviour of the tendon indicates storage and release of elastic-strain energy. Either of the two mechanisms would favour locomotor economy
593 citations
TL;DR: A single-tube 5′ nuclease multiplex PCR assay was developed on the ABI 7700 Sequence Detection System (TaqMan) for the detection of Neisseria meningitidis, Haemophilus influenzae, and Streptococcus pneumoniae from clinical samples of cerebrospinal fluid, plasma, serum, and whole blood.
Abstract: A single-tube 5' nuclease multiplex PCR assay was developed on the ABI 7700 Sequence Detection System (TaqMan) for the detection of Neisseria meningitidis, Haemophilus influenzae, and Streptococcus pneumoniae from clinical samples of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), plasma, serum, and whole blood. Capsular transport (ctrA), capsulation (bexA), and pneumolysin (ply) gene targets specific for N. meningitidis, H. influenzae, and S. pneumoniae, respectively, were selected. Using sequence-specific fluorescent-dye-labeled probes and continuous real-time monitoring, accumulation of amplified product was measured. Sensitivity was assessed using clinical samples (CSF, serum, plasma, and whole blood) from culture-confirmed cases for the three organisms. The respective sensitivities (as percentages) for N. meningitidis, H. influenzae, and S. pneumoniae were 88.4, 100, and 91.8. The primer sets were 100% specific for the selected culture isolates. The ctrA primers amplified meningococcal serogroups A, B, C, 29E, W135, X, Y, and Z; the ply primers amplified pneumococcal serotypes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10A, 11A, 12, 14, 15B, 17F, 18C, 19, 20, 22, 23, 24, 31, and 33; and the bexA primers amplified H. influenzae types b and c. Coamplification of two target genes without a loss of sensitivity was demonstrated. The multiplex assay was then used to test a large number (n = 4,113) of culture-negative samples for the three pathogens. Cases of meningococcal, H. influenzae, and pneumococcal disease that had not previously been confirmed by culture were identified with this assay. The ctrA primer set used in the multiplex PCR was found to be more sensitive (P < 0.0001) than the ctrA primers that had been used for meningococcal PCR testing at that time.
590 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, a novel scheme has been developed for data reconstruction within a Godunov-type method for solving the shallow-water equations with source terms, which is suitable for both steady and unsteady flow problems.
557 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the authors apply the personification metaphor to the measurement issue and formalize the approach using an established methodology, and demonstrate significant linkages between image and identity and the ability of the scales to identify differences between the images and identities of different organizations.
Abstract: Many existing approaches to the measurement of corporate reputation have been criticized as being overly focused on the financial performance of companies and on the views of external stakeholders. Further, there is as yet no established universal measure to assess both the internal (often referred to as identity) and external (often referred to as image) elements of reputation. A number of models of reputation see these two elements as interlinked. It follows that any comprehensive measurement tool for reputation should be applicable both inside and outside of the organization. This paper addresses the potential for the personification metaphor as a measurement strategy in the assessment of both the internal and external facets of reputation. Its purpose is to apply the personification metaphor to the measurement issue and to formalize the approach using an established methodology. Empirical evidence is provided of data from three companies, each in a different sector: retailing, financial services and business-to-business. The personality framework and validated scales of Aaker (1997) are used to assess the identity and image of each company. The data are used to demonstrate significant linkages between image and identity and the ability of the scales to identify differences between the images and identities of different organizations. While we conclude that there is merit in the application of the personality metaphor to the issue of the measurement of reputation, a number of weaknesses in using the one existing scale are identified, including items that are culturally specific. Consequently, the reliability measures achieved are not as high here as in the original work. Further research is envisaged to develop scales that are of greater efficacy in the field of reputation.
343 citations
TL;DR: This paper critically contrasts the three main schools of thought on knowledge – namely, those that respectively conceptualize knowledge as situated in mind, process, and object – and assesses the resulting implications for knowledge management (KM).
Abstract: This paper critically contrasts the three main schools of thought on knowledge – namely, those that respectively conceptualize knowledge as situated in mind, process, and object – and assesses the resulting implications for knowledge management (KM). Against the background of the existing diversity of definitions of KM an integrated and holistic view of the KM value chain is put forward. Within this theoretical framework five main research streams (culture, knowledge location, awareness, evaluation, and absorption) are identified with a view to devising a practical concept of KM applicable in a business context. With a focus on knowledge flow and detailed approaches to potential solutions, conflicts and compatibilities between existing business strategies and KM are examined. A conceptual model is devised to offer a holistic integration of the theoretical and practical themes in order to serve as a framework for developing a future research agenda for the development of theoretically grounded, yet practical, KM business tools and applications.
297 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the authors present a case study of an organisation which is addressing issues of workplace culture in relation to work-life policies and gender equality, and a new set of issues have emerged which will require innovative solutions.
Abstract: Work‐life polices and practices have the potential to enhance opportunities for women in the workplace (and opportunities for men to be more involved in family life), but are often undermined by workplace culture. Presents a case study of an organisation which is addressing issues of workplace culture in relation to work‐life policies and gender equality. Despite achieving substantial change in practice and in shared assumptions, a new set of issues have emerged which will require innovative solutions.
295 citations
01 Jan 2001
TL;DR: The ADER formulation for the linear advection equation with constant coefficients, in one and multiple space dimensions, is presented and numerical results for one and two-dimensional problems using schemes of upto 10-th order accuracy are presented.
Abstract: We present an approach, called ADER, for constructing non-oscillatory advection schemes of very high order of accuracy in space and time; the schemes are explicit, one step and have optimal stability condition for one and multiple space dimensions The approach relies on essentially non-oscillatory reconstructions of the data and the solution of a generalised Riemann problem via solutions of derivative Riemann problems The schemes may thus be viewed as Godunov methods of very high order of accuracy We present the ADER formulation for the linear advection equation with constant coefficients, in one and multiple space dimensions Some preliminary ideas for extending the approach to non-linear problems are also discussed Numerical results for one and two-dimensional problems using schemes of upto 10-th order accuracy are presented
259 citations
TL;DR: The most common interpretations reflect the notion that satisfaction is a feeling which results from a process of evaluating what was received against that expected, the purchase decision itself and/or the fulfilment of needs/wants as discussed by the authors.
Abstract: The term satisfaction is a very important concept in marketing and is central to many definitions. This paper seeks to examine what this term means to the public at large. It explores the various definitions of satisfaction within the literature. The empirical results derive from individuals’ own interpretation and definition of the term satisfaction, as well as evaluation of their definitions. Finds that most people cited several definitions of satisfaction, illustrating that it is a multifaceted concept. The most common interpretations reflect the notion that satisfaction is a feeling which results from a process of evaluating what was received against that expected, the purchase decision itself and/or the fulfilment of needs/wants. It also finds that the particular interpretation is affected by contextual issues, such as whether it is a product or service under consideration. Implications for consumer satisfaction measurement and interpretation are discussed.
245 citations
TL;DR: This review paper considers some key issues in research methods in biomechanics and motor control, including selection of trial sizes, effect size statistics, qualitative and numerical trend analysis and cross-correlations, and reporting checks or corrections for violations of underpinning assumptions.
Abstract: Biomechanics and motor control researchers measure how the body moves and interacts with its environment. The aim of this review paper is to consider some key issues in research methods in biomechanics and motor control. The review is organized into four sections: proposing, conducting, analysing and reporting research. In the first of these, we emphasize the importance of defining a worthy research question and of planning the study before its implementation to prevent later difficulties in the analysis and interpretation of data. In the second section, we cover selection of trial sizes and suggest that using three trials or more may be beneficial to provide more 'representative' and valid data. The third section on analysis of data concentrates on effect size statistics, qualitative and numerical trend analysis and cross-correlations. As sample sizes are often small, the use of effect size is recommended to support the results of statistical significance testing. In using cross-correlations, we recommend that scatterplots of one variable against the other, with the identified time lag included, be inspected to confirm that the linear relationship assumption underpinning this statistic is met and, if appropriate, that a linearity transformation be applied. Finally, we consider important information related to the issues above that should be included when reporting research. We recommend reporting checks or corrections for violations of underpinning assumptions, and the effect of these checks or corrections, to assist in advancing knowledge in biomechanics and motor control.
232 citations
TL;DR: Habitat management for spiders should not be considered alone, but integrated into a holistic plan, and small reserves should examine the viability of providing two contrasting regimes.
Abstract: Both intensity and type of habitat management in grasslands and heathlands affect spider communities. With high intensity management, spider communities often lack diversity and are dominated by a few r -selected species affiliated with bare ground. Low intensity management produces more complex communities introducing more niches for aerial web spinners and climbing spiders. The preferred management will be site-dependent and may not be appropriate for all spiders in all situations, particularly for some rare or threatened species. Providing natural cover is recommended when using extreme forms of management or intensive grazing (particularly by sheep). In extreme cases, or where trampling is heavy, the litter layer should be conserved. We advocate research and survey before and after major management implementation. Habitat management for spiders should not be considered alone, but integrated into a holistic plan. Management for spiders may conflict with rare plant conservation and small reserves should examine the viability of providing two contrasting regimes.
215 citations
TL;DR: The authors evaluate a conversation analytic approach to the study of the links between gender and language from a feminist perspective and suggest that a CA approach produces a rich understanding of the link between discourse and gender, but they are critical of several unexamined aspects and conundrums of conversation analytic methodology.
Abstract: In this article, we critically evaluate a conversation analytic approach to the study of the links between gender and language from a feminist perspective. In so doing, we engage in the recent series of exchanges about conversation analysis (CA) and other strands of discourse analysis that have been published in Discourse & Society. We consider talk from two sets of discourse data, focusing on participants' orientation to gender categories as they crop up in the interactions. We suggest that a CA approach produces a rich understanding of the links between discourse and gender. However, we are critical of several, often unexamined aspects and conundrums of conversation analytic methodology. First, we consider the extent to which the `analytic stances' of feminism and conversation analysis are compatible. Second, we question whether, as Schegloff (1997) suggests, it is fruitful to rely on descriptions of and orientations to gender solely in participants' terms, as well as problematizing the notion of `orien...
TL;DR: Assessment of the level of agreement between critical velocity (CV), maximal lactate steady-state velocity (MLSSV), and lactate turnpoint velocity (LTPV) during treadmill running suggested that the extent of disagreement is too great to allow one variable to be estimated accurately from another in individual subjects.
Abstract: In cycle exercise, it has been suggested that critical power, maximal lactate steady state, and lactate turnpoint all demarcate the transition between the heavy exercise domain (in which blood lactate is elevated above resting values but remains stable over time) and the very heavy exercise domain (in which blood lactate increases continuously throughout constant-intensity exercise). The purpose of the present study was to assess the level of agreement between critical velocity (CV), maximal lactate steady-state velocity (MLSSV), and lactate turnpoint velocity (LTPV) during treadmill running. Eight male subjects [mean (SD) age 28 (5) years, body mass 71.2 (8.0) kg, maximum oxygen uptake 54.9 (3.2) ml.kg(-1).min(-1)) performed an incremental treadmill test for the determination of LTPV (defined as a sudden and sustained increase in blood lactate concentration ([La]) at approximately equals 2.0-5.0 mM). The subjects returned to the laboratory on eight or nine occasions for the determination of CV and MLSSV. The CV was determined from four treadmill runs at velocities that were chosen to result in exhaustion within 2-12 min. The MLSSV was determined from four or five treadmill runs of up to 30 min duration and defined as the highest velocity at which blood [La] increased by no more than 1.0 mM after between 10 and 30 min of exercise. Analysis of variance revealed no significant differences between [mean (SD)] CV [14.4 (1.1) km.h(-1)], MLSSV [13.8 (1.1) km.h(-1)] and LTPV [13.7 (0.6) km.h(-1)]. However, the bias +/-95% limits of agreement for comparisons between CV and MLSSV [0.6 (2.2) km.h(-1)], CV and LTPV [0.7 (2.7) km.h(-1)], and MLSSV and LTPV [0.1 (1.8) km.h(-1)] suggest that the extent of disagreement is too great to allow one variable to be estimated accurately from another in individual subjects. Direct determination of MLSSV is necessary if precision is required in experimental studies.
TL;DR: The study demonstrates the feasibility of accurate in vivo estimates of human muscle intrinsic strength, and agrees with in vitro results from fiber type I-predominant muscles.
Abstract: In this study, we estimated the specific tensions of soleus (Sol) and tibialis anterior (TA) muscles in six men. Joint moments were measured during maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) and during el...
TL;DR: In this article, clausal resolution is applied to nonclassical temporal logic, namely discrete linear temporal logic (DLTL), and a normal form for temporal formulae is defined, which can be translated into the normal form while preserving satisfiability.
Abstract: In this article, we examine how clausal resolution can be applied to a specific, but widely used, nonclassical logic, namely discrete linear temporal logic. Thus, we first define a normal form for temporal formulae and show how arbitrary temporal formulae can be translated into the normal form, while preserving satisfiability. We then introduce novel resolution rules that can be applied to formulae in this normal form, provide a range of examples, and examine the correctness and complexity of this approach. Finally, we describe related work and future developments concerning this work.
TL;DR: Bird species richness at points in forest fragments did not decline with fragment size, distance from the reserve, or forest quality, however, forest in fragments was more heavily degraded than forest within the reserve and poor forest quality may be the cause of declines in some species.
Abstract: Little of Brazil's remaining Atlantic forest is protected, so it is important to assess how well the region's wildlife can persist in areas/habitats outside reserves. We studied bird diversity and abundance during 546 point counts in the Sooretama/Linhares reserve, 200 point counts in 31 forest fragments (10- 150 h), and 50 point counts in <30-year-old Eucalyptus plantations, within 7 km of the reserve. Only eight bird species were recorded in Eucalyptus, and this impoverishment, as compared to some Eucalyptus plantations elsewhere in Brazil may be a result of intensive clearance of understory vegetation. Species diversity in forest fragments was significantly lower than in the reserve. Twelve, mostly non-forest or edge species, were significantly commoner in the fragments, but nineteen species were frequent in the reserve but rare or absent in forest fragments. These included two Pyrrhura parakeets, a Brotogeris parakeet, a trogon Trogon, a jacamar Galbula, woodpeckers Piculus and Campephilus, Myrmotherula antwrens, and Hemithraupus and Tachyphonus tanagers. Bird species richness at points in forest fragments did not decline with fragment size, distance from the reserve, or forest quality. However, forest in fragments was more heavily degraded than forest within the reserve and poor forest quality may be the cause of declines in some species. Whilst protection of forest within reserves is a priority, management of forest fragments may aid conservation of some threatened species.
TL;DR: In this article, surface analytical techniques provide the opportunity to measure and visualise surface roughness and its effect on microbial and organic soiling on a hitherto unavailable level of detection, namely, surface defects were more suited to soil retention than to microbial cell retention.
Abstract: Substratum surface roughness has a well documented effect on the retention of microorganisms. Implications of this encompass problems in hygiene, infection, fouling, equipment function, corrosion and cleanability. This paper reviews methods used for visualising surface topography and measuring roughness which are pertinent to microbiologists, and notes limitations of some of the descriptors of surface roughness. A major issue is the scale on which the surface defects are examined: measurements may now be made in nanometers, but the significance of surface texture at this scale in terms of microbial retention has yet to be investigated in detail. Stainless steel and ceramics are commonly used as hygienic food preparation surfaces. Their wear has been visualised, with roughness measured on a nanometer scale using the atomic force microscope (AFM), and the effect on surface wear of cleanability using microbial and organic soil investigated. Surface analytical methods such as X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and time of flight secondary ion mass spectroscopy (ToFSIMS) provided information on the chemical structure at the uppermost atomic layer and demonstrate that microorganisms were removed more rapidly than organic material from the worn surfaces, and that organic soil conditioned the surfaces prior to microbial contamination. On this scale, the dimensions of surface defects were more suited to soil retention than to microbial cell retention. Traditional microscopic methods were not able to differentiate adequately between soil and microbial removal. Surface analytical techniques provide the opportunity to measure and visualise surface roughness and its effect on microbial and organic soiling on a hitherto unavailable level of detection.
TL;DR: In this article, the development of velocity and temperature fields of an incompressible viscous electrically conducting fluid, caused by an impulsive stretching of the surface in two lateral directions and by suddenly increasing the surface temperature from that of the surrounding fluid, is studied.
Abstract: The development of velocity and temperature fields of an incompressible viscous electrically conducting fluid, caused by an impulsive stretching of the surface in two lateral directions and by suddenly increasing the surface temperature from that of the surrounding fluid, is studied. The partial differential equations governing the unsteady laminar boundary-layer flow are solved numerically using an implicit finite difference scheme. For some particular cases, closed form solutions are obtained, and for large values of the independent variable asymptotic solutions are found. The surface shear stresses inx-andy-directions and the surface heat transfer increase with the magnetic field and the stretching ratio, and there is a smooth transition from the short-time solution to the long-time solution.
TL;DR: The role of the knee appears to be one of maintaining the centre of mass height and enabling the power generated at the hip to be transferred to the ankle, with the plantar flexors producing the greatest peak power.
Abstract: To assess the role of the lower limb joints in generating velocity in the mid-acceleration phase of sprinting, muscle power patterns of the hip, knee and ankle were determined. Six male sprinters with a mean 100 m time of 10.75 s performed repeated maximal sprints along a 35 m indoor track. A complete stride across a force platform, positioned at approximately 14 m into the sprint, was video-recorded for analysis. Smoothed coordinate data were obtained from manual digitization of (50 Hz) video images and were then interpolated to match the sampling rate of the recorded ground reaction force (1000 Hz). The moment at each joint was then calculated using inverse dynamics and multiplied by the angular velocity to determine the muscle power. The results showed a proximal-to-distal timing in the generation of peak extensor power during stance at the hip, the knee and then the ankle, with the plantar flexors producing the greatest peak power. Apart from a moderate power generation peak towards toe-off, knee power was negligible despite a large extensor moment throughout stance. The role of the knee thus appears to be one of maintaining the centre of mass height and enabling the power generated at the hip to be transferred to the ankle.
TL;DR: The ethical considerations surrounding documentary analysis of email posts and archives for qualitative research, including issues of accessing voices, consent, privacy, anonymity, interpretation, and ownership and authorship of research material are outlined.
Abstract: The documentary analysis of email posts and archives for qualitative research has been outlined elsewhere (Murray & Sixsmith, 1998a; Murray and Sixsmith, in press). Although there is an increase in the number of studies being conducted on listserv and newsgroup material in health research, this has not always been accompanied by a careful, in-depth consideration of the concomitant ethical issues. Therefore, this article outlines the ethical considerations surrounding this form of research, including issues of: accessing voices, consent, privacy, anonymity, interpretation, and ownership and authorship of research material.
TL;DR: In this article, the results of a survey and focus group study conducted at Manchester Metropolitan University in February 1999 addressing the nature of this employment relationship are presented. But they do not address the potential conflict as students do articulate dislikes about their work and employment conditions and feel unable to challenge their employers about them.
Abstract: Employers’ demands for cheap and flexible labour which can multi‐task, make decisions and act responsibly are being met by an increasing supply of students to the part‐time labour market who are having to work due to financial necessity during term‐time. This article details the results of a survey and focus group study conducted at Manchester Metropolitan University in February 1999 addressing the nature of this employment relationship. Students’ employment provides them with advantages other than money – valuable work experience, the opportunity to meet people and to take on responsibility. Employers benefit from an easily recruited workforce of intelligent, articulate young people who are numerically and functionally flexible, conscientious, accepting relatively low pay, and who are easy to control. Potential conflict is indicated as students do articulate dislikes about their work and employment conditions, yet they feel unable to challenge their employers about them.
TL;DR: The recovery of high-energy phosphate levels in single human skeletal muscle fibres following short-term maximal (all-out) exercise was investigated and fibres were analysed for adenosine 5′-triphosphate, inosine-5′-monophosphate (IMP) and phosphocreatine (PCr) levels.
Abstract: The recovery of high-energy phosphate levels in single human skeletal muscle fibres following short-term maximal (all-out) exercise was investigated. Three male volunteers exercised maximally for 25 s on an isokinetic cycling ergometer. Muscle biopsy samples from the vastus lateralis were collected at rest, immediately post-exercise and at 1.5 min of recovery. The subjects also performed a second exercise bout 1.5 min after the first, on a separate occasion. Single muscle fibres were dissected, characterized and assigned to one of four groups according to their myosin heavy chain (MyHC) isoform content; namely, type I, IIA, IIAx and IIXa (the latter two groups containing either less or more than 50% IIX MyHC). Fibres were analysed for adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP), inosine-5'-monophosphate (IMP), phosphocreatine (PCr) and creatine (Cr) levels. Type I fibres had a lower Cr content than type II fibres (P<0.01). Within type II fibres resting [PCr] increased with increasing MyHC IIX isoform content (r=0.59, P<0.01). Post-exercise [PCr] was very low in all fibre groups (P<0.01 versus rest) while great reductions in ATP were also observed (P<0.01 versus rest), especially in the type II fibre groups. [PCr] at 1.5 min of recovery was still lower compared to rest for all fibre groups (P<0.01) especially in the IIAx and IIXa fibres.
TL;DR: It was indicated that countermovement jumps were performed with a consistent well-timed motion of the segments, and a "common drive," which acts without the knowledge of the muscle properties, was suggested as mediating and controlling the muscle activation timing between agonist-antagonist muscle pairs.
Abstract: PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to investigate the segmental coordination of vertical jumps under fatigue. METHODS: Twelve subjects performed maximal countermovement jumps with and without fatigue, which was imposed by maximal continuous jumps in place until their maximal jump height corresponded to 70% of the nonfatigued condition. Video, ground reaction forces, and electromyographic signals were recorded to analyze the segmental coordination of countermovement jumps before (CMJ1) and after (CMJ2) fatigue. The magnitude of joint extension initiation, peak joint angular velocity, and peak net power around the ankle, knee, and hip joints and their respective times were determined. RESULTS: CMJ2 was characterized by a longer contact time, which was accompanied with an earlier movement initiation and several differences (P < 0.05) in the variables used to describe coordination. When the movement duration was normalized with respect to the contact phase duration, the differences between CMJ1 and CMJ2 were not sustained. A consistent pattern was indicated, in which the segmental coordination did not differ between jump conditions. When the magnitude of the muscle activation was set aside, a remarkably consistent muscle activation time was noticed between conditions. CONCLUSIONS: It was indicated that countermovement jumps were performed with a consistent well-timed motion of the segments. A "common drive," which acts without the knowledge of the muscle properties, was suggested as mediating and controlling the muscle activation timing between agonist-antagonist muscle pairs.
TL;DR: The V̇O2 response to heavy exercise was dependent on the intensity of prior exercise, and the effects on the amplitudes of the phase II and slow V̧O2 components persisted for at least 12 min following prior heavy exercise.
Abstract: Prior heavy exercise (above the lactate threshold, LT) reduces the amplitude of the pulmonary oxygen uptake (VO2) slow component during heavy exercise, yet the precise effect of prior heavy exercise on the phase II VO2 response remains to be established. This study was designed to test the hypotheses that (1) prior heavy exercise increases the amplitude of the phase II VO2 response independently of changes in the baseline VO2 value and (2) the effect of prior exercise depends on the amount of external work done during prior exercise, irrespective of the intensity of the prior exercise. Nine subjects performed two 6 min bouts of heavy cycling exercise separated by 6 min baseline pedalling recovery (A), two 6 min heavy exercise bouts separated by 12 min recovery (6 min rest and 6 min baseline pedalling, B), and a bout of moderate exercise (below the LT) in which the same amount of external work was performed as during the prior heavy exercise, followed by 6 min heavy exercise (C). In both tests A and B, prior heavy exercise significantly increased the absolute VO2 amplitude at the end of phase II (by approximately 150 ml x min(-1)), and reduced the amplitude of the VO2 slow component by a similar amount. Following 12 min of recovery (B), baseline VO2, but not blood [lactate], had returned to pre-exercise levels, indicating that these effects occurred independently of changes in baseline VO2. Prior moderate exercise (C) had no effect on either the VO2 or blood [lactate] responses to subsequent heavy exercise. The VO2 response to heavy exercise was therefore dependent on the intensity of prior exercise, and the effects on the amplitudes of the phase II and slow VO2 components persisted for at least 12 min following prior heavy exercise.
TL;DR: A lengthy and intensive debate about the role of sociology in agent based social simulation dominated the email list simsoc@jiscmail.ac.uk during the autumn of 2000 and the positions of four of the main protagonists concerned specifically with the modelling issues are reprised and extended in this symposium.
Abstract: A lengthy and intensive debate about the role of sociology in agent based social simulation dominated the email list simsoc@jiscmail.ac.uk during the autumn of 2000. The debate turned on the importance of models being devised to capture the properties of whole social systems and whether those properties should determine agent behaviour or, conversely, whether the properties of social systems should emerge from the behaviour and interaction of the agents and, if so, how that emergence should be represented. The positions of four of the main protagonists concerned specifically with the modelling issues are reprised and extended in this symposium.
TL;DR: Kinematic analysis revealed that compared with verbal instructions or no instructions, visual demonstrations significantly improved participants' approximation of the model's coordination pattern, suggesting that the modeling effect is mainly a function of task constraints.
Abstract: In the present study, the efficacy of visual demonstrations and verbal instructions as instructional constraints on the acquisition of movement coordination was investigated. Fifteen participants performed an aiming task on 100 acquisition and 20 retention trials, under 1 of 3 conditions: a modeling group (MG), a verbally directed group (VDG), and a control group (CG). The MG observed a model intermittently throughout acquisition, whereas the VDG was verbally instructed to use the model's movement pattern. Participants in the CG received neither form of instruction. Kinematic analysis revealed that compared with verbal instructions or no instructions, visual demonstrations significantly improved participants' approximation of the model's coordination pattern. No differences were found in movement outcomes. Coordination data supported the visual perception perspective on observational learning, whereas outcome data suggested that the modeling effect is mainly a function of task constraints, that is, the novelty of a movement pattern.
TL;DR: In this article, the authors focus on the marketing mix of McDonald's and highlight how the company combines internationalisation and globalisation elements according to various fast food markets, using the effect of strategical and tactical models.
Abstract: Focuses on the marketing mix of McDonald’s. Highlights how the company combines internationalisation and globalisation elements according to various fast food markets. Using the effect of strategical and tactical models, the case illustrates the effect of McDonald’s on the global environment and how they adapt to local communities. Describes future franchise plans for McDonald’s.
TL;DR: In this article, the authors consider the reasons for a high turnover of staff in different industries before looking at the nature of commitment and provide some areas where improvements can lead to enhanced employee commitment.
Abstract: Considers the reasons for a high turnover of staff in different industries before looking at the nature of commitment. Provides some areas where improvements can lead to enhanced employee commitment and briefly looks at these issues in turn, e.g. pay, benefits, flexible work options and career development and training. Concludes that policies to encourage commitment need to become inherent within the culture of the organization to be successful.
01 Jan 2001
TL;DR: A prototype agent-based IAM is reported to demonstrate the usefulness and power of the agent based approach and to indicate concretely how that approach meets the criteria for good IAMs and to complex social issues more generally.
Abstract: Integrated assessment models (IAMs) have been widely applied to questions of climate change policy--such as the effects of abating greenhouse gas emissions, balancing impacts, adaptation and mitigation costs, understanding processes of adaptation, and evaluating the potential for technological solutions. In almost all cases, the social dimensions of climate policy are poorly represented. Econometric models look for efficient optimal solutions. Decision making perspectives might reflect broadscale cultural theory, but not the diversity of cognitive models in practice. Technological change is often ignored or exogenous, and without understanding of stakeholder strategies for innovation and diffusion. Policy measures are proposed from idealised perspectives, with little understanding of the constraints of individual decision makers. We suggest a set of criteria for IAMs that can be used to evaluate the choice and structure of models with respect to their suitability for understanding key climate change debates. The criteria are discussed for three classes of models-- optimising econometric models, dynamic simulation models and a proposed agent-based strategy. A prototype agent-based IAM is reported to demonstrate the usefulness and power of the agent based approach and to indicate concretely how that approach meets the criteria for good IAMs and to complex social issues more generally.
01 Jan 2001
TL;DR: Creating the environment for innovation innovation in ODL - lessons from experience and research teachers and flexible learning in traditional university settings promoting innovation in traditional settings low-cost online teaching experimenting with systems structures for online learning selecting an environment flexible toolboxes - a solution for online resources?
Abstract: Creating the environment for innovation innovation in ODL -lessons from experience and research teachers and flexible learning in traditional university settings promoting innovation in traditional settings low-cost online teaching experimenting with systems structures for online learning selecting an environment flexible toolboxes - a solution for online resources? lifelong learning and generating new learning experiences campus re-engineering student recruitment and retention using networking tools to support online learning mentoring issues towards flexible learning and learner support online assessment professional development in online education.
TL;DR: The present study showed that muscle oxygen uptake and energy turnover are elevated during dynamic contractions at a frequency of 100 compared with 60 r.p.m. and that Muscle oxygen uptake increased as exercise progressed in a manner that was not solely related to the increase in muscle temperature and lactate accumulation.
Abstract: 1. It has been established that pulmonary oxygen uptake is greater during cycle exercise in humans at high compared to low contraction frequencies. However, it is unclear whether this is due to more work being performed at the high frequencies and whether the energy turnover of the working muscles is higher. The present study tested the hypothesis that human skeletal muscle oxygen uptake and energy turnover are elevated during exercise at high compared to low contraction frequency when the total power output is the same. 2. Seven subjects performed single-leg dynamic knee-extensor exercise for 10 min at contraction frequencies of 60 and 100 r.p.m. where the total power output (comprising the sum of external and internal power output) was matched between frequencies (54 +/- 5 vs. 56 +/- 5 W; mean +/- S.E.M.). Muscle oxygen uptake was determined from measurements of thigh blood flow and femoral arterial - venous differences for oxygen content (a-v O(2) diff). Anaerobic energy turnover was estimated from measurements of lactate release and muscle lactate accumulation as well as muscle ATP and phosphocreatine (PCr) utilisation based on analysis of muscle biopsies obtained before and after each exercise bout. 3. Whilst a-v O(2) diff was the same between contraction frequencies during exercise, thigh blood flow was higher (P < 0.05) at 100 compared to 60 r.p.m. Thus, muscle V(O2) was higher (P < 0.05) during exercise at 100 r.p.m. Muscle V(O2) increased (P < 0.05) by 0.06 +/- 0.03 (12 %) and 0.09 +/- 0.03 l min(-1) (14 %) from the third minute to the end of exercise at 60 and 100 r.p.m., respectively, but there was no difference between the two frequencies. 4. Muscle PCr decreased by 8.1 +/- 1.7 and 9.1 +/- 2.0 mmol (kg wet wt)(-1), and muscle lactate increased to 6.8 +/- 2.1 and 9.8 +/- 2.5 mmol (kg wet wt)(-1) during exercise at 60 and 100 r.p.m., respectively. The total release of lactate during exercise was 48.7 +/- 8.8 and 64.3 +/- 10.6 mmol at 60 and 100 r.p.m. (not significant, NS). The total anaerobic ATP production was 47 +/- 8 and 61 +/- 12 mmol kg(-1), respectively (NS). 5. Muscle temperature increased (P < 0.05) from 35.8 +/- 0.3 to 38.2 +/- 0.2 degrees C at 60 r.p.m. and from 35.9 +/- 0.3 to 38.4 +/- 0.3 degrees C at 100 r.p.m. Between 1 and 7 min muscle temperature was higher (P < 0.05) at 100 compared to 60 r.p.m. 6. The estimated mean rate of energy turnover during exercise was higher (P < 0.05) at 100 compared to 60 r.p.m. (238 +/- 16 vs. 194 +/- 11 J s(-1)). Thus, mechanical efficiency was lower (P < 0.05) at 100 r.p.m. (24 +/- 2 %) compared to 60 r.p.m. (28 +/- 3 %). Correspondingly, efficiency expressed as work per mol ATP was lower (P < 0.05) at 100 than at 60 r.p.m. (22.5 +/- 2.1 vs. 26.5 +/- 2.5 J (mmol ATP)(-1)). 7. The present study showed that muscle oxygen uptake and energy turnover are elevated during dynamic contractions at a frequency of 100 compared with 60 r.p.m. It was also observed that muscle oxygen uptake increased as exercise progressed in a manner that was not solely related to the increase in muscle temperature and lactate accumulation.