University of Salford

About: University of Salford is a education organization based out in Salford, Manchester, United Kingdom. It is known for research contribution in the topics: Population & Thin film. The organization has 13049 authors who have published 22957 publications receiving 537330 citations. The organization is also known as: University of Salford Manchester & The University of Salford Manchester.

The relationship between balance, disability, and recovery after stroke: predictive validity of the Brunel Balance Assessment.

Abstract: Objective. To examine the influence of balance disability on function and the recovery of function after stroke and consequently to assess the predictive validity of the Brunel Balance Assessment (BBA). Methods. Cross-sectional study of 102 patients admitted consecutively to 6 National Health Service hospitals with weakness 2 to 4 weeks after their first anterior circulation stroke; 75 of whom completed follow-up assessment at 3 months. The BBA was assessed during admission and compared to the Barthel Index and Rivermead Mobility Index at 3 months. Results. Balance disability was the strongest predictor of function (in terms of activities of daily living [ADLs] and mobility disability) in the acute stages. Weakness was also an independent predictor. Recovery of ADLs was independently predicted by balance disability, weakness, age, and premorbid disability, whereas recovery of mobility disability was predicted by balance and age alone. At 3 months, a minority of people with limited sitting balance (0%-22%) and standing balance (25%-50%) recovered independent functional mobility. Most people who could walk initially recovered independent functional mobility (66%-84%), but 16% suffered a decline in their mobility and 44% had enduring limitations in everyday mobility activities. Conclusion. Initial balance disability is a strong predictor of function and recovery after stroke. These results demonstrate the predictive validity of the BBA.

Sentiment in the betting market on Spanish football

Abstract: We employ a sample of over 3000 bets available on matches from the top tier of Spanish football in an examination of the efficiency of betting odds offered in the on-line betting market. Odds appear to be influenced by the relative number of fans of each club in a match, with supporters of the more popular team offered more favourable terms on their wagers. We report similar findings for a sample of games from Scotland. The results contrast with studies of American sports betting markets but are consistent with competitive behaviour by profit maximizing bookmakers in a market where bettors can choose between several operators.

Universities, localities and regional development : the emergence of the “mode 2” university?

Abstract: There has long been a tension between the roles of the university in servicing the needs of sub-national economies and civil societies, those of the national state and those of learning and the pursuit of knowledge in an abstract sense. The position in liberal democracies through much of the twentieth century can be accurately characterized by a significant degree of separation and segregation between the university, the state and the market. Recently, however, it has been posited that the balance is shifting away from relative autonomy towards a new 'mode of knowledge production' in which the growing engagement of universities with their regions and localities is an important aspect. The first part of this article explores the knowledge economy rhetorics which have come to dominate public policy rationales in many liberal democracies and interrelationships with questions of territory and scale. Second, the implications for universities are considered as they are confronted by a number of challenges and choices in navigating the waters of increasing societal expectations. Finally, the article highlights key questions that emerge from our preliminary overview of these issues within a wider research agenda around universities, the knowledge economy and regional development.

Construction beyond lean: a new understanding of construction management

Abstract: Lean Construction has existed in its own right for more than ten years. At the same time the five lean principles as outlined by Womack and Jones have gained a firm foothold in the manufacturing industries, and the term lean has thus become a hous ehold term in manufacturing. Unfortunately and confusingly, the understanding of lean has taken very different trajectories in these two communities. In manufacturing , it is often voiced that the (five) lean principles provide a mature understanding of the subject, i.e. the end point. However, in the same time the theory based understanding of construction management has moved beyond the generic lean theories and principles, embodied in the Toyota Production System, to encompass disciplines such as complexity, emergence, conversations, and lifelong learning. In construction, the Toyota Production System is thus rather a starting point. The paper establishes an overview of the principles guiding best practice project management today, and argues that lean construction has progressed beyond lean – at least in the sense propagated by Womack and Jones.