A preliminary study of the effect of groundwater flow on the thermal front created by borehole heat exchangers
- Tolooiyan, Ali, Hemmingway, Phil
- Authors: Tolooiyan, Ali , Hemmingway, Phil
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: International Journal of Low-Carbon Technologies Vol. 9, no. 4 (2014), p. 284-295
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: An analysis of the effects that groundwater flow has on the thermal regime created by a ground source energy system is presented. The change in the development of the sub-surface thermal regime caused by a groundwater flow across a site, relative to a scenario where groundwater flow does not exist, is examined. Analysis is performed using bespoke finite-element formulations of both single- and multi-borehole systems. The results of this work show that even a modest groundwater flow across a site can lead to a significant change in the development of the sub-surface thermal regime.
- Authors: Tolooiyan, Ali , Hemmingway, Phil
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: International Journal of Low-Carbon Technologies Vol. 9, no. 4 (2014), p. 284-295
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: An analysis of the effects that groundwater flow has on the thermal regime created by a ground source energy system is presented. The change in the development of the sub-surface thermal regime caused by a groundwater flow across a site, relative to a scenario where groundwater flow does not exist, is examined. Analysis is performed using bespoke finite-element formulations of both single- and multi-borehole systems. The results of this work show that even a modest groundwater flow across a site can lead to a significant change in the development of the sub-surface thermal regime.
A quadtree-based scaled boundary finite element method for crack propagation modelling
- Ooi, Ean Tat, Man, Hou, Natarajan, Sundararajan, Song, Chongmin, Tin-Loi, Francis
- Authors: Ooi, Ean Tat , Man, Hou , Natarajan, Sundararajan , Song, Chongmin , Tin-Loi, Francis
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Conference paper
- Relation: 23rd Australasian Conference on the Mechanics of Structures and Materials, Byron Bay, NSW, 9-12 December, Southern Cross University, Lismore, NSW, p. 813-818
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: The quadtree is a hierarchical-type data structure where each parent is recursively divided into four children. This structure makes it particularly efficient for adaptive mesh refinement in regions with localised gradients. Compared with unstructured triangles, mesh generation is more efficient using quadtree decompositions. The finite number of patterns in the quadtree decomposition makes it efficient for data storage and retrieval. Motivated by these advantages, a crack propagation modelling approach using a quadtree-based scaled boundary finite element method (SBFEM) is developed. Starting from the formulation of an arbitrary n-sided polygon element, each quadrant in the quadtree mesh is treated as a polygon within the framework of the SBFEM. Special techniques to treat the hanging nodes are not necessary. Moreover, the SBFEM enables accurate calculation of the stress intensity factors directly from its solutions without local mesh refinement or asymptotic enrichment functions. When a crack propagates, it is only necessary to split each quadrant cut by the crack into two. These quadrants are polygons that can be directly modelled by the SBFEM. Changes to the mesh are minimal. The efficiency of this approach is demonstrated using numerical benchmarks.
- Authors: Ooi, Ean Tat , Man, Hou , Natarajan, Sundararajan , Song, Chongmin , Tin-Loi, Francis
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Conference paper
- Relation: 23rd Australasian Conference on the Mechanics of Structures and Materials, Byron Bay, NSW, 9-12 December, Southern Cross University, Lismore, NSW, p. 813-818
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: The quadtree is a hierarchical-type data structure where each parent is recursively divided into four children. This structure makes it particularly efficient for adaptive mesh refinement in regions with localised gradients. Compared with unstructured triangles, mesh generation is more efficient using quadtree decompositions. The finite number of patterns in the quadtree decomposition makes it efficient for data storage and retrieval. Motivated by these advantages, a crack propagation modelling approach using a quadtree-based scaled boundary finite element method (SBFEM) is developed. Starting from the formulation of an arbitrary n-sided polygon element, each quadrant in the quadtree mesh is treated as a polygon within the framework of the SBFEM. Special techniques to treat the hanging nodes are not necessary. Moreover, the SBFEM enables accurate calculation of the stress intensity factors directly from its solutions without local mesh refinement or asymptotic enrichment functions. When a crack propagates, it is only necessary to split each quadrant cut by the crack into two. These quadrants are polygons that can be directly modelled by the SBFEM. Changes to the mesh are minimal. The efficiency of this approach is demonstrated using numerical benchmarks.
A randomized head to head trial of MoodSwings.net.au: An internet based self-help program for bipolar disorder
- Lauder, Sue, Chester, Andrea, Castle, David, Dodd, Seetal, Gliddon, Emma, Berk, Lesley, Chamberlain, James, Klein, Britt, Gilbert, Monica, Austin, David, Berk, Michael
- Authors: Lauder, Sue , Chester, Andrea , Castle, David , Dodd, Seetal , Gliddon, Emma , Berk, Lesley , Chamberlain, James , Klein, Britt , Gilbert, Monica , Austin, David , Berk, Michael
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of Affective Disorders Vol. 171, no. (2014), p. 13-21
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- Description: Background Adjunctive psychosocial interventions are efficacious in bipolar disorder, but their incorporation into routine management plans are often confounded by cost and access constraints. We report here a comparative evaluation of two online programs hosted on a single website (www.moodswings.net.au). A basic version, called MoodSwings (MS), contains psychoeducation material and asynchronous discussion boards; and a more interactive program, MoodSwings Plus (MS-Plus), combined the basic psychoeducation material and discussion boards with elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. These programs were evaluated in a head-to-head study design. Method Participants with Bipolar I or II disorder (n=156) were randomized to receive either MoodSwings or MoodSwings-Plus. Outcomes included mood symptoms, the occurrence of relapse, functionality, Locus of Control, social support, quality of life and medication adherence. Results Participants in both groups showed baseline to endpoint reductions in mood symptoms and improvements in functionality, quality of life and medication adherence. The MoodSwings-Plus group showed a greater number of within-group changes on symptoms and functioning in depression and mania, quality of life and social support, across both poles of the illness. MoodSwings-Plus was superior to MoodSwings in improvement on symptoms of mania scores at 12 months (p=0.02) but not on the incidence of recurrence. Limitations The study did not have an attention control group and therefore could not demonstrate efficacy of the two active arms. There was notable (81%) attrition by 12 months from baseline. Conclusion This study suggests that both CBT and psychoeducation delivered online may have utility in the management of bipolar disorder. They are feasible, readily accepted, and associated with improvement. © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
- Authors: Lauder, Sue , Chester, Andrea , Castle, David , Dodd, Seetal , Gliddon, Emma , Berk, Lesley , Chamberlain, James , Klein, Britt , Gilbert, Monica , Austin, David , Berk, Michael
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of Affective Disorders Vol. 171, no. (2014), p. 13-21
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Background Adjunctive psychosocial interventions are efficacious in bipolar disorder, but their incorporation into routine management plans are often confounded by cost and access constraints. We report here a comparative evaluation of two online programs hosted on a single website (www.moodswings.net.au). A basic version, called MoodSwings (MS), contains psychoeducation material and asynchronous discussion boards; and a more interactive program, MoodSwings Plus (MS-Plus), combined the basic psychoeducation material and discussion boards with elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. These programs were evaluated in a head-to-head study design. Method Participants with Bipolar I or II disorder (n=156) were randomized to receive either MoodSwings or MoodSwings-Plus. Outcomes included mood symptoms, the occurrence of relapse, functionality, Locus of Control, social support, quality of life and medication adherence. Results Participants in both groups showed baseline to endpoint reductions in mood symptoms and improvements in functionality, quality of life and medication adherence. The MoodSwings-Plus group showed a greater number of within-group changes on symptoms and functioning in depression and mania, quality of life and social support, across both poles of the illness. MoodSwings-Plus was superior to MoodSwings in improvement on symptoms of mania scores at 12 months (p=0.02) but not on the incidence of recurrence. Limitations The study did not have an attention control group and therefore could not demonstrate efficacy of the two active arms. There was notable (81%) attrition by 12 months from baseline. Conclusion This study suggests that both CBT and psychoeducation delivered online may have utility in the management of bipolar disorder. They are feasible, readily accepted, and associated with improvement. © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
A scaled boundary polygon formulation for elasto-plastic analyses
- Ooi, Ean Tat, Song, Chongmin, Tin-Loi, Francis
- Authors: Ooi, Ean Tat , Song, Chongmin , Tin-Loi, Francis
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Computer Methods in Applied Mechanics and Engineering Vol. 268, no. (January 2014 2014), p. 905-937
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: This study presents a novel scaled boundary polygon formulation to model elasto-plastic material responses in structures. The polygons have flexible mesh generation capabilities and are more accurate than standard finite elements, especially for problems with cracks and notches. Shape functions of arbitrary n-sided polygons are constructed using the scaled boundary finite element method. These shape functions are conforming and linearly complete. When modeling a crack, strain singularities are analytically modeled without enrichment. Standard finite element procedures are used to formulate the stiffness matrix and residual load vector. The nonlinear material constitutive matrix and the internal stresses are approximated locally in each polygon by a polynomial function. The stiffness matrix and the residual load vector are matrix power integrals that can be evaluated analytically even when a strain singularity is present. Standard nonlinear equation solvers e.g. the modified Newton–Raphson algorithm are used to obtain the nonlinear response of the structure. The proposed formulation is validated using several numerical benchmarks.
- Authors: Ooi, Ean Tat , Song, Chongmin , Tin-Loi, Francis
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Computer Methods in Applied Mechanics and Engineering Vol. 268, no. (January 2014 2014), p. 905-937
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: This study presents a novel scaled boundary polygon formulation to model elasto-plastic material responses in structures. The polygons have flexible mesh generation capabilities and are more accurate than standard finite elements, especially for problems with cracks and notches. Shape functions of arbitrary n-sided polygons are constructed using the scaled boundary finite element method. These shape functions are conforming and linearly complete. When modeling a crack, strain singularities are analytically modeled without enrichment. Standard finite element procedures are used to formulate the stiffness matrix and residual load vector. The nonlinear material constitutive matrix and the internal stresses are approximated locally in each polygon by a polynomial function. The stiffness matrix and the residual load vector are matrix power integrals that can be evaluated analytically even when a strain singularity is present. Standard nonlinear equation solvers e.g. the modified Newton–Raphson algorithm are used to obtain the nonlinear response of the structure. The proposed formulation is validated using several numerical benchmarks.
A seven day running training period increases basal urinary hepcidin levels as compared to cycling
- Sim, Marc, Dawson, Brian, Landers, Grant, Swinkels, Dorine, Tjalsma, Harold, Wiegerinck, Erwin, Trinder, Debbie, Peeling, Peter
- Authors: Sim, Marc , Dawson, Brian , Landers, Grant , Swinkels, Dorine , Tjalsma, Harold , Wiegerinck, Erwin , Trinder, Debbie , Peeling, Peter
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition Vol. 11, no. 1 (2014), p. 1-9
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- Description: BACKGROUND: This investigation compared the effects of an extended period of weight-bearing (running) vs. non-weight-bearing (cycling) exercise on hepcidin production and its implications for iron status. METHODS: Ten active males performed two separate exercise training blocks with either running (RTB) or cycling (CTB) as the exercise mode. Each block consisted of five training sessions (Day 1, 2, 4, 5, 6) performed over a seven day period that were matched for exercise intensity. Basal venous blood samples were obtained on Day 1 (D1), and on Recovery Days 3 (R3) and 7 (R7) to assess iron status, while basal and 3 h post-exercise urinary hepcidin levels were measured on D1, D2, D6, as well as R3 and R7 (basal levels only) for each condition. RESULTS: Basal urinary hepcidin levels were significantly elevated (p
- Authors: Sim, Marc , Dawson, Brian , Landers, Grant , Swinkels, Dorine , Tjalsma, Harold , Wiegerinck, Erwin , Trinder, Debbie , Peeling, Peter
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition Vol. 11, no. 1 (2014), p. 1-9
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: BACKGROUND: This investigation compared the effects of an extended period of weight-bearing (running) vs. non-weight-bearing (cycling) exercise on hepcidin production and its implications for iron status. METHODS: Ten active males performed two separate exercise training blocks with either running (RTB) or cycling (CTB) as the exercise mode. Each block consisted of five training sessions (Day 1, 2, 4, 5, 6) performed over a seven day period that were matched for exercise intensity. Basal venous blood samples were obtained on Day 1 (D1), and on Recovery Days 3 (R3) and 7 (R7) to assess iron status, while basal and 3 h post-exercise urinary hepcidin levels were measured on D1, D2, D6, as well as R3 and R7 (basal levels only) for each condition. RESULTS: Basal urinary hepcidin levels were significantly elevated (p
A systematic review of core implementation components in team ball sport injury prevention trials
- O'Brien, James, Finch, Caroline
- Authors: O'Brien, James , Finch, Caroline
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Injury Prevention Vol. 20, no. 5 (2014), p.357-362
- Relation: http://purl.org/au-research/grants/nhmrc/565900
- Relation: http://purl.org/au-research/grants/nhmrc/1058737
- Full Text:
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- Description: Abstract BACKGROUND: Recently, the use of specific exercise programmes to prevent musculoskeletal injuries in team ball sports has gained considerable attention, and the results of large-scale, randomised controlled trials have supported their efficacy. To enhance the translation of these interventions into widespread use, research trials must be reported in a way that allows the players, staff and policymakers associated with sports teams to implement these interventions effectively. In particular, information is needed on core implementation components, which represent the essential and indispensable aspects of successful implementation. OBJECTIVES: To assess the extent to which team ball sport injury prevention trial reports have reported the core implementation components of the intervention, the intervention target and the use of any delivery agents (ie, staff or other personnel delivering the intervention). To summarise which specific types of intervention, intervention target and delivery agents are reported. To develop consensus between reviewers on the reporting of these components. METHODS: Six electronic databases were systematically searched for English-language, peer-reviewed papers on injury prevention exercise programme (IPEP) trials in team ball sports. The reporting of all eligible trials was assessed by two independent reviewers. The reporting of the three core implementation components were coded as 'yes', 'no' or 'unclear'. For cases coded as 'yes', the specific types of interventions, intervention targets and delivery agents were extracted and summarised. RESULTS: The search strategy identified 52 eligible trials. The intervention and the intervention target were reported in all 52 trials. The reporting of 25 trials (48%) specified the use of delivery agents, the reporting of three trials (6%) specified not using delivery agents, and in the reporting of the remaining 24 trials (46%) the use of delivery agents was unclear. The reported intervention type was an IPEP alone in 43 trials (83%), education/instruction in how to deliver an IPEP in three trials (6%) and multiple types of interventions (including an IPEP) in six trials (12%). Players were the most commonly reported intervention target (88%, n=46), followed by multiple targets (8%, n=4) and coaches (4%, n=2). Of the 25 trials for which delivery agents were reported, 13 (52%) reported a single type of delivery agent and 12 (48%) multiple types. The types of delivery agents reported included coaches, physiotherapists, athletic trainers and team captains. CONCLUSIONS: The current reporting of core implementation components in team ball sport IPEP trials is inadequate. In many trial reports, it is unclear whether researchers delivered the IPEP directly to players themselves or engaged delivery agents (eg, coaches, physiotherapists, athletic trainers) to deliver the programme. When researchers do interact with delivery agents, the education/instruction of delivery agents should be acknowledged as an intervention component and the delivery agents as an intervention target. Detailed reporting of implementation components in team ball sport IPEP trials will facilitate the successful replication of these interventions by intended users in practice and by researchers in other studies.
- Authors: O'Brien, James , Finch, Caroline
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Injury Prevention Vol. 20, no. 5 (2014), p.357-362
- Relation: http://purl.org/au-research/grants/nhmrc/565900
- Relation: http://purl.org/au-research/grants/nhmrc/1058737
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Abstract BACKGROUND: Recently, the use of specific exercise programmes to prevent musculoskeletal injuries in team ball sports has gained considerable attention, and the results of large-scale, randomised controlled trials have supported their efficacy. To enhance the translation of these interventions into widespread use, research trials must be reported in a way that allows the players, staff and policymakers associated with sports teams to implement these interventions effectively. In particular, information is needed on core implementation components, which represent the essential and indispensable aspects of successful implementation. OBJECTIVES: To assess the extent to which team ball sport injury prevention trial reports have reported the core implementation components of the intervention, the intervention target and the use of any delivery agents (ie, staff or other personnel delivering the intervention). To summarise which specific types of intervention, intervention target and delivery agents are reported. To develop consensus between reviewers on the reporting of these components. METHODS: Six electronic databases were systematically searched for English-language, peer-reviewed papers on injury prevention exercise programme (IPEP) trials in team ball sports. The reporting of all eligible trials was assessed by two independent reviewers. The reporting of the three core implementation components were coded as 'yes', 'no' or 'unclear'. For cases coded as 'yes', the specific types of interventions, intervention targets and delivery agents were extracted and summarised. RESULTS: The search strategy identified 52 eligible trials. The intervention and the intervention target were reported in all 52 trials. The reporting of 25 trials (48%) specified the use of delivery agents, the reporting of three trials (6%) specified not using delivery agents, and in the reporting of the remaining 24 trials (46%) the use of delivery agents was unclear. The reported intervention type was an IPEP alone in 43 trials (83%), education/instruction in how to deliver an IPEP in three trials (6%) and multiple types of interventions (including an IPEP) in six trials (12%). Players were the most commonly reported intervention target (88%, n=46), followed by multiple targets (8%, n=4) and coaches (4%, n=2). Of the 25 trials for which delivery agents were reported, 13 (52%) reported a single type of delivery agent and 12 (48%) multiple types. The types of delivery agents reported included coaches, physiotherapists, athletic trainers and team captains. CONCLUSIONS: The current reporting of core implementation components in team ball sport IPEP trials is inadequate. In many trial reports, it is unclear whether researchers delivered the IPEP directly to players themselves or engaged delivery agents (eg, coaches, physiotherapists, athletic trainers) to deliver the programme. When researchers do interact with delivery agents, the education/instruction of delivery agents should be acknowledged as an intervention component and the delivery agents as an intervention target. Detailed reporting of implementation components in team ball sport IPEP trials will facilitate the successful replication of these interventions by intended users in practice and by researchers in other studies.
A technique for parallel share-frequent sensor pattern mining from wireless sensor networks
- Rashid, Md. Mamunur, Gondal, Iqbal, Kamruzzaman, Joarder
- Authors: Rashid, Md. Mamunur , Gondal, Iqbal , Kamruzzaman, Joarder
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Conference paper
- Relation: 14th Annual International Conference on Computational Science, ICCS 2014; Cairns, Australia; 10th-12th June 2014; published in Procedia Computer Science p. 124-133
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: WSNs generate huge amount of data in the form of streams and mining useful knowledge from these streams is a challenging task. Existing works generate sensor association rules using occurrence frequency of patterns with binary frequency (either absent or present) or support of a pattern as a criterion. However, considering the binary frequency or support of a pattern may not be a sufficient indicator for finding meaningful patterns from WSN data because it only reflects the number of epochs in the sensor data which contain that pattern. The share measure of sensorsets could discover useful knowledge about numerical values associated with sensor in a sensor database. Therefore, in this paper, we propose a new type of behavioral pattern called share-frequent sensor patterns by considering the non-binary frequency values of sensors in epochs. To discover share-frequent sensor patterns from sensor dataset, we propose a novel parallel technique. In this technique, we develop a novel tree structure, called parallel share-frequent sensor pattern tree (PShrFSP-tree) that is constructed at each local node independently, by capturing the database contents to generate the candidate patterns using a pattern growth technique with a single scan and then merges the locally generated candidate patterns at the final stage to generate global share-frequent sensor patterns. Comprehensive experimental results show that our proposed model is very efficient for mining share-frequent patterns from WSN data in terms of time and scalability.
- Authors: Rashid, Md. Mamunur , Gondal, Iqbal , Kamruzzaman, Joarder
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Conference paper
- Relation: 14th Annual International Conference on Computational Science, ICCS 2014; Cairns, Australia; 10th-12th June 2014; published in Procedia Computer Science p. 124-133
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: WSNs generate huge amount of data in the form of streams and mining useful knowledge from these streams is a challenging task. Existing works generate sensor association rules using occurrence frequency of patterns with binary frequency (either absent or present) or support of a pattern as a criterion. However, considering the binary frequency or support of a pattern may not be a sufficient indicator for finding meaningful patterns from WSN data because it only reflects the number of epochs in the sensor data which contain that pattern. The share measure of sensorsets could discover useful knowledge about numerical values associated with sensor in a sensor database. Therefore, in this paper, we propose a new type of behavioral pattern called share-frequent sensor patterns by considering the non-binary frequency values of sensors in epochs. To discover share-frequent sensor patterns from sensor dataset, we propose a novel parallel technique. In this technique, we develop a novel tree structure, called parallel share-frequent sensor pattern tree (PShrFSP-tree) that is constructed at each local node independently, by capturing the database contents to generate the candidate patterns using a pattern growth technique with a single scan and then merges the locally generated candidate patterns at the final stage to generate global share-frequent sensor patterns. Comprehensive experimental results show that our proposed model is very efficient for mining share-frequent patterns from WSN data in terms of time and scalability.
About [q]-regularity properties of collections of sets
- Kruger, Alexander, Thao, Nguyen
- Authors: Kruger, Alexander , Thao, Nguyen
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of Mathematical Analysis and Applications Vol. 416, no. 2 (2014), p. 471-496
- Relation: http://purl.org/au-research/grants/arc/DP110102011
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: We examine three primal space local Holder type regularity properties of finite collections of sets, namely, [q]-semiregularity, [q]-subregularity, and uniform [q]-regularity as well as their quantitative characterizations. Equivalent metric characterizations of the three mentioned regularity properties as well as a sufficient condition of [q]-subregularity in terms of Frechet normals are established. The relationships between [q]-regularity properties of collections of sets and the corresponding regularity properties of set-valued mappings are discussed.
- Description: We examine three primal space local Holder type regularity properties of finite collections of sets, namely, [q]-semiregularity, [q]-subregularity, and uniform [q]-regularity as well as their quantitative characterizations. Equivalent metric characterizations of the three mentioned regularity properties as well as a sufficient condition of [q]-subregularity in terms of Frechet normals are established. The relationships between [q]-regularity properties of collections of sets and the corresponding regularity properties of set-valued mappings are discussed. (C) 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
- Authors: Kruger, Alexander , Thao, Nguyen
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of Mathematical Analysis and Applications Vol. 416, no. 2 (2014), p. 471-496
- Relation: http://purl.org/au-research/grants/arc/DP110102011
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: We examine three primal space local Holder type regularity properties of finite collections of sets, namely, [q]-semiregularity, [q]-subregularity, and uniform [q]-regularity as well as their quantitative characterizations. Equivalent metric characterizations of the three mentioned regularity properties as well as a sufficient condition of [q]-subregularity in terms of Frechet normals are established. The relationships between [q]-regularity properties of collections of sets and the corresponding regularity properties of set-valued mappings are discussed.
- Description: We examine three primal space local Holder type regularity properties of finite collections of sets, namely, [q]-semiregularity, [q]-subregularity, and uniform [q]-regularity as well as their quantitative characterizations. Equivalent metric characterizations of the three mentioned regularity properties as well as a sufficient condition of [q]-subregularity in terms of Frechet normals are established. The relationships between [q]-regularity properties of collections of sets and the corresponding regularity properties of set-valued mappings are discussed. (C) 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Abrasion injuries on artificial turf : A real risk or not?
- Twomey, Dara, Petrass, Lauren, Fleming, Paul
- Authors: Twomey, Dara , Petrass, Lauren , Fleming, Paul
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: South African Journal of Sports Medicine Vol. 26, no. 3 (2014), p. 91-92
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Abrasion injuries result in damage only to the surface layer of skin and can result in player discomfort and changes in performance. The perceived fear of abrasion injuries on artificial turf playing surfaces has significantly affected the adoption of these surfaces, particularly in sports that involve frequent player-surface interactions. The underreporting of abrasion injuries due to how time-loss injuries are defined and the lack of validity of the current abrasion measurement device highlight the need for more research to understand fully the incidence and nature of abrasions on artificial turf playing surfaces and the effect of these injuries on playing behaviour. Improved reporting of abrasion injuries and a more biofidelic test device could assist in both the development of abrasion-related injury prevention strategies and in dispelling players’ negative perceptions of abrasions on artificial turf.
- Authors: Twomey, Dara , Petrass, Lauren , Fleming, Paul
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: South African Journal of Sports Medicine Vol. 26, no. 3 (2014), p. 91-92
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Abrasion injuries result in damage only to the surface layer of skin and can result in player discomfort and changes in performance. The perceived fear of abrasion injuries on artificial turf playing surfaces has significantly affected the adoption of these surfaces, particularly in sports that involve frequent player-surface interactions. The underreporting of abrasion injuries due to how time-loss injuries are defined and the lack of validity of the current abrasion measurement device highlight the need for more research to understand fully the incidence and nature of abrasions on artificial turf playing surfaces and the effect of these injuries on playing behaviour. Improved reporting of abrasion injuries and a more biofidelic test device could assist in both the development of abrasion-related injury prevention strategies and in dispelling players’ negative perceptions of abrasions on artificial turf.
Accounting and Slavery: the case of Companhia Geral do Grão Pará e Maranhão (1755-1778)
- Authors: Pinto, Ofelia
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Contrary to the traditional view of accounting as a neutral technical practice, recent studies have increasingly viewed this technology as being social and institutional in both its orientation and effects. An important outcome of these portrayals of accounting’s decisive influence within organisations and broader contexts has been to highlight the enabling role it has played within significant historical events. This has included exploration of what has been termed the “dark side” of accounting: abhorrent episodes from human history in which accounting has been implicated. Slavery is one such episode. Adopting the conception of accounting as a social and institutional practice, this interpretative historical study applies the concept of “action at a distance” and previous literature on the interrelations between accounting and the state as a conceptual framework to critically analyse the accounting practices that were developed and adopted by the Companhia Geral do Grão Pará e Maranhão, a Portuguese company established primarily for the purpose of trading in human beings (slaves) in the second half of the 18th century. As well as providing a novel addition to the literature dealing with the “dark side” of accounting, this archive-based case study also sheds further light on accounting’s potential to act as a powerful agent of social change, including its facilitation of episodes of human misery.
- Description: Doctor of Philsophy
- Authors: Pinto, Ofelia
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Contrary to the traditional view of accounting as a neutral technical practice, recent studies have increasingly viewed this technology as being social and institutional in both its orientation and effects. An important outcome of these portrayals of accounting’s decisive influence within organisations and broader contexts has been to highlight the enabling role it has played within significant historical events. This has included exploration of what has been termed the “dark side” of accounting: abhorrent episodes from human history in which accounting has been implicated. Slavery is one such episode. Adopting the conception of accounting as a social and institutional practice, this interpretative historical study applies the concept of “action at a distance” and previous literature on the interrelations between accounting and the state as a conceptual framework to critically analyse the accounting practices that were developed and adopted by the Companhia Geral do Grão Pará e Maranhão, a Portuguese company established primarily for the purpose of trading in human beings (slaves) in the second half of the 18th century. As well as providing a novel addition to the literature dealing with the “dark side” of accounting, this archive-based case study also sheds further light on accounting’s potential to act as a powerful agent of social change, including its facilitation of episodes of human misery.
- Description: Doctor of Philsophy
Acute exercise leads to regulation of Telomere-Associated genes and MicroRNA expression in immune Cells
- Chilton, Warrick, Marques, Francine, West, Jenny, Kannourakis, George, Berzins, Stuart, O'Brien, Brendan, Charchar, Fadi
- Authors: Chilton, Warrick , Marques, Francine , West, Jenny , Kannourakis, George , Berzins, Stuart , O'Brien, Brendan , Charchar, Fadi
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: PloS One Vol. 9, no. 4 (2014), p. e92088
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Telomeres are specialized nucleoprotein structures that protect chromosomal ends from degradation. These structures progressively shorten during cellular division and can signal replicative senescence below a critical length. Telomere length is predominantly maintained by the enzyme telomerase. Significant decreases in telomere length and telomerase activity are associated with a host of chronic diseases; conversely their maintenance underpins the optimal function of the adaptive immune system. Habitual physical activity is associated with longer leukocyte telomere length; however, the precise mechanisms are unclear. Potential hypotheses include regulation of telomeric gene transcription and/or microRNAs (miRNAs). We investigated the acute exercise-induced response of telomeric genes and miRNAs in twenty-two healthy males (mean age = 24.1±1.55 years). Participants undertook 30 minutes of treadmill running at 80% of peak oxygen uptake. Blood samples were taken before exercise, immediately post-exercise and 60 minutes post-exercise. Total RNA from white blood cells was submitted to miRNA arrays and telomere extension mRNA array. Results were individually validated in white blood cells and sorted T cell lymphocyte subsets using quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR). Telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) mRNA (P = 0.001) and sirtuin-6 (SIRT6) (P<0.05) mRNA expression were upregulated in white blood cells after exercise. Fifty-six miRNAs were also differentially regulated post-exercise (FDR <0.05). In silico analysis identified four miRNAs (miR-186, miR-181, miR-15a and miR-96) that potentially targeted telomeric gene mRNA. The four miRNAs exhibited significant upregulation 60 minutes post-exercise (P<0.001). Telomeric repeat binding factor 2, interacting protein (TERF2IP) was identified as a potential binding target for miR-186 and miR-96 and demonstrated concomitant downregulation (P<0.01) at the corresponding time point. Intense cardiorespiratory exercise was sufficient to differentially regulate key telomeric genes and miRNAs in white blood cells. These results may provide a mechanistic insight into telomere homeostasis and improved immune function and physical health. Funding NHMRC
- Authors: Chilton, Warrick , Marques, Francine , West, Jenny , Kannourakis, George , Berzins, Stuart , O'Brien, Brendan , Charchar, Fadi
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: PloS One Vol. 9, no. 4 (2014), p. e92088
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Telomeres are specialized nucleoprotein structures that protect chromosomal ends from degradation. These structures progressively shorten during cellular division and can signal replicative senescence below a critical length. Telomere length is predominantly maintained by the enzyme telomerase. Significant decreases in telomere length and telomerase activity are associated with a host of chronic diseases; conversely their maintenance underpins the optimal function of the adaptive immune system. Habitual physical activity is associated with longer leukocyte telomere length; however, the precise mechanisms are unclear. Potential hypotheses include regulation of telomeric gene transcription and/or microRNAs (miRNAs). We investigated the acute exercise-induced response of telomeric genes and miRNAs in twenty-two healthy males (mean age = 24.1±1.55 years). Participants undertook 30 minutes of treadmill running at 80% of peak oxygen uptake. Blood samples were taken before exercise, immediately post-exercise and 60 minutes post-exercise. Total RNA from white blood cells was submitted to miRNA arrays and telomere extension mRNA array. Results were individually validated in white blood cells and sorted T cell lymphocyte subsets using quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR). Telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) mRNA (P = 0.001) and sirtuin-6 (SIRT6) (P<0.05) mRNA expression were upregulated in white blood cells after exercise. Fifty-six miRNAs were also differentially regulated post-exercise (FDR <0.05). In silico analysis identified four miRNAs (miR-186, miR-181, miR-15a and miR-96) that potentially targeted telomeric gene mRNA. The four miRNAs exhibited significant upregulation 60 minutes post-exercise (P<0.001). Telomeric repeat binding factor 2, interacting protein (TERF2IP) was identified as a potential binding target for miR-186 and miR-96 and demonstrated concomitant downregulation (P<0.01) at the corresponding time point. Intense cardiorespiratory exercise was sufficient to differentially regulate key telomeric genes and miRNAs in white blood cells. These results may provide a mechanistic insight into telomere homeostasis and improved immune function and physical health. Funding NHMRC
Aerodynamic drag measurements of FIFA-approved footballs
- Alam, Firoz, Chowdhury, Harun, George, Steven, Mustary, Israt, Zimmer, Gary
- Authors: Alam, Firoz , Chowdhury, Harun , George, Steven , Mustary, Israt , Zimmer, Gary
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Conference paper
- Relation: 2014 Conference of the International Sports Engineering Association p. 703-708
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Increasing technological advancements and demand for performance compel the ball manufacturers to introduce new designs. Construction of spherical footballs has been significantly changed over the years since 1970 from 32-panel leather stitched ball to 8-panel synthetic thermally bonded modern football. Despite being most popular game in the world, no data is available on aerodynamic properties of recently FIFA approved balls such as Adidas Cafusa (thermally bonded 32-panel), Nike Maxim (32- panel stitched), Umbro Neo (14-panel stitched, and Mitre Ultimax (26-panel stitched) footballs. Hence, the primary objective of this study was to determine aerodynamic drag of these balls and compare the findings with other balls introduced in late 2000. The aerodynamic forces were measured experimentally for a range of wind speeds in wind tunnel environment and their nondimensional coefficients were determined and compared. Additionally, a field test was also carried out to understand the perception of professional footballers.
- Authors: Alam, Firoz , Chowdhury, Harun , George, Steven , Mustary, Israt , Zimmer, Gary
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Conference paper
- Relation: 2014 Conference of the International Sports Engineering Association p. 703-708
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Increasing technological advancements and demand for performance compel the ball manufacturers to introduce new designs. Construction of spherical footballs has been significantly changed over the years since 1970 from 32-panel leather stitched ball to 8-panel synthetic thermally bonded modern football. Despite being most popular game in the world, no data is available on aerodynamic properties of recently FIFA approved balls such as Adidas Cafusa (thermally bonded 32-panel), Nike Maxim (32- panel stitched), Umbro Neo (14-panel stitched, and Mitre Ultimax (26-panel stitched) footballs. Hence, the primary objective of this study was to determine aerodynamic drag of these balls and compare the findings with other balls introduced in late 2000. The aerodynamic forces were measured experimentally for a range of wind speeds in wind tunnel environment and their nondimensional coefficients were determined and compared. Additionally, a field test was also carried out to understand the perception of professional footballers.
Ambulatory blood pressure may be designed as the primary efficacy outcome in clinical trials on renal denervation
- Authors: Wang, Yutang
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Letter , Journal article
- Relation: International Journal of Cardiology Vol. 176, no. 3 (2014), p. 1262-1263
- Relation: http://purl.org/au-research/grants/nhmrc/1062671
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Authors: Wang, Yutang
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Letter , Journal article
- Relation: International Journal of Cardiology Vol. 176, no. 3 (2014), p. 1262-1263
- Relation: http://purl.org/au-research/grants/nhmrc/1062671
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
An adaptive approach to opportunistic data forwarding in underwater acoustic sensor networks
- Nowsheen, Nusrat, Karmakar, Gour, Kamruzzaman, Joarder
- Authors: Nowsheen, Nusrat , Karmakar, Gour , Kamruzzaman, Joarder
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Conference proceedings
- Full Text:
- Description: Reliable data transfer for underwater acoustic sensor networks (UASNs) is a major research challenge in applications such as pollution monitoring, oceanic data collection, and surveillance due to the long propagation delay and high error rate of the acoustic channel. To address this issue, an opportunistic data forwarding protocol was proposed which achieves high packet delivery success ratio with less routing overhead and energy consumption by selecting the next hop forwarder among a set of candidates based on its link reliability and data transfer reach ability. However, the protocol relies on fixed data hold time approach, i.e., Each node holds data packets for a fixed amount of time before a forwarder discovery process is initiated. Depending on the value of the fixed hold time and deployment contextual scenario, this may incur large end-to-end delay. Moreover, lack of consideration of network condition in hold time limits its performance. In this paper, we propose an adaptive technique to improve its performance. The adaptive approach calculates data hold time at each node dynamically considering a number of 'node and network' metrics including current buffer occupancy, delay experienced by stored data packets, arrival and service rate, neighbors' data transmissions and reach ability. Simulation results show that compared with fixed hold time approach, our adaptive technique reduces end-to-end delay significantly, achieves considerably higher data delivery and less energy consumption per successful packet delivery.
- Authors: Nowsheen, Nusrat , Karmakar, Gour , Kamruzzaman, Joarder
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Conference proceedings
- Full Text:
- Description: Reliable data transfer for underwater acoustic sensor networks (UASNs) is a major research challenge in applications such as pollution monitoring, oceanic data collection, and surveillance due to the long propagation delay and high error rate of the acoustic channel. To address this issue, an opportunistic data forwarding protocol was proposed which achieves high packet delivery success ratio with less routing overhead and energy consumption by selecting the next hop forwarder among a set of candidates based on its link reliability and data transfer reach ability. However, the protocol relies on fixed data hold time approach, i.e., Each node holds data packets for a fixed amount of time before a forwarder discovery process is initiated. Depending on the value of the fixed hold time and deployment contextual scenario, this may incur large end-to-end delay. Moreover, lack of consideration of network condition in hold time limits its performance. In this paper, we propose an adaptive technique to improve its performance. The adaptive approach calculates data hold time at each node dynamically considering a number of 'node and network' metrics including current buffer occupancy, delay experienced by stored data packets, arrival and service rate, neighbors' data transmissions and reach ability. Simulation results show that compared with fixed hold time approach, our adaptive technique reduces end-to-end delay significantly, achieves considerably higher data delivery and less energy consumption per successful packet delivery.
An e-health intervention designed to increase workday energy expenditure by reducing prolonged occupational sitting habits
- Pedersen, Scott, Cooley, Dean, Mainsbridge, Casey
- Authors: Pedersen, Scott , Cooley, Dean , Mainsbridge, Casey
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Work Vol. 49, no. 2 (2014), p. 289-295
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Methods: Over a 13-week period participants (n=17) in the intervention group were regularly exposed to a passive prompt delivered through their desktop computer that required them to stand up and engage in a short-burst of physical activity, while the control group (n=17) was not exposed to this intervention. Instead, the control group continued with their normal work routine. All participants completed a pre- and post- intervention survey to estimate workplace daily energy expenditure (calories). Background: Desk-based employees face multiple workplace health hazards such as insufficient physical activity and prolonged sitting. Objective: The objective of this study was to increase workday energy expenditure by interrupting prolonged occupational sitting time and introducing short-bursts of physical activity to employees' daily work habits. Results: There was a significant 2 (Group) × 2 (Test) interaction, F (1, 32)=9.26, p < 0.05. The intervention group increased the calories expended during the workday from pre-test (M=866.29 ± 151.40) to post-test (M=1054.10 ± 393.24), whereas the control group decreased calories expended during the workday from pre-test (M=982.55 ± 315.66) to post-test (M=892.21 ± 255.36). Conclusions: An e-health intervention using a passive prompt was an effective mechanism for increasing employee work-related energy expenditure. Engaging employees in regular short-bursts of physical activity during the workday resulted in reduced sitting time, which may have long-term effects on the improvement of employee health.
- Authors: Pedersen, Scott , Cooley, Dean , Mainsbridge, Casey
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Work Vol. 49, no. 2 (2014), p. 289-295
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Methods: Over a 13-week period participants (n=17) in the intervention group were regularly exposed to a passive prompt delivered through their desktop computer that required them to stand up and engage in a short-burst of physical activity, while the control group (n=17) was not exposed to this intervention. Instead, the control group continued with their normal work routine. All participants completed a pre- and post- intervention survey to estimate workplace daily energy expenditure (calories). Background: Desk-based employees face multiple workplace health hazards such as insufficient physical activity and prolonged sitting. Objective: The objective of this study was to increase workday energy expenditure by interrupting prolonged occupational sitting time and introducing short-bursts of physical activity to employees' daily work habits. Results: There was a significant 2 (Group) × 2 (Test) interaction, F (1, 32)=9.26, p < 0.05. The intervention group increased the calories expended during the workday from pre-test (M=866.29 ± 151.40) to post-test (M=1054.10 ± 393.24), whereas the control group decreased calories expended during the workday from pre-test (M=982.55 ± 315.66) to post-test (M=892.21 ± 255.36). Conclusions: An e-health intervention using a passive prompt was an effective mechanism for increasing employee work-related energy expenditure. Engaging employees in regular short-bursts of physical activity during the workday resulted in reduced sitting time, which may have long-term effects on the improvement of employee health.
An efficient video coding technique using a novel non-parametric background model
- Chakraborty, Subrata, Paul, Manoranjan, Murshed, Manzur, Ali, Mortuza
- Authors: Chakraborty, Subrata , Paul, Manoranjan , Murshed, Manzur , Ali, Mortuza
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Conference proceedings
- Relation: 2014 IEEE International Conference on Multimedia and Expo Workshops, ICMEW 2014; Chengdu; China; 14th-18th July 2014 p. 1-6
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- Reviewed:
- Description: Video coding technique with a background frame, extracted from mixture of Gaussian (MoG) based background modeling, provides better rate distortion performance by exploiting coding efficiency in uncovered background areas compared to the latest video coding standard. However, it suffers from high computation time, low coding efficiency for dynamic videos, and prior knowledge requirement of video content. In this paper, we present a novel adaptive weighted non-parametric (WNP) background modeling technique and successfully embed it into HEVC video coding standard. Being non-parametric (NP), the proposed technique naturally exhibits superior performance in dynamic background scenarios compared to MoG-based technique without a priori knowledge of video data distribution. In addition, the WNP technique significantly reduces noise-related drawbacks of existing NP techniques to provide better quality video coding with much lower computation time as demonstrated through extensive comparative studies against NP, MoG and HEVC techniques.
- Authors: Chakraborty, Subrata , Paul, Manoranjan , Murshed, Manzur , Ali, Mortuza
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Conference proceedings
- Relation: 2014 IEEE International Conference on Multimedia and Expo Workshops, ICMEW 2014; Chengdu; China; 14th-18th July 2014 p. 1-6
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Video coding technique with a background frame, extracted from mixture of Gaussian (MoG) based background modeling, provides better rate distortion performance by exploiting coding efficiency in uncovered background areas compared to the latest video coding standard. However, it suffers from high computation time, low coding efficiency for dynamic videos, and prior knowledge requirement of video content. In this paper, we present a novel adaptive weighted non-parametric (WNP) background modeling technique and successfully embed it into HEVC video coding standard. Being non-parametric (NP), the proposed technique naturally exhibits superior performance in dynamic background scenarios compared to MoG-based technique without a priori knowledge of video data distribution. In addition, the WNP technique significantly reduces noise-related drawbacks of existing NP techniques to provide better quality video coding with much lower computation time as demonstrated through extensive comparative studies against NP, MoG and HEVC techniques.
An empirical evaluation of the potential of public e-procurement to reduce corruption
- Neupane, Arjun, Soar, Jeffrey, Vaidya, Kishor
- Authors: Neupane, Arjun , Soar, Jeffrey , Vaidya, Kishor
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Australasian Journal of Information Systems Vol. 18, no. 2 (2014), p. 21-44
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: One of the significant potential benefits of e-procurement technology is reducing opportunities for corruption in public procurement processes. The authors identified anticorruption capabilities of e-procurement through an extensive literature review and a theoretical model representing the impact of three latent variables: monopoly of power, information asymmetry, and transparency and accountability upon the dependent variable, the intent-to-adopt e-procurement. This research was guided by the Principal- Agent theory and collected the perceptions of 46 government officers of the potential of public e-procurement to reduce corruption in public procurement processes. Results were analysed using the Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) approach. The findings suggest that the intent-to-adopt e-procurement has a positive and significant relationship with the independent variables that might inform developing countries in strategies to combat corruption in public procurement.
- Authors: Neupane, Arjun , Soar, Jeffrey , Vaidya, Kishor
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Australasian Journal of Information Systems Vol. 18, no. 2 (2014), p. 21-44
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: One of the significant potential benefits of e-procurement technology is reducing opportunities for corruption in public procurement processes. The authors identified anticorruption capabilities of e-procurement through an extensive literature review and a theoretical model representing the impact of three latent variables: monopoly of power, information asymmetry, and transparency and accountability upon the dependent variable, the intent-to-adopt e-procurement. This research was guided by the Principal- Agent theory and collected the perceptions of 46 government officers of the potential of public e-procurement to reduce corruption in public procurement processes. Results were analysed using the Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) approach. The findings suggest that the intent-to-adopt e-procurement has a positive and significant relationship with the independent variables that might inform developing countries in strategies to combat corruption in public procurement.
An evaluation of emergency plans and procedures in fitness facilities in Australia: Implications for policy and practice
- Sekendiz, Betul, Norton, Kevin, Keyzer, Patrick, Dietrich, Joachim, Coyle, Ian, Jones, Veronica, Finch, Caroline
- Authors: Sekendiz, Betul , Norton, Kevin , Keyzer, Patrick , Dietrich, Joachim , Coyle, Ian , Jones, Veronica , Finch, Caroline
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Conference proceedings
- Full Text:
- Description: In 2007-08, fitness facilities contributed $872.9 million to the Australian economy and provided savings in direct health care costs estimated up to $107.9 million through their positive impact on physical inactivity and associated diseases (1). In 2011-12, more than 4.3 million Australians participated in sport and physical recreation at indoor sports or fitness facilities (2). However, research across Queensland (3) and in Victoria (4) showed low compliance with emergency plans and safety practices in fitness facilities. The aim of this study was to analyse emergency plans and procedures in fitness facilities in Australia. A nationwide online risk management survey of fitness professionals (n=1178, mean age=39.9), and observational audits at randomly selected regional and metropolitan fitness facilities (n=11) in New South Wales, South Australia, Victoria and Queensland were conducted. The findings indicated that most of the fitness professionals (68.1%) rated the emergency evacuation plans and other emergency procedures in their facilities as extremely/very good (n=640). Yet, more than one fourth (27.4%) of fitness professionals were somewhat aware (n=152), or very unaware/not at all aware (n=49) of the emergency evacuation plans and other emergency procedures in their facilities. The observational audits showed that most of the fitness facilities did not clearly display their emergency response plans (73%, n=8), emergency evacuation procedures (55%, n=6) or emergency telephone numbers (91%, n=10). Many fitness facilities (36.4%, n=4) did not have an appropriate first aid kit accessible by all staff. Our study shows a lack of emergency preparedness in many fitness facilities in Australia. Emergency response capability is crucial for fitness facility managers to satisfy their duty of care to manage risks of medical emergencies and disasters such as fire, explosion, and floods. Our study has implications for policy development and education of fitness facility managers to improve emergency plans and procedures in fitness facilities in Australia.
- Authors: Sekendiz, Betul , Norton, Kevin , Keyzer, Patrick , Dietrich, Joachim , Coyle, Ian , Jones, Veronica , Finch, Caroline
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Conference proceedings
- Full Text:
- Description: In 2007-08, fitness facilities contributed $872.9 million to the Australian economy and provided savings in direct health care costs estimated up to $107.9 million through their positive impact on physical inactivity and associated diseases (1). In 2011-12, more than 4.3 million Australians participated in sport and physical recreation at indoor sports or fitness facilities (2). However, research across Queensland (3) and in Victoria (4) showed low compliance with emergency plans and safety practices in fitness facilities. The aim of this study was to analyse emergency plans and procedures in fitness facilities in Australia. A nationwide online risk management survey of fitness professionals (n=1178, mean age=39.9), and observational audits at randomly selected regional and metropolitan fitness facilities (n=11) in New South Wales, South Australia, Victoria and Queensland were conducted. The findings indicated that most of the fitness professionals (68.1%) rated the emergency evacuation plans and other emergency procedures in their facilities as extremely/very good (n=640). Yet, more than one fourth (27.4%) of fitness professionals were somewhat aware (n=152), or very unaware/not at all aware (n=49) of the emergency evacuation plans and other emergency procedures in their facilities. The observational audits showed that most of the fitness facilities did not clearly display their emergency response plans (73%, n=8), emergency evacuation procedures (55%, n=6) or emergency telephone numbers (91%, n=10). Many fitness facilities (36.4%, n=4) did not have an appropriate first aid kit accessible by all staff. Our study shows a lack of emergency preparedness in many fitness facilities in Australia. Emergency response capability is crucial for fitness facility managers to satisfy their duty of care to manage risks of medical emergencies and disasters such as fire, explosion, and floods. Our study has implications for policy development and education of fitness facility managers to improve emergency plans and procedures in fitness facilities in Australia.
An examination of writing pauses in the handwriting of children with developmental coordination disorder
- Prunty, Mellissa, Barnett, Anna, Wilmut, Kate, Plumb, Mandy
- Authors: Prunty, Mellissa , Barnett, Anna , Wilmut, Kate , Plumb, Mandy
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Research in Developmental Disabilities Vol. 35, no. 11 (2014), p. 2894-2905
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Difficulties with handwriting are reported as one of the main reasons for the referral of children with Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) to healthcare professionals. In a recent study we found that children with DCD produced less text than their typically developing (TD) peers and paused for 60% of a free-writing task. However, little is known about the nature of the pausing; whether they are long pauses possibly due to higher level processes of text generation or fatigue, or shorter pauses related to the movements between letters. This gap in the knowledge-base creates barriers to understanding the handwriting difficulties in children with DCD. The aim of this study was to characterise the pauses observed in the handwriting of English children with and without DCD. Twenty-eight 8-14 year-old children with a diagnosis of DCD participated in the study, with 28 TD age and gender matched controls. Participants completed the 10 min free-writing task from the Detailed Assessment of Speed of Handwriting (DASH) on a digitising writing tablet. The total overall percentage of pausing during the task was categorised into four pause time-frames, each derived from the literature on writing (250 ms to 2 s; 2-4 s; 4-10 s and >10 s). In addition, the location of the pauses was coded (within word/between word) to examine where the breakdown in the writing process occurred. The results indicated that the main group difference was driven by more pauses above 10 s in the DCD group. In addition, the DCD group paused more within words compared to TD peers, indicating a lack of automaticity in their handwriting. These findings may support the provision of additional time for children with DCD in written examinations. More importantly, they emphasise the need for intervention in children with DCD to promote the acquisition of efficient handwriting skill.
- Authors: Prunty, Mellissa , Barnett, Anna , Wilmut, Kate , Plumb, Mandy
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Research in Developmental Disabilities Vol. 35, no. 11 (2014), p. 2894-2905
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Difficulties with handwriting are reported as one of the main reasons for the referral of children with Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) to healthcare professionals. In a recent study we found that children with DCD produced less text than their typically developing (TD) peers and paused for 60% of a free-writing task. However, little is known about the nature of the pausing; whether they are long pauses possibly due to higher level processes of text generation or fatigue, or shorter pauses related to the movements between letters. This gap in the knowledge-base creates barriers to understanding the handwriting difficulties in children with DCD. The aim of this study was to characterise the pauses observed in the handwriting of English children with and without DCD. Twenty-eight 8-14 year-old children with a diagnosis of DCD participated in the study, with 28 TD age and gender matched controls. Participants completed the 10 min free-writing task from the Detailed Assessment of Speed of Handwriting (DASH) on a digitising writing tablet. The total overall percentage of pausing during the task was categorised into four pause time-frames, each derived from the literature on writing (250 ms to 2 s; 2-4 s; 4-10 s and >10 s). In addition, the location of the pauses was coded (within word/between word) to examine where the breakdown in the writing process occurred. The results indicated that the main group difference was driven by more pauses above 10 s in the DCD group. In addition, the DCD group paused more within words compared to TD peers, indicating a lack of automaticity in their handwriting. These findings may support the provision of additional time for children with DCD in written examinations. More importantly, they emphasise the need for intervention in children with DCD to promote the acquisition of efficient handwriting skill.
An exploration of the Maternal and Child Health changes in Australia
- Breach, Rayleen, Jones, Linda
- Authors: Breach, Rayleen , Jones, Linda
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: International Journal of Business, Humanities and Technology Vol. 4, no. 3 (2014), p. 95-105
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Background: The Victorian Maternal and Child Health (MCH) profession is in the process of undergoing a number of changes as a result of initiatives at national level. Aim: The aim of the research was to explore and describe the knowledge, attitudes and beliefs of Victorian Key stakeholders (KSH) and MCH nurse’s regarding these changes. Method: A qualitative, semi structured interview method was employed for this study with 48 participants. Results: The results indicated that participants strongly believed that change was imposed on them without a great deal of communication and consultation with them. Discussion: Kotter’s framework was used to highlight what process was lacking and what could have been undertaken to assist achieving this change. A change of such a magnitude as the national registration and development of a national framework had never been undertaken previously. This framework explained why participants in the study were feeling so disenfranchised with these changes.
- Authors: Breach, Rayleen , Jones, Linda
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: International Journal of Business, Humanities and Technology Vol. 4, no. 3 (2014), p. 95-105
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Background: The Victorian Maternal and Child Health (MCH) profession is in the process of undergoing a number of changes as a result of initiatives at national level. Aim: The aim of the research was to explore and describe the knowledge, attitudes and beliefs of Victorian Key stakeholders (KSH) and MCH nurse’s regarding these changes. Method: A qualitative, semi structured interview method was employed for this study with 48 participants. Results: The results indicated that participants strongly believed that change was imposed on them without a great deal of communication and consultation with them. Discussion: Kotter’s framework was used to highlight what process was lacking and what could have been undertaken to assist achieving this change. A change of such a magnitude as the national registration and development of a national framework had never been undertaken previously. This framework explained why participants in the study were feeling so disenfranchised with these changes.