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Home Care Needs of Older People: Western Bay of Plenty
No full textThis qualitative community-led research focused on the formal and informal care needs of older people living in the Western Bay of Plenty, Aotearoa New Zealand. Community groups were concerned about the future health, care, and welfare needs of people aged 65 years and over in this region. The research involves two distinct phases. The first phase involves semi-structured, face-to-face interviews with 26 people aged 65+ years who hope to be able to age at home (owned or rented) and avoid residential or hospital level care as they age. The second research phase involves 13 Needs Assessors and Care Professionals completing an online survey about the needs of older adults living in the community in the Western Bay of Plenty
Human activities shape global patterns of decomposition rates in rivers
No full textRivers and streams contribute to global carbon cycling by decomposing immense quantities of terrestrial plant matter. However, decomposition rates are highly variable and large-scale patterns and drivers of this process remain poorly understood. Using a cellulose-based assay to reflect the primary constituent of plant detritus, we generated a predictive model (81% variance explained) for cellulose decomposition rates across 514 globally distributed streams. A large number of variables were important for predicting decomposition, highlighting the complexity of this process at the global scale. Predicted cellulose decomposition rates, when combined with genus-level litter quality attributes, explain published leaf litter decomposition rates with high accuracy (70% variance explained). Our global map provides estimates of rates across vast understudied areas of Earth and reveals rapid decomposition across continental-scale areas dominated by human activities
Structural behaviour of cold-formed stainless steel channel lipped sections with edge-stiffened holes, un-stiffened holes, and plain webs subjected to axial compression
No full textIn recent years, stainless steel has seen increased use in construction due to its exceptional corrosion resistance and mechanical strength, especially in structural elements like channel sections, hollow pipes, and angles. Cold-formed stainless steel (CFSS) channel sections with edge-stiffened web holes have emerged as a significant development in the construction industry, with a focus on streamlining the installation of plumbing and electrical services. Previous research indicated that these edge stiffened web holes offer comparable axial capacity to plain webs in cold-formed steel (CFS) channel columns. In building industry, stiffening of the web hole is very common, which results in increase of the load carrying capacity of the stainless-steel column. However, no comprehensive study has been reported in the literature for such stainless-steel column subjected to compression. This paper investigates the axial capacity of the stainless-steel column with unstiffened and edge-stiffened web holes.
A non-linear finite element (FE) model is developed and validated against the experimental results available in the literature. An extensive parametric study is conducted based on 2016 validated FE models. EN 1.4509 (Ferritic), EN 1.4462 (Duplex) and EN 1.4301 (Austenitic) grades of stainless steel are considered for the current study. Subsequently, parametric study results are compared with guidelines available for stainless steel in the standards, namely AS/NZS 4600: 2018, ASCE: 08, AISI. Finally, a modified EWM and DSM equations are proposed for the CFSS section with edge-stiffened web holes. Finally, a reliability analysis was conducted to ensure that the proposed equation could be reliable
Investigation into strain propagation to determine preserve regions for compliant mechanisms
No full textThis thesis aims to improve the theoretical modelling of compliant mechanisms. The
conclusions drawn from this work will help designers understand sources of error associated
with strain propagation when designing with lumped compliance. Compliant mechanisms
have increased in popularity as they allow for designs that feature lower part counts,
increased precision and reduced manufacturing costs. Although using theoretical models
to design compliant mechanisms is a useful tool, there is an assumption that only the
nodes in a compliant mechanism undergo strain. This is not the case. There is strain
occurring outside of the node in a region called the preserve region. The preserve region’s
impact on the theory is greatly under-explored in the literature.
The preserve region’s size, shape, and impact were found and quantified for a range
of critical node types. This was done through the use of FEA software by altering the
model of a simple, compliant mechanism. The size of the preserve region changed based
on the thickness and the fillet used, with an increase of thickness from 4mm to 8mm,
causing the radius of the arc that encompasses the preserve region to grow from 8.5mm to
13mm. The shape was also found to be an ellipse, irrespective of the node’s geometry. The
preserve region’s impact on the theoretical models was also quantified. It was found that
the thickness has the most drastic effect on the compliance values of the node, increasing
the error from 20.53% to 102.18% when the thickness was increased from 4mm to 8mm.
This work shows the importance of considering the preserve region when creating
theoretical models of compliant mechanisms. When properly considered, this research
shows that the error between the theoretical and the FEA values can be greatly reduced
Network of mindfulness and difficulties in regulating emotions in firefighters
No full textGrowing evidence supports the role of mindfulness in regulating emotions in the general population. However, the interactive network of mindfulness facets and difficulties in regulating emotions is not well understood, which is specifically important for individuals involved in high-risk professions, such as first responders. The aim of this study was to investigate the interactive relations between mindfulness facets, acting with awareness, non-judging, describing, observing, and non-reacting, ability to regulate emotions and alcohol use in a sample of firefighters, including military veterans. A sample of 685 career firefighters, including 154 (22.5%) military veterans, who completed measures of mindfulness and difficulties in regulating emotions, was subjected to network analysis. Through network analysis, it was found that the mindfulness facet non-judging was negatively related to emotion regulation challenges, such as nonaccepting attitudes and lack of clarity, and positively related to deficits in goal-directed behavior. Acting with awareness was negatively related to goal-directed behavior deficits and impulsivity. Alcohol use was positively linked to impulsivity and negatively linked to the describing facet of mindfulness. Overall, emotion regulation difficulties were positively linked together, and positive links were found between most mindfulness facets. Directed network analysis identified non-judging and emotion regulation strategy as parental predictors. Non-judging appeared as a protective factor, supporting other mindfulness facets, while lack of emotion regulation strategies exacerbated emotion regulation challenges as a risk factor. This network analysis demonstrated the significance of acting with awareness and a non-judgmental attitude facet of mindfulness in fostering better emotion regulation and potentially playing a protective role against impulsivity and alcohol use in firefighters
Gelatin and collagen from sheepskin
No full textAbattoirs dispose of sheepskins as solid waste due to low price and poor demand for sheepskin leather. In principle, as an alternative to being disposed of in landfill, sheepskins can serve as a source of the protein collagen or the hydrolysis product, gelatin. In this research, sheepskins collected from abattoirs were used as a source of collagen. Three extraction methods were compared: acid extraction, acid with enzymes, and alkali extraction. The extracted material was characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), and sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). The collagen and gelatin extraction yield ranged from 3.1% to 4.8% with the product purity determined by hydroxyproline, ranging from 7.8% for the alkali process to 59% and 68% for the acid and acid-enzyme processes. SDS PAGE showed that the acid process produced fragments with molecular weights in the range 100 to >250 kDa, while acid–enzyme resulted in smaller fragments, below 30 kDa. The FTIR region of the amide I band at 1800–1550 cm−1, which was used as an indicator of the collagen and gelatin content, showed that the gelatin dominated in the acid extracts, and the alkaline extract contained a large portion of keratin. SAXS was found to be a sensitive method for showing the presence of intact collagen fibrils in materials from all of the extraction methods, albeit at low concentrations. Herein, sheepskin is shown to be a useful source for collagen–gelatin material of varying molecular weights
Digital competencies of high school mathematics teachers in Pakistan
No full textThe dynamic demands of the contemporary educational landscape, which includes a variety of digital tools and resources, require teachers to develop digital competencies. This need is particularly pertinent for mathematics teachers in developing countries like Pakistan, where there is a requirement to bridge the digital divide and equip teachers with the knowledge and skills to integrate digital resources into their teaching practices. Prior research has acknowledged the importance of integrating digital resources in education; however, there is limited research on the challenges and opportunities that high school mathematics teachers encounter when using digital resources in resource-constrained environments like Pakistan.
This study aimed to investigate the digital competencies of high school mathematics teachers in Pakistan, focusing on their knowledge, beliefs, practices, and experiences in integrating digital resources into mathematics teaching and learning. To achieve this aim, the study adapted the “Digital Competencies for Teaching Mathematics with Technology” (DCTMT) framework. Employing a mixed-methods explanatory sequential design, the study was divided into two phases for data collection. In Phase 1, quantitative data were collected through an online survey, which received a total of 306 responses. I analysed the survey data using descriptive (Mean, Mode, Median, and Standard Deviation) and inferential (intra- and inter-construct Spearman’s rho (⍴) correlation tests) statistics. To further understand and explain important quantitative results, semi-structured interviews were conducted in Phase 2 with six (Phase 1) teachers. I analysed the qualitative data using pre-identified themes and sub-themes based on the constructs of the DCTMT framework.
The results of both phases indicated that teachers held firm beliefs about various aspects of mathematics education. Teachers expressed strong beliefs about pedagogical practices and held positive beliefs about the importance of digital resources for teaching and learning mathematics. Correlations were observed between beliefs, teachers' reported ability to create videos, knowledge of dynamic graphing software (DGS) and equation editors, and participation in professional training. The findings revealed that most teachers possessed some level of digital competency. Teachers predominantly relied on videos and graphics, indicating potential bias and a gap in their professional development and training. They lacked access to (particularly at school) and possessed a weak knowledge of mathematics-specific digital resources like Dynamic Graphing Software (DGS). Other factors, such as lack of resources, inadequate formal training, and limited professional development opportunities, hindered their ability to integrate digital resources into their teaching and learning of mathematics. However, the results indicated that teachers could overcome some of these challenges through resilience and self-learning initiatives.
The study findings suggest that equipping teachers with appropriate resources and targeted professional development could enhance their digital competencies. This would consequently promote equitable and diverse use of digital resources in mathematics education. Within the confines of resource-constrained environments, these findings support for nurturing teachers' resilience and cultivating a self-learning attitude among them. Teachers who equip themselves with digital skills receive training and have the confidence to integrate digital resources to develop digital competencies, irrespective of resource constraints.
This thesis contributes to the understanding of high school mathematics teachers' digital competencies in Pakistan and indicates the opportunities and obstacles they encounter while using digital resources. This research inquiry provides empirical evidence for the modified DCTMT framework and reveals significant interconnections between the five constructs of the framework. The study reveals critical insights into the intricate relationship between beliefs, access to resources, and competencies in utilizing digital tools for mathematics education. This thesis establishes a compelling link between training, self-learning, teachers' resilience, and their digital competencies, highlighting the dynamic interplay that shapes mathematics teachers' digital competencies. This thesis offers implications for teachers’ professional development, curriculum design, and policy formulation. It emphasizes the importance of supporting teachers with the resources and knowledge to integrate digital resources and enhance mathematics education in resource-constrained contexts
Tīaho mai
No full textWaiata ā Ringa (action song). Lyrics composed by Te Kahautu Maxwell. Performed by Ōpōtiki Mai Tawhiti (Kapa Haka group
Pilot study investigating pathway for practitioner engagement with whānau during a self-control activity: Implications for uptake in the home and for empowered engagement.
No full textThere is a gap in youth mentoring services using the home environment of at-risk youth to encourage development of the skills worked on within mentoring. This thesis explores whether a game-based intervention situated in the home environment of youth may initiate changes in behaviour that coincide with their learning during mentoring. Participants were recruited through a private youth mentoring service within Whāngarei. Participants included whānau of youth who are enrolled in the Awhi Ako youth mentoring service and their respective mentors. The Awhi Ako mentoring service aims to support youth through their selected needs by a wider wraparound service.
A game was picked to introduce to whānau to play together at home. This game contained a mechanism that may reward self-control behaviours. Whānau were interviewed and asked to discuss their child’s self-control behaviours before the introduction of the game and any changes after playing the game.
A principal focus of this thesis is on practitioner engagement with the whānau of mentored youth. Practitioner engagement with communities and people is an integral value underpinning Community psychology. Whānau within the youth mentoring service include Māori, Pasifika, Pākehā and mixed ethnic backgrounds. A core focus of this thesis is understanding the relationship between practitioner and participants and how this impacts upon uptake of the introduction of the activity. In accordance with community psychology underpinnings and values of cultural awareness, cultural respect and understanding this thesis aspires to provide evidence towards the importance of this relationship. Another key focus of this thesis is comprehending the multifaceted effects of an intervention within the home environment and how this impacts mentors, the home environment and the development of youth. Emphasizing a fundamental principle of community psychology of interconnectedness between all facets of a persons life.
The conclusions drawn from this thesis illustrate the importance of developing a relationship with whānau a key focus to their willingness to participate and actively engage in this pilot study. The findings from this pilot study indicate that whānau experienced hardship and that whānau within at-risk environments had competing priorities that impeded the introduction of home-based activities
Developing an eDNA approach for wetland biomonitoring: Insights on technical and conventional approaches
No full textWetlands are ecologically and culturally significant ecosystems that are experiencing biodiversity declines globally. Biomonitoring techniques that use environmental DNA (eDNA) to detect and monitor biodiversity are well established in lake, riverine, and marine ecosystems. However, their use in wetlands requires further development due to the presence of sediments that block eDNA filters to limit water filtration, alongside a lack of standardized methodology. In this study, we examined eDNA dynamics to understand spatiotemporal biodiversity patterns in an Aotearoa New Zealand wetland and to optimize their application to wetland-specific challenges. We sampled four sites across Opuatia Wetland at three time points during an austral spring. We conducted conventional taxonomic surveys, tested three different filter sizes (1.2 μm, 5 μm, and semi-quantitative dacron filters), and assessed our ability to detect foreign DNA (from kea; Nestor notabilis) at different time points and distances post-release. We found significant differences in DNA sequence composition across time and space, and when using different sized filters. eDNA data generally complemented (versus replaced) conventional survey and identification methods, with certain species only detected by one method or the other. Taxonomic resolution of conventional sampling and identification methods often exceeded that of eDNA. Foreign DNA was detectable 10 m from its release point for up to 1 week post-release. Our results provide new considerations for future eDNA research in wetland environments, where rapid biomonitoring techniques are needed to support conservation and preservation