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Content moderator mental health, secondary trauma, and well-being: a cross-sectional study
Get PDFContent moderators (CMs) analyze and remove offensive or harmful user generated content that has been uploaded to the internet. Jobs which involve exposure to other people's suffering are associated with raised rates of secondary traumatic stress and mental health problems. However, research establishing psychological baseline symptoms in CMs is lacking. This study used an online survey to explore rates of psychological distress, secondary trauma, and well-being in a sample of CMs. Regression analysis explored how various features of the work affected mental health. There was a dose–response effect between frequency of exposure to distressing content and psychological distress and secondary trauma, but not well-being. The results suggested supportive colleagues and feedback about the importance of their role ameliorated this relationship. Implications for CM working conditions are discussed
Online application for the early detection of students at risk of failing through Artificial Intelligence
No full textA worrying trend that recently affected the university system is characterized by the students’ dropout. Universities usually link the problem with some aspects as study program, structure, and organization of the examinations, that require more involvement from students, that negatively affect their motivation. Even if universities make some improvement actions, as tutoring, to provide students the best approach for their studies aimed at promoting academic success and avoiding university drop-out, sometimes they don’t seem to achieve the results expected. It can happen that the factors which led students to drop-out cannot be related to their approach in the study but can be due to the students’ engagement and social interaction. Universities find out these factors only after students’ drop-out, checking their activities and attendance only at the end of the academic year, too late for avoiding severe consequences. This work reports a possible solution to this problem by exploiting Artificial Intelligence methods based on machine learning, firstly applying clustering to group students according to their behavior and then implementing a classification model to predict students at risk. Once checked the accuracy of the machine learning models, the application designed and realized in this work has been plugged in an online platform to allow the universities’ staff to easily execute the software supporting the students to achieve their goals in terms of engagement and learning outcomes. This is a contribution to reduce university drop-out, with possibility to improve the proposed application by user feedbacks and large amount of data collected
Effectiveness of an individualized training based on dynamic strength index on sprinting, jumping and change of direction performance in basketball players: a randomized controlled trial
Get PDFObjectives: The dynamic strength index (DSI) is calculated as the ratio between countermovement jump (CMJ) peak force and isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP) peak force and is said to inform whether ballistic or strength training is warranted for a given athlete. This study assessed the impact of an individualized in-season resistance training program, guided by DSI on basketball players' physical performance. Methods: Forty-three elite players (19.4 ± 2.9 years; 1.97 ± 0.08 cm; 89.1 ± 9.5 kg) were divided into an intervention group (IG) (27 players) and a control group (CG) (16 players). The IG was further split based on DSI into a ballistic group (DSI ≤ 0.90, 11 players) and a strength group (DSI > 0.90, 16 players). Over five weeks, participants underwent two weekly resistance sessions, with the IG following a DSI-based program and the CG a standard program. Performance was measured pre- and post-intervention through 20-m sprints, 505 change of direction test, CMJ, and IMTP. Results: There were statistically significant improvements in the IG, notably in sprint times (η2 = 0.12-0.21, p < 0.05) and 505 test (η2 = 0.15 – 0.16, p < 0.05), predominantly in the strength group. The CG’s performance was either unchanged or declined for different variables. Conclusion: Our results suggest that DSI-guided training effectively enhances basketball players' physical performance within a competitive season
The planning, monitoring and training of elite weightlifting
Get PDFThe journey of Olympic success can be attributed to the appropriate planning and monitoring of key information which can help inform the training process. Weightlifting has been studied over multiple decades, with the most prominent research coming from the Soviet Union in the 1980’s. Since then, research on weightlifting has often been conducted within silo’s relating to technique or physical surrogates. However, no research has been conducted with an attempt to understand the weights required to achieve international success and how physical attributes can change over time in conjunction with technical ability. Therefore, the primary aims of this thesis were to (i) develop a series of models to predict key performance zones for major international events, (ii) review the literature around methods of analysing and defining technique, (iii) explore the validity and reliability of a commercially available inertial sensor for measuring barbell mechanics, (iiii) evaluate alternative kinetic surrogate measures, and (iv) describe how the aforementioned has been used longitudinally in preparation for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.
In study 1, the primary objective was to develop a set of predictive models to predict performance total (Ptot) for newly announced weight categories across five performance zones, rangin; 1st-3rd, 4-5th, 6-8th, 9-10th and 11-15th, for 3 major weightlifting competitions. On average, predicted Ptot displayed a difference from actual Ptot of 3.65±2.51% (12.46±9.16 kg), 0.78±3.29% (2.26±10.08 kg) and -1.13±3.46% (-4.32±11.10 kg) for the Olympics and World and European Championships, respectively. The results suggest that the predictive models may be a good indicator of future performances, however, the models may have greater efficacy in some weight categories and performance zones than others.
In study 2, a Scoping review was conducted using Medline, Web of Science, and PubMed in helping to identify themes in the analysis and definition of competitive weightlifting. A total of 47 articles were included for analysis. Two general themes were identified with biomechanical information being captured within competition or within laboratory environments. A large proportion of data capture utilised single or multi-camera systems utilising custom scripts of software. The most common method of phase identification used change in knee joint angle and barbell displacement, often when using multi-camera systems. The number of phases identified ranged from 2 to 6, with 5 and 6 being reported most frequently, with the difference often being the rise from the catch position. The varying methods of capture and phase identification can impact the kinetic and kinematic outputs that are often reported within the research. More research is needed to identify valid, accessible, and discreet methods of monitoring weightlifting.
Study 3 aimed to fulfil the additional research identified from the scoping review (study 2), focusing on weightlifting technique. This study assessed the validity and reliability of the Enode, a commercial Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) for measuring barbell kinematics and kinetics during the snatch. The Enode demonstrated good validity for most variables, particularly in measuring peak velocity. However, it tended to overestimate horizontal displacement, showing fixed or proportional bias. The within-session and between-session reliability of the Enode were generally good to excellent for variables such as velocity and vertical displacement. Horizontal displacement measures displayed large variability. Practical applications suggest that the Enode is a valid and reliable tool for monitoring weightlifting technique, particularly for assessing vertical velocity and vertical displacement. However, caution is advised when interpreting horizontal displacement data.
In study 4, the kinetics of the countermovement jump was assessed to identify which kinetic measures best associated with weightlifting performance. From a total of 15 metrics, 13 were deemed reliable, with propulsive impulse showing the greatest level of reliability. Correlational analysis showed strong to very strong (r = 0.676 – 0.817) relationships between all absolute measures of weightlifting performance and propulsive impulse for both women and men. This novel finding suggests that practitioners may wish to monitor propulsive impulse as it may provide more insight into changes of force capabilities following training.
Study 5 aimed to take the learnings from the previous studies and apply it to the longitudinal planning, monitoring, and training of an elite weightlifter in preparation for the Tokyo Olympic Games. The key findings showed performance increases in 2019, with concurrent improvements in force capacity and expression measured in the isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP) and countermovement jump (CMJ). The COVID-19 disruption led to decreased training intensity and varied volume application, resulting in reduced performance and consistent monitoring. Post-Covid, training intensity increased significantly, particularly during the taper in preparation for Tokyo. Positive increases in peak barbell velocity occurred during the end of the taper suggesting a potential increase in preparedness. Predicted competition performance differed by 5.89%, but the top 10 target was achieved.
Overall, the thesis integrates these studies to provide a cohesive understanding of elite weightlifting performance, offering practical insights for coaches, scientists, and practitioners in the field. It underscores the importance of considering technical, biomechanical, neuromuscular, and contextual factors in elite performance preparation and monitoring
Relationships and within-group differences in physical attributes and golf performance in elite amateur female players
Get PDFThe aim of the present study was to examine the association between a comprehensive physical testing battery and measures of golf performance in elite female amateur players. Nineteen category one (handicap ≤ 5) or better golfers (age: 16.26 ± 1.28 years, height: 166.26 ± 3.62 cm, mass: 64.04 ± 11.27 kg, wingspan: 146.53 ± 15.59 cm, handicap: +1.45 ± 0.7) volunteered to participate in this investigation. All golfers attended a single 90 min testing session where golf shot data (clubhead speed [CHS], ball speed, carry distance, and smash factor) were measured with a Trackman 4 launch monitor and a battery of physical assessments were carried out. These included anthropometric data and assessments for seated thoracic rotation, the isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP), isometric bench press, countermovement jump (CMJ), and seated medicine ball throws for distance. Pearson’s r correlations showed CHS was the golf metric that most commonly demonstrated large associations with physical testing data, most notably with force at 100 ms during the isometric bench press (r = 0.70). Median split analysis was also conducted for the IMTP (force at 200 ms), isometric bench press (force at 100 ms), and CMJ (positive impulse). The results showed that players who produced more force at 200 ms during the IMTP exhibited a greater CHS (g = 1.13), ball speed (g = 0.90), and carry distance (g = 1.01). In addition, players with a greater positive impulse during the CMJ showed a greater ball speed (g = 0.93), carry distance (g = 1.29), and smash factor (g = 1.27). Collectively, these results highlight the relevance of explosive force production capabilities in both the lower and upper body for female golfers. This information can be used by practitioners to better target key physical attributes during testing and training of female players
Chromosomal copy number and mutational status are required to authenticate ovarian cancer cell lines as appropriate cell models
Get PDFBackground
The mutational status of ovarian cancer cell line IGROV-1 is inconsistent across the literature, suggestive of multiple clonal populations of the cell line. IGROV-1 has previously been categorised as an inappropriate model for high-grade serous ovarian cancer.
Methods
IGROV-1 cells were obtained from the Netherlands Cancer Institute (IGROV-1-NKI) and the MD Anderson Cancer Centre (IGROV-1-MDA). Cell lines were STR fingerprinted and had their chromosomal copy number analysed and BRCA1/2 genes sequenced. Mutation status of ovarian cancer-related genes were extracted from the literature.
Results
The IGROV-1-NKI cell line has a tetraploid chromosomal profile. In contrast, the IGROV-1-MDA cell line has pseudo-normal chromosomes. The IGROV-1-NKI and IGROV-MDA are both STR matches (80.7% and 84.6%) to the original IGROV-1 cells isolated in 1985. However, IGROV-1-NKI and IGROV-1-MDA are not an STR match to each other (78.1%) indicating genetic drift. The BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene sequences are 100% identical between IGROV-1-MDA and IGROV-1-NKI, including a BRCA1 heterozygous deleterious mutation. The IGROV-1-MDA cells are more resistant to cisplatin and olaparib than IGROV-1-NKI. IGROV-1 has a mutational profile consistent with both Type I (PTEN, PIK3CA and ARID1A) and Type II ovarian cancer (BRCA1, TP53) and is likely to be a Type II high-grade serous carcinoma of the SET (Solid, pseudo-Endometroid and Transitional cell carcinoma-like morphology) subtype.
Conclusions
Routine testing of chromosomal copy number as well as the mutational status of ovarian cancer related genes should become the new standard alongside STR fingerprinting to ensure that ovarian cancer cell lines are appropriate models
Understanding training load in golf: a survey of swing coaches, performance practitioners and medical staff
No full textThe present study aimed to investigate the current opinions and practices of golf coaches, performance practitioners and medical staff working in golf, on the topic of monitoring training load in the sport. A cross-sectional, explorative survey was undertaken which included specific questions for each sub-group using a combination of Likert scale and ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ questions. A total of 89 practitioners completed the survey with 23 being golf coaches, 35 being performance practitioners, and 31 being medical practitioners. Results showed that virtually all technical coaches and support staff practitioners agreed on the importance of monitoring training load in golf. However, our findings identified a noticeable gap between what is current opinion and what is actually done in day-to-day practice, relating to training load monitoring in the sport. While the majority of coaches and practitioners are in agreement with the value of assessing load in golf, the number that actually monitor and collect data relating to this is substantially lower. Therefore, further consideration and research is undoubtedly required on this topic to help inform and change current practice in golf
Enthusiasm versus reality: a job analysis of Chinese sport scientists
Get PDFThe aim of this study was to survey Chinese sport scientists to develop an understanding of their demographics, job characteristics, future career intentions, and opinions. This study adapted online survey and used convenience sampling to investigate the role of sport scientists across China. Ninety-seven practitioners across 18 provinces/municipalities participated in this study. Participants were typically married (70%), male (71%), aged between 30-39 (52%), and held a master’s degree (66%). Most participants were employed full-time (90%) by sport science institutes (66%), with a wide salary range, long working hours (≈48 hr per week) and irregular working time (40%). Most participants remained at the same institute (85%) throughout their career. The most frequent reason why sport scientists remained in their current position was “job enjoyment” (4.04/5). The most frequently reported issue encountered by participants was “opinion differences with sport coaches” (21%). The ability to “gain trust” and “communication” were deemed important in the role of a sport scientist. Approximately half (44%) of the participants were satisfied with their current position and employer, while others wanted promotion (34%) or to leave their role (11%). The results revealed that (1) China’s sport scientists are engaged in their current job mainly due to their enthusiasm, (2) their jobs are stable but highly demanding and relatively low paid. Poor working conditions and low retention are evident across Chinese sport scientist roles. Governing bodies should make efforts to improve the work conditions to improve the sustainability of sport scientist roles in the Chinese sport industry
Key challenges of managing pregnancy and new parenthood for mothers and fathers who work in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the UK
No full textThe transition to parenthood is one of the most impactful
processes in working life and the single most important event
in the gendering of careers with adverse implications for gender equality. Despite considerable progress towards more
‘family-friendly’ working by large trailblazing UK companies,
evidence suggests that many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) (employing 1-249 staff) lag behind in their recognition of the challenges parents face, and the implementation and promotion of ‘family-friendly’ work options.
Understanding and addressing the challenges in managing new parenthood within an SME context is important
because SMEs account for 99.9% of the UK business population. Previous research focuses on experiences of pregnancy, parenthood, and employment in large organisations
and thus excludes the majority of workers. SMEs often do
not have a dedicated Human Resources department or formal maternity or paternity policies, which can generate inequalities for those juggling work and care. However, less
hierarchical structures may also be associated with closer,
family-like relationships that influence the level and nature
of support provided to expectant and new parents.
This paper draws on data from 40 in-depth interviews with
expectant and new mothers and fathers (which is part of a
larger, Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) funded study on the ‘Transition to Parenthood in SMEs’). We
conceptualise adaptions to new parenthood as a process
of mutual adjustment (employer and employee ad hoc bargaining) in the context of gendered organisations with the
key characteristics of SMEs (e.g., more informal staff management and resource scarcity). We find that participants
experience SME specific work-life reconciliation challenges,
but also identify good practice examples that both SMEs
and larger workplaces can learn from
Planned suicide: an interpretative phenomenological analysis of individuals’ lived experiences of planning to end their own lives
Get PDFThis research explores the lived experiences of individuals who have experiences of planning suicide. The overarching aim is to provide an in-depth understanding of their subjective perspectives to end their lives by suicide. Three key objectives guide the research: firstly, to comprehend participants' relationships with death and its influence on suicide planning; secondly, to unveil the significance of suicide planning through phenomenological analysis; and thirdly, to investigate the immediate and enduring changes brought about by this process.
The research addresses a significant gap in existing literature by adopting an interpretive phenomenological approach. Six adult participants shared their experiences in semi-structured, in-person interviews, and the subsequent analysis identified seven group experiential themes. These themes encompassed issues such as societal power, perspectives on mortality, the unravelling of mental decline, the intrinsic value of life, the intricate planning process, and the journey from helplessness to hope.
The findings highlight the relational aspect of suicide, revealing participants' confrontation with mortality and the profound nature of the phenomenon. Recommendations based on these insights advocate for the integration of relational psychotherapy, an existential-phenomenological approach in clinical practice and collaborative efforts in assessments, training and community engagement.
This research not only amplifies the voices of participants often overlooked in literature and society but also serves as a platform for further research in this crucial area. The research aims to provoke curiosity, stimulate interest, and ultimately contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of suicide planning