New Library Books - July 2017

This is a list of new books which have recently been added to the JCU Library collection. Books may be borrowed from the displays in the Eddie Koiki Mabo Library and the Cairns Campus Library, unless they are in non-borrowable collections such as Reference. Click on the title links to see more details in Tropicat and to access eBooks online.

610.73071 YOO	Conceptual care mapping
615.8515 OCC 2017	Occupational therapies without borders
616.15 TUR 2018	Clinical hematology
ONLINE	Lifespan development
158.3 IVE 2018	Intentional interviewing and counseling
610.73072 HOU 2018	Nursing research
610.7343 SPR 2018	Community and public health nursing
ONLINE	The developing child
ONLINE	Rang and Dale's pharmacology
615.82083 PHY 2017	Campbell's physical therapy for children
ONLINE	Emergency medicine
618.2 STA 2017	Physiology in childbearing
613.680846 BAU	The older traveller
150.287 SHU 2017	Psychological testing and assessment
150.724 CHR 2015	Research methods, design, and analysis
ONLINE	Sensorimotor life
ONLINE	The sociocultural brain

Seminar: Understanding Juvenile Offenders and Participation in Legal Proceedings - 11 Aug

Jocelyn Wale Seminar Series 2017

Guest Speaker Professor Bruce Watt presenting:
“Understanding Juvenile Offenders and Participation in Legal Proceedings”

Date: Friday, 11 August
Time: 4.00pm – 5.00pm (Cairns/Townsville); 2.00pm – 3.00pm (Singapore)
Venue: JCU Cairns – Room A1-129
Video linked to: JCU Townsville – Room 40-103; Singapore – Room C4-14

Abstract:
Juvenile offenders account for a disproportionate amount of crime. Maltreatment and abuse is highly prevalent among young offenders, with increased rates of co-occurring mental disorders and substance misuse. A significant proportion of juvenile offenders pose an elevated risk for future offending, compared to other offenders, highlighting the need for evidence based risk assessment procedures. Increasingly, research has examined the role of personality characteristics, particularly callous-unemotional traits, in understanding juvenile offending. Such traits have been implicated in the risk for violence, firesetting, and animal cruelty. Among juveniles charged with committing criminal offences, some will not be competent to participate in legal proceedings, raising concern about fitness for trial. The current presentation outlines research studies completed by the presenter in each of these areas, as well as emerging research in the field.

JCU enhances support for students and staff with launch of Equity Contact Officers Network

Jean Fenton & Dr Narelle Biedermann

47 employees across three campuses are now trained and ready to provide support and advice to staff and students who may have, or who are currently experiencing, discrimination, bullying or harassment.

Equity Contact Officers (ECOs) are based on the Townsville, Cairns and Mount Isa campuses and can provide information on matters regarding discrimination, harassment and bullying, including informal and formal resolution options available.

The number of ECOs has been increased from 10 to 47, dramatically increasing the scope of support for students and staff.

They will also assist in raising awareness in the University community about processes and systems that are in place to combat behaviours that impact on workplace and social inclusion at JCU

Manager of Staff Equity and Diversity Jean Fenton explained that the ECOs could be the first point of contact for students and staff who experience any form of bullying, discrimination or harassment. As these individuals are trained to listen and refer people to the procedures, policies and services available to students and staff.

“The Equity Contact Officers will be able to provide staff and students with information to help make informed choices when it comes to dealing with a concern or issue,” she said. “They’re part of JCU’s commitment to providing an environment free of discrimination, bullying and harassment for everyone, whether they’re staff or students.”

The ECOs have all received comprehensive training, delivered by the Anti-Discrimination Commission Queensland. They will also be offered ongoing training and support.

Dr Narelle Biedermann is a senior lecturer in Healthcare Sciences and one of the ECOs. She has written about equity and diversity in healthcare and is thankful she is able to provide this service to staff and students.

“A focus on equity is essential for any organisation to ensure all people who participate in any capacity within the organisation feel safe,” she said. “When a person feels unsafe, whether it’s through bullying or harassment, intimidation, abuse, discrimination, or any other anti-social behaviour, they are vulnerable. Equity means standing up to say that any anti-social behaviour that makes a person feel vulnerable is not acceptable.”

James Cook University is a part of the Universities Australia Respect. Now. Always. campaign and is working towards ensuring that campuses are free from sexual harassment and sexual assault.

Reproduced from https://www.jcu.edu.au/news/releases/2017/july/jcu-boosts-support-for-staff-and-students

JCU Sport Scientists propose new approach to hitting the gym

James Cook University sports scientists are warning that fatigue from weight training can carry over to endurance training and the two activities must be better coordinated to maximise athletes’ performance.

JCU’s Dr Kenji Doma was part of a team examining concurrent training – which features both resistance (eg weights) and endurance training (eg running) on the same or separate days.

“The consensus is that concurrent training is beneficial for endurance development. But we found that if appropriate recovery is not accounted for between each training mode, then it may impair endurance development,” he said.

Dr Doma and colleagues have a new paper out in the journal Sports Medicine. He said they found studies showing reduced performance by athletes, including runners and cyclists, even several days after a single resistance training session.

He said the physiological stress caused by a typical resistance training bout of 40 to 60 minutes can continue for several days post-exercise, as opposed to a full recovery within 24 hours following a typical endurance training bout.

“We want to increase the awareness of resistance training-induced fatigue in the hope of encouraging coaches to think about aspects such as the order of the training, the recovery period, training intensity, etc. We’re trying to limit the carry-over effects of fatigue from resistance to endurance training sessions,” he said.

Dr Doma said the group was not saying that concurrent training should be discontinued.

“There are great benefits to it, but there can be some hidden dangers too. What we want to see is fatigue from resistance sessions minimised so there can be even more benefits gained.”

He said the group could not tell athletes a specific recovery time as that was dependent on the individual, the code, and where the athlete was in the training cycle.

Reproduced from https://www.jcu.edu.au/news/releases/2017/july/scientists-propose-new-approach-to-hitting-the-gym

Publication: Officiating role influences the physical match activity profiles of rugby league touch judges and referees

Pearce, Leesa, Woods, Carl, Sinclair, Wade, and Leicht, Anthony (2017) Officiating role influences the physical match activity profiles of rugby league touch judges and referees. Journal of Human Kinetics. pp. 1-7. (In Press)

https://researchonline.jcu.edu.au/49571/

Abstract
This study investigated the effect of the officiating role on physical activity profiles of rugby league match officials during match-play. Physical performance indicators were collated from 23 match officials, resulting in 78 observations. Match officials were categorised into two groups: referees and touch judges. Microtechnology facilitated the quantification of total distance (m), relative distance (m·min-1), maximum velocity (m·s-1), the percentage of high intensity running distance (% total >3.01 m·s-1), walking distance (<1 m·s-1), jogging distance (1.01 – 3 m·s-1), fast jogging distance (3.01 -5 m·s-1), and sprinting distance (>5 m·s-1). Multivariate analysis modelled the main effect of the officiating role with follow up univariate analyses identifying significant differences. A significant effect was noted (V = 750; F(8, 66) = 24.71; p < 0.05) with referees covering a greater total distance (7767 ±585 vs. 7022 ±759 m), relative distance (90 ±6 vs. 82 ±8 m·min-1), jogging distance (3772 ±752 vs. 3110 ±553 m), and fast jogging distance (2565 ±631 vs. 1816 ±440 m) compared to touch judges. Touch judges covered greater distances while sprinting (1012 ±385 vs. 654 ±241 m). Results provide important guidance in the development of training programs for match officials.

Farewell to our Bachelor of Nursing Science Class of 2017 students

We recently farewelled our Class of 2017 Bachelor of Nursing Science External students attending their final residential intensive block in Townsville - congratulations!

Congratulations to our Cairns Bachelor of Nursing Science Class of 2017 at this week's farewell lunch and last lecture

Class of 2017 Bachelor of Nursing Science students celebrate their last day on campus in Townsville before they head off on a semester of placement and online learning.

Publication: Is cognitive behavioural therapy effective in reducing suicidal ideation and behaviour when delivered face-to-face or via e-health? A systematic review and meta-analysis

Leavey, Katie, and Hawkins, Russell (2017) Is cognitive behavioural therapy effective in reducing suicidal ideation and behaviour when delivered face-to-face or via e-health? A systematic review and meta-analysis. Cognitive Behaviour Therapy. pp. 1-22. (In Press)

https://researchonline.jcu.edu.au/49413/

Abstract
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a widely used psychotherapeutic intervention for suicide prevention despite its efficacy for suicide prevention in adults remaining ambiguous. Reluctance or inability to access face-to-face help suggests that e-health delivery may be a valuable resource for suicidal people. The aim of this study was to systematically review and conduct meta-analysis on research assessing the efficacy of CBT delivered via face-to-face and e-health for suicidal ideation and behaviour. A comprehensive literature search of MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Scopus, PubMed and The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials was conducted. From 764 identified articles, 26 met the inclusion criteria for investigating CBT for suicidal ideation and behaviours in adult populations. Data were extracted on study characteristics and meta-analysis was performed where possible. There was a statistically significant, small to medium effect for face-to-face delivered CBT in reducing suicidal ideation and behaviour although there was significant heterogeneity between the included studies. CBT delivered via e-health was not found to be efficacious for reducing suicidal ideation and behaviour in adults though the number of studies reviewed was small.

Ceremonially placing Jo McArdle's Masters by research thesis into NMN Library

Ceremonially placing Jo McArdle's Masters by research thesis with all our other NMN research graduates over the decades since the School's inception, into the Head of NMN Academic Group library.

Dr Kristin Wicking, Secondary Advisor and Professor Melanie Birks, Head of Nursing , Midwifery & Nutrition, enjoying the addition of Jo's thesis to the ever growing Head NMN Library.

Dr. Kristin Wicking, Secondary Advisor, placing Jo's thesis in the Head NMN Library, savoring the historic moment of being her first ever HDR student to reach completion of their degree.....so proud of Jo!

Publication: Coaches' awareness of doping practices and knowledge about anti-doping control systems in elite sport

Engelberg, Terry, Moston, Stephen, and Blank, Cornelia (2017) Coaches' awareness of doping practices and knowledge about anti-doping control systems in elite sport. Drugs: education, prevention and policy. pp. 1-7. (In Press)

https://researchonline.jcu.edu.au/49053/

Abstract
Coaches may have a significant role in an athlete’s decision to use, or not to use, performance enhancing substances. Research suggests that many coaches do not have the confidence or the knowledge to discuss anti-doping issues with their athletes. This study aimed to assess coaches’ awareness of doping practices, coaches’ knowledge of anti-doping control systems (random testing, out of competition testing, the biological passport and the athlete whereabouts system) and coaches’ involvement with anti-doping education for their athletes. Individual interviews were conducted with 19 elite or professional level coaches representing the sports of basketball, cricket, hockey, soccer, rowing, ski cross, taekwondo, swimming and triathlon. The findings suggest that although many coaches personally know doping athletes, few believe that athletes will ever be tested. Knowledge of anti-doping control systems, specifically the biological passport and the whereabouts system was very poor. Coaches rarely discuss doping themes with their athletes or other coaches. Taken together these findings paint a worrying picture of the state of coaches’ knowledge of doping and their commitment to anti-doping education and awareness. While anti-doping education must become a standard part of the coaching education process, this should be backed with strict compliance legislation that obliges coaches to take part in continuous education and provide proof that they provide preventive measures for their athletes. Additionally, a professional development plan to ensure that knowledge remains accurate and current may be required.

Taking the scenic route through a career in healthcare

Time spent in hospital as a sickly child sparked Sue Edwards to pursue a career in healthcare, with a few detours on the way.

Nurse, mother, teacher, midwife, PhD student — Sue Edwards has had many roles during her life. The self-confessed eternal student has taken the road less travelled to be where she is today, juggling family life with academia and coordinating the Master of Nursing (Nurse Practitioner) program at James Cook University.


For the full story see https://www.jcu.edu.au/brighter/articles/taking-the-scenic-route-through-a-career-in-healthcare

Publication: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health and wellbeing: social emotional wellbeing and strengths-based psychology

Kilcullen, Meegan, Swinbourne, Anne, and Cadet-James, Yvonne (2017) Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health and wellbeing: social emotional wellbeing and strengths-based psychology. Clinical Psychologist. pp. 1-11. (In Press)

https://researchonline.jcu.edu.au/49387/

Abstract

Objective: Addressing the continued health disparities between Australia's Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples requires a multi-sector approach in which the discipline of psychology has a central role. These disparities are partially driven by a lack of culturally appropriate methods of health delivery. This study aimed to explore urban Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders' perceptions of health and wellbeing through social emotional wellbeing and strengths-based frameworks.

Methods: A qualitative study was conducted with 19 urban Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Data was collected via individual semi-structured interviews and focus groups. Thematic analysis was conducted to identify strengths-based themes within the data.

Results: Several attributes and values emerged from participants’ understandings of enhancing mental health and wellbeing. These included acceptance, respect, forgiveness and integrity, honesty, courage, empathy, mindfulness, and
 spirituality.

Conclusions: There are similarities between the central tenets of the strengths- and values-based frameworks and a model of social emotional wellbeing. It is important to note that these attributes and values are understood at the individual, community, and cultural level. Each of these attributes and values are intricately linked to being mentally healthy and having strong cultural identity. These similarities may provide an avenue for shared cross-cultural understandings and knowledges of mental health and wellbeing that will support culturally appropriate service delivery.

How does a rugby team from Scotland cope with competing in the tropics?

Today JCU's Institute of Sport and Exercise Science (ISES) researchers Dr Glenn Deakin and Dr Stephen Bird met with Chair of the Scotland Rugby League Keith Hogg. Staff and students will be working with the Scottish team on strength and conditioning, recovery management and fatigue monitoring in the lead-up to the Rugby League World Cup in October. They will be playing two games in Cairns, and another in Christchurch.

Reproduced from https://www.facebook.com/jamescookuniversity/photos/a.10150106355336178.285634.25932696177/10155739232986178/?type=3&theater

Publication: Age-related changes in segmental accuracy and error production in Korean-English bilingual children

Kim, Jae-Hyun, Ballard, Elaine, and McCann, Clare (2017) Age-related changes in segmental accuracy and error production in Korean-English bilingual children: implications for cinical speech sound assessment procedures. Speech, Language and Hearing. pp. 1-14. (In Press)

https://researchonline.jcu.edu.au/48802/

Abstract
A lack of information about typical phonological development in bilingual children presents as a challenge to many speech-language pathologists assessing bilingual children with suspected speech sound disorder. This study investigated age-related changes in speech accuracy and error production in 16 preschool Korean-English bilingual children, aged between 3;1 and 5;11, in New Zealand. We found considerable individual variations in the longitudinal data. In particular, we found some error patterns emerged during the course of development, instead of being progressively resolved with age. Our findings suggest that speech-language pathologists should take a considered approach to identifying bilingual children with speech sound disorder solely based on the information provided in cross-sectional studies. We suggest that a follow-up session may provide valuable information facilitating the clinical assessment procedure to identify bilingual children with speech sound disorder.

Demand for nurse educators is on the rise

With the nation's healthcare sector facing major nurse shortages, nurse educators – nurses who teach nurses – are in more demand than ever before.

As growing numbers of nurses gain university qualifications to join the workforce and practising nurses seek further study to advance their nursing career, nurse education is a burgeoning area of employment that shows no signs of slowing down. In fact, the latest Australian Government employment outlook forecasts future growth for nurse educators is set to surge over the next five years.

Job advantages
Nurse educators assess, plan, implement and evaluate nursing education and training. They also coordinate student placements and support, and use a range of innovative technological solutions, such as telehealth communications and online tools, to deliver learning.

While working in nurse education is a move away from direct patient care, nurse educators are crucial to shaping and strengthening the future of the nursing workforce. At the cornerstone of nurse learning, nurse educators have the power to guide and equip large numbers of nurses with the skills and expertise to achieve best practice in nursing – to improve patient outcomes.

For the full story see https://online.jcu.edu.au/blog/demand-for-nurse-educators-on-the-rise

Scholarship: Futures in Health Indigenous Scholarship

The House Call Doctor Futures in Health Indigenous Scholarship recognises the immense contributions of Indigenous Australians throughout all sectors of society. However, the scholarship also acknowledges that Indigenous health professionals remain too few, numbering an estimated 0.3% of the national healthcare workforce.

About the Scholarship

• One student will receive $10,000 to go towards their academic costs in 2018
• Applications will open on 15th June 2017 and close on 15th December 2017

Eligibility - You must be:

• 18 years or older
• An Australian citizen or permanent resident
• Identify as Aboriginal and/ or Torres Strait Islander
• Be an undergraduate/ postgraduate student studying a medical/ health field at an Australian University
• Entering at least your 2nd year of study in 2018
• Can provide written documentation where required, such as a Statutory Declaration or other supporting documents

For further information and applications see https://housecalldoctor.com.au/about/indigenous-scholarship/

Publication: Parenting practices of Singaporean mothers of children with ADHD

Nomanbhoy, Alefiya, and Hawkins, Russell (2017) Parenting practices of Singaporean mothers of children with ADHD. Proceedings of Singapore Healthcare. pp. 1-8. (In Press)

https://researchonline.jcu.edu.au/49391/

Abstract

Objectives: We wanted to determine: (1) whether ADHD symptoms were more common in mothers of children with ADHD; (2) whether mothers of children with ADHD differed in their parenting strategies; and (3) whether there was a difference in care-giving arrangements for children with ADHD and without ADHD. This was done by comparing mothers of children with ADHD with mothers of children without ADHD in Singapore.

Methods: Mothers of children with ADHD (n=46) and mothers of children without ADHD (n=45) completed the Conners’ Parent Rating Scale-Revised, the Conners’ Adult ADHD Rating Scale-Self Report and the Alabama Parenting Questionnaire.

Results: Mothers of children with ADHD did not report higher levels of current ADHD symptoms compared with the control group. However, they did use less adaptive parenting strategies. There were also no differences in the reported behaviours of children cared for by a paid worker and those cared for by mothers.

Conclusions: Data support the Singapore Clinical Guidelines recommendations for the promotion of parenting skills, and referral to parenting programmes for parents of children with ADHD. The promotion of parenting skills and referral to parenting programmes for mothers of children with ADHD might include the option of electronic forms of programme delivery. The model of using paid help in the home, which is commonplace in Singapore, does not seem to disadvantage children with ADHD.

Masterclass series for Psychologists & Allied Health Professionals

MICRRH and the College of Healthcare Sciences, James Cook University, are providing AHPRA approved Supervisors Masterclasses. These one-day Masterclasses are suitable for all clinical supervisors of allied health professionals. Details of the one-day Masterclasses and registration are provided below. A discount will be offered if you register for both Masterclasses at the same location.

Masterclass 1: Supervising for ethical practice in rural and remote settings
Allied Health Practitioners working in rural and remote practice face challenges to their ability to fully comply with their professional ethical requirements, such as managing multiple relationships, confidentiality, professional isolation, operating within limits of professional competence, and managing interagency relationships and shared caseloads. A key supervisory skill is to be able to guide supervisees through these challenges and to evaluate the supervisee’s competence in this area in the context of their rural and remote practice. This can be challenging for supervisors who may also be managing these dilemmas in their own practice, or who may not live in the same community as the supervisee, and may not have a clear understanding of the ethical dilemmas faced by their supervisee. This Masterclass will provide supervisors with a framework to navigate these challenges.

Masterclass 2: Critical reflection and planning for feedback in supervision
Reflective practice is considered to be an important skill for effective clinical practice. A key supervisory skill is to be able to include opportunities for the supervisee to engage in critical reflection, as well as the supervisor to model critical reflection of their own practice and supervision. In order to bring critical reflection into the supervisory relationship in a systematic way, it is important to have feedback processes in place that can be planned for and that help support reflective practice. This Masterclass will provide supervisors with processes and skills that will help plan for feedback and support reflective practice.

Masterclasses will be held in Mount Isa, Longreach, Emerald, Rockhampton, Mackay, Townsville and Cairns. For further details, dates and registrations vist the MICRRH website at https://www.jcu.edu.au/mount-isa-centre-for-rural-and-remote-health/education/professional-development/masterclasses

Publication: Biological maturity and the anthropometric, physical and technical assessment of talent identified U16 Australian footballers

Cripps, Ashley J., Joyce, Christopher, Woods, Carl T., and Hopper, Luke (2017) Biological maturity and the anthropometric, physical and technical assessment of talent identified U16 Australian footballers. International Journal of Sports Science & Coaching, 12 (3). pp. 344-350.

https://researchonline.jcu.edu.au/49276/

Abstract
This study compared biological maturation, anthropometric, physical and technical skill measures between talent and non-talent identified junior Australian footballers. Players were recruited from the under 16 Western Australian Football League and classified as talent (state representation; n = 25, 15.7 ± 0.3 y) or non-talent identified (non-state representation; n = 25, 15.6 ± 0.4 y). Players completed a battery of anthropometric, physical and technical skill assessments. Maturity was estimated using years from peak height velocity calculations. Binary logistic regression was used to identify the variables demonstrating the strongest association with the main effect of ‘status’. A receiver operating characteristic curve was used to assess the level of discrimination provided by the strongest model. Talent identified under 16 players were biologically older, had greater stationary and dynamic leaps and superior handball skill when compared to their non-talent identified counterparts. The strongest model of status included standing height, non-dominant dynamic vertical jump and handball outcomes (AUC = 83.4%, CI = 72.1%–95.1%). Biological maturation influences anthropometric and physical capacities that are advantageous for performance in Australian football; talent identification methods should factor biological maturation as a confound in the search for junior players who are most likely to succeed in senior competition.

Chinese-Australian love greater than the challenges of intercultural marriage, study finds

Love can trump the challenges of relationships and culture, according to one of the findings of a study into intercultural marriage between Chinese and Australian lovebirds.

The study conducted by James Cook University researchers Wendy Li and Amy Forbes focussed on marriages between Australian men and Chinese women aged between 30 and 75 living in north Queensland.

Of the 12 couples involved in the study, the majority had meet via online dating sites and six of the women had very limited English language skills.

"Even for those already married for a couple of years here in Australia, many of them can still not communicate in either language," Dr Li said.

"Some of them are still using an electronic translator or Google Translate, but many mistakes occur in the translations so they sometimes are very frustrated."

Dr Li said as more people turn to the internet to find love, intercultural relationships are likely to continue to grow.

For the full story see
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-07-10/chinese-australian-love-trumps-cultural-challenges/8694308

Publication: Methodological consistency and measurement reliability of transversus abdominis real time ultrasound imaging in chronic low back pain populations: a systematic review

Whittle, Connie, Flavell, Carol Ann, and Gordon, Susan Jayne (2017) Methodological consistency and measurement reliability of transversus abdominis real time ultrasound imaging in chronic low back pain populations: a systematic review. Physical Therapy Reviews. pp. 1-12. (In Press)

https://researchonline.jcu.edu.au/49439/

Abstract

Background: Real time ultrasound imaging (RTUI) is used to measure transversus abdominis (TrA) thickness in low back pain (LBP) populations. However, individuals with chronic low back pain (CLBP) pose specific imaging challenges, such as older age and higher body mass index, compared to asymptomatic populations or acute and sub-acute LBP groups. These challenges potentially increase measurement error and may require different imaging methods.

Objectives: This review describes the methodologies and reported reliability for RTUI measurement of TrA specific to CLBP populations.

Methods: A systematic database search of Medline, CINAHL, PEDro, the full Cochrane library, Scopus, and Informit identified 20 studies that used RTUI to measure TrA of CLBP participants. Two independent raters appraised the quality of the studies using the QualSyst and the QAREL critical appraisal tools.

Results: Methodological quality varied from low to high. Methods for patient and transducer positioning and muscle measurement were inconsistent between studies. Eight articles cited reliability results from past studies of non-CLBP populations. Only two studies reported reliability in CLBP populations specifically and found higher Intraclass Correlation Coefficients for thickness measures at rest (0.63–0.97), compared to thickness change over time or contraction ratios (0.28–0.80).

Conclusions: Inconsistency of methodology, variable methodological quality, and limited and variable reliability reporting was highlighted in this review. This LBP subgroup poses challenges for RTUI, therefore future research should include standardized methods for image acquisition. This will improve the quality of study methods, reliability of TrA measurement, and improve the applicability and comparibility of research evidence available to clinicians.

Seminar: “Gambling Benefits and Harms: Who has the fun and who pays the price?”

2017 Jocelyn Wale Seminar Series

Guest Speaker Professor Matthew Rockloff presenting:
“Gambling Benefits and Harms: Who has the fun and who pays the price?”

Date: Friday 28 July 2017
Timte: 4.00-5.00pm (Townsville & Cairns); 2.00-3.00pm (Singapore)
Venue: Room 134-010 (JCU Townsville); linked to A1-129 (JCU Cairns); C4-14 (JCU Singapore).

Abstract:
Gambling has recreational benefits, but also costs to people’s financial and mental wellbeing. A unique application of the World Health Organization’s (WHOs) Burden of Diseases (BoD) framework allowed for a quantification of the harms of gambling in the state of Victoria. This research provides unique insights into the absolute scale of gambling problems; ranking it as a public health problem of similar magnitude to alcohol abuse disorder. Moreover, it reveals that the overall burden of problems is paradoxically concentrated among the many people suffering from relatively less severe gambling problems, rather than from the ranks of so-called “problem gamblers”. Further data using the BoD framework calculated the recreational benefits of gambling for comparison against the costed harms. The results show that the net benefits of gambling may exceed the costs, mainly due to the large number of people who enjoy gambling with few or no attendant harms. The ethical, methodological and philosophical implications of the research are discussed.

Publication: Exercise and executive functioning in older women

Helmes, Edward, and Harris, Steven (2017) Exercise and executive functioning in older women. Journal of Women and Aging. pp. 1-9. (In Press)

https://researchonline.jcu.edu.au/49108/

Abstract
Research suggests that exercise can slow the rate of decline in cognitive functioning in older adults. The effects of aerobic and resistance exercise on executive functioning was examined in 68 women over 50 years of age. Participants completed the Tower of London and Benton Controlled Oral Word Association tests. Findings indicated that individuals participating in both aerobic and resistance exercises performed significantly better than individuals not participating in exercise. Individuals who were participating in both aerobic and resistance exercises did not perform disproportionately better. Thus the form of exercise appears to be less important than engaging in some form of exercise.

Thanks to our JCUCHS student volunteers from Stroke Foundation

A big thank you from the Stroke Foundation to our JCU College of Healthcare Sciences student volunteers who offer health checks at community events and pharmacies in Cairns. Attached are a few pictures of the students doing a great job at the Cairns Home Show, the IWD breakfast at the Hilton and in pharmacy.

Publication: Non-metric multidimensional performance indicator scaling reveals seasonal and team dissimilarity within the National Rugby League

Woods, Carl T., Robertson, Sam, Sinclair, Wade H., and Collier, Neil French (2017) Non-metric multidimensional performance indicator scaling reveals seasonal and team dissimilarity within the National Rugby League. Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport. pp. 1-17. (In Press)

https://researchonline.jcu.edu.au/49477/

Abstract

Objectives: Analysing the dissimilarity of seasonal and team profiles within elite sport may reveal the evolutionary dynamics of game-play, while highlighting the similarity of individual team profiles. This study analysed seasonal and team dissimilarity within the National Rugby League (NRL) between the 2005 to 2016 seasons.

Methods: Total seasonal values for 15 performance indicators were collected for every NRL team over the analysed period (n = 190 observations). Non-metric multidimensional scaling was used to reveal seasonal and team dissimilarity.

Results: Compared to the 2005 to 2011 seasons, the 2012 to 2016 seasons were in a state of flux, with a relative dissimilarity in the positioning of team profiles on the ordination surface. There was an abrupt change in performance indicator characteristics following the 2012 season, with the 2014 season reflecting a large increase in the total count of ‘all run metres’ (d = 1.21; 90% CI = 0.56 – 1.83), ‘kick return metres’ (d = 2.99; 90% CI = 2.12 – 3.84) and decrease in ‘missed tackles’ (d = -2.43; 90% CI = -3.19 – -1.64) and ‘tackle breaks’ (d = -2.41; 90% CI = -3.17 – -1.62). Interpretation of team ordination plots showed that certain teams evolved in (dis)similar ways over the analysed period.

Conclusions: It appears that NRL match-types evolved following the 2012 season and are in a current state of flux. The modification of coaching tactics and rule changes may have contributed to these observations. Coaches could use these results when designing prospective game strategies in the NRL.

Nurses Memorial Centre Scholarships - 2018 applications now open

The Nurses Memorial Centre (NMC) offers a number of scholarships to exceptional candidates, such as nurses and midwives, undertaking postgraduate study at an Australian University or accredited higher education institution. The purpose of these scholarships is to increase access to postgraduate study for nurses and midwives as part of the NMC’s mission to act as “a living memorial” by advancing the nursing profession through education.

The following scholarships that are offered through the Nurses Memorial Centre:

• The Australian Legion of Ex-Servicemen and Women Scholarships
• Vivian Bullwinkel Award – Nurses Memorial Centre Scholarship and Award
• Betty Jeffery Award – Nurses Memorial Centre Scholarship and Award
• Indigenous Scholarship for Indigenous Nurses
• The Anne Murray Mental Health Scholarship
• Prince Henry’s Affiliates Scholarship

In the 2017 application round, scholarship applications will be accepted for studies to be undertaken in 2018.

Scholarship applications are taken between 1 July and 31 August each year and you can apply online.

http://www.nursesmemorialcentre.org.au/scholarships/

Publication: Palliative care in the neonatal unit: neonatal nursing staff perceptions of facilitators and barriers in a regional tertiary nursery

Kilcullen, Meegan, and Ireland, Susan (2017) Palliative care in the neonatal unit: neonatal nursing staff perceptions of facilitators and barriers in a regional tertiary nursery. BMC Palliative Care, 16. pp. 1-12.

https://researchonline.jcu.edu.au/49388/

Abstract

Background: Neonatology has made significant advances in the last 30 years. Despite the advances in treatments, not all neonates survive and a palliative care model is required within the neonatal context. Previous research has focused on the barriers of palliative care provision. A holistic approach to enhancing palliative care provision should include identifying both facilitators and barriers. A strengths-based approach would allow barriers to be addressed while also enhancing facilitators. The current study qualitatively explored perceptions of neonatal nurses about facilitators and barriers to delivery of palliative care and also the impact of the regional location of the unit.

Methods: The study was conducted at the Townsville Hospital, which is the only regional tertiary neonatal unit in Australia. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of eight neonatal nurses. Thematic analysis of the data was conducted within a phenomenological framework.

Results: Six themes emerged regarding family support and staff factors that were perceived to support the provision of palliative care of a high quality. Staff factors included leadership, clinical knowledge, and morals, values, and beliefs. Family support factors included emotional support, communication, and practices within the unit. Five themes
 emerged from the data that were perceived to be barriers to providing quality palliative care. Staff perceived education, lack of privacy, isolation, staff characteristics and systemic (policy, and procedure) factors to impact upon palliative care provision. The regional location of the unit also presented unique facilitators and barriers to care.

Conclusions: This study identified and explored facilitators and barriers in the delivery of quality palliative care for neonates in a regional tertiary setting. Themes identified suggested that a strengths-approach, which engages and amplifies facilitating factors while identified barriers are addressed or minimized, would be successful in supporting quality palliative care provision in the neonatal care setting. Study findings will be used to inform clinical education and practice.

Seeking research participants: “An Investigation of the Factors that Influence Cyclone Mitigation Behaviour”.

Hi, my name is Mitchell Scovell and I am a postgraduate research student at James Cook University. I would like to invite you to take part in my research project investigating cyclone mitigation behaviours. In this research, I am interested in understanding more about the factors that influence specific behaviours aimed at reducing cyclone related property damage.

The study is also being conducted by JCU College of Healthcare Sciences' Dr Connar McShane, Dr Anne Swinbourne and Dr Daniel Smith and will contribute to my Thesis for my PhD at James Cook University. This research will also contribute to a research grant I am involved in with the JCU Cyclone Testing Station funded by Suncorp Group Limited.

https://jcuchs.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_07fEkWXFabuijpX

If you currently live in coastal North Queensland (between Rockhampton and Cairns) and would like to participate in this study, you will be presented with an online questionnaire. With your consent, the questionnaire will enquire about your perceptions of cyclone threats, your perceptions relating to specific mitigation behaviours as well as what mitigation behaviours you have performed in the past or intend to perform in the future. The questionnaire should only take approximately 15 minutes of your time.

Taking part in this study is completely voluntary and you can stop taking part in the study at any time without explanation or prejudice by closing your internet browser. By completing this questionnaire you are consenting to participate in this study.

The data from the study will be used in research publications and reports as part of my PhD Research and the research grant funded by Suncorp Group Limited. Your responses will be anonymous and you will be completely unidentifiable in these reports and publications.

Thank you for your interest in completing this questionnaire and contributing to my Research Project! Your time is greatly appreciated. If you know of anyone else that would be interested in participating, could you please pass on the link to the study.

If you have any questions about the study, please contact Mitchell Scovell or Connar McShane.

Principal Investigator:
Mitchell Scovell
College of Healthcare Sciences
James Cook University
Phone: 4781 6022
Email: mitchell.scovell@my.jcu.edu.au

Supervisor:
Connar McShane
College of Healthcare Sciences
James Cook University
Phone: 4781 6879
Email: connar.mcshane@jcu.edu.au

Publication: Classification characteristics of a chronic low back pain population using a combined McKenzie and patho-anatomical assessment

Flavell, Carol Ann, Gordon, Susan, and Marshman, Laurence (2016) Classification characteristics of a chronic low back pain population using a combined McKenzie and patho-anatomical assessment. Manual Therapy, 26. pp. 201-207.

https://researchonline.jcu.edu.au/46429/

Abstract

Background: Physiotherapists use musculo-skeletal classification systems for patient assessment. Since its early development, the McKenzie lumbar spine assessment (MK) has been incorporated into examination algorithms and combined with a series of patho-anatomical diagnostic tests. No previous studies have used a MK and a combined examination (MK-C) to provide a detailed profile of patients, report and compare the classification characteristics of a chronic low back pain (CLBP) population.

Objective: To report the classification characteristics of a CLBP population using MK and MK-C examinations, and conduct inter-classification comparison of the MK-C for demographics, the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), Roland Morris Disability Index (RM), Modified Somatic Perceptions Questionnaire (MSPQ), symptom duration and intensity.

Method: A prospective cross-sectional study conducted in a spinal clinic by a MK trained physiotherapist.

Results: Results were obtained in 150 patients. Using MK, 31% (n = 47) of participants were classified as inconclusive. Following MK-C only 6% of participants remained inconclusive (n = 9). The most frequent MK-C classification was facet joint syndrome (FJS) (49%). Participants with FJS were significantly older than those classified as discogenic (p < 0.001; CI 3.96 ̶ 19.74), or mixed (p < 0.001; CI 5.98 ̶ 36.41). Participants classified as discogenic had significantly higher RM (p = 0.022) and MSPQ (p = 0.005) scores than FJS.

Conclusion: Results indicated that 94% of CLBP patients could be classified using a MK-C. The most common presentation in CLBP was facet joint syndrome. Age, RM and MSPQ appeared to be distinguishing characteristics of this population. Future studies should be conducted to establish the validity and reliability of the MK-C.

New Library Books June 2017

This is a list of new books which have recently been added to the JCU Library collection. 

Books may be borrowed from the displays in the Eddie Koiki Mabo Library and the Cairns Campus Library, unless they are in non-borrowable collections such as Reference. 

Click on the title links to see more details in Tropicat and to access eBooks online.

ONLINE	Flourishing in emerging adulthood
ONLINE	Practical supervision for counsellors who work with young people
ONLINE	Diverse careers in community psychology
ONLINE	Empathy in health professions education and patient care
ONLINE	Becoming a reflective practitioner
ONLINE	Endocrine disruptors, brain, and behavior
ONLINE	Evidence-based treatment and practice with older adults
ONLINE	Raising a secure child
ONLINE	Pica in individuals with developmental disabilities
ONLINE	The handbook of child and adolescent clinical psychology
ONLINE	Working with kids who bully
615.85150994 OCC	Occupational therapy in Australia
610.690994 AND	Portfolios for health professionals
616.07 ROB T4 2018	Robbins basic pathology
610.73 CLI T2 2018	Clinical nursing skills & techniques
610.73 NUR T6 2017	Nursing care plans
610.73072 POL 2018	Essentials of nursing research
610.73072 WIL 2017	Succeeding in literature reviews and research project plans for nursing students
612.78 HOI	Foundations of speech and hearing
615.82019 PSY	Psychologically informed physiotherapy
616.8515 OCC 2017	Occupational therapy for people experiencing illness, injury or impairment

CRANAplus Undergraduate Remote Placement Scholarships - Round two applications now open

Each year CRANAplus offers a number of scholarships. These scholarships provide financial assistance of up to $1000 per applicant, per remote placement. They can be applied to the cost of fares, accommodation and other incidental costs incurred by a student undertaking an undergraduate placement in a remote area of Australia and its external Territories.

Round Two for placements 1 July - 31 December.

Applications open 1 July and Close 30 October.

https://crana.org.au/membership/scholarships