Rangahau Aranga: AUT Graduate Review

Who Me? An Inclusive Future for Health Systems Leadership

Becky George — Thu, 28 Sep 2023 03:11:38 +0000

Our future health and disability systems require leaders prepared to lead integrated, consumer focussed services. These leaders need to engage with current paradigm shifts occurring in global health care and focus on delivering interprofessional services (Marinelli-Poole et al., 2011; Markham, 2015). There is a legacy of medical and nursing professions dominating system leadership roles over Allied Health Professions (Gauld & Horsburgh, 2015). To foster an effective and equitable leadership culture, we need to equip our workforce to lead a health system fit for contemporary society. In this presentation I will report on a study which explored the experiences of Allied Health clinicians who have already stepped into health systems leadership roles. This study sought to understand what factors and experiences enabled them to progress into these leadership roles. By analysing the shared experiences, we hope to learn what change is required to support more Allied Health clinicians into health systems leadership. Three themes have emerged from the qualitative analysis of data shared during semi structured interviews. Reflexive thematic analysis, visual doodling, and the software, XMind and NVivo, were all used to organise and help with data analysis. The three emergent themes are, 1.) Where do I fit? 2.) Where do we fit? 3.) Where is there space at the table? I will discuss these themes within the context of our national health system and what their implications might be for the future of health leadership development.

Does Management at a Neuroscience Centre Improve Outcomes for Patients with a Severe Traumatic Brain Injury? A Systematic Review

Ben Jones — Thu, 28 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Patients with severe Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) require management in hospital. However, should they be directly transported to a Neuroscience Centre (NC) or can they be safely treated at a local hospital before being subsequently transferred to an NC? This systematic review was undertaken to evaluate what effect transfers to an NC had on mortality rates amongst adult patients with a severe TBI. A systematic literature review was conducted using the databases Medline, CINAHL, Google Scholar and Cochrane. The inclusion criteria were: published between 2010 and 2023, adult patients (≥18) with severe TBI (Glasgow coma scale ≤8). The primary outcome studied was mortality. The secondary outcomes were, the impact that subsequent transfer to an NC had on mortality, the delay subsequent transfer had on surgery, and the accuracy of Emergency Medical Service (EMS) triage. The review analysed seven studies. Four reported no statistically significant difference in mortality in patients taken to an NC, despite NCs receiving more severely injured patients. Transferring patients from a local hospital to an NC was significantly associated with reduced mortality in one study (aOR, 0.79, 95% CI, 0.64-0.96), and reduced 24-hour (RR 0.31, 0.11-0.83) and 30-day (RR 0.66, 0.46-0.96) mortality in another. Subsequent transfers prolonged delays to surgery in several studies but were not statistically significant. This systematic review found that directly transporting severe TBI patients to an NC did not improve mortality. Mortality at 24-hour and 30-days was significantly reduced in patients who were subsequently transferred to an NC. A subset of patients benefit from urgent neurosurgical intervention as direct transfer to an NC improved their mortality rates. Severe TBI patients were accurately recognised by EMS staff. The skewing of more severely injured patients directly transported to an NC may be masking any survival benefit of direct NC admission.

Numerical Modelling of Thermoacoustic Stirling Engines & Refrigerators

Holly Butson — Fri, 29 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Thermoacoustic machines depend on the complex relationship between thermodynamics and acoustics, and thus understanding it is vital in order to analyse the working principles and optimise parameters (i.e. geometrical or operational) to improve their performance. This paper investigates how numerical modelling can be used to explore this relationship and compares the accuracy of the performance predictions for different numerical simulation software. The software used included one designed for modelling Stirling machines called ‘Sage’ and one designed for modelling thermoacoustic machines called ‘DeltaEC’. To compare their results a model of both a thermoacoustic Stirling engine and refrigerator were developed from existing models in published papers, which contained experimental data to validate the numerical models. The results from the thermoacoustic Stirling engine model show that there is good agreement between the predictions from DeltaEC and the experimental data, as well as relatively good agreement between the Sage and DeltaEC predictions. However, due to Sage requiring a different approach to model the boundary conditions for the standing wave type machine (i.e. one end closed) the predictions varied slightly from those by DeltaEC. The results from the thermoacoustic Stirling refrigerator model, however, show improved agreement between the predictions from Sage and DeltaEC – potentially due to Sage and DeltaEC using a similar approach to model the boundary conditions for the travelling wave type (i.e. two open ends). Overall, it was found that although both can accurately model travelling wave thermoacoustic machines, the nature of Sage’s solving method makes it more complex to model the standing wave type compared to DeltaEC. A discussion on the use of numerical models as a tool for better understanding thermoacoustic machines, and the importance of the accuracy of the results to allow for optimisation and improvement in their design is presented.

An Exploration of how Intimate Partner Relationships Impact the Mental Wellbeing of Men in the Construction Sector in Aotearoa New Zealand: Understanding the Interplay Between Work, Family, and Employee Mental Health

Mohsin Ali — Fri, 29 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0000

This poster presentation aims to illustrate a comprehensive literature review and methodology used in my study. The main purpose of this study is to explore how intimate partner relationships impact the mental wellbeing of men in the construction sector in Aotearoa New Zealand. The focus of my research is on relationship breakdown, which is a predominant theme preceding suicide by men in the industry (Bryson et al., 2019). Several studies have investigated specific elements of intimate partner relationships associated with suicidality, including intimate partner violence and abuse (Devries et al., 2013; McLaughlin et al., 2012). There is currently no research within Aotearoa New Zealand that has explored the interplay between men’s work, family, and mental health. For this study, I will use qualitative research methodology because I seek to capture the experiences, perceptions and perspectives of construction workers, their intimate partners, and key stakeholders. The underlying theoretical paradigms will be constructivism and interpretivism. Grounded theory will be used to develop a theoretical basis for understanding the different influences on mental health and the role that intimate partner relationships play in workers’ mental wellbeing. Data collection for Study 1 will comprise semi-structured face-to-face interviews (n = ∼ 20) with key stakeholders in the construction sector. Study 2 will comprise 15-20 semi-structured face-to-face interviews with construction workers across a range of occupations, as well as interviews with their intimate partners (30-40 interviews in total). Participants will be recruited through the MATES in construction programme. The interview data will be transcribed verbatim, and NVivo software will be used for data management and coding. It is hoped that this study will contribute to understanding more about the risk factors associated with poor mental health in the construction industry and that it may stimulate action from stakeholders in better supporting the mental wellbeing of its workers including impacting organisational and governmental policies and procedures within the construction sector in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Baby in a Crib: Fall or Prevention

Neda Khan — Fri, 29 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0000

For babies, a fall from a crib can cause significant injuries or even death. In this presentation, I aim to present a comprehensive review of baby healthcare relating to the baby’s state, either awakening or sleeping, illustrating the fundamental practical issues explored in this study. For example, opportunities to improve babies’ safety against falls in families with working mothers have been overlooked. Moreover, I will discuss the proposed architecture as well, designed using computer vision techniques and movement sensors to further alleviate the falling scenarios in my study. In this research, a comprehensive review has been done on fall safety for babies ages 6 months to 4 years of age, which brought remarkable solutions for babies’ safety and motivated this research work. The main objective of this project is to build up an alert-based system that can avoid and reduce the risks of falling or dangerous scenarios for babies. At the first stage of the Baby Fall Prediction System, the primary objective is to detect the postures of the baby in a crib while sleeping or just awakening with the help of machine learning algorithms and convolution neural network based model. This system will then be integrated with the Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) sensors in a ‘smart onesie’ to identify potentially risky scenarios such as babies crawling, rolling over, standing, or climbing the side of the cot. Based on the identified scenarios, parents or caregivers will be given an alert to warn them about risky scenarios. The proposed research project will be beneficial for the baby as well as the parents. The developed system could reduce infant mortality and contribute to society’s welfare.

Discipline and Punish: A Study Exploring the Adoption of NPM-Inspired Accounting Reforms in the Provincial Governments in the Solomon Islands

Marianne Oru — Fri, 29 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0000

This presentation aims to illustrate part of my findings which capture the adoption of New Public Management (NPM)-inspired reforms at the provincial government level in the Solomon Islands. The overall aim of the study was to examine the adoption of two NPM-inspired accounting reforms (cash-based IPSAS – or International Public Sector Accounting Standards – and performance-based budgeting) and a participatory budgeting system in the Solomon Islands. The paucity of attention given to Public Sector Accounting Research (PSAR) in socio-cultural settings in developing countries motivated this study. Drawing on Foucault’s disciplinary power (Foucault, 1977) the study demonstrated how accounting as a ‘calculative infrastructure’ was able to transform the provincial governments in the Solomon Islands. The study applies the interpretive methodology that integrates with a critical theory to interpret the data (Chua, 1986b; Power & Laughlin, 1992). A total of 60 semi-structured interviews were held at both levels of government (national and provincial). Documents were also gathered, including historical data. Thematic analysis was employed and was guided by Foucault’s principles of critical interpretation. The presentation concludes by highlighting how accounting as a ‘calculative infrastructure’ plays an instrumental role in mediating conflict between political groups. In doing so, the study supports prior calls for an in-depth analysis of neoliberal reforms such as those inspired by the NPM in order to better understand the manifold implications of accounting in a wider social context.

A Study on New Zealand Television: Professional Perspectives on Industry Sustainability

Rachel Daniels — Fri, 29 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Fragmented by the plethora of internationalised television choices, audiences are now scattered across a multitude of programme options on a variety of global Subscription Video on Demand (SVoD) streaming platforms, broadcasters and television services. New Zealand audiences are predominantly choosing globalised services (Glasshouse Consulting, 2021). This research examines what the New Zealand television industry is doing to remain relevant and connected to its audiences. I seek to fill a gap in the current knowledge on the impact of international SVoD television services such as Netflix, Disney+, and Apple TV+ on the local industry as New Zealand domestic audiences appear to shift away from local services and storytelling. The research examines New Zealand television industry professional expert perspectives to identify and interpret the values, conflicts and challenges of protecting (while fostering the growth of) local culture through content, and the impact of public policy. Data has been collected via in-depth semi-structured interviews with industry experts. Open-ended questions have allowed for flexibility in the interview process, so that subjects can delve into their experiences, views and perspectives. The qualitative data has been analysed using thematic analysis, with patterns and themes that have emerged within the layers of data identified and discussed (Braun & Clarke, 2013; Braun et al., 2019). This presentation will address preliminary research findings which identify how the industry's need for economic sustainability has often compromised local productions and local cultural objectives, opening a debate on whether local stories are produced for local audiences or whether they should transcend national boundaries. The research reflects differing views on who should moderate and determine the cultural specificity of content, and where the sector should focus.

Dental Anxiety: A ‘Twin Burden’ for Patients and Dental Professionals

Richard Pereire — Fri, 29 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Oral health is integral to general health; yet oral diseases are the most widespread non-communicable diseases affecting almost half the world’s population. Much has been documented on patient dental anxiety; but there is a dearth of literature on how dentists deal with the problem afflicting themselves as well. Dentists, perceived as guardians of oral health therefore, need to remain vigilant to their own health needs. This study will employ a mixed-method research approach. First, I will survey New Zealand dentists on how they identify and manage anxious patients in their clinical practices. The study’s second phase will involve conducting semi-structured interviews (Appukuttan, 2016) with participating dentists to investigate the stress dentists face in treating these anxious patients and then explore their own coping strategies. The study findings could inform the development of evidence-based guidelines and strategies for managing patient anxiety, providing a framework to support dentists. It could also highlight potential areas of improvement in dentist training programmes, thereby strengthening the profession’s ability to handle patient anxiety. Furthermore, it could shed light on practical and beneficial self-care and coping strategies for dentists, potentially leading to a healthier work environment and an enhanced quality of life for dental professionals (Newton et al., 2006). In this presentation I will underscore the reciprocal nature of dental anxiety, revealing it as a problem with a profound two-way impact.

Exploring Island Resilience Through the Lived Experiences of Pacific Islands People Adapting to a Global Disruption: A Comparative Case Study in the Cook Islands and the Kingdom of Tonga

Roxane de Waegh — Fri, 29 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0000

This research explored the lived experiences and perceptions of Pacific Islands’ people responding and adapting to the significant global disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The primary aim of this study was to develop a deeper understanding of the social dimensions of resilience from the perspectives of Pacific Islands’ people. While there has been growing interest in these explorations of resilience, no studies to date have explored how Pacific Islands’ communities respond and adapt to a global disruption through the lens of subjective well-being and human agency. This research addressed this using a comparative case study approach to explore the adaptive responses of people in the Cook Islands and the Kingdom of Tonga. This research used an interpretive research paradigm underpinned by a constructivist grounded theory methodology and, due to the COVID-19 travel restrictions, undertook semi-structured interviews with 25 participants in the Cook Islands and 24 participants in Tonga through the use of online video-conferencing technologies (primarily Zoom) facilitated by the development of local research partnerships. The findings indicate that the resilience of Pacific Islands people depends on their capacity to collectively act and forge networks that are simultaneously local and global, enabling the use of traditional and foreign knowledge systems in ways that support the local human capacity that enhances the self-reliance of their island societies amidst a volatile, globalised world. These insights challenge the reductionist, ahistorical, and disempowering framings of small island nations as inherently vulnerable and externally dependent by demonstrating how Pacific Islands people used various forms of situated agency and social capital to increase their bargaining power and support the social-ecological wellbeing of their communities according to their needs, interests, and priorities.

Finding Balance with Vestibular Stimulation

Ruth McLaren — Fri, 29 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Weakening of the vestibular system through disease or aging leads to imbalance, restricted mobility, and falls (Hain et al., 2018). Vestibular weakness affects one-third of people over the age of 40, and 85% of those over 80 years (Agrawal et al., 2009). The delicate cells of the vestibular system do not regenerate and thus it becomes an incurable chronic condition. A promising treatment is noisy galvanic vestibular stimulation (nGVS), a non-invasive electrical stimulation, delivered to the vestibular system, aiming to restore absent vestibular information and improve balance (McLaren et al., 2022). This presentation reports the results of a scoping review investigating the stimulation parameters that can be manipulated to improve the efficacy of nGVS. A comprehensive systematic search of five databases up to December 2022 identified studies applying nGVS to people with the aim of improving their postural control. Two independent reviewers screened and identified eligible studies and extracted parameter data. Thirty-one studies met the eligibility criteria. The review identified that a broad array of settings have been employed across studies. The nGVS parameters of waveform, amplitude, frequency band, duration of stimulation, method of amplitude optimization, size and composition of electrodes and the electrode skin interface are all likely to influence the efficacy of nGVS. However, the ability to draw robust conclusions about the selection of optimal nGVS parameters is hindered by a lack of studies that directly compare parameter settings. I propose a guideline for the accurate reporting of nGVS parameters. This will help establish standardized stimulation protocols bringing us one step closer to becoming a readily available clinical treatment.

Early Detecting of Infectious Disease Outbreaks: AI Potentials for Public Health Systems

Hamidreza Rasouli Panah — Mon, 02 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000

The world is increasingly connected through technology, bringing people closer despite vast distances. However, this has led to urbanization, population growth, and a complex global economy. Climate change is also a consequence of our consumerist lifestyle. These changes have also increased the risk of global outbreaks and pandemics (Haileamlak, 2022). Fortunately, technological advancements offer tools such as digital surveillance, data analytics, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to help manage such crises. AI models excel at analysing large amounts of data quickly, revealing complex trends and patterns beyond human capability (Aleixo et al., 2022; Sylvestre et al., 2022). The objective of this presentation is to introduce a comprehensive framework integrating AI with the public health system to harness its strong analytical capabilities and support the early detection of infectious diseases. The proposed framework involves data collection from various sources, cloud-based or centralized repository data storing and pre-processing, AI model development, and data analysis, resulting in an effective early warning system to inform public health authorities promptly. Integrating AI into the public health system enhances response efforts and swift tackling of challenges for better health outcomes. However, effectively harnessing AI's potential and integrating it into existing systems presents significant challenges, requiring the retention of technical expertise and a comprehensive understanding of AI functionalities among healthcare professionals. Addressing these obstacles is vital for enhancing public health resilience and effectively responding to future outbreaks, as demonstrated during the recent use of AI in the COVID-19 response.

Evaluating Alternative Metaheuristic Algorithms for Procedural Content Generation in Game Design

Sana Alyaseri — Mon, 02 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Procedural Content Generation (PCG) has emerged as a powerful approach for automating game content creation, offering significant benefits in terms of cost reduction and time efficiency compared to traditional game design and development processes (Zhang, Zhang, & Huang, 2022). While Genetic Algorithms (GAs) have been widely used in PCG, alternative metaheuristic algorithms such as Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) and Artificial Bee Colony (ABC) have demonstrated their effectiveness in delivering high-quality solutions and efficient optimization capabilities across different problem domains (Amato, 2017). However, their application in PCG remains limited. I aim to evaluate the performance of PSO and ABC in map layout generation, challenging the conventional use of GAs. By comparing three metaheuristic algorithms (GA, ABC, and PSO) I seek to assess the effectiveness of these approaches in generating game levels and identify any obvious differences in their performance characteristics. Comprehensive experiments are conducted, applying GA, ABC, and PSO to a map layout generation. Metrics like convergence speed and content quality are used to evaluate the generated game content. My findings reveal that both ABC and PSO demonstrate advantages over traditional GA implementations when generating game levels, indicating their potential for enhancing PCG. In this presentation, I will share the results of comparing three metaheuristic algorithms (GA, PSO, and ABC) in map layout generation for game levels, emphasizing the potential benefits of leveraging diverse algorithmic approaches to create more captivating and immersive game worlds. Also, I will conclude with a call for further research in this area to expose new possibilities in content generation. By considering varied metaheuristic approaches, game developers can improve content generation techniques and create more captivating and interactive player experiences.

Exploring Best Practices of the I4.0 Technology Application in the Design Phase of CE Implementation: A Dynamic Capabilities Approach

Taichi Arioka — Mon, 02 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Over the past decade, the manufacturing industry has been propelled by the Fourth Industrial Revolution (I4.0). This new paradigm has driven companies to convert their factories into intelligent ones by seamlessly integrating digital and physical spaces. To achieve this transformation, various I4.0 technologies, such as the Internet of Things (IoT), Big Data Analytics (BDA), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Additive Manufacturing (AM), and Cloud Computing (CC), have been employed. Simultaneously, global interest in sustainability has surged, leading to the advancement of the Circular Economy (CE) as a means to achieve carbon neutrality and resource optimisation at the corporate level. Previous studies have acknowledged the crucial role of I4.0 technologies in realising CE but predominantly focused on some of its specific strategic areas. Notably, extensive attention has been given to "reducing" resource consumption and "recycling" resources, while the area of "rethinking" encompassing product and service design has been understudied despite its profound impacts on the management of resources and processes throughout the subsequent operations. To address this research gap, this study explores how manufacturing companies from New Zealand (NZ) and Japan leverage I4.0 technologies to enhance their dynamic capability in the design phase of CE practices. Drawing on the perspective that product and service design represents a dynamic capability, a qualitative case study approach is designed. By conducting cross-country comparisons between NZ and Japan, this research identifies best practices in leveraging I4.0 technologies during the design phase of CE implementation. The best practices are expected to include supplier involvement in the design phase through IoT, data-driven design through BDA, and precise design specifications through AM. By focusing on the critical aspect, this study will contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the application of I4.0 technologies in CE implementation. The findings will also offer valuable insights for companies seeking to effectively embrace CE.

Intrinsic Dynamics of Brain Functional Connectivity in Relation to Women’s Menstrual Cyclic Phases and its Impact on Their Stress, Life Satisfaction, and Social Distress

Ishani Gupta — Mon, 02 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Research has reported that the fluctuations of sex hormones like estrogen and progesterone lead to neurological changes in the different brain regions across the menstrual cycle and its phases: menses, follicular, and luteal. Although some psychological changes have also been reported for women across their menstrual cycle, not enough studies have approached this topic from a neuropsychological perspective. For this reason, I am investigating brain connectivity fluctuations across a 32-day menstruation cycle and its impact on women’s life satisfaction (LS), perceived stress (PS), and emotional support (ES). For this study, I am using the data (n=406) that has been collected by the Human Connectome Project. I am using an experimental research methodology looking at correlations (connectivity) between brain regions and associated variables of menstrual cycle phases (menses, follicular, and luteal) across a 32-day menstrual cycle, and what this tells us about the participants’ LS, PS, and ES total scores. In neuroscience, artificial intelligence (AI) techniques are applied to understand complex brain functions, brain and behaviour relationships, and shows potential to diagnose neurological disorders and interventions. AI, and elastic net regression, which is a type of statistical technique for neuroimaging data, will be used to analyse the brain activity relationships that I am investigating. In my presentation, I aim to discuss whether functional connectivity in brain regions is linked to women’s LS, PS, and ES, and the implications of this for menstrual health. This pilot study, by using a big data set of relatively healthy participants to further our understanding of this topic, will help to open doors for future research with similar investigating aims for more impactful menstrual related health conditions like Premenstrual Syndrome and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder.

Creating Change for Rural Allied Health via a DHSc Pathway

Jane George — Mon, 02 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000

The recruitment and retention of health professionals in rural and remote locations is a world-wide challenge. Investment to improve the pipeline for medicine and nursing, as well as to attract overseas qualified personnel, has been significant in Aotearoa New Zealand. Those professions, collectively known as Allied Health, Scientific & Technical (AHPs), of which there are over 40 separate professions, have not had the same attention or investment, leaving rural communities without access to many of the assessments, treatments and diagnostics that enable people to grow up well, live well and age well. The objective of this research was to discover what AHPs identify as the attractive aspects of living and working rurally. The purpose of exploring AHP perspectives was so that their insights and experiences could underpin practical advice and guidance for rural and remote health systems to improve their recruitment and retention experiences and support AHPs to flourish in these settings. This research drew on Interpretive Descriptive methodology. Data was collected in semi-structured interviews using an Appreciative Inquiry lens, and analysed using Braun and Clarke’s Reflexive Thematic Analysis (Braun & Clarke, 2022). Eighteen AHPs from seven professional groups, who lived and/or worked rurally, were interviewed across Aotearoa using video conferencing. Three key themes were constructed including: ‘Sense of Connection & Belonging’, ‘Safe & Supported Practice’ and ‘Creating Roles People Want to Come For’. These were woven with an integrative theme: ‘Fit’. The findings contain rich suggestions of how AHPs can be attracted to and retained in rural and remote communities. The research also highlights several key areas, specific to line managers, recruiters, employing organisations, tertiary providers, professional associations and registering bodies, where action can be taken to improve the experiences of AHPs in rural areas.

Beyond Needles and Syringes: A Review of Innovations in Local Anaesthesia Administration in Dentistry

Kyung Hyuk Min — Mon, 02 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Efficient pain and discomfort management in oral health is crucial, as they can act as barriers to effective dental care delivery (Al-Omari & Al-Omiri, 2009). Oral health practitioners who poorly manage pain and discomfort can potentially initiate fear and a negative attitude towards dental treatment. Local anaesthesia is vital in pain and discomfort control during dental procedures. Traditionally, it is administered using a needle and syringe, a method that causes pain upon injection (Yesilyurt et al., 2008). In response, innovative technologies have been introduced to reduce pain and discomfort during local anaesthesia administration. Numerous techniques have been examined to minimise injection pain, including slowing the injection rate, pre-warming the solution, and using narrow or sharp needles. However, despite these advancements, achieving a completely painless injection remains a significant challenge (Yesilyurt et al., 2008). The increasing recognition of this challenge has prompted research into alternative methods and supplementary aids, including devices that make administering dental local anaesthesia less painful. While previous studies have reported the effectiveness of specific technologies, such as computer-controlled local anaesthesia devices, compared to conventional needles and syringes, investigations of other emerging devices and technologies designed to reduce discomfort during dental anaesthesia administration are lacking. Therefore, a scoping review will be performed, adhering to the guidelines of the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) (Aromataris & Munn, 2020). This scoping review will systematically map the existing body of knowledge related to various local anaesthesia techniques and their associated devices developed to minimise pain during dental procedures. Moreover, as detailed in the existing literature, it will capture their defining characteristics and role in reducing pain during dental procedures. It will identify common themes and gaps in current knowledge to guide future research priorities.

Validation of the Future Self Continuity Questionnaire (FSCQ)

Lei Han — Mon, 02 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000

This oral presentation aims to illustrates a local validation of a recently developed measure of future-self-continuity, the Future Self Continuity Questionnaire (FSCQ). Self-continuity is the sense of psychological connection between the past self, the present self and the future self, in the dimension of time (Chandler, 1994). Rutchick et al. (2018) propose that when people feel a greater sense of continuity between their present and future selves, their decision making may be more influenced by thoughts of their future self. The study will recruit at least 200 participants to fill out a series of questionnaires related to future self-continuity, including the Future Self-Continuity Scale (FSCS), Consideration of Future Consequences-14 Scale (CFC-14), Multidimensional Temporal Self-Continuity Scale (MTSCS), and Beck Hopelessness Scale (BHS). The higher degree people's future self-continuity (according to the FSCQ), the more likely they are to associate their future self with their past/present self (as measured by FSCS and MTSCS). This inclination also tends to result in a greater consideration for the future consequences of their actions (as measured by the CFC), and potentially corresponds with a lower degree of hopelessness (as measured by BHS). Analyses will include item analyses, exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses to examine the factorial structure of the questionnaire, alongside assessments of internal consistency and test-retest reliability.

What's Good in the (Neighbour)Hood? Examining the Wellbeing of Urban Regeneration using Administrative Data

Linda Kirkpatrick — Mon, 02 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000

New Zealand (NZ) faces substantial housing challenges with a housing crisis brought on by housing shortages, rising housing costs, poor quality stock and overcrowding issues. Kāinga Ora is the primary government agency responsible for social housing and urban development in New Zealand. It has made significant investments towards increasing the housing supply, with plans to increase housing supply by 40,000 homes in the next 15 years. Over 90% of Kainga developments are in NZ’s largest city, Auckland, with 90% of those dwellings being social housing. These investments aim to improve wellbeing, liveability, social connections, and place-based identity through the provision of affordable homes, shared community spaces and active transport options. Urban regeneration has the potential to alleviate our housing burden and thereby have positive long-term impacts on community wellbeing. The purpose of this research is to identify and quantify the wellbeing impacts of urban regeneration in NZ. Evaluations of major urban developments are often overlooked, resulting in uncertainty about the long-term effects of urban regeneration on the community. There is substantial scope for comprehensive empirical research that provides social return-on-investment information. To this end, this research empirically estimates the impact of urban regeneration on wellbeing. New Zealand has adopted a well-being approach that supports public policy advice. The use of “big data” allows researchers to derive data-driven evidence to support this advice. The wellbeing framework used in this research draws on the NZ Treasury’s Living Standards Framework (LSF). Wellbeing outcomes of urban regeneration are grouped across three domains: (1) human capital – education and labour market outcomes; (2) physical and mental health and (3) crime and safety. Wellbeing outcomes in this research are constructed from administrative data from the Integrated Data Infrastructure (IDI), administered by StatsNZ, which houses a wide range of administrative and survey data collected from government organisations.

The Interplay Between Supply Chain Resilience and Climate Change

Mackenzie Freeman — Mon, 02 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Supply chains – a web of organisations and actors from raw material to consumption – are no longer linear; they instead make up a network of interconnected and overlapping global suppliers. Simultaneously, climate change has become one of, if not the greatest challenge of the modern world, materialised by increasing temperatures and sea levels, and intensified extreme weather events. This era of increased turbulence needs new ways of thinking to build resilience strategies in the face of such disruptions. Supply chain resilience (SCR) strategies have typically been based on an equilibrium-seeking system whereby the goal is to bounce back to the pre-disruption state or bounce forward to a better state. This research borrows the Complex Adaptive Systems (CAS) perspective which acknowledges the environment as a continuously evolving system that responds to multiscale interactions and feedback between different actors. This CAS perspective of SCR seeks to maintain the core functionality by adapting, evolving, and transforming to the dynamic environment. This research aims to explore the interrelationship between SCR and climate change across multiple temporal and spatial scales through multiple case studies. In this presentation, I will display initial findings from the pilot study focusing on three cases of New Zealand multinationals. These findings are formed exclusively through secondary data collected from case study, company reports and documents, press releases and databases, which will later be used to complement interviews and focus groups with companies’ executives. I will demonstrate how increased collaboration and agility along the supply chain is needed in the face of increasing climate related disruptions. Given that supply chain interactions are a major contributor to climate change, this presentation also intends to explore ways in which supply chains can operate more sustainability as part of a continuously evolving process of resiliency.

Key Factors Affecting the Implementation of Integrated Project Delivery for Lean Construction

Saad Bin Asad — Mon, 02 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000

The global construction industry suffers from increased costs, time delays, and low productivity rates. A solution to these issues is the increased application of Lean Construction (LC) and Integrated Project Delivery (IPD). LC is a way to design the production system to minimise waste and maximise the possible value generation. IPD is the practical application of LC. IPD is an approach that integrates people, systems, business structures, and practices into a process that collaboratively utilises the skills and opinions of all project participants to enhance project results. IPD aims to minimise waste in construction projects, improving health and safety, cost, schedule, and quality, and addressing the trust issues in the construction industry by attempting to promote a positive collaboration based on mutual respect. Though numerous literature is available on IPD, an in-depth analysis of the barriers to IPD has never been conducted. This study addresses this research gap and aims to present the barriers to IPD in detail. A systematic literature review (SLR) was conducted using 4 databases: Scopus, Emerald, ScienceDirect and International Group for LC using keywords “integrated project delivery” and “challenges”. Additional searches using synonyms such as “barriers” and “obstacles” were conducted as well; the keywords yielding the highest number of results were selected and every paper was examined to identify either explicit or implicit mention of IPD barriers. The SLR identified 222 barriers to IPD globally. The barriers were grouped into themes and separated as primary codes. The themes include Legal and Contractual, Financial, Technological, Cultural/Organisational, Collaboration and Communication, and Governmental/Political. The barriers are displayed using VOSViewer to visualise the co-occurrence of factors. The implications of this research will aid researchers and industry practitioners in understanding existing barriers comprehensively and identifying the most frequent barriers to IPD for LC in the global context.

Supporting Oral Health Practitioners’ Role in Child Protection: Current Approaches and Effort

Heuiwon Han — Wed, 04 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Child protection is an essential aspect of hauora for tamariki and taitamariki, and the role of oral health practitioners in this realm is increasingly recognised. In a unique capacity, oral health practitioners stand at the forefront of identifying orofacial manifestations of maltreatment within the orofacial region, supporting patients and their whanau, and collaborating with an integrated team of diverse disciplines (Han et al., 2022). Regrettably, studies reveal diminished responsiveness among New Zealand's oral health practitioners in child protection matters (Tilvawala et al., 2014), with a noticeable lack of clear guides or strategies to assist them. A scoping review is proceeding to explore international approaches and efforts to support oral health practitioners’ role in child protection. This review employs a systematic approach to identifying and mapping the breadth and depth of evidence in the field, irrespective of the source. The JBI methodology for scoping reviews guides the process (Peters et al., 2020), utilising the PCC (Population – Concept – Context) framework to establish inclusion and exclusion criteria. Any approaches and efforts to address and enhance the responsiveness of oral health practitioners in child protection were included in the review. A three-step search strategy was implemented, the search was conducted across five databases, and further searching of the grey literature was conducted. Two independent reviewers screened a total of 787 sources, and 25 sources were included in the review. Every step was piloted and calibrated to ensure consistency. A piloted data extraction form is used to help synthesise data systematically. The key findings can inform future policy development, practice guidelines, and educational initiatives to enhance the responsiveness and role of oral health practitioners in child protection.

Birth of a Profession: A Narrative Inquiry into the Shaping of New Zealand Midwifery

Erin Hanlon — Wed, 04 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000

The intention of this presentation is to showcase the Narrative Inquiry methodology which has been used to explore the experiences of midwives who have worked in New Zealand since the 1990 when the contemporary maternity model was implemented. In-depth interviews took place across Aotearoa with 16 midwives and 5 consumers. Narrative Inquiry methodology has been utilised to perform interviews, transcribe and analyse data. Participants shared their narratives of working clinically, in education, and within governance of the midwifery profession, and shared their narratives around how the profession of midwifery has evolved throughout the years. Using a framework sourced from Connelly & Clandinin (2006), this study references the concepts of temporality (time), place (location) and sociality (social conditions within New Zealand) in the analysis. Within narrative inquiry, temporality utilises timepoints such as past, present and future to situate a story within the context of when events occurred with the vantage point of hindsight (Kim, 2015) to inform future events. These collated narratives capture historical perspectives of local midwifery over time, highlighting a shift in birthing culture which has led to changes in practice and how the profession has responded. Additionally, this korero will touch on how the ethical challenges were surmounted as the researcher proposed to directly contact participants and identify their names in the final write up.

Recovery After mTBI: What Does It Mean and How Do We Measure It?

Charlotte Bray — Tue, 10 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are proving to be a significant public health issue, with over 36,000 new cases each year in New Zealand. The majority (95%) of these cases are classified as mild (mTBI). Most patients recover within days to weeks after the injury. However, for some patients recovery is not achieved and they still experience symptoms months to years after their injury. One of the issues in determining why some individuals do not recover as quickly as others is that there is no comprehensive patient-reported measure of what it means to be recovered after mTBI. My research consists of three phases. In the first phase I interviewed 14 patients who had experienced at least one mTBI to determine what recovery means to them. Using thematic analysis, I identified three themes that were part of the recovery process: 1) an ability to function without limitations; 2) regaining a sense of self; and 3) symptom resolution. Most participants judged their recovery based on how they were feeling and felt there was a need to have a way of monitoring how they were doing over time. In the second phase I used the participants’ quotes and themes to create a questionnaire designed to measure recovery after mTBI. The initial set of 18 prototype items have been reviewed by five people with personal experience of mTBI and a panel of mTBI experts to refine the language used and ensure all major components of recovery are captured. In the third phase of my research, I will ask 200 people who have experienced a mTBI to complete the prototype questionnaire so we can establish its validity and reliability to determine its utility to be used as a tool in clinical practice to monitor people’s recovery. In this presentation I will summarise my results from the first and second studies and outline the plans for future research.

Whiria te Tamariki, Whiria te Tāngata, Whiria te Mātauranga: Māori Parents’ Experience of Playcentre

Talena Hansen — Tue, 10 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Playcentre is a parent-led Early Childhood Education (ECE) model in Aotearoa New Zealand wherein parents can build relationships with other whānau while being present to educate their children. Playcentre has a long-standing tradition of empowering parents and children to undertake education together. Māori parents’ experiences of Playcentre represent a unique perspective on the bicultural underpinnings of Playcentre and the national ECE curriculum, Te Whāriki. This research opens a conversation about different cultural perspectives within Playcentre. It is a timely conversation as ECE is increasingly becoming an outsourced job, where funding favours teacher-led services. Focussed through a kaupapa Māori lens, this research explores Māori parents’ experiences of Playcentre, their reasons for choosing Playcentre, and their understandings of the bicultural ECE curriculum Te Whāriki. Data was collected through six interviews, as well as an interview I conducted with myself using a narrative inquiry approach, and was analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. This presentation looks at a key theme of this research which showed that positive partnership between tangata whenua and tangata tiriti is paramount to Māori parents’ feelings of empowerment as Māori in Playcentre. The importance of whakapapa both to te ao Māori through genealogy and to Playcentre through familial connections is explored, as it is a key factor in Māori parents’ decisions to join Playcentre. I will also discuss the importance of Māori resilience, and how my participants were able to turn feelings of whakamā into whakamana within the Playcentre context. Playcentre is a setting where Māori parents who have been disenfranchised are finding a space to reclaim their identity as Māori and build resilience; however, that relies on positive partnership. To be able to thrive in Playcentre, Māori parents need to be better supported, understood, and celebrated in that environment.

Collaborative Learning: A Phenomenographic Study of STEM Students’ Individual Characteristics Impact on Project-Based Learning in a Semi-Professional Environment

Thar Htin Shar — Tue, 10 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Collaborative Learning (CL) in the context of Project-based Learning (PjBL) can be interpreted as a learning method that allows students to share their knowledge and collaborate amongst themselves while providing crucial elements of learning such as scaffolding, social interactions, and experience. These elements are vital to students not only for their lives but also for their careers as the demand from industry for strong and reliable professionals with good communication skills is growing every day (Abood, 2019). The research aims to investigate how STEM students operate and behave in a PjBL environment and how their individual characteristics may have an impact on the outcome of the project, on social interactions among students, and on their perspectives of CL based on their experience. The research will use multiple theories to cover different aspects of the research, the social interactions, the use of technology, and students’ experiences of CL in a PjBL environment. Phenomenography, a methodology, focuses on the individual participants’ experience and their conceptions of a certain phenomenon. The experience of an individual towards a phenomenon may be completely different from another individual as the experiences may vary (Ornek, 2008). Gathering and categorising different experiences towards a certain phenomenon may produce a new dimension and add new knowledge to the area of CL. STEM students are more familiar with the ideas of CL than other students. However, according to Kokkelenberg and Sinha (2010), more STEM students drop out their classes or switch to non-STEM classes compared to other disciplines. Conducting this research will contribute to the knowledge areas of STEM students’ perceptions of CL, the impact of individual characteristics on social interactions and its impact on the outcome of the projects, and the impact of technology on CL in a PjBL environment.

Tangohia Mai te Taura (Take This Rope)

Toiroa Williams — Tue, 10 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Emanating from my PhD thesis Tangohia mai te taura (Take This Rope), this presentation discusses a practice-led research project that asks: ‘How might approaches to Māori documentary making serve to elevate whānau narratives of experience and function as an artistic mode of redress?’ The project generates a photographic essay in discourse with whakatauākī (significant saying), composed waiata (song), oratory, and a documentary that collectively considers connections between our murdered ancestor Chief Mokomoko, whenua, and whānau. By framing ‘documentary’ as something inclusive of film but also embracing oratory, toi pūkare and photographic essay creation, the study considers ways in which a researcher dealing with vulnerable family narratives might work cooperatively with a rōpū of artistic collaborators within Mātauranga Māori (Māori customs and knowledge) and kaupapa Māori (Māori research approaches). Emanating from the Kaupapa Māori paradigm, the study employs a Pūrākau methodology (McNeill and Pouwhare 2018; Pouwhare, 2016; 2019), where a tree functions as a metaphor for connecting explicit and esoteric knowledge. In such research, mahi (practice) operates like osmosis, drawing sustenance from roots that reach down into the realm of Te Kura Huna (what is unseen, genealogical, esoteric or tacit), drawing knowledge up into Te Kura Tūrama (the light of what is explicit and seen). The significance of the study lies in its potential to rethink documentary inquiry as culturally located practice. In so doing, the project will contribute to the corpus of knowledge about the wrongful execution of Chief Mokomoko and the resulting impact of land confiscation on our whānau. It will also extend how processes of indigenous, photographic and filmic documentation might function as a form of raranga (weaving), where interwoven strands are employed to create a fabric of understanding that may increase feelings of value, identification and historical redress.

Boots on the Ground: Integration of Fieldwork in Coastal Governance Decision-Making Processes

Vanessa Werder — Tue, 10 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Our understanding of and engagement with landscape and site – as a physical, cultural, and spiritual location – have undergone radical changes in recent years. In an era of predicted increases in ecological and climatic challenges and the poly-crisis of the Anthropocene, it is inevitable to reframe how we think through and work with landscapes (Kahn & Burns, 2021). This paradigm shift requires novel frameworks, techniques, and tools for engaging with landscapes on a governance level. The coast of Aotearoa New Zealand exemplifies a particular landscape type, yet has eluded a holistic definition within coastal governance. Together with the Western bifurcation of land versus sea, this omission has caused a lack of communication across marine and terrestrial planning authorities (Peart, 2007) and systemic issues in our (built) environment. We must adopt more site-specific and site-sensitive methods to ground our thinking and practices on the multi-layered constructs of landscapes. Fieldwork counters the technical, apparent omniscient processes of outdated paradigms of controlling ‘nature’ and reveals serendipitous findings rooted within a specific site. Therefore, engaging human researchers deeply within the field and the multi-scalar and diverse ontological reality of the more-than-human and non-vital. This methodological approach critiques the prevalent positivistic framing of current landscape planning practices by adopting an interpretive perspective (Davoudi, 2012). In my research, I look at a coastal site in Tāmaki Makaurau, and explore methods of fieldwork to derive theory from practical activity. This approach enhances the learnings from canonical texts and counters the hardening of divides between theory and practice in landscape architecture and related fields of study (Kahn & Burns, 2021). By exploring site-specific methods, I am uncovering the synthetic qualities of fieldwork practices and address their benefits for integration into decision-making processes for coastal governance.

Sino-Foreign Co-Production in the Post-Pandemic Era: Effects of Policies on Facilitating Film Co-Production

Xinmu Wang — Tue, 10 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000

At this symposium, I will present my research findings which explore the implications of film co-production policies for practitioners engaged in Sino-foreign co-production projects. The research is guided by the theoretical framework of Richard Peterson's production of culture perspective (2004) and John Thornton Caldwell's production culture (2008). Specifically, my presentation will concentrate on film policies and relevant industry documents that have direct relevance to film practitioners in the Australasian region. The dynamics of government relationships are likely to exert an influence on policy-making processes. New Zealand was the first Oceanic country to sign the Memorandum of Agreement with China on the Maritime Silk Road in early 2017. Since then, it has brought opportunities and challenges for New Zealand film industry practitioners. Six official co-production projects with China have been approved since 2019 (New Zealand Film Commission, 2023). For New Zealand film industry practitioners keen to collaborate with their Chinese counterparts in the post-pandemic era, the Belt and Road Initiative presents an opportunity to seize the advantages of the current times. Therefore, filmmakers in both countries should understand the impact of these policies on the Chinese film industry and Sino-foreign co-productions. This qualitative research collected primary data from semi-structured interviews with film practitioners from New Zealand, Australia, and China, and secondary data from documents, government policies, and reports, as well as publically available online industry interviews. A thematic analysis is conducted to examine the data and answering and exploring one of PhD research questions: what would industry policies and documents mean for film practitioners working in co-productions. My research finding shows, through acquiring comprehensive knowledge, film industry practitioners can make informed choices and select collaboration methods that align with the needs of their projects, thus avoiding unnecessary complications or challenges.

Digital Entanglement: Thinking With and About Digital Artifacts

Cristian Rodriguez — Thu, 12 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Object-oriented cognition suggests that human thinking and perception are largely based on our interactions with objects in the world, and that our ability to recognise objects and understand their properties is fundamental to how we make sense of the world. Similarly, Enactivism emphasises the role of bodily interactions and experiences in shaping our cognitive processes, from imagining or remembering to scientific models that help advance our understanding of the world. However, the ubiquitous presence of digital technologies in our daily life implies that the nature and properties of artifacts as a means of directing cognition are impacted by a redefinition of the material properties of those artifacts. Digital Ontophany (Vial, 2018, 2019) argues that technologies generate cyclical changes in the way we perceive things (ontophanic shifts). These shifts affect our phenomenological experience of the world and have the power to change our idea of what is possible. Through a mix of micro-phenomenology and micro-ethnography, this research collects first-person accounts of the experience of learning with digital devices in a secondary school in Aotearoa New Zealand, as a way to shine light onto the black-boxed assemblage of learners and devices. The main aims of this presentation are to introduce a comprehensive literature review that supports this research and to discuss the initial findings, which indicate the emergence of a new dynamic of digital artifactuality that materialises new conditions of possibility and a redefinition of embodied dexterity.

Trauma to Tyranny: Autobiographical Narrative as Empathetic Design

Elena Panaita — Thu, 12 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000

This paper considers a new form of graphic novel that combines the potentials of print and Virtual Reality [VR] storytelling. The novel ‘Upgraded Gods’, now in its final year of development, uses an autobiographical narrative to consider the nature and impact of malignant and collective narcissism in contemporary Russian society. The thesis asks, ‘How might one employ physical and virtual modes of storytelling to enhance empathetic experience in a narrative that considers the nature and impact of malignant narcissism?’ Goldner-Vukov & Moore (2010) identify malignant narcissism as a severe personality disorder that has “devastating consequences for the family and society” (p. 392), while traumatic childhood experiences are considered foundational to the development of malignant narcissism. Covington (2018) suggests that leaders can only enact a narcissistic abuse of power when they receive the support from a traumatised society that searches for “a charismatic leader who will promise to restore power and status to the group” (p. 255). Employing an autoethnographic methodology activated by heuristic inquiry, the study develops an immersive narrative that follows a protagonist through her childhood in the USSR, through the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991, into her exile and subsequent analysis of contemporary Russian politics and society. The significance of the research lies in its employment of creative practice to contribute embodied experience to wider theoretical discourses that consider the dynamics of power abuse through social and political aggression. Specifically, the study also examines the manner in which traumatic experiences may affect individuals' wellbeing, and shape social institutions and economics, contributing to the rise of far-right, nationalist, and fundamentalist movements. In the realm of graphic novel design, such analyses may be identified in a emerging trajectory of autobiographical literary works such as "Persepolis" by Marjane Satrapi, "Gast" by Carol Swain, and “Commute” by Erin Williams.

Untitled Grief: An Application of Heuristic Inquiry

Elizabeth Hoyle — Thu, 12 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000

In this presentation I investigate the methods and tools enmeshed in the creation of the short hybrid animated documentary Untitled Grief (Hoyle, 2023). Untitled Grief is one film of a suite of films which are being produced for a practice-led doctoral study (Smith & Dean, 2009). The films seek to document and visualise the human phenomena of loss in order to answer the question: How might a documentary filmmaker heighten resonance in narratives of grief through the use of animated images and sound? The project is underpinned by heuristic inquiry (Moustakas, 1990). Heuristic inquiry bolsters my examination of loss through tapping into autobiographical narratives as a way to uncover meaning while sustaining the focused search to expand the investigation. Potential is released to reveal universal significance of the phenomenon being explored. This type of inquiry is flexible, open and immersive. Tacit knowledge (Polanyi, 1967) is extracted and utilised. The researcher is guided by phases beginning with a focused initial encounter with the topic or question. Heuristic inquiry suggests a system of phases which guides the researcher throughout the research path. As an adaptation to this methodology and being led by practice, a series of principles of engagement have emerged; embracing uncertainty as a tool for creativity; utilising serendipity as a structured occurrence, emboldening the researcher’s poetic self; returning to indwelling with creative projects; aroha (love, respect, empathy) at the core of research practice.

Exploring Social Connectedness and its Impact on University Adjustment and Well-being: A Mixed-Methods Study in New Zealand

Emma Liu — Thu, 12 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Social connectedness is defined as having strong social relationships or networks. A high degree of social connectedness has been found to promote adjustment and psychosocial well-being of university students. Social connections enrich students' social lives, help them make new friends, and alleviate homesickness. However, first-year students often report difficulty making social connections, leading to psychological problems and high dropout rates. Students who fail to develop social networks face greater challenges integrating into the university environment (Jorgenson et al., 2018). A shift to online teaching during COVID-19, and its continued use, has impacted the opportunities students have to integrate socially, with implications for their adjustment and well-being (Elmer et al., 2020). This research utilizes a mixed-methods approach. Study 1 employs qualitative interviews (n=20) to: (1) explore how domestic and international students establish social connections in the post-COVID era; and (2) identify adjustment challenges students face during their first year of university. Study 2, using a sample of 300 NZ university students, will examine the validity of the Student Adaptation to College Questionnaire (Baker & Siryk, 1989), and its suitability for use in Study 3. Study 3 will employ a quantitative longitudinal design with survey data (n=400) collected at two time-points. It aims to investigate the influence of first-year university students' levels of social connectedness on adjustment to university and psychosocial wellbeing. This research will contribute to a greater understanding of the factors that impact the successful transition to a university environment. It may also enable tertiary institutions to develop strategies to enhance students' academic experience and safeguard their wellbeing.

Predicting Rainfall-Induced Landslides in Muriwai, Auckland: A Comprehensive Multi-Model Approach for Enhanced Risk Management

Yousef Adeeb Chamachaei — Thu, 12 Oct 2023 19:54:19 +0000

Landslide studies hold significant importance in understanding and mitigating the risks associated with these geohazards. Particularly in regions like New Zealand, where diverse topography and climatic conditions contribute to frequent landslide occurrences, such studies are crucial. This research focuses on Muriwai, Auckland, a region that has experienced substantial landslide activity triggered by rainfall. The study adopts a multi-model approach, integrating both empirical and process-based models to predict rainfall-induced landslides. This approach leverages the strengths of individual models, including logistic regression, random forest, support vector machines, artificial neural networks, and decision trees, thereby enhancing the robustness and accuracy of predictions. A comprehensive dataset, comprising historical landslide records, climatic data, and terrain and geological data, is used to train and validate these models. The data is spatially aligned within a unified Geographic Information System (GIS) database, ensuring consistency and accuracy in the analysis. The multi-model ensemble provides a probabilistic prediction of landslide occurrence, which is visualized as a landslide susceptibility map. This map serves as a valuable tool for understanding the spatial distribution of landslide risks in Muriwai. The performance of each model and the ensemble is evaluated using several metrics, ensuring the reliability of the predictions. The results are interpreted to understand the influence of different factors, particularly climatic parameters, on landslide occurrences. This study's findings contribute to effective landslide risk management and mitigation strategies in Muriwai, Auckland, and provide valuable insights for similar studies in other regions.

Applying Atua Māori Scientific and Technological Innovation in the Design and Construction of a Pātaka Mātauranga Story-house

Zena Elliott — Thu, 12 Oct 2023 19:54:39 +0000

The research seeks to understand the impacts of colonisation on wahine whakairo through mana wahine theory. “Orooro te toki na Hine-tua-hoanga” It is through the lens of a toki (adze), originally shaped and sharpened by atua wahine Hine-Tua-Haonga that we may reclaim, reimagine, and reshape our past, present, and future. The research inquiry adopts a pūrākau methodology that functions simultaneously with practice-led research and kaupapa Māori theory. The key research findings are carved and painted components that are part of a wider collective and hononga (connect) to construct a pātaka mātauranga story-house for communities to gather and wānanga. The design and construction of a contemporary carved story-house, that encompasses and connects mātauranga Māori past, present, and future, aims to provide an archive of indigenous knowledge that is relevant to our time and space. Contemporary lived experiences and information is embodied on the inside and outside of the structure through the application of customary and contemporary methods and materials. Because the creative process involves using repurposed or rescued ancient native timber, I realised there was a need to innovate a rongoā to support the wood for construction and to withstand natural deterioration. During the research, a rongoā embodied with ethical Māori values was created to function as a satin finish for carved taonga and to help restore repurposed or damaged rākau within Māori architecture and whakairo. This unique rongoā is a sustainable and natural remedy that can be applied within the marae restoration and creative industries. Contemporary whakairo practitioners could seal, heal, and restore the rākau used for building construction or carving. The ingredients within this rongoā are derived from the atua, making it a supreme sealant, and protectant that reduces decay. The rongoā rākau will be presented through a creative exhibition that showcases a small component of the pātaka mātauranga story-house.

Accounting for Equity Financial Instruments Under IFRS 9: Determinants and Usefulness

Zeting Zang — Thu, 12 Oct 2023 19:54:56 +0000

This oral presentation aims to discuss the results of my study regarding the determinants and usefulness of accounting for equity financial instruments after the effect of the new accounting standard: International Financial Reporting Standard (IFRS) 9 Financial Instruments. The prohibition of recycling fair value gains or losses (FVGL) on equity instruments from other comprehensive income (OCI) to profit or loss when derecognition and the default fair value through profit or loss (FVTPL) presentation with alternative fair value through OCI (FVTOCI) option are some major changes for equity financial instruments accounting in IFRS 9. Motivated by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB)’s continuing monitoring implementation evidence on equity instruments classification and measurement, I examine firms’ accounting choices in presenting FVGL on EFA either at FVTOCI or at FVTPL under the framework of Positive Accounting Theory (PAT) and whether the presentation location matters to investors in ASX 500 firms. I find that firms’ EFA holdings are not changed after IFRS 9 in terms of whether to hold an EFA or EFA holding amount. FVGL on EFA presentation location choice is not used opportunistically in firms to smooth earnings or increase profitability. However, information asymmetry for FVTOCI presentation choice increased after IFRS 9 adoption in non-financial firms. EFA amount in financial firms provides incremental value relevance to the market regardless of IFRS 9 adoption, and the EFA presentation location matters to investors. The results of this study provide evidence to standard setters to understand the determinants and usefulness of EFA under IFRS 9, which has implications for further revisions. I contribute to the debate around whether to recycle FVGL from OCI or not. Moreover, I extend accounting choice and value relevance literature in financial instruments accounting that is of value to a broad constituency, such as managers, investors, and various financial statement users.

Auckland University of Technology, Child and Youth Health Research Centre Research Roadshow Presentation (2023)

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Introduction: Every year Auckland University of Technology (AUT) Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences host a research roadshow to provide staff and postgraduate research students an opportunity to showcase their work, network, exchange/share ideas and collaborate to generate new opportunities for research.

Methods: Members of the AUT Child and Youth Health Research Centre presented a combined power-point presentation where each project was allocated one slide.

Findings: Ten research projects were presented that spanned across 4 schools. The types of research included 7 empirical designs 1. Using participatory video to explore the perceptions and understandings of health and wellbeing among refugee background youth in Aotearoa New Zealand, 2. Creating a community engaged research agenda for Tamariki with Asthma, 3. The role of serious games and youth as co-designers in future healthy and sustainable city world-building, 4. Decolonising and democratising Malawian public health: A photovoice collaboration with families exploring daily meals associated with a rise in diabetes, 5. Strengthening Pacific voices through Talanoa participatory action research, 6. The creating space project, 7. Children and young people’s participation in activities that inform the planning, implementation, and evaluation of service delivery in Children’s Hospitals in New Zealand; two integrative reviews 8. Children and young people’s self-reported experiences of asthma self-management nursing strategies across various settings; 9. Factors that Influenced the experiences of paediatric nurses during the COVID-19 Pandemic and one meta-analysis 10. Risk and protective factors of adolescent suicidality.

Conclusion: All together there were 30 exhibition presentations including 26 individual sessions over the day (VIMEO recording).