Health Papers

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://researchcommons.waikato.ac.nz/handle/10289/11371

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Why the PISC TC-3 Standards must begin with defining kava
(2026) Aporosa, S. 'Apo'
Context: I am a kava health researcher of iTaukei (indigenous Fijian) ancestry, based at the University of Waikato, and leading a team of 40+ part-time kava health researchers across three countries inclusive of traditional knowledge experts, molecular biologists, toxicologists, ethnopharmacologists, clinical psychologists and more. For eight of the past 10 years, our work has been funded by the Aotearoa New Zealand Government through the Health Research Council Pacific. I (personally) have no financial interests in the kava industry. This is reasoned on an increasing level of unethical practice associated with ‘kava capitalism’ and the threat this poses to another kava ban. A lot our research addresses kava-related health mis- and dis-information, with the aim of safeguarding kava as a Pacific cultural keystone species and protecting smallholder Pacific kava farmer livelihoods and export earnings. Attendees have been invited by the TC3 Committee lead to speak on kava initiatives in our area. For our team, this centres on research: supporting kava as a cultural icon, addressing misinformation and safety concerns through clinical trials, computational analysis and other approaches, all to aid kava’s ongoing availability for cultural purposes and as an income source for Pacific farmers. This also involves challenging cultural appropriation, greed-driven capitalists and ‘culture industry’a activities that threaten kava’s integrity and consumer safety. I will speak to kava initiatives from this research perspective.
Patient-reported outcome measure comparison of two cemented primary total hip arthroplasty implant combinations for osteoarthritis: A regional New Zealand study
(Springer, 2026-04-02) Pearce, Amy; Joshi, Chaitanya; Chan, Georgina; Lamberton, Tony; MacLean, Simon; Vane, Andrew; Hébert-Losier, Kim
Purpose Compare patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) of two cemented implants in primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) for osteoarthritis in a New Zealand regional joint registry. Identify patient predictors of poorer PROMs. Methods We analysed observational data from primary THA surgeries for osteoarthritis performed between 1 January 2003 and 30 June 2023, with at least one recorded PROM (n = 1365) from a regional joint registry. We compared preoperative, 1-year, 5-year, and 10-year PROMs in the cemented, highly crosslinked polyethylene Exeter® X3 Rimfit cup (Rimfit) and its conventional polyethylene predecessor, the Exeter® Contemporary Flanged cup (ECF) with the same cemented Exeter® V40 stem. We investigated six patient factors and their influence on physical function, and mental and physical health PROMs. Results No significant difference in physical function PROMs were noted between implants at any timepoint. Both implant combinations exhibited excellent (> 41) mean postoperative Oxford hip scores based on published thresholds (Rimfit: mean 41.30 ± SD 8.46; ECF: mean 41.64 ± SD 8.67). Mental health was significantly better preoperatively and at 1-year and 5-year with the Rimfit based on Veterans RAND 12-Item Health Survey. Public funding was a significant and clinically meaningful predictor of poorer preoperative outcomes in all PROMs and in both cohorts, followed by comorbidity status. The strongest significant predictor of poorer postoperative PROMs was poorer preoperative PROMs, followed by Māori ethnicity. Conclusion Both implant combinations demonstrated similar PROMs up to 10 years, but the Rimfit exhibited superior mental health. Public funding, comorbidity status, and Māori ethnicity were predictors of statistically significant and clinically meaningful poorer preoperative and postoperative PROMs.
Structure and function of the Achilles tendon and plantarflexors after non-surgical management of Achilles tendon rupture: A cross-sectional study
(Elsevier, 2026-02) Briggs-Price, Samuel; Yates, Tom; Mangwani, Jitendra; Bhatia, Maneesh; Jones, Annette; Mielcarek, Klaudia; Solaini, Amy; Leung, Shing Yan; Gravare Silbernagel, Karin; Hébert-Losier, Kim; de Vos, Robert-Jan; Millar, Neal L.; Vicenzino, Bill; O'Neill, Seth
Background Achilles tendon rupture (ATR) impacts the structure and function of the tendon and triceps surae. We aimed to describe recovery at different time points after injury using ultrasound imaging, strength testing and patient reported outcomes. Methods Cross-sectional study design, collecting data from 15 different non-surgically managed participants at six independent rehabilitation time points (week 0, 8, 10, 16, 26, 52 post ATR). Outcomes included ultrasound tissue characterisation (UTC), isometric plantarflexor strength, Achilles tendon rupture score (ATRS), Euroqol 5-dimension, hospital anxiety and depression scale and Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia. UTC echo type percentage is reported as aligned fibrillar structure (AFS) and disorganised fibrillar structure (DFS). Findings Participants mean (SD) age was 48 years (15.8), 91 % male, body mass index 29kg/m2 (4.3) and 54 % was white British. Primary mechanism of injury was sport (71 %). Ruptured tendon cross-sectional area (CSA) was 303.55 mm² (90.43) at 10 weeks and 218.18 mm² (61.82) at 52 weeks post ATR. For the ruptured tendon, later assessment time points were associated with decreased AFS but had no association with DFS. Isometric plantarflexor strength on the ruptured limb at 52 weeks was 61.3 kg (20.8) or 0.7x bodyweight (BW). Non-ruptured plantarflexor strength was 93.3 kg (29.5) or 1.1x BW. Leg symmetry index at 52 weeks was 67 %. ATRS at 52 weeks was 75.1 (16.5). Conclusion Substantial tendon remodelling may occur during the initial 52 weeks post ATR, CSA was 28 % lower from 10 weeks to 52 weeks. At 52 weeks there was persistence of fibrillar disorganisation, isometric plantarflexor weakness and reduced function.
An evidence-based educational video does not influence running shoe selection: A randomised controlled trial
(Taylor & Francis, 2026) Fife, Andrew; Esculier, Jean-François; Ramsey, Codi; Hébert-Losier, Kim
Runners may select shoes based on marketing recommendations rather than scientific evidence. It remains unknown if education on the latest research can influence subjective appreciation of footwear and selection. Our aims were to identify how an evidence-based educational video influences how runners select shoes, and perceive shoe comfort, satisfaction, and performance over three months compared with a control video. Fifty-six uninjured runners looking for a new pair of running shoes completed this randomised controlled trial. Prior to purchasing new shoes for road running in speciality stores, runners were assigned to watch an educational video on (1) the latest research about the association between running shoes and injuries (intervention) or (2) the evolution of running demographics (control). Runners completed surveys about their newly purchased shoes in reference to their previous shoes at three time points: before first use, one-month post-purchase, and three-months post-purchase. Perceived shoe comfort, satisfaction, and performance were assessed using 100 mm visual analogue scales. Comfort and satisfaction were not significantly different between groups at any time points. The average perceived performance of new shoes (75.6 mm) was significantly greater than previous shoes (67.6 mm) before first use, but ratings returned to previous-shoe levels one month later in both groups. The intervention group reported the educational video influencing their purchase (55.4 mm) more so than the control group (21.8 mm). However, participants from both groups chose the same brand and model as previously worn over half of the time. The evidence-based educational video did not appear to influence overall perceived shoe comfort, satisfaction, or performance or shoe selection habits. Runners in both groups often chose similar shoes to the ones they previously used.
Economy benefits of running in advanced footwear technology shoes remain with plantarflexion fatigue
(Springer, 2026) Bidois, Benjamin; Cumming, Christiaan; Giandolini, Marlene; Nguyen, Anh Phong; Hébert-Losier, Kim
Purpose: We investigated the effects of plantarflexion fatigue on running economy (RE) response to advanced footwear technology (AFT) in a group of heterogenous runners. Secondary aims were to examine the relationships between plantarflexion power and RE responses to AFT, and effects of plantarflexion fatigue and footwear on biomechanical measures. Methods: Sixty-four runners completed two laboratory sessions. Session one involved a peak oxygen uptake test. Session two included two RE tests in both a Control and AFT shoe before plantarflexion fatigue, and two rounds of plantarflexion fatigue before reassessment of RE in one of the two shoes (counterbalanced). Plantarflexion power was assessed at baseline, and before and after each fatigue protocol. Video-based running biomechanics were recorded during all RE tests. Results: RE measures were improved in AFT (35.3 ± 5.0 mL/kg/min, 12.5 ± 1.8 W/kg, 4.18 ± 0.40 J/kg/m) versus Control (36.8 ± 5.2 mL/kg/min, 13.1 ± 1.9 W/kg, 4.37 ± 0.40 J/kg/m), and better pre-fatigue (35.7 ± 5.1 mL/kg/min, 12.7 ± 1.8 W/kg, 4.25 ± 0.40 J/kg/m) than post-fatigue (36.4 ± 5.2 mL/kg/min, 12.8 ± 1.9 W/kg, 4.30 ± 0.42 J/kg/m). Plantarflexion power decreased 6.5% post-fatigue. Despite these significant effects of AFT and plantarflexion fatigue on RE, no interactions were observed (P ≥ 0.476). Baseline plantarflexion power and changes in power did not correlate with AFT responses (P ≥ 0.566). Statistically significant differences indicated AFT reduced ground contact time and foot strike angle and increased cycle time and duty factor, with plantarflexion fatigue increasing cycle time and duty factor; however, estimates of differences were generally within the limits of instrumental resolution. Conclusion: Plantarflexion fatigue and plantarflexion power were not associated with RE responses to AFT, opposing the idea that plantarflexion strength explains variability in AFT response. Trial registration: Australian New Zealand Trials Registry, ACTRN12624000753550, 18th June 2024.
How does it feel to run in minimalist and advanced footwear technology shoes: A qualitative study involving male recreational runners
(PLOS, 2025-12-01) Hébert-Losier, Kim; Knighton, Hannah; Finlayson, Steven; Peterson, Benjamin; Mousavi, Seyed Hamed
We examined the perceptions and experiences of male recreational runners when using minimalist racing flats (FLAT, Saucony Endorphin Racer 2) and advanced footwear technology (AFT, Nike Vaporfly 4%) shoes, compared with their habitual shoes (OWN). Eighteen runners completed three 1.5 km outdoor trials, running in OWN first, followed by FLAT and AFT in a randomised counter-balanced order. Semi-structured interviews conducted before and after each trial provided qualitative data, analysed using a six-phase reflexive thematic approach. Five interconnected themes emerged: ‘novelty and familiarity’, ‘feel’, ‘performance’, ‘biomechanics’, and ‘injury’. Runners’ perceptions were shaped by iterative feedback loops combining experiential, educated, and instinctual assessments. OWN shoes were generally ranked highest for comfort and lowest for perceived injury risk due to familiarity and balanced design. Novel shoes elicited mixed reactions. FLAT shoes were valued for their lightweight and natural feel, but raised concerns about discomfort and potential injury from minimal cushioning and support. AFT shoes were appreciated for their bounciness and performance potential, but raised concerns about instability and excessive cushioning. Findings indicate that footwear comfort is multifaceted, context-dependent, and not always aligned with performance or injury reduction. Runners often prioritised performance over comfort in competitive scenarios, highlighting the inherent trade-offs in footwear selection and the importance of personalised approaches. Concerns about injury and biomechanics changes underscore the need for gradual transitions to novel footwear. By adopting a real-world approach, this study advances understanding of footwear perceptions, emphasises the dynamic and subjective nature of runners’ experiences, and offers practical implications for runners, clinicians, and shoe manufacturers.
10-year survival comparison of two cemented implants in primary total hip arthroplasty for osteoarthritis: A New Zealand regional study
(Springer, 2025) Pearce, Amy; Joshi, Chaitanya; Chan, Georgina; Lamberton, Tony; MacLean, Simon; Vane, Andrew; Hébert-Losier, Kim
Introduction Compare 10-year survival of the cemented highly crosslinked polyethylene Exeter® Rimfit™ (Rimfit) Cup and its predecessor, the ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene Exeter® Contemporary Flanged Cup™ (ECF), both with an Exeter® V40™ stem, in primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) for osteoarthritis in the Bay of Plenty region of NZ. Method We extracted national registry data for THA surgeries in the region between 1 January 2003 and 30 June 2023 and report the 10-year survival and reasons for revision of the two fully cemented implants (n = 495). We compared standard Kaplan-Meier estimates using the log-rank test. Cox proportional hazard models investigated the potential influence of six patient variables on the survival of each implant: sex, age, body mass index (BMI), ethnicity, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) rating, and funding source (public/private). Results No statistically significant difference in 10-year survival rate between the implants (p = 0.334) (ECF 95.6% [93.4, 97.9], Rimfit 97.0% [95.9, 98.2]) or statistically significant difference in revision reasons between the implants (p = 0.09) was noted. Cox regression revealed no statistically significant influence of any of the six patient variables on the 10-year survival of the ECF (p = 0.584) or Rimfit (p = 0.611). Conclusion Both implants exceeded 95% survival at 10-years, which is favourable compared to the corresponding 94.8% national survivorship of cemented implants in NZ. There is no statistically significant difference in the 10-year survival rate or reasons for revision of the two cemented implants compared in this region. The Rimfit appears a suitable alternative to the ECF, from a survival and revision perspective.
15-year patient-reported outcomes of a cemented flanged cup and stem combination in primary total hip arthroplasty: A New Zealand study
(SAGE, 2026) Pearce, Amy; Joshi, Chaitanya; Chan, Georgina; Lamberton, Tony; MacLean, Simon; Vane, Andrew; Hébert-Losier, Kim
Methods: We investigated 15-year patient-reported outcomes (PROMs) and their predictors in primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) for osteoarthritis using a cemented flanged cup and stem from a regional joint registry in New Zealand. Regional data were collected for all primary THAs with this cemented combination from 1 January 2003 to 30 June 2023 who had recorded PROMs on at least 1 occasion (n = 263). PROMs included Oxford Hip Score, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index and Veterans Rand-12, evaluated against patient age, ethnicity, sex, body mass index (BMI), funding pathway, and American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) rating. Results: Significant improvements across preoperative PROMs were noted 1-year post-surgery, with a mean change above 23 in the Oxford Hip Score maintained at 5, 10, and 15 years (p ⩽ 0.001). Conclusions: Regression analysis indicated that being female, public funding, and higher BMI were associated with worse preoperative PROMs. Poorer preoperative scores, older age and ASA 3 rating correlated with poorer postoperative outcomes.
Exploring the reliability of isometric benchmark tests and their relationship to performance characteristics in elite track sprint cyclists
(Taylor & Francis, 2025) Thompson, Roné; Paton, Carl D.; Bini, Rodrigo Rico; Hébert-Losier, Kim
Benchmark tests in competitive cycling identify talent, individualise training, and monitor performance. However, varying protocols often produce conflicting results, reducing comparability. Isometric tests are prevalent, but reliability and performance correlation are underexplored. Determine the test–retest reliability of benchmark test metrics in elite track sprint cyclists and their relationship to a performance outcome. Nineteen elite track sprint cyclists (12 males, 7 females) completed seven benchmark tests across two days: modified sit-and-reach; on-bike rolling seated maximum 6-s sprints; 3-s bilateral on-bike isometrics at 90° crank angle; 3-s prone bench pull isometrics; 3-s lumbar extension isometrics; 3-s seated off-bike isometrics; and modified plank endurance. For the performance outcome, a third session within 7 days assessed peak power using an inertial load cycle ergometer. All tests showed excellent measurement consistency (ICC3,1 ≥ 0.92), with low systematic bias (p ≥ 0.063), though confidence interval varied due to modest sample size. High test–retest reliability was supported by low typical errors (CV 2.0–5.5%; 9.6% for endurance). Nine benchmark metrics, including bilateral isometric measures, showed moderate to excellent correlation with peak power output (r = 0.52–0.94, p ≤ 0.023); six remained statistically significant after Bonferroni correction (p ≤ 0.005). All benchmark metrics were reliable, with six strongly and statistically significantly associated with performance.
Running shoe recommendations based on gait analysis improve perceptions of comfort, performance and injury risk: A single-blind randomised crossover trial
(Wiley, 2025) Fife, Andrew; Esculier, Jean-François; Ramsey, Codi; Hébert-Losier, Kim; Mendias, Christopher
Objectives: We examined how shoe recommendation based on gait analysis influences subjective perceptions of comfort, performance and injury reduction in runners while monitoring spatiotemporal and kinematic parameters. Design: Single-blind crossover randomised controlled trial with repeated measures. Method: Twenty-one women runners completed a clinical gait analysis and four 5-min treadmill trials at a self-selected comfortable speed sequentially in their own shoes (OS), the first experimental shoes (randomised), their OS, and the second experimental shoes (randomised). The two experimental shoes were identical except for their colour (randomised) and were presented to runners as either a ‘basic’ shoe or, deceptively, a ‘gait-matched’ shoe selected for them based on the clinical gait analysis conducted. Results: Running Comfort Assessment Tool (RUN-CAT) scores and 100 mm visual analogue scale ratings of subjective comfort, performance and injury reduction differed significantly between own and experimental shoes (p < 0.001). Post-hoc comparisons revealed that runners’ OS were the most comfortable (83.3 ± 3.8 mm) followed by gait-matched (66.1 ± 21.5 mm) and then basic (49.0 ± 24.1 mm) shoes. RUN-CAT, performance and injury reduction ratings were similar between own and gait-matched shoes, but gait-matched shoes had better mean difference (95% confidence intervals), RUN-CAT (15.6 mm [5.7, 25.5]), performance (17.1 mm [5.6, 28.6]) and injury reduction (30.1 mm [8.9, 51.2]) scores than the basic shoes. Discrete spatiotemporal, foot strike angle and resultant tibial acceleration parameters were not significantly different between shoes (p ≥ 0.157). Most runners overall preferred their OS (71.4%), followed by gait-matched (23.8%) and basic (4.8%) shoes. Conclusions: Shoe recommendation and description can significantly affect subjective shoe comfort and overall preferences without significantly altering spatiotemporal and kinematic parameters. Runners should be cautious while choosing shoes based on recommendations and descriptors derived from gait analysis or based solely on perceived comfort as runners’ subjective perceptions can be artificially manipulated.
Tackling Ableism in Sport and Active Recreation to Ensure Participation Parity for Disabled Young People in Aotearoa New Zealand
(Human Kinetics, 2026) Carroll, Penelope; Madden, Linda; Witten, Karen; Opit, Simon; Jeanes, Ruth; Townsend, Robert; Nazari Orakani, Solmaz
Significant barriers limit disabled young people’s opportunities in sport and active recreation. This is both a health and human rights issue: physical activity is vital for well-being, and equitable access to sport and active recreation is mandated by the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (2006). Using Q methodology, a participatory mixed-methods approach that uncovers shared viewpoints through statistical analysis of participant-ranked statements, we examined ableist attitudes in Aotearoa New Zealand that privilege nondisabled access while marginalizing disabled peers, despite decades of inclusionary rhetoric. Forty participants from sport, physical education, and recreation sectors ranked 40 attitudinal statements on disability inclusion. Factor analysis of these rankings revealed three distinct ableist “viewpoints.” We present these viewpoints, propose a “variants of ableism” framework, and discuss implications for parity in participation in sport and physical activity.
Safeguarding kava: Pacific sovereignty, safety, and trade
(2026) Aporosa, S. 'Apo'
Over the past 3 millennia, Kava has maintained its position as a culturally, socially, and politically potent foundational plant species and Indigenous practice of various Oceanian societies. However, in the nearly 100 years past it has become one of Oceania’s most economically viable resources that has played a significant role in shaking the very foundations of the culture and peoples that it helped to build up. This panel brings together culturally rooted kava experts from across Oceania to share in their expertise and experience on the current state of contemporary kava practices as well as related ongoing issues for one of Oceania’s most sacred keystone species. Their experience and expertise range from Indigenous chiefly and everyday ceremonial practices and spaces to the burgeoning international kava industry.
The effect of an off-feet conditioning protocol on performance and training load response to intermittent sprint training compared to an equivalent running based protocol
(International Universities Strength and Conditioning Association, 2025) Rogers, Timothy; Connell, Ryan; Free, Jarrod; Gill, Nicholas D.; Hébert-Losier, Kim; Beaven, Christopher Martyn
Training for maximal intensity actions can lead to muscle damage, muscle soreness, and neuromuscular fatigue if not carefully managed. Due to this potential impact, coaches sometimes look to off-feet conditioning (OFC) as an alternative. A training intervention compared an OFC protocol using cycle ergometer sprints with an equivalent running protocol. Seventeen (17) participants volunteered and completed the study. Following baseline testing participants were divided into a cycle (BIKE) or shuttle (RUN) group. Training intervention was 10-12 6 s sprint efforts with 80-seconds recovery. Post testing showed significant time effect for absolute (p=0.045), and substantial change for Mean Power (p=0.0606) for BIKE. There was a significant time effect in the shuttle test (p=0.008) for RUN. Substantial, non-significant improvements in performance were found in 10 m (p=0.261) 20 m time (p=0.307) and Peak Power (p=0.160) for BIKE. RPE was significantly higher in BIKE (p<0.001). Next-day soreness was significantly higher for RUN (p<0.001). Neither intervention negatively affected any measure. The cycle protocol may benefit sprint running performance. This form of training may mitigate the impact of high volumes of run-based training by decreasing eccentric loading thus reducing soreness. OFC may be useful for maintaining performance without adding mechanical stress on the lower body.
Non-disabled privilege in sports and active recreation: Challenging neoliberal ableist attitudes through human rights informed anti-ableism
(Sage, 2025) Nazari Orakani, Solmaz; Carroll, Penelope; Townsend, Robert C.; Witten, Karen
Despite inclusionary policies in New Zealand, the existing socio-cultural and political systems continue to reinforce non-disabled privilege in the sports and physical activity environment. Bolstered by neoliberal ableist attitudes, concepts and practices, this non-disabled privilege excludes individuals whose bodily capabilities do not fit hypothetical able-bodied norms and standards. This paper explores neoliberal ableist attitudes and practices that contribute to non-disabled privilege and create barriers to disabled young people participating in sports and active recreation. In addition, the paper examines anti-ableist attitudes, informed by human rights, that challenge this privilege. We used Q methodology with 40 participants – physical education teachers, sports coaches, administrators and managers of sports and recreation clubs, classes and facilities – to uncover dominant viewpoints on sport and disability across the sports and active recreation sectors. The paper draws on data from interviews conducted with the participants. Our findings revealed neoliberal ableist attitudes and practices in relation to competition and winning, able-bodied privilege and resource allocation that favour the able-bodied in the sports, physical activity and recreation environment. We also found human rights-informed anti-ableist attitudes that challenge the able-bodied privilege and strive for the inclusion and participation of disabled young people. By illuminating how non-disabled privilege in sports and active recreation can undermine inclusionary policies, our research underscores the urgent need for change through rights-based strategies, policies and practices that can be leveraged to promote the inclusion of disabled youth in sports and physical activity, thereby advancing their human rights.
Beyond the boundaries of humour: Disabled cricketers’ experiences of sledging
(SAGE Publications, 2025) Brighton, James; Powis, Ben; Townsend, Robert C.
Normalised within the social fabric of cricket, sledging is a form of gamesship where players aim verbal jousts at one another in order to gain a competitive advantage. Both intimidatory and humorous, existing research into sledging has focused on non-disabled cricketers without considering the experiences of those that do not match this corporeal norm. Accordingly, in this paper we offer the first exploration of sledging as experienced by disabled cricketers and how it contributes to disablism and the social ordering of disabled sporting bodies. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 22 elite players (21 male, 1 female) with physical (12) and intellectual impairments (5) and d/Deafness (5) who compete in non-disabled, impairment-specific and pan-disability cricket. Framed by theories of humour and disability studies, an abductive analytical approach to analysis was undertaken revealing five themes – sledging as the norm, inclusive humour, gamesship, disablism and subversion. Findings show how sledging offers a unique lens to explore disabled peoples experiences of cricket. While facilitating inclusion and belonging, sledging is however often euphemistically used to mask discriminatory behaviours. In particular, d/Deaf and learning disability players were subjected to more disturbing forms of disablism than physical disability players. Safeguarding disabled cricketers and strategies for inclusion are discussed.
Triumphant tides: The rise of Pacific midwifery research in Aotearoa New Zealand
(New Zealand College of Midwives, 2025) Jackson, Talei
As we present the 61st issue of the College Journal, which is in its 36th year, we are excited to be actively showcasing greater diversity in the research shared. This commitment enables us to amplify minority voices and introduce vital new perspectives. Ultimately, this serves to strengthen the entire profession, helping us evolve and provide increasingly culturally safe care to the whānau and communities we serve. One of these key communities is Pacific peoples, and in this issue of the Journal, we are pleased to share research on Pasifika perspectives of mentoring in Aotearoa (Otukolo et al., 2025).
Ūloa: Rethinking mental health provision in Pacific Island communities
(Research Features, 2025) Vaka, Sione
Modern mental health services fail to effectively cater for migrant Pacific Island communities, which have different worldviews and ways of knowing. At the University of Waikato, Associate Professor Sione Vaka has developed the ūloa model of care, which draws inspiration from traditional research methods and ways of life. The ūloa model offers Pacific-centred mental health services with cultural appropriateness and equitable outcomes.
Socially responsible and fair AI in healthcare applications in New Zealand
(2025) Yogarajan, Vithya
Issues that need to be considered, include: - Professional liability. - Labour market implications: Skills and expertise required of healthcare providers will change. - Ethical considerations. - Privacy concerns. - Regulatory compliance. - Provider–patient relationship: Empathy skills of healthcare providers have been shown to positively influence patient outcomes. Why is it a good idea? - AI to the rescue. - Productivity. - Workload. - Performance.
Articulations of Ableism in Sport and Physical Activity
(SAGE Publications, 2025) Townsend, Robert C. ; Carroll, Penelope; Madden, Linda; Orakani, Solmaz Nazari; Kelly-Costello, Áine; Movold, Jaden; Witten, Karen
Disabled people continue to experience ableism in sport and physical activity in many forms. Operating as a form of privilege, ableism encompasses a complex and enduring network of beliefs, processes, and practices that place value on nondisabled embodiment and shape our collective understandings of the self, our bodies, and our relationships, and how we perceive, and are perceived by, others. However, the breadth of ableist tendencies, attitudes, and practices prevalent within sport and physical activity are not clearly articulated. This study draws on data generated from eight focus group interviews with 50 participants from across the sport and active recreation sector in Aotearoa New Zealand to paint a fuller picture of how able-bodied privilege operates. Working back-and-forth between theory and data, we expand empirically on the concept of ableism in sport and physical activity, exploring covert and overt articulations of ableism expressed by sports practitioners, while locating them within a broader framework of able-bodied privilege and power. In so doing, we provide a sensitizing framework to identify different forms of ableism present in sport: from neoliberal, institutional, and enlightened attitudes through to benevolent, apologetic, aversive, and abject responses to disability. In illustrating these contemporary manifestations of ableism, we hope to develop a shared language for both understanding and challenging ableism in sport.
Footstrike evaluation in male runners: A comparison of lateral and medial video views against traditional motion capture
(Elsevier, 2025-09) Mo, Shiwei; Yin Chu, Adrian Siu; Shao, Sikun; Chen, Yinjie; Hébert-Losier, Kim; Li, Li; Cheung, Roy T.H.
Footstrike evaluation is essential for understanding running biomechanics and is often performed in research and clinical settings using 2D video analysis. However, whether it is appropriate to analyse both right-left footstrike patterns from a single sagittal plane video is unclear. This study compared medial and lateral video views in assessing footstrike pattern and footstrike angle, using a motion capture system as the gold standard. We analyzed 4,800 footfalls from 20 healthy recreational runners during self-paced treadmill running, recruited through convenient sampling. Footstrike angle agreement was evaluated using Bland-Altman analysis, intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC), and root mean square error (RMSE). The mean difference in footstrike angle between the gold standard and lateral view was 0.40° (95% limits of agreement: 6.05° to −5.25°), while the medial view showed a mean difference of −1.31° (95% limits: 8.37° to −10.99°). ICC values indicated excellent agreement for both lateral (0.979) and medial (0.940) views to the gold standard. RMSE was lower for the lateral (2.91°) than medial (5.11°) view, suggesting greater precision. Footstrike pattern classification was assessed using Cohen's kappa, revealing substantial agreement for the lateral view (κ = 0.785, p < 0.001) and good agreement for the medial view (κ = 0.606, p < 0.001). These results indicate that while both views demonstrate strong agreement, the lateral view aligns more closely with the gold standard in continuous and categorical assessments. Our findings suggest lateral video analysis may be preferable for footstrike evaluation in applied and clinical settings.

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