title: Reply to the comment by Stephenson “Discussion of de Lange, W.P. and Moon, V.G. 2005. Estimating long-term cliff recession rates from shore platform widths. Engineering Geology 80, 292–301”

authors: Moon, Vicki G.

abstract: In his discussion, Stephenson raises several points, first and foremost being that the method we outline for determining long-term cliff recession rates from shore platform widths is not universally applicable. We agree fully with this and described the assumptions required for applying the method in our paper, viz.:
1. The seaward margin of the shore platform has remained relatively static;
2. Shore platform development only occurs when the mean sea level corresponds roughly (± 1 m) to the mean elevation of the shore platform; and
3. The shore platform is not polycyclic.
If these assumptions are breached then we believe the method outlined cannot give a good result. Thus, much of our paper was devoted to justifying these assumptions for the sites studied, and we note that the use of the method at other locations would require careful consideration of the validity of the assumptions for each specific environment.
Stephenson also questions the application of static and equilibrium models and the use of the terms soft and hard rock. These will be considered in turn.

text: Reply to the comment by Stephenson “Discussion of de Lange, W.P. and Moon, V.G. 2005. Estimating long-term cliff recession rates from shore platform widths. Engineering Geology 80, 292–301” In his discussion, Stephenson raises several points, first and foremost being that the method we outline for determining long-term cliff recession rates from shore platform widths is not universally applicable. We agree fully with this and described the assumptions required for applying the method in our paper, viz.:
1. The seaward margin of the shore platform has remained relatively static;
2. Shore platform development only occurs when the mean sea level corresponds roughly (± 1 m) to the mean elevation of the shore platform; and
3. The shore platform is not polycyclic.
If these assumptions are breached then we believe the method outlined cannot give a good result. Thus, much of our paper was devoted to justifying these assumptions for the sites studied, and we note that the use of the method at other locations would require careful consideration of the validity of the assumptions for each specific environment.
Stephenson also questions the application of static and equilibrium models and the use of the terms soft and hard rock. These will be considered in turn.

year: 2008

title: The viability of commercially relevant New Zealand seaweeds as a novel source of protein: The impact of processing on the extraction efficiency of protein

authors: Battershill, Zoe

subjects: Seaweed

abstract: The world’s population is increasing and with it so too is the demand for food production specifically protein which is essential for human nutrition. However, relying solely on animal-based proteins is increasingly problematic given growing global environmental impacts. Thus, novel protein sources are increasingly investigated, particularly plant-based alternatives due to their smaller carbon footprint. Seaweeds hold potential as a novel protein source due to their relatively high protein content and quality as evidenced by essential amino acid content. However, seaweeds’ cell structure, with unique polysaccharides, complicate protein availability in terms of human digestion, necessitating procedures to disrupt the cell if seaweeds are to be a reliable protein source.
This research thesis sought to investigate which of six New Zealand seaweeds (five different species) had the highest raw potential as a protein source, and if this protein’s extraction could be improved by food grade standard, industry relevant processing techniques. 
Seaweeds assessed included: Pyropia plicata wild harvested from the Tauranga, Bay of Plenty (North Island) and Kaikōura, Canterbury (South Island); Macrocystis pyrifera and Undaria pinnatifida provided by commercial supplier (NZ Kelp); and Ulva sp. B and Ulva ralfsii harvested from land-based cultivation at Coastal Marine Field Station (CMFS), University of Waikato, Tauranga. All six were analysed for proximate composition (C, H, N, S, and ash), content of protein (as amino acids), total lipids, carbohydrates, fibre, minerals, and heavy metals. Antioxidant capacity was evaluated as new research shows this can influence protein bioavailability. From these results Ulva sp. B and Ulva ralfsii were chosen as the potential protein sources with their protein content 151 mg/ g and 138 mg/ g, respectively.

The effects of two alternative processing methods, which were applicable to industry for human nutrition, were then applied to these two species to assess their impact on the extractability of protein. The two chosen processing treatments were enzyme hydrolysis using a commercial mixture of enzymes (Viscozyme®) to target the chemical degradation of cell wall polysaccharides, and homogenisation to target the mechanical degradation of the cell wall structure. These were used alone and combined in a factorial experimental design and found that the combination of both processing methods yielded the greatest extraction efficiency 55.2% and 63.7% extraction efficiency for U. sp. B and U. ralfsii, respectively.
While this study was limited in scope, it demonstrated the potential for cultivated seaweeds in New Zealand to be successfully processed to enhance their available protein and serve as a novel protein source for human nutrition.

text: The viability of commercially relevant New Zealand seaweeds as a novel source of protein: The impact of processing on the extraction efficiency of protein The world’s population is increasing and with it so too is the demand for food production specifically protein which is essential for human nutrition. However, relying solely on animal-based proteins is increasingly problematic given growing global environmental impacts. Thus, novel protein sources are increasingly investigated, particularly plant-based alternatives due to their smaller carbon footprint. Seaweeds hold potential as a novel protein source due to their relatively high protein content and quality as evidenced by essential amino acid content. However, seaweeds’ cell structure, with unique polysaccharides, complicate protein availability in terms of human digestion, necessitating procedures to disrupt the cell if seaweeds are to be a reliable protein source.
This research thesis sought to investigate which of six New Zealand seaweeds (five different species) had the highest raw potential as a protein source, and if this protein’s extraction could be improved by food grade standard, industry relevant processing techniques. 
Seaweeds assessed included: Pyropia plicata wild harvested from the Tauranga, Bay of Plenty (North Island) and Kaikōura, Canterbury (South Island); Macrocystis pyrifera and Undaria pinnatifida provided by commercial supplier (NZ Kelp); and Ulva sp. B and Ulva ralfsii harvested from land-based cultivation at Coastal Marine Field Station (CMFS), University of Waikato, Tauranga. All six were analysed for proximate composition (C, H, N, S, and ash), content of protein (as amino acids), total lipids, carbohydrates, fibre, minerals, and heavy metals. Antioxidant capacity was evaluated as new research shows this can influence protein bioavailability. From these results Ulva sp. B and Ulva ralfsii were chosen as the potential protein sources with their protein content 151 mg/ g and 138 mg/ g, respectively.

The effects of two alternative processing methods, which were applicable to industry for human nutrition, were then applied to these two species to assess their impact on the extractability of protein. The two chosen processing treatments were enzyme hydrolysis using a commercial mixture of enzymes (Viscozyme®) to target the chemical degradation of cell wall polysaccharides, and homogenisation to target the mechanical degradation of the cell wall structure. These were used alone and combined in a factorial experimental design and found that the combination of both processing methods yielded the greatest extraction efficiency 55.2% and 63.7% extraction efficiency for U. sp. B and U. ralfsii, respectively.
While this study was limited in scope, it demonstrated the potential for cultivated seaweeds in New Zealand to be successfully processed to enhance their available protein and serve as a novel protein source for human nutrition.

year: 2022

title: Are they really at risk? Students' stories of success.

authors: Gray, Sheridan

subjects: Student engagement

abstract: In 2011, as the year level dean for year 13, I was surprised and pleased to see a group of students complete their fifth year of secondary schooling, contrary to teacher expectations, and in spite of earlier signs of disengagement and struggle.  Such students are frequently labelled “at risk” in our secondary schools. Truancy, lack of achievement, conduct issues, learning difficulties and health problems are seen as indicators of an at risk student by teachers. 

Statistically in Aotearoa, Māori and Pasifika students and students from low socio-economic families tend to be overrepresented among disengaged or early leavers from secondary schools, and so being from these cultures, and being from a low socio-economic group becomes a “risk” factor.   This can lead to assumptions among teachers about the students’ families, how parents value education, and even about the capacity of these groups to be able to succeed in education.  A range of strategies and programmes have been implemented in an attempt to address these issues, including Te Kotahitanga, Ka Hikitia and the Pasifika Education Plan, Resource Teachers Learning and Behaviour, Restorative Practice, and more recently Positive Behaviour for Learning

While there has been a shift in such approaches from deficit of students to emphasising more positive attitudes in teachers, the perspectives of the students themselves are missing from the discussion about these issues.  This study asks students what factors helped them to stay, and to achieve at least a level one NCEA qualification

The findings show that retention and engagement of “at risk” students requires careful attention to the quality of relationships across the school community: students, teachers and parents. They discredit some commonly held assumptions that “at risk” students and their parents do not value education and that teachers cannot support these students sufficiently. These quality relationships are respectful, responsive and tenacious showing a high level of respect for and interest in the students that goes beyond a teaching and learning relationship.  It also suggests that the discourse of “risk” invites a disrespectful response to retention and engagement of students.

text: Are they really at risk? Students' stories of success. In 2011, as the year level dean for year 13, I was surprised and pleased to see a group of students complete their fifth year of secondary schooling, contrary to teacher expectations, and in spite of earlier signs of disengagement and struggle.  Such students are frequently labelled “at risk” in our secondary schools. Truancy, lack of achievement, conduct issues, learning difficulties and health problems are seen as indicators of an at risk student by teachers. 

Statistically in Aotearoa, Māori and Pasifika students and students from low socio-economic families tend to be overrepresented among disengaged or early leavers from secondary schools, and so being from these cultures, and being from a low socio-economic group becomes a “risk” factor.   This can lead to assumptions among teachers about the students’ families, how parents value education, and even about the capacity of these groups to be able to succeed in education.  A range of strategies and programmes have been implemented in an attempt to address these issues, including Te Kotahitanga, Ka Hikitia and the Pasifika Education Plan, Resource Teachers Learning and Behaviour, Restorative Practice, and more recently Positive Behaviour for Learning

While there has been a shift in such approaches from deficit of students to emphasising more positive attitudes in teachers, the perspectives of the students themselves are missing from the discussion about these issues.  This study asks students what factors helped them to stay, and to achieve at least a level one NCEA qualification

The findings show that retention and engagement of “at risk” students requires careful attention to the quality of relationships across the school community: students, teachers and parents. They discredit some commonly held assumptions that “at risk” students and their parents do not value education and that teachers cannot support these students sufficiently. These quality relationships are respectful, responsive and tenacious showing a high level of respect for and interest in the students that goes beyond a teaching and learning relationship.  It also suggests that the discourse of “risk” invites a disrespectful response to retention and engagement of students.

year: 2012