Design and optimisation of the limaçon rotary compressor
- Lu, Kui
- Authors: Lu, Kui
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: The limaçon positive displacement machine is characterised by its internal geometry and unique mechanical motion; both based on a mathematical curve known as the limaçon of Pascal. The limaçon technology offers many advantages, such as compact size and double‐acting functionality, and its great potential for fluid processing applications has been proven by a number of patents and innovative designs in engines, expanders, and pumps. However, no commercial application of the limaçon technology in the field of positive displacement compressors has been reported in the literature. This could be attributed to the fact that the potential of the limaçon technology for gas compression has not been established as yet. The process of establishing potential is necessary before funds and resources are dedicated to investing in prototyping and testing. This process entails a considerable amount of modelling, coding and analysis as one must ensure the embodiment is geometrically capable of delivering suction and compression strokes, ports can be arranged to support the workings of these strokes, a number of measurable parameters can be identified as impacting compressor performance and it is possible to calculate a set of parameters which optimise this performance. To achieve this objective, a comprehensive mathematical model of a limaçon machine, implemented as a compressor,was first developed. The model, which is multi‐physical in nature, spans such domains as kinematics, fluid dynamics, characteristics of the port flow, internal leakage due to seal vibration, dynamics of the discharge valve, and thermodynamics. Subsequently, the simulation of the model has been performed to numerically study the operational characteristics of the limaçon compressor and to investigate the effect of various parameters on the compressor performance. It was found that the increase in the operating speed and pressure ratio would lead to negative effects on machine performance, especially on volumetric efficiency. Additionally, the results of simulations indicated that the level of fluid over‐compression is influenced by the characteristics of the discharge valve. To ensure the suitability of limaçon technology for use in positive displacement compressors, a study was undertaken to determine whether such an embodiment lent itself to optimisation efforts. For this purpose, the thorough mathematical model which has been developed to simulate compressor workings was then used for optimisation purposes whereby a Bayesian optimisation procedure was applied. The optimisation procedure was conducted in a two‐stage fashion where the first stage optimises the machine dimensions to meet volumetric requirements specified by the designer; and the second stage focuses on revealing the optimum combination of port geometries that improves machine performance. A numerical illustration was presented to prove the validity of the presented approach, and the results show that considerable improvements in the isentropic and volumetric efficiencies can be attained. Moreover, the optimised design was tested under different operating speeds and pressure ratios to investigate its robustness. It was found that the optimised design can exhibit relatively stable performance when the working conditions vary within a small bandwidth around that used in the optimisation procedure. The limaçon technology has three embodiments, namely the limaçon‐to‐limaçon (L2L), the limaçon‐to‐circular, and the circolimaçon. The circolimaçon embodiment features using circular arcs, rather than limaçon curves, to develop profiles for the rotor and housing. This embodiment simplifies the manufacturing process and reduces the production cost associated with producing a limaçon technology. A feasibility study of the circolimaçon embodiment was conducted by comparing its performance with that of the L2L type device. The machine dimensions and port geometries obtained from the optimisation procedure were used in the comparative study. A nonlinear three‐degree of freedom model was presented to describe the dynamic behaviour of the apex seal during the machine operation. Additionally, the leakage through the seal‐housing gap was formulated by considering the inertia and viscous effects of the flow. The results from the case study suggest that the circolimaçon embodiment exhibits comparable performance to the L2L‐type machine, despite having more significant seal vibrations. Moreover, it was also discovered that the circolimaçon compressor with a small capacity undergoes a lower level of seal dynamics, indicating better machine reliability.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Lu, Kui
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: The limaçon positive displacement machine is characterised by its internal geometry and unique mechanical motion; both based on a mathematical curve known as the limaçon of Pascal. The limaçon technology offers many advantages, such as compact size and double‐acting functionality, and its great potential for fluid processing applications has been proven by a number of patents and innovative designs in engines, expanders, and pumps. However, no commercial application of the limaçon technology in the field of positive displacement compressors has been reported in the literature. This could be attributed to the fact that the potential of the limaçon technology for gas compression has not been established as yet. The process of establishing potential is necessary before funds and resources are dedicated to investing in prototyping and testing. This process entails a considerable amount of modelling, coding and analysis as one must ensure the embodiment is geometrically capable of delivering suction and compression strokes, ports can be arranged to support the workings of these strokes, a number of measurable parameters can be identified as impacting compressor performance and it is possible to calculate a set of parameters which optimise this performance. To achieve this objective, a comprehensive mathematical model of a limaçon machine, implemented as a compressor,was first developed. The model, which is multi‐physical in nature, spans such domains as kinematics, fluid dynamics, characteristics of the port flow, internal leakage due to seal vibration, dynamics of the discharge valve, and thermodynamics. Subsequently, the simulation of the model has been performed to numerically study the operational characteristics of the limaçon compressor and to investigate the effect of various parameters on the compressor performance. It was found that the increase in the operating speed and pressure ratio would lead to negative effects on machine performance, especially on volumetric efficiency. Additionally, the results of simulations indicated that the level of fluid over‐compression is influenced by the characteristics of the discharge valve. To ensure the suitability of limaçon technology for use in positive displacement compressors, a study was undertaken to determine whether such an embodiment lent itself to optimisation efforts. For this purpose, the thorough mathematical model which has been developed to simulate compressor workings was then used for optimisation purposes whereby a Bayesian optimisation procedure was applied. The optimisation procedure was conducted in a two‐stage fashion where the first stage optimises the machine dimensions to meet volumetric requirements specified by the designer; and the second stage focuses on revealing the optimum combination of port geometries that improves machine performance. A numerical illustration was presented to prove the validity of the presented approach, and the results show that considerable improvements in the isentropic and volumetric efficiencies can be attained. Moreover, the optimised design was tested under different operating speeds and pressure ratios to investigate its robustness. It was found that the optimised design can exhibit relatively stable performance when the working conditions vary within a small bandwidth around that used in the optimisation procedure. The limaçon technology has three embodiments, namely the limaçon‐to‐limaçon (L2L), the limaçon‐to‐circular, and the circolimaçon. The circolimaçon embodiment features using circular arcs, rather than limaçon curves, to develop profiles for the rotor and housing. This embodiment simplifies the manufacturing process and reduces the production cost associated with producing a limaçon technology. A feasibility study of the circolimaçon embodiment was conducted by comparing its performance with that of the L2L type device. The machine dimensions and port geometries obtained from the optimisation procedure were used in the comparative study. A nonlinear three‐degree of freedom model was presented to describe the dynamic behaviour of the apex seal during the machine operation. Additionally, the leakage through the seal‐housing gap was formulated by considering the inertia and viscous effects of the flow. The results from the case study suggest that the circolimaçon embodiment exhibits comparable performance to the L2L‐type machine, despite having more significant seal vibrations. Moreover, it was also discovered that the circolimaçon compressor with a small capacity undergoes a lower level of seal dynamics, indicating better machine reliability.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
Detection and prevention of the dispersal of the seeds of Chilean needle grass (Nassella neesiana Trin. & Rupr. (Barkworth)) in hay bales
- Authors: Weller, Sandra
- Date: 2016
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Invasive and noxious weeds are well known as a pervasive problem, imposing significant economic burdens on all areas of agriculture, and thus their control and eradication are of central concern to the industry. Whilst there are multiple possible pathways of weed dispersal in this industry, of particular interest to this discussion is how the unintended dispersal of Chilean needle grass (Nassella neesiana) weed seeds, within emergency fodder, may be prevented. Periodic drought is a feature of the Australian climate, which, together with natural disasters of flood and bushfire, necessitates the urgent provision of emergency fodder for maintenance of livestock production. However, previous investigations into weed seed dispersal by this fodder type have revealed a significant risk for the dispersal of a number of noxious weeds well beyond their current range. Because preventive work, relating to detection and eradication of noxious species, is at an early stage of development, the development of faster, more reliable, and non-destructive sampling methods for seed species has become essential. In addition to prevention of weed seed dispersal in fodder, the use of appropriate methods of controlling troublesome pasture weeds in situ is of relevance for addressing established infestations. Whilst silage preservation is one such typical method that can reduce weed seed input into the soil seed bank, there is currently little data on the absolute effectiveness of this method for control of N. neesiana. To investigate whether rapid detection of seeds in bales is possible and how the numbers of seeds in a pasture are linked to the numbers of seeds that may be incorporated into hay bales made from an infested pasture, an investigation of a rapid, non-destructive technique to detect seeds in bales, together with an examination of a pasture to estimate seed density and dispersal prior to baling, were carried out. Additionally, since pastures infested with this weed are of no use for producing hay and little use for grazing, a third experiment was devised, which was an investigation of silaging for preventing inadvertent seed input into pasture soil seed banks. This thesis has shown that this approach of non-destructive core sampling of bales to detect the seeds of N. neesiana, and possibly others, which can be visually recognised, shows promise for those involved in weed control. Similarly, the simultaneous demonstration that silage fermentation is an efficient viable method for both eliminating viability of mature (germinable) seeds of this species while also reducing the probability of injury to livestock from these seeds, confirms that reducing the impact of this weed in agro-ecological systems and on livestock during emergency situations is possible.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Weller, Sandra
- Date: 2016
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Invasive and noxious weeds are well known as a pervasive problem, imposing significant economic burdens on all areas of agriculture, and thus their control and eradication are of central concern to the industry. Whilst there are multiple possible pathways of weed dispersal in this industry, of particular interest to this discussion is how the unintended dispersal of Chilean needle grass (Nassella neesiana) weed seeds, within emergency fodder, may be prevented. Periodic drought is a feature of the Australian climate, which, together with natural disasters of flood and bushfire, necessitates the urgent provision of emergency fodder for maintenance of livestock production. However, previous investigations into weed seed dispersal by this fodder type have revealed a significant risk for the dispersal of a number of noxious weeds well beyond their current range. Because preventive work, relating to detection and eradication of noxious species, is at an early stage of development, the development of faster, more reliable, and non-destructive sampling methods for seed species has become essential. In addition to prevention of weed seed dispersal in fodder, the use of appropriate methods of controlling troublesome pasture weeds in situ is of relevance for addressing established infestations. Whilst silage preservation is one such typical method that can reduce weed seed input into the soil seed bank, there is currently little data on the absolute effectiveness of this method for control of N. neesiana. To investigate whether rapid detection of seeds in bales is possible and how the numbers of seeds in a pasture are linked to the numbers of seeds that may be incorporated into hay bales made from an infested pasture, an investigation of a rapid, non-destructive technique to detect seeds in bales, together with an examination of a pasture to estimate seed density and dispersal prior to baling, were carried out. Additionally, since pastures infested with this weed are of no use for producing hay and little use for grazing, a third experiment was devised, which was an investigation of silaging for preventing inadvertent seed input into pasture soil seed banks. This thesis has shown that this approach of non-destructive core sampling of bales to detect the seeds of N. neesiana, and possibly others, which can be visually recognised, shows promise for those involved in weed control. Similarly, the simultaneous demonstration that silage fermentation is an efficient viable method for both eliminating viability of mature (germinable) seeds of this species while also reducing the probability of injury to livestock from these seeds, confirms that reducing the impact of this weed in agro-ecological systems and on livestock during emergency situations is possible.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
Developing chiropractic students clinical practice skills - elements of best practice : a qualitative exploratory descriptive study
- Authors: Haworth, Navine
- Date: 2021
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Background Although chiropractic has 125 years as an established profession, scrutiny of the literature proves that few studies have examined the clinical education of chiropractic students with a call for research from academics. This thesis is significant as it develops knowledge that can inform chiropractic bodies and help them improve an essential component of chiropractic education: clinical skill development. Research Purpose and Aims The purpose of this study was to identify elements of best practices in clinical education by critically examining, exploring and describing the aspects of an exemplar chiropractic clinical program that develops students’ clinical practice skills for transition into practice. This study explored the innovative clinical program of a reputable American chiropractic institution providing a scaffolded clinical program across varied clinical settings, patient populations and amongst other health disciplines. Research Design A six-phase exploratory descriptive qualitative design (EDQD) study was conducted to explore and describe the phenomenon being examined (Flick, 2014). This design enabled the collection of information about perceptions and lived experiences of three stakeholder cohorts: clinical faculty members, students and new graduates. Methods Purposive sampling (of students and clinical faculty members) and snowball sampling techniques (of new graduates) were used to derive the sample. Data were collected in three cycles across a two-year period using in-depth, semi-structured interviews. Interviews were conducted with 15 clinical faculty members and eight new graduates, and semi-structured focus groups were conducted with 20 students. All data were audio recorded, transcribed and thematically analysed using an inductive approach. Findings Chiropractic clinical education programs ought to be developed within a framework that incorporates adult learner principles; situated, social and experiential learning theories. Valued was a student-centred learning experience that includes authentic and diverse clinical placements, supervision and mentoring from multiple clinical educators which enhances students’ access to varied perspectives of clinical practices that contributes to developing clinical skills and professional identity. Business knowledge and entrepreneurial skills was an area of deficiency, which is problematic when the objective is to build graduates’ independence in clinical practice and professional prospects are predominantly private practice (NBCE, 2020). Embedding evidence-based practice within curricula and clinical training for educators and students are necessary to ensure this becomes a part of clinical practice. Conclusion This thesis posits best practice in chiropractic clinical education consists of the following: (a) using a scaffolded longitudinal clinical program, (b) varying clinical placements and case mix, (c) supervision and mentoring from multiple clinical educators, (d) educating the clinical educator, (e) curricula designed around industry standards and desired graduate attributes and capabilities, (f) an evidence-based practice approach in the curricula and clinical context, (g) aligning business skills, knowledge and practices with the professional context and (h) interprofessional learning and practice opportunities. Although this study has made a contribution to scholarly discourse, there remain many gaps in our knowledge where further studies are needed.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Haworth, Navine
- Date: 2021
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Background Although chiropractic has 125 years as an established profession, scrutiny of the literature proves that few studies have examined the clinical education of chiropractic students with a call for research from academics. This thesis is significant as it develops knowledge that can inform chiropractic bodies and help them improve an essential component of chiropractic education: clinical skill development. Research Purpose and Aims The purpose of this study was to identify elements of best practices in clinical education by critically examining, exploring and describing the aspects of an exemplar chiropractic clinical program that develops students’ clinical practice skills for transition into practice. This study explored the innovative clinical program of a reputable American chiropractic institution providing a scaffolded clinical program across varied clinical settings, patient populations and amongst other health disciplines. Research Design A six-phase exploratory descriptive qualitative design (EDQD) study was conducted to explore and describe the phenomenon being examined (Flick, 2014). This design enabled the collection of information about perceptions and lived experiences of three stakeholder cohorts: clinical faculty members, students and new graduates. Methods Purposive sampling (of students and clinical faculty members) and snowball sampling techniques (of new graduates) were used to derive the sample. Data were collected in three cycles across a two-year period using in-depth, semi-structured interviews. Interviews were conducted with 15 clinical faculty members and eight new graduates, and semi-structured focus groups were conducted with 20 students. All data were audio recorded, transcribed and thematically analysed using an inductive approach. Findings Chiropractic clinical education programs ought to be developed within a framework that incorporates adult learner principles; situated, social and experiential learning theories. Valued was a student-centred learning experience that includes authentic and diverse clinical placements, supervision and mentoring from multiple clinical educators which enhances students’ access to varied perspectives of clinical practices that contributes to developing clinical skills and professional identity. Business knowledge and entrepreneurial skills was an area of deficiency, which is problematic when the objective is to build graduates’ independence in clinical practice and professional prospects are predominantly private practice (NBCE, 2020). Embedding evidence-based practice within curricula and clinical training for educators and students are necessary to ensure this becomes a part of clinical practice. Conclusion This thesis posits best practice in chiropractic clinical education consists of the following: (a) using a scaffolded longitudinal clinical program, (b) varying clinical placements and case mix, (c) supervision and mentoring from multiple clinical educators, (d) educating the clinical educator, (e) curricula designed around industry standards and desired graduate attributes and capabilities, (f) an evidence-based practice approach in the curricula and clinical context, (g) aligning business skills, knowledge and practices with the professional context and (h) interprofessional learning and practice opportunities. Although this study has made a contribution to scholarly discourse, there remain many gaps in our knowledge where further studies are needed.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
Development and evaluation of a pilot program to reduce stigma of mental illness among rural adolescents
- Authors: Newnham, Krystal
- Date: 2011
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Two forms of stigma – social and self – represent barriers to receiving professional help for rural Australian adolescents with mental health issues. Characteristics of rural communities such as self-reliance, social proximity and social exclusion are thought to compound experiences of stigma, creating a fear of seeking professional help. The aim of this project was to design and evaluate a stigma reduction program for rural secondary school students. A two-stage quasi-experimental research design was developed. Study 1 involved working collaboratively with seven students from a rural secondary school to develop a population specific program. The curriculum development process was evaluated and the final form of the intervention documented. Study 2 involved delivering and evaluating the intervention within the same secondary school. The aim of Study 2 was to decrease adolescents‟ stigma of mental illness, as measured by social and self stigmatic attitudes, desired social distance, and help-seeking intentions. The treatment group comprised students from year 7, 8, 9, and 12, and the control comprised a delayed treatment group of comparable students from these year levels. After accounting for attrition, the treatment group comprised 31 (16 females) participants, and the delayed treatment group 36 participants (16 females). Measures of stigmatic attitudes, desired social distance and help-seeking intentions were taken at pre-, post-, and 12-week follow-up. The intervention comprised two sessions each of 90 minutes spaced one week apart. Focus-group discussions held post-intervention expanded evaluations of the program; and suggested areas for improvement. The first hypothesis, that prior to intervention, adolescent boys would have significantly higher social stigma, self stigma, desired social distance from those with mental illness, and perceived barriers to seeking help than females, was supported. The second hypothesis, that participants in the treatment group would report lower social- and self-stigma, desired social distance, and fewer perceived barriers to seeking help post-intervention than pre-intervention and compared to the control group was supported in part. The third hypothesis, that reductions in social stigma, self stigma, desired social distance, and barriers to seeking help would be maintained at follow-up also received mixed support. Qualitative data confirmed that student attitudes towards those with mental health issues improved slightly; however, it also indicated that more change was possible and provided direction for future programs. Results have implications for anti-stigma campaign development and implementation. Suggestions for developing more effective anti-stigma programs that will help to lift the burden of stigma and to increase help-seeking behaviours for rural youth are discussed.
- Description: Doctor of Psychology
- Authors: Newnham, Krystal
- Date: 2011
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Two forms of stigma – social and self – represent barriers to receiving professional help for rural Australian adolescents with mental health issues. Characteristics of rural communities such as self-reliance, social proximity and social exclusion are thought to compound experiences of stigma, creating a fear of seeking professional help. The aim of this project was to design and evaluate a stigma reduction program for rural secondary school students. A two-stage quasi-experimental research design was developed. Study 1 involved working collaboratively with seven students from a rural secondary school to develop a population specific program. The curriculum development process was evaluated and the final form of the intervention documented. Study 2 involved delivering and evaluating the intervention within the same secondary school. The aim of Study 2 was to decrease adolescents‟ stigma of mental illness, as measured by social and self stigmatic attitudes, desired social distance, and help-seeking intentions. The treatment group comprised students from year 7, 8, 9, and 12, and the control comprised a delayed treatment group of comparable students from these year levels. After accounting for attrition, the treatment group comprised 31 (16 females) participants, and the delayed treatment group 36 participants (16 females). Measures of stigmatic attitudes, desired social distance and help-seeking intentions were taken at pre-, post-, and 12-week follow-up. The intervention comprised two sessions each of 90 minutes spaced one week apart. Focus-group discussions held post-intervention expanded evaluations of the program; and suggested areas for improvement. The first hypothesis, that prior to intervention, adolescent boys would have significantly higher social stigma, self stigma, desired social distance from those with mental illness, and perceived barriers to seeking help than females, was supported. The second hypothesis, that participants in the treatment group would report lower social- and self-stigma, desired social distance, and fewer perceived barriers to seeking help post-intervention than pre-intervention and compared to the control group was supported in part. The third hypothesis, that reductions in social stigma, self stigma, desired social distance, and barriers to seeking help would be maintained at follow-up also received mixed support. Qualitative data confirmed that student attitudes towards those with mental health issues improved slightly; however, it also indicated that more change was possible and provided direction for future programs. Results have implications for anti-stigma campaign development and implementation. Suggestions for developing more effective anti-stigma programs that will help to lift the burden of stigma and to increase help-seeking behaviours for rural youth are discussed.
- Description: Doctor of Psychology
Development and evaluation of optimization based data mining techniques analysis of brain data
- Authors: Zarei, Mahdi
- Date: 2015
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Neuroscience is an interdisciplinary science which deals with the study of structure and function of the brain and nervous system. Neuroscience encompasses disciplines such as computer science, mathematics, engineering, and linguistics. The structure of the healthy brain and representation of information by neural activity are among most challenging problems in neuroscience. Neuroscience is experiencing exponentially growing volumes of data obtained by using different technologies. The investigation of such data has tremendous impact on developing new and improving existing models of both healthy and diseased brains. Various techniques have been used for collecting brain data sets for addressing neuroscience problems. These data sets can be categorized into two main groups: resting-state and state-dependent data sets. Resting-state data is based on recording the brain activity when a subject does not think about any specific concept while state-dependent data is based on recording brain activity related to specific tasks. In general, brain data sets contain a large number of features (e.g. tens of thousands) and significantly fewer samples (e.g. several hundred). Such data sets are sparse and noisy. In addition to these problems, brain data sets have a few number of subjects. Brains are very complex systems and data about any brain activity reflects very complex relationship between neurons as well as different parts of the brain. Such relationships are highly nonlinear and general purpose data mining algorithms are not always efficient for their study. The development of machine learning techniques for brain data sets is an emerging research area in neuroscience. Over the last decade, various machine learning techniques have been developed for application to brain data sets. In the meantime, some well-known algorithms such as feature selection and supervised classification have been modified for analysis of brain data sets. Support vector machines, logistic regression, and Gaussian Naive Bayes classifiers are widely used for application to brain data sets. However, Support vector machines and logistic regression algorithms are not efficient for sparse and noisy data sets and Gaussian Naive Bayes classifiers do not give high accuracy. The aim of this study is to develop new and modify the existing data mining algorithms for the analysis brain data sets. Our contribution in this thesis can be listed as follow: 1. Development of new algorithms: 1.1. Development of new voxel (feature) selection algorithms for Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data sets, and evaluation of these algorithms on the Haxby and Science 2008 data sets. 1.2. Development of new feature selection algorithm based on the catastrophe model for regression analysis problems. 2. Development and evaluation of different versions of the adaptive neuro-fuzzy model for the analysis of the spike-discharge as a function of other neuronal parameters. 3. Development and evaluation of the modified global k-means clustering algorithm for investigation of the structure of the healthy brain. 4. Development and evaluation of region of interest (ROI) method for analysis of brain functionalconnectivity in healthy subjects and schizophrenia patients.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Zarei, Mahdi
- Date: 2015
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Neuroscience is an interdisciplinary science which deals with the study of structure and function of the brain and nervous system. Neuroscience encompasses disciplines such as computer science, mathematics, engineering, and linguistics. The structure of the healthy brain and representation of information by neural activity are among most challenging problems in neuroscience. Neuroscience is experiencing exponentially growing volumes of data obtained by using different technologies. The investigation of such data has tremendous impact on developing new and improving existing models of both healthy and diseased brains. Various techniques have been used for collecting brain data sets for addressing neuroscience problems. These data sets can be categorized into two main groups: resting-state and state-dependent data sets. Resting-state data is based on recording the brain activity when a subject does not think about any specific concept while state-dependent data is based on recording brain activity related to specific tasks. In general, brain data sets contain a large number of features (e.g. tens of thousands) and significantly fewer samples (e.g. several hundred). Such data sets are sparse and noisy. In addition to these problems, brain data sets have a few number of subjects. Brains are very complex systems and data about any brain activity reflects very complex relationship between neurons as well as different parts of the brain. Such relationships are highly nonlinear and general purpose data mining algorithms are not always efficient for their study. The development of machine learning techniques for brain data sets is an emerging research area in neuroscience. Over the last decade, various machine learning techniques have been developed for application to brain data sets. In the meantime, some well-known algorithms such as feature selection and supervised classification have been modified for analysis of brain data sets. Support vector machines, logistic regression, and Gaussian Naive Bayes classifiers are widely used for application to brain data sets. However, Support vector machines and logistic regression algorithms are not efficient for sparse and noisy data sets and Gaussian Naive Bayes classifiers do not give high accuracy. The aim of this study is to develop new and modify the existing data mining algorithms for the analysis brain data sets. Our contribution in this thesis can be listed as follow: 1. Development of new algorithms: 1.1. Development of new voxel (feature) selection algorithms for Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data sets, and evaluation of these algorithms on the Haxby and Science 2008 data sets. 1.2. Development of new feature selection algorithm based on the catastrophe model for regression analysis problems. 2. Development and evaluation of different versions of the adaptive neuro-fuzzy model for the analysis of the spike-discharge as a function of other neuronal parameters. 3. Development and evaluation of the modified global k-means clustering algorithm for investigation of the structure of the healthy brain. 4. Development and evaluation of region of interest (ROI) method for analysis of brain functionalconnectivity in healthy subjects and schizophrenia patients.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
Development and validation of the Pre-school Educational and Psychological Screen (PrEPS)
- Authors: Heeney, Simone
- Date: 2004
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Children with behavioural, social, and emotional problems in preschool are often at risk for school maladjustment and the development of psychological disorders when they enter the school system. This study sought to develop and validate a preschool screening instrument that could identify the precursors and symptoms of mental health problems and provide targeted intervention processes. Measures included on the screen were 20 items identified by 126 Victorian Prep teachers as most important for school success. When administered by teachers of 143 (68 boys, 75 girls) preschoolaged children, these items demonstrated an internal reliability of .97. Factor analysis resulted in a 3-factor solution, with 'Learning Skills", 'Social Skills', and 'Good Start Skills' emerging as factors. This 'Preschool Educational and Psychological Screen' (PrEPS) demonstrated significant concurrent, predictive, and construct validity. Factor scores were associated with family income, fathers' education, parents' marital status, and child's age, hours of sleep, and gender. Results indicate that the PrEPS is a reliable and valid instrument in the identification of early indicators of psychological problems in preschoolers.
- Description: Professional Doctorate of Psychology (Clinical)
- Description: This research thesis is submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of D. Psych (Clinical), School of Behavioural & Social Science & Humanities.
- Authors: Heeney, Simone
- Date: 2004
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Children with behavioural, social, and emotional problems in preschool are often at risk for school maladjustment and the development of psychological disorders when they enter the school system. This study sought to develop and validate a preschool screening instrument that could identify the precursors and symptoms of mental health problems and provide targeted intervention processes. Measures included on the screen were 20 items identified by 126 Victorian Prep teachers as most important for school success. When administered by teachers of 143 (68 boys, 75 girls) preschoolaged children, these items demonstrated an internal reliability of .97. Factor analysis resulted in a 3-factor solution, with 'Learning Skills", 'Social Skills', and 'Good Start Skills' emerging as factors. This 'Preschool Educational and Psychological Screen' (PrEPS) demonstrated significant concurrent, predictive, and construct validity. Factor scores were associated with family income, fathers' education, parents' marital status, and child's age, hours of sleep, and gender. Results indicate that the PrEPS is a reliable and valid instrument in the identification of early indicators of psychological problems in preschoolers.
- Description: Professional Doctorate of Psychology (Clinical)
- Description: This research thesis is submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of D. Psych (Clinical), School of Behavioural & Social Science & Humanities.
Development of a long-term climatology of tropical 1 cyclones and depressions for the South Pacific 2 Ocean basin
- Authors: Yeasmin, Alea
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Tropical cyclones (TCs) are one of the most destructive synoptic systems that can cause enormous loss of life and property damages in the South Pacific Island nations. The impact of tropical depressions (TDs, i.e., weaker systems that do not develop into TCs) can also be staggering in the region in terms of heavy flooding and landslides, but a lack of complete records (reliable data prior to 1950) often hinders research involving TD impacts. A methodology has been developed here to detect TDs in the ERA-5 (the fifth generation European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts-ECMWF atmospheric reanalysis of the global climate) and 20CR (the Twentieth Century Reanalysis) dataset using the Okubo–Weiss–Zeta parameter (OWZP) detection scheme. The new South Pacific Enhanced Archive for Tropical Cyclones dataset (SPEArTC), the Dvorak analysis of satellite-based cloud patterns over the South Pacific Ocean basin, rainfall dataset for various stations in the South Pacific and historical archives have been utilised to validate ERA5/20CR-derived TCs and TDs. Results indicate that the OWZP method shows substantial skill in capturing the realistic climatological distribution of TCs and TDs for the South Pacific Ocean in both reanalyses dataset. The 20CR-derived TCs and TDs resemble several key characteristics of the observational records, including spatial distribution of genesis locations and track shapes. This gives us confidence that the 20CR-derived long-term records of TCs and TDs can serve as an effective tool for examining historical changes in various characteristics of TCs and TDs, particularly in the context of anthropogenic climate change. Utilizing the reconstructed proxies of TCs and TDs, their climatic connections with the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO), the Interdecadal Pacific Oscillation (IPO), and the combined ENSO-IPO phases have been examined. Results show clear spatial shifts in TC activity between La Niña and El Niño phases with activity in the region 1400-1700E (1700-2200E) occurring during La Niña (El Niño) events. However, when IPO is considered synergistically with ENSO phases, we found that the combination of El Niño and the positive phase of IPO (+IPO) substantially enhances TC numbers (may be artifact influence) in both domains, noting the modulation between the two phases themselves. Similarly, La Niña and the negative phase of the IPO (-IPO) is found to enhance TC numbers in 1400-1700E. It is shown for the first time that the combined phases of El Niño and +IPO account for increased TC activity, as opposed to the combined phase of La Niña and -IPO, in the eastern sub-region. Similarly, the combined phase of La Niña and +IPO, as opposed to the combined phase of El Niño and -IPO, account for increased TC activity in the western sub-region. However, unlike TCs, the patterns of ENSO variability seem to be reversed for TDs. Changes in large-scale environmental conditions, such as environmental vertical wind shear, low-level cyclonic relative vorticity, mid-tropospheric relative humidity and sea surface temperature are linked to the various modes of variability patterns and their synergistic relationships. Results can have substantial implications, particularly on the predictability of TCs and TDs associated with the two important modes of natural variability in the South Pacific.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Yeasmin, Alea
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Tropical cyclones (TCs) are one of the most destructive synoptic systems that can cause enormous loss of life and property damages in the South Pacific Island nations. The impact of tropical depressions (TDs, i.e., weaker systems that do not develop into TCs) can also be staggering in the region in terms of heavy flooding and landslides, but a lack of complete records (reliable data prior to 1950) often hinders research involving TD impacts. A methodology has been developed here to detect TDs in the ERA-5 (the fifth generation European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts-ECMWF atmospheric reanalysis of the global climate) and 20CR (the Twentieth Century Reanalysis) dataset using the Okubo–Weiss–Zeta parameter (OWZP) detection scheme. The new South Pacific Enhanced Archive for Tropical Cyclones dataset (SPEArTC), the Dvorak analysis of satellite-based cloud patterns over the South Pacific Ocean basin, rainfall dataset for various stations in the South Pacific and historical archives have been utilised to validate ERA5/20CR-derived TCs and TDs. Results indicate that the OWZP method shows substantial skill in capturing the realistic climatological distribution of TCs and TDs for the South Pacific Ocean in both reanalyses dataset. The 20CR-derived TCs and TDs resemble several key characteristics of the observational records, including spatial distribution of genesis locations and track shapes. This gives us confidence that the 20CR-derived long-term records of TCs and TDs can serve as an effective tool for examining historical changes in various characteristics of TCs and TDs, particularly in the context of anthropogenic climate change. Utilizing the reconstructed proxies of TCs and TDs, their climatic connections with the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO), the Interdecadal Pacific Oscillation (IPO), and the combined ENSO-IPO phases have been examined. Results show clear spatial shifts in TC activity between La Niña and El Niño phases with activity in the region 1400-1700E (1700-2200E) occurring during La Niña (El Niño) events. However, when IPO is considered synergistically with ENSO phases, we found that the combination of El Niño and the positive phase of IPO (+IPO) substantially enhances TC numbers (may be artifact influence) in both domains, noting the modulation between the two phases themselves. Similarly, La Niña and the negative phase of the IPO (-IPO) is found to enhance TC numbers in 1400-1700E. It is shown for the first time that the combined phases of El Niño and +IPO account for increased TC activity, as opposed to the combined phase of La Niña and -IPO, in the eastern sub-region. Similarly, the combined phase of La Niña and +IPO, as opposed to the combined phase of El Niño and -IPO, account for increased TC activity in the western sub-region. However, unlike TCs, the patterns of ENSO variability seem to be reversed for TDs. Changes in large-scale environmental conditions, such as environmental vertical wind shear, low-level cyclonic relative vorticity, mid-tropospheric relative humidity and sea surface temperature are linked to the various modes of variability patterns and their synergistic relationships. Results can have substantial implications, particularly on the predictability of TCs and TDs associated with the two important modes of natural variability in the South Pacific.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
Development of scaled boundary finite element method for geotechnical and mining engineering
- Authors: Wijesinghe, Dakshith
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text: false
- Description: Numerical methods are a mature field of research and have become an increasingly important tool in mining and geotechnical engineering design practices. Although the advantages of numerical methods in aiding the analysis and solving practical engineering problems have been widely accepted and recognised, there is still a gap for further improvements. One such area is the challenge to consider the complexities of geology and the lack of stratigraphic information in the numerical model. Failure to include geological complexities may lead to overestimating the analysis parameters, such as the safety factor. These difficulties mainly manifest in the form of complex mesh generation due to the need to integrate spatial variable material parameters, capturing complex geological features, requirement of additional meshing algorithms, high human involvement, and long processing time. The scaled boundary finite element method (SBFEM) is a semi-analytical method that has potential to address these types of problems. This thesis focuses on developing the SBFEM to address these challenges so that complex geotechnical and mining engineering can be better modelled. Optimisation problems in geotechnical and mining engineering are also considered by developing a combined SBFEM-genetic algorithm framework for the design and rehabilitation of slopes. To begin with, an image-based mesh generation procedure is developed to automatically integrate the spatially variable material parameters into a computational mesh. The procedure allows the input of large data sets of geological and geometrical information in image format, and the mapping procedure enables the concatenation of any number of material parameters into a single computational mesh. The scaled boundary finite element formulation is used to discretise the governing equations of elasto-plasticity considering a Mohr-Coulomb failure criterion, which is common in soils. A shear strength reduction technique is implemented to analyse the stability of slopes in the form of an output Factor of Safety. The developed method is shown to allow routine changes in the operation of the slopes to consider geometric changes, such as backfilling, excavation and updates to geological sublets, by simply editing the digital image inputs. To extend the SBFEM to more complex geotechnical and mining engineering applications, a formulation that considers the coupled effect of pore pressure and nonlinear deformation of the soil is developed. The image-based mesh generation procedure is incorporated to integrate the geological complexities, which include heterogeneity of strate and phreatic surfaces. The developed technique is applied to study complex case studies of a tailings dam embankment construction and a coal slope rehabilitation project with a construction period. The research also considers geometric optimisation problems within the context of geotechnical and mining engineering applications. Geometric optimisation of slopes such as those in open cut mines is important to reduce the overhead operational cost involved in construction, excavation and rehabilitation backfilling, while ensuring stability at an acceptable level. This is achieved by developing a unified platform combining genetic algorithm (GA) with scaled boundary finite element formulations and image-based meshing procedures. Since the image-based mesh generation procedure is an automatic process, it enables automation of the optimisation, which is an iterative proceeding. The capabilities of this technique are demonstrated by optimising the geometric parameters of complex slopes for given safety factors and rehabilitation geometries for given safety factors during a given construction period. The image-based SBFEM analysis platform is further developed to consider geological uncertainty, such as stratigraphic interfaces and phreatic surface fluctuations, so that their effect on slope stability can be studied. The Brownian bridge statistic technique is integrated into the pre-processing module to produce these instances reflecting the ranii dom fluctuations between two intervals and generate possible geological and hydrological cross-sections. This allows unknown geological stratigraphic interface fluctuation due to a lack of sublet information to be considered. The scaled boundary finite element formulations developed in the earlier parts of this thesis are used to discretise each generated profile and analysis probabilistically. Since the mesh generation method is fully automatic, this probabilistic analysis procedure enables to analyse of a large number of possible variations and their effect on geotechnical structures with limited human intervention. Few parametric studies were conducted on slopes to study the impact of stratigraphic and phreatic surface fluctuation on the probability of failure. Finally, the hydraulic fracture commonly seen in geotechnical and mining engineering applications is considered. The phase field has the potential to model complex fracture mechanisms including crack nucleation, branching and coalescence. However, it requires a very fine mesh in order to accurately regularise the energy resulting from the creation of new crack faces. This leads to longer processing time and high computational requirements. Moreover, fracture propagation modelling with phase field models requires equilibrium iterations and hence repetitive calculation of element matrices. This research develops a scaled boundary finite element formulation with phase field model to address hydraulic fracture problems in fully-saturated poro-elastic media. Adaptive meshing refinement based on quadtree meshes is applied. This restricts the fine mesh requirement to only the regions where damage is present and avoids the need for a very fine mesh throughout the structure. Further, leveraging from the unique number of patterns in a hierarchical mesh, an appropriate scaling technique is applied to transform the relevant matrices and vectors to the physical cell in the mesh. This avoids the need for repetitive calculations during the equilibrium iterations. These features increase the efficiency of fracture modelling while reducing the computational requirement. The benchmark problems and complex fracture network problems are provided to highlight the advantage of the method.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
Diegetic wounds : the representation of individual and collective trauma in found footage horror films
- Authors: Hubber, Duncan
- Date: 2021
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: The type of horror film known as “found footage” was prominent in the 2000s and early 2010s. The term refers to films that aim to scare their audience, and which are primarily shot diegetically, with handheld and surveillance cameras that exist within the world of the film. The thesis identifies conceptual, aesthetic, and thematic links between found footage horror films and psychological trauma theory. For example, in each film the premise of the characters and viewers finding footage of a frightening event evokes the victim’s belated recollection of a traumatic experience. Additionally, the often-frantic cinematography and ambiguous formulation of the monster evokes the shocked and disoriented cognition of the trauma victim in the wake of their experience. Finally, the experience and effect of trauma on society is a recurring theme of found footage horror films. By examining 14 films, this thesis aims to answer the question: how do found footage horror films represent the relationship between individual and collective trauma? It theorises that individual trauma is conveyed through the films’ point-of-view (POV) aesthetic, while collective trauma is conveyed through their narrative themes. The thesis groups the films into four categories, each of which addresses a different aspect of trauma theory. Firstly, Remote found footage horror films, such as The Blair Witch Project (Myrick and Sánchez 1999), are examined as depictions of national historical traumas. Secondly, Urban found footage horror films, such as Cloverfield (Reeves 2008), are read as depictions of contemporary global traumas. Thirdly, Domestic found footage horror films, such as Paranormal Activity (Peli 2009), are framed as depictions of systemic domestic trauma. Fourthly, Perpetrator found footage horror films, such as Man Bites Dog (Belvaux, Bonzel and Poelvoorde 1992), are examined as depictions of perpetrator trauma. The thesis disputes the claim made by numerous critics and theorists that found footage horror films do not constitute a subgenre, but merely a cinematographic style or marketing gimmick. By demonstrating their aesthetic and thematic consistency, and the manifold ways that found footage horror can be read as representing trauma, the thesis argues that the films constitute a specific subgenre of horror cinema. The thesis makes significant contributions to knowledge by identifying, testing and demonstrating links between horror film theory, genre theory, spectator theory, and psychological and collective trauma theory. It conducts a broad survey of a recent subgenre of horror films that has, thus far, only received sporadic and insubstantial academic attention. It also presents an original theory that explains the psychological and sociological subtext of the subgenre, and the cultural insights that the films provide.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Hubber, Duncan
- Date: 2021
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: The type of horror film known as “found footage” was prominent in the 2000s and early 2010s. The term refers to films that aim to scare their audience, and which are primarily shot diegetically, with handheld and surveillance cameras that exist within the world of the film. The thesis identifies conceptual, aesthetic, and thematic links between found footage horror films and psychological trauma theory. For example, in each film the premise of the characters and viewers finding footage of a frightening event evokes the victim’s belated recollection of a traumatic experience. Additionally, the often-frantic cinematography and ambiguous formulation of the monster evokes the shocked and disoriented cognition of the trauma victim in the wake of their experience. Finally, the experience and effect of trauma on society is a recurring theme of found footage horror films. By examining 14 films, this thesis aims to answer the question: how do found footage horror films represent the relationship between individual and collective trauma? It theorises that individual trauma is conveyed through the films’ point-of-view (POV) aesthetic, while collective trauma is conveyed through their narrative themes. The thesis groups the films into four categories, each of which addresses a different aspect of trauma theory. Firstly, Remote found footage horror films, such as The Blair Witch Project (Myrick and Sánchez 1999), are examined as depictions of national historical traumas. Secondly, Urban found footage horror films, such as Cloverfield (Reeves 2008), are read as depictions of contemporary global traumas. Thirdly, Domestic found footage horror films, such as Paranormal Activity (Peli 2009), are framed as depictions of systemic domestic trauma. Fourthly, Perpetrator found footage horror films, such as Man Bites Dog (Belvaux, Bonzel and Poelvoorde 1992), are examined as depictions of perpetrator trauma. The thesis disputes the claim made by numerous critics and theorists that found footage horror films do not constitute a subgenre, but merely a cinematographic style or marketing gimmick. By demonstrating their aesthetic and thematic consistency, and the manifold ways that found footage horror can be read as representing trauma, the thesis argues that the films constitute a specific subgenre of horror cinema. The thesis makes significant contributions to knowledge by identifying, testing and demonstrating links between horror film theory, genre theory, spectator theory, and psychological and collective trauma theory. It conducts a broad survey of a recent subgenre of horror films that has, thus far, only received sporadic and insubstantial academic attention. It also presents an original theory that explains the psychological and sociological subtext of the subgenre, and the cultural insights that the films provide.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
Different contexts of physical activity in relation to children's self-concept
- Authors: Jiang, Xiaoli
- Date: 1996
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text: false
- Description: "This study investigates children's self-concept in relation to the quality of school physical education and sports programs, the teaching by physical education specialists and participation in extra curricular sport activities."
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Jiang, Xiaoli
- Date: 1996
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text: false
- Description: "This study investigates children's self-concept in relation to the quality of school physical education and sports programs, the teaching by physical education specialists and participation in extra curricular sport activities."
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
Differential desiring practice- A path into a Deleuze inspired literary discourse
- Authors: Gaudlitz, Erika
- Date: 2011
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Drawing on Deleuze’s and Deleuze-Guattari’s differential and A path into a Deleuze inspired literary discourse in Difference and repetition and The logic of sense; Anti-Oedipus and A thousand plateaus and their engagement with literary texts in Kafka: Toward a minor literature; Proust and signs and Masochism: Coldness and cruelty, I unfold the following problematic in this thesis: What Deleuze (and Deleuze-Guattari) inspired critical practice can be theorized which allows the reading of works that resist interpretative representational practices? Proposing the differential, the libidinal, the schizoanalytic, the symptomatological and the simulacral as schizoid processes of discursive dissociation, this thesis theorizes and develops such a practice. More specifically I unravel and explore, theoretically and practically, the strands of what I term a differential desiring practice. Further I demonstrate the usefulness and power of this differential desiring practice, engaging first with Duras’ work as schizoid and liminal processes of event and becoming; and second with Carter’s work as schizoanalytic and parodic processes. Overall this thesis presents differential desiring practice as a reading and writing practice marked by thematic and stylistic schizodicity and discursive dissociation. Such a presentation not only opens a new path into a Deleuze inspired literary discourse by reappraising Deleuze’s and Deleuze-Guattari’s differential and schizoanalytic project, but puts forward a productive model for working with recalcitrant literary texts.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Gaudlitz, Erika
- Date: 2011
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Drawing on Deleuze’s and Deleuze-Guattari’s differential and A path into a Deleuze inspired literary discourse in Difference and repetition and The logic of sense; Anti-Oedipus and A thousand plateaus and their engagement with literary texts in Kafka: Toward a minor literature; Proust and signs and Masochism: Coldness and cruelty, I unfold the following problematic in this thesis: What Deleuze (and Deleuze-Guattari) inspired critical practice can be theorized which allows the reading of works that resist interpretative representational practices? Proposing the differential, the libidinal, the schizoanalytic, the symptomatological and the simulacral as schizoid processes of discursive dissociation, this thesis theorizes and develops such a practice. More specifically I unravel and explore, theoretically and practically, the strands of what I term a differential desiring practice. Further I demonstrate the usefulness and power of this differential desiring practice, engaging first with Duras’ work as schizoid and liminal processes of event and becoming; and second with Carter’s work as schizoanalytic and parodic processes. Overall this thesis presents differential desiring practice as a reading and writing practice marked by thematic and stylistic schizodicity and discursive dissociation. Such a presentation not only opens a new path into a Deleuze inspired literary discourse by reappraising Deleuze’s and Deleuze-Guattari’s differential and schizoanalytic project, but puts forward a productive model for working with recalcitrant literary texts.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
Discovering Smeaton : people, trade and finance, a study of imperialism and its heritage
- Authors: Just, Alan
- Date: 2021
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Using Anderson’s Mill in the Victorian goldfield township of Smeaton as a case study, this thesis examines how the process of colonisation can be understood through the study of local history in the context of its imperial heritage. It also examines the transition of Crown sovereignty to colonial sovereignty in Victoria during the second half of the nineteenth century. This thesis explores the proposition that by discovering the history of Smeaton through the era of John Anderson, it is possible to trace how the Victorian gold rushes and the imperial legacy shaped the emerging Australian nation and constructions of identity during the era when the doctrine of terra nullius prevailed. The thesis sets out the argument that the history of Anderson's Mill and the township of Smeaton provides an original perspective into the Australian colonisation process, particularly in the colony of Victorian. It also contends that the Victorian gold rushes altered the balance of an imperial power struggle that influenced the colonial foundations of notions of sovereignty. This was underpinned by finance and trade, which were the driving forces that transferred the notion of empire through to local colonial communities. What emerges in this thesis is a critical narrative of colonial Victoria, which highlights the particular dynamic tension that was present between the colony and the imperial centre through a sharp focus on Anderson’s Mill and Smeaton, its associated townships.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Just, Alan
- Date: 2021
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Using Anderson’s Mill in the Victorian goldfield township of Smeaton as a case study, this thesis examines how the process of colonisation can be understood through the study of local history in the context of its imperial heritage. It also examines the transition of Crown sovereignty to colonial sovereignty in Victoria during the second half of the nineteenth century. This thesis explores the proposition that by discovering the history of Smeaton through the era of John Anderson, it is possible to trace how the Victorian gold rushes and the imperial legacy shaped the emerging Australian nation and constructions of identity during the era when the doctrine of terra nullius prevailed. The thesis sets out the argument that the history of Anderson's Mill and the township of Smeaton provides an original perspective into the Australian colonisation process, particularly in the colony of Victorian. It also contends that the Victorian gold rushes altered the balance of an imperial power struggle that influenced the colonial foundations of notions of sovereignty. This was underpinned by finance and trade, which were the driving forces that transferred the notion of empire through to local colonial communities. What emerges in this thesis is a critical narrative of colonial Victoria, which highlights the particular dynamic tension that was present between the colony and the imperial centre through a sharp focus on Anderson’s Mill and Smeaton, its associated townships.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
Distributed and parallel methods for structural convex optimization
- Authors: Li, Jueyou
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: There has been considerable recent interest in optimization methods associated with a multi-agent network. The goal is to optimize a global objective function which is a sum of local objective functions only known by the agents through the network. The focus of this dissertation is the development of optimization algorithms for the special class when the optimization problem of interest has an additive or separable structure. Specifically, we are concerned with two classes of convex optimization problems. The first one is called as multi-agent convex problems and they arise in many network applications, including in-network estimation, machine learning and signal processing. The second one is termed as separable convex problems and they arise in diverse applications, including network resource allocation, and distributed model prediction and control. Due to the structure of problems and privacy of local objective functions, special optimization methods are always desirable, especially for large-scale structured problems. For the multi-agent convex problems with simple constraints, we develop gradient-free distributed methods based on the incremental and consensus strategies. The convergence analysis and convergence rates of proposed methods are provided. By comparison, existing distributed algorithms require first-order information of objective functions, but our methods only involve the estimates of objective function value. Therefore, the proposed methods are suitable to solve more general problems even when the first-order information of problems is unavailable or costly to compute. In practical applications a wide variety of problems are formulated as multi-agent optimization problems subject to equality and (or) inequality constraints. Methods available for solving this type of problems are still limited in the literature. Most of them are based on the Lagrangian duality, and there is no estimates on the convergence rate. In the thesis, we develop a distributed proximal-gradient method to solve multi-agent convex problems under global inequality constraints. Moreover, we provide the convergence analysis of the proposed method and obtain the explicit estimates of convergence rate. Our method relies on the exact penalty function method and multi-consensus averaging, not involving the Lagrangian multipliers. For the separable convex problems with linear constraints, on the framework of Lagrangian dual decomposition, we develop fast gradient-based optimization methods, including a fast dual gradient-projection method and a fast dual gradient method. In addition to parallel implementation of the algorithm, our focus is that the algorithm has faster convergence rate, since existing dual subgradient-based algorithms suffer from a slow convergence rate. Our proposed algorithms are based Nesterov’s smoothing technique and several fast gradient schemes. The explicit convergence rates of the proposed algorithms are obtained, which are superior to those obtained by subgradient-based algorithms. The proposed algorithms are applied to a real-pricing problem in smart grid and a network utility maximum problem. Dual decomposition methods often involve in finding the exact solution of an inner subproblem at each iteration. However, from a practical point of view, the subproblem is never solved exactly. Hence, we extend the proposed fast dual gradient-projection method to the inexact setting. Although the inner subproblem is solved only up to certain precision, we provide a complete analysis of computational complexity on the generated approximate solutions. Thus, our inexact version has the attractive computational advantage that the subproblem only needs to be solved with certain accuracy while still maintaining the same iteration complexity as the exact counterpart.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Li, Jueyou
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: There has been considerable recent interest in optimization methods associated with a multi-agent network. The goal is to optimize a global objective function which is a sum of local objective functions only known by the agents through the network. The focus of this dissertation is the development of optimization algorithms for the special class when the optimization problem of interest has an additive or separable structure. Specifically, we are concerned with two classes of convex optimization problems. The first one is called as multi-agent convex problems and they arise in many network applications, including in-network estimation, machine learning and signal processing. The second one is termed as separable convex problems and they arise in diverse applications, including network resource allocation, and distributed model prediction and control. Due to the structure of problems and privacy of local objective functions, special optimization methods are always desirable, especially for large-scale structured problems. For the multi-agent convex problems with simple constraints, we develop gradient-free distributed methods based on the incremental and consensus strategies. The convergence analysis and convergence rates of proposed methods are provided. By comparison, existing distributed algorithms require first-order information of objective functions, but our methods only involve the estimates of objective function value. Therefore, the proposed methods are suitable to solve more general problems even when the first-order information of problems is unavailable or costly to compute. In practical applications a wide variety of problems are formulated as multi-agent optimization problems subject to equality and (or) inequality constraints. Methods available for solving this type of problems are still limited in the literature. Most of them are based on the Lagrangian duality, and there is no estimates on the convergence rate. In the thesis, we develop a distributed proximal-gradient method to solve multi-agent convex problems under global inequality constraints. Moreover, we provide the convergence analysis of the proposed method and obtain the explicit estimates of convergence rate. Our method relies on the exact penalty function method and multi-consensus averaging, not involving the Lagrangian multipliers. For the separable convex problems with linear constraints, on the framework of Lagrangian dual decomposition, we develop fast gradient-based optimization methods, including a fast dual gradient-projection method and a fast dual gradient method. In addition to parallel implementation of the algorithm, our focus is that the algorithm has faster convergence rate, since existing dual subgradient-based algorithms suffer from a slow convergence rate. Our proposed algorithms are based Nesterov’s smoothing technique and several fast gradient schemes. The explicit convergence rates of the proposed algorithms are obtained, which are superior to those obtained by subgradient-based algorithms. The proposed algorithms are applied to a real-pricing problem in smart grid and a network utility maximum problem. Dual decomposition methods often involve in finding the exact solution of an inner subproblem at each iteration. However, from a practical point of view, the subproblem is never solved exactly. Hence, we extend the proposed fast dual gradient-projection method to the inexact setting. Although the inner subproblem is solved only up to certain precision, we provide a complete analysis of computational complexity on the generated approximate solutions. Thus, our inexact version has the attractive computational advantage that the subproblem only needs to be solved with certain accuracy while still maintaining the same iteration complexity as the exact counterpart.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
Distribution of arsenic and heavy metals in soils and surface waters in Central Victoria (Ballarat, Creswick and Maldon)
- Authors: Sultan, Khawar
- Date: 2006
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: "Three sampling campaigns were conducted in the Ballarat, Creswick and Maldon areas. The sampling area is part of the Golden Triangle region where significant gold-mining activities took place from the 1850s to the present day. [...] Locations were chosen to evaluate arsenic distribution in soils, surface waters and plants in different environments. Easy access to sampling locations allowed detailed scientific sampling, especially in the seasonality study. The different range of environments such as agricultural, state forest, mining, urban and rural provided an opportunity to compare the concentrations of arsenic and other elements in the study area. The study of the three selected areas combined provided further understanding of possible exposure and pathways through which arsenic can get into the food chain. "The objective of the study is to measure levels of heavy metals/metalloids in soils, water and plants in various environments, identify whether the heavy metals/metalloids are mobile and bioavailable and understand the importance of clays and oxide complexes in the fixation of metals."
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
- Authors: Sultan, Khawar
- Date: 2006
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: "Three sampling campaigns were conducted in the Ballarat, Creswick and Maldon areas. The sampling area is part of the Golden Triangle region where significant gold-mining activities took place from the 1850s to the present day. [...] Locations were chosen to evaluate arsenic distribution in soils, surface waters and plants in different environments. Easy access to sampling locations allowed detailed scientific sampling, especially in the seasonality study. The different range of environments such as agricultural, state forest, mining, urban and rural provided an opportunity to compare the concentrations of arsenic and other elements in the study area. The study of the three selected areas combined provided further understanding of possible exposure and pathways through which arsenic can get into the food chain. "The objective of the study is to measure levels of heavy metals/metalloids in soils, water and plants in various environments, identify whether the heavy metals/metalloids are mobile and bioavailable and understand the importance of clays and oxide complexes in the fixation of metals."
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
- Authors: Trewarn, Adam
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text: false
- Description: Sediments are the ultimate repository of most contaminants that enter Australia's waterways; therefore, it is appropriate that regulatory attention addresses the risks posed by sediment contaminants. The release of elevated levels of heavy metals into the environment is a common by-product of our industrialised way of life. This problem continues to increase throughout the industrial age. We are now only beginning to understand the actual long-term burden that must be managed. Globally, estuaries are a critical focal point for civilisation and development. Owing to their strategic location and abundant resources, they have been utilised as trade hubs and industrial centres, and are often subject to intense industrial and urban development. Because estuaries accommodate large volumes of fine-grained sediments, their capacity to trap and absorb metal pollutants qualifies them as important sinks and receptacles for terrestrial, atmospheric, and oceanic metal input. Estuaries also provide important environmental services. Their protective conditions harbour a diverse range of biota, and the biogeochemical processes they accommodate play a key role in nutrient cycling and metal sequestration. However, contamination of estuaries with heavy metals is an ongoing issue, particularly as they bioaccumulate and transfer from sediments to aquatic organisms through the food chain. The Gippsland Lakes catchment has a 150-year history of a range of industrial activities, including gold and other metal mining, large open-cut brown coal mines and associated coalfired power stations, powering much of the state of Victoria, plantation forests and associated timber and paper mills, and extensive agriculture, including intensive dairy. Many of these activities are potential sources of contamination, particularly in bygone times, when environmental awareness and sound practices were less prevalent. The issue of highly elevated levels of heavy metal contaminants present within the Gippsland Lake sediments was first identified over 35 years ago. This comprehensive study looks to re-evaluate the modern surface sediments from across the Gippsland Lakes to determine, (i) If previously identified elevated Hg levels are still present or can be replicated (ii) If there are other metal contaminants that may warrant further attention, (iii) If possible, contamination is current, historical or a prolonged event (iv) If there are any natural or anthropogenic influences affecting metal concentrations within the sediments (v) What is the impact of heavy metal pollution across the Gippsland Lakes? Surficial grab and consolidated core sediment samples were collected over a period between 2015-2018 from thirteen defined locations across the Gippsland Lakes, representing the major geomorphological features of the area (e.g. major river mouths and lakes). Total metal analysis, sediment grain size, and XRF high-resolution core scanning provided insight into the overall distribution and possible risks of bulk and heavy metals present in the Gippsland Lakes sediment. Elevated concentrations of Cr, Ni, As, Cu, and Hg were found throughout the study area, exceeding the lower SQG trigger values across multiple depths and locations. Of the numerous metals initially investigated (Cr, Ni, Cu, As, Cd, Hg, and Pb) within the surface and core sediments, the findings of this study reiterated that the greatest concern was the degree of contamination and distribution of elevated levels of Hg in the western regions of the Gippsland Lakes. In addition, it highlighted the risks associated with elevated levels of Cr, Ni, and Cu. Cr and Ni have been identified at elevated levels throughout most of the western locations, Lake Victoria and Lake King, while isolated Cu is present at Paynesville. Further analysis into the metals and the interactions with the environment has defined three separate influences contributing to the elevated concentrations of heavy metals present across the study area, (i) Natural sources and cycling (Cr, Ni, and As): Concentrations of Cr, Ni, and As are likely a result of natural sources from the surrounding catchment, rather than a specific anthropogenically derived source. (i) Diffuse anthropogenic sources (Hg): The calculated pollution indices showed little to no natural influence on Hg concentrations; therefore, Hg concentrations were deemed highly likely a result of diffuse anthropogenic origin. (ii) Point source (Cu): Concentrations of Cu were generally very low throughout the study, except at a single location in an urbanised area adjacent to a commercial boatyard. This project has provided the most recent and comprehensive assessment of the presence, distribution, and leading influences on heavy metals present in the Gippsland Lakes, forming a strong foundation for informed management of the area into the future.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
Dr Fanny Reading : 'A clever little bird'
- Authors: Debney-Joyce, Jeanette
- Date: 2016
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: This thesis is the biographical study of the ‘transnational’ life of Dr. Fanny Reading (1884-1974). Dr Reading came to live in the Ballarat area c. 1888 when she was four years old. Originally she was born in Karelitz near Minsk, Russia as Zipporah Rubinovitch. The thesis tells the story of her transformation and also the story of her family members because they were a close-knit orthodox Jewish family. Reading’s biography is of a migrant woman who belonged to a persecuted minority group, and who through force of character rose above the challenging circumstances of her birth. It serves to redress the fact that historically she has been overlooked. It confirms that at a grassroots level she mobilised the Jewish women of Australia and was a significant Jewish leader. As a transnational figure of considerable stature, Reading’s biography contains themes of place, class, gender, ethnicity and diaspora that are woven throughout the thesis. It covers her early childhood and adolescence in Ballarat, then her move to Melbourne early in the twentieth century where she became involved in Jewish youth activities and taught Hebrew at the St Kilda Jewish Congregation. The family name was changed to Reading about 1919. Reading entered the University of Melbourne firstly to study music and then medicine (M.B., B.S.1922.) After graduation, she went into general practice with her eldest brother, who was also a doctor, in Sydney. Inspired by a Zionist emissary Bella Pevsner, Reading founded the Council of Jewish Women in 1923. This organisation became the National Council of Jewish Women in 1929. Reading had a keen interest in the health and education of women and girls, the Hebrew language and Israel. She was held in high regard in both the Jewish and non-Jewish communities and received an MBE in 1961.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Debney-Joyce, Jeanette
- Date: 2016
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: This thesis is the biographical study of the ‘transnational’ life of Dr. Fanny Reading (1884-1974). Dr Reading came to live in the Ballarat area c. 1888 when she was four years old. Originally she was born in Karelitz near Minsk, Russia as Zipporah Rubinovitch. The thesis tells the story of her transformation and also the story of her family members because they were a close-knit orthodox Jewish family. Reading’s biography is of a migrant woman who belonged to a persecuted minority group, and who through force of character rose above the challenging circumstances of her birth. It serves to redress the fact that historically she has been overlooked. It confirms that at a grassroots level she mobilised the Jewish women of Australia and was a significant Jewish leader. As a transnational figure of considerable stature, Reading’s biography contains themes of place, class, gender, ethnicity and diaspora that are woven throughout the thesis. It covers her early childhood and adolescence in Ballarat, then her move to Melbourne early in the twentieth century where she became involved in Jewish youth activities and taught Hebrew at the St Kilda Jewish Congregation. The family name was changed to Reading about 1919. Reading entered the University of Melbourne firstly to study music and then medicine (M.B., B.S.1922.) After graduation, she went into general practice with her eldest brother, who was also a doctor, in Sydney. Inspired by a Zionist emissary Bella Pevsner, Reading founded the Council of Jewish Women in 1923. This organisation became the National Council of Jewish Women in 1929. Reading had a keen interest in the health and education of women and girls, the Hebrew language and Israel. She was held in high regard in both the Jewish and non-Jewish communities and received an MBE in 1961.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
Dr James Stewart : Irish doctor and philanthropist on the Ballarat goldfields
- Authors: Cousen, Nicola
- Date: 2017
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: This thesis is the first in-depth biography of Dr James Stewart (1829-1906), an Ulster Presbyterian doctor who spent his prime years in Victoria between 1852 and 1869. It answers the question of who James Stewart was and why such an important actor in the history of Ballarat and colonial Victoria has been almost completely ignored by the historical record. The thesis explores the themes of identity and class by revealing the elements that shaped who Stewart was as well as his contributions to Ballarat and the colony through his medical work, civic duty, philanthropy and capitalist investment. Beginning with his early life in rural Ulster and medical education in Dublin, insight is provided into his emigration as a ship’s surgeon to the Ballarat goldfields in the context of the Irish diaspora. New light is thrown on the formative experience of ships’ surgeons and their role in the development of colonial medicine and civic duty; medical care available on the goldfields and during the events of the Eureka Stockade; and the professionalisation of medicine in colonial Victoria. In pursuing the biographical method advocated by Robert Rotberg, in the absence of personal records, it makes extensive use of newspapers and the archives of the institutions to which he contributed significantly. Interpretative and speculative methods are employed to carefully analyse his detailed will and obituaries. This study finds that Stewart’s flexible identity facilitated his involvement with a variety of community, class and social groups. Examination of his religious influences provides new understanding of Ulster Presbyterians and the Anglo-Irish in Victoria and challenges Patrick O’Farrell’s claim that the Anglo-Irish in Australia were right-wing conservatives. A major contributor to the development of Ballarat, a visionary and generous benefactor, James Stewart’s legacy continues to have an impact more than a century after his death.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Cousen, Nicola
- Date: 2017
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: This thesis is the first in-depth biography of Dr James Stewart (1829-1906), an Ulster Presbyterian doctor who spent his prime years in Victoria between 1852 and 1869. It answers the question of who James Stewart was and why such an important actor in the history of Ballarat and colonial Victoria has been almost completely ignored by the historical record. The thesis explores the themes of identity and class by revealing the elements that shaped who Stewart was as well as his contributions to Ballarat and the colony through his medical work, civic duty, philanthropy and capitalist investment. Beginning with his early life in rural Ulster and medical education in Dublin, insight is provided into his emigration as a ship’s surgeon to the Ballarat goldfields in the context of the Irish diaspora. New light is thrown on the formative experience of ships’ surgeons and their role in the development of colonial medicine and civic duty; medical care available on the goldfields and during the events of the Eureka Stockade; and the professionalisation of medicine in colonial Victoria. In pursuing the biographical method advocated by Robert Rotberg, in the absence of personal records, it makes extensive use of newspapers and the archives of the institutions to which he contributed significantly. Interpretative and speculative methods are employed to carefully analyse his detailed will and obituaries. This study finds that Stewart’s flexible identity facilitated his involvement with a variety of community, class and social groups. Examination of his religious influences provides new understanding of Ulster Presbyterians and the Anglo-Irish in Victoria and challenges Patrick O’Farrell’s claim that the Anglo-Irish in Australia were right-wing conservatives. A major contributor to the development of Ballarat, a visionary and generous benefactor, James Stewart’s legacy continues to have an impact more than a century after his death.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
DSM-IV AD/HD symptoms: Prevalence, gender and age differences, and construct validity of parent and teacher ratings of Malaysian children
- Authors: Hafetz, Nina
- Date: 2007
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (AD/HD) is marked by deficits in attention, hyperactivity and impulsivity (American Psychiatric Association, 1994). The current DSM-IV conceptualisation of AD/HD as comprising of separate, but related, Inattention (IA) and Hyperactivity/Impulsivity (H/I) dimensions have been supported in confirmatory factor analytic (CFA) studies. Despite being one of the most extensively studied childhood disorder, there is a lack of research on AD/HD in non-western populations. Research on AD/HD in Asian countries, particularly, is limited. To date, no study has comprehensively investigated the characteristics of AD/HD in a Malaysian sample. The current study had 4 major aims. The first aim of the study was to investigate how the IA and H/I symptoms groups vary by age, gender, and age by gender interaction. The second aim of the study was to obtain prevalence rates of DSM-IV AD/HD and the three subtypes (i.e., Predominantly Inattentive Type, AD/HD-IA; Predominantly Hyperactive/Impulsive Type, AD/HD-H/I; and Combined Type, AD/HD-C) within this population. This was examined for boys and girls separately, and together. The third aim of the study was to investigate the internal validity of DSM-IV AD/HD using single source confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), while the fourth aim of the study was to examine trait, source and error variance of the AD/HD symptoms using the CFA multitrait (IA and H/I) by multisource (parent and teacher) approach (CFA MT-MS). All the CFA and CFA MT-MS analyses were conducted separately for boys and girls and used scores recoded via the binary method, as opposed to the ordinal scoring method. The sample consisted of 934 Malaysian schoolchildren aged 6-12 years (436 boys: mean age 8.86 years; and 498 girls: mean age 9.02 years) [...] There was more source than trait variance for parent rated H/I and teacher rated IA for girls. Unique to the current study is the use of binary as opposed to ordinal data to run the CFA and MTMS analysis. The implications of the findings for the conceptualisation, assessment, treatment, psychometric properties of AD/HD rating scales and the recognition of AD/HD in the Malaysian population are discussed. Suggestions for future research are offered.
- Description: Doctor of Psychology (Clinical)
- Authors: Hafetz, Nina
- Date: 2007
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (AD/HD) is marked by deficits in attention, hyperactivity and impulsivity (American Psychiatric Association, 1994). The current DSM-IV conceptualisation of AD/HD as comprising of separate, but related, Inattention (IA) and Hyperactivity/Impulsivity (H/I) dimensions have been supported in confirmatory factor analytic (CFA) studies. Despite being one of the most extensively studied childhood disorder, there is a lack of research on AD/HD in non-western populations. Research on AD/HD in Asian countries, particularly, is limited. To date, no study has comprehensively investigated the characteristics of AD/HD in a Malaysian sample. The current study had 4 major aims. The first aim of the study was to investigate how the IA and H/I symptoms groups vary by age, gender, and age by gender interaction. The second aim of the study was to obtain prevalence rates of DSM-IV AD/HD and the three subtypes (i.e., Predominantly Inattentive Type, AD/HD-IA; Predominantly Hyperactive/Impulsive Type, AD/HD-H/I; and Combined Type, AD/HD-C) within this population. This was examined for boys and girls separately, and together. The third aim of the study was to investigate the internal validity of DSM-IV AD/HD using single source confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), while the fourth aim of the study was to examine trait, source and error variance of the AD/HD symptoms using the CFA multitrait (IA and H/I) by multisource (parent and teacher) approach (CFA MT-MS). All the CFA and CFA MT-MS analyses were conducted separately for boys and girls and used scores recoded via the binary method, as opposed to the ordinal scoring method. The sample consisted of 934 Malaysian schoolchildren aged 6-12 years (436 boys: mean age 8.86 years; and 498 girls: mean age 9.02 years) [...] There was more source than trait variance for parent rated H/I and teacher rated IA for girls. Unique to the current study is the use of binary as opposed to ordinal data to run the CFA and MTMS analysis. The implications of the findings for the conceptualisation, assessment, treatment, psychometric properties of AD/HD rating scales and the recognition of AD/HD in the Malaysian population are discussed. Suggestions for future research are offered.
- Description: Doctor of Psychology (Clinical)
Early intervention to reduce young peoples’ contact with the criminal justice system : local knowledge to inform practice
- Authors: Lancefield, Kay
- Date: 2021
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: The involvement of youth in justice systems generates high social and economic costs for individuals, their families and communities. Although Victorian crime statistics indicate a decline in youth offending there remains a subgroup who persist, resulting in adverse outcomes. Despite considerable scholarly attention on the factors that contribute to youth contact with justice systems, the application of this knowledge in some instances has failed to reduce such contact and deliver the desired outcomes. This thesis asserts that the factors relat ing to youth contact with justice systems are best understood within the theoretical frameworks of social ecological theory and developmental criminology. A social ecological perspective broadens the understanding of factors associated with youth contact with justice systems and potential intervention opportunities. It is argued that the integration of developmental criminology and social ecological theory within a place based framework will guide understanding and enh ance the efficacy of early intervention strategies. This thesis highlight s the need to consider multiple interacting factors, the value of incorporating developmental data to augment police records and the importance of implementing practice wisdom in the formulation and delivery of developmental prevention strategies. An individual’s exposure to adverse childhood experiences is demonstrated as a critical element associated with the risk of future offending. Findings relating to early contact with police as potentially protective and not necessarily predictive of an ongoing offending trajectory provide new insight. It is argued that a place based approach that incorporat es practice partnerships is critical to delivering effective prevention efforts. This research project was supported through a universityearch project was supported through a university––service system research service system research collaboration within the Inner Gippsland region of Victoria. The study has generated ‘local collaboration within the Inner Gippsland region of Victoria. The study has generated ‘local solutions to local problems’ and bridged the practicesolutions to local problems’ and bridged the practice––research gap research gap by generating by generating conceptualconceptually sound, evidencely sound, evidence--based interventions based interventions that are that are responsive to the Inner responsive to the Inner Gippsland community.Gippsland community.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Lancefield, Kay
- Date: 2021
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: The involvement of youth in justice systems generates high social and economic costs for individuals, their families and communities. Although Victorian crime statistics indicate a decline in youth offending there remains a subgroup who persist, resulting in adverse outcomes. Despite considerable scholarly attention on the factors that contribute to youth contact with justice systems, the application of this knowledge in some instances has failed to reduce such contact and deliver the desired outcomes. This thesis asserts that the factors relat ing to youth contact with justice systems are best understood within the theoretical frameworks of social ecological theory and developmental criminology. A social ecological perspective broadens the understanding of factors associated with youth contact with justice systems and potential intervention opportunities. It is argued that the integration of developmental criminology and social ecological theory within a place based framework will guide understanding and enh ance the efficacy of early intervention strategies. This thesis highlight s the need to consider multiple interacting factors, the value of incorporating developmental data to augment police records and the importance of implementing practice wisdom in the formulation and delivery of developmental prevention strategies. An individual’s exposure to adverse childhood experiences is demonstrated as a critical element associated with the risk of future offending. Findings relating to early contact with police as potentially protective and not necessarily predictive of an ongoing offending trajectory provide new insight. It is argued that a place based approach that incorporat es practice partnerships is critical to delivering effective prevention efforts. This research project was supported through a universityearch project was supported through a university––service system research service system research collaboration within the Inner Gippsland region of Victoria. The study has generated ‘local collaboration within the Inner Gippsland region of Victoria. The study has generated ‘local solutions to local problems’ and bridged the practicesolutions to local problems’ and bridged the practice––research gap research gap by generating by generating conceptualconceptually sound, evidencely sound, evidence--based interventions based interventions that are that are responsive to the Inner responsive to the Inner Gippsland community.Gippsland community.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
Ecological practice : Performance making in the age of the anthropocene
- Authors: Snowball, Georgia
- Date: 2017
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: The emerging field of Performance and Ecology addresses approaches to performance and performance making in response to the profound challenges heralded by the age of the Anthropocene. Transdisciplinary artist-scholars within this paradigm bring into question spatiotemporal relationships between all things, through varying artistic and scholarly practices. This practice-led-research project seeks to create work at the open intersections of the human and more-than-human, audience and performer, practice and research. The aim of the project is to disturb these binaries, which contribute to hierarchies of destruction of all multispecies beings and habitats, including humans. Through performance, this work addresses and critiques distinctive ways of being in, listening to, and viewing our shared world. The accompanying exegesis highlights how performance can reveal what otherwise remains hidden in this entangled process. The exegesis documents the development of site-specific performance works over three active modes: Walking, Dancing and Writing. These experiments in performance include both solo works and participatory projects. All works traverse these modes and are influenced by current international and Australian performance practices in site-specific Walking, Dancing and/or Writing. Three main projects are discussed through text, photograph and video. These are Promenade Locale a participatory walking project that took place in Central Victoria, Ends of the Earth and Instability, dance solos performed in Melaka, Malaysia and the practice of Weather Writing, which takes places at my home, also in Central Victoria.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Snowball, Georgia
- Date: 2017
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: The emerging field of Performance and Ecology addresses approaches to performance and performance making in response to the profound challenges heralded by the age of the Anthropocene. Transdisciplinary artist-scholars within this paradigm bring into question spatiotemporal relationships between all things, through varying artistic and scholarly practices. This practice-led-research project seeks to create work at the open intersections of the human and more-than-human, audience and performer, practice and research. The aim of the project is to disturb these binaries, which contribute to hierarchies of destruction of all multispecies beings and habitats, including humans. Through performance, this work addresses and critiques distinctive ways of being in, listening to, and viewing our shared world. The accompanying exegesis highlights how performance can reveal what otherwise remains hidden in this entangled process. The exegesis documents the development of site-specific performance works over three active modes: Walking, Dancing and Writing. These experiments in performance include both solo works and participatory projects. All works traverse these modes and are influenced by current international and Australian performance practices in site-specific Walking, Dancing and/or Writing. Three main projects are discussed through text, photograph and video. These are Promenade Locale a participatory walking project that took place in Central Victoria, Ends of the Earth and Instability, dance solos performed in Melaka, Malaysia and the practice of Weather Writing, which takes places at my home, also in Central Victoria.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy