Random finite element method prediction and optimisation for open pit mine slope stability analysis
- Authors: Dyson, Ashley
- Date: 2020
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Inherent soil variability can have significant effects on the stability of open-pit mine slopes. In practice, the spatial variability of materials is not commonly considered as a routine component of slope stability analysis. The process of quantifying spatially variable parameters, as well as the modelling of their behaviour is often a complex undertaking. Currently, there are no large-scale commercial software packages containing in-built methods for modelling spatial variability within the Finite Element environment. Furthermore, conventional Limit Equilibrium Methods (LEM) incorporating spatial variability are unable to consider the stress/strain characteristics of these materials. The following research seeks to accurately model the slope mechanics of spatially variable soils, adopting The Random Finite Element Method (RFEM) developed by Griffiths and Fenton (2004) to determine slope failure mechanisms and safety factors. Techniques are developed to produce a set of optimised Random Finite Element Method simulations using the Monte Carlo Method. Additionally, random field analysis techniques are investigated to compare and categorise soil parameter fluctuation, providing a direct relationship between random field properties and slope failure surfaces. Optimisation and analysis techniques are implemented to examine the effects of cross-sectional geometries and input parameter distributions on failure mechanisms, safety factors and probabilities of failure. Cross-sectional RFEM analysis is performed in the Finite Element Method (FEM) software package Abaqus, with the techniques of this research demonstrated for a large open-pit brown coal mine located in the state of Victoria, Australia. The outcome of this research is a comprehensive procedure for optimised RFEM simulation and analysis.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Dyson, Ashley
- Date: 2020
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Inherent soil variability can have significant effects on the stability of open-pit mine slopes. In practice, the spatial variability of materials is not commonly considered as a routine component of slope stability analysis. The process of quantifying spatially variable parameters, as well as the modelling of their behaviour is often a complex undertaking. Currently, there are no large-scale commercial software packages containing in-built methods for modelling spatial variability within the Finite Element environment. Furthermore, conventional Limit Equilibrium Methods (LEM) incorporating spatial variability are unable to consider the stress/strain characteristics of these materials. The following research seeks to accurately model the slope mechanics of spatially variable soils, adopting The Random Finite Element Method (RFEM) developed by Griffiths and Fenton (2004) to determine slope failure mechanisms and safety factors. Techniques are developed to produce a set of optimised Random Finite Element Method simulations using the Monte Carlo Method. Additionally, random field analysis techniques are investigated to compare and categorise soil parameter fluctuation, providing a direct relationship between random field properties and slope failure surfaces. Optimisation and analysis techniques are implemented to examine the effects of cross-sectional geometries and input parameter distributions on failure mechanisms, safety factors and probabilities of failure. Cross-sectional RFEM analysis is performed in the Finite Element Method (FEM) software package Abaqus, with the techniques of this research demonstrated for a large open-pit brown coal mine located in the state of Victoria, Australia. The outcome of this research is a comprehensive procedure for optimised RFEM simulation and analysis.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
Mathematical models of dynamic reconfiguration of telecommunication networks
- Authors: Dzalilov, Zari
- Date: 2004
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: In this thesis we examine mathematical models for dynamical reconfiguration of telecommunication networks. Dynamical configuration is one of the most important problems in the field of network management. In the case of some part of the network being damaged the system should maintain its operations, taking into account the new conditions. This can be achieved by using the residual capacity of the system if it is available. If there were not enough residual capacity, the managers of the system need to involve some of the unaffected traffic in order to reorganize traffic. A prolonged breakdown will push some customers to change their provider; there is also a lost [sic] of profit because of breakdowns, that can be considered as a certain implicit penalty. To reorganize traffic by using new routes we should have a flexible routing system.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Dzalilov, Zari
- Date: 2004
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: In this thesis we examine mathematical models for dynamical reconfiguration of telecommunication networks. Dynamical configuration is one of the most important problems in the field of network management. In the case of some part of the network being damaged the system should maintain its operations, taking into account the new conditions. This can be achieved by using the residual capacity of the system if it is available. If there were not enough residual capacity, the managers of the system need to involve some of the unaffected traffic in order to reorganize traffic. A prolonged breakdown will push some customers to change their provider; there is also a lost [sic] of profit because of breakdowns, that can be considered as a certain implicit penalty. To reorganize traffic by using new routes we should have a flexible routing system.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
Harvesting stormwater : Testing the paradigm by assessing the impacts with an inter-disciplinary case study
- Authors: Ebbs, David
- Date: 2019
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Integrated Urban Water Management (IUWM) is often proposed as a framework for comprehensively managing the water cycle in urban areas. One of the tenets of IUWM is that, due to increased impervious area, stormwater runoff in excess of the natural flow could be captured and used to supplement the water supply, while mitigating the environmental impact. This thesis tests that theory through an inter-disciplinary case study utilising legacy data for the regional city of Ballarat, Australia. The case study approach has enabled the water balance of an urbanised catchment to be better understood in various ways and provided for five tightly nested research projects, being: 1. Does the long-term development of water management within a city provide insight into what drives decisions, therefore informing future progress? 2. Can the drivers of water use be adequately determined from a community wide, historical analysis such that future regulatory decisions can be informed? 3. Will assessment of the long-term streamflow of a river, combined with an urban water balance of the catchment, enable the identification of additional stormwater flow due to urbanisation, in excess of the natural flow? 4. Can the impact of urbanisation on groundwater be identified (i.e. trends quantified or qualified) from the city’s legacy data or any available data sources, or models? 5. Is it possible to establish a comparative analysis technique that accounts for the uncertainty of information which changes over time, maintains intellectual rigour and is understandable and easily presented? IUWM was found, perhaps unsurprisingly, to be a complex problem with the challenges being very contextual on the particular catchment and city being studied. This research revealed that evidence of greater volumes of water being generated from increasingly urbanised impervious catchments is not easy to find. This finding may challenge conventional thinking and means that decisions on stormwater harvesting and WSUD practices more broadly should first be informed by evidence of the water balance. This research also revealed some very significant challenges in the water industry with finding and effectively using very dispersed data sets which are held and managed across multiple water agencies in various digital and hard copy formats. Information and data availability is critical to all aspects of IUWM, including in the measurement of its success, and so this research reminds the water industry of the importance of its data management practices.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Ebbs, David
- Date: 2019
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Integrated Urban Water Management (IUWM) is often proposed as a framework for comprehensively managing the water cycle in urban areas. One of the tenets of IUWM is that, due to increased impervious area, stormwater runoff in excess of the natural flow could be captured and used to supplement the water supply, while mitigating the environmental impact. This thesis tests that theory through an inter-disciplinary case study utilising legacy data for the regional city of Ballarat, Australia. The case study approach has enabled the water balance of an urbanised catchment to be better understood in various ways and provided for five tightly nested research projects, being: 1. Does the long-term development of water management within a city provide insight into what drives decisions, therefore informing future progress? 2. Can the drivers of water use be adequately determined from a community wide, historical analysis such that future regulatory decisions can be informed? 3. Will assessment of the long-term streamflow of a river, combined with an urban water balance of the catchment, enable the identification of additional stormwater flow due to urbanisation, in excess of the natural flow? 4. Can the impact of urbanisation on groundwater be identified (i.e. trends quantified or qualified) from the city’s legacy data or any available data sources, or models? 5. Is it possible to establish a comparative analysis technique that accounts for the uncertainty of information which changes over time, maintains intellectual rigour and is understandable and easily presented? IUWM was found, perhaps unsurprisingly, to be a complex problem with the challenges being very contextual on the particular catchment and city being studied. This research revealed that evidence of greater volumes of water being generated from increasingly urbanised impervious catchments is not easy to find. This finding may challenge conventional thinking and means that decisions on stormwater harvesting and WSUD practices more broadly should first be informed by evidence of the water balance. This research also revealed some very significant challenges in the water industry with finding and effectively using very dispersed data sets which are held and managed across multiple water agencies in various digital and hard copy formats. Information and data availability is critical to all aspects of IUWM, including in the measurement of its success, and so this research reminds the water industry of the importance of its data management practices.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
'You Beauty' Alex Jesaulenko An historical exploration of the migrant who became a legend
- Authors: Eddy, Daniel
- Date: 2019
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text: false
- Description: The Austrian-born Alex Jesaulenko played football in the Victorian Football League (VFL) from 1967 to 1981. His rise to national prominence emerged during a period of great change within both Australian society and Australian rules football. This thesis, through a critical biographical approach, examines for the first time Jesaulenko’s early life, looking at his migrant experience and the role that Australian rules football played in aiding his integration into Australian society. It is not a kick-and-handball analysis of Jesaulenko’s entire football career; that has been extensively covered within copious amounts of primary and secondary sources. Instead, it explores his migrant journey – an important aspect of Jesaulenko’s life which has been largely overlooked – and the key developmental years of sporting education prior to emerging as a VFL champion. It concludes with one of, if not the most, iconic moments in the game’s history: Jesaulenko’s mark in the 1970 VFL grand final, which cemented his name within the Australian sporting consciousness. Australian rules football, and sport more generally, holds a unique place within society. Footballers, it can be argued, are archetypes for our daily dreams and aspirations; exalted figures that we afford status which few will experience in their everyday lives. Therefore, it is through the prism of Jesaulenko’s journey that we can learn more about the role Australian rules football has played for migrants integrating into Australian society.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
Multiculturalism : (re) intellectualising teaching
- Authors: Edmonds, George
- Date: 2007
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Doctor of Philosphy
- Authors: Edmonds, George
- Date: 2007
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Doctor of Philosphy
- Authors: Edwards, Britt
- Date: 2011
- Type: Text , Thesis
- Full Text: false
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
The cultural interactions of Aborigines with Whales, Whalers and Whaling in southwest Victoria 1828-1850
- Authors: Eldridge, Richard
- Date: 2015
- Type: Text , Thesis , Masters
- Full Text:
- Description: The primary aim of this thesis is to reconstruct the history of Aboriginal cultural associations with whales and whaling in southwest Victoria in the nineteenth century. Despite there being a considerable corpus of information about Aboriginal peoples and whaling in southeast South Australia and southern New South Wales, there is a relative poverty of information on southwest Victoria. One of the primary objectives of this thesis is to offer explanations for this absence of information. Through an analysis of the Convincing Ground massacre that is believed to have taken place in the early period of whaling at Portland Bay, it will be argued that the violence characterised by this event fundamentally transformed race relations at Portland to such an extent that Aboriginal people avoided interaction with whalers. The rationale for this research is twofold: first to contribute to the history of frontier relations in Victoria; second, to reconstruct from archival sources the cultural and economic associations between Victorian Aboriginal people and whalers.
- Description: Master of Business (Research)
- Authors: Eldridge, Richard
- Date: 2015
- Type: Text , Thesis , Masters
- Full Text:
- Description: The primary aim of this thesis is to reconstruct the history of Aboriginal cultural associations with whales and whaling in southwest Victoria in the nineteenth century. Despite there being a considerable corpus of information about Aboriginal peoples and whaling in southeast South Australia and southern New South Wales, there is a relative poverty of information on southwest Victoria. One of the primary objectives of this thesis is to offer explanations for this absence of information. Through an analysis of the Convincing Ground massacre that is believed to have taken place in the early period of whaling at Portland Bay, it will be argued that the violence characterised by this event fundamentally transformed race relations at Portland to such an extent that Aboriginal people avoided interaction with whalers. The rationale for this research is twofold: first to contribute to the history of frontier relations in Victoria; second, to reconstruct from archival sources the cultural and economic associations between Victorian Aboriginal people and whalers.
- Description: Master of Business (Research)
Implementing inclusion : classroom journeys
- Authors: Elvey, Moya
- Date: 2020
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: This study interrogates the professional experiences, attitudes and pedagogical choices of eight classroom teachers in regular schools and inquires into their impact on the development of inclusive teaching practices. Approached from the perspective of an experienced teaching practitioner, the study responds to the call for an increased focus on the role of classroom teachers in implementing inclusion in schools. The study is underpinned by a theoretical stance that promotes the value of inclusive education through a human rights, access and equity framework. It advocates for the importance of overcoming the discriminatory practices that marginalise some students. Consistent with a qualitative, ethnographic methodology, observations and interviews with practicing teachers provide insights into the factors that encourage, and sometimes discourage, the enactment of inclusive pedagogies. The literature on inclusive education provides guidance throughout the data collection and analysis process. This includes frameworks designed by other researchers that outline and define inclusive teaching strategies. The study exposes the pivotal role that ongoing teacher professional learning, along with strategic guidance and support from colleagues and school leaders, plays in enhancing teacher capacity and positive attitudes towards student diversity. It also uncovers evidence that when medical reports and pressure from ‘others’ such as health professionals, encourage teachers to focus on student ‘deficits’ and ‘problems’, they are more likely to seek out and adopt strategies that marginalise and set some students apart from their peers. A fundamental finding of this study is that when teachers and their school leaders focus on developing understanding about ‘effective’ pedagogies - on quality education for all - responsive, inclusive, student-centred teaching approaches often become embedded in their everyday classroom practice.
- Description: PhD
- Authors: Elvey, Moya
- Date: 2020
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: This study interrogates the professional experiences, attitudes and pedagogical choices of eight classroom teachers in regular schools and inquires into their impact on the development of inclusive teaching practices. Approached from the perspective of an experienced teaching practitioner, the study responds to the call for an increased focus on the role of classroom teachers in implementing inclusion in schools. The study is underpinned by a theoretical stance that promotes the value of inclusive education through a human rights, access and equity framework. It advocates for the importance of overcoming the discriminatory practices that marginalise some students. Consistent with a qualitative, ethnographic methodology, observations and interviews with practicing teachers provide insights into the factors that encourage, and sometimes discourage, the enactment of inclusive pedagogies. The literature on inclusive education provides guidance throughout the data collection and analysis process. This includes frameworks designed by other researchers that outline and define inclusive teaching strategies. The study exposes the pivotal role that ongoing teacher professional learning, along with strategic guidance and support from colleagues and school leaders, plays in enhancing teacher capacity and positive attitudes towards student diversity. It also uncovers evidence that when medical reports and pressure from ‘others’ such as health professionals, encourage teachers to focus on student ‘deficits’ and ‘problems’, they are more likely to seek out and adopt strategies that marginalise and set some students apart from their peers. A fundamental finding of this study is that when teachers and their school leaders focus on developing understanding about ‘effective’ pedagogies - on quality education for all - responsive, inclusive, student-centred teaching approaches often become embedded in their everyday classroom practice.
- Description: PhD
Neurotrophic biomarker change after physical activity and mindfulness interventions
- Authors: England, Gina
- Date: 2017
- Type: Text , Thesis , Masters
- Full Text:
- Description: BACKGROUND AND AIM AND HYPOTHESIS: BDNF, FGF2 and NGF are neurotrophins associated with neuroplasticity, nervous system development and psychiatric disorder in the literature. BDNF in particular is suggested as a useful biomarker of mood disorder. Both mindfulness and physical activity are shown to improve mood, reduce stress and are widely used as part of a multi-component treatment approach, reducing distressing symptoms of mood and affect disorders. The utility of protein level as a biomarker has been controversial in the literature following issues concerning the assessment of peripheral levels as a proxy for central levels. The principal aim of this study was to investigate the gene expression of three neurotrophins BDNF, FGF2 and NGF as potential biomarkers of mood disorder, at an early stage of these disorders, which are now widely recognised as having pathogenesis related to dysregulation in the neuro-immuno-endocrine axis. In addition, the study will explore the effect of both physical activity and mindfulness on neurotrophin expression clarifying the associations between the success of these interventions seen in the literature and their effect on the change of neurotrophin expression. Current literature reports increased levels of BDNF protein both centrally and peripherally following mood disorder treatment and participation in both physical exercise and mindfulness activities. Based on similarity of structure and function amongst the three neurotrophins, this thesis will hypothesize an increase in BDNF and potentially FGF2 and NGF mRNA following participation in the two interventional modules designed to improve wellbeing in clinical and non-clinical communities. METHOD: In this independent measures design, 28 non-clinical volunteers were randomly allocated to an 8 week intervention, comprising digital health tracking modules and participation in an unstructured increase in Physical Activity or Mindfulness program, to assess the effect of these interventions on levels of mRNA expression. RTqPCR was used to compare relative mRNA abundance in peripheral blood at baseline and 8 week time interval. The control group were allocated to a waitlist for the period of the 8 week study, followed by access to the program of their choice. Change in emotional state was measured using the DASS. RESULT: BDNF expression is shown significantly increased (p 0.01, n=5) in the Physical Activity group, and significantly decreased in the Mindfulness group (p 0.01, n=11). FGF2 and waitlisted controls showed no significant change. In the case of NGF no expression was seen in human peripheral blood either before or after the intervention. DASS scores revealed a significant decrease in negative affect in the Mindfulness group p = 0.03. CONCLUSION: This study revealed a significant positive association between physical activity and BDNF mRNA, although no significant reduction in distressing mood symptoms was shown. This was potentially due to the small group size. Mindfulness was significantly associated with decreasing negative affect, despite an unexpected decrease in BDNF mRNA consistent with pathophysiology of depression, likely related to neuro-immunoendocrine axis disturbance as suggested in the published literature. It is suggested decreasing mRNA levels reflect lower numbers of immune activated leucocytes present in the blood following mood improvement, albeit not verified in the study. This study suggests even in a small non-clinical sample there may be potential benefits to well-being by increasing levels of physical activity or becoming mindful, and that BDNF has potential as a biomarker of emotional state.
- Description: Masters by Research
- Authors: England, Gina
- Date: 2017
- Type: Text , Thesis , Masters
- Full Text:
- Description: BACKGROUND AND AIM AND HYPOTHESIS: BDNF, FGF2 and NGF are neurotrophins associated with neuroplasticity, nervous system development and psychiatric disorder in the literature. BDNF in particular is suggested as a useful biomarker of mood disorder. Both mindfulness and physical activity are shown to improve mood, reduce stress and are widely used as part of a multi-component treatment approach, reducing distressing symptoms of mood and affect disorders. The utility of protein level as a biomarker has been controversial in the literature following issues concerning the assessment of peripheral levels as a proxy for central levels. The principal aim of this study was to investigate the gene expression of three neurotrophins BDNF, FGF2 and NGF as potential biomarkers of mood disorder, at an early stage of these disorders, which are now widely recognised as having pathogenesis related to dysregulation in the neuro-immuno-endocrine axis. In addition, the study will explore the effect of both physical activity and mindfulness on neurotrophin expression clarifying the associations between the success of these interventions seen in the literature and their effect on the change of neurotrophin expression. Current literature reports increased levels of BDNF protein both centrally and peripherally following mood disorder treatment and participation in both physical exercise and mindfulness activities. Based on similarity of structure and function amongst the three neurotrophins, this thesis will hypothesize an increase in BDNF and potentially FGF2 and NGF mRNA following participation in the two interventional modules designed to improve wellbeing in clinical and non-clinical communities. METHOD: In this independent measures design, 28 non-clinical volunteers were randomly allocated to an 8 week intervention, comprising digital health tracking modules and participation in an unstructured increase in Physical Activity or Mindfulness program, to assess the effect of these interventions on levels of mRNA expression. RTqPCR was used to compare relative mRNA abundance in peripheral blood at baseline and 8 week time interval. The control group were allocated to a waitlist for the period of the 8 week study, followed by access to the program of their choice. Change in emotional state was measured using the DASS. RESULT: BDNF expression is shown significantly increased (p 0.01, n=5) in the Physical Activity group, and significantly decreased in the Mindfulness group (p 0.01, n=11). FGF2 and waitlisted controls showed no significant change. In the case of NGF no expression was seen in human peripheral blood either before or after the intervention. DASS scores revealed a significant decrease in negative affect in the Mindfulness group p = 0.03. CONCLUSION: This study revealed a significant positive association between physical activity and BDNF mRNA, although no significant reduction in distressing mood symptoms was shown. This was potentially due to the small group size. Mindfulness was significantly associated with decreasing negative affect, despite an unexpected decrease in BDNF mRNA consistent with pathophysiology of depression, likely related to neuro-immunoendocrine axis disturbance as suggested in the published literature. It is suggested decreasing mRNA levels reflect lower numbers of immune activated leucocytes present in the blood following mood improvement, albeit not verified in the study. This study suggests even in a small non-clinical sample there may be potential benefits to well-being by increasing levels of physical activity or becoming mindful, and that BDNF has potential as a biomarker of emotional state.
- Description: Masters by Research
Co-encapsulation of Omega-3 fatty acids and probiotic bacteria through complex coacervation
- Authors: Eratte, Divya
- Date: 2016
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: The research described in this thesis investigated the microencapsulation of omega-3 oil and probiotic bacteria together in a protein-polysaccharide complex coacervate matrix. The synergistic or competitive interactions between the probiotic bacteria and omega-3 fatty acids when packaged in a single microcapsule was determined including how best to utilise such interaction to achieve improved oxidative stability of omega-3 fatty acid and better survival of the probiotic bacteria. Encapsulation and co-encapsulation of tuna oil (O) and Lactobacillus casei 431 (P) as models of omega-3 and probiotic bacteria, respectively, were carried out and the works is described in this thesis in five distinct sections. (1) The optimisation of the complex coacervation process between whey protein isolate (WPI) and gum Arabic (GA). (2) Microencapsulation of tuna oil (O) in WPI-GA complex coacervates followed by spray and freeze drying to produce microcapsules (WPI-O-GA). (3) Microencapsulation of probiotic bacteria L. casei 431 (P) in WPI-GA complex coacervates followed by spray and freeze drying to produce microcapsules (WPI-P-GA). (4) Co-encapsulation of omega-3 oil and L. casei 431 together in WPI-GA coacervate matrix followed by spray and freeze drying to produce co-microcapsules (WPI-P-O-GA). (5) In-vitro digestion evaluation of co-microcapsules and microcapsules to indicate bioavailability. The viability of L. casei was significantly higher in WPI-P-O-GA co-microcapsules than in WPI-P-GA microcapsules in both spray and freeze dried microcapsules. The oxidative stability of tuna oil was significantly higher in spray dried co-capsules. Also, co-microencapsulation increased the survivability of L. casei during simulated digestion. There was no significant influence observed on the release properties of omega-3 oil due to co-microencapsulation. However, the total omega-3 fatty acids in the released oil during in-vitro digestion were found to be higher, when co-microencapsulated. Hence, co-microencapsulation was shown to protect the L. casei and deliver both viable cells and omega-3 oil to human intestine without any significant adverse effect on their functionality and properties.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Eratte, Divya
- Date: 2016
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: The research described in this thesis investigated the microencapsulation of omega-3 oil and probiotic bacteria together in a protein-polysaccharide complex coacervate matrix. The synergistic or competitive interactions between the probiotic bacteria and omega-3 fatty acids when packaged in a single microcapsule was determined including how best to utilise such interaction to achieve improved oxidative stability of omega-3 fatty acid and better survival of the probiotic bacteria. Encapsulation and co-encapsulation of tuna oil (O) and Lactobacillus casei 431 (P) as models of omega-3 and probiotic bacteria, respectively, were carried out and the works is described in this thesis in five distinct sections. (1) The optimisation of the complex coacervation process between whey protein isolate (WPI) and gum Arabic (GA). (2) Microencapsulation of tuna oil (O) in WPI-GA complex coacervates followed by spray and freeze drying to produce microcapsules (WPI-O-GA). (3) Microencapsulation of probiotic bacteria L. casei 431 (P) in WPI-GA complex coacervates followed by spray and freeze drying to produce microcapsules (WPI-P-GA). (4) Co-encapsulation of omega-3 oil and L. casei 431 together in WPI-GA coacervate matrix followed by spray and freeze drying to produce co-microcapsules (WPI-P-O-GA). (5) In-vitro digestion evaluation of co-microcapsules and microcapsules to indicate bioavailability. The viability of L. casei was significantly higher in WPI-P-O-GA co-microcapsules than in WPI-P-GA microcapsules in both spray and freeze dried microcapsules. The oxidative stability of tuna oil was significantly higher in spray dried co-capsules. Also, co-microencapsulation increased the survivability of L. casei during simulated digestion. There was no significant influence observed on the release properties of omega-3 oil due to co-microencapsulation. However, the total omega-3 fatty acids in the released oil during in-vitro digestion were found to be higher, when co-microencapsulated. Hence, co-microencapsulation was shown to protect the L. casei and deliver both viable cells and omega-3 oil to human intestine without any significant adverse effect on their functionality and properties.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
Exploring the development of thinking in senior secondary mathematics : a focus on probability
- Authors: Ernst, Heather
- Date: 2021
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Higher order thinking skills have been identified as desirable although elusive outcomes of many educational curricula. Through a qualitative case study, the alignment between the three levels of the curriculum: intended, implemented, and attained, was examined to determine the tensions and possibilities in the development of mathematical and thinking skills in senior secondary students in Gippsland, a large regional area of Victoria, Australia. Probability was the mathematical content area of focus. Data from document analysis of the intended curriculum, textbooks as the implemented curriculum, and assessments as the attained curriculum, was combined with qualitative data from semi-structured interviews with twenty students and fourteen senior secondary mathematics teachers. These diverse data sources scaffolded each other to identify tensions and possibilities influencing development of student thinking in senior secondary mathematics. This research demonstrated that the flow of content via the intended-implemented-attained curriculum was not adequate to describe all the influences on student learning. The lens of Activity Theory (Engeström, 2001) came closer to capturing the related complexities whereby the textbooks, calculators, bound reference books and assessments, combined with the balance of agency demonstrated by the teachers and students, were found to both support and cause tensions within the activity system. Probability was found to be a valuable topic to study in relation to the development of thinking skills due to its relevance in decision making, how it linked many areas of mathematics and the uniqueness of the classic, experimental, and subjective views of probability. This study is significant in the contribution it makes to understanding the tensions and possibilities associated with the development of mathematical thinking relating to probability through the lens of Activity Theory. While the intended curriculum encouraged a range of thinking skills, this intended curriculum could be implemented in a way that promotes memorisation rather than the intended higher order thinking. This study concludes with recommendations for the curriculum designers, textbook publishers, teachers, and students which may support the development of mathematical and thinking skills.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Ernst, Heather
- Date: 2021
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Higher order thinking skills have been identified as desirable although elusive outcomes of many educational curricula. Through a qualitative case study, the alignment between the three levels of the curriculum: intended, implemented, and attained, was examined to determine the tensions and possibilities in the development of mathematical and thinking skills in senior secondary students in Gippsland, a large regional area of Victoria, Australia. Probability was the mathematical content area of focus. Data from document analysis of the intended curriculum, textbooks as the implemented curriculum, and assessments as the attained curriculum, was combined with qualitative data from semi-structured interviews with twenty students and fourteen senior secondary mathematics teachers. These diverse data sources scaffolded each other to identify tensions and possibilities influencing development of student thinking in senior secondary mathematics. This research demonstrated that the flow of content via the intended-implemented-attained curriculum was not adequate to describe all the influences on student learning. The lens of Activity Theory (Engeström, 2001) came closer to capturing the related complexities whereby the textbooks, calculators, bound reference books and assessments, combined with the balance of agency demonstrated by the teachers and students, were found to both support and cause tensions within the activity system. Probability was found to be a valuable topic to study in relation to the development of thinking skills due to its relevance in decision making, how it linked many areas of mathematics and the uniqueness of the classic, experimental, and subjective views of probability. This study is significant in the contribution it makes to understanding the tensions and possibilities associated with the development of mathematical thinking relating to probability through the lens of Activity Theory. While the intended curriculum encouraged a range of thinking skills, this intended curriculum could be implemented in a way that promotes memorisation rather than the intended higher order thinking. This study concludes with recommendations for the curriculum designers, textbook publishers, teachers, and students which may support the development of mathematical and thinking skills.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
A cost analysis of accidents and injuries in the open cut coalmining industry
- Authors: Esson, Ken
- Date: 1992
- Type: Text , Thesis , Masters
- Full Text: false
- Description: Following a study of back injuries in the Queensland Coal Industry, there arose several questions that needed further research. One of these was the cost of accident and injuries, and the impact of this cost would have on an organisation. The project's research involved a comprehensive study of literature pertaining to the cost of accidents and injuries. This included both insured and uninsured costs. The following four classifications of accidents were researched; first aid treatments; first aid doctor treatments; lost time injury cases; and equipment accident damage cases. A coal mine was selected for the pilot study and, data was collected on the four classifications over a complete year. This means a year that has no out standing accident cases or liablilities. The research was then considered to determine its support for the acceptance or rejection of the hypothesis whic postulates that the current methods used to analyse the cost of accidents or injuries in the coal mining industry are inadequate. As a result of the above condsiderations, a number of key points are put forward in support of the acceptance of the hypothesis. The research established costs both insured and uninsured for the four classifications under review. Then a calculation of a weighted ratio of uninsured costs was made. The paper concludes by making certain recommendations and supporting the need for further research into accident costing within the coal mining fraternity.
- Description: Masters in Applied Science in Occupational Health and Safety
- Authors: Esson, Ken
- Date: 1992
- Type: Text , Thesis , Masters
- Full Text: false
- Description: Following a study of back injuries in the Queensland Coal Industry, there arose several questions that needed further research. One of these was the cost of accident and injuries, and the impact of this cost would have on an organisation. The project's research involved a comprehensive study of literature pertaining to the cost of accidents and injuries. This included both insured and uninsured costs. The following four classifications of accidents were researched; first aid treatments; first aid doctor treatments; lost time injury cases; and equipment accident damage cases. A coal mine was selected for the pilot study and, data was collected on the four classifications over a complete year. This means a year that has no out standing accident cases or liablilities. The research was then considered to determine its support for the acceptance or rejection of the hypothesis whic postulates that the current methods used to analyse the cost of accidents or injuries in the coal mining industry are inadequate. As a result of the above condsiderations, a number of key points are put forward in support of the acceptance of the hypothesis. The research established costs both insured and uninsured for the four classifications under review. Then a calculation of a weighted ratio of uninsured costs was made. The paper concludes by making certain recommendations and supporting the need for further research into accident costing within the coal mining fraternity.
- Description: Masters in Applied Science in Occupational Health and Safety
Raw politics : politics without the State
- Authors: Eyssens, Terry
- Date: 2011
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: "... the thesis examines traditional anarchist theorisations of 'politics without the state' and finds them to be as contained by the State and its founding concepts as the political liberalism of our present. All that remains to be salvaged from anarchist thought is the idea expressed in its name: that is, to be 'without rulers'. In order to escape such conceptual containment, Raw politics aims to produce a 'stripped-down' conceptualisation of politics." - Abstract.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Eyssens, Terry
- Date: 2011
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: "... the thesis examines traditional anarchist theorisations of 'politics without the state' and finds them to be as contained by the State and its founding concepts as the political liberalism of our present. All that remains to be salvaged from anarchist thought is the idea expressed in its name: that is, to be 'without rulers'. In order to escape such conceptual containment, Raw politics aims to produce a 'stripped-down' conceptualisation of politics." - Abstract.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
Reliability-based design optimisation methods in large scale systems
- Authors: Ezzati, Ghasem
- Date: 2015
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Description: Structural optimisation is an important field of applied mathematics, which has proved useful in engineering projects. Reliability-based design optimisation (RBDO) can be considered a branch of structural optimisation. Different RBDO approaches have been applied in real world problems (e.g. vehicle side impact model, short column design, etc.). Double-loop, single-loop, and decoupled approaches are three categories in RBDO. This research focuses on double-loop approaches, which consider reliability analysis problems in their inner loops and design optimisation calculations in their outer loops. In recent decades, double-loop approaches have been studied and modified in order to improve their stability and efficiency, but many shortcomings still remain, particularly regarding reliability analysis methods. This thesis will concentrate on development of new reliability analysis methods that can be applied to solve RBDO problems. As a local optimisation algorithm, the conjugate gradient method will be adopted. Furthermore, a new method will be introduced to solve a reliability analysis problem in the polar space. The reliability analysis problem must be transformed into an unconstrained optimisation problem before solving in the polar space. Two methods will be introduced here and their stability and efficiency will be compared with the existing methods via numerical experiments. Next, we consider applications of RBDO models to electricity networks. Most of the current optimisation models of these networks are categorised as deterministic design optimisation models. A probabilistic constraint is introduced in this thesis for electricity networks. For this purpose, a performance function must be defined for a network in order to define safety and failure conditions. Then, new non-deterministic design optimisation models will be formulated for electricity networks by using the mentioned probabilistic constraint. These models are designed to keep failure probability of the network below a predetermined and accepted safety level.
- Authors: Ezzati, Ghasem
- Date: 2015
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Description: Structural optimisation is an important field of applied mathematics, which has proved useful in engineering projects. Reliability-based design optimisation (RBDO) can be considered a branch of structural optimisation. Different RBDO approaches have been applied in real world problems (e.g. vehicle side impact model, short column design, etc.). Double-loop, single-loop, and decoupled approaches are three categories in RBDO. This research focuses on double-loop approaches, which consider reliability analysis problems in their inner loops and design optimisation calculations in their outer loops. In recent decades, double-loop approaches have been studied and modified in order to improve their stability and efficiency, but many shortcomings still remain, particularly regarding reliability analysis methods. This thesis will concentrate on development of new reliability analysis methods that can be applied to solve RBDO problems. As a local optimisation algorithm, the conjugate gradient method will be adopted. Furthermore, a new method will be introduced to solve a reliability analysis problem in the polar space. The reliability analysis problem must be transformed into an unconstrained optimisation problem before solving in the polar space. Two methods will be introduced here and their stability and efficiency will be compared with the existing methods via numerical experiments. Next, we consider applications of RBDO models to electricity networks. Most of the current optimisation models of these networks are categorised as deterministic design optimisation models. A probabilistic constraint is introduced in this thesis for electricity networks. For this purpose, a performance function must be defined for a network in order to define safety and failure conditions. Then, new non-deterministic design optimisation models will be formulated for electricity networks by using the mentioned probabilistic constraint. These models are designed to keep failure probability of the network below a predetermined and accepted safety level.
The making and placing of a personal view : Questions of place
- Authors: Farago, Anna
- Date: 2019
- Type: Text , Thesis , Masters
- Full Text:
- Description: The Making and Placing of a Personal View: Questions of Place uses various making methods to explore both the artist’s and others personal connection to place. The research investigates the intersection of memory, identity, and place. Memory is what informs personal history and collective futures. Identity, for the artist is as daughter, sister, mother, wife, friend, crafter, artist, woman and now widow. For others involved in the research, it is as Indigenous Elders, rangers and locals connected to specific sites. Place as which grounds and locates memories and landscapes that preoccupy the creative works. Memory and identity is explored materially through making, connecting art to place using craft’s historical connection with domestic and natural environments. Using the postmodern feminist geography of Doreen Massey, place is a site of flow and routes, rather than origins and roots. The relation between art and Massey’s notion of place is investigated as sympathetic to craft as a feminine epistemology. The creative work created comprises of four large textile patchworks, a series of small embroideries, and a pair of gouache paintings. The making of three large patchwork banner works were informed by conversational interviews conducted with Indigenous and non-Indigenous rangers. The banner works were installed for the duration of a weekend in Darebin Parklands in Alphington, Victoria in 2016 and at Pigeon House Mountain Didthul, Morton National Park, NSW in 2017. Performative and documentation photographs and videos were created in response to these installations. In addition a hand-stitched patchwork was slowly constructed over a year of grief and then used as a cloak and protective cloth in directed performative photos shot in the garden and on the roof of the artist’s home.
- Description: Masters by Research
- Authors: Farago, Anna
- Date: 2019
- Type: Text , Thesis , Masters
- Full Text:
- Description: The Making and Placing of a Personal View: Questions of Place uses various making methods to explore both the artist’s and others personal connection to place. The research investigates the intersection of memory, identity, and place. Memory is what informs personal history and collective futures. Identity, for the artist is as daughter, sister, mother, wife, friend, crafter, artist, woman and now widow. For others involved in the research, it is as Indigenous Elders, rangers and locals connected to specific sites. Place as which grounds and locates memories and landscapes that preoccupy the creative works. Memory and identity is explored materially through making, connecting art to place using craft’s historical connection with domestic and natural environments. Using the postmodern feminist geography of Doreen Massey, place is a site of flow and routes, rather than origins and roots. The relation between art and Massey’s notion of place is investigated as sympathetic to craft as a feminine epistemology. The creative work created comprises of four large textile patchworks, a series of small embroideries, and a pair of gouache paintings. The making of three large patchwork banner works were informed by conversational interviews conducted with Indigenous and non-Indigenous rangers. The banner works were installed for the duration of a weekend in Darebin Parklands in Alphington, Victoria in 2016 and at Pigeon House Mountain Didthul, Morton National Park, NSW in 2017. Performative and documentation photographs and videos were created in response to these installations. In addition a hand-stitched patchwork was slowly constructed over a year of grief and then used as a cloak and protective cloth in directed performative photos shot in the garden and on the roof of the artist’s home.
- Description: Masters by Research
Young mothers: Discursive constructions of their lives and identities
- Authors: Felstead, Karen
- Date: 2020
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: The notion that early motherhood is a significant problem for society is widely documented in the academic literature, and there is a complicated history surrounding young pregnant and parenting women in social and educational policy contexts. Less is known about young mothers themselves and how they experience the social and material effects of early motherhood. The purpose of this study was to examine how young mothers, who attended a young parent program in Lake City in Victoria Australia, experienced early motherhood and how they contested the social discourses that framed their lives. Using a poststructural lens and drawing on the work of Michel Foucault, this thesis used narrative inquiry and discourse analysis to examine the complex nature of seven young mothers’ lives. Analysis of the narrative data showed that despite the complexities, early motherhood was a significant turning point as the young mothers drew on resources of resistance and responsibility to transform their lives. An analysis of the social welfare policy practices identified surveillance and regulation measures as responses to alleviate long-term welfare dependency but did not account for the structural and economic barriers that young mothers encountered in their lives. In educational contexts, the young mothers in this study had experienced disrupted education trajectories before moving to an alternative setting. The findings highlight that they were ‘invisible’ in mainstream educational contexts and while ‘learning from the margins’ in the young parent program. This study found that the voice of the young mother was missing in the social and educational policy discourses, and the complexities of early motherhood were not accounted for within the policies. This thesis argues that young mothers’ voices need to be included in strategic policy responses to address issues of inequity and reduce the structural and economic barriers faced by young mothers.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Felstead, Karen
- Date: 2020
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: The notion that early motherhood is a significant problem for society is widely documented in the academic literature, and there is a complicated history surrounding young pregnant and parenting women in social and educational policy contexts. Less is known about young mothers themselves and how they experience the social and material effects of early motherhood. The purpose of this study was to examine how young mothers, who attended a young parent program in Lake City in Victoria Australia, experienced early motherhood and how they contested the social discourses that framed their lives. Using a poststructural lens and drawing on the work of Michel Foucault, this thesis used narrative inquiry and discourse analysis to examine the complex nature of seven young mothers’ lives. Analysis of the narrative data showed that despite the complexities, early motherhood was a significant turning point as the young mothers drew on resources of resistance and responsibility to transform their lives. An analysis of the social welfare policy practices identified surveillance and regulation measures as responses to alleviate long-term welfare dependency but did not account for the structural and economic barriers that young mothers encountered in their lives. In educational contexts, the young mothers in this study had experienced disrupted education trajectories before moving to an alternative setting. The findings highlight that they were ‘invisible’ in mainstream educational contexts and while ‘learning from the margins’ in the young parent program. This study found that the voice of the young mother was missing in the social and educational policy discourses, and the complexities of early motherhood were not accounted for within the policies. This thesis argues that young mothers’ voices need to be included in strategic policy responses to address issues of inequity and reduce the structural and economic barriers faced by young mothers.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
Human rights for or by the people? Securing economic, social and cultural rights in a post-war/post-conflict context
- Authors: Fernando, Dinesha
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: This grounded theory (GT) study explores the economic, social and cultural (ESC) conditions and associated rights in post-war Sri Lanka during the past 10 years (2009– 2019). Tamils have been left in a challenging position after the war in terms of how other citizens have been perceiving them and their uniqueness has been disputed in terms of their rights. The overall position of the Tamils in the country has changed in recent history, which is a unique situation not only for the Tamils but also for the whole country. The 30-year Sri Lankan civil war is an important example of transformations during resettlement and the transitions back to normalcy. For many years, the war produced serious loss of life, assets and property, and in addition to these losses, the majority of people were affected either directly or indirectly. It is probably without choice that over the past decades, the Sri Lankans have faced significant economic, social, and cultural rights (ESCR) challenges, especially in the north of the country. In the 10 years since the Sri Lankan Government brought an end to the devastating civil war, the country has seen improvements in the overall security and freedom of movement, infrastructure, investment, and growth; yet there remain many ESCR challenges. This thesis identifies the forces that have been acting for and against securing ESCR for minority Tamils in post-war Sri Lanka. Specifically, the thesis identifies the strategies to secure ESCR in a post-war situation when ESCR are absent or insecure. The grounded-up nature of this thesis explores capturing the ESCR-related post-war experiences, attributes and learnings rather than gathering facts and describing acts. The thesis was designed to address the research questions in a direct manner: (1) What are the forces acting for and against securing ESCR for minority Tamils in post-war Sri Lanka; and (2) What would be the most effective strategies for securing ESCR for minority Tamils in post-war Sri Lanka? This constructivist grounded theory study collected qualitative data through in-depth, one-on-one semi-structured interviews and observations. In an effort to chart and examine what individuals and communities do in the absence of secure ESCR, I uncovered surprising and interesting coping strategies adopted by communities in their efforts to secure ESCR. A significant aim of this study was to share the results/findings with regional policymakers, especially in the north of Sri Lanka. Furthermore, with the availability of funds, this study could be expanded to incorporate a larger context in the form of a book published to assist in improving the lives of war-affected victims’ in terms of future access, promotion, protection and enjoyment of ESCR.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Fernando, Dinesha
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: This grounded theory (GT) study explores the economic, social and cultural (ESC) conditions and associated rights in post-war Sri Lanka during the past 10 years (2009– 2019). Tamils have been left in a challenging position after the war in terms of how other citizens have been perceiving them and their uniqueness has been disputed in terms of their rights. The overall position of the Tamils in the country has changed in recent history, which is a unique situation not only for the Tamils but also for the whole country. The 30-year Sri Lankan civil war is an important example of transformations during resettlement and the transitions back to normalcy. For many years, the war produced serious loss of life, assets and property, and in addition to these losses, the majority of people were affected either directly or indirectly. It is probably without choice that over the past decades, the Sri Lankans have faced significant economic, social, and cultural rights (ESCR) challenges, especially in the north of the country. In the 10 years since the Sri Lankan Government brought an end to the devastating civil war, the country has seen improvements in the overall security and freedom of movement, infrastructure, investment, and growth; yet there remain many ESCR challenges. This thesis identifies the forces that have been acting for and against securing ESCR for minority Tamils in post-war Sri Lanka. Specifically, the thesis identifies the strategies to secure ESCR in a post-war situation when ESCR are absent or insecure. The grounded-up nature of this thesis explores capturing the ESCR-related post-war experiences, attributes and learnings rather than gathering facts and describing acts. The thesis was designed to address the research questions in a direct manner: (1) What are the forces acting for and against securing ESCR for minority Tamils in post-war Sri Lanka; and (2) What would be the most effective strategies for securing ESCR for minority Tamils in post-war Sri Lanka? This constructivist grounded theory study collected qualitative data through in-depth, one-on-one semi-structured interviews and observations. In an effort to chart and examine what individuals and communities do in the absence of secure ESCR, I uncovered surprising and interesting coping strategies adopted by communities in their efforts to secure ESCR. A significant aim of this study was to share the results/findings with regional policymakers, especially in the north of Sri Lanka. Furthermore, with the availability of funds, this study could be expanded to incorporate a larger context in the form of a book published to assist in improving the lives of war-affected victims’ in terms of future access, promotion, protection and enjoyment of ESCR.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
The determinants and development of fast bowling performance in cricket
- Authors: Feros, Simon
- Date: 2015
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: This thesis sought to reveal the physical and kinematic determinants of pace bowling performance. After drawing on these determinants, a secondary aim was to investigate whether pace bowling performance could be enhanced with chronic resistance training and warm-up strategies. However, before the physical and kinematic determinants of pace bowling performance could be identified, and the effects of two training interventions and warm-ups on pace bowling performance, a new pace bowling test was created, and the test-retest reliability of its performance and kinematic measures were evaluated. Knowledge of a variables’ test-retest reliability is important for interpreting the validity of correlations, but also for the determination of a meaningful change following a training intervention. Only one published study to date has explored the test-retest reliability of a pace bowling assessment, and this test only measured bowling accuracy (1). Previous research has not comprehensively examined the relationships between physical qualities and pace bowling performance. Several important physical qualities (e.g., power, speed-acceleration, flexibility, repeat-sprint ability) have been excluded in correlational research, which may be crucial for optimal pace bowling performance. Furthermore, there is only one published training intervention study on pace bowling research (2). Consequently there is scant evidence for coaches to design training programs proven to enhance pace bowling performance. Baseball pitching studies have trialled the effects of heavy-ball throwing in the warm-up on subsequent throwing velocity and accuracy, but this approach has not been studied in cricket pace bowling, especially after several weeks of training. Therefore, four studies were conducted in this PhD project to address these deficiencies in the literature. The purpose of Study 1 (Chapter 3) was to ascertain the test-retest reliability of bowling performance measures (i.e., bowling speed, bowling accuracy, consistency of bowling speed, and consistency of bowling accuracy) and selected bowling kinematics (i.e., approach speed, step length, step-length phase duration, power phase duration, and knee extension angle at front-foot contact and at ball release) in a novel eight-over test, and for the first four overs of this test. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), standard error of measurement (SEM), and coefficient of variation (CV) were used as measures of test-retest reliability (3). Following a three week familiarisation period of bowling, 13 participants completed a novel eight-over bowling test on two separate days with 4–7 days apart. The most reliable performance measures in the bowling test were peak bowling speed (ICC = 0.948–0.975, CV = 1.3–1.9%) and mean bowling speed (ICC = 0.981–0.987, CV = 1.0–1.3%). Perceived effort was partially reliable (ICC = 0.650– 0.659, CV = 3.8–3.9%). However, mean bowling accuracy (ICC = 0.491–0.685, CV = 12.5–16.8%) and consistency of bowling accuracy failed to meet the pre-set standard for acceptable reliability (ICC = 0.434–0.454, CV = 15.3–19.3%). All bowling kinematic variables except approach speed exhibited acceptable reliability (i.e., ICC > 0.8, CV < 10%). The first four overs of the bowling test exhibited slightly poorer test-retest reliability for all measures, compared to the entire eight-over test. There were no systematic biases (i.e., p > 0.05) detected with all variables between bowling tests, indicating there was no learning or fatigue effects. The smallest worthwhile change was established for all bowling performance and kinematic variables, by multiplying the SEM by 1.5 (4). It is recommended that the eight-over pace bowling test be used as a more comprehensive measure of consistency of bowling speed and consistency of bowling accuracy, as bowlers are more likely to be fatigued. However, if coaches seek to assess pace bowlers in shorter time, delimiting the test to the first four overs is recommended. Both versions of the pace bowling test are only capable of reliably measuring bowling performance outcomes such as peak and mean bowling speed, and perceived effort. The second study of this PhD project examined the relationships between selected physical qualities, bowling kinematics, and bowling performance measures. Another purpose of this novel study was to determine if delivery instructions (i.e., maximal-effort, match-intensity, slower-ball) influenced the strength of the relationships between physical qualities and bowling performance measures. Given that there were three delivery instructions in the bowling test, an objective of this study was to explore the relationship between bowling speed and bowling accuracy (i.e., speed-accuracy trade-off). Thirty-one participants completed an eight-over bowling test in the first session, and a series of physical tests, spread over two separate sessions. Each session was separated by four to seven days. Mean bowling speed (of all pooled deliveries) was significantly correlated to 1-RM pull-up strength (rs [24] = 0.55, p = 0.01) and 20-m sprint time (rs [30] = -0.37, p = 0.04), but the correlations marginally increased as delivery effort increased (i.e., maximal-effort ball). Greater hamstring flexibility was associated with a better consistency of bowling speed, but only for a match-intensity delivery (rs [29] = -0.49, p = 0.01). Repeat-sprint ability (i.e., percent decrement on 10 × 20-m sprints, on every 20 s) displayed a stronger correlation to consistency of bowling speed (rs [21] = -0.42, p = 0.06) than for mean bowling speed (rs [21] = 0.15, p = 0.53). Bench press strength was moderately related to bowling accuracy for a maximal-effort delivery (rs [26] = -0.42, p = 0.03), with weaker but non-significant (p > 0.05) correlations for match-intensity and slower-ball deliveries. Bowling accuracy was also significantly related to peak concentric countermovement jump power (rs [28] = -0.41, p = 0.03) and mean peak concentric countermovement jump power (rs [27] = -0.45, p = 0.02), with both physical qualities displaying stronger correlations as delivery effort increased. Greater reactive strength was negatively associated with mean bowling accuracy (rs [30] = 0.38, p = 0.04) and consistency of bowling accuracy (rs [30] = 0.43, p = 0.02) for maximal-effort deliveries only. Faster bowling speeds were correlated to a longer step length (rs [31] = 0.51, p < 0.01) and quicker power phase duration (rs [31] = -0.45, p = 0.01). A better consistency of bowling accuracy was associated with a faster approach speed (rs [31] = -0.36, p = 0.05) and greater knee flexion angle at ball release (rs [27] = -0.42, p = 0.03). No speedaccuracy trade-off was observed for the group (rs [31] = -0.28, p = 0.12), indicating that most bowlers could be instructed to train at maximal-effort without compromising bowling accuracy. Pull-up strength training and speed-acceleration training were chosen for the “evidence-based” training program (Study 3). Heavy-ball bowling was also considered as part of the evidence-based training program, as it is a specific form of training used previously, and because there was a shortage of significant relationships (p < 0.05) between physical qualities and bowling performance measures in Study 2. The third investigation of this PhD project compared the effects of an eight-week evidence-based training program or normal training program (not a control group) on pace bowling performance, approach speed, speed-acceleration, and pull-up strength. Participants were matched for bowling speed and then randomly split into two training groups, with six participants in each group. After an initial two-week familiarisation period of bowling training, sprint training, and pull-up training, participants completed two training sessions per week, and were tested before and after the training intervention. Testing comprised the four-over pace bowling test (Study 1), 20-m sprint test (Study 2), and 1-RM pull-up test (Study 2). In training, the volume of bowling and sprinting was constant between both groups; the only differences were that the evidence-based training group bowled with heavy balls (250 g and 300 g) as well as a regular ball (156 g), sprinted with a weighted-vest (15% and 20% body mass) and without a weighted-vest, and performed pull-up training. Participants were instructed to deliver each ball with maximal effort in training, as no speed-accuracy trade-off was observed for the sample in Study 2. The evidence-based training group bowled with poorer accuracy and consistency of accuracy, with only a small improvement in peak and mean bowling speed. Heavy-ball bowling may have had a negative transfer to regular-ball bowling. Although speculative, a longer evidence-based program may have significantly enhanced bowling speed. Coaches could use both training programs to develop performance but should be aware that bowling accuracy may suffer with the evidence-based program. The evidence-based training group displayed slower 20-m sprint times following training (0.08 ± 0.05 s). However, the normal training group was also slower (0.10 ± 0.09 s), indicating the potential for speed-acceleration improvement is compromised if speed training is performed immediately after bowling training; most likely due to residual fatigue. Consequently it is recommended that speed-acceleration training be conducted when bowlers are not fatigued, in a separate session, or at the beginning of a session. The evidence-based training group improved their 1-RM pull-up strength by 5.8 ± 6.8 kg (d = 0.68), compared to the normal training group of 0.2 ± 1.7 kg (d = 0.01). The difference between training groups is due to the fact that the normal training group were not prescribed pull-up training. As many participants could not complete the pull-up exercise due to insufficient strength, the dumbbell pullover may be a suitable alternative that is more specific to the motion of the bowling arm (i.e., extended arm). The fourth study of this PhD project explored the acute effects of a heavy-ball bowling warm-up on pace bowling performance, and determined if these acute effects could be enhanced or negated following an evidence-based training program. This study involved the same participants who completed the evidence-based training program in Study 3. These participants were required to perform two different bowling warm-ups (heavy-ball or regular-ball) in pre and post-test period, followed by the four-over pace bowling test (Study 1). In pre-test period, bowling accuracy was 8.8 ± 7.4 cm worse for the heavy-ball warm-up compared to the regular-ball warm-up (d = 1.19). In post-test period however, bowling accuracy was 5.5 ± 6.4 cm better in the heavy-ball warm-up compared to the regular-ball warm-up (d = -0.90). A similar trend was observed for consistency of bowling accuracy. These findings indicate that pace bowlers adapt to heavy-ball bowling, and bowl more accurately with a regular ball if they warm-up with a heavy ball first (but only after eight weeks of heavy-ball training). Coaches could employ a heavy-ball warm-up prior to training or a match, but only after eight weeks of evidence based training. It is hypothesised that a less biomechanically similar exercise to the pace bowling motion such as resisted push-ups / bench press throws could be more effective in eliciting potentiation by activating higher order motor units without negatively transferring to bowling performance. From the studies presented in this thesis, it is concluded that peak and mean bowling speed are the most reliable bowling performance measures, and all kinematic variables apart from approach speed possess excellent reliability. Furthermore, 1-RM pull-up strength and 20-m speed are significantly correlated to bowling speed. An evidence-based training program can develop peak and mean bowling speed, but the cost to bowling accuracy and consistency of bowling accuracy does not make this training program worthwhile in enhancing pace bowling performance. A heavy-ball warm-up impairs bowling accuracy and consistency of bowling accuracy compared to the regular-ball warm-up, but only prior to training with the heavier balls. Pace bowlers adapt to heavyball bowling after eight weeks of training, but must use the heavy balls in the warm-up to bowl more accurately with a regular ball, otherwise pace bowling performance is below optimal.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Feros, Simon
- Date: 2015
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: This thesis sought to reveal the physical and kinematic determinants of pace bowling performance. After drawing on these determinants, a secondary aim was to investigate whether pace bowling performance could be enhanced with chronic resistance training and warm-up strategies. However, before the physical and kinematic determinants of pace bowling performance could be identified, and the effects of two training interventions and warm-ups on pace bowling performance, a new pace bowling test was created, and the test-retest reliability of its performance and kinematic measures were evaluated. Knowledge of a variables’ test-retest reliability is important for interpreting the validity of correlations, but also for the determination of a meaningful change following a training intervention. Only one published study to date has explored the test-retest reliability of a pace bowling assessment, and this test only measured bowling accuracy (1). Previous research has not comprehensively examined the relationships between physical qualities and pace bowling performance. Several important physical qualities (e.g., power, speed-acceleration, flexibility, repeat-sprint ability) have been excluded in correlational research, which may be crucial for optimal pace bowling performance. Furthermore, there is only one published training intervention study on pace bowling research (2). Consequently there is scant evidence for coaches to design training programs proven to enhance pace bowling performance. Baseball pitching studies have trialled the effects of heavy-ball throwing in the warm-up on subsequent throwing velocity and accuracy, but this approach has not been studied in cricket pace bowling, especially after several weeks of training. Therefore, four studies were conducted in this PhD project to address these deficiencies in the literature. The purpose of Study 1 (Chapter 3) was to ascertain the test-retest reliability of bowling performance measures (i.e., bowling speed, bowling accuracy, consistency of bowling speed, and consistency of bowling accuracy) and selected bowling kinematics (i.e., approach speed, step length, step-length phase duration, power phase duration, and knee extension angle at front-foot contact and at ball release) in a novel eight-over test, and for the first four overs of this test. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), standard error of measurement (SEM), and coefficient of variation (CV) were used as measures of test-retest reliability (3). Following a three week familiarisation period of bowling, 13 participants completed a novel eight-over bowling test on two separate days with 4–7 days apart. The most reliable performance measures in the bowling test were peak bowling speed (ICC = 0.948–0.975, CV = 1.3–1.9%) and mean bowling speed (ICC = 0.981–0.987, CV = 1.0–1.3%). Perceived effort was partially reliable (ICC = 0.650– 0.659, CV = 3.8–3.9%). However, mean bowling accuracy (ICC = 0.491–0.685, CV = 12.5–16.8%) and consistency of bowling accuracy failed to meet the pre-set standard for acceptable reliability (ICC = 0.434–0.454, CV = 15.3–19.3%). All bowling kinematic variables except approach speed exhibited acceptable reliability (i.e., ICC > 0.8, CV < 10%). The first four overs of the bowling test exhibited slightly poorer test-retest reliability for all measures, compared to the entire eight-over test. There were no systematic biases (i.e., p > 0.05) detected with all variables between bowling tests, indicating there was no learning or fatigue effects. The smallest worthwhile change was established for all bowling performance and kinematic variables, by multiplying the SEM by 1.5 (4). It is recommended that the eight-over pace bowling test be used as a more comprehensive measure of consistency of bowling speed and consistency of bowling accuracy, as bowlers are more likely to be fatigued. However, if coaches seek to assess pace bowlers in shorter time, delimiting the test to the first four overs is recommended. Both versions of the pace bowling test are only capable of reliably measuring bowling performance outcomes such as peak and mean bowling speed, and perceived effort. The second study of this PhD project examined the relationships between selected physical qualities, bowling kinematics, and bowling performance measures. Another purpose of this novel study was to determine if delivery instructions (i.e., maximal-effort, match-intensity, slower-ball) influenced the strength of the relationships between physical qualities and bowling performance measures. Given that there were three delivery instructions in the bowling test, an objective of this study was to explore the relationship between bowling speed and bowling accuracy (i.e., speed-accuracy trade-off). Thirty-one participants completed an eight-over bowling test in the first session, and a series of physical tests, spread over two separate sessions. Each session was separated by four to seven days. Mean bowling speed (of all pooled deliveries) was significantly correlated to 1-RM pull-up strength (rs [24] = 0.55, p = 0.01) and 20-m sprint time (rs [30] = -0.37, p = 0.04), but the correlations marginally increased as delivery effort increased (i.e., maximal-effort ball). Greater hamstring flexibility was associated with a better consistency of bowling speed, but only for a match-intensity delivery (rs [29] = -0.49, p = 0.01). Repeat-sprint ability (i.e., percent decrement on 10 × 20-m sprints, on every 20 s) displayed a stronger correlation to consistency of bowling speed (rs [21] = -0.42, p = 0.06) than for mean bowling speed (rs [21] = 0.15, p = 0.53). Bench press strength was moderately related to bowling accuracy for a maximal-effort delivery (rs [26] = -0.42, p = 0.03), with weaker but non-significant (p > 0.05) correlations for match-intensity and slower-ball deliveries. Bowling accuracy was also significantly related to peak concentric countermovement jump power (rs [28] = -0.41, p = 0.03) and mean peak concentric countermovement jump power (rs [27] = -0.45, p = 0.02), with both physical qualities displaying stronger correlations as delivery effort increased. Greater reactive strength was negatively associated with mean bowling accuracy (rs [30] = 0.38, p = 0.04) and consistency of bowling accuracy (rs [30] = 0.43, p = 0.02) for maximal-effort deliveries only. Faster bowling speeds were correlated to a longer step length (rs [31] = 0.51, p < 0.01) and quicker power phase duration (rs [31] = -0.45, p = 0.01). A better consistency of bowling accuracy was associated with a faster approach speed (rs [31] = -0.36, p = 0.05) and greater knee flexion angle at ball release (rs [27] = -0.42, p = 0.03). No speedaccuracy trade-off was observed for the group (rs [31] = -0.28, p = 0.12), indicating that most bowlers could be instructed to train at maximal-effort without compromising bowling accuracy. Pull-up strength training and speed-acceleration training were chosen for the “evidence-based” training program (Study 3). Heavy-ball bowling was also considered as part of the evidence-based training program, as it is a specific form of training used previously, and because there was a shortage of significant relationships (p < 0.05) between physical qualities and bowling performance measures in Study 2. The third investigation of this PhD project compared the effects of an eight-week evidence-based training program or normal training program (not a control group) on pace bowling performance, approach speed, speed-acceleration, and pull-up strength. Participants were matched for bowling speed and then randomly split into two training groups, with six participants in each group. After an initial two-week familiarisation period of bowling training, sprint training, and pull-up training, participants completed two training sessions per week, and were tested before and after the training intervention. Testing comprised the four-over pace bowling test (Study 1), 20-m sprint test (Study 2), and 1-RM pull-up test (Study 2). In training, the volume of bowling and sprinting was constant between both groups; the only differences were that the evidence-based training group bowled with heavy balls (250 g and 300 g) as well as a regular ball (156 g), sprinted with a weighted-vest (15% and 20% body mass) and without a weighted-vest, and performed pull-up training. Participants were instructed to deliver each ball with maximal effort in training, as no speed-accuracy trade-off was observed for the sample in Study 2. The evidence-based training group bowled with poorer accuracy and consistency of accuracy, with only a small improvement in peak and mean bowling speed. Heavy-ball bowling may have had a negative transfer to regular-ball bowling. Although speculative, a longer evidence-based program may have significantly enhanced bowling speed. Coaches could use both training programs to develop performance but should be aware that bowling accuracy may suffer with the evidence-based program. The evidence-based training group displayed slower 20-m sprint times following training (0.08 ± 0.05 s). However, the normal training group was also slower (0.10 ± 0.09 s), indicating the potential for speed-acceleration improvement is compromised if speed training is performed immediately after bowling training; most likely due to residual fatigue. Consequently it is recommended that speed-acceleration training be conducted when bowlers are not fatigued, in a separate session, or at the beginning of a session. The evidence-based training group improved their 1-RM pull-up strength by 5.8 ± 6.8 kg (d = 0.68), compared to the normal training group of 0.2 ± 1.7 kg (d = 0.01). The difference between training groups is due to the fact that the normal training group were not prescribed pull-up training. As many participants could not complete the pull-up exercise due to insufficient strength, the dumbbell pullover may be a suitable alternative that is more specific to the motion of the bowling arm (i.e., extended arm). The fourth study of this PhD project explored the acute effects of a heavy-ball bowling warm-up on pace bowling performance, and determined if these acute effects could be enhanced or negated following an evidence-based training program. This study involved the same participants who completed the evidence-based training program in Study 3. These participants were required to perform two different bowling warm-ups (heavy-ball or regular-ball) in pre and post-test period, followed by the four-over pace bowling test (Study 1). In pre-test period, bowling accuracy was 8.8 ± 7.4 cm worse for the heavy-ball warm-up compared to the regular-ball warm-up (d = 1.19). In post-test period however, bowling accuracy was 5.5 ± 6.4 cm better in the heavy-ball warm-up compared to the regular-ball warm-up (d = -0.90). A similar trend was observed for consistency of bowling accuracy. These findings indicate that pace bowlers adapt to heavy-ball bowling, and bowl more accurately with a regular ball if they warm-up with a heavy ball first (but only after eight weeks of heavy-ball training). Coaches could employ a heavy-ball warm-up prior to training or a match, but only after eight weeks of evidence based training. It is hypothesised that a less biomechanically similar exercise to the pace bowling motion such as resisted push-ups / bench press throws could be more effective in eliciting potentiation by activating higher order motor units without negatively transferring to bowling performance. From the studies presented in this thesis, it is concluded that peak and mean bowling speed are the most reliable bowling performance measures, and all kinematic variables apart from approach speed possess excellent reliability. Furthermore, 1-RM pull-up strength and 20-m speed are significantly correlated to bowling speed. An evidence-based training program can develop peak and mean bowling speed, but the cost to bowling accuracy and consistency of bowling accuracy does not make this training program worthwhile in enhancing pace bowling performance. A heavy-ball warm-up impairs bowling accuracy and consistency of bowling accuracy compared to the regular-ball warm-up, but only prior to training with the heavier balls. Pace bowlers adapt to heavyball bowling after eight weeks of training, but must use the heavy balls in the warm-up to bowl more accurately with a regular ball, otherwise pace bowling performance is below optimal.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
Revision and validation of the Australian Competency Standards for Occupational Therapy Driver Assessors to ensure best practice
- Authors: Fields, Sally
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Occupational therapy driver assessment and rehabilitation is an advanced and complex area of practice. Users of this service require that occupational therapy driver assessors are, and remain, competent in their role. Competency standards support and inform occupational therapy driver assessment and rehabilitation practice, ensure standardisation of practice, and determine whether practice can be deemed competent. Competency standards for occupational therapy driver assessors in one Australian state, Victoria, were published in 1998 to provide a benchmark for service provision and guide training. Since then, occupational therapy driver assessor practice has undergone further developments and growth, including a significant increase in research evidence underpinning this advanced practice area. As a result, the competency standards required revision to reflect contemporary practice and enable their use and application across all Australian states and territories. The purpose of the research program reported in this thesis was to revise and validate the Australian Competency Standards for Occupational Therapy Driver Assessors and determine if education and practice using these standards led to increased adherence to their use in clinical practice. A sequential, exploratory, mixed methods design was used within a pragmatist research paradigm to revise and validate the competency standards for occupational therapy driver assessors from a national perspective. Four separate research studies were conducted. In the first study, an overview was undertaken to summarise the current evidence for including cognitive and perceptual assessments within fitness-to-drive evaluations, to inform the revision of the competency standards for occupational therapy driver assessors. The second study involved focus groups with Australian occupational therapy driver assessors and expert educators and identified the changes and revisions required to be made to the Victorian competency standards for occupational therapy driver assessors. Content themes and changes were extracted from the focus groups and combined with research evidence to draft the revised standards. The third study collected feedback from consumers and Australian driver licensing authorities to incorporate into the revised draft. This was followed by a two-round Delphi process with Australian occupational therapy driver assessors to achieve consensus and validate the Australian Competency Standards for Occupational Therapy Driver Assessors. A high level of consensus on the content of all competency standards and underlying practice behaviours was obtained in the final round. Finally, a mixed-methods multiple case-study methodology was adopted, and multiple forms of evidence were collected from file audits, semi-structured interviews and an individualised education session with occupational therapy driver assessors. This study demonstrated that, for this sample, occupational therapy driver assessors’ adherence to the Australian Competency Standards for Occupational Therapy Driver Assessors increased following an individually tailored education package about the standards. The research in this thesis has contributed to the evidence base for occupational therapy driver assessor practice. The Australian Competency Standards for Occupational Therapy Driver Assessors have been revised, validated and published, and the impact of an education package to increase adherence has been investigated. These competency standards: (i) assist occupational therapy driver assessors’ clinical practice, support occupational therapy registration and regulatory agencies to evaluate practice against a standard and (iii) provide universities with a framework to deliver postgraduate training in occupational therapy driver assessment and rehabilitation. Finally, this research has described a process that can be utilised in other areas of occupational therapy practice to develop and validate competency standards.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Fields, Sally
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Occupational therapy driver assessment and rehabilitation is an advanced and complex area of practice. Users of this service require that occupational therapy driver assessors are, and remain, competent in their role. Competency standards support and inform occupational therapy driver assessment and rehabilitation practice, ensure standardisation of practice, and determine whether practice can be deemed competent. Competency standards for occupational therapy driver assessors in one Australian state, Victoria, were published in 1998 to provide a benchmark for service provision and guide training. Since then, occupational therapy driver assessor practice has undergone further developments and growth, including a significant increase in research evidence underpinning this advanced practice area. As a result, the competency standards required revision to reflect contemporary practice and enable their use and application across all Australian states and territories. The purpose of the research program reported in this thesis was to revise and validate the Australian Competency Standards for Occupational Therapy Driver Assessors and determine if education and practice using these standards led to increased adherence to their use in clinical practice. A sequential, exploratory, mixed methods design was used within a pragmatist research paradigm to revise and validate the competency standards for occupational therapy driver assessors from a national perspective. Four separate research studies were conducted. In the first study, an overview was undertaken to summarise the current evidence for including cognitive and perceptual assessments within fitness-to-drive evaluations, to inform the revision of the competency standards for occupational therapy driver assessors. The second study involved focus groups with Australian occupational therapy driver assessors and expert educators and identified the changes and revisions required to be made to the Victorian competency standards for occupational therapy driver assessors. Content themes and changes were extracted from the focus groups and combined with research evidence to draft the revised standards. The third study collected feedback from consumers and Australian driver licensing authorities to incorporate into the revised draft. This was followed by a two-round Delphi process with Australian occupational therapy driver assessors to achieve consensus and validate the Australian Competency Standards for Occupational Therapy Driver Assessors. A high level of consensus on the content of all competency standards and underlying practice behaviours was obtained in the final round. Finally, a mixed-methods multiple case-study methodology was adopted, and multiple forms of evidence were collected from file audits, semi-structured interviews and an individualised education session with occupational therapy driver assessors. This study demonstrated that, for this sample, occupational therapy driver assessors’ adherence to the Australian Competency Standards for Occupational Therapy Driver Assessors increased following an individually tailored education package about the standards. The research in this thesis has contributed to the evidence base for occupational therapy driver assessor practice. The Australian Competency Standards for Occupational Therapy Driver Assessors have been revised, validated and published, and the impact of an education package to increase adherence has been investigated. These competency standards: (i) assist occupational therapy driver assessors’ clinical practice, support occupational therapy registration and regulatory agencies to evaluate practice against a standard and (iii) provide universities with a framework to deliver postgraduate training in occupational therapy driver assessment and rehabilitation. Finally, this research has described a process that can be utilised in other areas of occupational therapy practice to develop and validate competency standards.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
Positionality of disengaged students in a rural town
- Authors: Fish, Tim
- Date: 2012
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: This thesis critically analyses the way disengaged youth participating in an alternative education program are positioned within a small rural town, New Goldfields (a pseudonym), a town of 2,300 people in the Wimmera region of Victoria.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Fish, Tim
- Date: 2012
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: This thesis critically analyses the way disengaged youth participating in an alternative education program are positioned within a small rural town, New Goldfields (a pseudonym), a town of 2,300 people in the Wimmera region of Victoria.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy