Cognitive behaviour therapy for insomnia and depression among older adults : A mixed methods randomised controlled clinical trial
- Authors: Sadler, Paul
- Date: 2018
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Background A strong relationship exists between insomnia and depression, particularly among older adults (aged 65 years and older). Recently experts in the field of behavioural sleep medicine established cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) was an effective treatment for comorbid insomnia, however, it was unknown whether cognitive behaviour therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) benefitted older adults with co-occurring depression (literature review published in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy). A mixed-methods randomised controlled clinical trial (RCT) was warranted within a community mental health setting to investigate the efficacy of CBT-I for older adults with comorbid insomnia and depression. Furthermore, no study had tested whether an advanced form of CBT-I that included additional positive mood-enhancing strategies produced better outcomes compared to a standard form of CBT-I that only targeted insomnia. It was anticipated that the results from such a trial could influence the evolution of treatment for older adults with these highly prevalent comorbid conditions. Methodology An RCT was conducted between 2014 and 2016 across Victoria, Australia, through Latrobe Regional Hospital‟s and Peninsula Health‟s Community Mental Health Services (protocol published in Trials). Seventy-two older adults with diagnosed comorbid insomnia and depression were randomly assigned to one of three group therapy conditions: cognitive behaviour therapy for insomnia (CBT-I, standard), cognitive behaviour therapy for insomnia plus positive mood strategies (CBT-I+, advanced), psychoeducation control group (PCG, control). The primary outcomes were insomnia severity (Insomnia Severity Index) and depression severity (Geriatric Depression Scale). Primary and secondary measures were collected at pre (week 0), post (week 8), and follow-up (week 20). Participants who completed the experiential conditions were invited to provide feedback in the form of semi- xvii structured focus groups following the final session of treatment. Thirty-one participants from six groups reflected on their experiences of participating in CBT-I and CBT-I+. Results Quantitative analyses demonstrated the experiential CBT conditions both generated significantly greater reductions in insomnia and depression severity compared to PCG from pre to post, which were maintained at follow-up. The standard and advanced conditions showed similar reductions on insomnia and depression severity at post and follow up. These results were also consistent for the secondary measures across conditions. Both active treatments demonstrated large effect sizes, high retention, and strong remission rates for older adults with insomnia and depression (published in journal SLEEP). A qualitative analysis was also conducted to explore the participants‟ experiences of treatment. Interview data from the reflective focus groups was transcribed into 424 sentences and 60 codes were extracted. Thirty-four initial themes emerged, which were finally transformed into 3 themes and 10 subthemes. The three themes were (1) positive experiences, (2) negative experiences, and (3) suggested modifications. The positive subthemes were (1a) therapists, (1b) togetherness, (1c) use of strategies reduced symptoms, and (1d) acceptance. The negative subthemes were (2a) persistent symptoms, (2b) program too condensed, and (2c) attendance obstacles. The suggested modifications were (3a) lengthen program, (3b) multi-dimensional learning, and (3c) multi-modal delivery options (manuscript under review in Aging and Mental Health). Conclusion This is the first RCT to demonstrate that specifically treating comorbid insomnia with CBT has an additional positive effect of improving depression for older adults with multiple comorbidities. Both CBT programs were effective at reducing insomnia and depression severity for older adults with comorbidity. Replication of this study is necessary with a larger sample size to conclusively establish whether the two interventions have different or equivalent effects. It was suggested mental health services that deliver treatment for comorbid insomnia with CBT may improve recovery outcomes for older adults with depression. Future CBT-I programs for older adults may be improved by increasing the length of therapy (e.g., 8 sessions to 12 sessions), adding multi-dimensional learning opportunities (e.g., visual/audio/mentorship), and offering various modes of treatment delivery (e.g., group, individual, internet, telephone).
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Sadler, Paul
- Date: 2018
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Background A strong relationship exists between insomnia and depression, particularly among older adults (aged 65 years and older). Recently experts in the field of behavioural sleep medicine established cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) was an effective treatment for comorbid insomnia, however, it was unknown whether cognitive behaviour therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) benefitted older adults with co-occurring depression (literature review published in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy). A mixed-methods randomised controlled clinical trial (RCT) was warranted within a community mental health setting to investigate the efficacy of CBT-I for older adults with comorbid insomnia and depression. Furthermore, no study had tested whether an advanced form of CBT-I that included additional positive mood-enhancing strategies produced better outcomes compared to a standard form of CBT-I that only targeted insomnia. It was anticipated that the results from such a trial could influence the evolution of treatment for older adults with these highly prevalent comorbid conditions. Methodology An RCT was conducted between 2014 and 2016 across Victoria, Australia, through Latrobe Regional Hospital‟s and Peninsula Health‟s Community Mental Health Services (protocol published in Trials). Seventy-two older adults with diagnosed comorbid insomnia and depression were randomly assigned to one of three group therapy conditions: cognitive behaviour therapy for insomnia (CBT-I, standard), cognitive behaviour therapy for insomnia plus positive mood strategies (CBT-I+, advanced), psychoeducation control group (PCG, control). The primary outcomes were insomnia severity (Insomnia Severity Index) and depression severity (Geriatric Depression Scale). Primary and secondary measures were collected at pre (week 0), post (week 8), and follow-up (week 20). Participants who completed the experiential conditions were invited to provide feedback in the form of semi- xvii structured focus groups following the final session of treatment. Thirty-one participants from six groups reflected on their experiences of participating in CBT-I and CBT-I+. Results Quantitative analyses demonstrated the experiential CBT conditions both generated significantly greater reductions in insomnia and depression severity compared to PCG from pre to post, which were maintained at follow-up. The standard and advanced conditions showed similar reductions on insomnia and depression severity at post and follow up. These results were also consistent for the secondary measures across conditions. Both active treatments demonstrated large effect sizes, high retention, and strong remission rates for older adults with insomnia and depression (published in journal SLEEP). A qualitative analysis was also conducted to explore the participants‟ experiences of treatment. Interview data from the reflective focus groups was transcribed into 424 sentences and 60 codes were extracted. Thirty-four initial themes emerged, which were finally transformed into 3 themes and 10 subthemes. The three themes were (1) positive experiences, (2) negative experiences, and (3) suggested modifications. The positive subthemes were (1a) therapists, (1b) togetherness, (1c) use of strategies reduced symptoms, and (1d) acceptance. The negative subthemes were (2a) persistent symptoms, (2b) program too condensed, and (2c) attendance obstacles. The suggested modifications were (3a) lengthen program, (3b) multi-dimensional learning, and (3c) multi-modal delivery options (manuscript under review in Aging and Mental Health). Conclusion This is the first RCT to demonstrate that specifically treating comorbid insomnia with CBT has an additional positive effect of improving depression for older adults with multiple comorbidities. Both CBT programs were effective at reducing insomnia and depression severity for older adults with comorbidity. Replication of this study is necessary with a larger sample size to conclusively establish whether the two interventions have different or equivalent effects. It was suggested mental health services that deliver treatment for comorbid insomnia with CBT may improve recovery outcomes for older adults with depression. Future CBT-I programs for older adults may be improved by increasing the length of therapy (e.g., 8 sessions to 12 sessions), adding multi-dimensional learning opportunities (e.g., visual/audio/mentorship), and offering various modes of treatment delivery (e.g., group, individual, internet, telephone).
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
Applying prospect-refuge theory to a local environment : My house and the nature strip outside my house
- Authors: Ryan, Vin
- Date: 2016
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Jay Appleton’s prospect-refuge theory asserts that there are innate, evolutionary factors that influence how we respond to the landscapes around us. Appleton identifies an instinctive desire for prospect and refuge as significant factors that influence the way that we read and respond to our surroundings. Appleton’s notion of prospect is one that encapsulates our desire to seek opportunity and interest from our surroundings. His notion of refuge refers to a desire to seek safety and shelter from within the same environment. Where Appleton seeks meaning from historical notions of landscape, subsequent writers and practitioners have applied prospect-refuge theory to broader categories that encapsulate a notion of environment, this is particularly the case within the field of architecture. Since prospect-refuge theory is largely forgotten within the field of fine art, this project seeks to test its currency as an applicable and useful tool for a contemporary visual art practitioner. My aim here is to test the limits of prospect-refuge theory by applying its universal principles to a set of parochial and idiosyncratic concerns that form part of my visual arts practice. Specifically I look at a personal set of associations that I have with the spaces of my suburban home and nature strip. I seek to use prospect-refuge theory as a means through which to contextualise these personal responses within a broader and more complex discourse.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Ryan, Vin
- Date: 2016
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Jay Appleton’s prospect-refuge theory asserts that there are innate, evolutionary factors that influence how we respond to the landscapes around us. Appleton identifies an instinctive desire for prospect and refuge as significant factors that influence the way that we read and respond to our surroundings. Appleton’s notion of prospect is one that encapsulates our desire to seek opportunity and interest from our surroundings. His notion of refuge refers to a desire to seek safety and shelter from within the same environment. Where Appleton seeks meaning from historical notions of landscape, subsequent writers and practitioners have applied prospect-refuge theory to broader categories that encapsulate a notion of environment, this is particularly the case within the field of architecture. Since prospect-refuge theory is largely forgotten within the field of fine art, this project seeks to test its currency as an applicable and useful tool for a contemporary visual art practitioner. My aim here is to test the limits of prospect-refuge theory by applying its universal principles to a set of parochial and idiosyncratic concerns that form part of my visual arts practice. Specifically I look at a personal set of associations that I have with the spaces of my suburban home and nature strip. I seek to use prospect-refuge theory as a means through which to contextualise these personal responses within a broader and more complex discourse.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
Site, substance and sensation
- Authors: Ryan, Leonie
- Date: 2016
- Type: Text , Thesis , Masters
- Full Text:
- Description: The idea that experiencing the world is a straightforward uncomplicated matter is challenged in a contemporary postmodern context. The empirical notion that reality can be experienced firsthand has been mostly abandoned in favour of the view that reality is constructed through language and culture. Indeed, most views of the world carry a bias, whether conscious or unconscious, which affects all that is encountered. It is not possible to separate the observable world from the person observing it nor to report on the world without already having a position on how it functions. As such ‘meaning’, in this body of research, is found in the awareness that the past informs and shapes the experience of the present moment. This is activated through a heightened sensory awareness of various stimuli, set up through the artworks, which draw distant, past associations into the present consciousness. Through practice led research I am creating the conditions within which the visitor can develop a heightened awareness of their associations through sensory experience and discover that those associations are always tethered to the past, shaping the ways in which they encounter the world. It is my objective through this project to open the way for a better understanding of the Self in relation to Being (consciousness), in a phenomenological sense, through this heightened sensory awareness. The practical outcomes of this research have been developed through a creative exploration of the sensorial world. In this project I posit that we do not draw meaning from the physical, material world itself but rather, meaning is located in our understanding that the physical world is brought into being through our consciousness of it.
- Description: Master of Art by Research
- Authors: Ryan, Leonie
- Date: 2016
- Type: Text , Thesis , Masters
- Full Text:
- Description: The idea that experiencing the world is a straightforward uncomplicated matter is challenged in a contemporary postmodern context. The empirical notion that reality can be experienced firsthand has been mostly abandoned in favour of the view that reality is constructed through language and culture. Indeed, most views of the world carry a bias, whether conscious or unconscious, which affects all that is encountered. It is not possible to separate the observable world from the person observing it nor to report on the world without already having a position on how it functions. As such ‘meaning’, in this body of research, is found in the awareness that the past informs and shapes the experience of the present moment. This is activated through a heightened sensory awareness of various stimuli, set up through the artworks, which draw distant, past associations into the present consciousness. Through practice led research I am creating the conditions within which the visitor can develop a heightened awareness of their associations through sensory experience and discover that those associations are always tethered to the past, shaping the ways in which they encounter the world. It is my objective through this project to open the way for a better understanding of the Self in relation to Being (consciousness), in a phenomenological sense, through this heightened sensory awareness. The practical outcomes of this research have been developed through a creative exploration of the sensorial world. In this project I posit that we do not draw meaning from the physical, material world itself but rather, meaning is located in our understanding that the physical world is brought into being through our consciousness of it.
- Description: Master of Art by Research
University education for all : teaching and learning practices for diverse groups of students
- Authors: Ryan, Janette
- Date: 2002
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Doctor of Education
- Authors: Ryan, Janette
- Date: 2002
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Doctor of Education
Action research and occupational health and safety: an exploratory study
- Authors: Runnalls, John
- Date: 2000
- Type: Text , Thesis , Masters
- Full Text: false
- Description: "This paper describes an exploratory study into action research and its potential application within the field of Occuptional Health and Safety (OHS) in Australia."
- Description: Master of Applied Science
- Authors: Runnalls, John
- Date: 2000
- Type: Text , Thesis , Masters
- Full Text: false
- Description: "This paper describes an exploratory study into action research and its potential application within the field of Occuptional Health and Safety (OHS) in Australia."
- Description: Master of Applied Science
Effects of AS/ISO-9000 on OH&S performance in Australian manufacturing organisations : 1990-1994
- Authors: Royce, Philip
- Date: 1995
- Type: Text , Thesis , Masters
- Full Text:
- Description: "The aim of this exploratory study is to establish the effects of certification to AS/ISO 9000 by Australian manufacturing organisations on their OH&S performance."
- Description: Master of Applied Science
- Authors: Royce, Philip
- Date: 1995
- Type: Text , Thesis , Masters
- Full Text:
- Description: "The aim of this exploratory study is to establish the effects of certification to AS/ISO 9000 by Australian manufacturing organisations on their OH&S performance."
- Description: Master of Applied Science
An identification of the meanings(s) of 'development' in a Chinese village context : The first piece of a jigsaw puzzle
- Authors: Roy, Cameron
- Date: 2012
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: This thesis examines the meaning(s) of ‘development’ within a rural village in Sichuan province, China... Importantly, this thesis is a unique snapshot account containing grassroots stories about what development means from the voice and perspective of average Han villagers in a single village in contemporary rural China. (Taken from Abstract)
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Roy, Cameron
- Date: 2012
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: This thesis examines the meaning(s) of ‘development’ within a rural village in Sichuan province, China... Importantly, this thesis is a unique snapshot account containing grassroots stories about what development means from the voice and perspective of average Han villagers in a single village in contemporary rural China. (Taken from Abstract)
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
Video game classification in Australia : Does it enable parents to make informed game choices for their children
- Authors: Ross, Julie
- Date: 2016
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: If Australian video game classification does not warn of all classifiable elements, parents may be making game choices that inadvertently expose their child to content that may be deemed inappropriate. Research shows that classification in the United States of America (USA) does not always warn of all elements, and to date there has been no comparable research in Australia. This research explored issues surrounding video game classification in Australia, and whether parents feel that provides enough information for them to make informed game choices, by asking the following questions: 1. Does video game classification in Australia provide enough information for parents to make informed decisions about what games their children play? 2. What are the factors that may prevent parents from protecting children from inappropriate content in video games? To answer the first question, a content analysis compared the classification given to video games classified ‘MA15+’ in Australia during the years 2009 - 2010 with their overseas counterparts. Results showed that a substantial number of video games in Australia carry different classification information than those overseas. To answer the second question, a mixed-methods questionnaire surveyed parents of children who played video games to explore issues surrounding video game classification, and the role it plays when making game choices for children. A quasi-longitudinal process within the questionnaire explored the effect that more detailed information has on game choices. Results showed that some parents use classification to assist them with choosing games for their child, but when presented with more information some parents will make different choices. Factors which may prevent parents from protecting their child from inappropriate content in video games were also identified. The Protection Motivation Theory underpinning this research was modified to produce the Vigilant Protection Motivation Theory. Overall, this research suggests that parents in Australia may not have enough information to make appropriate game choices.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Ross, Julie
- Date: 2016
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: If Australian video game classification does not warn of all classifiable elements, parents may be making game choices that inadvertently expose their child to content that may be deemed inappropriate. Research shows that classification in the United States of America (USA) does not always warn of all elements, and to date there has been no comparable research in Australia. This research explored issues surrounding video game classification in Australia, and whether parents feel that provides enough information for them to make informed game choices, by asking the following questions: 1. Does video game classification in Australia provide enough information for parents to make informed decisions about what games their children play? 2. What are the factors that may prevent parents from protecting children from inappropriate content in video games? To answer the first question, a content analysis compared the classification given to video games classified ‘MA15+’ in Australia during the years 2009 - 2010 with their overseas counterparts. Results showed that a substantial number of video games in Australia carry different classification information than those overseas. To answer the second question, a mixed-methods questionnaire surveyed parents of children who played video games to explore issues surrounding video game classification, and the role it plays when making game choices for children. A quasi-longitudinal process within the questionnaire explored the effect that more detailed information has on game choices. Results showed that some parents use classification to assist them with choosing games for their child, but when presented with more information some parents will make different choices. Factors which may prevent parents from protecting their child from inappropriate content in video games were also identified. The Protection Motivation Theory underpinning this research was modified to produce the Vigilant Protection Motivation Theory. Overall, this research suggests that parents in Australia may not have enough information to make appropriate game choices.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
Assessing productive soil - landscapes in Victoria using digital soil mapping
- Authors: Robinson, Nathan
- Date: 2016
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Spatial soil information is used to support questions on agriculture and the environment from global to local scales. Historically, soil mapping has been used to inform and guide a multitude of land users with their decisions. Demand for specific spatial soil information is increasing in response from a wider range of users operating across agricultural and environmental domains. To satisfy these demands, users must be provided with practical and relevant spatial soil information. Novel approaches are required to deal with global deficiencies in available soil information. A major limitation to this is the plethora of incongruent legacy data with poor spatial and temporal coverage. This research study initially identifies the specific needs of users for spatial soil information with a focus on the requirements of biophysical modellers. Secondly, error sources that hamper Digital Soil Mapping (DSM) are identified, described and assessed using pH in practical and relevant examples. A final aim is to spatially predict soil properties (e.g. clay mineralogy) that underpin soil chemical behaviour. This is achieved by harmonising legacy data in combination with new spectroscopy techniques and a spatial inference approach. The spatial soil information needs of biophysical modellers in Victoria, Australia were found to be consistent with global needs for information including soil water characteristics, organic carbon and effective rooting depth. To accommodate stochastic and epistemic uncertainties in spatial soil information, uncertainty frameworks proved effective to deal with, and understand the limitations of legacy data in spatial inference models. Robust and reliable spectroscopic models for properties that are linked to functions and services delivered by soil were achieved and used in 3D spatial models. These findings will enable a tactical response through the delivery of pertinent spatial soil information that is contemporary, quality assured and sought by users. Learnings presented should enable producers of spatial soil information to be more comprehensive in their delivery of products that are easy to use, accessible and understood by a growing user community.
- Description: Doctor of Philosphy
- Authors: Robinson, Nathan
- Date: 2016
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Spatial soil information is used to support questions on agriculture and the environment from global to local scales. Historically, soil mapping has been used to inform and guide a multitude of land users with their decisions. Demand for specific spatial soil information is increasing in response from a wider range of users operating across agricultural and environmental domains. To satisfy these demands, users must be provided with practical and relevant spatial soil information. Novel approaches are required to deal with global deficiencies in available soil information. A major limitation to this is the plethora of incongruent legacy data with poor spatial and temporal coverage. This research study initially identifies the specific needs of users for spatial soil information with a focus on the requirements of biophysical modellers. Secondly, error sources that hamper Digital Soil Mapping (DSM) are identified, described and assessed using pH in practical and relevant examples. A final aim is to spatially predict soil properties (e.g. clay mineralogy) that underpin soil chemical behaviour. This is achieved by harmonising legacy data in combination with new spectroscopy techniques and a spatial inference approach. The spatial soil information needs of biophysical modellers in Victoria, Australia were found to be consistent with global needs for information including soil water characteristics, organic carbon and effective rooting depth. To accommodate stochastic and epistemic uncertainties in spatial soil information, uncertainty frameworks proved effective to deal with, and understand the limitations of legacy data in spatial inference models. Robust and reliable spectroscopic models for properties that are linked to functions and services delivered by soil were achieved and used in 3D spatial models. These findings will enable a tactical response through the delivery of pertinent spatial soil information that is contemporary, quality assured and sought by users. Learnings presented should enable producers of spatial soil information to be more comprehensive in their delivery of products that are easy to use, accessible and understood by a growing user community.
- Description: Doctor of Philosphy
Avenue and Arch : Ballarat's commemoration. How are community attitudes to war and peace reflected in the civic management of the Avenue of Honour and the Arch of Victory?
- Authors: Roberts, Philip
- Date: 2018
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: This thesis examines the importance of memory, commemoration, heritage and militarism in relation to Ballarat’s Avenue of Honour and Arch of Victory. Inspired by Ken Inglis and other historians who have analysed war commemoration, the thesis argues that, led by the Lucas clothing company, Ballarat civic leaders and community members commemorated the war service and sacrifice of local soldiers, airmen, sailors and nurses by planting the 22-kilometre Avenue during 1917–19 and by constructing the prominent Arch in 1920. Although Ballarat voted against conscription in 1916 and 1917 and was a ‘divided’ society, the Avenue and Arch were able to unite members of the local community. From the 1920s, through memory and mythology during the civic maintenance of the Avenue and Arch, Australian community attitudes to war and peace were reflected, and a determined effort was made to remember the service and sacrifice of military personnel for all Australian wars. Discussion of the need for peace remained in the background until recent years. Important influences on the civic management were the collective memory of the so-called Lucas Girls, a group of former female employees of the Lucas clothing company, and of the members of the Arch of Victory/Avenue of Honour Committee. Increasingly, the embracing of the Anzac legend and an emphasis on loss and grief was reflected in the civic management. By 2017 the Avenue and Arch were in pristine condition and, through the Garden of the Grieving Mother, had transformed to symbolise the importance of remembering the sacrifices and grief of war and the need for peace. The project was based on documentary research and oral history, using an examination of newspaper and other documentary accounts from 1917–2017, a study of Arch of Victory/Avenue of Honour Committee papers and conservation management plans, research of relevant books and articles, landscape fieldwork and interviews with 26 people.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Roberts, Philip
- Date: 2018
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: This thesis examines the importance of memory, commemoration, heritage and militarism in relation to Ballarat’s Avenue of Honour and Arch of Victory. Inspired by Ken Inglis and other historians who have analysed war commemoration, the thesis argues that, led by the Lucas clothing company, Ballarat civic leaders and community members commemorated the war service and sacrifice of local soldiers, airmen, sailors and nurses by planting the 22-kilometre Avenue during 1917–19 and by constructing the prominent Arch in 1920. Although Ballarat voted against conscription in 1916 and 1917 and was a ‘divided’ society, the Avenue and Arch were able to unite members of the local community. From the 1920s, through memory and mythology during the civic maintenance of the Avenue and Arch, Australian community attitudes to war and peace were reflected, and a determined effort was made to remember the service and sacrifice of military personnel for all Australian wars. Discussion of the need for peace remained in the background until recent years. Important influences on the civic management were the collective memory of the so-called Lucas Girls, a group of former female employees of the Lucas clothing company, and of the members of the Arch of Victory/Avenue of Honour Committee. Increasingly, the embracing of the Anzac legend and an emphasis on loss and grief was reflected in the civic management. By 2017 the Avenue and Arch were in pristine condition and, through the Garden of the Grieving Mother, had transformed to symbolise the importance of remembering the sacrifices and grief of war and the need for peace. The project was based on documentary research and oral history, using an examination of newspaper and other documentary accounts from 1917–2017, a study of Arch of Victory/Avenue of Honour Committee papers and conservation management plans, research of relevant books and articles, landscape fieldwork and interviews with 26 people.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
Resistance training efficiency : The efficacy of paired sets
- Authors: Robbins, Daniel
- Date: 2009
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: A paired set (PS) refers to the coupling of exercises targeting agonist-antagonist muscle groups and performed coincidentally. Although PS have been prescribed by strength and conditioning coaches as a means of developing strength and power, scientific research investigating their efficacy is limited. The aim of this research was to investigate not only the efficacy of PS, but also their efficiency.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Robbins, Daniel
- Date: 2009
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: A paired set (PS) refers to the coupling of exercises targeting agonist-antagonist muscle groups and performed coincidentally. Although PS have been prescribed by strength and conditioning coaches as a means of developing strength and power, scientific research investigating their efficacy is limited. The aim of this research was to investigate not only the efficacy of PS, but also their efficiency.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
The effect of an eight week jump training program performed on indoor and sand surfaces on verticle jump performance in elite volleyball players
- Authors: Riggs, Michael
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Thesis , Masters
- Full Text:
- Description: Purpose – The main purpose of this study was to determine the effect of an 8-week jump training program, completed on either a hard or sand surface, on vertical jump performance in elite volleyball players. It was of major interest to determine if training on one surface yielded meaningful gains on the other surface. Further, this study sought to determine if the short term jump training program was effective for developing leg muscle function. Method – Eighteen elite national and state volleyball players were split into two groups and trained on either a hard surface (HS, n=10) or a sand surface (SS, n=8). The participants completed 1380 jumps during the 8-week training program progressing from 120-jumps/week to 240-jumps/week. Participants were assessed on both a hard and a sand surface, pre and post training, on volleyball performance tests the block jump (BJ), spike jump (SPJ), as well as leg muscle function via ground reaction force (GRF) data collected during countermovement jump (CMJ), squat jump (SJ) and drop jump (DJ) performance. Results – The HS group demonstrated significant gains in jump height for BJ on the hard surface (2.6%, p= 0.033) and sand surface (6.7%, p= 0.019) while the SS group only made significant gains in BJ on the sand surface (9.8%, p= 0.009). Neither group demonstrated significant (p<0.05) gains in SPJ performance. Strong correlations between pre intervention BJ and SPJ data suggested a level of consistency in the participants jumping ability regardless of the type of surface or skill (jump). GRF data demonstrated that leg muscle function predictors accounted for 86-89% of the variance associated with volleyball performance jump tests (BJ, SPJ). Conclusion – The 8-week jump training program did not greatly improve the overall vertical jump performance of elite volleyball players. It appears surface does impact performance directly but any gains made from training on either surface are not necessarily isolated to performance on the same surface being trained on. Interestingly, SPJ performance did not demonstrate a strong link to DJ variables, in fact, within this study it appears that the skill of performing a BJ and SPJ are closely related, both rely heavily upon concentric power and this is part of why such strong correlations were seen between the two jump types.
- Description: Masters of Human Movement
- Authors: Riggs, Michael
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Thesis , Masters
- Full Text:
- Description: Purpose – The main purpose of this study was to determine the effect of an 8-week jump training program, completed on either a hard or sand surface, on vertical jump performance in elite volleyball players. It was of major interest to determine if training on one surface yielded meaningful gains on the other surface. Further, this study sought to determine if the short term jump training program was effective for developing leg muscle function. Method – Eighteen elite national and state volleyball players were split into two groups and trained on either a hard surface (HS, n=10) or a sand surface (SS, n=8). The participants completed 1380 jumps during the 8-week training program progressing from 120-jumps/week to 240-jumps/week. Participants were assessed on both a hard and a sand surface, pre and post training, on volleyball performance tests the block jump (BJ), spike jump (SPJ), as well as leg muscle function via ground reaction force (GRF) data collected during countermovement jump (CMJ), squat jump (SJ) and drop jump (DJ) performance. Results – The HS group demonstrated significant gains in jump height for BJ on the hard surface (2.6%, p= 0.033) and sand surface (6.7%, p= 0.019) while the SS group only made significant gains in BJ on the sand surface (9.8%, p= 0.009). Neither group demonstrated significant (p<0.05) gains in SPJ performance. Strong correlations between pre intervention BJ and SPJ data suggested a level of consistency in the participants jumping ability regardless of the type of surface or skill (jump). GRF data demonstrated that leg muscle function predictors accounted for 86-89% of the variance associated with volleyball performance jump tests (BJ, SPJ). Conclusion – The 8-week jump training program did not greatly improve the overall vertical jump performance of elite volleyball players. It appears surface does impact performance directly but any gains made from training on either surface are not necessarily isolated to performance on the same surface being trained on. Interestingly, SPJ performance did not demonstrate a strong link to DJ variables, in fact, within this study it appears that the skill of performing a BJ and SPJ are closely related, both rely heavily upon concentric power and this is part of why such strong correlations were seen between the two jump types.
- Description: Masters of Human Movement
Get the picture without a sermon : Enhancing a congreation's work and worship through (re)visioning the church - art relationship
- Authors: Rigby, John
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Thesis
- Full Text:
- Description: The church, throughout its history and motivated by the teachings of the Bible, has sought to assist people in finding meaning and direction in life. To this end it has used visual art to help people understand its message and increase people’s openness to the Bible’s redemptive story. After the Reformation, the emergent Protestant church had a more tenuous relationship with visual art, giving priority to oral forms of communication. Many small protestant congregations in current multi-faith Australia have little relationship with visual art and struggle to convey their message to the Australian society. A renewal of the church’s relationship with visual art is needed. This thesis including the exhibition employs a theology of creativity, hermeneutical skills and artistic reflection to illustrate how a (re)visioning of the church-art relationship can help the church in its work and worship.
- Description: Master of Arts (Visual Arts) by Research
- Authors: Rigby, John
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Thesis
- Full Text:
- Description: The church, throughout its history and motivated by the teachings of the Bible, has sought to assist people in finding meaning and direction in life. To this end it has used visual art to help people understand its message and increase people’s openness to the Bible’s redemptive story. After the Reformation, the emergent Protestant church had a more tenuous relationship with visual art, giving priority to oral forms of communication. Many small protestant congregations in current multi-faith Australia have little relationship with visual art and struggle to convey their message to the Australian society. A renewal of the church’s relationship with visual art is needed. This thesis including the exhibition employs a theology of creativity, hermeneutical skills and artistic reflection to illustrate how a (re)visioning of the church-art relationship can help the church in its work and worship.
- Description: Master of Arts (Visual Arts) by Research
A locale of the cosmos : an epic of the Wimmera : exegesis and text
- Authors: Rieth, Homer Manfred
- Date: 2006
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: "This project has, for its central component, an epic poem, 'A locale of the cosmos'. The accompanying exegesis examines epic as an ancient, but continually evolving form. It argues that, as a contemporary example of the genre and, as a sustained poetic rumination on landscape and memory, 'A locale of the cosmos' represents a significant development within the modern tradition of autobiographical epic. In broader terms, 'A locale of the cosmos' privileges the landscape and history of a region of Australia, the Wimmera region of north-western Victoria and, in doing so, explores the cumulative effects of the physical environment as a site for sustained poetic treatment. The poem is, therefore, an epic of both historical narrative and philosophical reflection, giving meaning to and interpreting ideas of space, place and locale. "Furthermore, it explores, in particular, the psychological and spiritual effects of vast horizontal distances, created by a landscape in which endless plains and immense horizons form an analogue of the wider cosmos. The poem's themes, therefore, bear not only on the prominences of the visible locale, but also explore the salients of an interior world, a landscape of the mind to which the poetry gives shape and meaning."
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Rieth, Homer Manfred
- Date: 2006
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: "This project has, for its central component, an epic poem, 'A locale of the cosmos'. The accompanying exegesis examines epic as an ancient, but continually evolving form. It argues that, as a contemporary example of the genre and, as a sustained poetic rumination on landscape and memory, 'A locale of the cosmos' represents a significant development within the modern tradition of autobiographical epic. In broader terms, 'A locale of the cosmos' privileges the landscape and history of a region of Australia, the Wimmera region of north-western Victoria and, in doing so, explores the cumulative effects of the physical environment as a site for sustained poetic treatment. The poem is, therefore, an epic of both historical narrative and philosophical reflection, giving meaning to and interpreting ideas of space, place and locale. "Furthermore, it explores, in particular, the psychological and spiritual effects of vast horizontal distances, created by a landscape in which endless plains and immense horizons form an analogue of the wider cosmos. The poem's themes, therefore, bear not only on the prominences of the visible locale, but also explore the salients of an interior world, a landscape of the mind to which the poetry gives shape and meaning."
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
A study of recovery and separation of heavy metal ions from waste solutions using precipitate flotation
- Authors: Ren, Xiang (Sean)
- Date: 1999
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text: false
- Description: An important industrial problem is the production of wastewater containing a large amount of heavy metal ions. The study described in this thesis is trying to use precipitate flotation technology to explore techniques for not only removing heavy metal ions from the solution, but also selectively separating them to recycle of the recoyered metal value from industry wastewater. Zinc and copper hydroxide precipitation and flotation behaviour have been studied. lt shows that it is almost impossible to separate copper and zinc ion using hydroxide precipitate flotation when the solution contains Fe3+ or Al3+ ions. The influence of additional ions such as Ca2+ and Mg2+, and other electrolytes on the flotation and separation have been studied. DLVO theory has been used to explain the mechanisms occurring in the process. A new process, named "self-carrier" precipitate flotation us~g anionic surfactants, has been developed to improve the flotation recovery and reduce the consumption of collector. The mechanism of the process is discussed in detail with reference to data collected from Optical Microscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy and Zeta Potential Measurement. The xanthates are the most commonly used class of sulphide mineral collectors. This study investigated the copper sulphide precipitate reactions and the aggregation behaviour, the influence of oxidation, additional ions etc., and successfully used xanthate to float the sulphide precipitates. The mechanisms occurring in this process have been discussed. The investigation of the sulphide precipitate flotation behavior using a cationic collector has also been carried out to discover the possibility of copper and zinc separation. An important application of this study is the flotation and separation of copper and zinc ions from industry wastewater. The tailing wastewater from a mineral processing plant, Woodlawn Mines (N.S.W., Australia), which contains high concentrations of harmful heavy metal ions was used to test the flotation and separation of the heavy metal ions. Both xanthate and cationic collectors have been investigated for the flotation separation. Effective separation has been achieved .
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Ren, Xiang (Sean)
- Date: 1999
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text: false
- Description: An important industrial problem is the production of wastewater containing a large amount of heavy metal ions. The study described in this thesis is trying to use precipitate flotation technology to explore techniques for not only removing heavy metal ions from the solution, but also selectively separating them to recycle of the recoyered metal value from industry wastewater. Zinc and copper hydroxide precipitation and flotation behaviour have been studied. lt shows that it is almost impossible to separate copper and zinc ion using hydroxide precipitate flotation when the solution contains Fe3+ or Al3+ ions. The influence of additional ions such as Ca2+ and Mg2+, and other electrolytes on the flotation and separation have been studied. DLVO theory has been used to explain the mechanisms occurring in the process. A new process, named "self-carrier" precipitate flotation us~g anionic surfactants, has been developed to improve the flotation recovery and reduce the consumption of collector. The mechanism of the process is discussed in detail with reference to data collected from Optical Microscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy and Zeta Potential Measurement. The xanthates are the most commonly used class of sulphide mineral collectors. This study investigated the copper sulphide precipitate reactions and the aggregation behaviour, the influence of oxidation, additional ions etc., and successfully used xanthate to float the sulphide precipitates. The mechanisms occurring in this process have been discussed. The investigation of the sulphide precipitate flotation behavior using a cationic collector has also been carried out to discover the possibility of copper and zinc separation. An important application of this study is the flotation and separation of copper and zinc ions from industry wastewater. The tailing wastewater from a mineral processing plant, Woodlawn Mines (N.S.W., Australia), which contains high concentrations of harmful heavy metal ions was used to test the flotation and separation of the heavy metal ions. Both xanthate and cationic collectors have been investigated for the flotation separation. Effective separation has been achieved .
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
A hand made wood object : Studio investigation into transformed nature
- Authors: Rein, Jeannette
- Date: 2016
- Type: Text , Thesis , Masters
- Full Text:
- Description: This research explores the importance of retaining traditional hand skills in terms of their relevance to contemporary and future art practice. I examine the hand made and the process of transforming timber into a wooden sculptural form. I investigate how the artist thinks with the material, and how this process gives the artist the ‘sight’ to identify new and original possibilities. Furthermore, I explore how the transformative approach perpetuates new knowledge, and how skills are modified and adapted to suit the changes. I describe this as a dialogic process. The research examines the correlation between the transformative process and the hand made object, the imprint of the maker and how their memories of the processes used, remain embedded in the object. In addition, this research investigates the transformation processes used in creating an object, to provide individualisation within our highly mechanised world, while providing a bridge connecting the past and the future. Through the examination of traditional hand skills, I demonstrate how such skills provide an anchor, a standard of quality and artisanship that connects artists from traditional wood practice, through contemporary praxis, to hand made digital art. My research focuses on the transformation process and traditional hand skills, the vital role they play in the creation of digital hand made objects; as digital processes utilize new materials, processes and machinery that interfaces with traditional analogue tools.
- Description: Masters by Research
- Authors: Rein, Jeannette
- Date: 2016
- Type: Text , Thesis , Masters
- Full Text:
- Description: This research explores the importance of retaining traditional hand skills in terms of their relevance to contemporary and future art practice. I examine the hand made and the process of transforming timber into a wooden sculptural form. I investigate how the artist thinks with the material, and how this process gives the artist the ‘sight’ to identify new and original possibilities. Furthermore, I explore how the transformative approach perpetuates new knowledge, and how skills are modified and adapted to suit the changes. I describe this as a dialogic process. The research examines the correlation between the transformative process and the hand made object, the imprint of the maker and how their memories of the processes used, remain embedded in the object. In addition, this research investigates the transformation processes used in creating an object, to provide individualisation within our highly mechanised world, while providing a bridge connecting the past and the future. Through the examination of traditional hand skills, I demonstrate how such skills provide an anchor, a standard of quality and artisanship that connects artists from traditional wood practice, through contemporary praxis, to hand made digital art. My research focuses on the transformation process and traditional hand skills, the vital role they play in the creation of digital hand made objects; as digital processes utilize new materials, processes and machinery that interfaces with traditional analogue tools.
- Description: Masters by Research
Training and testing of 1v1 agility in Australian football
- Authors: Rayner, Russell
- Date: 2020
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Little is known of how agility events occur in the sport of Australian football (AF). As a result, appropriate training and testing methods are unknown. This thesis investigated 1v1 agility in AF to evaluate alternative methods for training and testing agility. The thesis was undertaken in three studies. Study one investigated if training and testing practices used in elite AF align with the demands of competition. A notational analysis revealed substantial variation in movement patterns used by, and the cognitive demands of, athletes in agility events. A survey of high-performance managers in the AFL revealed that a mixture of open and closed training methods are used in elite AF, and that subjective agility assessment is preferred to formal testing. Study two assessed the reliability and ecological validity of a field-based test of attacking and defending agility for AF. The text exhibited excellent inter-rater and intra-rater reliability, as well as moderate test-retest reliability. Characteristics of the test were compared to the notational analysis to assess the ecological validity of the test. While the test did not fully replicate the agility demands of AF, the test improved ecological validity when compared to previous tests described in the literature. Study three evaluated the effectiveness of a four-week 1v1 training intervention for improving attacking and defending agility in Australian footballers. In addition, the study assessed the crossover of attacking training to defending agility and defending training to attacking agility. Improvements in attacking agility were found which were greater for attacking-trained athletes. However, no improvements in defending agility were realised. This thesis indicates that 1v1 training and testing is suitable for assessing and developing agility in Australian footballers. However, 1v1 training may be more suitable for improving attacking agility. Further, agility is context-specific, and testing and training should consider the role of the athlete.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Rayner, Russell
- Date: 2020
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Little is known of how agility events occur in the sport of Australian football (AF). As a result, appropriate training and testing methods are unknown. This thesis investigated 1v1 agility in AF to evaluate alternative methods for training and testing agility. The thesis was undertaken in three studies. Study one investigated if training and testing practices used in elite AF align with the demands of competition. A notational analysis revealed substantial variation in movement patterns used by, and the cognitive demands of, athletes in agility events. A survey of high-performance managers in the AFL revealed that a mixture of open and closed training methods are used in elite AF, and that subjective agility assessment is preferred to formal testing. Study two assessed the reliability and ecological validity of a field-based test of attacking and defending agility for AF. The text exhibited excellent inter-rater and intra-rater reliability, as well as moderate test-retest reliability. Characteristics of the test were compared to the notational analysis to assess the ecological validity of the test. While the test did not fully replicate the agility demands of AF, the test improved ecological validity when compared to previous tests described in the literature. Study three evaluated the effectiveness of a four-week 1v1 training intervention for improving attacking and defending agility in Australian footballers. In addition, the study assessed the crossover of attacking training to defending agility and defending training to attacking agility. Improvements in attacking agility were found which were greater for attacking-trained athletes. However, no improvements in defending agility were realised. This thesis indicates that 1v1 training and testing is suitable for assessing and developing agility in Australian footballers. However, 1v1 training may be more suitable for improving attacking agility. Further, agility is context-specific, and testing and training should consider the role of the athlete.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
False data injection attack detection in smart grid
- Authors: Rashed, Muhammad
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Smart grid is a distributed and autonomous energy delivery infrastructure that constantly monitors the operational state of its overall network using smart techniques and state estimation. State estimation is a powerful technique that is used to determine the overall operational state of the system based on a limited set of measurements collected through metering systems. Cyber-attacks pose serious risks to a smart grid state estimation that can cause disruptions and power outages resulting in huge economical losses and are therefore a big concern to a reliable national grid operation. False data injection attacks (FDIAs), engineered on the basis of the knowledge of the network configuration, are difficult to detect using the traditional data detection mechanisms. These detection schemes have been found vulnerable and failed to detect these FDIAs. FDIAs specifically target the state data and can manipulate the state measurements in such a way that these false measurements appear real to the main control systems. This research work explores the possibility of FDIA detection using state estimation in a distributed and partitioned smart grid. In order to detect FDIAs we use measurements for residual-based testing which creates an objective function; and the probability of erroneous data is determined from this residual test. In this test, a preset threshold is determined based on the prior history of the state data. FDIA cases are simulated within a smart grid considering that the Chi-square detection state estimator fails in identifying such attacks. We compute the objective function using the standard weighted least problem and then test the objective function against the value in the Chi-square table. The gain matrix and the Jacobian matrix are computed. The state variables are computed in the form of a voltage magnitude. The state variables are computed after the inception of an attack to assess these state magnitude results. Different sizes of partitioning are used to improve the overall sensitivity of the Chi-square results. Our additional estimator is based on a Kalman estimation that consists of the state prediction and state correction steps. In the first step, it obtains the state and matrix covariance prediction, and in the second step, it calculates the Kalman gain and the state and matrix covariance update steps. The set of points is created for the state vector x at a time instant t. The initial vector and covariance matrix are based on a priori knowledge of the historical estimates. A set of sigma points is estimated by the state update function. Sigma points refer to the minimal set of sampling points that are selected and transformed using nonlinear function, and the new mean and the covariance are formed out of these transformed points. The idea behind this is that it is easier to compute a Gaussian distribution than an arbitrary nonlinear function. The filter gain, the mean and the covariance are used to estimate the next state. Our simulation results show that the combination of Kalman estimation and distributed state estimation improves the overall stability index and vulnerability assessment score of the smart grid. We built a stability index table for a smart grid based on the state estimates value after the inception of an FDIA. The vulnerability assessment score of the smart grid is based on common vulnerability scoring system (CVSS) and state estimates under the influence of an FDIA. The simulations are conducted in the MATPOWER program and different electrical bus systems such as IEEE 14, 30, 39, 118 and 300 are tested. All the contributions have been published in reputable journals and conferences.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Rashed, Muhammad
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Smart grid is a distributed and autonomous energy delivery infrastructure that constantly monitors the operational state of its overall network using smart techniques and state estimation. State estimation is a powerful technique that is used to determine the overall operational state of the system based on a limited set of measurements collected through metering systems. Cyber-attacks pose serious risks to a smart grid state estimation that can cause disruptions and power outages resulting in huge economical losses and are therefore a big concern to a reliable national grid operation. False data injection attacks (FDIAs), engineered on the basis of the knowledge of the network configuration, are difficult to detect using the traditional data detection mechanisms. These detection schemes have been found vulnerable and failed to detect these FDIAs. FDIAs specifically target the state data and can manipulate the state measurements in such a way that these false measurements appear real to the main control systems. This research work explores the possibility of FDIA detection using state estimation in a distributed and partitioned smart grid. In order to detect FDIAs we use measurements for residual-based testing which creates an objective function; and the probability of erroneous data is determined from this residual test. In this test, a preset threshold is determined based on the prior history of the state data. FDIA cases are simulated within a smart grid considering that the Chi-square detection state estimator fails in identifying such attacks. We compute the objective function using the standard weighted least problem and then test the objective function against the value in the Chi-square table. The gain matrix and the Jacobian matrix are computed. The state variables are computed in the form of a voltage magnitude. The state variables are computed after the inception of an attack to assess these state magnitude results. Different sizes of partitioning are used to improve the overall sensitivity of the Chi-square results. Our additional estimator is based on a Kalman estimation that consists of the state prediction and state correction steps. In the first step, it obtains the state and matrix covariance prediction, and in the second step, it calculates the Kalman gain and the state and matrix covariance update steps. The set of points is created for the state vector x at a time instant t. The initial vector and covariance matrix are based on a priori knowledge of the historical estimates. A set of sigma points is estimated by the state update function. Sigma points refer to the minimal set of sampling points that are selected and transformed using nonlinear function, and the new mean and the covariance are formed out of these transformed points. The idea behind this is that it is easier to compute a Gaussian distribution than an arbitrary nonlinear function. The filter gain, the mean and the covariance are used to estimate the next state. Our simulation results show that the combination of Kalman estimation and distributed state estimation improves the overall stability index and vulnerability assessment score of the smart grid. We built a stability index table for a smart grid based on the state estimates value after the inception of an FDIA. The vulnerability assessment score of the smart grid is based on common vulnerability scoring system (CVSS) and state estimates under the influence of an FDIA. The simulations are conducted in the MATPOWER program and different electrical bus systems such as IEEE 14, 30, 39, 118 and 300 are tested. All the contributions have been published in reputable journals and conferences.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
Lime stabilisation of an Australian silty clay and its application in construction of excavation retaining walls by cutter soil mixing
- Authors: Ranjbar Pouya, Kaveh
- Date: 2018
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Coode Island Silt (CIS) is one of the predominant geological units in Melbourne, Australia. Having high compressibility and low shear strength, CIS is considered a problematic soft soil that challenges the construction of infrastructure in the region. To tackle such challenges, one practical approach is the application of ground improvement techniques such as in situ soil mixing. This PhD study focuses on the application of Cutter Soil Mixing (CSM) for the construction of excavation retaining walls in CIS. Although cement is widely used in most CSM projects, this study investigates the suitability of different lime types available in the Australian market as a potential alternative to cement for the stabilisation of CIS. To investigate the effect of lime stabilisation, a comprehensive geotechnical characterisation of untreated and lime treated CIS is performed. Four different lime types are used: agricultural lime, quicklime, hydrated lime and slag lime. Based on the results obtained from strength tests, slag lime was found to be the most effective among the four types that were tested. The optimum slag lime to CIS ratio is then found for the construction of retaining walls in CIS. Having the geotechnical characterisation of untreated and treated CIS from the laboratory experiments, a series of two-dimensional and three-dimensional finite element method (FEM) analyses were conducted to investigate the applicability and reliability of the selected mixing ratio for the construction of CSM excavation retaining walls in CIS. A nonlinear constitutive soil model was employed, calibrated and verified to be used in FEM analyses to investigate both the stability factor of safety and excavation-induced deformations. The results obtained for both undrained and fully coupled flow deformation analyses prove that CSM panels can be constructed by mixing slag lime and CIS to act as retaining walls to allow for deep excavation in CIS.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Ranjbar Pouya, Kaveh
- Date: 2018
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Coode Island Silt (CIS) is one of the predominant geological units in Melbourne, Australia. Having high compressibility and low shear strength, CIS is considered a problematic soft soil that challenges the construction of infrastructure in the region. To tackle such challenges, one practical approach is the application of ground improvement techniques such as in situ soil mixing. This PhD study focuses on the application of Cutter Soil Mixing (CSM) for the construction of excavation retaining walls in CIS. Although cement is widely used in most CSM projects, this study investigates the suitability of different lime types available in the Australian market as a potential alternative to cement for the stabilisation of CIS. To investigate the effect of lime stabilisation, a comprehensive geotechnical characterisation of untreated and lime treated CIS is performed. Four different lime types are used: agricultural lime, quicklime, hydrated lime and slag lime. Based on the results obtained from strength tests, slag lime was found to be the most effective among the four types that were tested. The optimum slag lime to CIS ratio is then found for the construction of retaining walls in CIS. Having the geotechnical characterisation of untreated and treated CIS from the laboratory experiments, a series of two-dimensional and three-dimensional finite element method (FEM) analyses were conducted to investigate the applicability and reliability of the selected mixing ratio for the construction of CSM excavation retaining walls in CIS. A nonlinear constitutive soil model was employed, calibrated and verified to be used in FEM analyses to investigate both the stability factor of safety and excavation-induced deformations. The results obtained for both undrained and fully coupled flow deformation analyses prove that CSM panels can be constructed by mixing slag lime and CIS to act as retaining walls to allow for deep excavation in CIS.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
Engagement with voluntary family services : views of parents and practitioners
- Authors: Randall, Mary
- Date: 2021
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: This research aimed to understand engagement with voluntary family services, which has implications for service policy and practice. In regions of high social disadvantage, such as the Inner Gippsland region in the state of Victoria (Australia), engagement with voluntary family services is vital to reduce harm for children. However, barriers to engagement need to be understood from the perspectives of parents and practitioners. While the literature is replete with studies and records on engagement of parents and practitioners with statutory child protective services, there are few studies on engagement for families serviced by voluntary family services, which accept a range of referral sources. To address this gap, this study conducted ten qualitative semi-structured interviews with parents referred to Inner Gippsland family services and seven interviews with practitioners. These were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA). Interview data were supported by quantitative data drawn from voluntary family service system records on service use across the region for 2016–17 and 2017–18. Mixed methods were employed. This study found that these regional and rural practitioners and parents conceived of engagement as open communication, trust, rapport and understanding. Practitioners also discussed engagement occurring at different levels and involving parents’ willingness to change. However, these aspects were not referred to by parents. Practitioners explained that parents may show full or meaningful engagement and set goals to work towards, or they may engage at a superficial level where they consult but do not value change. This indicates that the notion of ‘engagement’ held by parents is dissonant with that of service providers who focus on the documentation of goals and achievements. Factors influencing engagement included parent perceptions, practitioner disposition, power relations, system design and implementation. Parents expected practitioners to clearly explain services that are tailored to meet needs. Some parents were reluctant to engage fully and trust practitioners due to potential harm and the possibility of removal of their children from their care. Parents wanted support without judgement and for practitioners to provide friendly advice and not be authoritarian. Practitioners balanced assessments of child wellbeing with responding to family needs and emphasised empowering clients and relating to them humanely. Many parents did not feel family services were voluntary as they are connected to and mandated to report serious concerns to Child Protection.1 Most parents were reluctant to ask for help and were negatively disposed towards government Child Protection. Parents who self-referred to family services expressed the most willingness to use a service, while those referred by police did not tend to use a service past initial phone calls. Practitioner-documented service hours in the home, an objective indicator of engagement, were highest for families where an early learning or early childhood intervention agency had referred. These findings were consistent with the interview data showing parental reluctance to engage where there was fear of Child Protection intervention. The practices of prioritising cases of complexity or crisis clashed with policy ideals of prevention and early intervention. More complex issues for families in the region increased the likelihood of service availability and use, yet many families did not complete activities negotiated in service plans or engage to make a plan with practitioners. This study demonstrated that for supportive relationships that promote child and family wellbeing to occur in a regional and rural area, family services need to be trusted. Only then, according to parents, will engagement eventuate.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Randall, Mary
- Date: 2021
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: This research aimed to understand engagement with voluntary family services, which has implications for service policy and practice. In regions of high social disadvantage, such as the Inner Gippsland region in the state of Victoria (Australia), engagement with voluntary family services is vital to reduce harm for children. However, barriers to engagement need to be understood from the perspectives of parents and practitioners. While the literature is replete with studies and records on engagement of parents and practitioners with statutory child protective services, there are few studies on engagement for families serviced by voluntary family services, which accept a range of referral sources. To address this gap, this study conducted ten qualitative semi-structured interviews with parents referred to Inner Gippsland family services and seven interviews with practitioners. These were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA). Interview data were supported by quantitative data drawn from voluntary family service system records on service use across the region for 2016–17 and 2017–18. Mixed methods were employed. This study found that these regional and rural practitioners and parents conceived of engagement as open communication, trust, rapport and understanding. Practitioners also discussed engagement occurring at different levels and involving parents’ willingness to change. However, these aspects were not referred to by parents. Practitioners explained that parents may show full or meaningful engagement and set goals to work towards, or they may engage at a superficial level where they consult but do not value change. This indicates that the notion of ‘engagement’ held by parents is dissonant with that of service providers who focus on the documentation of goals and achievements. Factors influencing engagement included parent perceptions, practitioner disposition, power relations, system design and implementation. Parents expected practitioners to clearly explain services that are tailored to meet needs. Some parents were reluctant to engage fully and trust practitioners due to potential harm and the possibility of removal of their children from their care. Parents wanted support without judgement and for practitioners to provide friendly advice and not be authoritarian. Practitioners balanced assessments of child wellbeing with responding to family needs and emphasised empowering clients and relating to them humanely. Many parents did not feel family services were voluntary as they are connected to and mandated to report serious concerns to Child Protection.1 Most parents were reluctant to ask for help and were negatively disposed towards government Child Protection. Parents who self-referred to family services expressed the most willingness to use a service, while those referred by police did not tend to use a service past initial phone calls. Practitioner-documented service hours in the home, an objective indicator of engagement, were highest for families where an early learning or early childhood intervention agency had referred. These findings were consistent with the interview data showing parental reluctance to engage where there was fear of Child Protection intervention. The practices of prioritising cases of complexity or crisis clashed with policy ideals of prevention and early intervention. More complex issues for families in the region increased the likelihood of service availability and use, yet many families did not complete activities negotiated in service plans or engage to make a plan with practitioners. This study demonstrated that for supportive relationships that promote child and family wellbeing to occur in a regional and rural area, family services need to be trusted. Only then, according to parents, will engagement eventuate.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy