Reaching the heart : Assessing & nurturing spiritual well-being via education
- Authors: Fisher, John
- Date: 2008
- Type: Text , Thesis , EdD
- Full Text:
- Description: Several quantitative measures of spiritual well-being were developed with primary and secondary school students and teachers, and university education students, namely the Spiritual Health And Life-Orientation Measure, Feeling Good, Living Life, and the Quality Of Life Influences Survey. Spiritual dissonance was revealed by comparing respondents’ ‘ideals’ with ‘lived experiences’ in four domains of spiritual well-being. Teachers and university education students reported a decline in help being provided in schools to develop the relationships which foster school students’ spiritual well-being.
- Description: Doctor of Education EdD
- Authors: Fisher, John
- Date: 2008
- Type: Text , Thesis , EdD
- Full Text:
- Description: Several quantitative measures of spiritual well-being were developed with primary and secondary school students and teachers, and university education students, namely the Spiritual Health And Life-Orientation Measure, Feeling Good, Living Life, and the Quality Of Life Influences Survey. Spiritual dissonance was revealed by comparing respondents’ ‘ideals’ with ‘lived experiences’ in four domains of spiritual well-being. Teachers and university education students reported a decline in help being provided in schools to develop the relationships which foster school students’ spiritual well-being.
- Description: Doctor of Education EdD
Importance of relating with God for spiritual well-being
- Authors: Fisher, John
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Thesis
- Full Text:
- Description: The importance of relating with God for Spiritual Well-Being Twenty years of research in spiritual health/well-being culminate in this thesis. My PhD (1998), University of Melbourne, presented a Four Domains Model of Spiritual Health/Well-Being. This formed the theoretical base for several spiritual well-being questionnaires, presented in my EdD (2009), University of Ballarat. The main instrument, Spiritual Health And Life-Orientation Measure (SHALOM), proposed a novel method of assessing quality of relationships which are posited as reflecting spiritual well-being. These relationships are of each person with themselves, others, the environment and/or with a Transcendent Other (God). Instead of just investigating lived experiences, SHALOM asks for two responses to each item. Each respondent’s lived experience is compared with their stated ideals. Studies presented herein show that this double-response method, comparing ideal with actual, provides a statistically stronger measure of quality of relationships than lived experiences alone, thus spiritual well-being. Eighteen publications included in this thesis relate to studies of spiritual well-being in educational, healthcare and general community settings. A total of 52 studies, using SHALOM with 41686 people from 27 countries, have shown that, of the four sets of relationships measured by SHALOM, relating with God explains greatest variance in spiritual well-being, so is therefore most important. An international study with people involved with, as well as some opposed to, spirituality and religious education led to a generic form of SHALOM, in which the theistic words were replaced by ‘Transcendent’, with 19 alternatives provided from which to select preferred Transcendent, or none. This project revealed that relating with God, as Transcendent, provides greatest support for a person’s relating with self and others, in contrast to help provided by non-theistic and non-religious Transcendents and not believing in Transcendents. This research implies that researchers need to investigate relationship with God in any study of spiritual well-being, whether or not it fits their personal worldview.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Fisher, John
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Thesis
- Full Text:
- Description: The importance of relating with God for Spiritual Well-Being Twenty years of research in spiritual health/well-being culminate in this thesis. My PhD (1998), University of Melbourne, presented a Four Domains Model of Spiritual Health/Well-Being. This formed the theoretical base for several spiritual well-being questionnaires, presented in my EdD (2009), University of Ballarat. The main instrument, Spiritual Health And Life-Orientation Measure (SHALOM), proposed a novel method of assessing quality of relationships which are posited as reflecting spiritual well-being. These relationships are of each person with themselves, others, the environment and/or with a Transcendent Other (God). Instead of just investigating lived experiences, SHALOM asks for two responses to each item. Each respondent’s lived experience is compared with their stated ideals. Studies presented herein show that this double-response method, comparing ideal with actual, provides a statistically stronger measure of quality of relationships than lived experiences alone, thus spiritual well-being. Eighteen publications included in this thesis relate to studies of spiritual well-being in educational, healthcare and general community settings. A total of 52 studies, using SHALOM with 41686 people from 27 countries, have shown that, of the four sets of relationships measured by SHALOM, relating with God explains greatest variance in spiritual well-being, so is therefore most important. An international study with people involved with, as well as some opposed to, spirituality and religious education led to a generic form of SHALOM, in which the theistic words were replaced by ‘Transcendent’, with 19 alternatives provided from which to select preferred Transcendent, or none. This project revealed that relating with God, as Transcendent, provides greatest support for a person’s relating with self and others, in contrast to help provided by non-theistic and non-religious Transcendents and not believing in Transcendents. This research implies that researchers need to investigate relationship with God in any study of spiritual well-being, whether or not it fits their personal worldview.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
An investigation into the agronomic factors affecting sustainability, surface hardness and rotational traction on community-level football grounds during drought conditions.
- Authors: Ford, Phillip
- Date: 2013
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Excessive hardness and rotational traction are the factors most associated with non-contact, ground-related injury risk in football. Irrigation has the greatest influence on surface hardness, and also in determining the turfgrass species that can be sustained. However, irrigation is prohibited on many Australian community-level grounds during drought. This thesis investigated the influence of various agronomic factors on surface hardness and on rotational traction, with the aim of devising strategies to reduce ground-related injury risk in drought conditions. In replicated plots tested over a drought period, Clegg hardness values on a football ground peaked at 160 gravities when turfgrass coverage was present, compared to values in excess of 200 gravities when turf coverage was absent. If the Clegg threshold was set at 160 g for community-level football, many grounds would stay open for play provided they sustained turfgrass coverage. In southern mainland Australia during drought and without irrigation, only a drought-resistant species such as couchgrass (Cynodon dactylon and hybrids) could do this. However, couchgrass has been linked by past epidemiological evidence to a higher risk of knee injury than perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne), which was attributed to couchgrass having a higher rotational traction. In data presented in this thesis, perennial ryegrass actually had significantly higher rotational stiffness than couchgrass on four out of eight assessment dates. Consequently, there appears no reason to favour perennial ryegrass and to recommend against the use of couchgrass for reasons concerning rotational traction. Furthermore, the largest range in rotational traction was between areas of full grasscover compared to denuded areas. The thesis concluded that the ability to sustain turfgrass coverage provided the most effective agronomic solution for moderating both hardness and rotational traction on community-level football fields, and that a turfgrass species should be selected primarily on its ability to best sustain that coverage.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Ford, Phillip
- Date: 2013
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Excessive hardness and rotational traction are the factors most associated with non-contact, ground-related injury risk in football. Irrigation has the greatest influence on surface hardness, and also in determining the turfgrass species that can be sustained. However, irrigation is prohibited on many Australian community-level grounds during drought. This thesis investigated the influence of various agronomic factors on surface hardness and on rotational traction, with the aim of devising strategies to reduce ground-related injury risk in drought conditions. In replicated plots tested over a drought period, Clegg hardness values on a football ground peaked at 160 gravities when turfgrass coverage was present, compared to values in excess of 200 gravities when turf coverage was absent. If the Clegg threshold was set at 160 g for community-level football, many grounds would stay open for play provided they sustained turfgrass coverage. In southern mainland Australia during drought and without irrigation, only a drought-resistant species such as couchgrass (Cynodon dactylon and hybrids) could do this. However, couchgrass has been linked by past epidemiological evidence to a higher risk of knee injury than perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne), which was attributed to couchgrass having a higher rotational traction. In data presented in this thesis, perennial ryegrass actually had significantly higher rotational stiffness than couchgrass on four out of eight assessment dates. Consequently, there appears no reason to favour perennial ryegrass and to recommend against the use of couchgrass for reasons concerning rotational traction. Furthermore, the largest range in rotational traction was between areas of full grasscover compared to denuded areas. The thesis concluded that the ability to sustain turfgrass coverage provided the most effective agronomic solution for moderating both hardness and rotational traction on community-level football fields, and that a turfgrass species should be selected primarily on its ability to best sustain that coverage.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
Barley and malt quality assessment in a barley breeding program
- Authors: Fox, Glen
- Date: 1993
- Type: Text , Thesis , Masters
- Full Text:
- Description: The assessment of barley and malt quality for a barley breeding program was revised. The small size of the samples available in breeding requires the development of special methods that may differ slightly from those used by the malting and brewing industry when dealing with much larger samples of grain. Small-scale methods for malt extract determination were investigated. A new method using 1 g of malt in a 10 M1 mash was proposed for use in barley breeding. Near infared methods for barley and malt analysis were studied. Methods for distinguishing barley and malt varieties. A system for capture and storage of data and analysis of results by computer was developed specifically for a barley quality laboratory supporting a barley breeding program.
- Description: Masters of Applied Science
- Authors: Fox, Glen
- Date: 1993
- Type: Text , Thesis , Masters
- Full Text:
- Description: The assessment of barley and malt quality for a barley breeding program was revised. The small size of the samples available in breeding requires the development of special methods that may differ slightly from those used by the malting and brewing industry when dealing with much larger samples of grain. Small-scale methods for malt extract determination were investigated. A new method using 1 g of malt in a 10 M1 mash was proposed for use in barley breeding. Near infared methods for barley and malt analysis were studied. Methods for distinguishing barley and malt varieties. A system for capture and storage of data and analysis of results by computer was developed specifically for a barley quality laboratory supporting a barley breeding program.
- Description: Masters of Applied Science
A randomized controlled trial of a high intensity interval training intervention using a body sensor network and facebook
- Authors: Foy, Daryl
- Date: 2012
- Type: Text , Thesis , Masters
- Full Text:
- Description: Purpose The purpose of this pilot study was to conduct an impact evaluation on adherence to a 5 week high intensity interval training (HIIT) intervention by the use of a body sensor network and social networking site (SNS) software. The study design used was experimental, comprised of two-groups with random allocation to each and pre- and post-tests of repeated sprint performance. Setting University of Ballarat, Australia. Subjects Participants (N = 16) included university student members of a State League 5 field hockey club. The study employed a convenience sample consisting of an intervention group (n=8) and a control group (n=8). Intervention Both groups were given a 5 week HIIT program specifically designed to improve performance in repeated sprint activity (RSA). This program comprised twice weekly training sessions over the 5 weeks with gradual increases in training load and concomitant reduction in rest and recovery. The intervention group used a garment with sensors to gather heart rate and accelerometer data (speed, distance and cadence) that published the physiological data via Bluetooth and GPRS to a purpose-specific software application called SPUTNIK which ran on the Facebook social networking site (SNS). This group could socialise their data amongst themselves and share detailed graphical analysis of their training programs. They were also able to set, change and share their goals and comment on each other’s training, goals and progress. The intervention group could train together as they required. The control group used a heart rate monitor (HRM) to guide their training sessions and a paper-based
- Description: Master Human Movement: Bio-Science
- Authors: Foy, Daryl
- Date: 2012
- Type: Text , Thesis , Masters
- Full Text:
- Description: Purpose The purpose of this pilot study was to conduct an impact evaluation on adherence to a 5 week high intensity interval training (HIIT) intervention by the use of a body sensor network and social networking site (SNS) software. The study design used was experimental, comprised of two-groups with random allocation to each and pre- and post-tests of repeated sprint performance. Setting University of Ballarat, Australia. Subjects Participants (N = 16) included university student members of a State League 5 field hockey club. The study employed a convenience sample consisting of an intervention group (n=8) and a control group (n=8). Intervention Both groups were given a 5 week HIIT program specifically designed to improve performance in repeated sprint activity (RSA). This program comprised twice weekly training sessions over the 5 weeks with gradual increases in training load and concomitant reduction in rest and recovery. The intervention group used a garment with sensors to gather heart rate and accelerometer data (speed, distance and cadence) that published the physiological data via Bluetooth and GPRS to a purpose-specific software application called SPUTNIK which ran on the Facebook social networking site (SNS). This group could socialise their data amongst themselves and share detailed graphical analysis of their training programs. They were also able to set, change and share their goals and comment on each other’s training, goals and progress. The intervention group could train together as they required. The control group used a heart rate monitor (HRM) to guide their training sessions and a paper-based
- Description: Master Human Movement: Bio-Science
The role of sprint training in hamstring strain injury prevention for field sport athletes
- Authors: Freeman, Brock
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Hamstring strain injuries (HSI) are regularly reported as the most common injury in many field-based sports with a high-speed running (HSR) component. Typically, these injuries occur during sprinting efforts, predominantly in the Biceps Femoris Long Head (BFLH). Furthermore, the burden of HSI is amongst the highest in field sports, and the risk of recurrent injury is elevated, and inflated by age. It is of interest to managers, technical coaches, physical preparation staff and athletes to reduce the risk of sustaining a HSI. Therefore, extensive research in HSI has identified several non-modifiable and modifiable risk factors, such as eccentric hamstring strength, BFLH fascicle length, and HSR exposure. Currently, almost all interventions designed to reduce the risk of HSI have utilised resistance training or stretching interventions. This is despite the scientific literature indicating that; 1) sprinting is the most common mechanism associated with hamstring strain injury, and 2) sprinting places a far greater demand on the hamstrings than interventions that are resistance or flexibility based. Therefore, the primary aim of this thesis was to establish the role of sprint training in HSI prevention in field sport athletes. The aim of Study 1 was to understand the beliefs and practices of professional Australian Football (AF) physical performance coaches towards the training and assessment prescribed to mitigate the risk of HSI. A Delphi-validated mixed methods survey was implemented to assess the beliefs and practices of High-Performance Managers of professional AF teams. All the participants in this study reported that they believed sprinting (acceleration and maximum speed) was the most common activity associated with HSI. Similarly, all participants also indicated they performed sprint training for injury prevention purposes. However, a range of relative speeds were reported to quantify HSR, whilst a sprint was reported as 85%Vmax. Whilst respondents reported they believed that sprint training was important, one participant indicated that they felt the need to be conservative with the prescription of sprint training for fear of injury, and the consequences associated with this. Due to the identified discrepancies in speed thresholds used in practical setting (Study 1) and academic settings (Literature Review), Study 2 was designed to determine the absolute, and relative speeds associated with jogging, running, striding, near maximum sprinting, and sprinting. The secondary aim was to visually describe the gait patterns associated with HSR and sprinting. Fifteen participants completed two data collection periods, where they performed a series of run throughs at different gait patterns. These gait patterns were adapted from a review of time-motion research in field sports. The running gaits of jogging, running, striding, near-maximum sprinting, and sprinting correspond with the relative speeds of 56%Vmax, 66%Vmax, 78%Vmax, 87%Vmax, and 100%Vmax, respectively. Significant (p = 0.01) differences were observed for all variables between striding, near-maximum sprinting, and sprinting. This highlights that previously reported thresholds in Study 1 are likely not quantifying the true sprinting demands. Publicly available injury information indicates a spike in HSI during the 2018 Australian Football League (AFL) season, a trend that occurred in the relatively uninterrupted 2020 AFL season. As Study 2 indicated that thresholds used to quantify the demands of sprinting in training and competition, Study 3 primarily aimed to determine the amount of running completed in relative speed bands during the pre-season and then the first eight weeks of the season. The secondary aim was to determine how individual athletes vary from the group average across the pre-season and the first eight rounds of the season. This study completed a retrospective analysis of 55 professional Australian footballers during the pre-season and first eight rounds of the 2019 season. Significantly less (p < 0.05) weekly volume was reported during the first 8 weeks of the season in the speed thresholds of 71-80%Vmax, 81-90%Vmax, and 91-100%Vmax. However, athletes in this study only completed an average of 18m above 90%Vmax in the pre-season, a stimulus too low to achieve an injury prevention and conditioning effect. Individual analysis highlighted that whilst a small number of athletes achieved a consistent sprinting load, several athletes did not achieve more than 2m above 90%Vmax during both the pre and in-season periods. This lack of preparation may provide a rationale for the injury rates during the first eight rounds. To improve the preparation of athletes using a sprinting stimulus, Study 4 focussed on addressing modifiable risk factors for HSI. The primary aim of this study examined the effects of acceleration and maximum speed sprint training of eccentric hamstring strength, BFLH fascicle length, and sprint performance. Initially, a training study with 60 participants was planned, but due to the Victorian Government’s COVID-19 restrictions, this was modified to a case study design with 11 participants. A 6-week training intervention consisting of acceleration sprinting (<15m) or maximum speed sprinting with a gradual build up (flying 10-20m) was implemented. Participants that performed acceleration or maximum speed sprinting improved Biceps Femoris fascicle length by 23% and 20%, respectively. This was an increase of more than the Minimum Detectable Change (MDC95 = 0.96cm, 95% CI =0.93 – 0.99cm). The participants who completed normal training experienced no change in the BFLH fascicle length. Neither sprint training intervention produced a change in eccentric hamstring strength that was greater than the typical error in the test. Both sprinting interventions improved sprint performance outcomes, however both acceleration and maximum speed training produced a larger improvement in maximum speed (-11% and -9%, respectively) than in acceleration qualities (-2% and -3%, respectively). Both acceleration and maximum speed training incurred positive improvement in relative force production (F(0) (N/kg)) and relative power production (Pmax (W/kg)). This was similar for DRF and RFpeak and indicates that sprint training without resistance will improve Force-Velocity-Power Variables. This project has provided new information regarding the role of sprint training for hamstring strain injury prevention. Firstly, both 6 weeks of low volume acceleration and maximum speed sprinting improve BFLH fascicle length. Secondly, currently employed velocity thresholds in professional AF are likely too slow to quantify the HSR and sprinting demands. Thirdly, analysis using thresholds that are faster than previously reported revealed that the overall volume of sprinting (>90%Vmax) is too low to elicit an injury prevention or training stimulus. This information will inform the future practices of key stakeholders surrounding sprint training in field sport athletes. The identification of the positive benefits of maximum speed sprinting, and a faster, more accurate definition of sprinting has large potential to improve hamstring strain injury prevention and increase physical performance.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Freeman, Brock
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Hamstring strain injuries (HSI) are regularly reported as the most common injury in many field-based sports with a high-speed running (HSR) component. Typically, these injuries occur during sprinting efforts, predominantly in the Biceps Femoris Long Head (BFLH). Furthermore, the burden of HSI is amongst the highest in field sports, and the risk of recurrent injury is elevated, and inflated by age. It is of interest to managers, technical coaches, physical preparation staff and athletes to reduce the risk of sustaining a HSI. Therefore, extensive research in HSI has identified several non-modifiable and modifiable risk factors, such as eccentric hamstring strength, BFLH fascicle length, and HSR exposure. Currently, almost all interventions designed to reduce the risk of HSI have utilised resistance training or stretching interventions. This is despite the scientific literature indicating that; 1) sprinting is the most common mechanism associated with hamstring strain injury, and 2) sprinting places a far greater demand on the hamstrings than interventions that are resistance or flexibility based. Therefore, the primary aim of this thesis was to establish the role of sprint training in HSI prevention in field sport athletes. The aim of Study 1 was to understand the beliefs and practices of professional Australian Football (AF) physical performance coaches towards the training and assessment prescribed to mitigate the risk of HSI. A Delphi-validated mixed methods survey was implemented to assess the beliefs and practices of High-Performance Managers of professional AF teams. All the participants in this study reported that they believed sprinting (acceleration and maximum speed) was the most common activity associated with HSI. Similarly, all participants also indicated they performed sprint training for injury prevention purposes. However, a range of relative speeds were reported to quantify HSR, whilst a sprint was reported as 85%Vmax. Whilst respondents reported they believed that sprint training was important, one participant indicated that they felt the need to be conservative with the prescription of sprint training for fear of injury, and the consequences associated with this. Due to the identified discrepancies in speed thresholds used in practical setting (Study 1) and academic settings (Literature Review), Study 2 was designed to determine the absolute, and relative speeds associated with jogging, running, striding, near maximum sprinting, and sprinting. The secondary aim was to visually describe the gait patterns associated with HSR and sprinting. Fifteen participants completed two data collection periods, where they performed a series of run throughs at different gait patterns. These gait patterns were adapted from a review of time-motion research in field sports. The running gaits of jogging, running, striding, near-maximum sprinting, and sprinting correspond with the relative speeds of 56%Vmax, 66%Vmax, 78%Vmax, 87%Vmax, and 100%Vmax, respectively. Significant (p = 0.01) differences were observed for all variables between striding, near-maximum sprinting, and sprinting. This highlights that previously reported thresholds in Study 1 are likely not quantifying the true sprinting demands. Publicly available injury information indicates a spike in HSI during the 2018 Australian Football League (AFL) season, a trend that occurred in the relatively uninterrupted 2020 AFL season. As Study 2 indicated that thresholds used to quantify the demands of sprinting in training and competition, Study 3 primarily aimed to determine the amount of running completed in relative speed bands during the pre-season and then the first eight weeks of the season. The secondary aim was to determine how individual athletes vary from the group average across the pre-season and the first eight rounds of the season. This study completed a retrospective analysis of 55 professional Australian footballers during the pre-season and first eight rounds of the 2019 season. Significantly less (p < 0.05) weekly volume was reported during the first 8 weeks of the season in the speed thresholds of 71-80%Vmax, 81-90%Vmax, and 91-100%Vmax. However, athletes in this study only completed an average of 18m above 90%Vmax in the pre-season, a stimulus too low to achieve an injury prevention and conditioning effect. Individual analysis highlighted that whilst a small number of athletes achieved a consistent sprinting load, several athletes did not achieve more than 2m above 90%Vmax during both the pre and in-season periods. This lack of preparation may provide a rationale for the injury rates during the first eight rounds. To improve the preparation of athletes using a sprinting stimulus, Study 4 focussed on addressing modifiable risk factors for HSI. The primary aim of this study examined the effects of acceleration and maximum speed sprint training of eccentric hamstring strength, BFLH fascicle length, and sprint performance. Initially, a training study with 60 participants was planned, but due to the Victorian Government’s COVID-19 restrictions, this was modified to a case study design with 11 participants. A 6-week training intervention consisting of acceleration sprinting (<15m) or maximum speed sprinting with a gradual build up (flying 10-20m) was implemented. Participants that performed acceleration or maximum speed sprinting improved Biceps Femoris fascicle length by 23% and 20%, respectively. This was an increase of more than the Minimum Detectable Change (MDC95 = 0.96cm, 95% CI =0.93 – 0.99cm). The participants who completed normal training experienced no change in the BFLH fascicle length. Neither sprint training intervention produced a change in eccentric hamstring strength that was greater than the typical error in the test. Both sprinting interventions improved sprint performance outcomes, however both acceleration and maximum speed training produced a larger improvement in maximum speed (-11% and -9%, respectively) than in acceleration qualities (-2% and -3%, respectively). Both acceleration and maximum speed training incurred positive improvement in relative force production (F(0) (N/kg)) and relative power production (Pmax (W/kg)). This was similar for DRF and RFpeak and indicates that sprint training without resistance will improve Force-Velocity-Power Variables. This project has provided new information regarding the role of sprint training for hamstring strain injury prevention. Firstly, both 6 weeks of low volume acceleration and maximum speed sprinting improve BFLH fascicle length. Secondly, currently employed velocity thresholds in professional AF are likely too slow to quantify the HSR and sprinting demands. Thirdly, analysis using thresholds that are faster than previously reported revealed that the overall volume of sprinting (>90%Vmax) is too low to elicit an injury prevention or training stimulus. This information will inform the future practices of key stakeholders surrounding sprint training in field sport athletes. The identification of the positive benefits of maximum speed sprinting, and a faster, more accurate definition of sprinting has large potential to improve hamstring strain injury prevention and increase physical performance.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
An In-Vehicle data acquisition system to monitor the service conditions of brake systems
- Authors: Fumi, Duncan
- Date: 2008
- Type: Text , Thesis , Masters
- Full Text:
- Description: The design of vehicle brake systems involves optimising a large number of competing parameters. In order to find an appropriate balance of properties, it is important to have a good picture of the range of operating conditions the system will operate under. Obtaining such information for a large range of driving conditions requires recording data over a long period from a number of vehicles under a number of different driving conditions. In this thesis, a proposed data acquisition system has been designed, constructed and implemented to measure and store in real-time performance related parameters of brake systems. The system proposed in this thesis to monitor brake performance employs a small embedded PC system along with a number of peripheral cards as its basis [...]
- Authors: Fumi, Duncan
- Date: 2008
- Type: Text , Thesis , Masters
- Full Text:
- Description: The design of vehicle brake systems involves optimising a large number of competing parameters. In order to find an appropriate balance of properties, it is important to have a good picture of the range of operating conditions the system will operate under. Obtaining such information for a large range of driving conditions requires recording data over a long period from a number of vehicles under a number of different driving conditions. In this thesis, a proposed data acquisition system has been designed, constructed and implemented to measure and store in real-time performance related parameters of brake systems. The system proposed in this thesis to monitor brake performance employs a small embedded PC system along with a number of peripheral cards as its basis [...]
Neutralisation of toxic mine waste in wetlands through electro-osmosis
- Authors: Gacad, Felizardo
- Date: 1998
- Type: Text , Thesis , Masters
- Full Text: false
- Description: Master of Engineering Science
Making junior cricket safer for Sri Lanka : Creating opportunities for injury prevention
- Authors: Gamage, Prasanna
- Date: 2019
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: With the immense popularity of the game of cricket in Sri Lanka, school level cricket is played competitively and socially by a large number of participants. As in many other sports, musculoskeletal injuries are a common occurrence in cricket. Exposure to hot and humid environments in Sri Lankan conditions during outdoor cricket play can also pose a risk for junior cricketers. To date, there has been no attempt to examine injury or illness among Sri Lankan junior cricketers, which hinders opportunities for injury prevention. The first aim of this thesis was to examine musculoskeletal injuries with a view to identifying injury incidence and associated risks during competitions. Specific injuries among different groups of cricketers were identified including 46.0% in fielders, 25.4% in bowlers and 20.3% in batters. Injury risk perceptions of junior cricketers recognised that these injuries were common, and highlighted the role of coaches and school cricket teachers in supporting junior cricketers. The second aim of the thesis was to study the potential impact of exertional heat illnesses (EHI) during cricket play. A considerable variation in heat stress risk parameters (climate, duration, and intensity of play) were observed among cricketers during test-cricket play. Study of risk perceptions related to EHI showed the importance of understanding EHI risks such as humidity and use of helmets. The results of this PhD have been provided to Sri Lankan Cricket and school cricket authorities with recommendation to develop and implement injury preventive measures such as use of helmets during batting to minimise the high number of match-time-loss facial injuries, and educating junior cricketers in modifying their perceived risk attitudes and beliefs related to musculoskeletal and EHI risks. Overall, this PhD has met the aim of completing the first large-scale scientific contribution towards promoting safety and preventing injuries among Sri Lankan junior cricketers.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Gamage, Prasanna
- Date: 2019
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: With the immense popularity of the game of cricket in Sri Lanka, school level cricket is played competitively and socially by a large number of participants. As in many other sports, musculoskeletal injuries are a common occurrence in cricket. Exposure to hot and humid environments in Sri Lankan conditions during outdoor cricket play can also pose a risk for junior cricketers. To date, there has been no attempt to examine injury or illness among Sri Lankan junior cricketers, which hinders opportunities for injury prevention. The first aim of this thesis was to examine musculoskeletal injuries with a view to identifying injury incidence and associated risks during competitions. Specific injuries among different groups of cricketers were identified including 46.0% in fielders, 25.4% in bowlers and 20.3% in batters. Injury risk perceptions of junior cricketers recognised that these injuries were common, and highlighted the role of coaches and school cricket teachers in supporting junior cricketers. The second aim of the thesis was to study the potential impact of exertional heat illnesses (EHI) during cricket play. A considerable variation in heat stress risk parameters (climate, duration, and intensity of play) were observed among cricketers during test-cricket play. Study of risk perceptions related to EHI showed the importance of understanding EHI risks such as humidity and use of helmets. The results of this PhD have been provided to Sri Lankan Cricket and school cricket authorities with recommendation to develop and implement injury preventive measures such as use of helmets during batting to minimise the high number of match-time-loss facial injuries, and educating junior cricketers in modifying their perceived risk attitudes and beliefs related to musculoskeletal and EHI risks. Overall, this PhD has met the aim of completing the first large-scale scientific contribution towards promoting safety and preventing injuries among Sri Lankan junior cricketers.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
Barley non-starch polysaccharide content and its relationship with kernel hardness and water uptake
- Authors: Gamlath, Jayantha
- Date: 2009
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text: false
- Description: Harder kernels in barley are thought to be a factor affecting the modification of the endosperm during malting by restricting water and enzyme movement within the endosperm. The traditional method used in the malting industry to determine barley endosperm vitreousness is by visual assessment. Since this method is subjective, laborious and requires training, an alternative method is needed. Similarly, the causes and factors influencing kernel hardness are uncertain. The prime objectives of this study were: to identify an appropriate method to quantify kernel hardness; investigate the relationship between kernel hardness and endosperm composition; and to investigate the relationship between barley variety and environmental influences on endosperm composition in relation to the kernel hardness of malting barley.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Gamlath, Jayantha
- Date: 2009
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text: false
- Description: Harder kernels in barley are thought to be a factor affecting the modification of the endosperm during malting by restricting water and enzyme movement within the endosperm. The traditional method used in the malting industry to determine barley endosperm vitreousness is by visual assessment. Since this method is subjective, laborious and requires training, an alternative method is needed. Similarly, the causes and factors influencing kernel hardness are uncertain. The prime objectives of this study were: to identify an appropriate method to quantify kernel hardness; investigate the relationship between kernel hardness and endosperm composition; and to investigate the relationship between barley variety and environmental influences on endosperm composition in relation to the kernel hardness of malting barley.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
Derivative free algorithms for nonsmooth and global optimization with application in cluster analysis
- Authors: Ganjehlou, Asef Nazari
- Date: 2009
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: This thesis is devoted to the development of algorithms for solving nonsmooth nonconvex problems. Some of these algorithms are derivative free methods.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Ganjehlou, Asef Nazari
- Date: 2009
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: This thesis is devoted to the development of algorithms for solving nonsmooth nonconvex problems. Some of these algorithms are derivative free methods.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
Regeneration of sulfur rich amines in a combined capture system aimed to lower the cost of PCC in Australian coal fired power plants
- Authors: Garg, Bharti
- Date: 2019
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Coal is the dominant and most reliable source of energy in Australia. However, the increasing global temperatures and its impact on the climate raises concerns on the use of coal worldwide. Due to availability of abundant, cheap quality coals, Australia is researching how it and its international customers can continue to use its abundant coal resources whilst limiting greenhouse emissions. Hence, low CO2 emitting energy technologies like carbon capture and storage (CCS) have an important role to play not only in power but also the cement and steel industries Post-combustion CO2 capture (PCC), the most developed technology in CCS using aqueous amines to capture CO2, still face challenges for its large-scale commercialisation. The cost of electricity with PCC rises to almost double that produced without integrating PCC technology in new power stations. The retrofit of PCC technology into existing power stations is very site specific and costs can be around half of the cost of building a new power plant. Apart from this, the implementation of PCC poses an energy penalty to the power station as the efficiency of the plant can drop almost by 10-11% due to the increased solvent heating and CO2 compression loads. Particularly with the nations like Australia, the cost of PCC installation is even higher as there are no flue gas desulfurisation (FGD) units in Australian power stations. The presence of harmful gases like SO2 in coal-fired power plant flue gases affect CO2 capture performance during PCC due to the higher affinity of amines to absorb stronger acidic gases against CO2 which is a weaker acid gas than SO2. These stronger acidic gases tend to form heat stable salts with the absorbent amines used to capture CO2 . Heat stable salts refer to the thermally non-regenerable protonated amines which are usually produced when the amine solution is contaminated by organic acids (Weiland et al., 2004). Hence, the bonded amine is not available for CO2 capture, increasing the requirement for makeup amine resulting in higher operating cost. Therefore, FGD units are an essential requirement before the installation of PCC facilities in a coal-fired power station. This results in a levelised cost of electricity in Australian power plants that is high compared to nations which have FGD installed in their power stations. CSIRO has developed a combined capture process to simultaneously capture CO2 and SO2 from Australian power plant flue gases using a single amine absorbent in order to lower the cost of PCC installation in Australia. The process generates a unique sulfur rich amine absorbent which needs regeneration. This thesis investigates various amine regeneration processes, using MEA as a reference, and their commercial viability to the CS-Cap process. Due to the unique nature of the sulfur rich absorbent generated in the CS-Cap process, its amine is recoverable through many other regeneration processes besides standard thermal reclamation. My thesis investigates the effectiveness of regeneration techniques like Ion exchange, Electro-dialysis, Crystallisation, Nano-filtration in regenerating the sulfur rich amine. Initially the theoretical investigation was carried as a part of literature review and further a brief exploratory laboratory scale evaluation of the most suited technologies was carried out. The results obtained from laboratory scale experimentation were fed to an Aspen Plus simulation model in order to understand the behaviour of the system under various operating conditions. Further a cost estimation was carried out in order to produce a high level cost for the selected regeneration technologies in the CS-Cap process. The cost of the regeneration technologies were further integrated into the overall CO2 capture process in order to compare the cost of standard FGD + PCC process against the CS-Cap process which answers the broader research question whether the CS-Cap process will be economical for Australian coal power plants. Overall this thesis reveals the effectiveness of various technologies in regenerating sulfur rich amines. It suggests CSIRO’s patented CS-Cap process is a cost-effective approach for capturing CO2 from Australian coal fired power plants despite its sensitivity to regeneration cost.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Garg, Bharti
- Date: 2019
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Coal is the dominant and most reliable source of energy in Australia. However, the increasing global temperatures and its impact on the climate raises concerns on the use of coal worldwide. Due to availability of abundant, cheap quality coals, Australia is researching how it and its international customers can continue to use its abundant coal resources whilst limiting greenhouse emissions. Hence, low CO2 emitting energy technologies like carbon capture and storage (CCS) have an important role to play not only in power but also the cement and steel industries Post-combustion CO2 capture (PCC), the most developed technology in CCS using aqueous amines to capture CO2, still face challenges for its large-scale commercialisation. The cost of electricity with PCC rises to almost double that produced without integrating PCC technology in new power stations. The retrofit of PCC technology into existing power stations is very site specific and costs can be around half of the cost of building a new power plant. Apart from this, the implementation of PCC poses an energy penalty to the power station as the efficiency of the plant can drop almost by 10-11% due to the increased solvent heating and CO2 compression loads. Particularly with the nations like Australia, the cost of PCC installation is even higher as there are no flue gas desulfurisation (FGD) units in Australian power stations. The presence of harmful gases like SO2 in coal-fired power plant flue gases affect CO2 capture performance during PCC due to the higher affinity of amines to absorb stronger acidic gases against CO2 which is a weaker acid gas than SO2. These stronger acidic gases tend to form heat stable salts with the absorbent amines used to capture CO2 . Heat stable salts refer to the thermally non-regenerable protonated amines which are usually produced when the amine solution is contaminated by organic acids (Weiland et al., 2004). Hence, the bonded amine is not available for CO2 capture, increasing the requirement for makeup amine resulting in higher operating cost. Therefore, FGD units are an essential requirement before the installation of PCC facilities in a coal-fired power station. This results in a levelised cost of electricity in Australian power plants that is high compared to nations which have FGD installed in their power stations. CSIRO has developed a combined capture process to simultaneously capture CO2 and SO2 from Australian power plant flue gases using a single amine absorbent in order to lower the cost of PCC installation in Australia. The process generates a unique sulfur rich amine absorbent which needs regeneration. This thesis investigates various amine regeneration processes, using MEA as a reference, and their commercial viability to the CS-Cap process. Due to the unique nature of the sulfur rich absorbent generated in the CS-Cap process, its amine is recoverable through many other regeneration processes besides standard thermal reclamation. My thesis investigates the effectiveness of regeneration techniques like Ion exchange, Electro-dialysis, Crystallisation, Nano-filtration in regenerating the sulfur rich amine. Initially the theoretical investigation was carried as a part of literature review and further a brief exploratory laboratory scale evaluation of the most suited technologies was carried out. The results obtained from laboratory scale experimentation were fed to an Aspen Plus simulation model in order to understand the behaviour of the system under various operating conditions. Further a cost estimation was carried out in order to produce a high level cost for the selected regeneration technologies in the CS-Cap process. The cost of the regeneration technologies were further integrated into the overall CO2 capture process in order to compare the cost of standard FGD + PCC process against the CS-Cap process which answers the broader research question whether the CS-Cap process will be economical for Australian coal power plants. Overall this thesis reveals the effectiveness of various technologies in regenerating sulfur rich amines. It suggests CSIRO’s patented CS-Cap process is a cost-effective approach for capturing CO2 from Australian coal fired power plants despite its sensitivity to regeneration cost.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
Progress in Australia over the 20th century : the ups, downs and reversals that occurred in Australian human wellbeing over the 20th century
- Authors: Gathercole, Michael
- Date: 2005
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: "This study is an investigation of progress in Australia over the 20th century. Progress is defined here as the enhancement of human wellbeing. For the purposes of this study, human wellbeing will be characterised by five main components: knowledge, environment, economy, individual and social. Enhancement refers to positive directional change in terms of these components. The study firstly develops a framework to conceptualise progress. It then collects and uses statistical data in a descriptive study of what happened in Australia, over those 100 years, in terms of progress in general and in terms of its components. The study also develops a typology of relationships for models of progress, which best explain the Australian data. This study finally explores some of the relationships between the elements that make up the components of progress and looks at ways to best explain what has happened..." --p.1.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Gathercole, Michael
- Date: 2005
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: "This study is an investigation of progress in Australia over the 20th century. Progress is defined here as the enhancement of human wellbeing. For the purposes of this study, human wellbeing will be characterised by five main components: knowledge, environment, economy, individual and social. Enhancement refers to positive directional change in terms of these components. The study firstly develops a framework to conceptualise progress. It then collects and uses statistical data in a descriptive study of what happened in Australia, over those 100 years, in terms of progress in general and in terms of its components. The study also develops a typology of relationships for models of progress, which best explain the Australian data. This study finally explores some of the relationships between the elements that make up the components of progress and looks at ways to best explain what has happened..." --p.1.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
Differential desiring practice- A path into a Deleuze inspired literary discourse
- Authors: Gaudlitz, Erika
- Date: 2011
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Drawing on Deleuze’s and Deleuze-Guattari’s differential and A path into a Deleuze inspired literary discourse in Difference and repetition and The logic of sense; Anti-Oedipus and A thousand plateaus and their engagement with literary texts in Kafka: Toward a minor literature; Proust and signs and Masochism: Coldness and cruelty, I unfold the following problematic in this thesis: What Deleuze (and Deleuze-Guattari) inspired critical practice can be theorized which allows the reading of works that resist interpretative representational practices? Proposing the differential, the libidinal, the schizoanalytic, the symptomatological and the simulacral as schizoid processes of discursive dissociation, this thesis theorizes and develops such a practice. More specifically I unravel and explore, theoretically and practically, the strands of what I term a differential desiring practice. Further I demonstrate the usefulness and power of this differential desiring practice, engaging first with Duras’ work as schizoid and liminal processes of event and becoming; and second with Carter’s work as schizoanalytic and parodic processes. Overall this thesis presents differential desiring practice as a reading and writing practice marked by thematic and stylistic schizodicity and discursive dissociation. Such a presentation not only opens a new path into a Deleuze inspired literary discourse by reappraising Deleuze’s and Deleuze-Guattari’s differential and schizoanalytic project, but puts forward a productive model for working with recalcitrant literary texts.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Gaudlitz, Erika
- Date: 2011
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Drawing on Deleuze’s and Deleuze-Guattari’s differential and A path into a Deleuze inspired literary discourse in Difference and repetition and The logic of sense; Anti-Oedipus and A thousand plateaus and their engagement with literary texts in Kafka: Toward a minor literature; Proust and signs and Masochism: Coldness and cruelty, I unfold the following problematic in this thesis: What Deleuze (and Deleuze-Guattari) inspired critical practice can be theorized which allows the reading of works that resist interpretative representational practices? Proposing the differential, the libidinal, the schizoanalytic, the symptomatological and the simulacral as schizoid processes of discursive dissociation, this thesis theorizes and develops such a practice. More specifically I unravel and explore, theoretically and practically, the strands of what I term a differential desiring practice. Further I demonstrate the usefulness and power of this differential desiring practice, engaging first with Duras’ work as schizoid and liminal processes of event and becoming; and second with Carter’s work as schizoanalytic and parodic processes. Overall this thesis presents differential desiring practice as a reading and writing practice marked by thematic and stylistic schizodicity and discursive dissociation. Such a presentation not only opens a new path into a Deleuze inspired literary discourse by reappraising Deleuze’s and Deleuze-Guattari’s differential and schizoanalytic project, but puts forward a productive model for working with recalcitrant literary texts.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
Reciprocal peer tutoring in an Australian undergraduate clinical skills setting : A mixed methods study
- Authors: Gazula, Swapnali
- Date: 2019
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Background Incorporation of active learning approaches in the preparation of nursing students for future educational roles is an imperative. Reciprocal peer tutoring (RPT) is an active teaching/learning approach, in which individuals from similar academic levels rotate teaching/learning roles. This study aimed to explore the outcomes of RPT on undergraduate nursing students learning. Design/Methods A sequential explanatory mixed methods design, incorporating pre-post intervention surveys and focus groups with a convenience sample of 102 final-year students, from a cohort of 132 (RR = 77.3%), from a regional Australian university campus. Prior to attendance, online resources were provided on teaching fundamentals and two selected clinical skills, namely tracheostomy suctioning and intravenous cannulation. Attending participants were randomly allocated into pairs, rotating teaching and learning roles within clinical skills laboratories. Pre-post intervention survey tools examined knowledge and self-reported attitudes to a peer teaching and clinical teaching preferences (Clinical Teaching Preference Questionnaire). Post-intervention measures included a peer teaching experience (Peer Teaching Experience Questionnaire). Focus group interviews (n = 4) were conducted with 22 participants, to further understand students’ RPT experiences. Results There was positive improvement in attitudes to peer teaching (M = 49.2, SD = 10.0 to M = 52.3, SD = 8.2, p < 0.05, [95% CI = 0.7 to 5.4]). Knowledge scores also increased significantly (M = 6.9, SD = 2.0 to M = 9.7, SD = 1.9), p < 0.05 [95% CI = 2.3 to 3.2]. Aggregate mean knowledge scores increased more for peer teachers (M = 3.3) than they did for peer learners (M = 2.2). Thematic outcomes from focus groups indicated challenging yet beneficial journeys, collective learning outcomes, along with benefits of RPT including enhanced teaching, self-confidence, communication, and independent and collaborative learning. Conclusion This study concludes that RPT is effective in clinical skills teaching and sets a foundation for further research.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Gazula, Swapnali
- Date: 2019
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Background Incorporation of active learning approaches in the preparation of nursing students for future educational roles is an imperative. Reciprocal peer tutoring (RPT) is an active teaching/learning approach, in which individuals from similar academic levels rotate teaching/learning roles. This study aimed to explore the outcomes of RPT on undergraduate nursing students learning. Design/Methods A sequential explanatory mixed methods design, incorporating pre-post intervention surveys and focus groups with a convenience sample of 102 final-year students, from a cohort of 132 (RR = 77.3%), from a regional Australian university campus. Prior to attendance, online resources were provided on teaching fundamentals and two selected clinical skills, namely tracheostomy suctioning and intravenous cannulation. Attending participants were randomly allocated into pairs, rotating teaching and learning roles within clinical skills laboratories. Pre-post intervention survey tools examined knowledge and self-reported attitudes to a peer teaching and clinical teaching preferences (Clinical Teaching Preference Questionnaire). Post-intervention measures included a peer teaching experience (Peer Teaching Experience Questionnaire). Focus group interviews (n = 4) were conducted with 22 participants, to further understand students’ RPT experiences. Results There was positive improvement in attitudes to peer teaching (M = 49.2, SD = 10.0 to M = 52.3, SD = 8.2, p < 0.05, [95% CI = 0.7 to 5.4]). Knowledge scores also increased significantly (M = 6.9, SD = 2.0 to M = 9.7, SD = 1.9), p < 0.05 [95% CI = 2.3 to 3.2]. Aggregate mean knowledge scores increased more for peer teachers (M = 3.3) than they did for peer learners (M = 2.2). Thematic outcomes from focus groups indicated challenging yet beneficial journeys, collective learning outcomes, along with benefits of RPT including enhanced teaching, self-confidence, communication, and independent and collaborative learning. Conclusion This study concludes that RPT is effective in clinical skills teaching and sets a foundation for further research.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
Analytical and numerical approaches to evaluate the effect of time-dependent and time-independent soil characteristics on the stability of deep excavations
- Authors: Ghadrdan, Mohsen
- Date: 2021
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Excavating the ground for different purposes, such as extracting valuable materials or undertaking urban construction, may cause concerns regarding the stability of the formed slopes, which can affect the environment, the economy, and human lives. Slope stability analysis in large-scale and deep excavations such as open-pit mines is challenging due to uncertainties regarding varying material parameters, complex field conditions and lack of or insufficient data such as pore water pressure distribution, in-situ stress conditions, and discontinuities. Despite different advanced analytical and numerical slope stability techniques having been developed, slope stability analysis may produce unreliable conclusions due to these uncertainties and challenges. This study’s objective is to investigate the effect of different factors associated with slope stability through a case study of the Yallourn brown coal open pit mine in Australia. In this study, the two most common slope stability methods—the Limit Equilibrium Method (LEM) and the Finite Element Method (FEM)—were employed. A comprehensive study was conducted to determine how the generation and dissipation of Negative Excess Pore-Water Pressure (NEPWP) affect slope stability assessments. Additionally, due to the complex geological stratigraphy of the site, different scenarios for geological layering were defined and investigated for the slope stability analyses. Moreover, the sensitivity of the slope stability assessment to not only different material characteristics but also different formulations and assumptions of LEM and FEM are presented.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Ghadrdan, Mohsen
- Date: 2021
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Excavating the ground for different purposes, such as extracting valuable materials or undertaking urban construction, may cause concerns regarding the stability of the formed slopes, which can affect the environment, the economy, and human lives. Slope stability analysis in large-scale and deep excavations such as open-pit mines is challenging due to uncertainties regarding varying material parameters, complex field conditions and lack of or insufficient data such as pore water pressure distribution, in-situ stress conditions, and discontinuities. Despite different advanced analytical and numerical slope stability techniques having been developed, slope stability analysis may produce unreliable conclusions due to these uncertainties and challenges. This study’s objective is to investigate the effect of different factors associated with slope stability through a case study of the Yallourn brown coal open pit mine in Australia. In this study, the two most common slope stability methods—the Limit Equilibrium Method (LEM) and the Finite Element Method (FEM)—were employed. A comprehensive study was conducted to determine how the generation and dissipation of Negative Excess Pore-Water Pressure (NEPWP) affect slope stability assessments. Additionally, due to the complex geological stratigraphy of the site, different scenarios for geological layering were defined and investigated for the slope stability analyses. Moreover, the sensitivity of the slope stability assessment to not only different material characteristics but also different formulations and assumptions of LEM and FEM are presented.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
Studies towards improved spray drying of
- Authors: Ghandi, Amir
- Date: 2012
- Type: Text , Thesis
- Full Text:
- Description: Spray drying is relatively cost effective, energy efficient and high throughput drying system, however, it is damaging to bacteria. This study investigated approaches and methods to improve the survival of lactic acid bacteria by modifying the drying conditions and/or adding protective substances to enhance bacterial survival and culture activity in spray dried culture powders. (Taken from Abstract)
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Ghandi, Amir
- Date: 2012
- Type: Text , Thesis
- Full Text:
- Description: Spray drying is relatively cost effective, energy efficient and high throughput drying system, however, it is damaging to bacteria. This study investigated approaches and methods to improve the survival of lactic acid bacteria by modifying the drying conditions and/or adding protective substances to enhance bacterial survival and culture activity in spray dried culture powders. (Taken from Abstract)
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
Latrobe Valley circular industrial ecosystem
- Authors: Ghayur, Adeel
- Date: 2019
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Climate change, energy security, pollution and increasing unemployment in the face of automation are four critical challenges facing every region in the twenty-first century, including the Latrobe Valley in Victoria, Australia. The Valley – location of the largest brown coal deposits and forest industry in the southern hemisphere – is undergoing unprecedented and rapid changes. Its ageing brown coal power plants are retiring and replacements are not planned, leading to job insecurity. Solutions are needed that ensure continued economic activity in the region whilst allowing for the Valley to contribute its fair share in the fight against the climate change. The aim of this study is to investigate a possible local solution that could help tackle these issues of the Latrobe Valley in addition to plastic pollution and energy insecurity. Transitioning from linear to circular materials flow is one possible solution that favours sustainability and job security. Consequently, a multiproduct succinic acid biorefinery is modelled, acting as an industrial hub in a potential Latrobe Valley circular economy. This allows for employment creation in the value-addition of its platform chemicals into carbon negative and environment-friendly products. Additionally, such a biorefinery concept has the capacity to tackle Post-combustion CO2 Capture (PCC) industry’s wastes. It is anticipated that any future utilisation of brown coal as an energy vector would entail PCC to ensure carbon neutrality. A PCC industry produces CO2 and amine wastes that require adequate disposal. The modelled biorefinery has the capacity to valorise both. The simulation and the techno-economic analysis show the modelled Carbon Negative Biorefinery consumes 656,000 metric tonnes (t) of pulp logs and 42,000 t of CO2 to produce 220,000 t of succinic acid, 115,000 t of acetic acid and 900 t of dimethyl ether, annually. Biorefinery’s CAPEX and OPEX stand at AU$ 635,000,000 and $ 180,000,000 respectively. The calculated Minimum Selling Price for succinic acid is $ 990/t, only 6.4% higher than a typical biorefinery. Subsequently, biorefinery’s capacity as an anchor tenant is also simulated via technical evaluations of four value-added products: • Poly(butylene succinate) as biodegradable polymer replacing petro-plastics – simulation results show 1 t of succinic acid produces 0.19 t of tetrahydrofuran and 0.44 t of poly(butylene succinate); • Carbon fibre for insulation products, sporting goods and foams – 1 t of lignin and 0.8 t of acetic anhydride produce 0.8 t of carbon fibre; • Succinylated lignin adhesive for replacing urea-formaldehyde in the wood industry – simulation results show the biorefinery concept having the capacity to valorise both waste amine and CO2 from a PCC plant; and • Renewable fuels like hydrogen as energy vectors – a small biorefinery can potentially provide dozens of gigawatt hours of stored power for backup and peak demands, annually. In summary, results of this research are: • A biorefinery can valorise PCC plant wastes; • Multiproduct succinic acid biorefinery is economically viable; • Renewable fuels are ideally suited as energy storage vectors for a renewable energy grid both in developing and developed countries; • Bioproducts can reduce CO2 emissions thereby mitigate climate change; • Bioproducts can replace petro-products and reduce pollution; • Bioproducts can replace construction industry materials associated with CO2 emissions; • Biorefineries can help a region transition from a linear to a circular economy; and • Circular economies have the potential to generate secure jobs. In conclusion, this research identifies platform biochemicals as potential key drivers in a linear economy’s transition to a circular economy.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
- Authors: Ghayur, Adeel
- Date: 2019
- Type: Text , Thesis , PhD
- Full Text:
- Description: Climate change, energy security, pollution and increasing unemployment in the face of automation are four critical challenges facing every region in the twenty-first century, including the Latrobe Valley in Victoria, Australia. The Valley – location of the largest brown coal deposits and forest industry in the southern hemisphere – is undergoing unprecedented and rapid changes. Its ageing brown coal power plants are retiring and replacements are not planned, leading to job insecurity. Solutions are needed that ensure continued economic activity in the region whilst allowing for the Valley to contribute its fair share in the fight against the climate change. The aim of this study is to investigate a possible local solution that could help tackle these issues of the Latrobe Valley in addition to plastic pollution and energy insecurity. Transitioning from linear to circular materials flow is one possible solution that favours sustainability and job security. Consequently, a multiproduct succinic acid biorefinery is modelled, acting as an industrial hub in a potential Latrobe Valley circular economy. This allows for employment creation in the value-addition of its platform chemicals into carbon negative and environment-friendly products. Additionally, such a biorefinery concept has the capacity to tackle Post-combustion CO2 Capture (PCC) industry’s wastes. It is anticipated that any future utilisation of brown coal as an energy vector would entail PCC to ensure carbon neutrality. A PCC industry produces CO2 and amine wastes that require adequate disposal. The modelled biorefinery has the capacity to valorise both. The simulation and the techno-economic analysis show the modelled Carbon Negative Biorefinery consumes 656,000 metric tonnes (t) of pulp logs and 42,000 t of CO2 to produce 220,000 t of succinic acid, 115,000 t of acetic acid and 900 t of dimethyl ether, annually. Biorefinery’s CAPEX and OPEX stand at AU$ 635,000,000 and $ 180,000,000 respectively. The calculated Minimum Selling Price for succinic acid is $ 990/t, only 6.4% higher than a typical biorefinery. Subsequently, biorefinery’s capacity as an anchor tenant is also simulated via technical evaluations of four value-added products: • Poly(butylene succinate) as biodegradable polymer replacing petro-plastics – simulation results show 1 t of succinic acid produces 0.19 t of tetrahydrofuran and 0.44 t of poly(butylene succinate); • Carbon fibre for insulation products, sporting goods and foams – 1 t of lignin and 0.8 t of acetic anhydride produce 0.8 t of carbon fibre; • Succinylated lignin adhesive for replacing urea-formaldehyde in the wood industry – simulation results show the biorefinery concept having the capacity to valorise both waste amine and CO2 from a PCC plant; and • Renewable fuels like hydrogen as energy vectors – a small biorefinery can potentially provide dozens of gigawatt hours of stored power for backup and peak demands, annually. In summary, results of this research are: • A biorefinery can valorise PCC plant wastes; • Multiproduct succinic acid biorefinery is economically viable; • Renewable fuels are ideally suited as energy storage vectors for a renewable energy grid both in developing and developed countries; • Bioproducts can reduce CO2 emissions thereby mitigate climate change; • Bioproducts can replace petro-products and reduce pollution; • Bioproducts can replace construction industry materials associated with CO2 emissions; • Biorefineries can help a region transition from a linear to a circular economy; and • Circular economies have the potential to generate secure jobs. In conclusion, this research identifies platform biochemicals as potential key drivers in a linear economy’s transition to a circular economy.
- Description: Doctor of Philosophy
The effects of the dislocation of a dominant player on competition within a fine art cluster
- Authors: Giblin, Deidre
- Date: 2012
- Type: Text , Thesis
- Full Text:
- Description: This investigation examines the applicability of cluster theory in predicting what happens in a set of business relationships when a key player moves out for an indeterminate time but indicates it will be back. It involves a longitudinal research design using a mixed method approach to explore the dynamic inter-relationships of the fine art sector in this period of change. The main research site is the Melbourne fine art cluster, but the work also includes three situations that help to reflect the relevant system dynamics. This multidisciplinary study contributes to the field of regional development, industrial organisation and innovation by analysing how, as the structure of a cluster changes, the behaviour of cluster participants and the nature of competition in the cluster is affected. Hence, this exploratory investigation moves beyond commonalities between suppliers, resources and technologies to consider the cluster’s distinctive character and support networks which act as a significant knowledge resource to the regional cluster. Various models of cluster operation are examined in order to identify underlying issues of networks, systems and a cluster’s configuration in terms of power relationships and authority. By documenting the change process, the research contributes significant clarity to the understanding of the structural dynamics that enhance cluster strength. It demonstrates that the growth of inter-relationships and innovative activity in a dislocation period can diminish greatly as the key player returns to its pivotal role. This reinforced the importance of interactivity, both within and outside the cluster as a vital contributor to the fine art industry’s potential and success. The longitudinal design of this study allows for the consideration and examination of patterns of activity and behaviour, over time, with an emphasis on the cluster’s intangible and tangible assets while its retrospective approach provides an opportunity for comparability. Qualitative data was collected using interviews while additional data was gathered using attitudinal scales and examined using category identification. However, because of the sample size this was a minor part of the study. The study clearly demonstrates the significant control that the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) exerts on the sector through its ability to manage information and resources and how during dislocation this influence was reduced and the cluster took on a different character. This was evident in that small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the Victorian fine art cluster became more self-sufficient, suggesting that the dominant player suppresses SME innovativeness in the cluster. The structure of the cluster and particularly the behaviour that a dominant player induces may be important in a consideration of the ideal nature of a cluster. The contribution of the longitudinal data shows that change in the absence of a key player can be positive but that policy needs to be revised if it is demonstrated that the cluster is vulnerable to that key player.
- Description: Doctorate (Philosophy)
- Authors: Giblin, Deidre
- Date: 2012
- Type: Text , Thesis
- Full Text:
- Description: This investigation examines the applicability of cluster theory in predicting what happens in a set of business relationships when a key player moves out for an indeterminate time but indicates it will be back. It involves a longitudinal research design using a mixed method approach to explore the dynamic inter-relationships of the fine art sector in this period of change. The main research site is the Melbourne fine art cluster, but the work also includes three situations that help to reflect the relevant system dynamics. This multidisciplinary study contributes to the field of regional development, industrial organisation and innovation by analysing how, as the structure of a cluster changes, the behaviour of cluster participants and the nature of competition in the cluster is affected. Hence, this exploratory investigation moves beyond commonalities between suppliers, resources and technologies to consider the cluster’s distinctive character and support networks which act as a significant knowledge resource to the regional cluster. Various models of cluster operation are examined in order to identify underlying issues of networks, systems and a cluster’s configuration in terms of power relationships and authority. By documenting the change process, the research contributes significant clarity to the understanding of the structural dynamics that enhance cluster strength. It demonstrates that the growth of inter-relationships and innovative activity in a dislocation period can diminish greatly as the key player returns to its pivotal role. This reinforced the importance of interactivity, both within and outside the cluster as a vital contributor to the fine art industry’s potential and success. The longitudinal design of this study allows for the consideration and examination of patterns of activity and behaviour, over time, with an emphasis on the cluster’s intangible and tangible assets while its retrospective approach provides an opportunity for comparability. Qualitative data was collected using interviews while additional data was gathered using attitudinal scales and examined using category identification. However, because of the sample size this was a minor part of the study. The study clearly demonstrates the significant control that the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) exerts on the sector through its ability to manage information and resources and how during dislocation this influence was reduced and the cluster took on a different character. This was evident in that small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the Victorian fine art cluster became more self-sufficient, suggesting that the dominant player suppresses SME innovativeness in the cluster. The structure of the cluster and particularly the behaviour that a dominant player induces may be important in a consideration of the ideal nature of a cluster. The contribution of the longitudinal data shows that change in the absence of a key player can be positive but that policy needs to be revised if it is demonstrated that the cluster is vulnerable to that key player.
- Description: Doctorate (Philosophy)
The application of marketing concepts to occupational health and safety in an Australian University
- Authors: Giles, Murray
- Date: 1993
- Type: Text , Thesis , Masters
- Full Text: false
- Description: The dissertation examines the legal, financial and social responsibilities that Universities have in complying with minimum occupational health and safety performance standards.The marketing principles and techniques identified in this project may assist Occupational Health and Safety managers to enhance the service provided.
- Description: Masters of Applied Science, Occupational Health and Safety
- Authors: Giles, Murray
- Date: 1993
- Type: Text , Thesis , Masters
- Full Text: false
- Description: The dissertation examines the legal, financial and social responsibilities that Universities have in complying with minimum occupational health and safety performance standards.The marketing principles and techniques identified in this project may assist Occupational Health and Safety managers to enhance the service provided.
- Description: Masters of Applied Science, Occupational Health and Safety