13553 research outputs found
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Sound Meanings: Acoustic Approaches to Flutes from Aotearoa and the Pacific
No full textThis PhD thesis delves into an exploration of five distinctive flute-like instruments Indigenous to New Zealand and the greater Polynesian region. The study focuses on three noteworthy Māori taonga pūoro instruments—namely, the pūtōrino, kōauau, and nguru—along with two types of nose flutes found within Polynesian territories. Through the analytical methods of signal processing, with a strong emphasis on fundamental analysis and spectral investigation, the sounds of these instruments are thoroughly investigated. These methodologies offer a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of the intricate sounds produced by these culturally significant instruments. Incorporating the field of acoustics, the study establishes the link between the auditory attributes of these instruments and their acoustic structures. By meticulously scrutinizing sound characteristics, this research seeks to speculate on the inherent connections and subsequently distills these insights into a comprehensive summary. This study also examines an extensive array of collected specimens, allowing for insightful speculations regarding the unique qualities of these samples and the significance of various construction intricacies. Further, this dissertation delves into the relationship that exists between the documented findings and various facets of instrumental craftsmanship, performance, and usage, which contributes significantly to the realm of music studies focused on these specific instruments. This comprehensive exploration not only enhances the understanding of the musical heritage rooted in New Zealand and greater Polynesia but also sheds light on the broader cultural and sociocultural context in which these instruments hold immense value.</p
For Place, Of Place A Framework for Place-led Architecture
No full textThis research explores the concept of ‘place’ as a fundamental generator for design in an urban setting, focusing on the southern Te Aro district in Wellington. The research identifies the issues of placeless architecture, emphasising its visual and functional disconnect from its surroundings and placelessness’s adverse effects on community well-being. Through a ‘design as research’ approach, this research explores the multifaceted attributes of ‘place’ and addresses the challenges architects face in navigating complex data sets.To address the complex nature of place, the fundamental concepts of generative AI is incorporated into the design process. A manual framework is proposed, which takes existing desirable qualities from an area (data) and combines these with design outcomes (prompt) to generate design explorations (output). This process is repeated with different design outcomes, each representing a unique sub-component of place. These explorations are applied to Te Aro, generating mixed- use, precinct-scaled architecture in an under-activated area.The framework leverages the dynamic between machine analysis and human curation, establishing a hybrid process that combines AI’s ability to handle complex data sets with a human’s holistic consideration of unquantifiable concepts. The research demonstrates that balancing ‘passive’ systematic design with ‘active’ decision-making, results in architecture that directly responds to and enhances the diverse characteristics of Te Aro.Throughout the design process, it becomes evident that a fully manual implementation of the proposed framework is very time-consuming. However, it serves as a proof of concept, suggesting that with dedicated technology automation, the Framework could be widely applied in the industry. The collaborative interplay between machine and curator presents a promising avenue for future development, enabling architecture to evolve organically from its place.</p
Providing a Tephrochronological Framework for 10Myrs of Deposition in the Wairarapa
No full textThe Wairarapa lies within a fore-arc section of the Hikurangi Margin, New Zealand. Since the Late Miocene the depositional environment here has developed from deep marine to fluvial and terrestrial settings as a result of the emergence of Aotearoa, New Zealand's (ANZ) landmass. Superimposed on this record of shallowing and emergence is a series of cyclothems which reflect sea level changes during glacial and interglacial periods. Active volcanism which continued from ≈22 Ma through to the present day resulted in the deposition of 40 observed tephra deposits from in the Wairarapa. These encompass activity from the Coromandel Volcanic Zone, Tauranga Volcanic Zone and Taupō Volcanic zone since 22Ma and provide opportunity for region wide, temporal correlation of the Wairarapa's sedimentary record. In order to constrain sedimentation rates and depositional ages this study uses modern tephrochronological techniques such as EPMA and LA-ICP-MS point analysis to analyse the geochemical composition of glass, as well as U-Pb-Th radiometric dating of zircons to determine zircon crystallisation ages for 40 deposits from the Wairarapa region. Overall, this study provides new geochemical data for 25 of the 40 sampled deposits as well as five new absolute ages which provide the basis for a new tephrochronological framework for 10 Myrs of deposition the Southern Wairarapa.</p
Distributed Architecture for Procedural Terrain Generation in Video Games
No full textProcedural generation is often used to create maps and levels in video games in real-time as opposed to loading designer made levels from file. A single player game on a single machine can easily produce the game world by itself. However in a multiplayer game the additional players will also need the game world generated for them. The host machine will need to be capable of generating the game world for all active players by itself which leads to limitations on the number of players that can be playing at once. The goal of this thesis was to understand the relationship between procedural content generation and the distribution of game processes. By distributing content generation to the client machines, it could lighten the load on the host machine negating performance loss from additional clients. Tests were run comparing the time taken when distributing verses not distributing procedural generation requests to the clients. The test showed a significant improvement in generation speed when having client nodes aid the server, especially when the host had a long queue of content needing to be generated.</p
Choice With No Regret – Mobility Induced Migration in Fog Computing
No full textFog computing is a highly virtualized platform that acts as an intermediary be- tween end-devices and cloud centers. Due to the close proximity between fog nodes and users, fog computing is ideal for latency-sensitive applications. To ensure Quality of Service (QoS) for mobile users, especially in applications like autonomous vehicles, fog computing employs a network slicing approach for efficient resource allocation. Moreover, services need to be kept close to users, necessitating the transfer of services from current fog nodes to closer nodes while users are mobile, a process known as ”mobility induced migration in fog computing”.This thesis introduces three novel methods: (1) Fuzzy Migration Decision (FMD)), (2) Efficient Destination Choice (EDC) and (3) Robust Intra-Slice Migration in Fog Computing. Each of these methods plays a distinct role in the migration process, encompassing the decision-making phase of when to initiate migration, the selection of the optimal destination node within the network, and the execution of migration in a manner that prioritizes robustness and low latency.The FMD algorithm consistently outperforms existing methods by determining the optimal time to start migration using fuzzy logic. It achieves approximately a 15% reduction in migration time and a 12% decrease in network usage compared to bench- mark algorithms.Similarly, the EDC algorithm, which aims to find the optimal destination node us- ing fuzzy logic and avoids negative impacts on network performance caused by mi- gration, achieves a 10.15% reduction in network usage compared to benchmark algo- rithms.Moreover, our proposed Robust Intra-Slice Migration in Fog Computing algorithm demonstrates a reduction of total migration time by around 10-26% and downtime by about 2-23% compared to non-robust post-copy migration techniques.The evaluation results demonstrate that the proposed algorithms effectively find a trade off between preserving QoS for users and enhancing network efficiency dur- ing their operation. Furthermore, when we execute the entire migration process using the proposed algorithms, there is a notable reduction in both migration latency and the number of migrations. This migration process exhibits robust performance when compared to other studies. These findings underscore how addressing all three mi- gration challenges (When, Where, and How) can significantly influence the overall outcome of mobility-induced migration.</p
The combined effects of ocean acidification, warming and light on Caulerpa spp.: The role of inorganic carbon physiology and species’ ranges
No full textCaulerpa is a widely distributed genus of chlorophytes (green macroalgae) that is important for its dietary, social, and coastal ecosystem value. Ocean acidification (OA) and ocean warming (OW) both threaten to change the distribution of macroalgae in New Zealand and globally. Two of the most common Caulerpa species in Te Whanganui a Tara Wellington, Aotearoa New Zealand, Caulerpa brownii and C. geminata, could have vastly different responses to both OA and OW because of their divergent dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) uptake strategies and distance from range edge. However, responses to both stressors of OA and OW could be heavily mediated by light. To address these concerns, I conducted four manipulative laboratory experiments to test the effects of OA, OW and marine heatwaves (MHWs), and light and interactive effects of two or more stressors on Caulerpa species.Responses in physiology and photo-physiology of both Caulerpa species to OA suggest that those macroalgae without a CO2 concentrating mechanism (CCM) and relying solely on diffusive CO2 for DIC will benefit more from OA due to the benefits of alleviation of current DIC limitation than those species which possess a CCM that are not currently DIC limited. Physiological and photo-physiological responses to OA were significantly impacted by irradiance, demonstrating the role of irradiance in mediating DIC physiology in Caulerpa species tested. I found that any benefits received from elevated CO2 under OA may be dependent on energy limitations which in turn affects photo-physiology differentially depending on the DIC uptake strategy operating. Growth and photosynthesis responses of Caulerpa spp., demonstrated that the species with a warm edge distribution in Wellington was more negatively impacted by OW than the species with a cold edge in Wellington, which was more tolerant to OW and MHWs. Exposure to multiple stressors (OA, OW, reduced irradiance) of a future ocean exhibited less severe responses to a combined stressors effect than the singular stressor effects. Overall, my research contributed new knowledge to add to literature about the effects of ocean change on macroalgae with various DIC uptake mechanism and distribution edge positions. The findings here provide evidence that for chlorophytes, especially Caulerpa spp., some species will likely survive under OA in future OW and reduced irradiance conditions in Wellington unless irradiance is further limited. These results suggest a shift in distribution range of Caulerpa spp. in New Zealand can be expected that could potentially change the community structure in these locations.</p
Influences on parliamentary procedure in New Zealand 1935 - 2015
No full textNew Zealand parliamentary procedure has been reformed gradually over the 80-year period between 1935 and 2015. It has moved away from its Westminster roots in some important respects, but its origins remain recognisable. This thesis studies how parliamentary procedure in New Zealand has changed and what has caused those changes in the period 1935 to 2015.Taking an interpretive approach, this project examined change from the perspective of the participants in it. The thesis drew on the model developed by James Mahoney and Kathleen Thelen in ‘A Theory of Gradual Institutional Change’ (2010), which categorises rule changes as displacement of existing rules by new ones; layering of new rules on existing ones; drift in which rules remain the same but their effect is altered; and conversion where rules are unchanged but are reinterpreted. It found that the New Zealand parliament favours change by layering and displacement, which occur in institutions where discretion to interpret rules is low. Because of a preference for written rules and regular review of procedures, there is little scope for conversion of rules or drift in their meaning. There has been a greater use of layering of new rules on existing ones since the change to the MMP electoral system, reflecting an increase in the number of veto players and the greater complexity in reaching consensus about change. Over the period of the study, detailed work of scrutiny of the executive, law-making and House management shifted from the plenary to committees. Layering was the preferred way to make changes to rules governing select committees, reflecting caution changing a part of the parliamentary machine that is well-regarded. The creation of the House business committee has been enthusiastically received and many additional responsibilities layered onto it since its inception in 1996. This reflects the general preference for layering, post-MMP, and the nature of the committee lending itself to the addition of responsibilities, rather than replacement of one role with another. While elected members are sensitive to public opinion, almost all changes to rules and practice are proposed by members or parliamentary officials. New Zealand has institutionalised regular review of its rules and takes a consensus approach to rule changes. This approach generally ensures incremental change but also makes regular review and change part of parliamentary culture. Ongoing reform is likely in light of the desire of parliamentary actors to keep the institution relevant to the public, the institutionalised review process and continued proposals for change.</p
Ante-fit: An Examination of Component-Driven Interventions for Holistic Architectural Retrofit
No full textAgainst the backdrop of a deteriorating housing stock, the converging climate and cost-of-living crises necessitate an urgent re-evaluation of energy performance within our existing building stock. Our existing homes are often cold, damp, and unhealthy, demanding excessive energy to heat that neither the occupant nor the planet can afford. This research critically evaluates contemporary approaches to architectural retrofit within New Zealand's existing detached housing stock, examining the relationship between energy efficiency, carbon life cycle assessment, and economic incentives.Incorporating findings from a review of the existing energy and emissions performance for turn-of-the-century housing, this research examines the transformative potential of component-driven retrofit. Simulation-based studies of building elements - Floor, Walls, Windows, Roof, and Ventilation - assess the impact of component-based intervention on sustainable building practice, economic prosperity, and occupant well-being. The outcomes of this study have been juxtaposed against varying extents of retrofit interventions to achieve holistic architectural outcomes that skillfully balance building performance and design.The research outcomes from this process underscore the subpar performance of our current homes, emphasising the urgent need for transformative action. However, meaningful change requires interventions to achieve the ambitious targets set forth by this research. The traditional approaches explored fall short of achieving these performance thresholds, demanding greater capacity for investment into full-scale and responsive architectural remediation.By amalgamating energy performance, carbon footprint, and economic viability metrics, this research provides a framework for understanding the limitations inherent within traditional approaches to retrofit design. Previously accepted solutions are insufficient to address building performance for the future and fail to lift our existing buildings out of the past. The necessity to push our ageing homes beyond existing standards critically reflects the contemporary ‘band-aid’ approach of retrofit design. This research evaluates how we approach the design of our homes and how traditionally accepted approaches must be expanded and rethought to achieve long-term sustainability.</p
Evaluation of a Two-Tiered Coaching Programme for Parents of Young Autistic Children
No full textAutism is a form of neurodivergence characterised by differences in social communication, the presence of passionate interests, and a preference for predictable activities and routines. Early support programmes can enhance the development of Autistic children and can lead to improvements in areas such as communication, play skills, cognition, and social engagement. Naturalistic developmental behavioural interventions (NDBIs) are a promising early support approach. Parent-mediated programmes, including parent-mediated NDBIs, are also a promising approach for supporting the learning and development of Autistic children. The rationale for parent-mediated supports includes the possibility that parents are well-placed to deliver teaching and learning opportunities throughout their children’s every-day routines, which may lead to greater consistency of learning and thus improved child outcomes. There may also be benefits for parents who participate in these programmes including improving parental stress and self-efficacy, as well as parent sense of competence and family cohesion. Additionally, parent-mediated approaches are a time and cost-effective alternative to intensive clinician-implemented supports. Despite the theoretical rationale for such approaches however, parent and child outcomes from individual parent-mediated NDBIs are variable. Therefore, more research is needed to understand the impact of parent-mediated NDBIs, and to evaluate adaptations that may improve the fit between parent and child needs, and the models that aim to support them. Tiered programmes or “stepped care” approaches may be an appropriate way to individualise the supports that families receive, while prioritising efficient service delivery. In a multi-tiered approach, individuals receive low-intensity support in initial tiers, and can then step up to higher levels of support if needed. This thesis consists of three main components. The first component was a systematic literature review of single-case evaluations of parent-mediated NDBIs. That review reports on study quality, participants, programme characteristics, aims, and outcomes across 17 studies published in the last 10 years (2014-2013). The second component was an original empirical study using a single-case multiple baseline design. The aim was to evaluate the efficacy of a two-tiered parent-coaching programme based on the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) – a comprehensive NDBI – for seven Autistic boys (aged 36-52 months) and their parents (5 mothers, 2 fathers). After a 10-week group coaching programme (Tier 1), all parents had increased their use of ESDM strategies. Changes in parent fidelity during the additional individual coaching (Tier 2) were mixed, but all parents maintained higher than baseline levels of fidelity. There were positive changes in parent stress levels pre- post-coaching. Across the two-tiers, positive results were found for most children’s levels of engagement, imitation, and communication. There were significant positive relationships between parent fidelity and both child engagement and child functional utterances.The third component was a qualitative study involving reflexive thematic analysis to analyse parents’ perceptions of participating in the two-tiered support programme. Four key themes and 13 subthemes were developed. The themes centred on (a) programme accessibility and participation, (b) experience of the two-tiered coaching process, (c) commitment and perseverance, and (d) outcomes. Several parents described barriers to accessing this programme including cultural considerations. Parents described many benefits of the two-tiered coaching design, and both strengths and challenges regarding the programme content, duration, process, coaching approach, and child experience. Parents reported both barriers and facilitators to implementing the programme strategies at home. Overall, parents were mostly satisfied with the programme outcomes, citing improvements for their child, themselves, and their families. Together, the results from these studies provide preliminary support for the feasibility, acceptability, and effectiveness of delivering parent mediated ESDM (P-ESDM) in groups, and for individualising supports in additional tiers for some families. More research is needed to see if these findings are replicable with larger sample sizes, and through community rather than researcher implementation. It would also be valuable to explore different approaches to customising supports in more intensive tiers, to better meet the unique needs of individual families.</p
Does harvesting age matter? Changes in structure and rheology of a shear-thickening polysaccharide from Cyathea medullaris as a function of age
No full textA shear-thickening polysaccharide from the New Zealand Black tree fern (Cyathea medullaris, commonly known as mamaku) extracted from different age fronds (stage 1: young, stage 2: fully grown and stage 3: old) was characterised in terms of structure and rheological properties. Constituent sugar analysis and 1H and 13C NMR revealed a repeating backbone of −4)-β-D-GlcpA-(1 → 2)-α-D-Manp-(1→, for all mamaku polysaccharide (MP) samples from different age fronds without any alterations in molecular structure. However, the molecular weight (Mw) was reduced with increasing age, from ~4.1 × 106 to ~2.1 × 106 Da from stage 1 to stage 3, respectively. This decrease in Mw (and size) consequently reduced the shear viscosity (ηs-Stage 1 > ηs-Stage 2 > ηs-Stage 3). However, the extent of shear-thickening and uniaxial extensional viscosity of MP stage 2 was greater than MP stage 1, which was attributed to a greater intermolecular interaction occurring in the former. Shear-thickening behaviour was not observed in MP stage 3
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