18397 research outputs found
Sort by
A novel non-EEG wearable device for the detection of epileptic seizures
No full textThe benefits of seizure detection include date and time of day stamping, frequency, intensity and alerting others. This project investigated the use of seizure-related non-EEG (brainwaves) changes in detecting epileptic seizures. Others have demonstrated the sensitivity of these signals and their inconspicuous nature, offering alternatives to EEG detection. I designed a device in a vest to capture seizure-specific changes in movement, muscle electrical activity, heart rate and breathing. This data can be used to develop a novelty detection (machine learning) algorithm from people without a history of seizures then that algorithm can be embedded in the same wearable to detect real-time seizures in people with epilepsy. This work is ongoing.</p
Recycled crumb rubber, glass and fly ash for the fabrication of thin panels via alkali activation in clay tiles
No full textThis thesis incorporated different percentages of crumb rubber, recycled glass and fly ash into clay roof tiles using alkaline activation. The role of the alkaline activator solutions of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and sodium silicate (Na2SiO3) was to improve microstructure bonding of samples also commonly used in the construction industry. The research aims to develop a low temperature prototype at 50, 60, 100, 110, 150, 160 and 200°C to identify the curing conditions of sample that can yield high compressive strength and make them suitable for the sustainable environment. The potential benefits of using fly ash, crumb rubber, glass and plastics in green buildings could improve material usage and disposal efficiency in Australia. The recycling materials encompass fly ash, crumb rubber, recycled glass and plastics at low temperature curing, an emerging technology in the construction sector.</p
Structural integrity assessment of the lithium-ion batteries
No full textLithium-ion batteries are prevalent in transportation applications and can fail due to internal short circuits often caused by mechanical loads. This research investigates battery deformations and short circuit initiations under external loads through in-situ experiments and simulations. The separator is identified as the most critical component, with its fracture behaviour directly related to short circuit initiations. Quasi-static experiments on batteries reveal that short circuits initiate in the separator's fracture areas, with electrode coating particles attached. 18650 cylindrical batteries exhibit rate-dependent effects and fail at smaller displacements under impact loads. These findings contribute to improving battery safety.</p
Experimental and numerical study of microscale fractures - Application to brittle fracture in thin films and ductile fracture in metals
No full textFracture toughness is crucial for engineering materials' reliability across industries. This thesis explores brittle fracture in thin films and ductile fracture in copper single crystals. Barium titanate thin films on silicon substrates are examined using micro-indentation and electron microscopy, revealing crack propagation and morphology. Stress-based and energy-based approaches quantify fracture resistance, with numerical modeling for validation. Ductile fracture focuses on void coalescence in copper, modeled via crystal plasticity finite element methods. The study investigates loading parameters' effects, including stress triaxiality and Lode parameter, on fracture processes and ultimate failure strain.</p
The effect of the flipped classroom method on EFL students’ reading anxiety and reading comprehension in a Vietnamese university context
No full textWith a quasi-experimental research design, Tran (2024) found that the flipped classroom method significantly improved English as a foreign language (EFL) students’ reading comprehension skills. Students had positive perceptions of this method, stating increased learning motivation, engagement, autonomy, satisfaction, and effectiveness. Focus-group discussions indicated reduced reading anxiety due to enhanced reading comprehension and intrinsic motivation. The study contributes to the literature and the development of a flipped classroom framework based on Flipped Learning, Cognitive Load Theory, and Self-Determination Theory for teaching EFL reading comprehension in higher education in Vietnam and other similar settings.</p
Future Weir Water Level Forecasting using Novel Neural Network Considering Climate Change Impacts
No full textThis research developed two novel neural network models, Salp Swarm Optimisation Neural Network (SSONN) and Whale Optimisation Neural Network (WONN), to predict daily water level at Batu Kitang Submersible Weir accurately. Using data from 2001 to 2021, these novel models significantly outperformed conventional neural network models in short-term forecasting. The study also extended to predict long-term water level up to 2100, emphasizing the need for improved water management strategies to address potential flooding risks due to climate change. This work enhanced water resource planning and flood mitigation, offering robust tools for future environmental management.</p
Impact of oscillatory parameters on gas transport in bifurcation geometries
No full textHigh-frequency ventilation (HFV) is a medical ventilation method which uses fast, shallow inflations. The small tidal volume per inflation means gas transport does not occur via emptying and refilling the lungs, and so how to optimise this transport is still not understood. This thesis investigates the relationship between oscillatory parameters and gas transport during high-frequency ventilation. This thesis reports gas transport can be maintained at higher frequencies than the frequencies currently utilised in clinics, thereby, minimising ventilator-induced lung injuries.</p
Shaping the Future of Aqua Exercise: Insights from the 2024 Think Tank
No full textThe 2024 Aqua Alliance Industry Forum Think Tank Report presents a comprehensive analysis of the current state and future direction of aqua exercise in Australia. Hosted by Aqua Alliance in collaboration with Swinburne University of Technology, the Think Tank brought together over 40 industry leaders to address critical challenges facing the sector. The report highlights key issues such as the diminishing workforce, marketing and branding challenges, and the need for improved education and professional development for aqua exercise instructors. Through detailed discussions, participants identified several solutions, including redesigning training programs, modernising marketing strategies, enhancing mentorship and support, and strengthening industry leadership and collaboration. The findings and recommendations aim to foster a sustainable and thriving aqua exercise industry, ensuring its continued growth and positive impact on community health and wellness.</p
Phase-space simulations of ultra-cold atoms and photonic quantum networks
No full textModern computers are powerful enough to solve a large swathe of problems in a reasonable time-frame. However, even the most powerful computers cannot solve certain problems in less than exponential time. Quantum computers aim to utilize the unique properties of quantum mechanics to drastically speed-up the computation time of such problems, but this introduces a problem: How does one validate their outputs? This thesis investigates this question for two types of specialized quantum computers: Gaussian boson samplers and false vacuum decay. Methods are developed to simulate such devices in the computationally hard regime, providing a means to validate their outputs.</p
Characterisation and application of newly isolated coliphages and Salmonella phages as biocontrol agents on fresh-cut mixed vegetables
No full textThis research focuses on isolating bacteriophages to effectively eliminate bacteria on fresh produce, which is often consumed without further processing. The newly isolated bacteriophages were biologically and genetically characterised to assess their suitability as biocontrol agents. Promising results were observed in in situ studies on fresh-cut mixed vegetables treated with either single bacteriophage applications or a combination of bacteriophages and natural plant extracts. These findings highlight the potential of bacteriophages as an alternative method for controlling bacterial contamination in minimally processed foods, preserving the organoleptic properties of fresh food items while also reducing reliance on chemical sanitizers.</p