Minerva Elements Records
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ItemCo-optimization of Frequency Regulation Capacity and Performance Offered by Microgrid under Uncertainty( 2023-04)With the increasing penetration of renewable energy sources (RESs), frequency regulation resources such as conventional generators are being replaced by distributed energy resources (DERs), which brings a challenge in providing frequency regulation with guaranteed performance under the uncertain RES generation and also under the potential uncoordinated response of resources with different regulation capabilities. However, the requirement for a minimum 1 MW capacity for participation in the wholesale market for demand-side frequency regulation service may pose a barrier for individual renewable energy sources RESs that lack the necessary generation capacity. To address this limitation, the global energy market is evolving with the involvement of independent demand response (DR) aggregators in the frequency regulation market. The existing studies have extensively examined the utilization of demand-side management of electricity consumption by aggregating various types of end-users, e.g., energy storage systems (ESSs), hydro pumps, and rooftop solar to provide ancillary services. However, the literature lacks consideration for minimizing real-time performance errors embedded in day-ahead and potential intraday optimization to maximize regulation performance payment according to market dynamics. Additionally, the uncertainty generated by RESs can significantly impact frequency regulation performance and pose challenges to coordinating ESSs. To fill those gaps, this study proposes a day-ahead scheduling model for demand-side frequency regulation service offered by microgrids (MGs) with resources belonging to different performance groups. The MG aims at maximizing both performance and capacity payment while minimizing operational costs. The model is based on a scenario-based chance-constrained formulation which determines the hourly baseline and frequency regulation capacity for the next day as well as the real-time control strategies for the resources. Extensive simulations and comparative studies are conducted, and the numerical results show that the proposed mechanism can increase the revenue of the MG by 9%, achieved through providing the frequency regulation service to the utility grid. This improvement is realized while ensuring the security of the power supply under 10000 scenarios of solar power generation and regulation signal conditions. Besides, the case studies also show that the proposed reserve provision mechanism results in a 4% reduction in overall costs compared to the current setup in the Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Maryland (PJM) market which is based on a proportional reserve allocation method.
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ItemOptimizing Stem Cell Models of the Human Gut-immune Barriers( 2024-01)Summary The adult human gut has an area of about 200 to 400 square meters. This massive surface is covered by a layer of epithelial cells that creates a physical barrier to the environment, whilst absorbing nutrients from food. Appropriate regulation of host immune responses to luminal contents helps maintain both tissue and microbial homeostasis in the gut tract. Impaired inflammatory regulation of the immune-epithelial interface is associated with chronic diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Together with the gut epithelium, intestinal macrophages produce immune regulators that control recruitment and activation of adaptive immune processes, including regulatory T cells in the intestine. We know that macrophages are recruited to the developing gut from the earliest stages of organogenesis, however, the role of these cells in healthy gut development has not been widely studied. Most of our knowledge about gut macrophages comes from studying animal models, especially rodents. This project forms part of a larger program of research aimed at understanding the role of macrophages at epithelial barriers associated with skin, gut, and mucosal surfaces. We will use induced pluripotent stem cells to derive macrophages and test optimal co-culture conditions that mimic the immune-epithelial niche. We hypothesize that introduction of macrophages to a gut epithelial model will improve the development and integrity of the in vitro gut epithelium. The hypothesis will be tested using established models of gut epithelium and introducing iPSC-macrophages to assess epithelial barrier integrity, inflammatory reactivity to injury, and immune tolerance of commensal gut bacteria.
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Itemfor a conversation, now, sometimes, oops- oh no... sorry, i mean, somewhere… for a conversation, somewhere( 2023-11)This practice-led research asks: is it possible to hold a conversation in space forever? It suggests we can find and hold the materialisation of a conversation once it’s left the people that have had it. Over the course of this research, an important strategy became attempting to think not in time, but rather, in space. Thinking in space allowed the ability to wonder not when something was but where it is. In this project conversation has been utilised as inspiration, methodology and material. The exhibition at the Fiona and Sidney Myer Gallery builds a space for a conversation to happen and a space where the remains of those conversations can stay. The project focuses on divine conversation, where the content and outcomes are not important, what is important is that two people share the desire to talk to each other. The space holds two performative representations of conversations. They are: (i) a continuous conversation, where over 50 participants take part to help hold a constant conversation over the duration of the exhibition. (ii) what you are doing, where two actors sporadically perform a scripted dialogue of the narration of their conversation, told through the other. Being inspired by thinking in space - the gallery turns into a piazza consisting of several elements holding these conversations: performance furniture which are structures for the performers and participants to engage with, being designed around places where the vibrations of a conversation might linger, like a horizon or a corner constructed from steel, paint and plywood. Object/Sculpture Characters, which are two operated neon lights, simulating day and night, and a water fountain constructed from steel concrete and water flowing help hold the particles of saliva from the conversations spoken. The dissertation shifts through poetry, comparisons to other artists and theorists, personal accounts and stories. It discusses the process of making this artwork, from its muses to the conversations had during the two years it took to realise the project and the materials used. The writing brings the artwork into conversation with: theorist Carlo Rovelli; writer bell hooks; playwright Caryl Churchill; artists Sophie Calle, Ragnar Kjartansson, Lisa Radford, Damiano Bertoli, and Gian Lorenzo Bernini; choreographers Simone Forti and Pina Bausch; performances by Forced Entertainment, Tino Seghal, Aphids, and Back to Back Theatre company; comedians Andy Kaufmam, Kurt Braunohler, and Kristen Schaal; and poet-artist Madeline Ginns and artist- architect Arakawa.
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ItemEffect of Non-Anticoagulant Heparin on Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma( 2024-04)Oral squamous cell carcinoma is a global concern with alarming prevalence and poor survival rates. Recent evidence suggests that anticoagulants, such as heparin, may enhance cancer survival, but these medications also present challenges due to the risk of bleeding. Non-anticoagulant heparin, a novel heparin derivative, offers a promising solution to this challenge. We used the MTS proliferation assay (0/24/48/72 hrs), scratch assay (MuviCyte Live-Cell Assay Imaging System, 0-18 hrs), invasion Matrigel (24hrs), and cytotoxic assay (0-24 hrs) to assess the in vitro effects of NAH (10, 20, 40, 80 U/mL) and heparin (10, 20, 40, 80 U/mL) on two human OSCC (H400 and H357) and one normal oral keratinocytes (OKF6) cell lines and their ability to interfere with the chemotherapeutic agents 5-FU (1-5 ug/mL) and cisplatin (1-5 ug/mL). Interestingly, non-anticoagulant heparin (NAH) not only significantly induced cytotoxic effect on H400 and H357 at 80 U/mL but also inhibited the proliferation of cancer cells as early as 48 hours. This inhibition was comparable to that of heparin. Remarkably, neither drug exhibited cytotoxic effects on normal keratinocytes at the tested time points. Furthermore, both heparin and NAH significantly inhibited cell migration in H400 and H357 cells within 12 hours. Additionally, both drugs inhibited the invasion of cancer cell lines up to 24 hours of incubation. Importantly, the combination of these drugs with commonly used chemotherapeutic agents for the treatment of OSCC did not compromise their efficacy against the tested cell lines. Surprisingly, treatment of OKF6 cells with NAH significantly reduced the cytotoxic effects of chemotherapy. In conclusion, non-anticoagulant heparin demonstrates promising potential as an alternative to heparin for improving cancer survival in oral squamous cell carcinoma. NAH significantly reduced proliferation and inhibited migration and invasion in OSCC cells, without compromising the efficacy of commonly used chemotherapeutic agents 5 FU and cisplatin. Our results indicate the need for the immediate translation of this research to preclinical animal models.
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ItemWho is singing? An examination of models for proactive persona construction in popular music( 2023-10)This practice-led thesis is an investigation of approaches to constructing musical and visual persona within popular music. My creative work is used as a case study in which 4 personas are developed with reference to exemplars of practice in historical and current popular music. In exploring effective persona development this thesis draws on performance studies, persona studies, musicology, sociology and communication studies as a theoretical basis. The often-debated concept of authenticity, which interacts directly with perceptions of who a performer actually is when they perform, will be examined and its influence on the practitioner and popular music discourse in general will be addressed. The thesis investigates the following questions: 1) what effect does proactively exploring musical persona in the songwriting process have on creative outcomes? 2) what effect does proactively exploring visual persona have on how a singer-songwriter presents themselves in music videos and online content? 3) how do musical and visual persona interrelate? The answers to these questions will provide direction towards a model for a more deliberate approach to persona construction for singer-songwriters and other musical artists. In doing so this thesis positions persona in popular music within artistic practice rather than being discussed primarily in terms of marketing and branding.
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ItemThe use of robot-assisted surgery in reconstructive and functional urology( 2023-11)As surgical technology advances, bringing forth new devices and techniques, it becomes imperative for the medical profession to engage in rigorous due diligence to minimise potential harm to patients. Many countries have established robust processes for scrutinising medications, devices, and prostheses before their implementation in patient care. Both the general public and the medical community rely on these regulatory authorities to ensure safe access to medical devices and to safeguard patients from harm. Nevertheless, in recent years we have witnessed legal actions being taken against various medical device companies for their failure to adequately test products, resorting to shortcuts in the application process, which has subsequently led to permanent and debilitating harm. These failures emphasise the critical need for effective oversight by medical and public health authorities while also underscoring the individual responsibility of medical professionals and surgeons in upholding patient safety. A recent example of this failing is the incorrect use and insertion of pelvic mesh, which has been associated with complications from implantation. Whilst there were problems associated with implantation that ultimately became apparent, the complications associated with explantation are potentially much more severe. This low-volume, at-risk surgery, requires a different and more advanced skill set. The value of the credentialing process is intricately linked to the demonstration of thorough education and training, adherence to accreditation standards, compliance with reimbursement requirements, and alignment with state and federal laws. While the specifics of the credentialing processes may vary across healthcare institutions, it is imperative to consistently verify the authenticity of submitted documents to guard against fraudulent representations. A well-structured credentialing process serves as a robust defence against the admission of healthcare professionals with inadequate qualifications or training, thereby upholding the standard of patient care. Beyond the initial credentialing, ongoing audits of healthcare workers are essential. In the contemporary landscape of healthcare, characterised by an emphasis on quality, maintaining a detailed approach is crucial. This ongoing scrutiny ensures that the healthcare workforce remains in line with the highest standards, leaving minimal room for errors in the pursuit of delivering optimal patient care. The primary goal of this thesis is to develop credentialing guidelines on the use of robotic assistance surgery for reconstruction and functional urology. Underpinning this new field of surgical treatment, a critical review delves into the transferability of surgical skills, issues pertaining to training competency generally, credentialing of robotics-assisted surgery for related surgery and evaluation of other specialities robotic programmes. A Modified Delphi study was conducted to establish clinical consensus for the first guidelines on this topic. The second part of this project featured the introduction of a new robotic surgical procedure that implemented some of the ideas raised in Chapters 1 and 2. A critical review is included of the outcomes of this procedure as a multi-centre case series assessing the rate of successful removal of mesh, the functional outcomes at 12 months follow-up, recurrence of stress urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse, and sexual function outcomes.
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ItemReal-world Management and Outcomes for Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase (ALK)- rearranged Advanced Non-small Cell Lung Cancer and Impact of COVID-19 on Cancer Service Delivery( 2023-09)This thesis is divided into two parts. Part 1 - Real-world Management and Outcomes for Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase (ALK)-rearranged Advanced Non-small Cell Lung Cancer (ALK+ aNSCLC) ALK-rearrangements are found in 4% of Non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLC). Although this condition remains incurable, survival appears to be improving over time, with a multitude of selective oral tyrosine kinase inhibitors (ALK-inhibitors) now available and with many patients receiving multiple lines of therapy. Whilst next-generation ALK-inhibitors are standard of care in the first line, how to best sequence available therapies beyond this remains unclear. This thesis examines outcomes for real-world patients with ALK+ aNSCLC, using cohorts from AURORA (Australia) and Flatiron health (United States). Key findings: median overall survival (mOS) of 84 months in the AURORA cohort (n=171) and 37 months in the Flatiron cohort (n=737). Positive prognostic factors: never-smoking history, treatment in an academic setting and initial early stage at diagnosis. Gender was not prognostic. Treatment patterns varied and changed over time. Initial treatment with 2nd generation ALK-inhibitor was associated with improved survival over chemotherapy; initial treatment with 1st generation ALK-inhibitor followed by 2nd generation ALK-inhibitor was associated with improved survival compared to initial chemotherapy followed by 1st generation ALK-inhibitor. These retrospective observational studies represent the largest for people with ALK+ aNSCLC in Australia (AURORA) and globally (Flatiron). Future research may focus on intensifying treatment for people with a smoking history. Further work is required to determine why treatment in a community setting correlated with poorer survival in the US. Identifying optimal treatment sequences will require larger contemporary patient databases; collaboration is required among research organisations and with pharmaceutical companies conducting post-marketing studies. Part 2 - Impact of COVID-19 on Cancer Service Delivery Amid the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, significant shifts in patient presentation and oncology health service provision for people with lung and other cancer-types were observed globally. This research aimed to obtain timely real-world data on how clinicians perceived alterations in cancer service delivery due to COVID-19. Surveys were distributed to oncology clinicians through international professional societies in 2020. Clinicians highlighted substantial changes in oncology services. In the early period (May-June 2020), 89% of clinicians reported altering their practice due to COVID-19; including being less likely to initiate and more likely to cease systemic therapy in palliative and curative settings. Telehealth use was rapidly expanded; many clinicians reported concerns that this may negatively impact patient outcomes. Clinicians reported seeing fewer new patients in clinic. In the later period (October-November 2020), clinicians reported more advanced disease presentations and a swing back towards pre-COVID practice. Clinicians’ reported concerns regarding potential negative impact on cancer-related outcomes are further substantiated by global reports of fewer cancer diagnoses across 2020 and modelling studies predicting increase cancer-related mortality and health-care costs due to such changes. For cancer-related outcomes to be optimised through future pandemic events, heath-systems and policy makers need to have implementable action plans to rapidly upscale mitigation strategies, such as public education campaigns, telehealth and hospital in the home.
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ItemPainting the Restless Space( 2023-11)Painting the Restless Space is a material examination of the unstable nature of embodiment. Sitting under the studio work are two ‘shocking’ events of ‘carnage’ that instilled in me a personal concern for the precarious condition of bodies. Instability has become the subject and the method of the work, reinforced in the way that distinct materials behave and relate to one another. Moving from flesh (the referent) to paint and text (the signifiers) the hope for replication fades in the fluidity of paint and the potential of ‘wandering’ words. My attempts can only approximate flesh, as stand-ins, prostheses, and failures. Unpicking the illusory nature of boundaries that demarcate the self, I am asking “What can bodies do?” What are their limits and entanglements? What can we know and feel about our bodies through the ways that we relate to objects? How can a creative practice engage with processes of bodily reconfiguration, recontextualisation, and reinterpretation, exploring subjectivity as porous, entangled, and contingent? As a painter, I seek to find painterly ways to respond to these questions and to enliven the possibilities for knowledges rooted in the uncertainty and messiness of embodiment. Through this research, I articulate how my studio practice draws on a range of personal experiences, theoretical fields, and artistic practices to consider how painting can help us discover new ways of unsettling existing modes of looking and thinking about bodies.
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ItemManuel de Falla and The Guitar: A Discussion of Three New Transcriptions( 2023-09)This performance-based research project focuses on Spanish composer Manuel de Falla (1876-1946) and includes: a 70-minute performance recording; an 12,000-word written dissertation; and guitar transcriptions of three numbers from Falla’s orchestral ballets. The project explores how the Spanish guitar music influenced Falla’s compositions, his relationships with guitarists, and his music that has been transcribed for guitar. The performances include Falla’s compositions, works that were inspired by Falla, and two sonatas by Falla’s contemporaries – the Spanish composer Federico Moreno Torroba (1891-1982) and Mexican composer Manuel Maria Ponce (1882-1948), who were both the pioneers of guitar music in the twentieth century. Falla’s music has been very popular among guitarists, and he also worked closely with renowned guitarists such as Miguel Llobet (1878-1938) and Angel Barrios (1882-1964). Falla’s Homenaje a Debussy (1920) is regarded one of the most important guitar compositions of the twentieth century, while most of his orchestral works were strongly influenced by guitar music. Many guitarists such as Llobet, Emilio Pujol (1886-1980), Julian Bream (1933-2020), John Williams (1941- ) and Manuel Barrueco (1952- ) have arranged and performed transcriptions of Falla’s works for orchestra. An important part of this project is to create three new transcriptions selected from numbers from two of Falla’s most well-known ballets - El amor brujo (1915) and El sombrero de tres picos (1919). In the dissertation, the new transcriptions are discussed in relation to Falla’s orchestral scores, and compared to well-known published transcriptions. A performance guide for the transcriptions is also provided.
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ItemDissecting the role of gd T cells in T cell priming for liver stage immunity( 2023-11)Liver resident memory T cells (TRM) are poised for protection against repeat infection and rapidly form a robust defence against tissue-specific insults such as liver stage malaria. A direct correlation between liver stage immunity and gd T cells has been observed both in mice (Zaidi et al. 2017) and in humans (Seder et al. 2013; Ishizuka et al. 2016), but the precise molecular mechanisms by which these gd T cells exert their protective effect are yet to be defined. In mice, intravenous injection with radiation-attenuated sporozoites (RAS) confers sterile protection against challenge with live sporozoites. This protection is mediated by responding antigen-specific CD8+ and CD4+ T cells that migrate to the liver and form resident-memory T cells (TRM). In the absence of gd T cells, protective CD8+ liver TRM are not generated, leaving mice susceptible to reinfection. Using Plasmodium-specific T cells as a readout for effective immunity, we determined that IL-4 is important for the accumulation of CD8+ and CD4+ T cells. By utilising complex in vivo systems including mixed-bone marrow chimeras and adoptive transfer of gd T cells, we revealed that gd T cell-derived IL-4 is crucial for the expansion of antigen-specific CD8+ T cells. In addition, in vivo neutralisation of IL-12 or IFN-g confirmed a partial dependency for these cytokines, despite their traditionally opposing function to IL-4. Given IL-4, IFN-g and IL-12 all have a clear role in CD8+ T cell priming following RAS vaccination, we hypothesised that IL-4 and IFN-g synergise to enhance cDC1 activity. These findings led to our development of a novel model to reconstitute cDC1-deficient mice using CRISPR-edited primary dendritic cells. This model enabled the investigation of the mechanism by which gd T cell derived IL-4 leads to DC activation and therefore effective CD8+ T cell expansion for memory development. Collectively, this project has shown a significant role for IL-4 in the priming of malaria-specific CD8+ T cells and demonstrates a novel pathway for collaboration between gd T cells, cDC1s, and CD8+ T cells, revealing the potential for harnessing gd T cells in vaccination strategies against malaria.