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Australia is a long-term key partner of China in coal trading, which is famous for high-quality coal and its price advantage. However, affected by the evolution of international political and economic situation, China has issued a coal ban on Australian coal since the end of 2020. The potential environmental consequences of this coal ban remain unclear. So, this paper quantifies the ban's impact on air pollution, human health and climate change by simulating the emission difference between the port scenario (simulating the emissions due to Australian coal import under business as usual) and the mine scenario (simulating the emissions due to domestic coal mining that converted from import share of Australian coal), and monetizes the losses into economic costs for direct comparison. The results illustrate the emission of SO 2 , VOCs and GHG in mine scenario grows up to 102, 12 and 6 times the amount of that in port scenario, mainly deriving from coal mining process in the North China Plain and Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau. It shows that the potential alternative of replacing import with mining leads to PM 2.5 pollution exacerbation and O 3 pollution abatement, which causes 148 (95 % CI: 101–183) non-communicable diseases and respiratory disease-related deaths in total. As for GHG, the emission of BC in transportation process and fugitive methane in coal mining process contribute to an impressive effect on warming potential with few quantities, which is worth noting in control process. In total, the environmental deterioration resulted in an economic loss of approximately 934 million yuan. The undiminished demand for high-quality industrial coal as well as growing carbon tax could make the economic value of the coal ban's environmental consequences more considerable in the near future. This research emphasizes the contradiction between economic development and environmental improvement caused by excessive dependence on coal and addresses a critical knowledge gap in assessing the ban's environmental impact by economic value. The result directly demonstrates the environmental consequences of the potential mining-replacing-import alternative and helps better understand environmental influences on the Chinese government's decision. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen has become an important component of the global transition to zero-carbon economies. Low-carbon and green hydrogen gas and fuel cell technology for domestic household use will depend on skilled practitioners, particularly gasfitters, to convert, install, and maintain hydrogen-based appliances. Upskilling gasfitters to work with hydrogen is critical to transitioning from natural gas to hydrogen for heating and cooking. Yet, limited research exists on training and upskilling trade practitioners in the context of renewable energy and low-carbon technologies. This paper makes a novel contribution to research on upskilling for renewable and low-carbon technologies by drawing on the findings from a survey of 1001 plumbers in Australia. The survey, designed using the Theory of Planned Behavior, aimed to predict behaviors regarding hydrogen training and ascertain social and structural enablers for such behavior. The results show that plumbers have limited awareness of hydrogen, yet have positive attitudes towards upskilling to work with the low-carbon fuel. Perceived benefits to business sustainability, customer service and safety underpin the positive attitudes. The research shows that while plumbers are enthusiastic about upskilling for hydrogen, upskilling policies and programs must ensure key stakeholders who inform plumbers' ongoing practice are on board and informed about hydrogen training opportunities. • Plumber/gasfitters expressed a strong positive attitude towards future hydrogen training. • Colleagues/peers and technical regulators were key stakeholders in supporting training. • Behavioral controls do not strongly influence the intention to undertake hydrogen training. • Plumber/gasfitters have limited awareness of hydrogen and transition plans. • Hydrogen training has a dual purpose of upskilling and educating the sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Comparing the United Kingdom's Renewables Obligation and Australia's Renewable Energy Target, this paper reconstructs the market for green certificates in which penalties are imposed on missed certificates. Our analysis shows that excess demand in the Renewables Obligation makes the penalty the minimum certificate price, but excess supply in the Renewable Energy Target makes the penalty the maximum certificate price. Further, excess supply also implies that the sales of certificates are not guaranteed in the Renewable Energy Target. Therefore, compared to the Renewables Obligation, generators face greater risk under the Renewable Energy Target as there is more uncertainty about the price of certificates and the possibility of sales. • Reconstruct demand and supply curves for TGC models. • Excess demand (supply) makes the penalty the minimum (maximum) certificate price. • The recycling mechanism pushes up the certificate price in the RO. • The refunding mechanism pushes down the certificate price in the RET. • Generators under TGC with excess supply face greater price risk and volume risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Are political leaders less popular among voters than they used to be? If so, why? Many studies have mapped a decline in citizens' political trust and satisfaction with democracy, but we know less about whether leader popularity is in decline, and if so, what drives this trend. This paper examines these questions using unique data on major party leader popularity and leadership traits from the Australian Election Study collected over four decades. The results show that Australia's major party leaders have become less popular over time. We test a theoretical model which explains declining leader popularity by partisan dealignment and the role of leader integrity. The analyses show that the effect of partisanship on leader popularity has weakened over time, while leader integrity traits have become more important. These findings apply to both major party leaders that have won elections as well as those leaders that have lost elections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spatial predictions of wildfire spread are used operationally and in risk estimation. It is important that their outputs are validated to quantify predictive performance and uncertainty. There are numerous loss functions for this simulation validation. Our paper synthesises ten common and five novel loss functions for evaluating the performance of wildfire predictions against observed or simulated wildfires. We describe each loss function; test their sensitivity to scale, rotation and translation; and demonstrate their application with three case study wildfires in south-eastern Australia. Based on their purpose, there are three categories of loss functions: general overlap, partial overlap and distance. Within these categories, there is functional redundancy as many loss functions are appropriate and perform similarly. Using loss functions from across the three different categories is the most comprehensive for evaluating wildfire models, but the choice depends on the simulation purpose and interpretation. • Spatial predictions of wildfire spread are frequently used but not always evaluated. • We synthesised fifteen loss functions for evaluating predicted vs observed wildfire spread. • There is not a 'best' loss function, it depends on simulation use and interpretation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Bifacial solar modules on rooftops offer up to 22.6% energy yield gains. • Rooftop reflectivity plays a crucial role in maximizing the bifacial potential. • Higher optimal tilt angles for bifacial modules, influenced by rooftop reflectivity. • Parallel intra-module interconnection supports achieving high bifacial yield gains. • Module-level optimizers enhance bifacial energy generation potential by up to 1.4% Bifacial solar modules have emerged as a promising technology in utility-scale photovoltaic systems, experiencing significant growth and capturing a substantial market share worldwide, as reported by the International Technology Roadmap for Photovoltaic (ITRPV) 2023. Despite this progress, the potential of bifacial modules in rooftop applications remains largely unexplored. This paper aims to address this knowledge gap by conducting a comprehensive study utilizing Monte Carlo Ray Tracing techniques coupled with detailed electrical modelling. The primary objective of this study is to investigate the viability of implementing bifacial solar modules on rooftops by examining the potential energy yield gains. By conducting a detailed analysis on a representative rooftop in Canberra, Australia, real-world conditions, and variations are incorporated, providing a more accurate assessment of the energy yield gains achievable in such settings. The simulation results reveal that the implementation of bifacial solar modules on rooftops within Australia can result in energy yield gains of up to 22.6%. These findings demonstrate the considerable potential of bifacial technology in maximizing solar energy production in rooftop applications. The analysis shows significant implications of module and system design on the potential gain. For example, electrical optimisation of individual modules in a system accounted for 1.4% of the bifacial gain. The analysis considers full annual time-step simulation, typical mechanical mounting components, installation orientations and module characteristics, ensuring practical relevance and reliability of the results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Mentoring literature contains diverse, but as yet unclassified, mentoring relationship types. • Mentoring for young people young people transitioning out of care must address specific contextual needs and barriers. • More attention is needed in mentoring literature on the policy context and the nature of the gender and power in mentoring relationships. In Australia, out-of-home care (OoHC) is provided to safeguard children and young people unable to live with their families. Typically, this care stops at 18 years of age, leaving many young people without the relational support to find employment and stable accommodation. Mentoring is increasingly proposed as a way to support young people exiting care, though the types of mentoring and contextual factors vary considerably. This rapid review aims to identify key features of mentoring programs that support young people in OoHC. This paper utilised a rapid review methodology to survey the academic literature on mentoring programs with young people in OoHC. The authors conducted literature searches in October 2022 using a search string designed to provide targeted exposure to the literature. Articles were limited by year and location, with the specific search string and limitations applied to the Scopus database, and Proquest and Informit platforms. Utilising literature, we identified five overlapping models for mentor–mentee relationships into a provisional typology of five categories based on varying levels of formality and familiarity in the relationships: 'formal', 'natural', 'near-age', 'peer', and 'therapeutic'. In doing so, we identified seven important features of mentor–mentee relationships: shared experiences, relationship duration, boundaries and other relationships, identity and self-worth, educational contexts, power and participation, and role modelling. We identified four issues relating to mentoring in OoHC that are informed by the needs and barriers experienced by young people: training and support for mentors, unique challenges faced by young people in OoHC, transition out of care, and the matching process. Lastly, we established what might impact mentoring programs buy critically reflecting on the policy context and notions of empowerment. This rapid review of mentoring programs for care-experienced young people seeking employment offers valuable insights to inform future programs. The findings highlight diverse and unclassified mentoring relationship types, the absence of anticipated gender-specific findings, a lack of examination of the policy context, and a need for more robust conceptualisations of empowerment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fifth-generation district heating and cooling (5GDHC) systems have the potential to provide simultaneous heating and cooling, allowing for energy exchange between users with different needs. However, their viability in mild climates with a higher share of cooling demand remains unclear. In this paper, we propose a framework for assessing the engineering, economic and environmental performance of a 5GDHC system compared to a state-of-the-art business-as-usual solution and demonstrate it through a practical case study for a university campus in Melbourne, Australia. When accessible heat sources and sinks are available, the 5GDHC system provides a cost-effective solution, with annual cost savings between 9 and 29 % and GHG emissions reduction between 25 and 58 % compared to an already advanced business-as-usual system. Additionally, by using peak off-peak tariffs and an hourly emission factor for the electricity consumed, we demonstrate the 5GDHC operational flexibility in pursuing different objectives, such as minimising cost or emissions, respectively. The results suggest that 5GDHC systems are an economically and environmentally viable solution in milder climates, and a successful implementation of 5GDHC in Australia can create new market opportunities and pave the way for its adoption in other countries with similar climatic conditions and no established history of district heating systems. • 5GDHC systems are analysed in a new context with a milder climate. • A multi-dimensional assessment framework is proposed. • The framework is demonstrated through a practical case study in Melbourne, Australia. • Flexibility is assessed through varying electricity tariffs and emission factors. • The strong performance of the 5GDHC system offers insights into similar contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurately predicting estuaries water quality is essential to support immediate intervention to water quality problem management. Deep learning is used to improve forecasting of water quality parameters in many aquatic systems. However, it is frequently constrained by low data frequency and quality. High-frequency, continuous monitoring using integrated in-situ water quality and environmental sensors can be an input to deep learning models resulting in highly accurate water quality and environmental predictions. This paper proposes a novel approach to improve forecasting of water quality and environmental variables. The results of the real-world data from the Swan Canning Estuary sites show how well the suggested model works. With different sizes of training and testing sets, the model can still predict the increased number of hours in high scores. Eliminating highly correlated variables impact the model's performance, emphasising the usefulness of strongly correlated variables in scarce data scenarios. • This article proposes a framework to enhance water quality variable forecasting. • The framework reframes the time series problem as a supervised learning problem. • The results on the set of data from the estuary show how well the framework works. • The approach is envisaged to support management in detecting water quality issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a robust cooperative distributed task allocation and mission planning system that enables a fleet of a certain class of autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) for persistent underwater ecological monitoring and preservation. The proposed system is developed based on a distributed algorithm that optimizes task allocation and mission planning in real-time while considering environmental constraints, sensor capabilities, communication limitations, as well as system failures. A realistic case study of monitoring and control of Crown-Of-Thorns Starfish (COTS) in Australia's Great Barrier is utilized to investigate how the proposed system can contribute to the inspection and eradication of the maximum possible COTS in a limited mission time in the exposure of uncertainty of mission failure caused by internal/external faults. The effectiveness and robustness of our approach are validated through extensive qualitative and quantitative simulations. • The Deliberative and Reactive Planning oversees mission formation, competency-aware task collocation, scanning and omission, cooperation, and failure accommodation and recovery of COTSbot AUVs during the operation. • The proposed distributed cooperative system enhances fault tolerance compared to centralized systems. • The architecture offers a truly scalable system that can incrementally adapt to the number of AUVs without requiring redesign or adjustment of system parameters while ensuring no overlap in AUV operations. • The system contributes to enhancing situational awareness by allowing robots to share data and information, providing a more comprehensive picture of the mission environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although noteworthy efforts towards energy storage participation in electricity markets have been witnessed worldwide during the last decades, market mechanisms for optimal storage integration are yet to be comprehensively studied. This paper presents a novel approach wherein a multi-period look-ahead market is proposed to progressively solve the optimisation problem over a receding horizon, incorporating intertemporal constraints to enable forward planning. The focus is specifically on modelling the bidding behaviour of energy storage, and to address this, we develop two distinct models for the participation of energy storage in the market. The integrated model aims to schedule the future dispatch of the storage to minimise total operational cost, taking into account the fixed costs of the storage, while the strategic model pursues the dual ambition to maximise storage profit by formulating a bilevel optimisation problem. We validate the viability of our proposed market mechanisms through case studies on the Australian National Electricity Market. We conduct case studies which provide evidence that both the strategic and integrated bidding models effectively address the requirement for forward planning, resulting in reduced market costs and volatility. Notably, the strategic model outperforms in terms of generating higher storage revenue, while the integrated model exhibits a slight advantage in terms of lower market costs compared to the strategic model. • Development of a multi-period look-ahead market for storage integration in electricity markets. • Model of strategic bidding using a bilevel optimisation model, vs an integrated bidding model. • Both bidding models can fulfil need for forward planning, reducing market costs and volatility. • The strategic model increases storage revenue, while the integrated model reduces market costs. • Testing is carried out using a high-fidelity model of Australia's NEM and historical data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Racism contributes to health inequities faced by people of colour and marginalised groups. Despite widespread recognition of the impacts of racism, mitigating strategies and legislation have been largely unsuccessful. Research into racism in healthcare has mostly examined personal experiences of healthcare workers and patients, assuming that the definitions of racism and race are similarly understood by all. However, ethnicity and race are often conflated, and racism seen as primarily interpersonal and ahistorical. This paper explores hospital employee understandings of racism, its impacts and how to reduce it. Forty-nine staff within one Australian hospital participated in individual qualitative interviews regarding the definition, impact, and ways of reducing racism. Interviews were analysed with a reflexive thematic analytic approach using a Postcolonial framework. Participants described racism as being experienced by marginalised groups of people in Australia. They identified that racism has detrimental effects on health and wellbeing. Not all were clear regarding what constituted racism: it was not described as an ideology created to justify colonial distribution of power and resources. Some thought that racism was individual prejudice while others noted it was also structural in nature. Participants commonly defined race as involving physical or cultural differences, suggesting that discredited historical and colonial concepts of race continue in Australian society. While many felt that education was the best way to reduce racism and its impacts, some participants noted that being educated did not necessarily change racist behaviour. The lack of accurate understanding of the concept of race and racism likely contributes to the relatively poor effect of current strategies to combat racism. As an initial part of deeper systemic anti-racist reform, this research supports calls for anti-racist education to clarify the definition of racism as an ideology. • Participants understood the detrimental impacts of racism in healthcare. • Participants showed unclear understandings of racism and its causes. • Anti-racist strategies must define race and racism, and acknowledge their history. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditional glass bottles are the wine industry's major source of carbon emissions. Those wishing to reduce the carbon footprint embedded in wine have been looking to alternative packaging, such as PET, aluminium cans, and bag-in-box (BIB) to mitigate the impact. However, these alternative formats pose challenges with consumer acceptance and knowledge of the eco-benefits of each format. This paper uses a discrete choice experiment and latent class analysis to investigate the possible effects of message content and style (abstract vs concrete) on wine purchase in the context of brand size, brand prestige, and pricing. The analysis reveals the presence of two customer segments, which highly emphasise the pack format. Of the four non-glass packs tested, BIB and flat glass lookalike PET bottles score the highest preference after glass bottles. Message content and appeal type score low in their ability to alter preferences, whilst mid-to-low prices increase the chances of alternative packaging to be chosen. • Packaging format is a key choice driver for wine. • Glass is still the most preferred packaging format. • Bag in Box and low-carbon alternatives that look most like glass have the most potential for uptake. • Message content and appeal have little impact on choice. • Alternative packaging is more likely to be chosen for mid-to-low-priced wines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The decreasing cost of solar photovoltaic (PV) and wind power technologies makes 100% renewable energy systems economically viable. Building more capacity to mitigate periods of low solar and wind supply results in systems that produce surplus energy at other times. As these surpluses vary across time and space, it becomes crucial to map their geographic distribution and quantify their magnitude. This paper presents the largest geographic and longest time series analysis of oversizing solar PV and wind in the context of the Australian National Electricity Market. We examine the additional solar, wind and battery capacity required to meet 100% of demand between 2010 and 2020. Without battery storage, this is achieved by generating approximately four times demand at an average production cost 28% lower than recent wholesale electricity prices. The addition of 1–8 h of storage reduces the average production cost by 55% compared to recent prices. Our analysis also investigates the spatiotemporal characteristics of surplus energy generation under different scenarios. We identify which regions are most suitable for the expansion of industrial, commercial, and business operations using surplus renewable generation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To effectively control and utilise large amounts of gas emissions from underground coal mining, Australia and many other countries rely heavily on a series of vertical boreholes to capture the gas during mining. This gas capture not only reduces the greenhouse gas impact but also recovers a significant amount of energy. Vacuum pumps are connected to surface boreholes to drive gas flow from the goaf and overlying fractured strata. However, applying high suction pressure to the boreholes may cause more oxygen to enter the goaf from the longwall working face. This influx of oxygen can potentially react with residual coal in the goaf, accelerating coal self-heating and possibly resulting in endogenous fires. By analysing extensive goaf gas drainage data collected from Australian longwalls, researchers have established the normal trend of goaf gas concentration and flow rate as a result of intensive goaf gas drainage. This paper further developed goaf gas flow CFD models with the operating vertical boreholes, which were then calibrated using field borehole production data under certain operating conditions. The CFD model simulated the distribution of O 2 and CH 4 as well as the gas flow pathways in the goaf, considering the complication of goaf gas drainage. This study found that the O 2 concentration is higher on the goaf tailgate side under the influence of tailgate side boreholes compared to the maingate side. Furthermore, for the well-compacted goaf, a significant proportion of the ventilation air travels through 'high permeability flow channels' provided by the goaf edge on tailgate side, and then circulates back into the goaf boreholes. These CFD modelling results not only enable ventilation engineers to visualize the goaf gas flow patterns under the impact of multiple operating boreholes, but also to understand the impact on goaf atmosphere through sensitivity analysis of natural goaf characteristics, such as goaf permeability distributions and gas emission rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Protocol for a study of quality improvement in Australian ECEC services. • A sequential three-phase mixed-methods design informed by ecological systems theory. • Research-industry partnerships with government authorities and early childhood researchers. • Scale and depth in sample identification, data selection and analytical techniques. International recognition of the early years as a crucial foundational period has led to the design and implementation of quality rating and improvement systems (QRIS) that define, communicate, and monitor the components of quality in early childhood education and care (ECEC). The aim of these policies is to achieve effective quality assurance and improvement through a system-oriented approach to assessment and evaluation. Informed by ecological systems theory, this paper outlines a three-phase, mixed-methods design for researching a national sample of child care centres that showed overall improvement on the Australian National Quality Standard (NQS) assessment and rating (A&R) criteria. The study samples are drawn from a national dataset of centre-based child care services with two or more A&R rounds and an initial rating of Working Towards NQS (N = 1,935). The results of this study will provide insights into the macro-, exo-, meso- and micro-systems level factors and strategies that support quality in ECEC services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Practice directions should recognise multiple models of CSE and a wider context of vulnerability and unmet needs. • Anxieties about young people's sexual behaviours can detract from CSE making it challenging to identify and respond. • Outreach and support that addresses young people's emotional, social and practical needs are valuable directions. • Suitable placements and ensuring young people have a safe and stable home environment is vital to any response to CSE. • CSE responses should be guided by child-centred practice and informed by young people's perspectives. There is a growing interest in understanding and responding to child sexual exploitation (CSE) in Australia, but limited empirical research from Australian contexts. The research reported here contributes to the evidence base by considering challenges and best practices for responding to CSE from the perspectives of 15 caseworkers in a statutory child protection and out of home care environment in one Australian region. In so doing, the paper also offers insight into CSE along with consideration of the emerging practice directions and systems surrounding these in the Australian context. Findings point to potential problems arising from existing frameworks for understanding and responding to CSE. Participants held concerns about a narrow focus on young people's sexualised behaviours in the wider multi-agency care context. This was understood to obscure a more complex understanding of CSE and its broader context of vulnerability and connection to unmet needs – some of which can arise from the care context itself – making identification and intervention difficult. Findings align with research that emphasises outreach and intensive support for young people centring on strengthening connections, identifying and addressing unmet needs and sustaining safety through consideration of placements and living circumstances. Consideration of practice challenges and opportunities signals the importance of child-centred, wellbeing-oriented directions allowing for multiple models of CSE victimisation, underpinned by a shared language in the multi-agency context and enhanced provision in existing systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2016, the Australian Government legislated to allow cannabis to be prescribed to patients as an unapproved medicine under the special access provisions of the Therapeutic Goods Act. This paper compares the Australian regulatory approach with other national approaches, outlines the main provisions of the Special Access Scheme for medical cannabis, describes how the program has evolved since 2017, includes an analysis of adverse events reported to the Therapeutic Goods Administration, and discusses the barriers that remain for patients who wish to access medical cannabis. It assesses how well the Australian program has addressed the challenges of providing patients with easier access to medical cannabis while ensuring that high-quality products are used safely and effectively under medical guidance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stormwater has been acknowledged as a major concern in cities because of mismanagement of this resource. It has also been underestimated as a resource in climate change actions and policies. Water sensitive urban design (WSUD) is considered as an effective adaptation measure to address these issues while providing many co-benefits. This paper reports the challenges of implementing WSUD in the Australian context. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 57 experts in Australia. The experts are involved in design, research, engineering, and planning policy in both public and private sectors. The qualitative analysis of the interviews involved thematic and content analysis through NVivo12. Analysis of the responses indicated six main challenges including financial, innovation and evaluation tools, capacity, institutional arrangements, and policy. The experts believe that a lack of standardized design and implementation can be addressed through collaborative design processes. They suggest a robust structure of approval process and establishing clarity of roles and responsibilities in all sectors. All respondents confirm the critical role of monitoring and maintenance in these projects. It is suggested that allocating recurrent funding for these ongoing activities from the beginning and setting incentives to engage communities and local councils in maintaining the projects can be helpful. • Provides insights in investigating the impact of social and organisational structure towards achieving WSCs. • Conducted qualitative analysis of interviews and survey questions. • Recommendations to advance stormwater management planning and design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A framework to evaluate stochastic rainfall models with a quantitative scale. • 'Good' modelled rainfall does not guarantee 'good' modelled streamflow. • Streamflow-based evaluation is more holistic than rainfall-based evaluation. • Component-wise evaluation can misrepresent ultimate model performance. Stochastic rainfall models are important tools for evaluating hydrological risks such as flooding and drought because of their ability to randomly generate alternative plausible climatic timeseries. The stochastic generation of climatic timeseries is not an end in itself, since they are typically applied to a catchment to determine the performance of water-related infrastructure systems, such as reservoirs or flood-control measures. This methodology typically involves a train of models to determine the end-of-system impact, yet the evaluation of stochastically generated rainfall timeseries is usually a stand-alone procedure focused on metrics directly related to the stochastic generator. This paper demonstrates discrepancies in this approach by evaluating two, daily-timestep, stochastic rainfall models in terms of rainfall metrics and their subsequently generated flow metrics after rainfall-runoff transformation. The two models are a Markov-based model and a latent-variable model, where each model is calibrated and evaluated showing 'overall good' performance. Stochastically generated timeseries, alongside observed rainfall timeseries are inputted to a calibrated catchment model (GR4J) to derive daily flow timeseries. Whereas the rainfall metrics typically showed 'good' performance, streamflow-based metrics are not necessarily 'good'. The procedure is repeated for 277 stations from Australia and 106 stations from the United States of America. Depending on the strictness of the flow-based comparison and region analysed, using the Markov-based model 12–26% of sites were classified as 'poor' performing, and 1%-9% of sites were classified as 'poor' using the latent-variable model. The results demonstrate that catchment-based performance of flow metrics is more holistic since it magnifies features of the rainfall not otherwise visible to rainfall-based evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• New measures are applied to evaluate fare equity before and after a fare policy reform. • The fare policy reform led to more equitable fares with diminishing spatial variations. • The impact is subject to travel frequency, residential location and applicable incentives. • A prototype dashboard can be established to map, measure and monitor fare equities. Smartcard-based public transit systems have been widely adopted across many cities around the world. These systems generate large volumes of transaction records from individual passenger trips and contain the requisite information that enable the mapping, measurement and monitoring of fare equity. In this paper, we propose and apply new measures to evaluate fare equity using smartcard data to map changes in fare equities following a fare policy reform across a major metropolitan region in Australia. Smartcard data is used to first reconstruct individual travel trajectories on which we compute our measures to explore two dimensions of equity: (1) 'horizontal' (for all passengers) versus 'vertical' (different types of passengers); and, (2) 'global' (across the entire transit network) versus 'local' (for a specific travel zone). Results reveal that in the first dimension the fare policy reform led to more equitable fares with the effect of diminishing spatial variations under the old policy for all types of transit passengers (adults, children, seniors and concession card holders); however, the impact of this fare policy reform reflected in the second dimension is subject to the number of zones travelled, residential location of passengers, the number of journeys made within the week and the applicable incentives. Finally, we draw on our empirical approach to report on a prototype dashboard through which public transit agencies have the capacity to map, measure and monitor how ridership translates to fare equities. More generally, we highlight the capacity of smartcard data, when embedded within our empirical framework, to better inform smarter policy around fare reforms in order to achieve greater equity across service populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper estimates the short-term reduction in money and time costs associated with a reduction in car and public transport commuting activity in the Greater Sydney Metropolitan Area (GSMA) during a period of the COVID-19 pandemic in which Australia started to see an easing of restrictions (see Beck and Hensher 2020a). As of late May 2020, three months after COVID-19 resulted in restrictions in Australia, we saw an annual travel time reduction for car and public transport commuters in the GSMA of $5.58 billion, representing a 54.02% reduction in the Pre-COVID-19 total time costs, much of which we would suggest can be associated with reductions in congestions costs. Adjusting further for reduced employment volumes relative to pre-COVID-19 levels, to take into account reduced commuting activity due, in part, to a lower volume of work associated with a loss of employment or lower employment hours, the annual time cost reduction for all commuters who still have regular pre-COVID-19 levels of employment are estimated as $4.4 billion. Hence there is $1.17 billion worth of reduced time costs associated with significantly reduced employment hours, including a loss of employment. The implications for road investment linked to congestion in particular is profound, and shows how much of an increase in benefit to society, through congestion busting, can be obtained by more flexible work arrangements, even allowing for some switching into car out of public transport. Whether the current decrease in travel costs will be long-lasting is unknown, but it does support the appeal of working from home, if it is sustainable, as a policy lever to reduce levels of congestion on the roads and crowding in public transport. • Estimates the short-term reduction in money and time costs associated with commuting activity during a period of the COVID-19 pandemic. • Annual travel time reduction for all car and PT commuters of $5.58 billion, a 54.02% reduction in the Pre-COVID-19 total time costs. • The implications for road investment linked to congestion in particular is profound. • Shows how much of an increase in benefit to society, through congestion busting, can be obtained by more flexible work arrangements. • Support the appeal of working from home as a policy lever to reduce levels of congestion on the roads and crowding in public transport. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines how Australian academic librarians perceive effective Web 2.0 tools used to market library services and resources and the factors influencing perceptions of the Web 2.0 tools used. An online survey was sent to 400 academic librarians in 37 Australian universities. The response rate was 57.5%. The qualitative data were analysed using content analysis. The collected quantitative and qualitative data were analysed using descriptive (frequencies, percentages, means, standard deviations) and inferential statistics (ordinal regressions). The key findings show that demographics, human capital and library variables play an important and significant role in predicting librarians' perceptions of effective Web 2.0 tools used to market services and resources. This paper provides a better understanding of academic librarians' attitudes, views as well as effective Web 2.0 tools used to market their services and resources. Librarians can use the results to reflect on the effectiveness of the Web 2.0 tools used, to balance the weight of the factors' influences and to better understand various effective Web 2.0 tools to enable them to market academic library services and resources more effectively in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solar thermal technology to supply process heat in different industrial sectors has become very promising in recent years. Industries can reduce their consumption of fossil fuels by replacing them with solar process heat with non-conventional system integration and using clean energy. In this paper, a systematic review of 10 countries is presented which demonstrated extensive use of solar industrial process heating systems in their manufacturing sectors. This country-wise analysis is then used to compare with current Australian scenario and identify future prospects of integrating solar process heating in Australian industrial sectors. The choice of countries is based on a database where promising industrial sectors and solar process heating applications are currently using incident solar energy. These are analyzed for their potential of integration to developing solar heat in industrial processes (SHIP) and a number of potential industrial sectors that have the highest potential like Motor vehicles, Textiles, Printing, Wood, Paper, Fabricated metal, Rubber and plastics, chemicals, Food, beverages, electrical equipment, machinery, and equipment are being identified. An overview of available studies is discussed in this paper focused on specific countries and the industrial heat demand of existing operational plants. Future trends due to solar energy potential are also outlined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Public spaces are the loci of complex interactions among multiple stakeholders whose decisions and activities affect places' qualities. The paper builds upon governance theory to provide a holistic in-depth approach in understanding the complexity and quality of the place-shaping processes in public spaces. In the absence of adequate conception of governance in urban design and public spaces, the paper introduces a framework for analysing governance capacity of public spaces and applies the framework to a flagship but highly contested public space in Brisbane, Australia namely South Bank Parklands. The proposed framework encompasses four major components of 1) actors and stakeholders, 2) governance structure, 3) governing tools, and 4) governing tasks. The framework puts special emphasis on the contextual factors, the way public spaces are shaped and governed, and political economy of the space. The case study application showcases the applicability of the PSGF which helps holistically analyse the trends in public space governance structure accounting for the diversity and complexity of all elements involved. The findings reveal that South Bank Parklands governance is mix-structured, hierarchical, and highly political. It is, however, a likeable public space for which civic engagement in the decision-making processes is notably limited. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper profiles Australian universities’ website communications about sustainability initiatives, especially relating to Talloires Declaration signification and the ten recommended actions. The research involves a content study of Talloires signatories’ websites and their semiotic and signaling theory aspects across time. The source is publicly available information (time period 2014 and 2015 respectively) in context with education for sustainable development (ESD) in society and the transaction model in communication theory. It is found that some of the signatory universities in Australia exemplify a few of the Talloires ten agreed actions in their public communications, but each point is not emphasised with equal priority. The variance may be due to divergent underlying objectives; such as public communication of Talloires toward genuine benefit for the environment, or to create a strategic positioning tool to signal the university as an environmental champion within the broader society. Focusing upon secondary data from signatory university websites in Australia, the paper provides a study of higher education signification of Talloires. It assists the initial understanding of signaling theory in the public communication transactions that promote Talloires action and implementation. The findings encourage further studies of related communication issues in universities in other countries. The paper also deepens local and global understanding of perceptions of sustainability and contributes to the body of comparative literature of sustainability in higher education as a development component of strategic management of ESD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a random forest classification approach for identifying and mapping three types of lowland native grassland communities found in the Tasmanian Midlands region. Due to the high conservation priority assigned to these communities, there has been an increasing need to identify appropriate datasets that can be used to derive accurate and frequently updateable maps of community extent. Therefore, this paper proposes a method employing repeat classification and statistical significance testing as a means of identifying the most appropriate dataset for mapping these communities. Two datasets were acquired and analysed; a Landsat ETM+ scene, and a WorldView-2 scene, both from 2010. Training and validation data were randomly subset using a k- fold ( k = 50) approach from a pre-existing field dataset. Poa labillardierei, Themeda triandra and lowland native grassland complex communities were identified in addition to dry woodland and agriculture. For each subset of randomly allocated points, a random forest model was trained based on each dataset, and then used to classify the corresponding imagery. Validation was performed using the reciprocal points from the independent subset that had not been used to train the model. Final training and classification accuracies were reported as per class means for each satellite dataset. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was undertaken to determine whether classification accuracy differed between the two datasets, as well as between classifications. Results showed mean class accuracies between 54% and 87%. Class accuracy only differed significantly between datasets for the dry woodland and Themeda grassland classes, with the WorldView-2 dataset showing higher mean classification accuracies. The results of this study indicate that remote sensing is a viable method for the identification of lowland native grassland communities in the Tasmanian Midlands, and that repeat classification and statistical significant testing can be used to identify optimal datasets for vegetation community mapping. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forensic science is increasingly used to help exonerate the innocent and establishing links between individuals and criminal activities. With increased reliance on scientific services provided by multi-disciplinary (police, medicine, law, forensic science), and multi-organisational in the private and government sectors (health, justice, legal, police) practitioners, the potential for miscommunication resulting unjust outcomes increases. The importance of identifying effective multi-organisational information sharing is to prevent the 'justice silo effect'; where practitioners from different organisations operate in isolation with minimal or no interaction. This paper presents the findings from the second part of the Interfaces Project, an Australia-wide study designed to assess the extent of the justice silos. We interviewed 121 police, forensic scientists, lawyers, judges, coroners, pathologists and forensic physicians. The first paper published in 2013 presented two key findings: first investigative meetings were rare in adult sexual assault cases; second many medical practitioners were semi-invisible in case decision-making with this low level of visibility being due to lawyers, forensic scientists or police not being aware of the role/expertise medical practitioners offer. These findings led to the development of a flowchart model for adult sexual assault that highlights the range of agencies and practitioners typically involved in sexual assault. The rationale for the flowchart is to produce a visual representation of a typical sexual assault investigative process highlighting where and who plays a role in order to minimise the risk of justice silos. This is the second paper in a series of two. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Australians are one of the world’s highest per capita emitters of greenhouse gases, yet the country’s target for emissions reductions by 2030 remains modest. This paper looks at policy options for Australian cities to deliver faster emissions reductions than the national commitment level. The main focus is on an accelerated reduction in emissions from urban road transport, through technological improvements and behaviour changes. Targets are proposed for improved emissions intensities, to bring Australia much closer to US and EU performance expectations. A range of behaviour change measures is then tested on Melbourne and Sydney, the Sydney analysis using MetroScan-TI, an integrated evaluation framework, to explore how behaviour changes might enhance emissions outcomes. The potential contribution of public transport is a particular focus. The paper concludes that, with sufficient political will, Australia could reduce its 2030 road transport emissions to 40% below 2005 levels. This is a much larger reduction than the current 26–28% Australian target but is more consistent with longer term pathways to acceptable carbon budgets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a comprehensive substance flow analysis (SFA) of phosphorus (P) for a six-year period (2008–13) in Gippsland, a key agricultural region of Australia with high economic and environmental significance. The analysis has revealed that around 71% (10,904 t) of the mean annual total inflow of P was stored in this region. This finding is different from other published regional scale SFAs, where more than 50% of the P in annual total inflow eventually left the region. Per capita P inflow in Gippsland is also found substantially higher compared to available SFAs. In Gippsland, the annual inflow of P primarily occurred as commercial fertilizer (66% or 10,263 t) and livestock feed (29% or 4443 t), and the outflow mainly occurred as livestock products (94% or 4181 t); while the majority (66% or 7218 t) of the P storage occurred in soils of the livestock farming area. A comparative analysis of the magnitude of P flow in different subsystems indicates that more than 80% of the annual total inflow, outflow, and storage of P in this region is associated with the livestock (mainly dairy and meat cattle) farming subsystem. For the Gippsland region as a whole and almost all subsystems, significant annual variations in the magnitudes of P inflow, outflow, storage and internal flow have been observed. Between 2008 and 2013, both the annual total inflow (mainly as commercial fertilizer) and the annual total storage (mainly in soils) of P in this region showed a substantial decrease (41% and 54% of the 2008 level, respectively), while the annual total outflow (mainly as livestock and crop products) remained nearly the same, indicating an improvement towards sustainable P management. Despite such a positive sign, there is still adequate room for improvement. This analysis indicates that over the study period, about 65,424 t P were accumulated (mainly as soil storage) that is approximately six times the mean annual P inflow as commercial fertilizer in this region; while approximately 3241 t P lost as soil erosion and runoff, indicating substantial adverse economic and environmental implications. Based on the findings of the current analysis, this paper outlines a wide range of policy and management interventions to reduce the downstream loss of P and other nutrients as well as the region's dependency on imported commercial fertilizers and grain based feed. This paper also presents new criteria for data quality analysis and a set of P concentration data of various materials that could be readily utilized in future SFAs of P at any geographical scale. This paper suggests that considering the inter-annual variations in P flow as assessed in this SFA, future research should focus on identifying the influence of socio-environmental, technological and political factors on the magnitude P flow in Gippsland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Australia, heatwaves are the deadliest natural hazard and a major driver of peak electricity demand. The disproportionately high peak demand increases electricity prices, causes occasional blackouts and exacerbates energy poverty, all of which limit one’s ability to use air conditioning. Meanwhile, increased energy efficiency of dwellings may decrease their heat stress resistance. This paper challenges whether the current Australian Nationwide Energy Rating Scheme encourages heat stress resistance. Cooling consumption, peak cooling demand and the risk of indoor overheating were assessed for a typical single-storey home in Adelaide and Sydney. Design options between 6 and 8 stars, plus two traditional, energy-inefficient homes were simulated with the AccuRate energy simulation program. This paper demonstrates that the NatHERS does not directly encourage heat stress resistance in new homes and can even deliver buildings with worse heat resistance and increased reliance on air conditioning than traditional, energy-inefficient buildings. This overreliance on air conditioning can present a public health hazard, consequently, the integration of heat stress resistance in the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme is recommended. Recommendations for the analysis and assessment of heat stress resistance are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Housing affordability is traditionally measured using the percentage of household income spent on housing. An important cost that is usually overlooked in measuring location affordability is the transportation or accessibility costs. In this paper, we present a modeling approach, driven by urban open data, to measure location affordability that incorporates both housing and transportation costs. We apply the developed model to assess housing affordability in Melbourne, Australia as a case study. Results suggest that neighbourhoods that appear to be affordable when only housing cost is considered are not necessarily affordable when transportation costs are taken into account. A negative correlation between housing affordability and transportation affordability is observed. We also identify the presence of a strong spatial clustering pattern in the affordability measure across the study area. A major methodological contribution of the paper is the inclusion of comprehensive private vehicle costs and public transportation expenses in the model that contributes to a more robust estimation and understanding of location affordability. The model also distinguishes between different trip purposes. Results suggest that plans and policies to improve housing affordability should be made in coordination with transportation infrastructure investment plans to ensure effective and equitable outcomes. Nevertheless, the focus of the paper is more on the measurement of affordability; rather than reviewing and recommending housing related policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recycled concrete waste in the form of recycled concrete aggregate (RCA) is presently used mostly as a road base filler in Australia. However, instead of producing natural aggregate (NA) to manufacture natural aggregate concrete (NAC) to use in structural concrete, there is potential to use RCA to manufacture recycled aggregate concrete (RAC). While the material performance of RAC compared to NAC is analysed in the existing literature, it is not evident whether the use of RCA in structural concrete results in financial and environmental benefits. Previous literature analysing these aspects mostly focuses on a single area of investigation. This paper presents an integrated methodology for the assessment of the use of RCA replacing NA in structural concrete, considering technical, financial, environmental and social perspectives. Cost-benefit assessment (CBA) has been used to evaluate the internalised impacts as well as external costs concerning the use of both RAC and NAC. The scope of each discipline-focused assessment is presented demarcating the relevant scope for further study, and the specific tools and methodologies to be adopted are specified. Finally, amalgamating the different discipline-focused assessments, a unique approach for comparing a sustainable, alternative raw material for concrete, is presented in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Harmful Sexual Behavior and Child Sexual Exploitation are problems of significant proportion for children & young people living in out-of-home care. The aim of this review was to conduct a scoping exercise of the evidence about preventing these problems with the intent of summarising and disseminating knowledge to policy-makers, practitioners and researchers. Five electronic databases were searched in November and December 2016, including: PscyhINFO; Applied Social Science Index and Abstracts; SocINDEX; Web of Science; and Education Resource Information Centre. The search was guided by the research question: What is known about preventing Harmful Sexual Behavior and Child Sexual Exploitation for children & young people living in residential out-of-home care settings? Twenty papers were included in the review, including: seven peer-reviewed journal articles; three reports for government; two presentation transcripts; two literature reviews; one qualitative research report; one report for a government inquiry; one submission to a government inquiry; one consultation paper for a government inquiry; one guideline; and one educational resource. Three major thematic categories were identified in the evidence: (i) constructing educative interventions for children & young people and workers ; (ii) targeting grooming and problematic sexual behavior ; and (iii) providing a holistic response and a way out . The review revealed that the current prevention response to Harmful Sexual Behavior and Child Sexual Exploitation for children & young people living in residential care is under-developed. Promising program, service or practice elements relating to the prevention of Harmful Sexual Behavior and Child Sexual Exploitation were identified and three interventions suggested for future prevention efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hydrogen industry in Australia has gained tremendous momentum in 2018 and after the publishing of the National Hydrogen Roadmap. In this study, a comprehensive review of the recent history of hydrogen-related activities and publications, as well as hydrogen funding programs and the funded projects, was conducted. Most of these activities were tabulated and discussed from the perspective of sorting, documentation, and contrast. The broad picture indicates the need and necessity of a unified national database for the hydrogen industry landscape. An innovative modular online (web-based) crowdsourced database platform is introduced in this paper as the "Australia Hydrogen Industry Knowledge-Sharing Platform" to include all hydrogen-related activities in Australia. This web-based platform will be presented in the form of a business to generate revenue to offset operation and maintenance costs and ensure the system updating. This study will not only guide the Australian governments and/or stakeholders to develop a hydrogen economy for the future but also other countries to promote their hydrogen industry. Image 1 • Australia hydrogen industry landscape are reviewed. • Hydrogen industry evolution in Australia is time lined, documented and discussed. • Hydrogen industry knowledge-sharing platform necessity is flagged. • An innovative hydrogen web-based crowed-sourced model is proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Minimally adequate treatment (MAT) is intended to represent treatment minimally sufficient for common mental health problems. For children, MAT has been defined over a twelve-month period as either eight or more mental health visits, or four to seven visits plus relevant medication. MAT is used to identify those missing out on adequate care, but it is unknown whether MAT improves children's outcomes.Methods: This paper examines whether MAT is associated with improved outcomes for children. It uses survey data from the nationally representative Longitudinal Study of Australian children on 596 children with mental health problems based on the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire at ages 8-15 years, linked to health service administrative data from 2012 to 2016. Statistical analysis examines the association of MAT with later quality of life (Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory), using a lagged dependent variable model to account for time-varying unobserved confounding.Results: Compared to children with lower levels of treatment, those who received MAT between baseline and follow up had no statistically significant improvement in either quality of life or mental health symptoms.Limitations: The observational data provide insight into real-world practice but require statistical methods to account for selection into treatment.Conclusions: While clinical trials show mental health treatments can be efficacious, this study shows no evidence that children receiving MAT in routine practice have better outcomes. These findings demonstrate the need for better understanding of the nature and impact of children's mental health care as it is delivered and received in routine practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programs are effective in reducing cardiovascular mortality and readmissions. However, most patients are denied the benefits of CR due to low referral rates. Of those patients referred, commencement rates vary from 28.4% to 60%. This paper quantifies the scale of health loss in Australia due to poor engagement with the program, and estimates how much public funding can be justifiably reallocated to address the problem. Economic decision modelling was undertaken to estimate the expected lifetime health loss and costs to Medicare. Key parameters were derived from Australian databases, CR registries and meta-analyses. Population health gains associated with uptake rates of 60%, and 85% were calculated. CR was associated with a 99.9% probability of being cost-effective, even at a cost-effectiveness threshold lower than conventionally applied. Importantly, an average of 0.52 years of life expectancy are lost due to national uptake being below 60% achieved in some best performing programs in Australia, equivalent to 0.28 quality adjusted life years. The analysis indicates that $12.9 million/year could be justifiably reallocated from public funds to achieve a national uptake rate of 60%, while maintaining cost-effectiveness of CR due to the large health gains that would be expected. CR is a cost-effective service for patients with coronary heart disease. In Australia, less than a third of patients commence CR, potentially resulting in avoidable patient harm. Additional investment in CR is vital and should be a national priority as the health gains for patients far outweigh the costs. • Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is effective in reducing mortality and readmissions. • Most patients are denied the benefits of CR due to low referral rates. • In this economic analysis, CR was cost-effective with a mean ICER of $6096/QALY. • Patients in CR programs experience greater health benefits over a lifetime. • 60% uptake of CR will lower readmissions by 823 events and 536 deaths over 10 years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When 2020 began, we had no idea what was to unfold globally as we learnt about the Novel-Coronavirus in Wuhan, in the Hubei province of China. As this virus spread rapidly, it became a matter of time before many countries began to implement measures to try and contain the spread of the disease. COVID-19 as it is referred to, resulted in two main approaches to fighting the viral pandemic, either through a progressive set of measures to slow down the number of identified cases designed to 'flatten the curve' over time (anticipated to be at least six months), or to attack it by the severest of measures including a total lock-down and/or herding exposure to fast track 'immunisation' while we await a vaccine. The paper reports the findings from the first phase of an ongoing survey designed to identify the changing patterns in travel activity of Australian residents as a result of the stage 2 restrictions imposed by the Australian government. The main restrictions, in addition to social distancing of at least 1.5 m, are closure of entry to Australia (except residents returning), and closure of non-essential venues such as night clubs, restaurants, mass attendee sporting events, churches, weddings, and all social gatherings in any circumstance. With some employers encouraging working from home and others requiring it, in addition to job losses, and many children attending school online from home, the implications on travel activity is extreme. We identify the initial impacts associated with the first month of stricter social distancing measures introduced in Australia. • General support for the actions of government and business. • Widespread suppression of travel demand for all trip purposes across all modes. • Sizeable shift to working from home by those who can. • Public transport will face the largest hurdles in regaining confidence. • Retail and food logistics will need to examine distribution processes • The aviation sector will likely need to restart with a heavy focus on domestic travel. • Public transport will need to take overt measures to restore confidence. • The dominance of the car is further enforced in the context of biosecurity concerns. • Active transport is a viable option for short inner-city trips. • Infrastructure investment should be carefully considered. • Flexible working arrangements are perhaps the biggest policy lever available to governments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The accurate prediction of power load is helpful to make reasonable power generation plans and scientific dispatching schemes and achieve the goal of energy saving and emission reduction. There are many factors influencing the power load, and there may be a nonlinear relationship between the power load and these influencing factors. A new fractional multivariate grey Bernoulli model, referred to as MFGBM (q, r, N), is developed in this article for the short-term prediction of power load. The fractional differential equation and fractional accumulation generation are integrated into MFGBM (q, r, N). Second, this paper improves the grey wolf algorithm to better optimize many parameters in the model. The algorithm is improved by using a chaotic Tent map to optimize the initial population composition, adding inertia weights to change the position vector of the grey wolf, and introducing a nonlinear function and Lévy flight to enhance local exploitation and global exploration ability. Finally, this paper selects the daytime and nighttime power loads in Australia and takes the electricity price, humidity, and temperature as the influencing factors to validate the prediction capability of MFGBM (q, r, N). Our findings indicate that MFGBM (q, r, N) is highly applicable to short-term power system prediction. • The multivariate grey Bernoulli model is proposed to predict short-term power load. • The improved grey wolf algorithm is proposed to avoid falling into local optimum. • 3. The non-singular Caputo fractional derivative and Laplace transform are introduced. • The fractional-order operator is introduced to reduce the influence of randomness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Towards decarbonizing the global economy, hydrogen produced through water electrolysis is expected to be one of the key solutions for variable renewable energy storage and sector coupling, in particular, via the transport sector in the next few decades. Even though water is an important aspect of the environmental impact, the impact assessment of hydrogen production on water is lacking. This paper proposes a comprehensive methodology for assessing the water footprints of hydrogen production from electrolysis. A major innovative aspect is to demonstrate the geographical distribution of the footprints along the supply chain. The water footprints for hydrogen produced from grid electricity, wind and solar power in Australia was analysed as a case study. Sensitivity analysis was used to evaluate the influence of key parameters including Solar Radiation Level, Silicon Efficiency, and Lifetime of PV Modules. The study finds that the water consumption footprint is much less than that reported in the literature and large part of the water could be consumed indirectly outside of hydrogen producing countries. The quantity of water footprint varies significantly among different assumptions. The findings provide insights into both domestic and cross-boundary water impacts of hydrogen electrolysis and can thus inform policy debates in each nation and beyond. • Water consumption and scarcity footprint of hydrogen production through water electrolysis is quantified. • The water scarcity footprint of hydrogen is 3,000 times less than the quantity reported in the literature. • Water consumption for Australia's highest hydrogen export in 2040 will only be 2% of the national total. • Water consumption from solar PV to hydrogen can vary from 22 to 126 L per kg of hydrogen. • Australia's hydrogen production from solar PV consumes more water in China than in Australia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and diabetes are two of the most important public health problems. Outcomes for patients with these disorders vary considerably, likely due to the added influence of a range of interacting clinical, metabolic, environmental, lifestyle, genetic and psychosocial risk factors associated with these diseases. The Baker Biobank study was designed to characterise these factors to inform better risk prediction, earlier diagnosis and better treatment of CVDs and diabetes.Methods: This paper describes the detailed methods for the establishment of the Baker Biobank. The study collected extensive phenotypic detail about the participants recruited from Victoria, Australia. Data and samples were collected at the Departments of Cardiology and Respiratory Medicine at the Alfred Hospital and Healthy Hearts Program at the Baker Institute.Results: A total of 6,530 adults with age 18-69 years were recruited into the Biobank. The majority of these participants (63%) were male. The mean (standard deviation [SD]) age of the Biobank Cohort at the time of data collection was 57(15) years. The study collected data on socio-demographic characteristics, behavioural and lifestyle factors, anthropometric measurements, medical and medication history, and blood levels of various biomarkers. The study also collected and stored Guthrie cards, serum, plasma, buffy coat, whole blood collected in Tempus tubes (for RNA extraction). For some samples extracted DNA and RNA is stored. The Biobank data is also linked to echocardiogram, hospital admission, pathology and mortality datasets. The Baker Biobank data and samples are available for health researchers with approval of Biobank Steering Group and Human Research Ethics Committee.Conclusion: The Baker Biobank provides valuable data and samples into the study of the interplay among cardiovascular diseases risk factors and their impact on morbidity and mortality in Australia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We will monitor compliance with the intervention and adverse events. • Data will be analyzed following intention-to-treat principles. • A cost-effectiveness analysis will be performed. This a priori statistical analysis plan describes the methods of analysis for the Trial Of Prevention Strategies for low back pain (TOPS). TOPS aimed to investigate the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of exercise and education classes compared with a minimal intervention control in preventing recurrence of low back pain (LBP) in people who have recently recovered from an episode of LBP. TOPS is a superiority, pragmatic, parallel-group randomized controlled trial with allocation concealment, blinded outcome assessors, and intention-to-treat analysis. Participants were randomized to a physical therapist-led exercise and education program for 12 weeks or minimal intervention. The primary outcome was days to recurrence of an episode of LBP. The three key secondary outcomes were days to recurrence of an episode of LBP resulting in (1) activity limitation, (2) care seeking for LBP; and (3) work absence of at least 1 day. Differences in survival curves for the primary (days to recurrence) and secondary outcome (days to LBP with activity limitation, days to care seeking due to LBP, and days to work absence due to LBP) will be compared using Cox regression. Hazard ratios (HRs) and median survival times with 95% confidence intervals (CI) will be calculated. The number of adverse events, including serious adverse events will be reported and the proportion of adverse events between groups will be compared using a Chi-squared test. This paper will provide a detailed description of the planned analyses for the TOPS trial. Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12615000939594). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To meet the future energy demand and avert any looming crises, efforts are being carried out to utilize sustainable and renewable energy resources. In this paper, the naturally occurring non-linearity and non-stationarity deficiencies within the climatological predictors to forecast solar radiation (Rdn) are resolved via a multivariate empirical mode decomposition method (MEMD). First, a set of antecedent weekly lags at timescale (t -1) of input datasets were collated and then were divided into training and testing subsets. The MEMD method is restricted to dissolve the training and testing climatic data independently into intrinsic modes functions (IMFs). As the numbers of total IMFs were very large, the singular value decomposition (SVD) algorithm is accustomed for dimensionality reduction simultaneously capturing the most relevant oscillatory features embedded within the IMFs. Finally, the random forest (RF) model is applied to forecast Rdn at selected solar-rich regions in Australia. The resulting hybrid MEMD-SVD-RF model was established as a consequence of the aforementioned modelling strategy. The results are benchmarked with other comparative models. The hybrid MEMD-SVD-RF model generates better and reliable forecasts having significant implications for renewable and sustainable energy applications and resources management. • A double decomposition based solar radiation forecasting model incorporating climate drivers. • Multivariate decomposition splits climate drivers into intrinsic mode functions (IMF). • Singular value decomposition reduces dimensionality to pertinent features from a pool of IMFs. • Random Forest (RF) algorithm used to design newly integrative hybrid model. • Hybrid model provides significant energy management implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The availability and implementation of evidence-based care is essential to achieving safe, quality trauma patient outcomes. Little is documented, however, about the challenges trauma clinicians face in their day-to day practice, or their views on the availability of evidence. This paper presents the most significant clinical practice challenges reported by multidisciplinary trauma care professionals in Australia and New Zealand, in particular those that may be resolved with focussed research or enhanced implementation activity.Methods: An exploratory survey of trauma professionals from relevant Australia and New Zealand professional organisations was conducted between September 2018 and February 2019 using the Snowballing Method. Participants were recruited via a non-random sampling technique to complete an online survey. Thematic analyses were conducted.Results: There were nine significant clinical practice challenge themes in trauma care, arising from 287 individual clinical practice challenges reported. The most reported being clinical management (bleeding, spinal, older patients) and operationalisation of the trauma system. There was no consensus as to the availability of evidence to guide each theme.Conclusion: Future research should seek to address the clinical practice challenge of Australian and New Zealand trauma community to enable safe, quality trauma patient outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An accurate predictive model is essential for monitoring the energy produced by a solar system based on different meteorological parameters. In the present paper, a novel machine-learning model named DNN-RODDPSO is proposed to improve the real-time prediction accuracy of the hourly energy produced by four dual-axis solar trackers. This model integrates a new deep neural network (DNN) model with a recent variant of PSO algorithm referred to as a randomly occurring distributed delayed particle swarm optimization (RODDPSO) algorithm. This algorithm is adopted to enhance the training process of the DNN model by reducing the risk of being trapped into local optima and for the search space diversification. Furthermore, to develop the DNN-RODDPSO model, the hourly observations of seven meteorological parameters including time variable measured during 2014–2015 in Alice Springs city, Australia, are used. This model integrates two novel hidden layers, the first one is a selective layer based on daytime/nighttime data selection. The second one named automatic inputs relevance determination to point out the most relevant inputs for an accurate prediction. The obtained results demonstrate the high performance of the two novel hidden layers and the RODDPSO algorithm to improve significantly the prediction accuracy compared to the actual literature standards. • A novel hybrid ANN based on RODDPSO algorithm is developed. • A novel selective layer based on daytime/nighttime data selection is introduced. • A novel automatic inputs relevance determination layer is proposed and validated. • The energy potential produced by four solar trackers is monitored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We work on multiple wild animals detection and pose estimation. • We constructed a large wild animal surveillance dataset. • We proposed a ratio based data distillation framework. Monitoring wildlife populations and activities have significance for biology and ecology. With the rapid development of computer vision and deep learning techniques, it is possible to employ state-of-the-art convoluntional neural network (CNN) based detectors to process the big data from field surveillance cameras and assist in the following studies. However, data labelling during the training stage is a very time-consuming, labour intensive and expensive task. In this paper, we detect multiple animals (Kangaroo, emu, dingo, bird and wildcat) in the wild in an Omni-supervised learning setting. The unlabeled data from the surveillance cameras will be filtered and used for training via data distillation approach. Moreover, we also perform joint pose estimation and detection for Kangaroo which has the most samples in the dataset. To study the feasibility, we also built a large full high definition (HD) wild animal surveillance image dataset from collected data from several national parks across the State of Queensland in Australia and this dataset will be made publicly available. Extensive experiments show that the detection and pose estimation results can be further improved by using unlabeled data wisely. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Government schools have lower HPV vaccination coverage compared to other schools. • Absenteeism, consent, language barriers and low literacy are barriers to uptake. • Process improvements with a focus on low coverage schools can address barriers. Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination is offered in Australia through school-based programs. While HPV vaccination coverage is high, coverage of the full course of vaccination is suboptimal in Australia and there is a drop in coverage between the first and third doses. This study aimed to describe the drivers of low HPV vaccination coverage in Western Australian (WA) schools and barriers and enablers to improving vaccine coverage. This paper focusses on process and system-level factors. This was a mixed methods study. We analysed WA vaccination coverage data by school, undertook an online survey targeting the individuals responsible for the HPV vaccination program in their schools and school nurses, and compared survey findings and HPV vaccine dose three coverage in schools with 50 or more students in the eligible cohort. We also conducted focus groups with students and interviews with parents in schools with low HPV vaccine coverage. Schools with low HPV vaccine coverage had low coverage for the first dose of HPV vaccine as well as a higher drop off between first and third doses compared to schools with higher HPV vaccine coverage. Respondents from low and middle HPV vaccine coverage schools reported more issues with return of consent forms, low parental literacy, language barriers, absenteeism and difficulty contacting parents compared to schools with high coverage. Parents and students raised a number of challenges in relation to HPV vaccination including student absenteeism, language barriers, and issues with the return of consent forms. A multifaceted approach to improving HPV vaccination coverage should be targeted at schools with low coverage. Based on our findings, these actions should include a range of approaches to obtaining parental consent and intensive follow up with students who are absent on vaccination days. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the impact of three fiscal policy shocks on per capita real GDP and income inequality in Australia during the period 1965–2014. A small structural vector autoregressive (SVAR) model is constructed for an open economy for contemporaneous identification and estimation purposes. Based on the evidence of one cointegrating vector among the variables, a structural vector error correction (SVEC) model is specified for the long run. Direct taxation, indirect taxation receipts and government spending are identified as permanent fiscal policy shocks. The convergent use of two different models (SVAR & SVEC) strengthens the credibility of the results. The results have three key policy implications. First, a reduction in direct taxation receipts increases per capita real GDP without increasing income inequality. Second, a reduction in government expenditure significantly increases income inequality. Third, the adverse effect of indirect taxation receipts on income inequality is greater than the redistributive effect of government expenditure, which questions the widely held fiscal policy strategy of using indirect taxation to finance redistributive expenditure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Maternal mental health problems contributes significantly to perinatal morbidities and extend beyond the perinatal period for some women. Drawing data from a population-based study this paper aimed to: 1) identify patterns of maternal psychological distress spanning ten years following the birth of a baby, and 2) identify psychosocial risk factors in the first postnatal year for trajectories of elevated psychological distress.Methodology: A secondary analysis was conducted using data from 4875 mothers participating in the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children. The Kessler-6 assessed maternal psychological distress symptoms when the child was 0-12 months, 2-3 years, 4-5 years, 6-7 years, 8-9 years and 10-11 years. Longitudinal latent class analyses (LCA) was conducted to identify patterns of psychological distress. Latent class membership was assigned and used in subsequent regression analyses to identify predictors of each trajectory.Results: LCA identified five distinct trajectories of maternal psychological distress symptoms over time. Predictors of trajectories with elevated symptoms reflected a pattern of social and economic disadvantage and psychosocial stress. The strongest predictors of elevated mental health symptoms were a history of depression [OR: 7.57(4.73-12.11)] and 3 or more stressful life events in the past year [OR: 3.38(2.02-5.65)].Limitations: The assessment of maternal mental health and child health was based on brief self-report measures and mothers from lower socioeconomic and diverse cultural backgrounds were underrepresented.Conclusions: These findings underscore the importance of early diagnosis and treatment of women at risk of mental health problems in the postnatal period and early years of parenting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Switching antidepressant medications is recommended when an initial antidepressant is not effective, when it is unable to be tolerated or when there are significant drug interactions. The aim of this paper is to review the evidence regarding when to switch antidepressants and the optimal approach to switching.Methods: Clinical and academic experts in mood disorders from Australia and New Zealand (Treatment Algorithm Group, TAG) met to discuss the key considerations regarding switching antidepressants in the treatment of depression and formulate recommendations about switching strategies.Results: While switching is recommended, there is limited data to guide on how best to approach switching antidepressants (e.g. whether to switch within class or out of class), and how to define the best time to consider switching. Broadly, switching within class after non-response is recommended for mild-moderate depression and out-of-class for patients with a more severe depression or melancholia.Limitations: There is a limited evidence-base to draw on to make definitive recommendations on switching approaches.Conclusions: Switching antidepressants is an appropriate strategy to use if there is a minimal response to an initial antidepressant. Further research is required to determine the optimal switching approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]