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Purpose: To investigate Australian age stratified nationwide trends in vitreoretinal procedures., Methods: Nationwide retrospective analysis of vitreoretinal procedures in Australia over 2001-2019 using Australian National Hospital Morbidity Database for public and private hospitals. Age and gender-specific trends in selected procedures including pars plana vitrectomy for retinal detachment (PPV for RD), scleral buckle, intravitreal injections, and PPV unrelated to RD were analysed using negative binomial regression., Results: Total included procedures increased from 8102 in 2001 to 136430 in 2019. Between 2001 and 2019, the incidence per 100,000 persons of PPV for RD increased from 7.5 to 20.7, whilst scleral buckling decreased from 10.5 to 4.0. Similarly, the incidence per 100,000 persons of PPV unrelated to RD increased from 18.4 to 67.1, and intravitreal injections increased from 5.6 to 446.0. The rate of scleral buckling decreased by 6% annually (p < .001), most pronounced in those 40 years and above. In contrast, PPV for RD increased by 5% annually (p < .001), also most pronounced in those aged 40 and above. PPV unrelated to RD increased by 7% annually (p < .001), and intravitreal injections increased by 21.0% annually (p < .001)., Conclusion: Between 2001 and 2019, the rate of scleral buckling declined compared to an increase in PPV for RD. Our analysis suggests an increasing trend to PPV over scleral buckling for RD repair in Australia over the last two decades. Additionally, rates of PPV unrelated to RD and intravitreal injections increased across all age groups. Overall, these trends mirror those seen internationally and reflect changing practice patterns over time.

This paper presents an experimental investigation of the flexural buckling behaviour and resistance of innovative self-compacting lightweight concrete (LWSCC)-filled cold-formed built-up box section (CFBBS) columns. A series of sixteen LWSCC-filled CFBBS columns and four reference hollow columns formed by two nested asymmetric lipped channel sections using breakstem rivets at flanges with various member relative slendernesses ratios, concrete strengths and section sizes were tested under pin-ended boundary conditions. Material tests and initial global geometry imperfection measurements were carried out and reported in present study. The failure modes and deformation developments, lateral deflection distribution along the column specimens, flexural buckling resistance and load-end shortening relationship of the specimens were scrutinised and discussed concerning the effect of parameters and the associated coupling effects. Furthermore, a comprehensive strain analysis was conducted and reported based on the longitudinal and lateral strain developments at both compression and tension zones under flexure; it was found that the composite action abated as the member length increased. Finally, as there is no existing design codes for LWSCC-filled CFBBS columns, the experimental results were used to evaluate the applicability of relevant international codified provisions, including Eurocode (EC4), Australia/New Zealand Standard (AS/NZS 2327) and America Specification (AISC 360-16). It was found that AS/NZS 2327 yielded the most accurate and moderately scattered predictions while the predictions from EC4 were found to be the most scattered but with reasonable accuracy and those from AISC 360-16 were overly conservative, albeit the least scattered among these design codes. • Pin-ended tests were performed on the LWSCC-filled CFBBS columns. • The flexural buckling behaviour and resistance of LWSCC-filled CFBBS columns were studied. • Influences of concrete strength, member slenderness, section sizes and their coupling effects were discussed. • Comprehensive strain analysis was conducted to scrutinise the composite action. • Existing design provisions were assessed for their applicability to LWSCC-filled CFBBS columns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents a series of four-point bending tests investigating global buckling of cold-rolled aluminium alloy channel beam members. These types of sections have been commercially fabricated in Australia using a roll-forming process as distinct from the usual extrusion process. A total of twenty specimens of three commercially available channel sections with two thicknesses and various lengths were tested at the University of Sydney. Mechanical properties of aluminium alloy 5052 material were reported on the basis of tests of tensile and compression coupons cut longitudinally from both flat and corner parts of the cross-sections. Prior to the testing of beams, initial geometric imperfections of each specimen were measured using a laser scanning method. A dual-actuator test rig was specially designed to maintain the load vertically applied through the shear centre of the channel section throughout the test. Flexural-torsional and distortional buckling modes were observed including interaction of these modes. The paper also details finite element (FE) models developed using the commercial ABAQUS software package to simulate the behaviour and ultimate member buckling capacities of cold-rolled aluminium alloy channel beams. The FE models with the incorporation of measured properties and actual imperfections are verified against the experimental results indicating good agreements. The test results are then compared with the design strength predictions from current specifications. The calibrated model results are laying the foundation for undertaking parametric studies and proposing new design rules for the global and distortional buckling capacities of these types of cold-rolled aluminium alloy channel sections in the subsequent work. Unlabelled Image [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes a series of compression tests performed on long columns fabricated from cold-formed high strength steel plates with nominal yield stress of 550 MPa. The steel is classified as G550 to Australia Standard AS1397. The test results presented in this paper are the second stage of an Australian Research Council research project entitled “Compression stability of high strength steel sections with low strain-hardening.” A total of 28 long columns, which were made from two thicknesses of sheet steel (0.42 and 0.6 mm), were tested. A box shaped section was tested between pinned ends over a range of lengths. This paper shows the comparison of loads obtained experimentally with those predicted on the basis of AS/NZS 4600 and the AISI specification including Supplement No. 1, 1999. The finite element program, ABAQUS, was also used to simulate the column behavior. For sections which undergo local instability at loads significantly less than the ultimate loads, the column design rules in AS/NZS 4600 and the AISI Specification are unconservative if used in their current form for G550 steel. Proposals for improved column design of high strength slender sections are proposed in this paper. A first companion paper (Part I) describes a series of compassion tests on stub columns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes a series of compression tests performed on stub columns fabricated from cold-formed high strength steel plates with nominal yield stress of 550 MPa. The steel is classified as G550 to Australia Standard AS1397. The test results presented in this paper are the first stage of an Australian Research Council research project entitled “Compression stability of high strength steel sections with low strain-hardening.” The tests include lipped-square and hexagonal sections, including 94 box-shaped fix-ended stub columns. The purpose of these tests was to determine the influence of low strain hardening of G550 steel on the compressive section capacities of the column members. The results of the successful stub column tests have been compared with the design procedures in the Australian/New Zealand Standard for Cold-Formed Steel Structures and recent (1999) amendments to the American Iron and Steel Institute Specification. As expected, the greatest effect of low strain hardening was for the stockier sections where material properties play an important role. For the more slender sections where elastic local buckling and postlocal buckling are more important, the effect of low strain hardening does not appear to be as significant. This is contrary to recent design proposals in the USA where it was proposed that the more slender sections would be more greatly influenced by low strain hardening. A simple proposal for improved design capacity is given in the paper. A second companion paper (Part II) describes a series of compression tests on long columns made from the same material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Investigated the behaviour of slender screw-fastened nested channel (NC) members. • Torsional and flexural–torsional buckling are not critical for NC members. • NC member capacity can be higher than the sum of individual capacities in some cases. • Effects of screw fastener arrangements and end group fasteners are marginal. • Proposed a simplified and reliable design method based on the current DSM equations. Built-up nested channel (NC) members, which are made of asymmetric cold-formed steel (CFS) lipped channel sections are commonly used in various building applications in Australia. The aim of this research study is to provide suitable design guidelines for NC compression members, which fail by global or local–global interaction buckling. Firstly, the design rules in the current CFS design standards and recently published research studies were reviewed, and their limitations for NC members were discussed. A test series was then conducted on single channel and NC compression members, which failed by local–global interaction buckling. Based on the test results, validated finite element (FE) models were developed, followed by a detailed parametric study of NC members failing in global or local–global interaction buckling for different sections, lengths, end support boundary conditions as well as screw sizes and arrangements. The test and FE analysis results were used to: (1) compare the compression capacities of NC members with the sum of their individual member capacities, (2) evaluate the effect of screw characteristics and arrangements, and (3) investigate the design methods in the current design standards and past research studies. Finally, based on the Direct Strength Method in the current design standards, a simple and reliable design method was proposed. This paper presents the details of this research study and the results including its findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sinusoidal corrugated profile webs have been popularly used in steel structural designs to replace the flat webs in conventional welded beams, while there are better performances in corrugated web beams (CWBs) regarding more stability and less material used to against beam failures caused by buckling. Previous studies have provided that CWBs enabled numerous favourable benefits to be recognised as alternatives to the traditional weld beams in designing structures. Furthermore, as CWBs are proposed as the major load‐carrying elements, the maximum deflection in the elastic range is one of the important beam properties that should be precisely estimated and calculated. To find an appropriate method in computing the maximum deflection of CWBs based on the first yield for civil communities in Australia, proposed equations based on other standards will be employed to calculate the theoretical results for the comparisons with simulation‐based results. While applying the linear analysis simulations provided by SAP 2000, ultimate limit state design theory has also been used with requirements stated by AS 4100. In this study, the results in theoretical calculations and numerical simulations have been compared to conclude that the highly defined equations by ASTM [37] and Sause et al. [38] could precisely estimate the maximum deflections of CWBs based on the first yield in conjunction with requirements and limitations in Australian standards, which could be adequate for the structural design calculations in Australian design fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Variations in the extent of Cenozoic marine inundation of Australia, as revealed by the distribution of marine and nearshore deposits, points to a tectonic regime involving three distinct modes of deformation. At the longest wavelengths (order 103 km), the continent has experienced southwest-up, northeast-down tilting with an amplitude of ∼300 m since the Late Eocene. We attribute this tilting to the dynamic topographic response to the northward motion of Australia towards the subduction realm of Indonesia and the western Pacific, as well as its passage across a complexly structured mantle. At short wavelengths (order 101 km), variations in elevation are associated with cumulative fault movements up to the order of 100 m. Fault-slip vectors are generally compatible with the prevailing in situ stress field and therefore can be allied to distant plate-boundary forcing. At intermediate wavelengths (order 102 km), undulations with amplitudes of the order of ∼100 m reflect, at least in part, lithospheric buckling due to relatively high levels of intraplate stress arising from plate-boundary forcing. Understanding the patterns of surface deformation associated with each of these deformation modes provides a tectonic framework against which the broader significance of the Australian Cenozoic record for such things as eustasy must be evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To develop and assess the test-retest reliability of a survey exploring high-performance athletes' perceptions and experiences during and post-pregnancy., Design: Cross-sectional mixed-methods survey., Methods: A three-phase approach was employed to develop the Mum-Alete survey. Relevant domains and questions were identified through a review of the literature and gap analysis (Phase 1). The face and content validity were assessed during Phase 2. The survey was modified, and the final survey included 113 questions. The test-retest reliability was assessed during Phase 3. Seven athletes aged ≥18 years who were currently pregnant and/or given birth since 1 July 2016 were recruited. The survey was administered via Qualtrics and completed on two occasions. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) were determined to assess test-retest reliability (excellent, good, moderate, and poor)., Results: The average ICC of all items was 0.962 (95% CI 0.957-0.966) demonstrating excellent test-retest reliability. The test-retest reliability was excellent for the demographic and general questions domain (ICC = 0.967 95% CI 0.955-0.977) and good for the exercise (ICC 0.762 95% CI 0.707-0.811), physical health (ICC 0.841 95% CI 0.810-0.868) and well-being (ICC 0.827 95% CI 0.784-0.865) domains., Conclusions: The high test-retest reliability of the survey indicates excellent consistency of measures between the two time-points., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest None declared., (Crown Copyright © 2022. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

The paper summarizes the main new design provisions included in the recently revised Australian standard for steel storage racks. The standard features multitiered analysis provisions ranging from basic linear-elastic analysis-based provisions to highly advanced integrated design-analysis [geometric and material nonlinear analysis with imperfections (GMNIA)] provisions that allow the analysis and design to be completed in one step. The GMNIA provisions distinguish between beam element-based and shell element-based analysis according to cross section slenderness and provide rules for the imperfections to use for the two types of analysis, including imperfections in the local and distortional buckling modes for the shell element-based analysis. The selection of the system-based reliability (resistance) factor () is discussed. The standard is seen as the most advanced design code of its type currently available for frame-type steel structures. The paper also provides an in-depth discussion about the use of linear and nonlinear elastic analysis methods for the design of steel storage racks and how torsion may be considered in determining design capacities while not in the structural analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents a study of the capacities of steel rack frames based on linear analysis (LA), geometric nonlinear analysis (GNA), and geometric and material nonlinear analysis (GMNIA). In the case of linear and geometric nonlinear analyses, the design is carried out to the Australian cold-formed steel structures AS/NZS4600. The study includes braced, unbraced, and semi-braced frames, and compact and noncompact cross sections. The paper shows axial force and bending moment paths for geometric and geometric and material nonlinear analyses, and explains the differences observed in the design capacities obtained using the different types of analysis based on these paths. The paper provides evidence to support the use of advanced GMNIA for the direct design of steel rack frames without the need for checking section or member capacities to a structural design standard. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Transimpedance measurements from cochlear implant electrodes have the potential to identify anomalous electrode array placement, such as tip fold-over (TFO) or fold-back, basal electrode kinking, or buckling. Analysing transimpedance may thus replace intraoperative or post-operative radiological imaging to detect any potential misplacements. A transimpedance algorithm was previously developed to detect deviations from a normal electrode position with the aim of intraoperatively detecting TFO. The algorithm had been calibrated on 35 forced, tip folded electrode arrays in six temporal bones to determine the threshold criterion required to achieve a sensitivity of 100%. Our primary objective here was to estimate the specificity of this TFO algorithm in patients, in a prospective study, for a series of electrode arrays shown to be normally inserted by post-operative imaging. Methods: Intracochlear voltages were intraoperatively recorded for 157 ears, using Cochlear's Custom Sound™ EP 5 electrophysiological software (Cochlear Ltd., Sydney, NSW, Australia), for both Nucleus® CI512 and CI532 electrode arrays. The algorithm analysed the recorded 22 × 22 transimpedance matrix (TIM) and results were displayed as a heatmap intraoperatively, only visible to the technician in the operating theatre. After all clinical data were collected, the algorithm was evaluated on the bench. The algorithm measures the transimpedance gradients and corresponding phase angles (θ) throughout the TIM and calculates the gradient phase range. If this was greater than the predetermined threshold, the algorithm classified the electrode array insertion as having a TFO. Results: Five ears had no intraoperative TIM and four anomalous matrices were identified from heatmaps and removed from the specificity analysis. Using the 148 remaining data sets (n = 103 CI532 and n = 45 CI512), the algorithm had an average specificity of 98.6% (95.80%–99.75%). Conclusion: The algorithm was found to be an effective screening tool for the identification of TFOs. Its specificity was within acceptable levels and resulted in a positive predictive value of 76%, with an estimated incidence of fold-over of 4% in perimodiolar arrays. This would mean 3 out of 4 cases flagged as a fold-over would be correctly identified by the algorithm, with the other being a false positive. The measurements were applied easily in theatre allowing it to be used as a routine clinical tool for confirming correct electrode placement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In roof systems, a high strength steel profiled sheeting fastened to high strength steel cold-formed purlins of a lipped C- or Z-section is commonly used throughout the world. The design of such systems is performed according to the provisions of the limit states Australia/New Zealand Standard for Cold-Formed Steel Structures in Australia and the North American Specification for the Design of Cold-Formed Steel Structural Members in the United States. In both standards, which include the newly developed direct strength method of design (DSM), the method presented is limited to pure compression and pure bending. The situations of pure shear and combined bending and shear as occurs in a continuous purlin system are not considered. In order to extend the DSM to purlin systems, three different test series on high strength cold-formed C-section purlins have been performed at the University of Sydney. The test series include predominantly shear, combined bending and shear, and bending only test series. Two different section depths and three different thicknesses of the lipped channel section were tested in this study. Further, tests with and without torsion/distortion restraint straps screwed on the top flanges adjacent to the loading points were also considered. This paper summarizes the test results and formulas developed from the effective width method and the DSM. Proposals for design are included in this paper. Comparisons with the Australian Steel Structures Standard are also included to take account of the tension field action. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Softwood is widely employed in construction and faces high demand. Australia is grappling with substantial timber scarcity, specifically related to radiata pine, which is the dominant structural timber in the construction sector. However, Australia has a significant hardwood population, which can be utilized to reduce the high demand for radiata pine. This paper aims to investigate the bond properties of both Australian softwood (radiata pine) and hardwood (shining gum). It also discusses the potential to combine softwood and hardwood in glue or cross-laminated timber by evaluating the bond properties of the radiata pine–shining gum interface. For hardwood, the effect of primer is also investigated to determine its efficacy in improving failure mode, bond strength, and stiffness. Lastly, both glulam and cross-laminated timber bonding scenarios are simulated for bond testing by examining the effect of relative fibre orientation on the bond properties of the aforementioned species individually and in combination. Instead of conventional block shear testing, which is predominantly used for same-species bond testing, push-out testing is adopted in this study. However, a comparison with block shear testing is also made in this article. The results indicated that the use of primer on hardwood reduced the inconsistencies in the bond properties and improved wood-side failure rates. It was also concluded that the effect of fibre orientation in a CLT scenario with combined hardwood and softwood failure modes can vary significantly, which leads to a higher standard deviation in the results. Nevertheless, this study outlines the challenges and opportunities for producing hardwood–softwood hybrid glue or cross-laminated timber. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The traditional approach to formulating building codes often is slow and labor-intensive, and may struggle to keep pace with the rapid evolution of technology and domain findings. Overcoming such challenges necessitates a methodology that streamlines the modernization of codal provisions. This paper proposes a machine learning (ML) approach to append a variety of codal provisions, including those of empirical, statistical, and theoretical natures. In this approach, a codal provision (i.e., equation) is analyzed to trace its properties (e.g., engineering intuition and causal logic). Then a ML model is tailored to preserve the same properties and satisfy a collection of similarity and performance measures until declared equivalent to the provision at hand. The resulting ML model harnesses the predictive capabilities of ML while arriving at predictions similar to the codal provision used to train the ML model, and hence it becomes possible to use in lieu of the codal expression. This approach was examined successfully for seven structural engineering phenomena contained within various building codes, including those in North America and Australia. The findings suggest that the proposed approach could lay the groundwork for implementing ML in the development of future building codes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Skeletal remains of sauropod dinosaurs have been known from Australia for over 100 years. Unfortunately, the classification of the majority of these specimens to species level has historically been impeded by their incompleteness. This has begun to change in the last 15 years, primarily through the discovery and description of several partial skeletons from the Cenomanian-lower Turonian (lower Upper Cretaceous) Winton Formation in central Queensland, with four species erected to date: Australotitan cooperensis, Diamantinasaurus matildae, Savannasaurus elliottorum, and Wintonotitan wattsi. The first three of these appear to form a clade (Diamantinasauria) of early diverging titanosaurs (or close relatives of titanosaurs), whereas Wintonotitan wattsi is typically recovered as a distantly related non-titanosaurian somphospondylan. Through the use of 3D scanning, we digitised numerous specimens of Winton Formation sauropods, facilitating enhanced comparison between type and referred specimens, and heretofore undescribed specimens. We present new anatomical information on the holotype specimen of Diamantinasaurus matildae, and describe new remains pertaining to twelve sauropod individuals. Firsthand observations and digital analysis enabled previously proposed autapomorphic features of all four named Winton Formation sauropod species to be identified in the newly described specimens, with some specimens exhibiting putative autapomorphies of more than one species, prompting a reassessment of their taxonomic validity. Supported by a specimen-level phylogenetic analysis, we suggest that Australotitan cooperensis is probably a junior synonym of Diamantinasaurus matildae, but conservatively regard it herein as an indeterminate diamantinasaurian, meaning that the Winton Formation sauropod fauna now comprises three (rather than four) valid diamantinasaurian species: Diamantinasaurus matildae, Savannasaurus elliottorum, and Wintonotitan wattsi, with the latter robustly supported as a member of the clade for the first time. We refer some of the newly described specimens to these three species and provide revised diagnoses, with some previously proposed autapomorphies now regarded as diamantinasaurian synapomorphies. Our newly presented anatomical data and critical reappraisal of the Winton Formation sauropods facilitates a more comprehensive understanding of the mid-Cretaceous sauropod palaeobiota of central Queensland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The LiteSteel Beam (LSB) is a new cold-formed steel hollow flange channel beam recently developed in Australia. It is commonly used as a floor joist or bearer in buildings. Current practice in flooring systems is to include openings in the web element of floor joists or bearers so that building services can be located within them. Shear behaviour of LSBs with web openings is more complicated while their shear strengths are considerably reduced by the presence of web openings. However, no research has been undertaken on the shear behaviour and strength of LSBs with web openings. Therefore a detailed experimental study involving 26 shear tests was undertaken on simply supported LSB test specimens with web openings and an aspect ratio of 1.5. This paper presents the details of this experimental study and the results of their shear capacities and behavioural characteristics. Experimental results showed that the current design rules in cold-formed steel structures design codes are very conservative for the shear design of LSBs with web openings. Improved design equations have been proposed for the shear strength of LSBs with web openings based on the experimental results from this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the behaviour and design of duplex stainless steel stub columns with a circular hollow cross‐section (CHS) at elevated temperature. A numerical model is developed to supplement the limited number of test results available in the literature. Following validation, the numerical approach is employed to gain an understanding of the critical behavioural characteristics which have not previously been studied. In addition, the paper considers and extends the continuous strength method (CSM) to include duplex stainless steel for CHS stub columns in fire. This approach employs a base curve linking the cross‐sectional resistance to the deformation capacity and is implemented herein using an elastic, linear hardening material model. The cross‐sectional resistances obtained from the CSM are compared with those from the numerical analysis, as well as with the standardised procedures in the European, American and Australia/New Zealand design standards. It is demonstrated that the proposed design method can lead to more accurate and less scattered strength predictions compared with current design codes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2022, the Society for Reproductive Biology came together in Christchurch New Zealand (NZ), for its first face-to-face meeting since the global COVID-19 pandemic. The meeting showcased recent advancements in reproductive research across a diverse range of themes relevant to human health and fertility, exotic species conservation, and agricultural breeding practices. Here, we highlight the key advances presented across the main themes of the meeting, including advances in addressing opportunities and challenges in reproductive health related to First Nations people in Australia and NZ; increasing conservation success of exotic species, including ethical management of invasive species; improvements in our understanding of developmental biology, specifically seminal fluid signalling, ovarian development and effects of environmental impacts such as endocrine-disrupting chemicals; and leveraging scientific breakthroughs in reproductive engineering to drive solutions for fertility, including in assisted reproductive technologies in humans and agricultural industries, and for regenerative medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By imposing novel selection pressures on both participants, biological invasions can modify evolutionary 'arms races' between hosts and parasites. A spatially replicated cross-infection experiment reveals strong spatial divergence in the ability of lungworms (Rhabdias pseudosphaerocephala) to infect invasive cane toads (Rhinella marina) in Australia. In areas colonized for longer than 20 years, toads are more resistant to infection by local strains of parasites than by allopatric strains. The situation reverses at the invasion front, where super-infective parasites have evolved. Invasion-induced shifts in genetic diversity and selective pressures may explain why hosts gain advantage over parasites in long-colonized areas, whereas parasites gain advantage at the invasion front. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the structural stability and compressive capacity of pin-ended cold-formed stainless steel angle columns with different slenderness were experimentally investigated. The experimental programme was performed on press-braked lean duplex stainless steel equal-leg angle sections with nominal dimensions of 80 × 80 × 4 mm, and involved material testing, initial imperfection measurements and 11 column tests. The test setup and procedure, together with the key experimental results, axial load vs. lateral deflections, axial load vs. torsional rotations and characterised failure modes, were fully reported and analysed. The experimental observations reveal that the failure mode type, including local/torsional, flexural-torsional and flexural effects, is highly dependent on the column's slenderness and initial imperfections. The measured compressive strengths were compared with the resistance predictions determined according to European and Australia/New Zealand codified design procedures. It was found that experimentally obtained ultimate capacities are significantly higher than those calculated according to the specifications. However, the database of test results is still quite limited, and a further research is needed to amplify the data needed to enable a more precise assessment of the codified procedures. • Eleven pin-ended cold-formed stainless steel equal-leg angle columns were tested. • Different buckling failure modes were systematically investigated. • Failure loads conservatively predicted by European and Australian design procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cold-formed steel sections are used in many different shapes based on their applications. Recently, a new C-section known as SupaCee was introduced in Australia with higher flexural capacities compared to traditional channel sections. However, all cold-formed steel sections are vulnerable to web crippling failures due to their higher plate slenderness. Australian/New Zealand (AS/NZS 4600) and North American (AISI S100) Standards use a unified web crippling design equation with four coefficients while Eurocode 3 Part 1.3 uses different design equations to predict the web crippling capacities of cold-formed steel sections. The web crippling coefficients were developed based on the experimental studies undertaken since the 1940s. These experimental studies utilised different test set-ups and specimens lengths and hence the accuracy of predictions using these coefficients may be inadequate. No coefficients are available for unlipped channel sections with fastened supports and high strength SupaCee sections while the same coefficients are used for lipped channels with fastened and unfastened supports. To address these shortcomings, the web crippling behaviour of unlipped and lipped channel and SupaCee sections was experimentally investigated based on recently developed AISI S909 web crippling test guidelines. Finite element analyses were then performed to extend the range of cold-formed steel sections. Using the web crippling capacity results from both experiments and finite element analyses, new equations were proposed to determine the web crippling capacities of lipped and unlipped channel and SupaCee sections. Suitable direct strength method based web crippling design equations were also developed. This paper presents the important details of several detailed web crippling studies undertaken recently including a suite of web crippling design equations that can be adopted in relevant cold-formed steel standards. • Investigated web crippling behaviour of several cold-formed steel sections. • Developed advanced finite element models, validated and used in detailed parametric studies. • Proposed improved web crippling coefficients for AS/NZS4600/AISI S100 equations. • Developed predictive equations for the buckling loads for DSM based design. • Developed DSM equations for the web crippling design of cold-formed steel sections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article investigates the three mechanical models arising from nanoscale and biological systems and the utilization of the models for investigating molecular stretching in the connective tissue extracellular matriax in Australia. It states that the models include dynamics of various nanostructures, axial buckling of carbon nanotubes and nanopeapods and worm-like chain model for stretched semi-flexible molecules. It emphasizes that circular orbiting frequencies of the proposed nanosystems are in the gigahertz range.

Cold-formed steel shear walls are commonly used in the housing industry. Generally, the wall stud connections play an important role in the seismic performance of these structures as they should be capable to dissipate the induced energy via the plastic deformation of the shear wall components. The riveted connection between the studs and the tracks is one of the most important components that dictates the behaviour and strength of such panels. In this paper, details of an experimental study on the behaviour and strength of two types of rivets which are applied in riveted wall stud connections under tension and compression monotonic loading are presented. Twenty-four full-scale specimens were taken into account. Two dominant failure modes are identified: rivet head failure and buckling failure of the section away from the connection in tension and compression tests, respectively. The results show that the second rivet type (type O) possesses a higher capacity in both tension and compression; and therefore is recommended to use by CFS designers. In addition, the design capacities of the connections were calculated based on some design codes and compared with the experimental results. It is shown that the codes are too conservative and can be improved considerably. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. To provide a bibliographical-historical perspective and main interest in the field of myopia. Methods. In this bibliographic study, the Web of Science Database was searched from 1999 to 2018. Recorded parameters included journal name, impact factor, year and language, number of authors, type and origin, methodology, number of subjects, funding, and topics. Results. Epidemiological assessments were the leading type of article (28%), and half of the papers were prospective studies. The number of citations for multicenter studies was significantly higher (P = 0.034). The articles were published in 27 journals, with the majority in Investigative Ophthalmology, Vision Sciences (28%), and Ophthalmology (26%). Etiology, signs and symptoms, and treatment equally encompassed the topics. Papers addressing etiology, specifically genetic and environmental factors (P = 0.029), signs and symptoms (P = 0.001), and prevention, specifically public awareness (47%, P = 0.005), received significantly more citations. Treatment to decrease myopia progression was a much more common topic (68%) than refractive surgery (32%). Optical treatment was the most popular modality (39%). Half of the publications came from 3 countries: the United States (US), Australia, and Singapore. The highest ranked and cited papers came from the US (P = 0.028) and Singapore (P = 0.028). Conclusions. To our knowledge, this is the first report of the top-cited articles on myopia. There is a predominance of epidemiological assessments and multicenter studies originating from the US, Australia, and Singapore, assessing etiology, signs and symptoms, and prevention. These are more frequently cited, emphasizing the great interest in mapping the increase in the incidence of myopia in different countries, public health awareness, and myopia control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous research has shown that freshwater edible fish imported into Australia are not compliant with Australian importation guidelines and as a result may be high risk for bacterial contamination. In the present study, the outer surface of imported freshwater fish were swabbed, cultured, confirmatory tests performed and antimicrobial patterns investigated. Channidae fish (Sp. A/n = 66) were contaminated with zoonotic Salmonella sp./Staphylococcus aureus (n = 1/66) and other bacteria implicated in cases of opportunistic human infection, these being Pseudomonas sp. (including P. mendocina and P. pseudoalcaligenes (n = 34/66)); Micrococcus sp. (n = 32/66); Comamonas testosteroni (n = 27/66) and Rhizobium radiobacter (n = 3/66). Pangasiidae fish (Species B/n = 47) were contaminated with zoonotic Vibrio fluvialis (n = 10/47); Salmonella sp. (n = 6/47) and environmental bacteria Micrococcus sp. (n = 3/47). One sample was resistant to all antimicrobials tested and is considered to be Methicillin Resistant S. aureus. Mud, natural diet, or vegetation identified in Sp. A fish/or packaging were significantly associated with the presence of Pseudomonas spp. The study also showed that visibly clean fish (Sp. B) may harbour zoonotic bacteria and that certain types of bacteria are common to fish groups, preparations, and contaminants. Further investigations are required to support the development of appropriate food safety recommendations in Australia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Innovative digital twins (DTs) that allow engineers to visualise, share information, and monitor the condition during operation is necessary to optimise railway construction and maintenance. Building Information Modelling (BIM) is an approach for creating and managing an inventive 3D model simulating digital information that is useful to project management, monitoring and operation of a specific asset during the whole life cycle assessment (LCA). BIM application can help to provide an efficient cost management and time schedule and reduce the project delivery time throughout the whole life cycle of the project. In this study, an innovative DT has been developed using BIM integration through a life cycle analysis. Minnamurra Railway Bridge (MRB), Australia, has been chosen as a real-world use case to demonstrate the extended application of BIM (i.e., the DT) to enhance the operation, maintenance and asset management to improve the sustainability and resilience of the railway bridge. Moreover, the DT has been exploited to determine GHG emissions and cost consumption through the integration of BIM. This study demonstrates the feasibility of DT technology for railway maintenance and resilience optimisation. It also generates a virtual collaboration for co-simulations and co-creation of values across stakeholders participating in construction, operation and maintenance, and enhancing a reduction in costs and GHG emission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The largest underwater sculpture in the world, the 'Coral Greenhouse' by artist Jason deCaires Taylor, was commissioned by the Museum of Underwater Art and installed at John Brewer Reef, Australia, in December 2019. The planning process required certified engineering design drawings associated with design life, durability and suitability of materials, and baseline ecological surveys. Following approval, the operational phase required annual monitoring of substrate, ecology, social values, and marine debris. We geo-referenced three permanent transects and designed a before/after rapid monitoring assessment of substrate, fish, and invertebrates. Substrate surveys indicated 11% concrete and 89% sand. Fish surveys indicated significant increases of diversity and abundance, with 12 species and 65 individuals recorded in 2018 compared to 46 species and 365 individuals recorded in 2022. Macroinvertebrate species maintained no significant trends in abundance, species richness, and diversity with respect to time between 2018 and 2022. We monitored coral restoration and natural recruitment at the site, measuring aesthetics, survivorship of planted corals, and coral recruitment. Of 131 corals transplanted in March 2020, survivorship was 100% at 1 month, 92% at 6 months, and 91.6% at 12 months. Hard and soft corals were recruited to the structure at a density of 8.35 hard corals/m2 and 10.9 soft corals/m2 over 26 months. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The production of a stable foam on the surfaces of reactors is a global operating problem in activated sludge plants. In many cases, these foams are stabilized by hydrophobic members of the Mycolata, a group of Actinobacteria whose outer membranes contain long‐chain hydroxylated mycolic acids. There is currently no single strategy which works for all foams. One attractive approach is to use lytic bacteriophages specific for the foam stabilizing Mycolata population. Such phages are present in activated sludge mixed liquor and can be recovered readily from it. However, no phage has been recovered which lyses Gordonia amarae and Gordonia pseudoamarae, probably the most common foaming Mycolata members. Whole genome sequencing revealed that both G. amarae and G. pseudoamarae from plants around the world are particularly well endowed with genes encoding antiviral defence mechanisms. However, both these populations were lysed rapidly by a parasitic nanobacterium isolated from a plant in Australia. This organism, a member of the Saccharibacteria, was also effective against many other Mycolata, thus providing a potential agent for control of foams stabilized by them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine the prevalence and burden of pain and activity limitations associated with retaining presurgery self-reported knee instability 6 months after total knee replacement (TKR) surgery and to identify early potentially modifiable risk factors for retaining knee instability in the operated knee after TKR surgery.Methods: A secondary analysis was performed using measures obtained from 390 participants undergoing primary unilateral TKR and participating in a randomized clinical trial. Self-reported knee instability was measured using 2 items from the Activities of Daily Living Scale of the Knee Outcome Survey. Outcome measures were knee pain (range 0-20) and physical function (range 0-68) on the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC), stair-climb power, 50-foot walk time, knee range of motion, and isometric knee flexion and extension strength.Results: In this study, 72% of participants reported knee instability just prior to surgery, with 32% retaining instability in the operated knee 6 months after surgery. Participants retaining operated knee instability had significantly more knee pain and activity limitations 6 months after surgery, with mean ± SD WOMAC scores of 4.8 ± 3.7 and 17.5 ± 11.1, respectively, compared to participants without knee instability, with 2.9 ± 3.1 and 9.8 ± 9.2. The multivariable predictor model for retained knee instability included a high comorbidity score (>6), low stair-climb power (<150 watts), more pain in the operated knee (>7 of 20), and younger age (<60 years).Conclusion: Self-reported knee instability is highly prevalent before and after TKR surgery and is associated with a considerable burden of pain and activity limitation in the operated knee. Increasing lower extremity muscle power may reduce the risk of retaining knee instability after TKR surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Australian railway networks suffer a large fluctuation of extreme heats each year due to their wide variety of geographical conditions. Depending on climatic, cloud and radiation conditions, an ambient temperature of 20 °C could induce an equivalent thermal load absorption of track components as much as 30 °C to 35 °C or even more. As such, relatively high turnover of timber sleepers (crossties in a plain track), bearers (skeleton ties in a turnout), and transoms (bridge cross beams) can often be observed due to their unstable deformation and rapid deterioration. This paper investigates an application for the replacement of ageing timber transoms mounted on existing railway bridges using fibre reinforced foamed urethane (FFU) transom beams, which are proven to provide environmental, safety and financial benefits. Clear benefits of the FFU material are the maintainability and constructability, especially for existing railway bridges. In this study, numerical simulations using finite element package ABAQUS have been carried out to illustrate the effect of thermal loads on the structural behaviour of a railway transom bridge. The model was developed using a case study of an actual railway bridge in Kiama, Australia and it has been validated by field data measurements. It is found that nonlinear structural behaviour of the bridge components exists at highly elevated temperatures. The better insight into the thermal load responses will lead to safer and more reliable rail stress adjustment practice, preventing rail misalignment or buckling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Discusses several structural failures in Australia Investigation into their causes; Role of the expert in the resolution of structural problems; Problems associated with design and operation; Refurbishing structures and dealing with geotechnical problems.

Cattle enterprises are one of the major livestock production systems globally and are forecasted to have stable growth in the next decade. To facilitate sustainable live weight production, optimal reproductive performance is essential. Microbial colonisation in the reproductive tract has been demonstrated as one of the factors contributing to bovine reproductive performance. Studies also implied that reproductive metagenomes are different at each stage of the estrous cycle. This study applied Oxford Nanopore Technologies' adaptive long-read sequencing to profile the bovine reproductive microbiome collected from tropical cattle in northern Queensland, Australia. The microbiome samples were collected from cattle of different sexes, reproductive status and locations to provide a comprehensive view of the bovine reproductive microbiome in northern Australian cattle. Ascomycota, Firmicutes and Proteobacteria were abundant phyla identified in the bovine reproductive metagenomes of Australian cattle regardless of sexes, reproductive status and location. The species level taxonomical investigation suggested that gastrointestinal metagenome and the surrounding environment were potentially the origins of the bovine reproductive metagenome. Functional profiles further affirmed this implication, revealing that the reproductive metagenomes of the prepubertal and postpartum animals were dominated by microorganisms that catabolise dietary polysaccharides as an energy substrate while that of the pregnant animals had the function of harvesting energy from aromatic compounds. Bovine reproductive metagenome investigations can be employed to trace the origins of abnormal metagenomes, which is beneficial for disease prevention and control. Additionally, our results demonstrated different reproductive metagenome diversities between cattle from two different locations. The variation in diversity within one location can serve as the indicator of abnormal reproductive metagenome, but between locations inferences cannot be made. We suggest establishing localised metagenomic indices that can be used to infer abnormal reproductive metagenomes which contribute to abortion or sub-fertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the results of a benchmarking study on face support practice in seismically active mines in Australia and Canada. The choice of ground support strategies is based on the anticipated strainburst hazard as well as corporate, legislative, and operational requirements. Although mines appear to employ similar face support standards, using friction rock stabilizers and mesh, the details and the resulting coverage vary from site to site. The variations in design and coverage result in significantly different residual risks. The case is made for documenting strainburst events at the mining face and using this information to formally assess the effectiveness of implemented face support practice at the various mine sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]