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Combining Lumipulse p-tau217 and Aβ42/40 as confirmatory tests for Aβ positivity prior to disease-modifying therapy
No full textIntroduction: For a blood-based biomarker to be considered a confirmatory test for the detection of abnormal amyloid beta (Aβ) levels, the sensitivity and specificity must be equivalent to that of current cerebrospinal fluid tests. Methods: In the current study we assessed the ability of phosphorylated tau (p-tau)217 and Aβ42/40 from the Lumipulse G p-tau217 and β-amyloid ratio (1-42/1-40) tests, individually and combined, to predict Aβ positron emission tomography status in two sub-cohorts from the Australian Imaging, Biomarkers, and Lifestyle Study of Ageing. Results: Testing an Alzheimer\u27s disease continuum cohort, the area under the curve (AUC), sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy for the p-tau217/Aβ42 ratio reached 0.961, 93%, 92%, and 93%, respectively. Validation in an intention-to-treat cohort demonstrated similar AUC (0.959), with increased sensitivity (99%), decreased specificity (87%), and increased accuracy (95%). Dual cut-offs generating balanced 95% sensitivity/specificity result in 93% accuracy. Discussion: Combinations of plasma p-tau217 and Aβ42 demonstrate recommended performance, confirming the presence of Aβ positivity prior to selection for disease-modifying therapies. Highlights: The phosphorylated tau (p-tau)217/amyloid beta (Aβ)42 ratio had high performance to detect Aβ positron emission tomography (PET) status, with \u3e 90% sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy. p-tau217/Aβ42 ratio dual cut-offs set at 95% sensitivity and specificity found 10% to 15% of participants in the intermediate zone. Cut-offs derived for the intention-to-treat cohort meet confirmatory assay criteria for a disease-modifying therapy and can be used in clinical settings
Exploring preferences for interventions to increase active school transportation among children and adolescents in Australia
No full textIntroduction: The observed decline in children\u27s active school transport (AST) across numerous countries over recent decades necessitates targeted, multi-level interventions to reverse this trend. However, data on young people\u27s preferred AST interventions is lacking. This study aimed to explore children\u27s preferences for AST interventions and assess differences between AST users and non-users among primary and secondary school students. Methods: In 2023, a cross-sectional survey was conducted in Perth, Western Australia with n = 742 primary school students from 23 schools and n = 412 secondary school students from 9 schools. The survey assessed AST frequency, preferred transport mode, and AST intervention preferences, which included ‘built environment changes’ (n = 7), ‘policy changes’ (n = 3), ‘public transport’ (n = 2), ‘school-based programs and services’ (n = 6) and ‘community awareness’ (n = 3) initiatives. Results: For primary school students, the most common mode of transport was by car. However, the most preferred method was walking. For secondary school students, the most common and the most preferred method was by car. Regardless of age or AST use, the majority of students\u27 most preferred interventions were ‘built environment changes’. These included: ‘more safe crossings near the school’, ‘paths on both sides of every road within the school catchment area’, and ‘dedicated bike paths separated from the roads’. Conclusions: This study provides valuable insights into the interventions students self-report as most effective for increasing their AST. The findings indicate a strong preference for built environment modifications among the top interventions selected by students, suggesting built environment changes should be a priority in developing future AST interventions
Improved strength and corrosion resistance of Ti–50Zr alloy through heat treatment
No full textThis work systematically analyzes the effects of heat treatment on the mechanical properties and corrosion behavior of Ti-50Zr alloy produced via vacuum arc melting. Microstructural characterization demonstrates that the microstructure of Ti–50Zr transforms from coarse lamellar α phase in as-cast condition to fine and uniformly distributes acicular α′ phase in heat-treatment state. The tensile strength, yield strength, and microhardness are significantly improved. This strengthening effect can be attributed to grain refinement and increase in dislocation density induced by heat treatment. Furthermore, the heat-treated Ti–50Zr exhibits lower corrosion current density and higher passive film resistance, suggesting a notable improvement in corrosion resistance. The primary mechanism of enhanced corrosion resistance is that heat treatment facilitates the formation of a thick and uniform passive film, enhanced the homogeneous distribution of Ti and Zr elements, which enhanced the structural integrity and compactness of the passive film. This work provides a useful reference for the development of high-strength and corrosion-resistant titanium alloys
Neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin and fibrinogen-to-albumin ratio are indicators of kidney disease in sickle cell disease patients with microalbuminuria: A multicentre case-control study in Ghana
No full textBackground: Neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) is present in secondary granules of neutrophils and it is a relatively newly recognized marker of kidney diseases. The fibrinogen-to-albumin ratio (FAR) is a marker of inflammation but its diagnostic value has not been determined in sickle cell disease patients with kidney diseases. This study investigated the diagnostic roles of serum neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (sNGAL) and FAR for kidney diseases in steady-state adult sickle cell disease (SCD) patients. Methods: This study employed a prospective case-control design and recruited 104 SCD participants and 80 non-SCD patients. Participants’ information was thoroughly documented using a structured questionnaire and patient case records. To evaluate the hematobiochemical parameters, 5 ml of venous blood was drawn from each participant and a clean catch of midstream urine was collected from each participant. The cases and controls were further categorized into microalbuminuria and non-microalbuminuria subjects, following three consecutive urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) measurements. Results: The prevalence of microalbuminuria was 32.7% among adult steady-state SCD patients. Significant higher levels of sNGAL and FAR were detected in SCD patients with microalbuminuria than in SCD patients without microalbuminuria and controls (p \u3c 0.001). A moderate positive correlation was observed between sNGAL and UACR (r = 0.45, p = 0.007). A unit increase in sNGAL (cOR: 3.25 (2.11-5.00); p \u3c 0.001), aOR: 3.35(2.09–5.36); p \u3c 0.0001)) and FAR (Log cOR: 12.26 (1.82–25.09); p = 0.022) were significantly associated with increased odds of kidney disease among SCD participants. sNGAL emerged as a highly early predictive marker for kidney disease in SCD patients, with a cutoff value of \u3e 5.72 µg/L yielding a high area under the curve (AUC = 0.854, p \u3c 0.0001). sNGAL also demonstrated an excellent sensitivity (91.2%) and moderate specificity (74.7%). The FAR at a cutoff of \u3e 0.09 also demonstrated significant predictive value (AUC = 0.630, p = 0.009) for kidney disease in SCD patients, with a moderate sensitivity (67.6%) and specificity (61.3%). Conclusion: Based on our findings, sNGAL could serve as an independent early predictor of kidney disease compared with urea and creatinine. Additionally, the fibrinogen-to-albumin ratio can be used as inflammatory marker for kidney diseases in SCD patients. Clinical trial number: Not applicable
Post-anthropocene provocations: Human-sized scholars’ rocks, Cronenbergian flesh caves and zen garden design cues for a future proof re(image)ining
No full textThis research explores concertinaing past, present and future interventional creative and pedagogical practices to address the challenges of the Post-Anthropocene era. We argue that the Post-Anthropocene is marked by biotechnological entanglements, environmental violence and digital overstimulation. The discussions herein critique a hyperattentive achievement society characterised by a scattering of attention, a near-constant screen-mediated stream of digital material and tasks and the commodification of leisure time. Enlisting Byung-Chul Han’s concept of hyperattention and themes and motifs from David Cronenberg’s films, the authors propose “FUTURE PROOF re(image)ining” as a collaborative Cli-Fi narrative concept. The project reimagines objects from an initial art installation with a diffusion-based machine learning model. By drawing on a constellation of Taoist philosophical practices, Zen garden design, scholars’ rocks and Cronenbergian themes, the authors propose an exhibition featuring reimagined cave-like gongshi rock structures and objects. A triangulation of spaces for FUTURE PROOF participants to inhabit facilitates an unfolding contemplative-creative trajectory. The concept includes a sensory deprivation cave, a View-Master cave for focused stereoscopic image viewing and a haiku/soundscape cave to initiate experiences. FUTURE PROOF aims to promote deep contemplation, challenging some of the deleterious aspects of Western digital-algorithmic screen culture and cultivating relationality with an always more-than-human world
Zirconium-based amphoteric metal–organic framework membrane for blue energy harvesting
No full textSalination of solutions of salinity gradient releases large-scale clean and renewable energy, which can be directly and efficiently transformed into electrical energy using ion-selective nanofluidic channel membranes. However, conventional ion-selective membranes are typically either cation- or anion-selective. A pH-switchable system capable of dual cation and anion transport along with salt gradient energy harvesting properties has not been demonstrated in ion-selective membranes. Here, we constructed an amphoteric heterolayer metal–organic framework (MOF) membrane with subnanochannels modified with carboxylic and amino functional groups. The amphoteric MOF-composite membrane, AAO/aUiO-66-(COOH)2/UiO-66-NH2, exhibits pH-tuneable ion conduction and achieves osmotic energy conversion of 7.4 and 5.7 W/m2 in acidic and alkaline conditions, respectively, using a 50-fold salt gradient. For different anions but the same cation diffusion transport, the amphoteric membrane produces an outstanding I−/CO32− selectivity of ~4160 and an osmotic energy conversion of ~133.5 W/m2. The amphoteric membrane concept introduces a new pathway to explore the development of ion transport and separation technologies and their application in osmotic energy-conversion devices and flow batteries
Experiences, discourses and practices of patriarchy before and after change in cultural field: A case study of married Pakistani women in Perth, Australia
No full textPatriarchy is a pervasive reality that exists in the personal, societal, and political realms of life, universally. The question is not what should be done about it, but to explore how patriarchy is deeply entrenched in the basic and fundamental abode of human interaction, exploring how within family and marriage, power imbalances are created that benefit individuals adhering to patriarchal norms, whereas resisting, confronting, or challenging these values disqualify individuals for social and cultural rewards. This study examines the intricacies, variation, diversity of worldviews, experiences and practices surrounding the concept of patriarchy by presenting one group of married Pakistani women’s opinions and lived experiences, through in-depth qualitative interviews. The aims of this study are to explore, within this group of married Pakistani women’s experiences, perspectives, and worldviews about familial patriarchy, give agency to unheard voices, represent cultural narrative of gender roles both in Pakistani and Australian context, critically analyse any change or continuity in paternalistic dominance in interaction with a diverse Australian society, and investigate women’s own role in recreating patriarchal familial and marital structures. Drawing on multiple feminist and cultural theories, the thesis describes the phenomenon of Familial Patriarchy (FP) among one group of married Pakistani women in Western Australia. The study is based on the phenomenological approach, in which the method emphasises that individuals derive meaning and understanding from their lived experiences. In this context, the researcher and participants collaboratively create these meanings. The study presents a systematic literature review and a narrative literature review, focussing on familial patriarchy in the Pakistani context to provide a context for the study and for the development of the research questions.
Twenty-one interviews were conducted. After transcription, coding, and thematic analysis of data, five major themes were identified. These themes included 1) thick representations of women’s experiences, and perspectives about familial patriarchy and any changes, transformation and reorientation of cultural approaches, practices and values over time, 2) continuity in fundamental ii patriarchal values, and practices,3) the role of women in recreating patriarchal structures and norms, 4) cultural interpretation of patriarchal violence types, meaning of control, coercion and causes, 5) and women’s reflection on their experiences in the Pakistani cultural context.
The findings reveal several policy recommendations, including the need to understand immigrant women’s limited agency due to cultural and structural challenges, the need to emphasise the cultural contexts of performing gender roles, the need to intervene where cultural ways are used to control, coerce and abuse women, the need to facilitate integration of immigrant women in Australian society, the need to ease immigration, procedural and legal processes to increase participation in the Australian workforce, and the need to consolidate inter-ethnic relationships in a diverse Australian society. The findings also suggest the traditional masculine traits that justify violence against women should be transformed through educational and community awareness reforms. It is anticipated that the research with this group of married Pakistani women in Western Australia will advance current understandings of how patriarchy is deeply entrenched in married Pakistani women’s cultural field, and how policy and practices applied to Pakistani women can be adapted to meet their needs
If you’re doing this correctly, there is a cost: An exploration of the work–family trade-off of female academics in Australia
No full textPurpose: This paper aims to explore how the gendered structures and expectations of neoliberal academic institutions inform and shape work–family trade-off considerations for women academics in Australia. It also sheds light on how these negotiations, and at times, the ensuing career or family gap, are experienced. In doing so, the paper deepens our understanding of the systematic barriers which do not only lead to gender inequalities in academia but also have broader individual and social implications. Design/methodology/approach: This exploratory study is based on qualitative semi-structured interviews, which were thematically analysed to identify how female academics navigate the expectations associated with the ideal academic norm and their domestic family role while working in the gendered structures of Australian academia. Findings: This study brings to the fore the significantly different career and family experiences of male and female academics in Australia. Male academics tended to progress autonomously, whereas women often made work–family trade-offs, including delaying or foregoing children and reported experiencing relationship strains. While the flexibility of academic work facilitated meeting family demands it also reduced personal time and rest and recovery. Practical implications: An increase in the number of senior female academics is often considered an indication of increased gender equity in universities, but this metric does not acknowledge that career progression can come at a significant personal cost for some women. This study suggests that the careers of some women in academia may only be sustainable because of their personal work–family trade-offs or external support structures, through which they essentially conform to, rather than challenge, the gendered structures of academia. As such, it is important that these narratives and experiences are explored and recognised and ultimately lead to broader structural changes to drive more equitable outcomes. Originality/value: While research exploring the career gap in academia is ample, the potential family gap for women academics has been largely ignored. As such, this paper makes an important contribution to contemporary knowledge on the work–family negotiations of women in Australian academia
Lifesaving cardiopulmonary resuscitation: A pilot evaluation of a targeted educational intervention to improve cardiopulmonary resuscitation provision in volunteer surf lifesavers
No full textBackground: Approximately 26,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occur in Australia each year, and only 13% of patients survive their event and return home. Survival variability from out-of-hospital cardiac arrests can be explained by a range of factors. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) education quality-improvement programs focusing on identified elements of basic life support provision in concert with resuscitation system interventions have been associated with significant improvements in survival after cardiac arrest. Surf Life Saving Australia members respond to approximately 65 cardiac arrests per year in the community while on duty and have successfully resuscitated many beachgoers over the years. In addition to this, members frequently respond to cardiac arrest events in community settings as first responders. Objective: The objective of this research was to measure CPR improvements in Australian surf lifesavers after a targeted education intervention. Methods: Recruiting Australian surf lifesavers, we conducted a multicenter before-and-after educational intervention, consisting of theory and practical CPR instruction with quantitative measurement, cohort study of those who had previously been trained in CPR. Results: Statistically significant improvements in quality of CPR by laypersons were observed as measured by the chest compression fraction, depth, and release, as well as a reduction in time off the chest, improved ventilation, and a reduction in the longest pause during 2 min of CPR. Conclusions: This study was the first to evaluate the impact of a targeted CPR quality-improvement educational initiative on a sample of volunteer CPR providers from a large national first responder organization. The results showed that focused education using evidence-based interventions supports substantial improvement in most CPR metrics measured. A targeted education intervention has the potential to improve laypersons CPR performance. The results should prompt community CPR training providers to evaluate the quality of CPR being provided by the staff members they train and consider implementing a quality-improvement program if results are below the desired thresholds
Sustainable utilisation of mining waste in road construction: A review
No full textMining by-products present both an environmental challenge and a resource opportunity. This review investigates their potential application in road pavement construction, focusing on materials such as fly ash, slag, sulphur, red mud, tailings, and silica fume. Drawing from laboratory and field studies, the review examines their roles across pavement layers—subgrade, base, subbase, asphalt mixtures, and rigid pavements—emphasising mechanical properties, durability, moisture resistance, and ageing performance. When properly processed or stabilised, many of these wastes meet or exceed conventional performance standards, contributing to reduced use of virgin materials and greenhouse gas emissions. However, issues such as variability in composition, leaching risks, and a lack of standardised design protocols remain barriers to adoption. This review aims to consolidate current research, evaluate practical feasibility, and identify directions for future studies that would enable the responsible and effective reuse of mining waste in transportation infrastructure