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Microgel-based bioink for extrusion-based 3D bioprinting and its applications in tissue engineering
No full textExtrusion-based 3D bioprinting is being increasingly adopted as a versatile biofabrication method for making biomimetic constructs in tissue engineering. However, the lack of ideal bioinks continues to limit its broader application. Conventional hydrogel-based bioinks typically possess a densely crosslinked nanoporous structure that hinders their ability to fully support cell behavior. Microgel-based bioinks have recently emerged as a promising alternative due to their enhanced printability and functionality. This review will begin with the evolution of the “bioink" concept, followed by a discussion on bioink categories and the requirements of ideal bioinks. It will then introduce hydrogel-based bioinks and their limitations, followed by a definition of microgels and microgel-based bioinks and a discussion of their key properties, highlighting their differences compared to conventional hydrogel-based bioinks. Topics on microgel-based bioinks are then presented in order of the printing process: pre-printing (fabrication of microgels and formulation of microgel-based bioinks), during printing and post-printing (microgel assembly kinetics). Uniquely, this review will examine the various applications of microgel-based bioinks in tissue engineering, summarizing their advantages and limitations. Finally, the current challenges and future perspectives of using microgel-based bioinks are discussed. This review comprehensively examines microgel-based bioinks for 3D bioprinting, highlighting their potential to overcome current challenges and setting the stage for their future applications in creating complex, functional tissue engineering scaffolds. © 2025 The Author
AI-enabled crime intelligence extraction: enhancing law enforcement capabilities through deep and dark web analysis and data correlation
No full textThe emergence of anonymity services and the dark web presents a complex landscape where user privacy must be balanced with the need to combat illicit activities. To address this challenge, a Python-based dark web-watching crawler was developed using the Tor network to gather and store a large volume of dark website addresses. This system leverages the Scrapy framework for web crawling to extract specific crime-related information from dark websites, which is then stored in a MongoDB database for analysis. The crawler algorithms analyze the collected data to identify patterns of criminal behavior, and the results are visualized using word cloud diagrams and histograms to create an intuitive interface for real-time monitoring of dark web crimes. This monitoring system aims to enhance law enforcement's ability to detect and respond to illegal activities on the dark web, contributing to efforts to combat human trafficking, illegal information transactions, and the sale of drugs and firearms. The development of this system underscores the importance of leveraging technology to address the dual challenges of user privacy and criminal activity in anonymous online environments. Several machine learning models such as Naive Bayes, decision tree, logistic regression, random forest, KNN were tried for classifying the data from legitimate and dark net websites. Highest accuracy 99% was obtained with Random Forest algorithm. © The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 2025
Joint deep reinforcement learning strategy in MEC for smart internet of vehicles edge computing networks
No full textThe Internet of Vehicles (IoV) has a limited computing capacity, making processing computation tasks challenging. These vehicular services are updated through communication and computing platforms. Edge computing is deployed closest to the terminals to extend the cloud computing facilities. However, the limitation of the vehicular edge nodes, satisfying the Quality of Experience (QoE) is the challenge. This paper developed an imaginative IoV scenario supported by mobile edge computing (MEC) by constructing collaborative processes such as task offloading decisions and resource allocation in various roadside units (RSU) environments that cover multiple vehicles. After that, Deep reinforcement Learning (DRL) is employed to solve the joint optimisation issue. Based on this joint optimisation model, the offloading decisions and resource allocations are gained to reduce the cost obtained in end-to-end delay and expense of resource computation. This problem is formulated based on the Markov Decision Process (MDP) designed functions like state, action, and reward. The proposed model's performance evaluations and numerical results achieve less average delay for 30 vehicle nodes in simulation. © 2025 Elsevier Inc
Aging away from home : a cultural context and workforce challenges for African Australians; the necessity for an ‘Afrocentric’ care model in Australia
No full textThis perspective examines the emerging African Australian older adult group, a minority group within a minority and the need for an Afrocentric-oriented workforce. It discusses aging and support systems within a traditional African setting, contrasted to the solitary state of the aging African Australian diaspora, while highlighting the presence of a CALD workforce ready to support their older adults. Intergenerational coresidency, a cultural practice common in African family structures, like Asian communities, are shared. The values of respect, communal existence, filial responsibilities, and the need for connections to kin by older adults are explored. The challenges facing older adult parents left behind in Africa, while their children search for better opportunities abroad, need addressing. Protracted issues of limited participation in the workforce earlier in life, and its subsequent impact on the individual’s later life, have profound financial impact on them. In conclusion, gaps in the workforce to meet the needs of an older adult minority group are sought. A proposed Afrocentric workforce framework to provide assistance to older adults is examined and proposed. Copyright © 2025 Watts
Exploring cultural influences on osteoporosis preventive health behaviours: a phenomenological study investigating older Indian immigrants in Australia
No full textAustralia's population is ageing, with about 16% of people now aged 65 or older. A significant proportion of this group comprises of people born overseas, including many Indian immigrants. Over the years, a growing number of Indian immigrants have settled in Australia through various migration waves, particularly during the late 20th century. They bring unique cultural, social, and health-related experiences that influence their approach to preventive healthcare. Despite their increasing presence, there is still a significant gap in research addressing their health needs, especially regarding osteoporosis prevention in Australia. Osteoporosis poses a serious risk for older adults, as it weakens bones and heightens the likelihood of fractures, which can lead to long-term health issues and a diminished quality of life. Preventing osteoporosis requires adopting healthy behaviours, such as consuming a calcium-rich diet, ensuring adequate vitamin D intake, participating in weight-bearing exercises, and having regular health check-ups. However, for older Indian immigrants, cultural beliefs, traditional health practices, and experiences related to migration can influence their understanding and approach to these preventive strategies. Consequently, their health-related decisions are made within a framework shaped by their cultural values and personal journeys. Despite the critical nature of osteoporosis prevention, there is limited research focused on the health behaviours of older Indian immigrants. It is essential to explore their lived experiences to better understand the cultural and psychosocial factors that influence osteoporosis prevention among this group in Australia. This study investigated the real-life experiences of older Indian immigrants concerning osteoporosis prevention and management using van Manen’s hermeneutic phenomenology as its guiding interpretive methodology. By capturing their viewpoints, the research offered valuable insights that can assist healthcare providers in delivering more effective and culturally sensitive care. Ethical guidelines have been strictly followed throughout the different stages of the study to ensure participants’ privacy and well-being. Ultimately, the findings from this study have the potential to inform culturally appropriate health strategies that empower older Indian immigrants to take better care of their bone health, leading to healthier and more independent ageing experiences.Doctor of Philosoph
'It's only a matter of time' - Lessons learnt and recommendations from COVID-19 to inform emergency nursing for future pandemics : an integrated literature review
No full textPurpose: In the recovery phase of COVID-19 disaster management, Emergency Department (ED) nurses are attempting to return to normal workforce operations, despite significant impacts on personal and professional lives. This review aims to examine and synthesise current literature for the learnings and recommendations from the lived experiences of ED nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Procedures: Electronic databases CINAHL Complete, Web of Science, Scopus (Elsevier) and PubMed were utilised using a 5-year timeframe that aligned with COVID-19 in Australia. Final date of accepted papers was 28th February 2024. A JBI Mixed Methods Convergent Integrated Approach was used. Findings: A total of 15 studies were included in the final review, representing seven countries of origin and included 649 ED nurses. Seven major themes related to learnings and recommendations were generated from data synthesis including (1) professional identity, (2) wellbeing support, (3) camaraderie, (4) effective communication, (5) working conditions and professional boundaries, (6) education and training, and (7) external support. Conclusion: With the likelihood of future epidemic and pandemic events globally, it is vital to explore and collate evidence on the learnings and recommendations from ED during the COVID-19 pandemic to continue to build a sustainable, resilient, and supported workforce. © 2024 The Author
Mental health of older latin-american immigrants : an integrative review
No full textThis review examines the current literature on mental health in older Latin-American immigrants. This review was guided by Whittemore and Knafl’s (2005) methodology and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). Nine electronic databases were systematically searched: Academic Search Alumni Edition, Academic Search Complete, APA PsycArticles, APA PsycINFO, CINAHL Complete, MEDLINE, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, to identify original research published within a 50-year-period. The search was restricted to peer-reviewed, primary research published in Spanish, Portuguese, or English and focused on the mental health of older Latin-American immigrants aged 60 years or above. Twenty-four peer-reviewed studies, 23 from the USA and 1 from Australia, were included and analyzed. Content analysis revealed four essential themes in older Latin-American immigrants: depressive symptoms, different coping mechanisms, cognitive status, English proficiency, and mental health. In all studies, detrimental outcomes for the mental health of older Latin-American immigrants were reported. There are notable psychosocial factors that represent and outline the complexity of mental health in older Latin-American immigrants. High-quality research using different methodologies and conducted in countries with populations of Latin-American immigrants beyond the USA is strongly recommended. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature B.V. 2024
Novel biofuels derivation and characterisation from macadamia integrifolia, undaria pinnatifida and tree mulch via advanced pyrolysis
No full textPrice hikes, stringent emission regulations and the global demand for sustainable energy use have forced fuel researchers and vehicle manufacturers to explore sustainable fuels for internal combustion engines. In recent years, the exploration of waste-to-energy (WtE) derivations has attracted increasing interest. This study explored the derivation of pyrolysis oil from three waste biomasses: waste macadamia nutshell (WMN; macadamia integrifolia), waste tree mulch (WTM) and waste marine biomass (WMB; Undaria pinnatifida). The waste biomass-derived pyrolysis oils were characterised by key fuel properties with a target to recommend them for use as fuels in internal combustion engines. Simultaneous and detailed characterisation of three unique biomass-derived oils has not been widely examined and reported earlier in the literature. All tested properties of the three waste biomass-derived oils were compared with those of the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), European (EN), Australian diesel and EN biodiesel standards. The properties of the three oils were aligned with diesel and biodiesel fuel standards. Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) data indicate that all three pyrolysis oils contain aliphatic (alkanes and alkenes) and aromatic (mono-, di- and polyaromatic) compounds. Among the three biomasses, a maximum of 53% bio-oil was produced with WTM, followed by 52% with MNS and 44% with WMB. The cetane index, density, viscosity and boiling range of the three pyrolysis oils were comparable to those of traditional diesel fuel and EN biodiesel standards. It is interesting to note that the bio-oil from WTM showed the highest cetane index of 55 among all the tested fuels and biodiesel and diesel standards. However, the other properties, including sulphur, carbon and ash content, indicate that the oils need upgradation before they can be used as a replacement for diesel fuel in internal combustion engines. Copyright © 2025 Md Nurun Nabi et al. International Journal of Energy Research published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd
Improving inclusion on the bus : the better transport inclusivity for all passengers (better trip) project
No full textTransport inaccessibility prevents many disabled people from mobilising in their communities (Duri & Luke, 2022), which restricts their experience of autonomy (Asplund et al., 2012) and belonging (Fallov et al., 2013). Whilst physical transport barriers are well known, attitudinal and communicative barriers to bus use have not been adequately explored (Bigby et al., 2019). Disabled passengers have reported having been driven past, ignored and denied access to the support they had needed as well as having been rudely addressed by bus drivers (Park & Chowdhury, 2018; Risser et al., 2012; Stjernborg, 2019). Such actions led to these passengers suffering injuries, escalated transport anxiety, an erosion of self-worth and reduced community access (Das Neves et al., 2023). The Better Transport Inclusivity for All Passengers (Better Trip) Project, across four studies, sought to improve bus driver attitudes, behaviour and communication methods in their encounters with disabled passengers. Mixed-methods cross-sectional surveys, focus groups and interviews were used to first explore the experiences of disabled passengers with bus drivers and then the bus drivers’ identified barriers to assisting passengers. Both disabled passengers and bus drivers identified a need to improve bus driver training on understanding and engaging with disabled passengers. Drawing from their recommendations, a prototype educational training program for bus drivers was then co-designed by researchers, people with lived experience of disability and bus drivers, where an original InCLUSIVE co-design approach (ICDA) was applied. Lived experience being the central element in the design of bus driver training ensures disabled people and bus drivers can work together to create a more inclusive and accessible bus experience for all.Doctor of Philosoph
Global, regional, and national prevalence of adult overweight and obesity, 1990–2021, with forecasts to 2050 : a forecasting study for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021
No full textBackground: Overweight and obesity is a global epidemic. Forecasting future trajectories of the epidemic is crucial for providing an evidence base for policy change. In this study, we examine the historical trends of the global, regional, and national prevalence of adult overweight and obesity from 1990 to 2021 and forecast the future trajectories to 2050. Methods: Leveraging established methodology from the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study, we estimated the prevalence of overweight and obesity among individuals aged 25 years and older by age and sex for 204 countries and territories from 1990 to 2050. Retrospective and current prevalence trends were derived based on both self-reported and measured anthropometric data extracted from 1350 unique sources, which include survey microdata and reports, as well as published literature. Specific adjustment was applied to correct for self-report bias. Spatiotemporal Gaussian process regression models were used to synthesise data, leveraging both spatial and temporal correlation in epidemiological trends, to optimise the comparability of results across time and geographies. To generate forecast estimates, we used forecasts of the Socio-demographic Index and temporal correlation patterns presented as annualised rate of change to inform future trajectories. We considered a reference scenario assuming the continuation of historical trends. Findings: Rates of overweight and obesity increased at the global and regional levels, and in all nations, between 1990 and 2021. In 2021, an estimated 1·00 billion (95% uncertainty interval [UI] 0·989–1·01) adult males and 1·11 billion (1·10–1·12) adult females had overweight and obesity. China had the largest population of adults with overweight and obesity (402 million [397–407] individuals), followed by India (180 million [167–194]) and the USA (172 million [169–174]). The highest age-standardised prevalence of overweight and obesity was observed in countries in Oceania and north Africa and the Middle East, with many of these countries reporting prevalence of more than 80% in adults. Compared with 1990, the global prevalence of obesity had increased by 155·1% (149·8–160·3) in males and 104·9% (95% UI 100·9–108·8) in females. The most rapid rise in obesity prevalence was observed in the north Africa and the Middle East super-region, where age-standardised prevalence rates in males more than tripled and in females more than doubled. Assuming the continuation of historical trends, by 2050, we forecast that the total number of adults living with overweight and obesity will reach 3·80 billion (95% UI 3·39–4·04), over half of the likely global adult population at that time. While China, India, and the USA will continue to constitute a large proportion of the global population with overweight and obesity, the number in the sub-Saharan Africa super-region is forecasted to increase by 254·8% (234·4–269·5). In Nigeria specifically, the number of adults with overweight and obesity is forecasted to rise to 141 million (121–162) by 2050, making it the country with the fourth-largest population with overweight and obesity. Interpretation: No country to date has successfully curbed the rising rates of adult overweight and obesity. Without immediate and effective intervention, overweight and obesity will continue to increase globally. Particularly in Asia and Africa, driven by growing populations, the number of individuals with overweight and obesity is forecast to rise substantially. These regions will face a considerable increase in obesity-related disease burden. Merely acknowledging obesity as a global health issue would be negligent on the part of global health and public health practitioners; more aggressive and targeted measures are required to address this crisis, as obesity is one of the foremost avertible risks to health now and in the future and poses an unparalleled threat of premature disease and death at local, national, and global levels. Funding: Bill & Melinda Gates Foundat on. © 2025 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Ltd. This is an Open Access article under the CC BY 4.0 license. **Please note that there are multiple authors for this article therefore only the name of the first 30 including Federation University Australia affiliates “Sheikh Alif and Muhammad Aziz Rahman" are provided in this record*