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Promoted hydroxylation on synergistic Ru single atom/cluster enables PET upcycling at industrial-level current densities
No full textElectrochemical upgrading of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) into valuable chemicals represents an ideal solution to achieve sustainable resource reutilization and address plastic pollution, yet encounters an arduous challenge due to unsatisfactory catalytic activity and stability of existing electrocatalysts at high current densities. Herein, an integrated electrocatalyst is fabricated by incorporating cooperatively Ru single atom (RuSA) and nanocluster (RuNC) sites on Ni(OH)2 nanosheets (termed as RuSA,NC/Ni(OH)2), which enables efficient and selective conversion of PET into formate. Thanks to favorable adsorption capability toward EG and OHads species, promoted hydroxylation and subsequent hydroxyl radicals generation caused by synergistic RuSA and RuNC sites, and effective electronic structure modulation, the proposed RuSA,NC/Ni(OH)2 catalyst exhibits superior ethylene glycol (EG) electro-oxidation performance, with a Faradaic efficiency of 94.3 % for formate production at an industry-level current density exceeding 1 A/cm2 (1.4 V vs. RHE), outperforming most reported electrocatalysts. Further, a two-electrode flow electrolyzer system with RuSA,NC/Ni(OH)2 catalyst enables successive upcycling of PET hydrolysate into formate and simultaneous hydrogen generation, sustaining stable operation at 1.6 V for 150 h. The collective advantages in superior catalytic activity, selectivity and durability coupled with practical applicability render the proposed catalyst with huge prospect in sustainable plastic waste valorization.No Full Tex
A framework for addressing racial and related inequities in conservation
No full textIn 2020, a global surge of activism linked to the Black Lives Matter movement prompted scientists to stage an academic ‘strike’, drawing attention to the ethical responsibility of addressing systemic racism. This catalysed debate in conservation, adding urgency to decades of scholarship on marginalization. In this Perspective, we review this literature and examine how exclusion in conservation persists across intersections of race, class, urban–rural divides, nationality and power dynamics from local to global levels. We highlight how marginalization and ‘othering’ disproportionately affect Black, Indigenous and people of colour (BIPOC) communities, especially in the Global South. Expansion of protected areas and the prioritization of individual animal lives over human well-being can intensify such inequities. We propose a framework for more inclusive conservation: recognizing and supporting human rights, ensuring local community agency, challenging entrenched norms in BIPOC engagement, and fostering educational opportunities led by and for BIPOC communities. Amid shifting global politics, including reduced US federal support for social and conservation issues, this framework provides guidance to counter racism and exclusion. By rethinking conservation practice, it seeks to build long-lasting, equitable and inclusive approaches that respect both people and nature.No Full Tex
A methodological journey: amplifying the voices of Indigenous students in gifted education programs through Yarning, Dadirri and Ganma using participatory action research
No full textSetting an appropriate research design is crucial for honouring and respecting Indigenous Australian knowledge and culture. Shifting from colonialist paradigms, this study embraced methodologies grounded in Indigenous ways of knowing, being and doing, thereby creating spaces for Indigenous perspectives and voices to be meaningfully integrated. This study aimed to learn from and with young Indigenous students regarding their experiences with gifted education programs. To connect with their lived experiences, Yarning (storying), Dadirri (deep listening) and Ganma (knowledge sharing) were used alongside Participatory Action Research (PAR), forming a cyclical process that foregrounded student voice. Each participant was involved as a co-researcher—an Indigenous knowledge holder and co-creator of the emerging knowledges stemming from the PAR approach. Informed by Critical Race Theory (CRT) and Indigenous Standpoint Theory (IST), this study draws on the knowledges of young Indigenous students when coming together at the cultural interface. Through careful consideration given to relationship building, critical reflexivity and ongoing negotiation, this methodological approach offered valuable opportunities for Indigenous students to drive the research process. Importantly, this paper foregrounds student reflections on the research journey itself, with these insights becoming vital sources of knowledge.No Full Tex
Large-scale investigation confirms TRPM3 ion channel dysfunction in Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Get PDFIntroduction: Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) is a chronic disease hallmarked by multiple systemic symptoms, such as neurocognitive, respiratory, immunological, gastrointestinal, and cardiovascular impairment, which worsen following physical and mental exertion. ME/CFS is characterized by an elusive pathomechanism, profound impact on quality of life, and an absence of diagnostic tests or evidence-based treatments. Transient Receptor Potential Melastatin 3 (TRPM3) ion channel has been suggested as a potential biomarker and target for therapeutics in people with ME/CFS, supported by a series of publications reporting genetic and protein changes. This study aimed to undertake a multi-site, large-scale investigation to determine the consistency of TRPM3 ion channel dysfunction in people with ME/CFS.
Methods: TRPM3 ion channel activity was assessed in two distinct laboratory sites by independent investigators using whole-cell patch-clamp recordings performed in isolated natural killer (NK) cells from 36 ME/CFS participants, characterized according to the Canadian Consensus Criteria, and 42 healthy controls. The Mann–Whitney U test was used to compare endogenous TRPM3-like currents between cohorts. The effect of location was determined using a covariance analysis, while antagonist sensitivity was determined using Fisher’s Exact test.
Results: Electrophysiological experiments revealed a significant reduction in TRPM3 function in NK cells from individuals diagnosed with ME/CFS compared with controls in all parameters analyzed. Importantly, there was no significant effect of the laboratory sites on the results of this investigation, which confirms TRPM3 as a consistent biomarker for ME/CFS.
Conclusion: The current large-sample-size study confirmed previous results regarding TRPM3 ion channel dysfunction in NK cells in ME/CFS, demonstrating involvement of TRPM3 in the pathomechanism of this condition. Therefore, this multiple-site investigation offers strong evidence demonstrating TRPM3 as a potential biomarker for the diagnosis of ME/CFS, given the accumulating evidence.Full Tex
Balance Confidence Is Related to Walking Parameters in Different Outdoor Environments in Older Adults
No full textIntroduction: Perceived balance confidence may influence stability of gait among older adults and be pronounced in varied environments. This cross-sectional study investigated associations between balance confidence and outdoor walking parameters in various environments as well as differences in these parameters among older adults with varying levels of balance confidence. Methods: Older adults (N = 39, women 67%, mean age 76) walked outdoors on level, uphill, and downhill with their self-selected normal speed. Walking parameters (stride, stance, and swing durations and cadence) and their variance were assessed using inertial measurement units on the lower back and shanks. Balance confidence was evaluated using the activities-specific balance confidence scale (ABC). Additionally, physical activity, self-rated health, falls in past year, anthropometrics, walking speed on level, short physical performance test (SPPB), and Timed Up and Go (TUG) were recorded. Results: Balance confidence positively correlated with cadence on level (rs = 0.439, p = 0.005) and uphill (rs = 0.336, p = 0.049), negatively with cadence variability downhill (rs = −0.424, p = 0.007) and stride duration on level (rs = −0.436, p = 0.006) and uphill (rs = −0.335, p = 0.049). The high balance confidence group (ABC ≥80, n = 32) had 7–8% higher cadence in all environments, 7–8% shorter stride duration uphill and downhill, walked 0.14 m/s faster on level and showed less variability in walking parameters uphill compared to the lower balance confidence group (ABC <80, n = 7). Conclusion: In older adults, differences in walking parameters can be seen when using the balance confidence as a differentiating factor. Self-rated balance confidence combined with an uphill walking test may give an indication of varying walking patterns in older adults.No Full Tex
Network building HR practices under different capitalisms
No full textThere has been growing interest in the role of interpersonal ties within and between organizations. This paper explores why firms adopt formal, organization-led practices that have built into them the promotion of ties between employees. The latter would include organizationally promoted networking (OPN), teamworking, mentoring, and development centres; we assess how their usage varies across different varieties of capitalism. We situate our study at the intersection of HRM and comparative institutional analysis, arguing that national institutional frameworks influence whether and how firms deploy internal mechanisms to foster employee development through relationship building. Using data from over 4,800 organizations across 27 countries, we find that HR practices that deepen ties between employees are more prevalent in coordinated market economies (CMEs) than in liberal market economies (LMEs), and least common in peripheral economies (MMEs and EMEs). These findings contribute to the literature by highlighting how institutional contexts shape firm-level networking building practices, accordingly extending both the varieties of capitalism and international HRM literatures.No Full Tex
Three-dimensional digital reconstruction techniques for ex-situ structural complexity-dependent ecological research
No full textMangrove forests are integral components of tropical coastal ecosystems that provide numerous functions and services, which are derived from the three-dimensional structural complexity of the mangrove trees. However, experimental research regarding these functions have been limited by using simplistic replicas that bear little resemblance to true mangrove structures. Recently, improvements to 3D scanning technology have allowed quality reconstruction of complicated structures that makes realistic quantitative assessments possible. This study demonstrates the contrasting abilities of three technologies to scan mangrove structures of varying complexities at meter-scale. These tools, widely different in cost and usual application, utilize unique mechanisms for obtaining 3D objects: depth sensor in Microsoft Kinect, structure from motion photogrammetry, and lidar in GeoSLAM ZEB Revo RT. Each 3D scanning technique was able to reproduce digital models with relative accuracy and precision, albeit with individual strengths and limitations. Although Kinect remains as a reliable 3D scanner, the bulk of its accessories and sensitivity to sunlight hampered its use in routine field scanning. Photogrammetry reconstructed the most accurate mangrove tree structures, but was unable to reconstruct much of dense canopies and thin aerial roots that are characteristic of some species. ZEB Revo did not capture fine details essential in meter-scale mangrove tree structures, although its rapid and large-scale scanning capabilities make it valuable in mapping forest complexity and allows estimation of system attributes, e.g., blue carbon stock, at the forest scale. The potential for future applications of 3D printed mangrove models, especially in studying habitat use and animal behavior, was discussed.No Full Tex
Urbanization, mental health, and oral health inequalities in left-behind youth: a systematic review and meta-analysis
No full textPURPOSE OF REVIEW: This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated mental and oral health outcomes among left-behind children (LBC) affected by urbanization-driven rural-urban labour migration. Although mental health impacts of parental migration are increasingly recognized, oral health outcomes remain underexplored. This review synthesizes available evidence, quantifies disparities, and identifies shared social and structural determinants. RECENT FINDINGS: Thirty-three studies met inclusion criteria. Pooled analyses revealed significantly higher depressive symptoms among LBC compared to non-LBC peers [standardized mean difference (SMD) = 0.16, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.03-0.29], with increased risk of elevated depressive symptoms [odds ratio (OR) = 1.36, 95% CI: 1.01-1.83]. LBC also experienced higher rates of permanent tooth caries (SMD = 0.15, 95% CI: 0.05-0.25) and were less likely to attend dental care in the past year (OR = 0.80, 95% CI: 0.67-0.94). Greater distress was observed in cases of shorter parental separation and when both parents had migrated. Factors such as caregiver education, quality of parent-child communication, and school climate consistently influenced outcomes across both mental and oral health domains. SUMMARY: LBC experience a dual burden of psychological distress and unmet dental need, reflecting the effects of urbanization-related parental migration. These disparities are shaped by caregiving discontinuity, reduced access to preventive services, and socio-environmental stressors. Findings highlight the need for integrated responses, including caregiver training, school-based prevention, and equitable health entitlements. Addressing shared determinants across mental and oral health domains offers a feasible path toward improved outcomes and greater equity. TRIAL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO ID: CRD420251152265.No Full Tex
Two-dimensional perovskites: From fundamental properties to photovoltaic applications
No full textTwo-dimensional (2D) perovskites have been widely studied due to their excellent stability and structural diversity. However, solution-processed 2D perovskites films generally exhibit random crystal orientations and phase distributions, inducing grain boundary defects and ion migration, while the incorporation of bulky organic spacers creates spontaneous quantum wells with large energy barriers that hinder carrier transport. Hence, an in-depth understanding of the fundamental properties, crystallization kinetics, optimized fabrication strategies of 2D perovskite films, and application of 2D/3D perovskite heterojunction is essential for developing high-performing 2D perovskites. This review begins by discussing the fundamental properties of 2D perovskites. We then review recent advances in 2D perovskites, focusing on orientation, phase, composition regulation, as well as fabrication technique, and summarize strategies to improve film quality. Furthermore, recent advances in 2D/3D heterojunctions are reviewed, emphasizing interface optimization, charge transport and stability and 2D perovskites-assisted crystallization. Finally, we highlight key challenges and opportunities for advancing 2D perovskites photovoltaics.No Full Tex
The relationship between impaired upper-body function, quality of life and breast cancer-related lymphoedema: results from a prospective, population-based cohort study
No full textPurpose: To describe upper-body function in women after breast cancer treatment; and to explore the relationship between upper-body function, quality of life and breast cancer- related lymphoedema up to 7-years post-diagnosis. Methods: This study uses data collected in a prospective, longitudinal, population-based, breast cancer cohort study. The Disability of Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire (short version -QuickDASH), the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Breast questionnaire (FACT-B) and self-report of a clinical diagnosis were used to assess upper-body function, quality of life and breast cancer-related lymphoedema, respectively, in 2,876 women with invasive breast cancer at three time points: baseline (up to 9 months post-diagnosis), and at 2- and 7-years post-diagnosis. Unadjusted cross-sectional relationships between outcomes of interest were tested at each time point. Unadjusted and adjusted regression analyses were used to explore the potential predictive relationship between upper-body function and lymphoedema. Results: Upper-body impairment was common up to 7-years post-diagnosis with > 60% of women reporting at least mild impairment and 23.8–25.6% reporting moderate to very severe impairment. Impaired upper-body function at baseline assessment was associated with poorer overall quality of life (mean (standard deviation) FACT-B for no versus mild impairment: 77.5 (11.8) versus 70.9 (12.1), p < 0.05) and increased odds of breast cancer-related lymphoedema at 2 and 7 years follow-up (moderate to severe upper-body function impairment at 2- and 7- years post-diagnosis: Odds Ratio (95% Confidence interval) 2.49 (1.57, 3.93) and 2.54 (1.51, 4.26), respectively). Conclusion: Future research evaluating whether prospective monitoring of upper-body function and interventions that can address impairment can reduce the risk of breast cancer-related lymphoedema are warranted.No Full Tex