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Crystallographic Insights into the Structural Heterogeneities of 2D Ruddlesden-Popper Perovskite Films
No full text2D Ruddlesden-Popper phase perovskites (RPPs) offer significant potential for next-generation photovoltaics owing to their excellent intrinsic stability. Fully understanding the crystalline configuration of 2D perovskite films is essential for further enhancing the power-conversion-efficiency (PCE) of 2D perovskite solar cells (2D-PSCs). Herein, the structural heterogeneities, including the profiles of crystal orientation and defect distribution, at both the microscopic and mesoscopic scales for 2D perovskite films are investigated. Empty voids are observed in the buried interface of 2D perovskite films associated with Brownian tree-shaped dendritic structures, and the crystal orientations of 2D RPPs in the upper and lower parts of these areas are mismatched. This configuration hinders charge carrier transport along the vertical direction and is likely responsible for the lower PCE of 2D-PSCs compared to their 3D counterparts. The formation mechanism of these voids and the crystalline mismatching are revealed based on compositional and structural analysis. The results suggest that synchronizing the rate of crystallization in different film areas may eliminate these voids and thereby reduce the PCE gap between 2D- and 3D-PSCs. This work provides a comprehensive understanding of the crystallographic heterogeneities of 2D perovskite films, highlighting new pathways to design more efficient 2D-PSCs based on 2D RPP films
The SpIRIT Payload Management System: A paradigm for smallsats multi payload integration
No full textThe increase of ambitions, capabilities and sophistication of small satellite missions highlights the need for efficient payload management to accelerate mission readiness and mitigate risks introduced by system complexities. In this paper we present the architecture for an adaptable instrument control unit designed to interconnect platform and payloads and simplify integration and operation processes. This aims to create a flexible environment for payload designers, enabling them to focus development time on their domain-specific objectives, while the instrument control unit handles the overarching integration, communication, and operational management. We demonstrate the concept of this novel Payload Management System (PMS) as implemented from design to operations in orbit in the SpIRIT nanosatellite mission, launched in December 2023. On SpIRIT, PMS efficiently handles electrical and electronic interfaces between the satellite platform and five diverse payloads developed by four independent stakeholders: a gamma and x-ray telescope, a thermal management system based on a Stirling cycle cooler, a Graphic Processing Unit based edge computing and multi-camera module, an electric propulsion thruster, and an S-band transceiver. The PMS electrical power distribution system includes a supercapacitor bank to supply emergency power to critical payloads. In-orbit performance of this novel functionality is presented and compared to ground tests. PMS contributed to an accelerated development cycle for the mission, and demonstrates the potential for such approach to be replicated in the growing number of nanosatellites equipped with multiple payloads
Learning Styles, Preferences, or Strategies? An Explanation for the Resurgence of Styles Across Many Meta-analyses
No full textAbstract
The persistence of learning styles as a concept in educational discourse and research is paradoxical, given the overwhelming evidence discrediting the matching hypothesis, the notion that aligning teaching methods with students’ preferred learning styles enhances achievement. This paper examines the resurgence of learning styles across meta-analyses and proposes an explanation for their enduring appeal. Drawing on 17 meta-analyses, we distinguish between studies testing the matching hypothesis (effect size
d
= .04) and correlational studies (average correlation
r
= .24), revealing that the latter often conflates learning styles with learning strategies. Much of the research is flawed, and the argument is that there needs to be a shift away from matching learning styles toward teaching students adaptable and effective learning strategies that align more closely with task complexity and learning goals
Systematic review and meta-analysis of family-based interventions for early psychosis: Carer and patient outcomes
No full textBACKGROUND: Previous reviews have indicated that family interventions in early psychosis are beneficial for patients and family caregivers. Given recent developments in research and service provision an updated review is warranted. METHODS: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of family intervention trials in the first 5 years after psychosis onset. We identified randomized controlled trials that reported outcomes for family members and extracted available outcomes in relation to identified patients. RESULTS: We screened 8737 abstracts and 177 full text papers, resulting in 36 for extraction. We found significant pooled treatment effects for family interventions for carer psychological distress (Hedges g = 0.35), carer burden (Hedges g = -0.68), positive and negative carer appraisals (Hedges g = 0.20, g = -0.21), and components of expressed emotion (critical comments and emotional overinvolement) compared with care as usual (Hedges g = -0.81, -0.92). For patients we found a moderate pooled effect for reduced rates of hospitalization compared with care as usual (Hedges g = -0.52). The effects for carer burden were maintained for studies in China, but not in other settings combined. The effects for hospitalization were maintained for multicomponent interventions but not when psychoeducation was the sole component. There was evidence of significant study heterogeneity. Risk of bias assessment indicated that deviations from intended treatment were most frequently rated as the weakest domain. CONCLUSIONS: Family interventions for early psychosis benefit both family carers and their relatives diagnosed with psychosis when compared with usual care. Future research should further clarify the effective components and investigate innovations in cultural sensitivity, peer support and digital modes
Supporting the expansion of tropical hardwood plantations on Aboriginal-owned lands across northern Australia through the development of options for wood processing methods and product development
No full text© 2025 Oluwatosin Esther FaladeAbstract
The growing global demand for sustainable, high-performance timber and engineered wood products has prompted increased interest in fast-growing plantation species. Eucalyptus pellita is a tropical hardwood native to Papua New Guinea and northern Australia. It is widely cultivated due to its rapid growth, adaptability to tropical climates, and suitability for pulpwood production. Interspecific hybridisation has been used to enhance traits like growth rate and disease resistance, making these hybrids promising candidates for tropical plantation forestry. However, the potential of E. pellita and its hybrids for high-value solid wood and structural products remains largely underexplored. These include sawn timber, veneers, and laminated veneer lumber (LVL). Most existing studies focus on growth and fibre characteristics for pulp production. There is limited data on wood properties relevant to structural performance, sawing, and veneering. Furthermore, little is known about processing recoveries, product quality, and the structural performance of end products. There is also a lack of integrated phenotypic and genetic analyses to identify traits influencing wood quality and suitability for product diversification. These knowledge gaps hinder efforts to maximise the value of E. pellita resources and limit the development of informed breeding and utilisation strategies.
This study aimed to understand the genetic and phenotypic relationship between growth traits and wood property traits of E. pellita and hybrids grown on the Tiwi Islands in northern Australia. Wood properties were assessed and characterised across genotypes. Shrinkage was measured at different moisture levels in the tangential and radial directions, while mechanical properties were tested at different longitudinal (bottom, middle, top) and radial (inner, outer) positions using a universal testing machine, following international standards. Wood recovery and resource quality were assessed through sawing and veneer peeling trials. As part of this study, options were developed for wood processing methods and product development. The specific objectives of this research were to:
Assess the wood properties of E. pellita and its hybrids;
Identify desirable and undesirable traits through phenotypic and genetic analysis;
Evaluate the recovery and quality of sawn and peeled products, as well as the performance of engineered wood prototypes derived from these materials.
To achieve these objectives, 10-year-old plantation trees were sampled from two sites: Kilu Impini 64, a high-productivity site, and Yapilika 28, a moderate-productivity site. A combination of physical and mechanical property testing, log conversion trials, and genetic association analysis was conducted. The study included E. pellita trees and hybrids from first-generation (F1) and backcrosses (BC) involving one parent species. Properties assessed included physical properties (density and shrinkage) and mechanical properties (modulus of elasticity (MOE), modulus of rupture (MOR), and compressive strength (CS), with mechanical properties measured radially and longitudinally. Phenotypic correlations were explored between wood properties, growth traits, and chemical and pulping properties. Genetic analysis was performed to identify single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers linked to key wood traits. Sawing and veneer trials were conducted to evaluate recovery rates and defect patterns. LVL panels were fabricated using hybrid veneers and tested for strength, stiffness, and bond quality.
Significant variation in shrinkage and density of E. pellita and its hybrids was observed, driven by both genetic background and site conditions. The impact of site was evident, as differences between the high-productivity and moderate-productivity sites influenced wood formation, contributing to the observed variation in shrinkage and density across genotypes. E. pellita x E. urophylla (F1) exhibited the most stable shrinkage behaviour among all genotype groups. Reconditioning reduced shrinkage, indicating improved dimensional stability. Basic density ranged from 527 to 651 kg/m3, with E. pellita x E. brassiana (BC) recording the highest values. Shrinkage traits were positively correlated with density and negatively correlated with growth traits, lignin content, and extractives. As expected, tangential shrinkage was consistently higher than radial shrinkage, reflecting wood anisotropy.
Mechanical properties varied across sites, genotypes, and wood positions. At high-productivity site, hybrid differences were not statistically significant. However, radial and longitudinal variations were observed. Outer and middle wood showed higher MOE, MOR, and CS values. In contrast, hybrid effects were evident at moderate-productivity site, with hybrids involving E. brassiana consistently showed superior mechanical performance. Several groups, at just 10 years, met Australian standards for stiffness, strength, and compression, highlighting their potential for early harvesting. Mechanical properties were influenced by both genetic background and log position, with outer stem zones yielding stiffer, stronger wood. These results reinforced the value of selecting specific hybrids and applying targeted processing strategies to produce high-performance timber at a young rotation age. Strong correlations between density, growth traits (height and diameter at breast height), and mechanical performance, together with key SNPs associated with these traits, highlighted opportunities for targeted genetic improvement in Eucalyptus breeding programs.
Processing trials revealed strong genotype and site effects on log quality, recovery, and defect patterns. At the high-productivity site, E. pellita x E. brassiana (F1) showed the highest sawn recovery, while limited log size at moderate-productivity site restricted processing. Veneer recovery was highest for E. pellita x E. brassiana (BC), and mature E. pellita yielded the highest veneer grade. Recovery was positively associated with log size and negatively with defect traits such as end split and taper. LVL combining hybrid core veneers with mature E. pellita faces demonstrated high bond quality and mechanical performance, reinforcing their potential for structural applications. Genome-wide association analyses identified SNPs linked to shrinkage, density, mechanical properties, and log traits, highlighting opportunities for marker-assisted improvement of processing and product outcomes.
These findings demonstrated the strong potential of Eucalyptus pellita and its hybrids for structural applications and value-added wood products. By integrating phenotypic assessment with molecular marker analysis, this study established a foundation for targeted breeding to improve dimensional stability, mechanical strength, and processing efficiency. The results also underscored the importance of genotype-by-environment interactions, showing how site productivity and log traits influenced wood quality and recovery outcomes. To optimise plantation performance, the deployment of superior hybrids should consider both genetic potential and site-specific factors. Future research should aim to validate SNP-trait associations in diverse populations and evaluate engineered wood products under commercial processing conditions, supporting broader adoption of improved genotypes across tropical hardwood plantation systems
Accuracy of Static Computer-Assisted Implant Placement in Narrow Ridge by Novice Clinicians
No full textThis study aimed to evaluate the accuracy and clinical impact of implant placement by novice implant clinicians in the narrow anterior ridge by fully guided (FG), pilot-guided (PG), and freehand (FH) placements.A maxillary surgical model with missing incisors and a narrow ridge was designed. Two implants were planned in the lateral incisor locations to receive screw-retained implant prosthesis. Fifteen novice implant clinicians placed implants according to every placement. Angle, vertical and horizontal platform, and horizontal apex deviations from the planned implant were measured. The clinical impact evaluation aimed to relate the position of each placed implant to (1) periimplant bone dimension after implant placement and (2) the prosthesis retention mechanism.The FG implants were more accurate than PG implants at the angle (p = 0.001) and maximum horizontal apex deviations (p = 0.001), and were more accurate than FH implants for all comparisons (p = 0.001). The PG implants were superior to FH implants at the maximal horizontal platform deviation (p = 0.001). All FG implants were fully covered with bone and could be restored with screw-retained prostheses. One PG implant (3.3%) had fenestration at the apex, and one PG implant (3.3%) could not be restored with screw-retained prosthesis. Seven FH implants (23.3%) had fenestration at the apex, and one FH implant (3.3%) suffered from dehiscence. Seven FH implants (23.3%) were not restorable with screw-retained prosthesis.For novice clinicians, a significantly greater accuracy was observed for FG placement, followed by PG and FH placements. FH implants experienced significant compromise of periimplant bone dimension and the prosthesis retention mechanism
Human alveolar echinococcosis–global, regional, and national annual incidence and prevalence rates
No full textBACKGROUND: Alveolar echinococcosis (AE) of humans is a disease caused by the larval (metacestode) stage of the 'fox tapeworm' Echinococcus multilocularis. AE primarily affects the liver and, like cancer, can spread to surrounding or distant organs. Its slow progression and resemblance to malignant tumours emphasise the critical importance of early detection and intervention, as there is no highly effective vaccine against AE. Although recognised as a neglected disease, there has been no recent, comprehensive review of the distribution, incidence and prevalence of AE in humans around the world. OBJECTIVES: To estimate the global, regional, and national annual incidence rates and prevalences of human AE in endemic countries. SOURCES: Incidence and prevalence data were obtained from published articles from 1980 to 2024, accessible via public databases. CONTENT: This article provides a brief background on E. multilocularis, its biology and impact; reviews the geographic distribution and incidence of AE; and gives a perspective on the prevention and control of this neglected disease in humans. IMPLICATIONS: The AE burden in humans is substantial and emphasises the need for enhanced public awareness, surveillance, prevention, and control, particularly in under-resourced communities to mitigate the health, economic, and psychological impact of AE
The mixed blessing of shifting responsibilities: Challenges for introducing compulsory elemental insurance in Germany
No full textFor a long time, Germany was largely spared from extreme weather events such as flooding. Severe flooding occurred only sporadically and at extended intervals. However, due to climate change, adjustments to more severe and frequent flooding are necessary. This was demonstrated by the Ahr Valley floods in 2021 and the southern German floods in 2024. In response, the introduction of compulsory elemental insurance has been repeatedly discussed to strengthen household resilience. However, the perspective of the (re-)insurance industry on necessary responses to extreme weather events is still underresearched. This study contributes to overcoming this deficit through an interview study with 27 (re-)insurance experts from Germany, exploring their views on the challenges associated with implementing mandatory elemental insurance. According to the experts, three central factors – risk awareness, accessing and understanding data and information, and adaptation measures – shape household resilience and, at the same time, challenge current responsibility distributions. However, shifting responsibility to the insurance industry and households can entail counterproductive effects on household resilience. Instead, more complex approaches involving different stakeholders could be more effective
Effects of Nut Intake on Gut Microbiome Composition and Gut Function in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
No full textThe reduced risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes associated with nut consumption may occur via modulation of the gut microbiota, although this has not been comprehensively assessed. This systematic review of clinical trials aimed to assess the effects of nuts on gut microbiota composition and metabolites, as well astheir effects on gut function and symptoms in adults. The systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines and registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023451282). Outcomes included microbiota diversity, specific bacterial abundances, gastrointestinal symptoms, intestinal permeability, fecal pH, fecal moisture, and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) concentrations. We performed meta-analyses to assess the overall effect of nuts on fecal moisture, pH, intestinal permeability, and SCFA concentrations. Among the 28 intervention trials included in this review, almonds were the most commonly studied (12 trials), whereas other nuts, such as walnuts, peanuts, pistachios, and Brazil nuts, were also examined. Nineteen articles reported the effects of almond, walnut, peanut, or mixed nuts on the microbiota composition. Additionally, 6 trials used interventions involving a mixture of different nuts. A total of 19 trials assessed the community structure of the gut microbiota by evaluating α-diversity and β-diversity metrics, with most finding no significant differences following the nut intervention. Regarding taxonomic changes, the majority of studies reported no significant changes across nut interventions. However, several studies noted increases in Clostridium and Roseburia species, with mixed results for Bifidobacterium species abundance following almond or walnut intervention. Five studies assessed fecal SCFA concentrations, with positive effects of nut interventions on propionate. There were no effects of nut interventions on fecal pH and intestinal permeability, with an unfavorable effect on fecal moisture. In summary, the available evidence indicates that nuts have modest effect on gut health, but the substantial heterogeneity between studies may hinder further conclusions. This trial was registered at PROSPERO as CRD42023451282
Ending nuclear weapons, before they end us
No full textThe African Journal of Primary Health & Family Medicine welcomes submissions that encourage scholarly exchange between family medicine and primary health care researchers and practitioners across Africa and the developing world, whilst providing a contextual and holistic view of family medicine as practiced across the continent