The role of oxidants in the activation of methane to methanol over a Ni–Mo/Al2O3 catalyst

A commercially available Ni–Mo/Al2O3 catalyst was evaluated for its effectiveness in the partial CH4 oxidation to methanol by using various oxidants, including O2, H2O, and N2O. The main products from the reactions were methanol, formaldehyde, hydrogen and carbon oxide gases. The study revealed that the one-step activation of CH4 into oxygenates on the Ni–Mo/Al2O3 catalyst depended on the type of oxidant utilized. The research examined how the mobility and storage of lattice oxygen within the catalyst influenced its performance in methane conversion. High oxygen storage and release improved catalytic activity but reduced selectivity. Methane conversion without oxygenated products occurred when H2O or N2O was used, while O2 promoted the formation of COx. The highest methanol yield was obtained at a 2 : 1 molar ratio of oxidant to methane, at reaction temperatures of 250 °C and 350 °C. When H2O was used, significant quantities of H2 and CO were produced, likely due to a simultaneous reforming reaction. Partial oxidation of nickel and molybdenum was observed under H2O and N2O conditions. Temperature-programmed reduction (TPR) indicated the transformation of higher-valence oxides into different sub-oxides. In temperature-programmed reduction–oxidation (TPRO), three peaks were detected, corresponding to oxygen surface sites and two framework locations. These peaks shifted to lower temperatures with N2O, suggesting improved oxygen migration from the bulk to the surface. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis identified an active α-NiMoO4 phase, which facilitated oxygen termination on molybdenum atoms. Under O2 conditions, nickel also underwent oxidation. Overall, the Ni–Mo/Al2O3 catalyst showed notable methanol productivity, reaching up to 9.85 g of methanol per gram of catalyst per hour with N2O as the oxidant, surpassing other catalysts reported in the literature.No Full Tex

Nonlinear modeling and machine learning techniques are needed for accurate prediction of contaminant sorption

This study examined the accuracy of linearized and nonlinearized forms of kinetics and isotherm models in fitting methylene blue (MB) adsorption by waste-derived biochar. The biochars were effective at MB removal, achieving adsorption capacities of 4.15–34.39 mg/g. The best fitting model was assessed using determination coefficient (R2) and four error functions. Nonlinearized models provided a better data fit, showing higher determination coefficients (R2) of 0.86–0.999 compared to linearized models (0.229–0.988) and lower errors (9.57–36% versus 15.75–48.5%). The use of linearized forms should be avoided since modern common software readily supports nonlinear fitting. Additionally, a regression tree model was developed using machine learning to identify key factors influencing MB adsorption and offer accurate estimations of MB adsorption. Regression tree modelling exhibited excellent predictive capability (R2 = 0.99). Using feature importance analysis, the strongest predictors of adsorption capacity were initial concentration > carbon and nitrogen contents > adsorber pH > contact time. Regression tree modelling can capture process parameters and adsorbent characteristics into an easy-to-use model which can be used in process operations and optimization. The study revealed that treating of 1 m3 of dye-contaminated wastewater cost was estimated at AUD $27–230. Biochars reusability for 3 cycles was evaluated, noting a significant reduction in effectiveness (p <  < 0.001). Despite the observed decrease in adsorption capacity, waste-derived biochars continue to offer a cost-effective, environmentally sustainable solution aligning with the concept of "treating waste with waste”. The study highlights potential of using non-conventional materials to reduce the environmental impacts and cost of wastewater treatment, alongside the benefits of machine learning for process optimization.No Full Tex

Synthesis and Monitoring of Airborne Nanoparticles with Unique Properties

Recent advancements in aerosol technology have ushered in a plethora of methodologies for the production of metal nanoparticles, encompassing techniques such as thermal evaporation, chemical vapour deposition, electrode deposition, direct metal combustion, and Glowing Wire Technology (GWT) (Boskovic & Agranovski, 2013). Among these methods, GWT emerges as a particularly promising avenue for the generation of highly pure metal nanoparticles. Despite its considerable potential, achieving accurate control over the size and purity of the resulting nanoparticles (Mourdikoudis et al., 2021) continues to be a critical area that requires further research and development within this field. The unique attributes of glowing wire technology offer distinct advantages, including scalability, simplicity, and the capability to synthesise nanoparticles with controlled purity. Nevertheless, optimising this technique to afford precise control over key parameters such as particle size, shape, and composition remains a critical challenge. Addressing these challenges necessitates a multidisciplinary approach, integrating insights from materials science, aerosol physics, and process engineering to refine the underlying mechanisms governing nanoparticle formation in GWT. Furthermore, continued exploration and refinement of glowing wire technology hold the potential to unlock new avenues for the synthesis of metal nanoparticles with tailored properties and functionalities. By leveraging advances in materials synthesis, nanotechnology, and characterisation techniques, researchers can elucidate the fundamental mechanisms dictating nanoparticle formation in GWT and devise strategies to enhance process efficiency and product quality. Ultimately, advancing the capabilities and applications of glowing wire technology in nanoparticle synthesis requires concerted efforts to bridge fundamental research with technological innovation. By fostering collaboration between academia, industry, and government agencies, we can accelerate progress in this field and unlock new opportunities for the design and fabrication of advanced nanomaterials with diverse applications. Typically, a Glowing Wire Generator (GWG) operates by utilising a designated metal wire as the precursor material to generate nanoparticles through aerosol vapour formation (Peineke et al., 2009). Through the application of GWT, nanoparticles are synthesised, typically exhibiting an average diameter of less than 30 nm (Bose et al., 2006). Moreover, it is pertinent to highlight that the nanoparticles produced via GWT often manifest a polydisperse distribution, indicating variations in size and morphology within the nanoparticle population. The utilisation of a metal wire as the precursor material in GWG offers several advantages, including simplicity of operation, scalability, and the ability to generate nanoparticles with high purity. However, the polydisperse nature of the resulting nanoparticle population presents a challenge in achieving uniformity in size and morphology, which is often desired for specific applications. Addressing this challenge requires a deeper understanding of the underlying mechanisms governing nanoparticle formation and growth in GWT. Efforts to enhance the uniformity and monodispersity of nanoparticles synthesised via GWT involve optimising process parameters such as wire composition, temperature, and gas flowrate. Additionally, advancements in nanoparticle characterisation techniques, such as Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), enable precise assessment of nanoparticle size distribution and morphology, facilitating the refinement of synthesis protocols. Furthermore, ongoing research endeavours aimed at interpreting the kinetics and thermodynamics of nanoparticle nucleation and growth in GWT hold promise for achieving greater control over nanoparticle properties. By leveraging insights from theoretical modelling and computational simulations, researchers can tailor synthesis protocols to yield nanoparticles with desired size, shape, and surface characteristics, thus expanding the applicability of GWT in various field. In this study, several of these areas were examined and can be classified into two distinct categories: 1. Production of molybdenum oxide nanoparticles using single and double wired glowing wire generator. The primary objective is to investigate methods for controlling nanoparticle production, aiming to achieve nanoparticles with different size ranges and reduced polydispersity. Small-sized nanoparticles have demonstrated significant potential across various applications, including coatings, separation processes, electronics, and energy-related applications. However, in certain applications, larger-sized nanoparticles could offer advantages by facilitating the deposition of a more homogeneous and thicker coating over a reduced time frame. Therefore, by systematically investigating the influence of process parameters, such as wire configuration, temperature, and gas flowrate, we aim to optimise nanoparticle synthesis to produce nanoparticles with controlled size distributions and enhanced uniformity. The findings of this study are expected to contribute significantly to the development of efficient and reliable nanoparticle synthesis techniques. By explaining the mechanisms governing nanoparticle deposition and uniformity, researchers can pave the way for the design and fabrication of tailored nanoparticles for specific purposes. Furthermore, the insights gained from this study may have broader implications for advancing nanoparticle-based technologies across various sectors, including materials science, electronics, and biomedical engineering. 2. Magnesium Oxide (MgO) nanoparticles represent a crucial focus of this study, owing to their immense potential across diverse fields, stemming from their unique physical and chemical properties. Their synthesis involves interdisciplinary methodologies and classification methodologies from physics, chemistry, and biology, underscoring their significance as a promising class of nanomaterials with broadranging application prospects. Central to the study is the recognition of nanoparticle charging within the synthesis flame as a pivotal indicator of their evolutionary trajectory during the formation processes. Researchers examine the shape and morphology of MgO nanoparticles within an undisturbed flame to gain insights into how continuous unipolar ion emission during external charging impacts nanoparticle synthesis. This investigation aims to enhance the understanding of the mechanisms governing nanoparticle formation in the presence of charged flames. Understanding the interplay between external charging and nanoparticle formation processes is crucial for elucidating the sophisticated dynamics at play within the synthesis flame. By interpreting how external charging influences MgO nanoparticle morphology and characteristics, researchers can uncover valuable insights into the mechanisms driving nanoparticle evolution and growth. This, in turn, can inform the development of more efficient and tailored synthesis strategies for producing MgO nanoparticles with desired properties for specific applications. Moreover, the findings of this study may have broader implications for advancing our understanding of nanoparticle synthesis processes and their applications across various disciplines. By bridging the gap between fundamental research and practical applications, researchers can unlock new avenues for harnessing the potential of MgO nanoparticles in fields such as catalysis, sensing, energy storage, and biomedicine.Thesis (PhD Doctorate)Doctor of PhilosophySchool of Eng & Built EnvGriffith SciencesFull Tex

Repairing Australia's inland river and groundwater systems: Nine priority actions, benefits and the finance gap

Inland river and groundwater systems in Australia, as elsewhere, have been heavily overexploited, modified and degraded and are subject to increasing pressures from anthropogenic activities and climate change. Here, we propose the following nine priority actions to repair these critical parts of our landscape not currently being implemented or not at a sufficient scale: (1) riparian revegetation, (2) incentivisation to retire riparian farmland, (3) water recovery to achieve sustainable levels of take in the Murray–Darling Basin, (4) restoration of riverine connectivity through constraints management, (5) removal or modification of fish barriers, (6) installation of cold-water pollution device on priority large dams, (7) installation of fish diversion screens on all irrigation pumps, (8) capping of open bores and conversion of open bore-drains remaining in the Great Artesian Basin and (9) restoration of groundwater extraction in the Murray–Darling Basin to a sustainable level of take. We estimate the scale and costs associated with each priority action and synthesise evidence demonstrating benefits. We discuss the importance of enabling and supporting regional communities, especially Indigenous nations, to implement these actions. To implement the priority actions outlined here at the scale indicated, our estimates suggest approximate annual investment from 2025 to 2054 of A$3.1 billion (2022 dollar values). Riparian revegetation across 14.4 × 106 ha could sequester 1.6 × 109 tonnes of CO2, offsetting ~37$0.9 billion and A$2.0 billion (2022 dollar values).Full Tex

Large-Scale Chemoenzymatic Synthesis of a Glycophorin A Tetrasaccharide Motif and Its Analogues

A large-scale chemoenzymatic methodology has been developed to prepare a natural and substituted analogues of the Glycophorin A tetrasaccharide, in which the α-2,3-sialic acid is modified at either C5 or C9 either as F, OMe, CH3, glycolyl or N3. The strategy involved a chemical synthesis of a Gal-β-1,3-GalNAc disaccharide in which the galactose remains acetylated to first enable selective α-2,6-sialylation using a one-pot aldolase-NmCSS-Pd2,6-ST enzyme system. Finally, C5 or C9 modifed α-2,3 sialosides were placed at the galactoside moiety using C2 or C6 modified MaNAc derivatives catalyzed by aldolase NmCSS-Pd2,3-ST enzyme combination. The synthesised molecules can be useful in binding studies with a protein of interest or as an entry point to establish a library of analytical samples for mass-spectrometric studies.Full Tex

The impact of child and adolescent health on adult respiratory health: the evidence, gaps and priorities

Chronic respiratory diseases impart a huge global disease burden. Many cases of adult chronic respiratory disorders are recognised to originate early in life during critical phases of lung growth and development. We therefore reviewed the longitudinal evolution of common childhood respiratory diseases across the lifespan. We included studies relating childhood respiratory health (preterm birth, asthma, low lung function or bronchiectasis) to respiratory health in adolescents and adults, including COPD.The negative impact of preterm birth (with or without bronchopulmonary dysplasia) on future respiratory health has now been quantified, with many having increasing deviation of lung function from the norm over their life course. While previous studies report children with asthma frequently "outgrow their disease" by adolescence or early adulthood, recent data describe asthma trajectories that include relapse, early-onset adult-remitting, and early-onset persistent childhood asthma. Evidence is emerging in adults of the negative impact of chronic productive cough, breathlessness and lower lung function on future respiratory and cardiovascular health and all-cause mortality. In addition, we found that in general, childhood respiratory health and adverse lung function trajectories are inextricably linked to adult respiratory health and cardiovascular events, as well as cardiovascular and all-cause mortality. Thus, we highlight the importance of pulmonary assessments in high-risk groups during childhood (e.g. preterm birth, parental smokers, early life hospitalisation for acute lower respiratory infections). Our review emphasises the importance of childhood respiratory health and the need for interventions to reduce or manage disease burden, which require a whole-of-society approach across the life course.Full Tex

The Utility of Body-Worn Cameras as a Training Tool

There is strong potential for BWCs as a training tool. BWC footage can enhance the feedback process by positioning trainees as active learners. Utilising BWC video in training sessions can enhance trainees’ understanding of feedback, clarify areas of improvement, and build confidence in their performance. Ideally, instructors should be present during BWC video reviews to provide context, alleviate discomfort, and focus trainees on constructive reflection and future performance improvements.Full Tex

Developing a learning tool for advanced life support and resuscitation: Performance Reflection Model for Resuscitation (PRM-Resus)

BACKGROUND: Acquiring proficiency in advanced life support (ALS) can pose challenges for novice learners. Simulation-based training (SBT) is widely used to address this, offering learners opportunities to practise and receive feedback during debriefing. However, existing performance tools often lack the clarity, behavioural specificity, and educational scaffolding required to support deep reflective learning. This study aimed to develop and evaluate the Performance Reflection Model for Resuscitation (PRM-Resus) and to integrate it with the ALS Team Model and structured video exemplars as a comprehensive learning package to enhance ALS training. METHODS: The study involved four phases. Phase 1 created the ALS Team Model to clarify individual roles. Phase 2 focused on co-designing PRM-Resus, using team expertise and the Team Model to create behaviourally anchored performance descriptors. In Phase 3, video scenarios were produced to represent ALS team performance at varying proficiency levels. Phase 4 evaluated the PRM-Resus through expert think-aloud studies. Qualitative content analysis was used alongside Cronbach's alpha to assess internal consistency and its use for SBT. RESULTS: The PRM-Resus comprises four domains-clinical skills, clinical knowledge, team management, and leadership-each defined by behavioural descriptors across three performance levels. The participating experts endorsed the tool's clarity, structure, and educational value for novice learners. Internal consistency was high (α > 0.95). When used alongside the ALS Team Model and video exemplars, PRM-Resus facilitated deeper performance analysis, which had potential for enhancing post-simulation reflection and supporting faculty development. CONCLUSIONS: This study presents a novel, interdisciplinary framework that integrates PRM-Resus, the ALS Team Model, and video exemplars to support reflective learning in ALS simulation. Together, these tools help novice learners build a concrete understanding of effective team performance and enable educators to deliver more structured feedback. Further research should explore its impact on learner development and potential translation into improved clinical outcomes.Full Tex

Digital activism and transnational movements: Climate change protest in the digital age

Political and social movements that support action on climate change have become some of the largest, and most internationally relevant activist organisations in the world. As each Conference of the Parties (COP) meeting occurs and dominates the news agenda, and as each Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report is released, publics around the globe receive ongoing and dire warnings about the parlous state of the world’s natural ecosystems and its broader impacts. While major international attention for these issues was first attracted by Rachel Carson’s 1962 work, Silent Spring, and by subsequent high-profile “tree sits” through the late 1960s and 1970s (Hansen, 1993, 2010; DeLuca et al., 2011), there is little doubt that the onset of digital media technologies has changed the way most social movements recruit, communicate, and organise. This chapter considers the shape and priorities of climate change protest in the digital era, marked by the “complex information flows” of a converged media environment (Anderson, 2009, 2014). There is significant literature that has cautioned against technological utopianism (for example, Bennett, 2003; Habermas, 2006; Lister et al., 2009; Wolfsfeld et al., 2013); and that has reminded activists of the importance of offline, traditional forms of organising. However, there is also growing evidence that digital and social media have now developed to the point that many activist social movements have adapted their “repertoire of actions” (Martinez Sainz and Hanna, 2025: 117) to maximise the potential of these accessible, low-cost digital tools. These tools facilitate communication with and organisation of hundreds of thousands of people at once, in ways legacy media and traditional forms of organising could never do. What is clear is that transnational protest movements – for climate crisis, anti-austerity, anti-global inequality, and worldwide Indigenous rights – have adapted in complex and sophisticated ways to these new tools. While protest movements have historically attempted to meet media priorities and agendas in order to maximise their message reach, they are now mediating themselves in ways that see them morph into hybrid online and offline forms to achieve their goals (see, for example, Hestres, 2014; Karpf, 2016; Mattoni, 2017; Couldry et al., 2018; Sorce and Dumitrica, 2022).No Full Tex

Have significant biodiversity values been protected from industrial logging across Australia?

Much of the planet's forest biodiversity is at risk from a range of threats. Threats include gaps in the protected area network and instances where these gaps are subject to intensive industrial logging. These gaps are referred to as optimal areas for protection and we sought to determine if certification schemes maintained the environmental values of these areas across Australia. To do this, we identified gaps within the existing protected area network across Australia that were optimal areas for protecting forest- and woodland-dependent species of national environmental significance. We intersected our results with spatial records of logging between 2007 and 2023 in the Australian states of Victoria and New South Wales that have been awarded certification under the Responsible Wood scheme. We found a large proportion of logging in Victoria and New South Wales occurred within high scoring optimal areas for protecting species of national environmental significance. We conclude that certification schemes are likely failing to meet their stated objectives to adequately maintain the environmental values of optimal areas for protection from the most intensive forms of logging. Reform of Australia's certification schemes and a significant expansion of protected forest areas is urgently needed.Full Tex