School of Science - Te Kura Pūtaiao

Permanent link for this collectionhttps://hdl.handle.net/10292/1333

Research at AUT's School of Science - Te Kura Pūtaiao is focused on key scientific issues with regional and global significance. The common theme connecting all research areas is sustainability – in the broadest sense as it relates to environmental and human health. Our research is closely allied to teaching and learning opportunities at undergraduate and postgraduate level within the school. Research is organised in six main areas:

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But Is Ageing Really All Bad? Conceptualising Positive Ageing
(MDPI AG, 2025-11-18) Park, Miriam Sang-Ah; Webber, Blake; Badham, Stephen P; Krägeloh, Christian U; Capone, Vincenza; Donizzetti, Anna Rosa; Joshanloo, Mohsen; Harsányi, Szabolcs Gergő; Kovács, Monika; Hellis, Emily
Ageing literature, while growing in huge volume in the past decades, is still largely dominated by frameworks and topics of frailty and decline. A shift in attention to conceptualising ageing more holistically to include psychosocial and emotional aspects as well as subjective experience is much needed, in order to better account for the ageing (well) experience and processes in today’s times. There is a large portion of older adults with relatively good health. As life expectancy increases around the world, many older adults are living longer and healthier overall, often wishing for their lives to continue being active, meaningful, and fulfilling. With this changing demographic in mind, we argue for a framework of positive ageing. We define positive ageing as a subjective, intentional experience, which includes the multi-dimensional construction of ageing well. The notion of positive ageing has the potential to widen the scope of gerontological research and to help guide policy and intervention development. Furthermore, this conceptual framework and a cyclic model of positive ageing presented in the current work can effectively complement current models and practices of care in geriatrics by taking a more person-centred and holistic approach to understanding and managing health and well-being.
A Tutorial and Methodological Review of Linear Time Series Models: Using R and SPSS
(American Psychological Association (APA), 2025-11-13) Rosel, Jesús F; Puchol, Sara; Elipe, Marcel; Flor, Patricia; Machancoses, Francisco H; Canales, Juan J
This article introduces autoregressive (AR) linear models to psychology students and researchers through a step-by-step approach using SPSS and R. Despite their relevance, AR models remain underutilized in behavioral sciences, possibly due to conceptual challenges and difficulties interpreting autocorrelation and seasonality. Our aim is to simplify their implementation by presenting time series models as special cases of linear regression, using accessible language and practical examples. The article illustrates AR estimation using real data, incorporating lagged values as predictors of the dependent variable. Residual diagnostics, a frequently overlooked aspect in applied research, receive special attention, including figures and statistical tests. As Kmenta (1971) demonstrated, serially correlated residuals can lead to artificially low p values for the parameter estimates, potentially resulting in explanatory variables being deemed significant when they truly are not. To promote understanding, we offer intuitive visualizations and clear decision rules for model building, lag selection, and seasonality detection. We compare polynomial and AR models using the confounding test. The data set and annotated R and SPSS scripts are included to support replication and help readers learn basic syntax. We also discuss conceptual and practical limitations of moving average, integration (I), and exponential smoothing models, emphasizing the practical advantages of AR-only models in psychological contexts. Throughout, we stress the importance of aligning statistical models with theoretical assumptions and the temporal structure of data. By combining step-by-step explanations, visual guidance, and real-data applications, this tutorial provides a practical foundation for incorporating AR models into applied psychological research.
Extraction, Phytochemical Analysis, and Bioactivity Evaluation of Polyphenols from Kunzea ericoides (Kanuka) Plant
(MDPI AG, 2025-10-31) Dhaliwal, Harmandeep; Li, Yan; Yoo, Michelle
Kunzea ericoides (kanuka), a native plant of New Zealand, has a significant role in traditional medicine due to the presence of essential oils. Apart from these oils, this plant also is a source of many bioactive compounds, majority of which are polyphenols. However, there is lack of sufficient data supporting the extraction of polyphenols from kanuka plant leaves and investigating its bioactivity and phytochemical properties. The study aims to extract polyphenols from kanuka plant leaves with a conventional solvent-based method and determine the phytochemical analysis as well as bioactive potential. Extraction was performed with methanol and acetone as solvents. Polyphenolic prolife was analyzed with LC-MS. Bioactive analysis of kanuka leaf extract was carried out to determine total phenolic content and antioxidant activity. We investigated the cytotoxic effect of kanuka leaf extract on two triple-negative breast cancer cells—MDA-MB-231 and BT-549. LC-MS analysis confirmed kanuka leaf extract is a source of many polyphenols, some giving very prominent signals on TIC scan. Ten polyphenolic compounds were confirmed to be present in kanuka leaf extract based on MRM analysis. FRAP-CUPRAC analysis indicated significant antioxidant activity in the kanuka leaf extract. Antiproliferative analysis has confirmed cytotoxicity of the kanuka leaf extract on the triple-negative breast cancer cell lines. This study indicates that Kunzea ericoides leaf extract, rich in polyphenols, shows promising antioxidant and antiproliferative potential, warranting further investigation for therapeutic applications.
Design Considerations for a Multiple Sclerosis Fatigue Mobile App MS Energize: A Pragmatic Iterative Approach Using Usability Testing and Resonance Checks
(Elsevier, 2021-04-01) van Kessel, K; Babbage, D; Kersten, P; Drown, J; Sezier, A; Thomas, PW; Thomas, S
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological condition affecting around 2.2 million people worldwide. The illness includes a range of symptoms, with fatigue considered to be one of the most disabling. This paper describes how a pragmatic and iterative approach, supported by usability and resonance testing, was used to build a minimum viable product of MS Energize—or MS Energise in UK English regions. MS Energise is a mobile application focused on self-management of fatigue for people with MS. The iterative approach included various stages of testing, during which user feedback including comments about interface, navigation and content, was sought to inform incremental app development and continual improvement. Usability testing was conducted with 11 people with longstanding multiple sclerosis in New Zealand and the United Kingdom, and focused on particular sections of the app as well as the accessibility of the app to users with MS. Two participants contributed to further resonance testing post-release to ensure the app was perceived as relevant and useful to the user. The usability testing and resonance testing phases suggested that user experience of MS Energise was mostly positive. Participants provided a number of suggestions for improvements to aspects of content and design; some of which we implemented during our app development process. Findings will also contribute to future planning and design iteration to enhance the user experience. The next step is further improvement of MS Energise prior to a trial of its clinical and cost effectiveness.
Coping Strategies During the COVID-19 Pandemic and Compliance with Precautionary Health Behaviors: An Online Study Among the Saudi Adult Population
(Medknow, 2021) Alyami, H; Alyami, M; Krägeloh, Chris; Nemenqani, D; Henning, M
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has caused major morbidity and mortality internationally. Most governments worldwide have enforced precautionary health measures such as social distancing, hand hygiene, and wearing gloves to limit the spread of this disease. In response to major health and economic stressors, individuals exhibit a range of different coping styles. Aim: The aim of this study is to identify coping strategies that are predictive of compliance with pandemic-related precautionary health behaviors in Saudi Arabia. Settings: A cross-sectional study was conducted online with a total of 1029 Saudi adult participants. Materials and Methods: The Brief Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced (COPE) questionnaire was administered as well as appraising the level of compliance with the Saudi Ministry of Health precautionary measures. Multiple regression analyses explored the associations between coping styles and precautionary health behavior compliance. Statistical Analysis: Multivariate multiple regression and linear regression analyses were used to analyze the data. Results: The active coping and religion Brief COPE subscales as well as age predicted compliance with all precautionary measures. The behavioral disengagement Brief COPE subscale predicted hand washing and social distancing while the substance use Brief COPE subscale and sex predicted wearing gloves. Conclusion: Compliance with COVID-19-related precautionary health behaviors is driven by different coping styles. Active coping and religion appeared to influence all three health behaviors which might guide public health officials in their efforts to develop effective public health campaigns, which further suggests the importance of involving the religious institutions in Saudi Arabia.
Sex-based Differences in Affective and Cognitive Empathy Following Severe Traumatic Brain Injury
(American Psychological Association, 2018-07-01) Zupan, B; Neumann, D; Babbage, D; Willer, B
Objective: To examine sex differences in self-ratings for affective and cognitive empathy for males and females with traumatic brain injury (TBI) and compare these to observer ratings. Method: Self and observer (e.g., spouse) ratings of affective and cognitive empathy were obtained for 160 participants (116 males) with severe TBI, using the Interpersonal Reactivity Index Empathic Concern (EC) and Perspective Taking (PT) subscales, respectively. Results: When compared to sex norms, female self-ratings were significantly lower for both subscales, whereas men's self-report ratings were only lower for PT. For EC, more women (44%) were found to be substantially below the normative means (≥2 SDs) than men (17%), p < .001. When comparing women and men with TBI, self-report and observer ratings indicated both sexes had similar empathy levels (both subscales). Self versus observer ratings showed that women's self-ratings were significantly higher than observer's ratings on PT (p < .001); men's self-ratings were significantly higher than observer's ratings on PT (p < .001) and EC (p = .009). Conclusions: In contrast to the typically observed superior female empathy, this study suggests this advantage may disappear after a TBI, and possibly result in a disadvantage compared to their uninjured female peers. Theoretical implications of self-awareness and cultural gender expectations for empathy are discussed.
Enhancing the Multi-dimensional Assessment of Quality of Life: Introducing the WHOQOL-Combi
(Springer Nature, 2020-12-17) Skevington, SM; Rowland, C; Panagioti, M; Bower, P; Krägeloh, Chris
Introduction: We revisited the global concept of subjective quality of life (QoL) as assessed by the WHOQOL-BREF to investigate whether it could be elaborated into a conceptually more comprehensive instrument with good psychometric properties. Responding to a growing need for shorter QoL measures with broader social, spiritual and environmental contents, facets from WHOQOL international modules were examined for potential integration into the new WHOQOL-Combi. Method: Adults over 65 years, diagnosed with one or more chronic diseases (n = 2833), completed 41 WHOQOL items during the CLASSIC survey; each item represented a WHOQOL facet. This pool of specific QoL facets contained 24 from the WHOQOL-BREF (excluding general items), and 17 from recent international WHOQOL short-form modules, selected for their generic properties. Rasch modelling reduced the final item pool when assessing the WHOQOL-Combi’s conceptual structure. Comparisons are made with the WHOQOL-BREF. Results: Modelling confirmed the tenability of a 36-item solution scored as a five-domain profile, comprised of 24 WHOQOL-BREF facets and 12 new facets from modules. Social and psychological domains were strengthened by three facets, spiritual QoL by five, and physical QoL by one. The WHOQOL-Combi showed sound model fit, excellent internal consistency (α =.95), and scores discriminated between socio-demographic categories. Concurrent validity with the EQ-5D-5L was confirmed for physical and psychological domains. Performance was similar to the WHOQOL-BREF. Conclusion: The WHOQOL-Combi offers a contemporary, comprehensive, integrated, multi-dimensional subjective QoL instrument with enhanced evaluations of social, spiritual, psychological and physical QoL. Acceptable to older people, future research should evaluate younger age groups and other cultures.
Attitudes of Rural Communities Towards the Use of Technology for Health Purposes in New Zealand: A Focus Group Study
(BMJ, 2020) Babbage, DR; van Kessel, K; Terraschke, A; Drown, J; Elder, H
Objectives Examine attitudes to using online health and wellness services, and determine what barriers may exist to this in two rural communities in New Zealand. Design A thematic analysis informed by a social constructivist paradigm explored the attitudes of youth and adults to give voice to these communities. Eighteen focus groups—nine in each region—were held for an hour each, with between three and nine participants in each group. Setting Two rural areas at the Northern and Southern ends of New Zealand were chosen. In each area, we partnered with a local health centre providing primary care services. Three localities were identified within each region where we conducted the data collection. Participants Participants were youth aged 12–15 years, aged 16–20 years and adults over 21 years. Overall, 74 females and 40 males were recruited. Recruitment occurred through schools, community organisations or personal contacts of the facilitators, who were youth workers in their respective communities. Ethnicity of the participants was representative of each area, with a higher percentage of Māori participants in Northland. Results Eight themes were identified which described participants’ attitudes to technology use in healthcare. Themes covered accessibility, cost, independence, anonymity and awareness issues: technology makes health information easily accessible; access to technology can be limited in rural communities; technology can reduce the cost of healthcare but it is too expensive for some; technology increases independence and autonomy of people’s own health; independent healthcare decisions come with risks; anonymity encourages people to seek help online; technology can help raise awareness and provide peer-support for people with health issues; technology impacts on social relationships. Conclusions Participants—particularly youth—were generally positive about the role of technology in healthcare delivery, and interested in ways technology could improve autonomy and access to health and wellness services.
MS Energize: Field Trial of an App for Self-Management of Fatigue for People with Multiple Sclerosis
(Elsevier, 2019-12-01) Babbage, DR; van Kessel, K; Drown, J; Thomas, S; Sezier, A; Thomas, P; Kersten, P
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a lifelong neurological condition affecting around 2.2 million people worldwide. There are a wide range of symptoms, with fatigue reported as one of the most troublesome. MS Energize—or MS Energise in UK English regions—is an iPhone app focused on self-management of fatigue for people with MS. Based on cognitive-behavioral therapy principles, the app covers MS fatigue, how to use energy effectively, how behavior, thoughts and emotions interact and impact on MS fatigue, as well as the potential effects of bodily and environmental factors. MS Energize provides education, interactive tasks, and supports application of the principles into a user's day-to-day life. We field tested the usability and perceived usefulness of MS Energize with 11 people with longstanding multiple sclerosis in New Zealand and the United Kingdom. Participants used the app over a period of five to six weeks after which they rated the usability of the app and participated in an in-depth qualitative interview. We developed four main themes through our thematic analysis. 1. Validation of participants' own experiences of living with MS fatigue. 2. The personal cost in engaging with such an intervention. 3. Reframing experiences and adding to knowledge. 4. That the app was generally a good idea. Field testers' feedback also identified usability issues that could be addressed. In particular, the amount of text-based content in the app contributed to the app itself being fatiguing. This field-testing process has highlighted the value of the app while also guiding our roadmap for further developments to enhance usability and usefulness. The next step is further refinement of components of MS Energize in preparation for a trial of its clinical and cost effectiveness.
Screening and Assessment of Type 2 Diabetes Risk Factors Among Pacific Youth Attending Community Health Events in Auckland
(Pasifika Medical Association Group, 2025-11-07) Shannon II, Fulton; Puli'uvea, Chris; Tan, Jasmine; Murphy, Rinki; Doherty, Glenn
Aims: The primary objective of this study was to explore type 2 diabetes (T2D) awareness, knowledge, attitudes and risk factors among youth in Auckland. Methods: We undertook convenience sampling of participants aged 16–25 years of Pacific and Māori descent recruited from South, Central and East Auckland through multiple community outreach events organised by the Tongan Health Society from 25 May to 31 July 2024. An additional three participants aged 26–31 years were assessed opportunistically to enhance our study power. Data were collected through a structured survey, an HbA1c point-of-care test, body composition assessments (using the TANITA RD-545 InnerScan PRO body composition scale) and height measurements. Results: In a sample of 138 participants (aged 16–31 years; 58% female; 62% Tongan, 18% Samoan and 3% Māori), 51.9% were classified as obese, and one new case of diabetes was identified. Approximately 60.1% of participants reported awareness of T2D. Of these, 40% were made aware primarily through familial sources. High consumption of sugary drinks was common. Non-dietary risk factors included a first-degree family history of T2D (36%), smoking (39%) and alcohol consumption (45%). Most participants reportedly engaged in regular physical activity (41% males and 59% females). Participants suggested a multifaceted, youth-focussed care model, primarily lifestyle management for T2D prevention and management. Conclusions: A significant proportion of young people aged 16–31 years were identified as obese and had a higher proportion of dietary and non-dietary risks for T2D. The results underscore the necessity for tailored prevention strategies, mainly aimed at Pacific and Māori youth, to mitigate the risk of future T2D development.
Revisiting Genetic Data Stewardship Practices in Aotearoa New Zealand: A Call to Action on Integrating Māori Data Sovereignty
(Wiley, 2025-08-19) Dhami, MK; Matheson, P; Bird, S; Walker, L; Hohaia, H; McGaughran, A
Genetic data, including environmental DNA (eDNA), are regularly used to monitor escalating biodiversity concerns globally. In Aotearoa New Zealand, biodiversity is unique and cherished—many species are taonga (treasured) and cared for by kaitiaki (guardians with customary responsibilities), specifically mana whenua with custodial rights (Māori; the Indigenous people of New Zealand). Discussions are currently underway regarding the development of a reference DNA barcode database for biodiversity in Aotearoa New Zealand to improve outcomes for biosecurity surveillance and biodiversity assessment. A priority of these discussions is that the database development and eventual implementation accords with Te Tiriti o Waitangi (The Treaty of Waitangi). Here, we evaluate current practices for storing genetic data from samples collected in Aotearoa New Zealand by examining two major public data repositories—the National Centre for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) GenBank and the Barcode of Life Data System (BOLD). We find that current database practices limit opportunities for Māori data sovereignty, with DNA from many taonga species uploaded to public repositories with no associated restrictions or guidelines over use. This is an important finding that will help shape the development of a future DNA reference database for Aotearoa New Zealand that integrates the rights and interests of Indigenous communities.
Comparative Physiological Profiling of Abalone (Haliotis iris): Insights from Wild and Aquaculture Broodstock
(MDPI AG, 2025-11-05) Sawant, Ruchira S; Venter, Leonie; Azizan, Awanis; Guo, Jinchen; Carter, Jack; Bullon, Natalia; Chen, Tony; Copedo, Joanna S; Ragg, Norman LC; Sabetian, Armagan; Alfaro, Andrea C
New Zealand abalone (Haliotis iris) holds ecological, economic, and cultural value, with wild stocks supporting fisheries and an emerging aquaculture industry. Wild-caught adult abalone are often used as broodstock, but captivity can affect spawning and offspring quality. This study is the first to profile wild and farmed H. iris broodstock using histology, proximate composition, microbiome, and metabolomics analyses. Histology showed higher gonadal abnormalities in farmed abalone, while wild abalone exhibited increased ciliates in their gills, indicating richer marine–microorganism interactions. Microbiome analyses revealed a higher microbial richness and diversity in the buccal cavity of wild abalone. The core microbiota phyla across both groups included Proteobacteria, Bacteroidota, Campylobacterota, Fusobacteria, and Firmicutes. Proximate analyses showed higher muscle protein in farmed abalone, while gonadal tissue partitioned by sex showed higher fat in females and higher protein in males. Metabolomics revealed altered amino acid metabolism in the adductor muscle, carboxylic acid metabolism in the gonad, and fatty acid metabolism in the foot. This investigation expands our understanding of the physiological and microbial differences between wild and farmed abalone, showing altered gonad and muscle conditions from prolonged captivity and highlighting the need for greater microbial diversity in cultured stocks.
Decoding Chicken Growth Regulation Through Multi-Omics Insights and Emerging Genetic Tools for Growth Optimization
(Elsevier BV, 2025-07-05) Nawaz, Ali Hassan; Ding, Jiqiang; Ali, Munwar; Leng, Dong; Mukhtar, Nasir; Ali, Ahtisham; Feng, Chungang
Body weight and growth are crucial traits in chickens, regulated by an intricate genetic architecture that remains challenging to understand completely. Multiple quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping and genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have revealed numerous genetic variations associated with these economically important traits, but the application of these findings for sustainable and efficient poultry production is limited. This review synthesizes existing knowledge on the genetic regulation of chicken growth, challenging the traditional approach and encouraging the development of integrated strategies to comprehend the regulatory mechanisms underlying complex growth phenotypes. This review highlights recent advances in omics studies (genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics), emphasising the utility of single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) in addressing cellular heterogeneity within growth-related tissues. The advancement of genome sequencing technologies, combined with progress in CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome editing, has opened new avenues for the precision breeding of economically important traits in chickens. It also discusses how the newly developed Chicken Genotype-Tissue Expression (ChickenGTEx) project and other related data resources could potentially serve as crucial tools to reveal the regulatory mechanisms related to chicken growth, offering insights into tissue specific gene expression. By elucidating regulatory networks and identifying key knowledge gaps, this review intends to accelerate the development of precision breeding approaches for sustainable and efficient poultry production, ultimately enhancing global food security.
Distinguishing Trait and State Competitiveness in University Students Using Generalizability Theory
(Springer Science and Business Media LLC, 2025-10-21) Medvedev, ON; Wang, GY; Krägeloh, CU; Zhao, Q
During transition to adulthood, competitiveness can significantly influence an individual’s success in academic, professional, and social contexts. This study applied the Revised Competitiveness Index (RCI) to a sample of 227 individuals aged 18 to 29, measuring competitiveness across three time intervals, each separated by three weeks, to assess the stability of this trait using generalizability theory. Findings indicate that competitiveness, as measured by the RCI, exhibits significant consistency across time points, underscoring its presence as a stable trait rather than a fluctuating state. The results suggest that competitiveness remains a persistent characteristic within this demographic, potentially aiding in identifying individuals with a natural disposition toward competitive environments. Efforts to delineate state competitiveness through the index items proved less fruitful. This research accentuates the importance of considering competitiveness trait within young adults, with implications for designing educational and professional interventions aimed at recognising and nurturing competitive strengths in youth.
The Contest of the 'Causer' Contender and the 'Agent' Defender
(Cambridge University Press (CUP), 2025-10-13) Ryan, Margaret Kathleen; Cupples, Linda; Giblin, Iain; Nickels, Lyndsey; Sowman, Paul F
Skilled and impaired language users can fail to understand sentences with noncanonical thematic role ordering. To advance understanding of the cause of the difficulty, we compared noncanonically ordered, object-experiencer-verb (OE) sentences to canonical agentive sentences in otherwise comparable syntactic structures. However, the field has neglected to consider that OE thematic roles may be altered by the comprehender’s interpretation; the aim of the investigation reported here was to address this research gap. We collected participants’ thematic role interpretations for sentences while measuring incremental processing speed as they read the sentences in a self-paced reading paradigm. Fluent English speakers rated the intent of the subjects of OE and agentive active sentences and of the objects of OE and agentive passive sentences. Consistently high ratings of intent identified a cluster containing agentives and an OE eventive subtype with an agent. In contrast, a spread of ratings in a second cluster suggested labile interpretation for a second OE subtype. Splitting the labile group at its active and passive mean, we compared reading time of OE and agentive sentences with a higher-intent, agent interpretation with OE sentences with a low-intent causer/theme interpretation. Whether active or passive, canonicity as determined by the relative prominence ordering of the rated role compared to the necessary OE experiencer or agentive theme, accounted for reading speed at the verb, second noun, and prepositional phrase. We propose that the results support an agent > experiencer > (causer)/theme thematic role hierarchy, suggesting refinements to event structure theory and little v/CAUS morphology.
Preliminary Validation of a 10-item Version of the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale in a Mild Traumatic Brain Injury Sample
(CSIRO Publishing, 2025-10-21) Snell, Deborah L; Faulkner, Josh W; Siegert, RJ
BACKGROUND: In this study, we evaluated the psychometric properties of a 10-item version of the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-10) in a mild traumatic brain injury (mild TBI) sample. METHODS: Treatment-seeking adults (n = 354; mean age 36.3 years, 62% women) were recruited from outpatient rehabilitation services in New Zealand. Participants completed the DASS-10 on average 11.5 (15.0) weeks after their injury. Dimensionality, reliability, person separation index and differential item functioning of the DASS-10 were examined using Rasch analyses. RESULTS: Initial fit to the Rasch model for the 10-item measure was good (χ2 = 78.6, d.f. = 70, P = 0.22), with high internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha 0.89, person separation index 0.86) and acceptable unidimensionality. There was no evidence of differential item functioning for any of the person factors tested (age, gender, ethnicity, education, mental health history). CONCLUSION: These findings provide preliminary support for the DASS-10 as a psychometrically sound measure of psychological distress for adults seeking treatment following mild TBI. The DASS-10 for mild TBI may be a helpful brief measure to triage mental health needs among persons referred to outpatient services after mild TBI.
Nectar Traits of New Zealand Trees Vary Across Climatic Zones
(Frontiers Media SA, 2025-10-03) van Delden, Johanna M; Leuzinger, Sebastian; Richardson, Sarah J; Clearwater, Michael J
Introduction: To evaluate whether plant traits (nectar volume, concentration, sugar mass, flower fresh mass, and size) vary regionally in response to climate, we examined eight native New Zealand tree species. Methods: Flowers were sampled using micropipettes from seven sites across five climate zones spanning both main islands (37–45°S/170–177°E) after having been bagged for 24 hours. Trait data were standardized (0–1 scale) and pooled into a global dataset for cross-species analysis. We used linear regression to assess correlations between plant traits across and within species, followed by parametric and non-parametric tests to examine regional variation. Generalized additive mixed models (GAMMs) were applied to model trait responses to regional climate factors, identifying significant correlations within and across species. Results: Sampling yielded 4,276 flowers and 2,240 μL of nectar from 164 trees. Nectar volume ranged from 0.3–72 μL, concentration from 0.4–53°Brix, sugar mass from 0.01–13 mg, flower fresh mass from 4–1116 mg, and flower size from 4–54 mm. Across species, nectar concentrations were generally higher in drier regions (Canterbury and Hawke’s Bay) located in the rain shadow of axial mountain ranges on New Zealand’s east coast. Nectar volumes and flower masses were greatest in Dunedin, likely influenced by high relative humidity and low sunshine hours. In Nelson-Tasman and Marlborough, flowers were larger, but this trend was unexplained by climatic factors. Within species, plant traits exhibited regional variation, with highly species-specific trait relationships. GAMMs revealed significant climate-trait correlations in 87.5% of species, with climate variables explaining 18–84% of regional variation. Annual sunshine hours and rainfall had the strongest effects, and South Island nectar contained the highest sugar amounts in 67% of species. Discussion: Although no uniform trend was evident across species, nectar volumes tended to be lower in sunnier regions, while flowers were larger and nectar concentrations higher in drier areas. Future studies should examine closely related species with larger sample sizes per region, ideally incorporating microclimate data from standardized measurement periods prior to sampling.
Hindguts of Kyphosus sydneyanus Harbor Phylogenetically and Genomically Distinct Alistipes Capable of Degrading Algal Polysaccharides and Diazotrophy
(American Society for Microbiology, 2024-12-23) Facimoto, CT; Clements, KD; White, WL; Handley, KM
The genus Alistipes (Bacteroidota) is most often associated with human clinical samples and livestock. However, Alistipes are also prevalent in the hindgut of the marine herbivorous fish Kyphosus sydneyanus (Silver Drummer), and analysis of their carbohydrate-active enzyme (CAZyme) encoding gene repertoires suggests Alistipes degrade macroalgal biomass to support fish nutrition. To further explore host-associated traits unique to K. sydneyanus-derived Alistipes, we compared 445 high-quality genomes of Alistipes available in public databases (e.g., human and ruminant associated) with 99 metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) from the K. sydneyanus gut. Analyses showed that Alistipes from K. sydneyanus are phylogenetically distinct from other hosts and comprise 26 species based on genomic average nucleotide identity (ANI) analyses. Ruminant- and fish-derived Alistipes had significantly smaller genomes than human-derived strains, and lower GC contents, possibly reflecting a symbiotic relationship with their hosts. The fish-derived Alistipes were further delineated by their genetic capacity to fix nitrogen, biosynthesize cobalamin (vitamin B12), and utilize marine polysaccharides (e.g., alginate and carrageenan). The distribution of CAZymes encoded by Alistipes from K. sydneyanus was not phylogenetically conserved. Distinct CAZyme gene compositions were observed between closely related species. Conversely, CAZyme gene clusters (operons) targeting the same substrates were found across diverse species. Nonetheless, transcriptional data suggest that closely related Alistipes target specific groups of substrates within the fish hindgut. Results highlight host-specific adaptations among Alistipes in the fish hindgut that likely contribute to K. sydneyanus digesting their seaweed diet, and diverse and redundant carbohydrate-degrading capabilities across these Alistipes species.
GamblingLess: In-The-Moment: A Mixed-Methods Acceptability and Engagement Evaluation of a Gambling Just-in-Time Adaptive Intervention
(Springer Science and Business Media LLC, 2025-10-14) Dowling, NA; Merkouris, SS; Greenwood, CJ; Youssef, GJ; Thomas, AC; Hawker, CO; Lubman, DI; Rodda, SN
BACKGROUND: Mobile health interventions, particularly dynamic Just-In-Time Adaptive Interventions (JITAIs), can overcome barriers to gambling treatment by offering timely, accessible support in people's everyday lives. GamblingLess: In-The-Moment is a theoretically-informed and evidence-based app-delivered JITAI to people who want to quit or reduce their gambling. The JITAI aims to reduce gambling symptom severity through short-term reductions in the likelihood of gambling episodes by improving cognitive vulnerability (craving intensity, self-efficacy, or positive outcome expectancies). It administers three daily ecological momentary assessments (EMAs) to deliver tailored interventions in moments of cognitive vulnerability. Given that intervention acceptability and engagement are likely to improve clinical outcomes, this study aimed to comprehensively examine these constructs for GamblingLess: In-The-Moment. METHODS: A 28-day micro-randomised trial (MRT) was conducted, with a supplementary six-month within-group follow-up evaluation and a mixed-methods acceptability/engagement evaluation. The acceptability/engagement evaluation included: (1) app use and engagement indices across the MRT (n = 192; 66% male; agemedian=35 years); (2) app acceptability measures administered at post-intervention (n = 161; 84% completion rate), and (3) semi-structured interviews (n = 11). RESULTS: App use and engagement indices indicated that the JITAI was an attractive option for gambling support. Participants completed 5,116 EMAs (compliance rate = 32%, averaging 27 EMAs), spent an average of 30 min in the app, and completed an average of nine intervention activities from a pool of 53 activities they could repeatedly access. Subjective quality and perceived impact scores well exceeded minimally acceptable standards but 77% of participants preferred a hybrid push-pull approach and many endorsed less frequent EMAs (52%) but a longer program (58%). Participants also endorsed additional features, such as in-person support, motivational messages, gambling feedback, saving favourite activities, online discussion boards, virtual computer coaches, and in-app rewards. Interviews revealed two distinct themes: (1) facilitation of gambling reductions through check-ins/availability, personal tailoring, seamless and holistic support, and treatment experience suitability; and (2) promoting behaviour change through enhanced awareness, goal-setting, skill-building, and positive habit formation. CONCLUSIONS: GamblingLess: In-The-Moment was highly accepted and was generally perceived as effective in supporting reductions in gambling behaviour. The findings underscore the iterative process for JITAI development and highlight several avenues for its optimisation, particularly in relation to enhancing user engagement and reducing user fatigue. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The evaluation was registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12622000490774) in March, 2022.
Opportunities, Challenges, and Policy Implications of the Aerobiome Paradigm Shift
(American Society for Microbiology, 2025-08-07) Breed, MF; Liddicoat, C; Sun, X; Ramesh, S; Hawken, S; Lee, K; Brame, J; Fickling, NW; Kuhn, E; Hayward, C; Deshmukh, S; Robinson, K; Cando-Dumancela, C; Robinson, JM
Historically, bioaerosol research has focused on identifying and mitigating the harmful effects of airborne pathogens and particles. These bioaerosols—including bacteria, viruses, fungal spores, and non-biological particles, such as particulate matter up to 2.5 μm (PM2.5)—pose substantial risks to human and ecosystem health. They can contribute to diseases and adverse outcomes in humans, animals, plants, and their associated microbial communities. Researchers have concentrated on understanding transmission mechanisms, detecting and quantifying these agents, and developing control strategies. However, a recent paradigm shift in aerobiome thinking highlights the importance of beneficial bioaerosols in maintaining ecosystem and human health. Beneficial bioaerosols, such as salutogenic (health-promoting) microbiota, phytoncides (plant-derived organic compounds), pheromones, and potentially “aeronutrients” contribute to human health modulation and important ecosystem processes. This dual nature of bioaerosols necessitates a holistic approach to promote beneficial components while mitigating harmful ones. Here, we introduce a recently established initiative called the Aerobiome Innovation and Research Hub (AIR Hub), which aims to advance this interdisciplinary research. We call for action to further understand and leverage the beneficial biological components of air for both human and ecosystem health and present the results of an AIR Hub workshop “reverse brainstorming” session to identify novel opportunities and challenges. These include key barriers to advancing aerobiome science, such as poor communication, methodological complexity,and fragmented regulation. Solutions focused on clearer definitions, improved research methods, targeted communication, and stronger policy engagement. Finally, we present the key policy implications of advancing this aerobiome paradigm shift.

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