bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SDGs as Indicators of Holistic Small Town Tourism Development. A Case for Phuthaditjhaba South Africa
Authors: Sarudzai Mutana , Geofrey Mukwada
Published: January 2023

Mountainous small towns are often geographically isolated, lack access to main decision making centres and are in many cases plagued by incessant weather related natural disasters. While these realities reduce the options for economic activities available in these towns, the lifestyles, cultures of their residents, as well as their communities’ close relations with nature, make them attractive and unique tourism destinations. Many local leaders advocate for the opening of these towns to tourism for the expected economic benefits. However, tourism should be developed in a holistic manner in order to bring benefits to the economy, the host communities and the environment these destinations. In this chapter, Sustainable Development Goals 1, 2, 5, 8, 11, 12 and 13 are used to demonstrate that the achievement of holistic tourism development in the small town of Phuthaditjhaba relies heavily on the manner of development of tourism that respects the interconnectedness of these SDGs. The authors used critical discourse analysis of available literature, to conclude that tourism development in Phuthaditjhaba currently lacks balance between economic, environmental and socio-cultural benefits to the community, and suggested practical steps for the use of SDGs in planning and implementing tourism development in the lead-up to the year 2030.
Exploring the of Establishment of an Urban Forest in Phuthaditjhaba to Create a More Sustainable Future Urban Environment
Authors: Taylor Susan Jean
Published: January 2023

This document review evaluates modes of appropriate urban tree planting that could quickly (within 20 years) create a tree canopy in Phuthaditjhaba to provide social benefits, deal with a future urban heat island effect and create resilience to climate change. Phuthaditjhaba (pop. 54 000), a dense rural–urban settlement in QwaQwa, South Africa, faces looming threats linked to climate change, including health impacts as heat waves become more common and severe in southern Africa. One of the ways of creating a more liveable and sustainable urban environment is through tree planting in streets, schools, clinics and homesteads. Phuthaditjhaba, located in a montane grassland biome, is virtually treeless and a future tree canopy in this city would need to be envisaged and planned for. Challenges to growing trees here include the harsh climate and the shortage of water, the lack of a ‘green’ vision from the local municipality, as well as the cost of purchasing or growing thousands of suitable saplings. Modelling and various other forms of data and information gathering can assist in optimising tree species selection and planting, but data for Phuthaditjhaba is not available. Creating an urban tree canopy in Phuthaditjhaba would contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11 of making cities inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable. This study also reflects on ways to create livelihoods in this remote semi-urban setting through tree growing, tree planting, arbocare and landscape restoration measures.
Imagining the Future Phuthaditjhaba—Vision 2121
Authors: van Biljon Louw
Published: January 2023

The following issues need to be clarified before an approach is formulated which will facilitate the planning of a sustainable Phuthaditjhaba, South Africa: What is the essence of a long-term vision? How long is long-term? It is suggested that the short time horizons used in Integrated Development Plans (IDPs) and Spatial Development Frameworks (SDFs) are much too immediate and it is proposed that 100-year planning and a vision which corresponds to that time span should be employed. ‘Backcasting’, as a method to formulate such a vision, is proposed. This idealised strategy is counterpoised with current planning practice and the socio-spatial constraints of Phuthaditjhaba. Phuthaditjhaba’s Integrated Development Plan (IDP) and Spatial Development Framework (SDF) are analysed and an assessment made whether these two tools address or impede sustainable development.

What is meant by a sustainable city/community? A comparative analysis of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are made with three case study approaches to sustainable development. From this, a synthesis of substantive principles is proposed. It is also proposed that communities—rather than towns or cities—be acknowledged as the building blocks of sustainability. How then should a community be defined? Defining and demarcating communities based on people’s perceptions and experiences of their spatial environments is proposed, leaning on the methodology of Image and Place studies. Recommendations for planning are made whereby it is hoped that Phuthaditjhaba could become its vision as a sustainable montane city in Africa.
Conclusion
Authors: Membretti Andrea , Taylor Susan Jean , Delves Jess L.
Published: January 2023

In the conclusive chapter we underline that—in line with UN Agenda 2030—many research funding bodies now require researchers to explicitly address the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in their research design. Consultations with scientists and practitioners in Phuthaditjhaba during research for this book highlighted that the SDGs still do not currently have a prominent role in the scientific research in the region. Nevertheless, throughout this collective volume they have provided authors with an important reference point which helps frame local research in a global agenda. Mountain communities are often especially challenged by increased exposure and vulnerability to global change including climate change, and there is a need for on-going research to highlight local adaptation and mitigation strategies. These communities need to be recognised as partners in research, policy and decision-making processes. While the UN SDGs can be used as a roadmap towards a more sustainable future, this depends on their application by scientists, practitioners and policymakers at local level. The ongoing European-South African research partnership which produced this publication will continue providing a space for co-learning on data collection and analysis methods, within the theoretical framework jointly defined. Only with close collaboration between scientists from multiple disciplines, policymakers and civil society will a sustainable future for this African mountain city be possible.
Using Local Spatial Biodiversity Plans to Meet the Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Buschke Falko , Mosikidi Toka , le Roux Aliza , Mofokeng Lefu , Vanschoenwinkel Bram
Published: January 2023

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) represent global development ambitions, but achieving these goals depends on local-level application. Many local governments, especially in countries with emerging economies, lack the capacity and resources to integrate SDGs into municipal planning. The feasibility of local implementation is particularly challenging in areas with rugged topography and international borders, such as the Thabo Mofutsanyana District Municipality, South Africa, into which the city of Phuthaditjhaba falls. Here we explore the suitability of existing spatial biodiversity plans for local application in the six local municipalities within Thabo Mofutsanyana District. We considered four plans related to biodiversity and ecosystem services, including international maps of (1) Key Biodiversity Areas and (2) Strategic Water Source Areas; a national (3) Protected Area Expansion Strategy; and a provincial map of (4) Critical Biodiversity Areas. Although these plans were not designed specifically to meet the SDGs, we show that they can be repurposed to address seven of the 17 SDGs. Next, we summarised the spatial coverage of each plan across the six local municipalities and evaluated the opportunities and shortcomings of using these plans for local application. Our findings guide local officials on the most efficient way to plan for the SDGs using currently available spatial products.
Beneficial Role of Pollination and Soil Fertility for Soybean Production in Mountainous Farming Conditions
Authors: Adelabu Dolapo Bola , Franke Angelinus C.
Published: January 2023

The synergetic potentials of essential ecosystem services have not been well explored under mountainous farming conditions in southern Africa. Cropping practices that maximize beneficial pollinators and reduce dependency on chemical inputs through efficient crop management in the mountainous environment are needed. The synergetic potentials of insect pollination on soybeans under varying soil fertility during two seasons in Phuthaditjhaba, the Free State, South Africa was examined. We manipulated soil fertility with fertilizer treatments and used exclusion bags to manipulate pollination intensity. High intensity of pollination services increased the seed yield by approximately 0.5 tons per hectare on optimally fertilized soil and 0.3 tons per hectare on minimally fertilized soil. This study found complementary benefits of using appropriate fertilizer rates on crop pollination. It is an efficient way to minimize losses in crop production and improve yields. However, minimal fertilizer application that is common among smallholder farmers still gave substantial yield in insect pollinator-rich environments such as Phuthaditjhaba. This finding gives an immense advantage to farmers in Phuthaditjhaba who tend to minimize the use of fertilizer due to financial issues. Harnessing the prospects from these ecosystem service benefits would help local communities to attain sustainable food production (SDGs 2 and 15).
Afromontane Community’s Dependence on the Water and Climate Change Nexus of the Maloti-Drakensberg Mountain Range: The Case of Phuthaditjhaba
Authors: Sekhele Ntebohiseng , Otomo Patricks Voua
Published: January 2023

Phuthaditjhaba is situated at the foothills of the Maloti-Drakensberg, one of southern Africa’s primary water-producing regions. Nevertheless, the region suffers from a recurring lack of sufficient water for domestic and agricultural use. Since 2015, this chronic water crisis has created a state of conflict between the inhabitants of the region and the local government. Against the backdrop of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, this paper provides a commentary on the contrasting realities of this town nestled within one of South Africa’s most biodiverse regions, yet lacking in the very resource for which it is supposedly famous. We identify both gross mismanagement and neglect by local municipal authorities and climate change as compounding factors leading to the recurring lack of sufficient good quality water in the region. These are some of the major threats to sustainable development in Phuthaditjhaba, which may exacerbate poverty and escalate social tensions that often burst into spontaneous social unrest in the town and its surroundings.
Planning for Effective and Sustainable Water Access and Provision in QwaQwa Through the UN Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Mocwagae Kgosi , Mphambukeli Thulisile
Published: January 2023

QwaQwa is a former Bantustan, which consisted of 13 sections of the Phuthaditjhaba Township and 99 surrounding villages. On 1 January 2016, the Maluti-a-Phofung Local Municipality reported that the Fika Patso Dam, which supplies the majority of water to QwaQwa, had insufficient water, subsequently shutting it down. The community of QwaQwa had reportedly been struggling to access drinking water since 2016, which forced them to collect water from provisional or improvised municipal water tankers. This chapter documents the lived experiences of 11 communities in the greater QwaQwa area, highlighting their struggle to access adequate drinking water. The chapter proposes planning interventions for effective and sustainable water access and provision in QwaQwa. It also looks at Sustainable Development Goals 6 and 11 to address policy issues toward effective and sustainable water provision in QwaQwa. The study employed an exploratory sequential mixed-methods approach. The qualitative method administered 10 semi-structured interviews with key informants (municipal officials and political leaders) and three households for 326 min in total. A total of 571 household questionnaires were administered for quantitative data collection. Discourse and thematic methods were used for the qualitative data analysis, and descriptive and inferential statistics for the quantitative data analysis. The study established that post-apartheid’s ineffective planning for water access in QwaQwa, significantly and negatively affected the greater QwaQwa community, resulting in the local communities having to travel long distances to collect water. It took more time to collect water, while the water quantity decreased with an increased cost of accessing water. The misfortune of the QwaQwa water crisis presents a challenge for the attainment of UN Sustainable Development Goals 6 and 11 that require basic service provision and making cities more inclusive by the municipality.
Policy for AI as a System Technology
Authors: Sheikh Haroon , Prins Corien , Schrijvers Erik
Published: January 2023

Artificial intelligence is not just another technology – it is a ‘system technology’ that will fundamentally change our society. That is the key message of this report. Government and society therefore need to be much more aware of and actively involved in AI’s integration into daily life. The government in particular needs to focus on five overarching tasks to help shape the integration process, because only then will it be able to continue to protect the civic values affected by AI. Such a challenge demands a policy infrastructure that reflects both a political and an administrative commitment.
AI as a System Technology
Authors: Sheikh Haroon , Prins Corien , Schrijvers Erik
Published: January 2023

Now we know what AI is and have seen how the technology has made the transition from the lab to society in recent years, we turn our attention to the process of embedding AI into society. What is required to incorporate AI into our society? To answer that question, this chapter presents a framework within which AI can be viewed as a particular type of technology, namely a system technology, with a number of historical precedents. By viewing AI in this way, we can draw various conclusions from the history of other system technologies. That in turn provides a basis for reflecting on what we need to do with AI and how we can address the many issues associated with it. It is not our intention to imply that history always repeats itself or that technological development has deterministic characteristics. We do not set out a rigid framework but identify general patterns that shed light on the present, while recognizing that the past and the present differ. By adopting this approach, we seek to look beyond the current situation and thus beyond the whims of the day.
International Positioning
Authors: Sheikh Haroon , Prins Corien , Schrijvers Erik
Published: January 2023

The final overarching task we have identified concerns a country’s international positioning in the field of AI. This task is slightly different from the previous four because it plays out at a level influenced to some degree by all of them. Myths about AI also exist in the international domain, which are addressed in the international media and by international companies and research institutes. Several issues of contextualization also have an international dimension. For example, the global discussion about the rollout of 5G and European ambitions to develop a common data infrastructure (such as Gaia-X) affect the development of the technical ecosystem for AI. Stakeholder engagement can affect the local or national situation, but also has an international dimension; for example, in the role played by global scientific associations and NGOs. To a large extent the international arena is also where applicable regulation is implemented, such as treaties that govern dangerous applications of technology, ethical guidelines or the EU’s ambitions to regulate AI.
On the Development of a European Tracker of Societal Issues and Economic Activities Using Alternative Data
Authors: Consoli Sergio , Colagrossi Marco , Panella Francesco , Barbaglia Luca
Published: January 2023

We provide an overview on the development of a tracker of economic activities and societal issues across EU member states mining alternative data sources, that can be used to complement official statistics. Considered alternative datasets include Google Searches, Dow Jones Data, News and Analytics (DNA), and the Global Dataset of Events, Language and Tone (GDELT). After providing an overview on the methodology under current development, some preliminary findings are also given.
Advancements in the Sine Cosine Algorithm
Authors: Bansal Jagdish Chand , Bajpai Prathu , Rawat Anjali , Nagar Atulya K.
Published: January 2023

In the last few decades, the development and advancement of meta-heuristic algorithms have become the focus of the research community as these algorithms face various challenges like, balance between exploration and exploitation, tuning of parameters, getting trapped in local optima, and very slow convergence rate. Sine cosine algorithm (SCA) also faces similar kinds of challenges and sometimes fails to perform effectively in finding the global optimal solution. Sine and cosine are trigonometric operators with a 90$$^\circ $$phase shift from each other. The range of sine and cosine functions lies in the range$$[-1,1]$$. Sine and cosine functions in the position update equation of SCA help solutions to perform search procedure. However, in some situations, SCA promotes similar solutions in the search space, which results in the loss of diversity in the population, and the search process is susceptible to trapping in the region of local optimum [1]. Motivated by these challenges, SCA has been modified to improve its capability and efficiency in several ways. Several strategies have been employed to alter the basic version of SCA [2], aiming to enhance its effectiveness and optimization capabilities. In this chapter, we will discuss about these modifications and strategies, which have been incorporated into the sine cosine algorithm (SCA) in past few years. Apart from this, we will briefly describe the applications of the modified versions of SCA.
EGFL7 loss correlates with increased VEGF-D expression, upregulating hippocampal adult neurogenesis and improving spatial learning and memory
Authors: Barth Kathrin , Vasić Verica , McDonald Brennan , Heinig Nora , Wagner Marc-Christoph , Schumann Ulrike , Röhlecke Cora , Bicker Frank , Schumann Lana , Radyushkin Konstantin , Baumgart Jan , Tenzer Stefan , Zipp Frauke , Meinhardt Matthias , Alitalo Kari , Tegeder Irmgard , Schmidt Mirko H. H.
Published: January 2023

Neural stem cells reside in the subgranular zone, a specialized neurogenic niche of the hippocampus. Throughout adulthood, these cells give rise to neurons in the dentate gyrus, playing an important role in learning and memory. Given that these core cognitive processes are disrupted in numerous disease states, understanding the underlying mechanisms of neural stem cell proliferation in the subgranular zone is of direct practical interest. Here, we report that mature neurons, neural stem cells and neural precursor cells each secrete the neurovascular protein epidermal growth factor-like protein 7 (EGFL7) to shape this hippocampal niche. We further demonstrate that EGFL7 knock-out in a Nestin-CreERT2-based mouse model produces a pronounced upregulation of neurogenesis within the subgranular zone. RNA sequencing identified that the increased expression of the cytokine VEGF-D correlates significantly with the ablation of EGFL7. We substantiate this finding with intraventricular infusion of VEGF-D upregulating neurogenesis in vivo and further show that VEGF-D knock-out produces a downregulation of neurogenesis. Finally, behavioral studies in EGFL7 knock-out mice demonstrate greater maintenance of spatial memory and improved memory consolidation in the hippocampus by modulation of pattern separation. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that both EGFL7 and VEGF-D affect neurogenesis in the adult hippocampus, with the ablation of EGFL7 upregulating neurogenesis, increasing spatial learning and memory, and correlating with increased VEGF-D expression.
Five-year illness trajectories across racial groups in the UK following a first episode psychosis
Authors: Griffiths Siân Lowri , Bogatsu Tumelo , Longhi Mia , Butler Emily , Alexander Beel , Bandawar Mrunal , Everard Linda , Jones Peter B. , Fowler David , Hodgekins Joanne , Amos Tim , Freemantle Nick , McCrone Paul , Singh Swaran P. , Birchwood Max , Upthegrove Rachel
Published: January 2023

Purpose

Psychosis disproportionally affects ethnic minority groups in high-income countries, yet evidence of disparities in outcomes following intensive early intervention service (EIS) for First Episode Psychosis (FEP) is less conclusive. We investigated 5-year clinical and social outcomes of young people with FEP from different racial groups following EIS care.

Method

Data were analysed from the UK-wide NIHR SUPEREDEN study. The sample at baseline (n = 978) included White (n = 750), Black (n = 71), and Asian (n = 157) individuals, assessed during the 3 years of EIS, and up to 2 years post-discharge (n = 296; Black [n = 23]; Asian [n = 52] and White [n = 221]). Outcome trajectories were modelled for psychosis symptoms (positive, negative, and general), functioning, and depression, using linear mixed effect models (with random intercept and slopes), whilst controlling for social deprivation. Discharge service was also explored across racial groups, 2 years following EIS.

Results

Variation in linear growth over time was accounted for by racial group status for psychosis symptoms—positive (95% CI [0.679, 1.235]), negative (95% CI [0.315, 0.783]), and general (95% CI [1.961, 3.428])—as well as for functioning (95% CI [11.212, 17.677]) and depressive symptoms (95% CI [0.261, 0.648]). Social deprivation contributed to this variance. Black individuals experienced greater levels of deprivation (p < 0.001, 95% CI [0.187, 0.624]). Finally, there was a greater likelihood for Asian (OR = 3.04; 95% CI [2.050, 4.498]) and Black individuals (OR = 2.47; 95% CI [1.354, 4.520]) to remain in secondary care by follow-up.

Conclusion

Findings suggest variations in long-term clinical and social outcomes following EIS across racial groups; social deprivation contributed to this variance. Black and Asian individuals appear to make less improvement in long-term recovery and are less likely to be discharged from mental health services. Replication is needed in large, complete data, to fully understand disparities and blind spots to care.
Divisibility of polynomials and degeneracy of integral points
Authors: Rousseau Erwan , Turchet Amos , Wang Julie Tzu-Yueh
Published: January 2023

We prove several statements about arithmetic hyperbolicity of certain blow-up varieties. As a corollary we obtain multiple examples of simply connected quasi-projective varieties that are pseudo-arithmetically hyperbolic. This generalizes results of Corvaja and Zannier obtained in dimension 2 to arbitrary dimension. The key input is an application of the Ru–Vojta’s strategy. We also obtain the analogue results for function fields and Nevanlinna theory with the goal to apply them in a future paper in the context of Campana’s conjectures.
Predictors for response to electronic patient-reported outcomes in routine care in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Wiegel Jimmy , Seppen Bart F. , Nurmohamed Michael T. , ter Wee Marieke M. , Bos Wouter H.
Published: January 2023

Routine collection of electronic patient-reported outcomes (ePROs) can improve clinical care. However, a low response rate may counteract the benefits. To optimize adoption, the aim of this study was to investigate which patient factors and/or timing of the invitation predicted response to ePROs sent prior to consultations in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. We performed a retrospective database study with clinical data collected as part of usual care from the electronic medical records at Reade Amsterdam. The dataset comprised the email invitations to complete the ePRO sent prior to consultation. Multiple patient factors and factors defining the timing of the invitation were investigated if they predicted response to the ePRO through a multivariable logistic generalized estimating equation analysis. In total, 17.070 ePRO invitations were sent to 3194 patients (mean age 60 (SD 14), 74% female), of which 40% was completed. Patients between 55 and 73 years (OR 1.39, 95%CI 1.09–1.77) and with higher social economic status (SES) (OR 1.51, 95%CI 1.22–1.88) had significantly higher odds for completing the ePRO, while patients living in an urban area had lower odds (OR 0.69, 95% CI 0.62–0.76). In year 4 after implementation, the OR was increased to 3.69 (95% CI 2.91–4.90). The implementation of ePROs in daily clinical practice needs improvement since 40% of the ePROs sent prior to consultations were completed. Patients that had higher odds to report the next ePRO were between the age of 55–73, had a higher socio-economic status, and were residents in a rural area. The adoption of reporting the PRO increased over time, but the timing of the prompt did not predict response. Additional research is needed to understand ePRO completion, especially for patients with lower socio-economic status.
Quality of life, health-related quality of life, and associated factors in Huntington’s disease: a systematic review
Authors: van Lonkhuizen Pearl J. C. , Frank Wiebke , Heemskerk Anne-Wil , van Duijn Erik , de Bot Susanne T. , Mühlbäck Alzbeta , Landwehrmeyer G. Bernhard , Chavannes Niels H. , Meijer Eline ,   the HEALTHE-RND consortium, Chavannes Niels H. , de Bot Susanne T. , van Lonkhuizen Pearl J. C , Landwehrmeyer G. Bernhard , Steck Franziska , Klempíř Jiří , Konvalinková Romama , Bezuchová Eva , Dolečková Kristýna , Klempířová Olga , Roth Jan , Ulmanová Olga , Squitieri Ferdinando , Maffi Sabrina , Scaricamazza Eugenia , Migliore Simone , Di Giorgio Chiara , D’Alessio Barbara , Casella Melissa , Hoblyn Jennifer , Thangaramanujam Muthukumaran , Burke Tom , O’Malley Emer , McKenna Stephen , McKenna Ian , Thorpe Jeanette , Coffey Anna , Moldovan Ramona , Foley Peter , Kerr Jacqueline
Published: January 2023

Background

Huntington’s disease (HD) is a genetic, neurodegenerative disease. Due to the progressive nature of HD and the absence of a cure, (health-related) quality of life ((HR)QoL) is an important topic. Several studies have investigated (HR)QoL in HD, yet a clear synthesis of the existing literature is lacking to date. We performed a systematic review on self-reported (HR)QoL, and factors and intervention effects associated with (HR)QoL in premanifest and manifest HD gene expansion carriers (pHDGECs and mHDGECs, respectively).

Methods

PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and PsycINFO were searched systematically from September 17th, 2021, up to August 11th, 2022. Methodological and conceptual quality of the included studies was assessed with two appraisal tools.

Results

30 out of 70 eligible articles were included. mHDGECs experienced lower (HR)QoL compared to pHDGECs and controls, whereas mixed findings were reported when compared to other neurological diseases. Several factors were associated with (HR)QoL that might contribute to lower (HR)QoL in mHDGECs, including depressive symptoms, physical and psychological symptoms, lower functional capacity, lower support, and unmet needs. Multidisciplinary rehabilitation programs and a respiratory muscle training were beneficial for (HR)QoL in mHDGECs.

Discussion

(HR)QoL is experienced differently across the course of the disease. Although (HR)QoL is key for understanding the impact of HD and the effect of symptomatic treatment, there is a need to improve the methodological and conceptual shortcomings that were found in most studies, especially regarding the conceptual clarity when reporting on QoL and HRQoL. Suggestions for strengthening these shortcomings are provided in this review.
Exercise-induced skeletal muscle angiogenesis: impact of age, sex, angiocrines and cellular mediators
Authors: Ross Mark , Kargl Christopher K. , Ferguson Richard , Gavin Timothy P. , Hellsten Ylva
Published: January 2023

Exercise-induced skeletal muscle angiogenesis is a well-known physiological adaptation that occurs in humans in response to exercise training and can lead to endurance performance benefits, as well as improvements in cardiovascular and skeletal tissue health. An increase in capillary density in skeletal muscle improves diffusive oxygen exchange and waste extraction, and thus greater fatigue resistance, which has application to athletes but also to the general population. Exercise-induced angiogenesis can significantly contribute to improvements in cardiovascular and metabolic health, such as the increase in muscle glucose uptake, important for the prevention of diabetes. Recently, our understanding of the mechanisms by which angiogenesis occurs with exercise has grown substantially. This review will detail the biochemical, cellular and biomechanical signals for exercise-induced skeletal muscle angiogenesis, including recent work on extracellular vesicles and circulating angiogenic cells. In addition, the influence of age, sex, exercise intensity/duration, as well as recent observations with the use of blood flow restricted exercise, will also be discussed in detail. This review will provide academics and practitioners with mechanistic and applied evidence for optimising training interventions to promote physical performance through manipulating capillarisation in skeletal muscle.
Status of the H2020-ROBOMINERS Prototype
Authors: Berner Michael , Sifferlinger Nikolaus August
Published: January 2023

This article presents the current status of the H2020-ROBOMINERS project with focus on the prototype to be developed. The aim of this project is the development of a small-scale mining robot, which will be capable of exploring difficult to access deposits with the ability of selective mining underground, under water, and in slurries. Considerably low weight and power are challenges to be overcome. Environment-friendliness is secured by powering the entire robot water-hydraulically. Core element of the robominer is the main module, in which the locomotion and powering system will be implemented. Additional elements in the robot are sensors for navigation and perception and a production tool to excavate small amounts of material. The locomotion system consists of an Archimedes-screw mechanism, which can be extended in radial direction and used as grippers inside a tunnel to increase its traction capacity. Selective perception tools help the mining robot navigate in harsh terrains and find the ore. A small-scale longitudinal part-face cutter head has been selected as an excavation tool. This cutter head has been tested extensively in the laboratory by performing cutting tests with several rock samples. The performance allows a continuous excavation of soft rock material (successful tests with reasonable excavation rate up to a uniaxial compressive strength of 30 MPa). The mined ore is then slurrified and transported to a processing station. On-board analysis equipment using specializsed sensing systems allows the robot to analyse the slurry composition in real-time. The demonstration and final test of the full-scale prototype are planned in an open-pit oilshale mine. Eventually, the project will serve as a guideline for future mining robots including feasibility studies of different robot designs, potential mine layouts and mining scenarios as well as various excavation tools for different rock conditions.
Implementierung eines Notfallmanagements auf Tunnelbaustellen
Authors: Halwachs Michael , Sifferlinger Nikolaus August
Published: January 2023

Das erhöhte Risiko für Arbeitnehmer und Einsatzorganisationen bei der Bewältigung von Notfällen auf Tunnelbaustellen muss bereits im Risikomanagementprozess für Planung und Umsetzung von Sicherheit und Gesundheitsschutz festgelegt werden. Dazu zählen auch Maßnahmen im Sinne des Notfall- und Krisenmanagements. Um Risiken, die plötzlich und ohne Vorwarnung eintreten können, durch eine rasche Reaktion begrenzen zu können, ist bereits in der Planungsphase die grundsätzliche Konzeption der Zusammenarbeit mit den Einsatzorganisationen abzustimmen. In der Ausführungsphase ist das ausgearbeitete Notfallmanagement durch regelmäßige Begehungen und Übungen mit den Einsatzorganisationen baufortschrittsbezogen abzustimmen und anzupassen. Im Zuge der Übungsnachbereitung müssen die Erkenntnisse evaluiert und dem kontinuierlichen Verbesserungsprozesses des Krisen- und Notfallmanagements zugeführt werden.
Anterior thoracolumbar column reconstruction with the vertebral body stent—safety and efficacy
Authors: Oswald Katharina A. C. , Kälin Joel , Tinner Christian , Deml Moritz C. , Bigdon Sebastian F. , Hoppe Sven , Benneker Lorin M. , Albers Christoph E.
Published: January 2023

Purpose

The aim of this study was to assess safety and efficacy of vertebral body stenting (VBS) by analyzing (1) radiographic outcome, (2) clinical outcome, and (3) perioperative complications in patients with vertebral compression fractures treated with VBS at minimum 6-month follow-up.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, 78 patients (61 ± 14 [21–90] years; 67% female) who have received a vertebral body stent due to a traumatic, osteoporotic or metastatic thoracolumbar compression fracture at our hospital between 2012 and 2020 were included. Median follow-up was 0.9 years with a minimum follow-up of 6 months. Radiographic and clinical outcome was analyzed directly, 6 weeks, 12 weeks, 6 months postoperatively, and at last follow-up.

Results

Anterior vertebral body height of all patients improved significantly by mean 6.2 ± 4.8 mm directly postoperatively (p < 0.0001) and remained at 4.3 ± 5.1 mm at last follow-up compared to preoperatively (p < 0.0001). The fracture kyphosis angle of all patients improved significantly by mean 5.8 ± 6.9 degrees directly postoperatively (p < 0.0001) and remained at mean 4.9 ± 6.9 degrees at last follow-up compared to preoperatively (p < 0.0001). The segmental kyphosis angle of all patients improved significantly by mean 7.1 ± 7.6 degrees directly postoperatively (p < 0.0001) and remained at mean 2.8 ± 7.8 degrees at last follow-up compared to preoperatively (p = 0.03). Back pain was ameliorated from a preoperative median Numeric Rating Scale value of 6.5 to 3.0 directly postoperatively and further bettered to 1.0 six months postoperatively (p = 0.0001). Revision surgery was required in one patient after 0.4 years.

Conclusion

Vertebral body stenting is a safe and effective treatment option for osteoporotic, traumatic and metastatic compression fractures.
Effects of the COVID-19 school lockdowns on language and math performance of students in elementary schools: implications for educational practice and reducing inequality
Authors: Oostdam Ron , van Diepen Mieke , Zijlstra Bonne , Fukkink Ruben
Published: January 2023

The current study investigates the effects of the school lockdowns during school years 2019–2020 and 2020–2021 on the achievement scores of primary school students during the COVID-19 pandemic. We analyzed scores for spelling, reading fluency (i.e., decoding speed), reading comprehension, and mathematics from standardized student tracking systems for 5125 students from 26 primary schools in the urban region of The Hague, the Netherlands. Results showed that students in grades 1 through 3 had significant learning delays after the first lockdown. However, results after the second lockdown showed that most students were able to catch up, compared to students from corresponding grades of cohorts before COVID-19. The magnitude of these positive effects was mostly close to the negative effect of the first lockdown. Apparently, during the second lockdown, schools seemed better prepared and able to deliver more effective home schooling and online instruction. The hypothesis that students’ learning from a low SES home environment will suffer most from the school lockdowns could only partly be confirmed. SES effects at the individual level tended to be mitigated by negative effects of SES at the school level, making SES-related differences between schools less profound. The findings of this study offer a broader perspective to evaluate the effects of long-term school closures. Implications for educational practice and issues of inequality between students are discussed.
The Multi-Causal Basis of Developmental Potential Construction
Authors: Vecchi Davide , Santos Gil
Published: January 2023

In this article we analyse the issue of what accounts for developmental potential, i.e., the possible phenotypes a developing organism can manifest during ontogeny. We shall argue in favour of two theses. First, although the developing organism is the unit of development, the complete causal basis for its potential to develop does neither lie entirely in itself as a whole nor in any specific part of itself (such as its genome). Thus, the extra-organismal environment must be counted as one of the three necessary, partial and complementary causal bases for development potential. Secondly, we shall defend a constructivist view of the developmental process. If the genome, the developing organism and the extra-organismal environment are to be counted as proper elements of the causal basis for an organism’s developmental potential, the latter is not a given. Rather, it is the result of an interaction-based construction, a process sometimes generating genuine developmental novelty. We will thus argue for an interactionist multi-causal basis view of developmental potential construction. We contend that our view provides a biologically tenable and metaphysically coherent account of developmental dynamics.
The effect of sampling effort and methodology on range size estimates of poorly-recorded species for IUCN Red List assessments
Authors: Marsh Charles J. , Syfert Mindy M. , Aletrari Elina , Gavish Yoni , Kunin William E. , Brummitt Neil
Published: January 2023

Geographic range size is the most commonly implemented criterion of species’ extinction risk used in IUCN Red List assessments, especially for poorly-recorded species. IUCN applies two contrasting range size measures to capture different facets of a species’ distribution: Extent of Occurrence (EOO; Criterion B1) is the area bounding all known occurrences and is a proxy for the spatial autocorrelation of risk, while the Area of Occupancy (AOO; Criterion B2) is the area occupied within this boundary and is related to population size at finer grains. Various methods have been proposed to measure both EOO and AOO. We evaluate the impact of applying four methods for each of Criterion B1 and of B2, as well as key parameter choices, on the Red List status of 227 poorly-recorded neotropical pteridophyte species. Between 2 and 100% of species would be considered threatened depending on methodology. The minimum convex polygon method of estimating EOO was relatively robust to sampling effort for all but the least-recorded species. The IUCN-recommended method for estimating AOO of summing occupied 2 × 2 km grid cells was very strongly correlated with the total number of records. It is likely that only a small fraction of species can be adequately assessed using this method, and we recommend caution applying the method to poorly-recorded species in particular, where models predicting occupancy in unsampled areas (e.g. species distribution models) may provide more accurate assessments. It is vital that methodological information is retained with assessments, and comparisons should only be made between assessments utilising equivalent methods.
Modal-Logical Reconstructions of Thought Experiments
Authors: Mulder R. A. , Muller F.A.
Published: January 2023

Sorensen (Thought experiments, Oxford University Press, New York, 1992) has provided two modal-logical schemas to reconstruct the logical structure of two types of destructive thought experiments: the Necessity Refuter and the Possibility Refuter. The schemas consist of five propositions which Sorensen claims but does not prove to be inconsistent. We show that the five propositions, as presented by Sorensen, are not inconsistent, but by adding a premise (and a logical truth), we prove that the resulting sextet of premises is inconsistent. Häggqvist (Can J Philos 39(1):55–76, 2009) has provided a different modal-logical schema (Counterfactual Refuter), which is equivalent to four premises, again claimed to be inconsistent. We show that this schema also is not inconsistent, for similar reasons. Again, we add another premise to achieve inconsistency. The conclusion is that all three modal-logical reconstructions of the arguments that accompany thought experiments, two by Sorensen and one by Häggqvist, have now been made rigorously correct. This may inaugurate new avenues to respond to destructive thought experiments.
Setting Physical Activity Goals with a Virtual Coach: Vicarious Experiences, Personalization and Acceptance
Authors: Albers Nele , Hizli Beyza , Scheltinga Bouke L. , Meijer Eline , Brinkman Willem-Paul
Published: January 2023

Goal-setting is often used in eHealth applications for behavior change as it motivates and helps to stay focused on a desired outcome. However, for goals to be effective, they need to meet criteria such as being specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and time-bound (SMART). Moreover, people need to be confident to reach their goal. We thus created a goal-setting dialog in which the virtual coach Jody guided people in setting SMART goals. Thereby, Jody provided personalized vicarious experiences by showing examples from other people who reached a goal to increase people’s confidence. These experiences were personalized, as it is helpful to observe a relatable other succeed. Data from an online study with a between-subjects with pre-post measurement design (n=39 participants) provide credible support that personalized experiences are seen as more motivating than generic ones. Motivational factors for participants included information about the goal, path to the goal, and the person who accomplished a goal, as well as the mere fact that a goal was reached. Participants also had a positive attitude toward Jody. We see these results as an indication that people are positive toward using a goal-setting dialog with a virtual coach in eHealth applications for behavior change. Moreover, contrary to hypothesized, our observed data give credible support that participants’ self-efficacy was lower after the dialog than before. These results warrant further research on how such dialogs affect self-efficacy, especially whether these lower post-measurements of self-efficacy are associated with people’s more realistic assessment of their abilities.
Impacts of forest management on stand and landscape-level microclimate heterogeneity of European beech forests
Authors: Menge Joscha H. , Magdon Paul , Wöllauer Stephan , Ehbrecht Martin
Published: January 2023

Context

Forest microclimate influences biodiversity and plays a crucial role in regulating forest ecosystem functions. It is modified by forest management as a result of changes in forest structure due to tree harvesting and thinning.

Objectives

Here, we investigate the impacts of even-aged and uneven-aged forest management on stand- and landscape-level heterogeneity of forest microclimates, in comparison with unmanaged, old-growth European beech forest.

Methods

We combined stand structural and topographical indices derived from airborne laser scanning with climate observations from 23 meteorological stations at permanent forest plots within the Hainich region, Germany. Based on a multiple linear regression model, we spatially interpolated the diurnal temperature range (DTR) as an indicator of forest microclimate across a 4338 ha section of the forest with 50 m spatial resolution. Microclimate heterogeneity was measured as α-, β-, and γ-diversity of thermal niches (i.e. DTR classes).

Results

Even-aged forests showed a higher γ-diversity of microclimates than uneven-aged and unmanaged forests. This was mainly due to a higher β-diversity resulting from the spatial coexistence of different forest developmental stages within the landscape. The greater structural complexity at the stand-level in uneven-aged stands did not increase α-diversity of microclimates. Predicted DTR was significantly lower and spatially more homogenous in unmanaged forest compared to both types of managed forest.

Conclusion

If forest management aims at creating a wide range of habitats with different microclimates within a landscape, spatially co-existing types of differently managed and unmanaged forests should be considered, instead of focusing on a specific type of management, or setting aside forest reserves only.
Epistemic deontology, epistemic trade-offs, and Kant’s formula of humanity
Authors: Andow James
Published: January 2023

An epistemic deontology modelled on Kant’s ethics—in particular the humanity formula of the categorical imperative—is a promising alternative to epistemic consequentialism because it can forbid intuitively impermissible epistemic trade-offs which epistemic consequentialism seems doomed to permit and, most importantly, it can do so in a way that is not ad hoc.
Pumpkin seed oil–supplemented diets promoted the growth productivity, antioxidative capacity, and immune response in heat-stressed growing rabbits
Authors: Abdelnour Sameh A. , Metwally Mohamed G. E. , Bahgat Laila B. , Naiel Mohammed A. E.
Published: January 2023

Heat stress is the most major environmental element contributing to rabbit health problems and reduced production. It is proposed that essential oils be applied to alleviate heat stress-induced oxidative damage in rabbits. The purpose of this feeding trial was to determine the protective impact of pumpkin seed essential oil (PSO)–supplemented diets in reducing the threat of unambient temperature on growing rabbits. Five groups of 5-week-old rabbits were allocated randomly into separated galvanized wire battery. The first group was raised under normal conditions (18 ± 2 °C) and fed a control diet (control group; CNT), whereas the other four groups were exposed to high ambient temperature (38 ± 2 °C) and fed a control diet supplemented with 0 (PSO0.0), 0.5 (PSO0.05), 1.0 (PSO1.0), and 2.0 (PSO2.0) mL PSO/kg diet. Results indicated that all supplemented groups and the positive control have higher live body weight compared with the heat stress group (PSO0.0) at 9 weeks of age. Supplementing of PSO resulted in significant improvement in weight gain at 5–9 weeks and 9–13 weeks compared with PSO0.0 group. The highest feed intake was detected in PSO0.05 group compared with that in other groups. Both PSO2.0 and PSO2.0 groups showed the lowest feed conversion ration compared with other groups. Heat-stressed rabbits given a high dose of PSO (1 to 2 mL) had higher hemoglobin concentrations and lower white blood cell counts throughout the experiment than those given a control diet and subjected to heat stress. All hepatic and renal function parameters improved significantly in the rabbits fed a high dose of PSO as compared to the heat-stressed control group, while protein constituents were significantly higher in experimental groups fed 2 mL PSO compared with other groups. Heat-stressed rabbits administered graded amounts of PSO had the lowest plasma glucose, cortisol, thyroid, and corticosterone concentrations and were noticed to be equivalent to the control group fed unsupplemented diet and reared under normal conditions. The immunohistochemistry analysis demonstrated that rabbit groups reared under heat stress and given 2 mL PSO supplemented diets had negative caspase-3 immunoreactivity surrounding portal tract and normal structure. In conclusion, adding pumpkin seed oil up to 2 mL/kg diet for growing rabbits is indorsed to promote growth as well as antioxidant and immunological status under heat stress conditions.