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<title>Understanding digital inequality in education through a theoretical kaleidoscope</title>
<link>https://theacademic.com/kaleidoscope-understanding-digital-inequality-education/</link>
<comments>https://theacademic.com/kaleidoscope-understanding-digital-inequality-education/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Sandra Abegglen]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Mon, 13 May 2024 16:35:14 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Artificial intelligence]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Education]]></category>
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<category><![CDATA[Bath Spa University]]></category>
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<category><![CDATA[Multi-lens Approach]]></category>
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<category><![CDATA[Queen's University Belfast]]></category>
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<category><![CDATA[University of Calgary]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[University of Cape Town]]></category>
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<guid isPermaLink="false">https://theacademic.com/?p=10172</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Digital inequality challenges educators to navigate a complex landscape of disparities, urging a kaleidoscopic exploration
The post <a href="https://theacademic.com/kaleidoscope-understanding-digital-inequality-education/">Understanding digital inequality in education through a theoretical kaleidoscope</a> first appeared on <a href="https://theacademic.com">The Academic</a>.]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Academics worldwide shifted to online teaching due to COVID-19 in March 2020. This sudden change exposed stark inequalities in <a href="https://theacademic.com/modernizing-education-data-driven-world/" title="digital education">digital education</a>. The transition highlighted issues like unequal access to technology and support. As a response, a study titled “Understanding Digital Inequality: A Theoretical Kaleidoscope” was prompted. This research aims to explore and address these disparities comprehensively.
<blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow">
Our starting point is that digital inequality is a complex phenomenon and that different theoretical approaches may help to diagnose different aspects of what is wrong and why.
<cite>Sandra Abegglen</cite></blockquote>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Kaleidoscope: The digital and the losses for human flourishing</h2>
Digital inequality is complex, and various theoretical approaches can shed light on different aspects of the issue. Imagine a kaleidoscope where each turn reveals unique perspectives. Similarly, different theories and individuals contribute to our understanding of digital inequality, each adding to the overall picture.
A collective effort was essential for our exploration, as several contributors gathered to discuss various theoretical viewpoints. We aimed to challenge the widespread belief that technology invariably improves education. Our goal was to delve deeper into the uneven distribution of power, both socially and educationally, and its impact on people’s interactions with technology. It is important to problematise the relatively unchallenged notion that technology “enhances” teaching and learning and that technology will solve the challenges of addressing the needs of “the poor” in education, at scale.
Although it may seem theoretical, our approach offers practical and educational benefits. By identifying connections between different theories, we can address digital inequality more comprehensively and inclusively. However, this process is akin to looking through a kaleidoscope – sometimes uncertain and complex. Yet, by embracing this uncertainty, we can uncover overlooked tensions and address societal injustices.
<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-large"><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" width="1024" height="1024" src="https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/neliti_Through_the_kaleidoscope_Understanding_digital_inequalit_feeb6cf1-fd37-4307-9bd6-63b364843aef-1024x1024.png" alt="" class="wp-image-10210" srcset="https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/neliti_Through_the_kaleidoscope_Understanding_digital_inequalit_feeb6cf1-fd37-4307-9bd6-63b364843aef-1024x1024.png 1024w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/neliti_Through_the_kaleidoscope_Understanding_digital_inequalit_feeb6cf1-fd37-4307-9bd6-63b364843aef-300x300.png 300w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/neliti_Through_the_kaleidoscope_Understanding_digital_inequalit_feeb6cf1-fd37-4307-9bd6-63b364843aef-150x150.png 150w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/neliti_Through_the_kaleidoscope_Understanding_digital_inequalit_feeb6cf1-fd37-4307-9bd6-63b364843aef-768x768.png 768w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/neliti_Through_the_kaleidoscope_Understanding_digital_inequalit_feeb6cf1-fd37-4307-9bd6-63b364843aef-1536x1536.png 1536w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/neliti_Through_the_kaleidoscope_Understanding_digital_inequalit_feeb6cf1-fd37-4307-9bd6-63b364843aef-12x12.png 12w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/neliti_Through_the_kaleidoscope_Understanding_digital_inequalit_feeb6cf1-fd37-4307-9bd6-63b364843aef-480x480.png 480w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/neliti_Through_the_kaleidoscope_Understanding_digital_inequalit_feeb6cf1-fd37-4307-9bd6-63b364843aef.png 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Credit. Midjourney</figcaption></figure></div>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The lenses we use to explore the inequalities</h2>
We are ourselves a kaleidoscope of authors who came together to manifest the power of a multi-lens approach when exploring digital inequality. The lenses harnessed by the individual authors <a href="https://doi.org/10.1007/s42438-023-00395-8">in the original piece</a> include:
<ul>
<li>The (human) capability approach which is mindful of people’s differences by questioning what it means to offer equal access via digital means. </li>
<li>Affective injustice, whereby emotional lived experiences and responses can be a distinctive source of social inequality and injustice. </li>
<li>Bourdieu’s theory of practice, where inequality is understood through the key concepts of field, habitus, and capital. </li>
<li>The cultural-historical activity theory which focuses on the socio-cultural structures and interdependent relationships between the individual and the community that enable and/or constrain the uptake of digital technologies.</li>
<li>Jan van Dijk’s resources appropriation theory sees the problem of digital inequality as a result of how people use digital media in their daily lives. </li>
<li>Critical pedagogy (Paulo Freire) is an approach which problematises the notion that technology automatically grants access and enhances learning for all students. </li>
<li>Fraser’s tripartite model of justice offers a lens to look into digital inequality decentred from technology, focusing on issues of misrecognition and misrepresentation not only in the digital world but also outside of it. </li>
<li>Critical realism and realist social theory bring attention to the interplay of structure, culture, and agency in inequality, particularly in social reproduction/change, i.e., morphogenesis/morphostasis. </li>
</ul>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What is needed now and in the near future</h2>
Amidst growing digitalization, education requires varied critical viewpoints. It’s crucial to delve beyond surface technologies and consider their socio-cultural impacts. The rise of data technologies underscores the need to prioritise human experiences and needs in education, fostering equality and meeting academic demands.
At the national level, policies that impact digital inequality in education need to integrate principles and requirements to address inequities in the system. Across higher education sectors, infrastructure must be built to ensure a level playing field for all students.
Industry stakeholders cannot be allowed to leverage the needs of those with less access for their profit-making ends nor set conditions for their offerings (for example, user data in exchange for connectivity).
Bias in content offered by large companies (such as AI platforms) must be eradicated.
Sandra Abegglen, Tom Burns, Laura Czerniewicz, Su-ming Khoo, Caroline Kuhn, and Sandra Sinfield have contributed equally to the writing of this collaborative article.
<img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f52c.png" alt="🔬" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f9eb.png" alt="🧫" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f9ea.png" alt="🧪" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f50d.png" alt="🔍" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f913.png" alt="🤓" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f469-200d-1f52c.png" alt="👩‍🔬" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f9a0.png" alt="🦠" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f52d.png" alt="🔭" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f4da.png" alt="📚" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" />
Journal reference
Kuhn, C., Khoo, S. M., Czerniewicz, L., Lilley, W., Bute, S., Crean, A., … & MacKenzie, A. (2023). Understanding digital inequality: a theoretical kaleidoscope. In Constructing Postdigital Research: Method and Emancipation (pp. 333-373). Cham: Springer Nature Switzerland. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-35411-3_17">https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-35411-3_17</a>The post <a href="https://theacademic.com/kaleidoscope-understanding-digital-inequality-education/">Understanding digital inequality in education through a theoretical kaleidoscope</a> first appeared on <a href="https://theacademic.com">The Academic</a>.]]></content:encoded>
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</item>
<item>
<title>Navigating tomorrow’s tech landscape with AI literacy</title>
<link>https://theacademic.com/tomorrows-tech-landscape-ai-literacy/</link>
<comments>https://theacademic.com/tomorrows-tech-landscape-ai-literacy/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Akshi Kumar]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Wed, 08 May 2024 16:13:55 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Artificial intelligence]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Education]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Public policy]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[AI Literacy]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[artificial intelligence]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[education]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Ethical AI Practices]]></category>
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<category><![CDATA[Netaji Subhas University of Technology]]></category>
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<category><![CDATA[Social Impact]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[society]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Technology Landscape]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://theacademic.com/?p=10160</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Are you prepared for AI's impact on society? AI literacy equips you for the future.
The post <a href="https://theacademic.com/tomorrows-tech-landscape-ai-literacy/">Navigating tomorrow’s tech landscape with AI literacy</a> first appeared on <a href="https://theacademic.com">The Academic</a>.]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[In an era dominated by rapid technological advancements, Artificial Intelligence (AI) literacy emerges as a critical pillar of societal competency. <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/bernardmarr/2019/12/16/the-10-best-examples-of-how-ai-is-already-used-in-our-everyday-life/">AI systems</a>, which replicate human intelligence to perform tasks and improve over time, are now integrated into every aspect of our daily lives. Take navigation apps, for example. These apps analyze vast amounts of data to find the best routes, considering current traffic, past travel times, and incidents. Knowing how these AI systems work can help us appreciate their capabilities, approach their limitations cautiously, and make informed choices about when to rely on them.
<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img decoding="async" width="1024" height="1024" src="http://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/image3-8.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-10161" srcset="https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/image3-8.jpg 1024w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/image3-8-300x300.jpg 300w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/image3-8-150x150.jpg 150w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/image3-8-768x768.jpg 768w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/image3-8-12x12.jpg 12w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/image3-8-480x480.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Figure 1. Diverse Individuals Embracing AI Technology in Daily Life Credit. DALL-E</figcaption></figure></div>
The widespread use of AI highlights the importance of <a href="https://theacademic.com/think-know-artificial-intelligence/" title="AI literacy">AI literacy</a>. In a world where technology constantly makes decisions for us, being literate in AI means being equipped to understand and engage with it effectively. <a href="https://www.ijaresm.com/conceptualizing-ai-literacy-educational-and-policy-initiatives-for-a-future-ready-society" title="A recent study">A recent study</a>, titled “Conceptualizing AI Literacy: Educational and Policy Initiatives for a Future-Ready Society,” explores the profound impacts of AI across various fields, such as education, healthcare, and media. It emphasizes the critical role of AI literacy in addressing the challenges and seizing the opportunities brought by this transformative technology.
<blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow">
AI literacy is crucial for equipping society to handle AI’s transformative impact, fostering responsible and inclusive use across various sectors.
<cite>Dr. Akshi Kumar</cite></blockquote>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A new era for society: AI literacy’s promise</h2>
AI technology, which once seemed like science fiction, is now an integral part of our daily lives. However, this swift integration has left many lagging in understanding its complexities. <a href="https://www.ijaresm.com/conceptualizing-ai-literacy-educational-and-policy-initiatives-for-a-future-ready-society">The research paper</a> underscores the pressing need for AI literacy, encompassing comprehension of AI systems, ethical considerations in their deployment, and adept interaction with AI technologies. From the dawn of computer literacy with personal computing through the digital literacy era catalyzed by the internet and mobile devices, society now finds itself at the threshold of AI literacy—a pivotal shift in our technological engagement demanding a grasp of systems capable of learning, adapting, and decision-making.
Presently, <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2949882124000227">AI literacy levels vary widely</a>, revealing stark discrepancies across different demographics. These disparities pose significant risks as AI’s influence extends into critical domains like healthcare, finance, and education. Lacking a fundamental grasp of AI, individuals, and communities may find themselves vulnerable to heightened risks concerning privacy, employment, and societal norms.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Navigating the AI literacy landscape</h2>
Addressing the challenges and navigating the landscape of AI literacy involves a multifaceted approach that includes educational reforms, policy development, and community engagement. In the US, numerous nonprofit initiatives, backed by funding, aim to boost AI literacy within communities and educational settings. In 2023, the <a href="https://ai.gov/naiac/">National AI Advisory Committee</a> released a report titled “Enhancing AI Literacy for the United States of America,” proposing the launch of a National AI Literacy Campaign and the investment in both formal and informal educational frameworks to foster AI understanding.
This led to the introduction of the bipartisan Artificial Intelligence Literacy Act. Similarly, the Scottish Government, in partnership with Data Lab (Scotland’s Innovation Centre for Data and AI), launched “<a href="https://www.gov.scot/publications/trustworthy-ethical-inclusive-artificial-intelligence-debate-ministerial-statement/" title="Living with AI">Living with AI</a>,” a free online course aimed at improving public understanding of AI, tailored for the average Scottish reader.
Contrastingly, the UK lacks comprehensive national initiatives to promote AI literacy. Although the UK AI Council’s roadmap suggested specific actions, these were omitted from the <a href="https://www.jrf.org.uk/ai-for-public-good/we-must-act-on-ai-literacy-to-protect-public-power">National AI Strategy</a>. This gap underscores the need for localized efforts and grassroots involvement in promoting AI literacy.
Education plays a central role in this endeavor. Implementing AI literacy into curricula from primary to higher education levels ensures that students become not only proficient users of technology but also adept at critical thinking regarding AI applications. This includes training teachers, updating educational standards, and providing practical AI learning experiences accessible to all students.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">AI and policy</h2>
On the policy front, governments and organizations need to establish frameworks supporting the ethical development and deployment of AI technologies. This involves implementing policies addressing data privacy, security, and the fairness of AI applications. Public awareness campaigns are also vital for demystifying AI technologies, explaining their benefits and risks, and discussing ethical implications. Moreover, collaboration with stakeholders across various sectors is essential for successfully integrating AI literacy initiatives. This includes partnerships between educational institutions, technology firms, non-profit organizations, and community groups. Such collaborations facilitate the sharing of resources, expertise, and best practices, enabling the development of community-based programs tailored to diverse populations’ needs.
In navigating this landscape, it is crucial to consider inclusivity and accessibility to ensure that all members of society can benefit from AI advancements. By addressing these challenges and leveraging strategic approaches, we can foster a society that is not only fluent in AI technology but also capable of using it responsibly and ethically to improve life across all sectors. As AI reshapes our world, AI literacy becomes crucial for ensuring responsible and inclusive societal adaptation.
<blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow">
By embedding AI literacy in our education and policy frameworks, we cultivate a society that uses AI to enhance lives, not dictate them.
<cite>Dr. Akshi Kumar</cite></blockquote>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Looking ahead: Shaping the future of society with AI</h2>
Moving forward, the strategic framework outlined in the <a href="https://www.ijaresm.com/conceptualizing-ai-literacy-educational-and-policy-initiatives-for-a-future-ready-society">research</a> offers a roadmap for integrating AI literacy into society. Beginning with a thorough initial assessment and progressing through planning, implementation, and ethical oversight, each phase contributes to the overarching goal: fostering a continually evolving, AI-literate global community supported by robust international standards and adaptive learning mechanisms.
In conclusion, the paper advocates for a future where AI literacy is not merely a desirable skill but an essential aspect of education and policymaking. As AI increasingly influences global industries and societal norms, an informed and educated populace becomes indispensable for responsibly and equitably harnessing its benefits. Governments play a pivotal role in championing AI literacy, incorporating it into national education systems to prepare citizens for a future shaped by AI-driven decisions. To advance global justice through ethical AI practices, governments, and industry bodies can adopt the following strategic initiatives. These steps are designed not only to enhance AI literacy and application but also to ensure these technologies contribute positively to a more equitable global community.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Future action</h2>
<ul>
<li>Create Global AI Ethics Standards: Form an International AI Ethics Commission with diverse global stakeholders to develop and enforce AI transparency, fairness, and data privacy norms.</li>
<li>Promote Inclusive AI Education: Launch a pilot program in educational institutions to integrate inclusive AI literacy into curricula, planning for national expansion based on initial feedback.</li>
<li>Invest in Localized AI Solutions: Establish a multistakeholder task force to enhance AI accessibility by developing applications tailored to the specific needs of local populations.</li>
<li>Encourage Ethical AI Partnerships: Initiate an AI Innovation Challenge to foster public-private-academic collaborations on ethical AI projects, supported by funding and public recognition.</li>
<li>Institute a National AI Impact Assessment Program: Establish a national program for the ongoing assessment of AI’s societal impacts. Regular evaluations will identify biases and societal repercussions, guiding policy formulation and prioritizing AI literacy initiatives.</li>
</ul>
By enhancing our comprehension of AI and its implications, we can shape a future where AI enhances efficiency and innovation while advancing equity and sustainability. Achieving this vision necessitates collaborative, dedicated, and innovative efforts to realize AI’s potential fully.
<img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f52c.png" alt="🔬" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f9eb.png" alt="🧫" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f9ea.png" alt="🧪" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f50d.png" alt="🔍" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f913.png" alt="🤓" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f469-200d-1f52c.png" alt="👩‍🔬" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f9a0.png" alt="🦠" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f52d.png" alt="🔭" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f4da.png" alt="📚" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" />
Journal reference
Kumar, A., & Sangwan, S. R. (2024). Conceptualizing AI Literacy: Educational and Policy Initiatives for a Future-Ready Society. International Journal of All Research Education & Scientific Methods, 12(4), 1543-1551. <a href="https://www.ijaresm.com/uploaded_files/document_file/Akshi_Kumar31Pi.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener" title="">https://doi.org/10.56025/IJARESM.2023.1201241543</a>The post <a href="https://theacademic.com/tomorrows-tech-landscape-ai-literacy/">Navigating tomorrow’s tech landscape with AI literacy</a> first appeared on <a href="https://theacademic.com">The Academic</a>.]]></content:encoded>
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<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
</item>
<item>
<title>Overcoming challenges in space reflector technology</title>
<link>https://theacademic.com/challenges-space-reflector-technology/</link>
<comments>https://theacademic.com/challenges-space-reflector-technology/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Fedor Mitin]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Mon, 06 May 2024 17:41:17 +0000</pubDate>
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<category><![CDATA[optimization]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Reflective Surface]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Russia]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[solar energy]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Space Debris]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Space Exploration]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Space-based Reflectors]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Spacecraft]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Transformable Reflectors]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://theacademic.com/?p=10113</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Space reflector technology advancements offer exciting prospects, potentially revolutionising future space missions. How do they impact future space missions?
The post <a href="https://theacademic.com/challenges-space-reflector-technology/">Overcoming challenges in space reflector technology</a> first appeared on <a href="https://theacademic.com">The Academic</a>.]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Large transformable space-based reflectors hold promise for space exploration and expanding our understanding of the universe. <a href="https://ntrs.nasa.gov/citations/19920001818" title="They serve various purposes">They serve various purposes</a>:
<ol>
<li>Capturing and concentrating solar energy to power spacecraft and stations.</li>
<li>Reflecting or focusing light to generate high-power laser beams for long-distance communication or scientific research.</li>
<li>Creating giant mirrors for telescopes, enhancing resolution and observation capabilities.</li>
<li>Generating artificial gravity by altering spacecraft trajectories.</li>
<li>Shielding spacecraft from micrometeorites and space debris.</li>
<li>Converting solar energy into electricity.</li>
</ol>
However, implementing these reflectors poses significant technical challenges. Ensuring stability in zero gravity and cosmic radiation is paramount. Developing efficient, reliable systems for transformation is crucial, considering factors such as temperature and their impact on the reflective surface’s shape.
<blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow">
In outer space, it is necessary to take into account many different factors, such as large temperature differences, radiation, lack of gravity, etc. All this leads to solving complex technical problems.
<cite>Fedor Mitin</cite></blockquote>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The appearance of a large-sized transformable reflector</h2>
Various space reflectors exist, broadly categorized into cable-stayed, umbrella, truss, and inflatable designs. Each type has <a href="http://www-civ.eng.cam.ac.uk/dsl/publications/TibertDocThesis.pdf" title="unique characteristics">unique characteristics</a> in production, deployment, transportation to orbit, operation, and control.
To address the need for a large aperture while keeping structural weight limited and volume minimal during launch, transformable antennas have been developed. Examples include the AstroMesh ring antenna, the JAXA Engineering Test Satellite antenna, and the TerreStar and Skyterra antennas.
A large-size space-based transformable reflector (LSTR) (refer to Figure 1) utilizing a cable-stayed system comprises several components: a spacecraft (1) serving as the deployment reference, solar arrays (2) supplying energy to the setup, and a system (3) for illuminating the reflective surface. Additionally, the reflector includes a rod (4) extending the reflector (5) to the necessary distance and a net (6) shaping the required radiation pattern. Engines (7) positioned at points A, B, and C facilitate the transition of the LSTR from its folded transport configuration to the <a href="https://www.iss-reshetnev.ru/media/news/news-110511-1" title="deployed standard position">deployed standard position</a>.
<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img decoding="async" width="482" height="404" src="http://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image1-29.png" alt="" class="wp-image-10115" srcset="https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image1-29.png 482w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image1-29-300x251.png 300w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image1-29-14x12.png 14w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image1-29-480x402.png 480w" sizes="(max-width: 482px) 100vw, 482px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Figure 1. LSTR with the use of a cable system for maintaining the shape of the reflector Credit. Author</figcaption></figure></div>
In general, the task of LSTR deployment at each stage is solved by influencing the design of actuators.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Challenges in optimizing the net of the reflector setup process</h2>
The novelty of the development lies in the selection of the optimal control algorithm and the optimization of the configuration process. Structural elements of large-sized spacecraft are attenuated for a long time. For instance, reflectors with significant diameters experience long-term damping oscillations even six months after deployment in orbit, rendering the satellite inoperable. Rods, spokes, and nets oscillate due to internal dissipative forces, necessitating a hiatus in usage for up to six months.
Satellites are subject to external disturbances, in particular, radiation and temperature changes. The regulated operation of the reflector takes up to 15 years. Therefore, six months of fluctuations is a significant time interval that needs to be reduced.
This prompts consideration of the real-time application of optimal control algorithms. The primary criterion is minimizing fluctuations. Special mathematical models and algorithms have been developed to facilitate real-time deployment with minimal oscillation, reducing the transition to the operating position from six months to one month. Consequently, the reflector can begin functioning six times faster.
Large antennas can’t be made rigid. The reflective netting, crucial for focusing signals, is mesh-based.  Impact on one point initiates oscillations throughout the net-like waves, necessitating shape retention.
Minimizing energy costs is crucial. Operating in outer space where solar panels solely supply energy, resources are limited. Besides vibration reduction, minimizing energy expenditure is imperative.
<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1400" height="859" src="http://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image6-3.png" alt="" class="wp-image-10116" srcset="https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image6-3.png 1400w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image6-3-300x184.png 300w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image6-3-1024x628.png 1024w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image6-3-768x471.png 768w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image6-3-18x12.png 18w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image6-3-480x295.png 480w" sizes="(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Figure 2. An example of a net-adjusting control system Credit. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.actaastro.2020.04.066" title="Author">Author</a></figcaption></figure></div>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Formulation of the problem of adjusting the shape of the radio-reflective surface</h2>
Ensuring the specified characteristics of the antenna, such as the radiation pattern, and the width of the main lobe, is directly related to maintaining the specified shape of the radio-reflecting net. Even a slight deviation of the active surface from the intended shape significantly affects antenna performance.
The task of controlling the shape of the active part of the reflector in real-time is urgent to ensure the required characteristics of the spacecraft antenna under conditions of uncertainty during operation. At the same time, the design of the control system and control algorithms must ensure the minimization of oscillations of the net and energy efficiency due to the limited energy reserves on the spacecraft.
Figure 3 illustrates the spoke (1), the two main radial cords of the front (2) and back (3) nets, and the cables (4) connecting them. At the spoke’s right end, it splits into two parts to define the desired shape of the radio-reflective surface. Each cable (4) contains an actuator (5), typically a DC motor, for this purpose.
It is necessary to adjust the length of the cables (4) with the help of actuators (5) and set the shape of the radio-reflecting net cloth determined by the front network (2) while minimizing energy consumption.
<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="637" height="247" src="http://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image2-24.png" alt="" class="wp-image-10117" srcset="https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image2-24.png 637w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image2-24-300x116.png 300w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image2-24-18x7.png 18w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image2-24-480x186.png 480w" sizes="(max-width: 637px) 100vw, 637px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Figure 3. Diagram of the spoke of a space-based reflector Credit. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.actaastro.2024.03.061" title="Author">Author</a></figcaption></figure></div>
Optimizing the real-time control process of DC motors poses challenges, primarily stemming from the complexity of ensuring the convergence of solutions arising from the maximum principle of two-point boundary value problems. Consequently, developing diverse optimal control algorithms is imperative to attain a dependable solution.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Testing of the proposed algorithms on a prototype</h2>
To validate all algorithms and design solutions, prototypes (refer to Fig. 4, 5) are essential for refining the proposed solutions.
<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1429" height="1071" src="http://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image4-4.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-10118" srcset="https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image4-4.jpg 1429w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image4-4-300x225.jpg 300w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image4-4-1024x767.jpg 1024w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image4-4-768x576.jpg 768w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image4-4-16x12.jpg 16w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image4-4-480x360.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 1429px) 100vw, 1429px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Figure 4. Layout of the net adjusting system Credit. Author</figcaption></figure></div>
<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1211" height="779" src="http://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image5-3.png" alt="" class="wp-image-10119" srcset="https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image5-3.png 1211w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image5-3-300x193.png 300w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image5-3-1024x659.png 1024w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image5-3-768x494.png 768w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image5-3-18x12.png 18w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image5-3-480x309.png 480w" sizes="(max-width: 1211px) 100vw, 1211px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Figure 5. Layout of the net adjusting system Credit. Author</figcaption></figure></div>
The use of the developed optimal control algorithm made it possible to ensure the successful completion of the task without difficulties in convergence, unlike classical methods.
In this instance, employing an optimal regulator reduces electrical costs by approximately 13% compared to current approaches. It ensures the necessary accuracy and quality of system regulation across a broad spectrum of terminal conditions.
Accounting for disturbances and sensor noises affecting the system under study presents challenges in processing measurement results and planning. The explored algorithm can be integrated into more intricate solutions involving measurement processing and optimization of observation intervals.
These research findings hold significance in calculating energy costs and selecting actuators and power systems for space-based reflectors.
Ongoing research in this domain continues to advance.
Developing large-sized transformable reflectors is a very technologically advanced and expensive production. Creating these structures is possible for large corporations such as NASA, Roscosmos, CNSA, ESA. Competition creates good trends for the development of the industry. However, for a significant breakthrough, it is necessary to organize the exchange of experiences and international conferences with the participation of all leading companies. This will allow us to solve more global problems in space exploration. An example of such cooperation is the International Space Station. <a href="https://theacademic.com/space-tourism-and-sustainability/" title="Space exploration is the task of all humanity">Space exploration is the task of all of humanity</a>.
<img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f52c.png" alt="🔬" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f9eb.png" alt="🧫" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f9ea.png" alt="🧪" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f50d.png" alt="🔍" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f913.png" alt="🤓" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f469-200d-1f52c.png" alt="👩‍🔬" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f9a0.png" alt="🦠" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f52d.png" alt="🔭" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f4da.png" alt="📚" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" />
Journal reference
Mitin, F. V., & Krivushov, A. I. (2023). Improving the efficiency of DC motor control to adjust the reflective surface of the space-based reflector. Russian Aeronautics, 66(1), 162-169. <a href="https://doi.org/10.3103/S1068799823010221">https://doi.org/10.3103/S1068799823010221</a>The post <a href="https://theacademic.com/challenges-space-reflector-technology/">Overcoming challenges in space reflector technology</a> first appeared on <a href="https://theacademic.com">The Academic</a>.]]></content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>Climate in crisis: The deceptive call of the apocalypse</title>
<link>https://theacademic.com/climate-crisis-deceptive-call-of-apocalypse/</link>
<comments>https://theacademic.com/climate-crisis-deceptive-call-of-apocalypse/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Jennifer Bernstein]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Thu, 02 May 2024 16:07:39 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Climate change]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Energy]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Apocalypse]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Breakthrough Institute]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Carbon emissions]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Climate Action]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Climate apocalysm]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Climate Change]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[climate crisis]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Climatism]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Emissions Reduction]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Environmental issues]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[global warming]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Montreal Protocol]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Net-Zero Emissions]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Optimism]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Planetary boundaries]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Scientific uncertainty]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[University of Southern California]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://theacademic.com/?p=10128</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Exaggerated climate claims erode trust in science, hindering genuine environmental efforts. Accurate communication is key to progress.
The post <a href="https://theacademic.com/climate-crisis-deceptive-call-of-apocalypse/">Climate in crisis: The deceptive call of the apocalypse</a> first appeared on <a href="https://theacademic.com">The Academic</a>.]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Climate change, long sidelined, is now central to politics, media, and popular discourse. This is well-justified; the Earth is warming at an unprecedented rate. Natural disasters are exacerbated by climate change. Humans must curb carbon emissions and remove carbon from the atmosphere to slow global warming. Within climate hawk circles, there is consensus that humanity should move towards net-zero emissions as soon as possible. These are monumental challenges demanding action.
Media often portrays climate change as an impending apocalypse, with headlines warning of catastrophic tipping points. These narratives, rooted in the idea of total destruction, evoke fear and urgency, aiming to spur action. However, such portrayals rely on quantifiable thresholds, which, once crossed, are said to spell doom. Accompanied by dramatic imagery, these stories activate fear and anxiety, driving a call for climate action. But this characterization of climate change is simply wrong. Humanity is not inevitably headed toward a climate-fueled apocalypse, and fear-based appeals do not generate the type of action needed to address climate change. Rather, they breed solutions out of urgency, sometimes resulting in ineffective outcomes, can cause counterintuitive behavior, and risk sidestepping the democratic process.
<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="1024" src="https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/neliti_Climate_in_crisis_The_deceptive_call_of_the_apocalypse_4_5848be39-c147-412c-8090-e49696213dc8-1024x1024.png" alt="" class="wp-image-10139" srcset="https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/neliti_Climate_in_crisis_The_deceptive_call_of_the_apocalypse_4_5848be39-c147-412c-8090-e49696213dc8-1024x1024.png 1024w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/neliti_Climate_in_crisis_The_deceptive_call_of_the_apocalypse_4_5848be39-c147-412c-8090-e49696213dc8-300x300.png 300w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/neliti_Climate_in_crisis_The_deceptive_call_of_the_apocalypse_4_5848be39-c147-412c-8090-e49696213dc8-150x150.png 150w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/neliti_Climate_in_crisis_The_deceptive_call_of_the_apocalypse_4_5848be39-c147-412c-8090-e49696213dc8-768x768.png 768w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/neliti_Climate_in_crisis_The_deceptive_call_of_the_apocalypse_4_5848be39-c147-412c-8090-e49696213dc8-1536x1536.png 1536w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/neliti_Climate_in_crisis_The_deceptive_call_of_the_apocalypse_4_5848be39-c147-412c-8090-e49696213dc8-12x12.png 12w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/neliti_Climate_in_crisis_The_deceptive_call_of_the_apocalypse_4_5848be39-c147-412c-8090-e49696213dc8-480x480.png 480w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/neliti_Climate_in_crisis_The_deceptive_call_of_the_apocalypse_4_5848be39-c147-412c-8090-e49696213dc8.png 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Credit. Midjourney</figcaption></figure></div>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">“Planetary boundaries” are problematic</h2>
Much of the apocalyptic rhetoric is based on the idea that quantifiable limits, once breached, signal the end of life on this planet. <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/461472a">Johan Rockström and colleagues</a> coined the term in 2009. It defines nine biophysical factors—land-use change, biodiversity loss, nitrogen and phosphorous levels, freshwater use, ocean acidification, climate change, ozone depletion, aerosol loading, and chemical pollution—which are “hard boundaries”. The appeal of the Planetary Boundaries hypothesis lies in its clarity and clear directives.
But like so many scientific theories, the concept of planetary boundaries does not emerge objectively from science; rather, it is the product of a number of methodological—and sometimes prescriptive—decisions made by very human scientists at a particular place and time.
Rockström clearly stated that the Planetary Boundary hypothesis was a normative project. But science is infused with problematic assumptions. For one, planetary boundaries are determined using the global scale. Assuredly, one of the nine factors—climate—is global in scope. However, the other eight factors vary at the local and regional scale. Some, like biodiversity, have no global tipping point at all. Despite appearing as hard science, the Planetary Boundaries hypothesis is part of science and advocacy.
Portraying climate risk as apocalyptic may backfire, inducing fear and anxiety instead of spurring action. Research suggests such framing can fuel climate denialism by contradicting beliefs in a fair world. Additionally, it may bolster support for maintaining the status quo, discouraging climate action altogether. If humanity is perceived as doomed, motivation to address climate change diminishes.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The risks of climatism</h2>
In his book “Climate Change Isn’t Everything,” Mike Hulme critiques the trend of viewing all environmental issues solely through a climate lens, which he terms “climatism.” He argues that this approach can divert attention from important issues and hinder climate goals. Hulme highlights an instance in Sumatra where EU efforts to reduce carbon emissions through palm-based biofuels inadvertently led to increased deforestation and carbon release. He cautions that prioritizing urgent action over thoughtful deliberation, driven by apocalyptic narratives, risks undermining the democratic process.
Another problem with apocalyptic narratives is that scientists lose public credibility when dramatic claims are overstated. <a href="https://www.independent.co.uk/climate-change/news/global-warming-experts-say-temperatures-could-rise-by-6c-by-2100-with-cataclysmic-results-10193506.html" title="The proclamation">The proclamation</a> “Scientists say temperatures could rise by 6 degrees Celsius by 2100 and call for action ahead of the UN meeting in Paris” is untrue. Environmentalists invoke similarly dramatic declarations with respect to other environmental problems; “<a href="https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/only-60-years-of-farming-left-if-soil-degradation-continues/" title="The proclamation">There are only 60 years of farming left if soil degradation continues</a>”, “<a href="https://www.seaspiracy.org/">We will see virtually empty oceans by 2048</a>” and “<a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/morning-mix/wp/2016/01/20/by-2050-there-will-be-more-plastic-than-fish-in-the-worlds-oceans-study-says/">By 2025, there will be more plastic than fish in the world’s oceans, study says</a>”. All around, the sky seems to be falling.
<a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/453652/not-the-end-of-the-world-by-ritchie-hannah/9781784745004" title="Claims such as these">Claims such as these</a> are exaggerated or simply untrue. Some of this is due to subjective and occasionally questionable interpretation of data, as well as normative objectives. For example, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) uses RCP’s (Representative Concentration Pathways) to model alternative climate scenarios. <a href="https://issues.org/climate-change-scenarios-lost-touch-reality-pielke-ritchie/#:~:text=RCP8.,already%20deviates%20significantly%20from%20reality" title="But the most regularly used scenario">But the most regularly used scenario</a>, RCP8.5, models the future as though humans were to take no action on climate. While this generates dramatic headlines, it simply doesn’t match reality. Not only does it deny the huge strides being made in the climate world, it denies the ability of humans to take charge and create a better future.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The world is getting better</h2>
There are many reasons to think that we are, and can continue, to change our climate trajectory. <a href="https://www.acs.org/education/whatischemistry/landmarks/cfcs-ozone.html#:~:text=In%201987%2C%2056%20countries%20agreed,and%20other%20ozone%20depleting%20chemicals" title="In 1987, the Montreal Protocol">In 1987, the Montreal Protocol</a> included pledges by the other 50 nations to reduce Chlorofluorocarbons (CFC’s). Peaking in the late 1980’s, global CFC emissions are down 95%. As countries industrialize, living standards rise, and carbon emissions are reduced. One example is the transition in the developing world from fuelwood to cleaner cooking oils. The Paris Agreement constituted global commitments to emissions reductions and transparency.
<a href="https://www.cleaninvestmentmonitor.org/reports/clean-electricity-and-transport-2023" title="The 2022 Inflation Reduction Act">The 2022 Inflation Reduction Act</a> has already doubled the US emissions reductions. <a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/453652/not-the-end-of-the-world-by-ritchie-hannah/9781784745004" title="Carbon emissions per-person">Carbon emissions per-person</a> have peaked and are decreasing due to technological progress; an individual in the developed world emits far less carbon than they would have 100 years ago<a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/453652/not-the-end-of-the-world-by-ritchie-hannah/9781784745004">.</a> While climate change undoubtedly influences extreme weather events, death from said events has been dramatically reduced. The list goes on. Humanity is already adapting to and mitigating climate change and will continue to do so in the future.
<a href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/263326352_Climate_change_and_the_apocalyptic_imagination">Paul Hoggett stated</a>, “The quandary we face is how to sound the alarm without being alarmist”. <a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/453652/not-the-end-of-the-world-by-ritchie-hannah/9781784745004" title="There are a number of actions">There are a number of actions</a> that can be taken to address climate, from the large-scale—improving crop yields, aggressively pursuing Net-Zero emissions, increasing agricultural yields—to the individual—forgoing an SUV or a car altogether, reducing or eliminating flying, and moving to a plant-based diet.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">It’s not too late</h2>
Climate change will rightfully remain the central issue of our time. But the end of life on earth is not inevitable. We are not barreling on a crash course towards the destruction of humanity. We can make choices. We can broaden the range of tools in our toolbox through continuing research on <a href="https://www.bgs.ac.uk/discovering-geology/climate-change/carbon-capture-and-storage/">carbon capture and storage</a> and <a href="https://www.energy.gov/ne/advanced-reactor-technologies#:~:text=The%20Office%20of%20Advanced%20Reactor,technical%2C%20economical%2C%20and%20environmental%20advancements">advanced nuclear reactor technologies</a>. Gratefully, managing climate change will be relatively banal, not a sudden fiery collapse.
There are many things we can do as both decision-makers and citizens to curtail the negative impacts of framing climate apocalyptically. The first, of course, is to recognize how apocalypse risks lead to implementing solutions that do not match squarely with the issue at hand. Sometimes, the dire framing of climate change is used to justify accelerated decision-making, squelching alternate voices.
Another space in which climate apocalysm can be addressed is in the media. While scorched forests, barren deserts, and empty reservoirs illustrate dramatic stories, they sometimes minimize scientific uncertainty or compromise science altogether. Dramatic claims are often made based on no-action scenarios, but a no-action scenario is wrong; humans are already proactively addressing climate change, and emissions are dropping significantly. On the other end, readers must be critical of overstated climate claims, especially when climate apocalysm is used to increase or agitate a readership.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Conclusions</h2>
Apocalyptic framing of climate change, driven by normative goals, may hinder climate action, evoke despair, and promote ineffective solutions. However, it’s inaccurate to suggest that a <a href="https://theacademic.com/mediterranean-society-climate-change/" title="climate apocalypse ">climate apocalypse</a> directly leads to negative psychological effects. While some may envision an apocalypse as a fresh start, the reality demands proactive efforts to address our challenges. We should not assume that optimists are climate change denialists or somehow minimizing the severity of the climate crisis. Humanity’s ongoing climate change mitigation offers reasons for optimism, not apocalysm, underscoring that it’s not too late to take action.
<img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f52c.png" alt="🔬" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f9eb.png" alt="🧫" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f9ea.png" alt="🧪" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f50d.png" alt="🔍" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f913.png" alt="🤓" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f469-200d-1f52c.png" alt="👩‍🔬" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f9a0.png" alt="🦠" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f52d.png" alt="🔭" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f4da.png" alt="📚" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" />
Journal reference
Bernstein, J. (2024). Mike Hulme. Climate change isn’t everything: liberating climate politics from alarmism: Polity Press, 2023. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1007/s13412-023-00870-5">https://doi.org/10.1007/s13412-023-00870-5</a>The post <a href="https://theacademic.com/climate-crisis-deceptive-call-of-apocalypse/">Climate in crisis: The deceptive call of the apocalypse</a> first appeared on <a href="https://theacademic.com">The Academic</a>.]]></content:encoded>
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<title>Strengthening resilience in the online learning ecosystem</title>
<link>https://theacademic.com/strengthening-resilience-online-learning-ecosystem/</link>
<comments>https://theacademic.com/strengthening-resilience-online-learning-ecosystem/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Yujie Zhou]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Tue, 30 Apr 2024 08:06:16 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Business]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Education]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Psychology]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[City University of Hong Kong]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Economic sustainability]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Educational resources]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Flow experience]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Freemium model]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[FSEP model]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Learning community]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Learning satisfaction]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Ningxia University]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Online course]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Online course marketing]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Online Learning]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Online learning ecosystem]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Purchasing intention]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Quality assurance]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Revenue generation]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Sequential mixed-method approach]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Value expectancy]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Wuhan University]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://theacademic.com/?p=10121</guid>
<description><![CDATA[To boost resilience in the online learning ecosystem, the Freemium model helps to create a virtuous cycle from production to consumption.
The post <a href="https://theacademic.com/strengthening-resilience-online-learning-ecosystem/">Strengthening resilience in the online learning ecosystem</a> first appeared on <a href="https://theacademic.com">The Academic</a>.]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[The emergence of the knowledge economy has heightened individuals’ awareness of the monetary value of knowledge. Consequently, more individuals are willing to pay for high-quality information. This trend presents a significant opportunity for learning communities to establish an economically sustainable online ecosystem.
Achieving the economic sustainability of online learning communities through fee structures has also become a critical concern for industry leaders. In 2020, Coursera introduced Coursera Plus, a subscription plan that grants learners unlimited access to over 90% of the online courses available on the platform. Most Coursera courses follow the “freemium” model (Figure 1). This enables learners to audit the course and watch videos for free while charging for certification and graded assignments.
Similarly, NetEase Online Open Courses, one of China’s online learning platforms, entices learners to purchase paid courses through free trial offerings. However, current academic research on <a href="https://theacademic.com/online-education-perspectives-from-a-college-professor/">online learning</a> mainly focuses on building online learning communities from social and environmental perspectives, with limited attention given to the economic aspect.
<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="979" height="391" src="http://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image1-30.png" alt="" class="wp-image-10123" style="width:616px;height:auto" srcset="https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image1-30.png 979w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image1-30-300x120.png 300w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image1-30-768x307.png 768w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image1-30-18x7.png 18w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image1-30-480x192.png 480w" sizes="(max-width: 979px) 100vw, 979px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Figure 1. Illustration of the freemium business model Credit. Author</figcaption></figure></div>
<blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow">
Learners’ willingness to purchase online courses is crucial in creating an economically sustainable online learning community. This is because profitability is essential for the community to continue offering valuable online learning content and facilitating the constantly evolving learning ecosystem.
<cite>Yujie Zhou</cite></blockquote>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Flow-satisfaction-expectancy-purchasing model</h2>
<a href="https://doi.org/10.1007/s10639-023-12347-7">This study</a> is an initial attempt to explore the establishment of an economically sustainable online learning ecosystem. Drawing from the Freemium model, researchers developed a two-stage Flow-Satisfaction-Expectancy-Purchasing (FSEP) model (Figure 2). The first stage analyses online learners’ perceptions and experiences with free trial online courses. Meanwhile, the second stage examines learners’ expectations and purchasing intentions regarding paid full online courses.
The FSEP model underscores the significance of learners’ willingness to purchase online courses in fostering an economically sustainable online learning community. Profitability is the key to sustainably offering valuable online learning content and facilitating the dynamic evolution of the learning ecosystem.
To validate and explain the FSEP model, the researchers employed a sequential explanatory mixed-method approach. Initially, the model underwent validation using a large sample size. Subsequently, the researchers conducted semi-structured interviews to provide further insights into how learners’ flow experience with free trial courses influences their intention to purchase paid courses.
<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1600" height="376" src="http://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image2-25.png" alt="" class="wp-image-10125" style="width:612px;height:auto" srcset="https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image2-25.png 1600w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image2-25-300x71.png 300w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image2-25-1024x241.png 1024w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image2-25-768x180.png 768w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image2-25-1536x361.png 1536w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image2-25-18x4.png 18w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image2-25-480x113.png 480w" sizes="(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Figure 2. The FSEP model Credit. Author</figcaption></figure></div>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">How to achieve an economically sustainable online learning ecosystem?</h2>
The quantitative results demonstrate that online learners’ flow experience and satisfaction with the free course directly affect their expectations for paid courses. This, in turn, increases their intention to purchase (HI, H2, and H3). Meanwhile, three full mediation effects reveal the importance of the psychological paths that were also identified (H4, H5, and H6). The semi-structured interview results further validate the pathways outlined in the FSEP model.
The quantitative data revealed that learners’ satisfaction is a vital mediator between the flow experience and their perceived value of paid online courses. The participants articulated this relationship clearly and comprehensively. This suggests that learners form high-value expectations for paid courses only when satisfied with the process or outcome of free trials.
For the indirect path of “Flow – satisfaction – Value expectancy – Purchase intention”, one participant expressed, “If I immerse myself in a course, I would think the course is good and expect it to help me improve my academic performance. That is why I decided to pay to get more.” This underscores the foundational role of the flow state in influencing learners’ purchasing intentions. It also highlights the causal and conducive relationships among flow, satisfaction, expectancy, and purchasing.
Moreover, another indirect path, “satisfaction – Value expectancy – Purchase intention”, emerged from the interview statements. Participants noted that their satisfaction with free digital content is a basis for purchasing behaviours. One participant said, “The trial courses act as a reference point, helping me foresee the quality of the paid resources. If they satisfy me, I would feel the paid one is more valuable and useful.” This illustrates how evaluating free trial courses can help learners predict the value of paid courses. This ultimately influences their intention to purchase.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Implications for research and practice</h2>
Despite the growing willingness of learners to pay for knowledge, many online learning communities still face closure each year. This results in a significant waste of educational resources. This study examines the establishment of an economically sustainable online learning ecosystem. It can potentially balance the interests of learners, platforms, course providers, and other participants within the ecosystem.
Furthermore, the two-stage model developed in the study effectively explains online learners’ inclination to purchase paid courses. The model not only interconnects the essential components of the freemium model, encompassing both free and premium stages, but it also establishes a link between students’ past learning experience and their future intention to purchase courses.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Insights for community managers</h2>
In addition, the study also provides valuable insights for online learning community managers. Firstly, practitioners should prioritise improving the quality of free trial courses and providing an immersive learning experience for online learners. This approach can incentivise learners to purchase paid courses, thus generating revenue to build an economically sustainable <a href="https://theacademic.com/framework-personalised-e-learning-recommender-systems-k12-students/" title="online learning ecosystem">online learning ecosystem</a>.
Secondly, practitioners should focus on enhancing the utilitarian, intrinsic, hedonic, and social value of paid courses. This can be accomplished by showcasing real-life examples demonstrating how paid courses can improve academic performance or professional skills.
Thirdly, online courses possess commodity and educational attributes, allowing practitioners to employ various marketing strategies to attract learners. However, the revenue generated should primarily be used to encourage course providers to deliver high-quality online courses. This ensures a consistent supply of quality teaching and learning resources for online learners. Consequently, this approach fosters a virtuous cycle from knowledge production to consumption. It also facilitates the economically sustainable development of the online learning community.
<img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f52c.png" alt="🔬" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f9eb.png" alt="🧫" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f9ea.png" alt="🧪" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f50d.png" alt="🔍" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f913.png" alt="🤓" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f469-200d-1f52c.png" alt="👩‍🔬" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f9a0.png" alt="🦠" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f52d.png" alt="🔭" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f4da.png" alt="📚" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" />
Journal reference
Zhou, Y., Cao, G., & Shen, X. L. (2023). Building an economically sustainable online learning ecosystem with freemium model: A sequential mixed-method approach. Education and Information Technologies, 1-29. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1007/s10639-023-12347-7">https://doi.org/10.1007/s10639-023-12347-7</a>The post <a href="https://theacademic.com/strengthening-resilience-online-learning-ecosystem/">Strengthening resilience in the online learning ecosystem</a> first appeared on <a href="https://theacademic.com">The Academic</a>.]]></content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>Mining antibiotic andrimid to fight multidrug-resistant bacteria</title>
<link>https://theacademic.com/mining-antibiotic-andrimid-multidrug-resistant-bacteria/</link>
<comments>https://theacademic.com/mining-antibiotic-andrimid-multidrug-resistant-bacteria/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Lei Zhao]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Fri, 26 Apr 2024 06:29:13 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Biology]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Biotechnology]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[AdmX]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[andrimid]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Antibiotic discovery]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[antibiotic resistance]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Antibiotics]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Bioengineering]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Biosynthesis]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Biosynthetic mechanism]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[BST187]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[China Agricultural University]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[fermentation]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Gene expression]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Genetic engineering]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Industrial development]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Multidrug-resistant bacteria]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[New antibiotics]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Public health]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[regulate gene]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[University of Chinese Academy of Sciences]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://theacademic.com/?p=10068</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Mining and utilizing andrimid, a novel antibiotic targeting multidrug-resistant bacteria, presents a strategic solution amidst the rise of antibacterial superbugs.
The post <a href="https://theacademic.com/mining-antibiotic-andrimid-multidrug-resistant-bacteria/">Mining antibiotic andrimid to fight multidrug-resistant bacteria</a> first appeared on <a href="https://theacademic.com">The Academic</a>.]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[Penicillin, discovered in 1928 by British bacteriologist Alexander Fleming, was the first antibiotic in the world. While initially effective against bacterial infections, its efficacy waned over time as bacteria became more resistant to penicillin. Subsequent abuse of multiple antibiotics resulted in the proliferation of several types of drug-resistant bacteria. These bacteria pose a serious public health threat to the medical, agricultural, and industrial sectors.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Why do we need new antibiotics?</h2>
<a href="https://theacademic.com/uncovering-the-hidden-threat-antibiotic-resistance-and-health-crisis/" title="Antibiotic resistance">Antibiotic resistance</a> is an increasingly serious public health threat. Without collaborative efforts to address this issue, we risk entering an era threatened by multidrug-resistant bacteria. This could potentially compromise the progress of modern medicine, leading to a resurgence of infection-related deaths. Modeling by Rebecca Sugden et al. (shown below) predicts a significant rise in deaths caused by multidrug-resistant bacteria worldwide by 2050. Failure to develop new antibiotics could compromise our ability to treat infections effectively in the future.
A report from the World Health Organisation highlights a crucial issue. Despite the growing awareness of the threat of antibiotic resistance, the world has yet to develop much-needed new antimicrobial treatments.
Developing novel antibiotics is, therefore, critical in tackling bacterial resistance, ensuring effective infection treatment, and safeguarding public health. Consequently, researchers have been working hard to develop <a href="https://theacademic.com/antibacterial-peptide-gels-show-promise-in-fight-against-superbugs/" title="new antibacterial drugs">new antibacterial drugs</a>, with andrimid, which has non-traditional targets, being a topic of significant interest in the field. Andrimid is a promising antibiotic that inhibits the growth of prokaryotic cells by hindering the biosynthesis of fatty acids.
<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1000" height="555" src="http://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image3-7.png" alt="" class="wp-image-10070" style="width:840px;height:auto" srcset="https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image3-7.png 1000w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image3-7-300x167.png 300w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image3-7-768x426.png 768w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image3-7-18x10.png 18w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image3-7-480x266.png 480w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Figure 1: Number of antibiotic resistance-related deaths in each continent. Credit. Rebecca Sugden</figcaption></figure></div>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What is andrimid?</h2>
The study of andrimid has a longstanding history. The andrimid compound was initially isolated from the fermentation broth of a symbiotic bacterium of the brown planthopper in 1987. It showed a notable inhibitory effect on the bacterial pathogen of rice blight. In 2002, Bayer achieved chemical synthesis of andrimid. However, the high cost of chemical synthesis hindered industrial-scale production.
However, advancements in molecular technology led to scientists identifying the biosynthetic gene cluster in 2006. This laid the foundation for further research on andrimid.
It’s a promising antibiotic that prevents the growth of prokaryotic cells by hindering fatty acid biosynthesis. This is achieved by inhibiting the β-subunit of acetyl coenzyme A carboxylase, a key enzyme responsible for converting acetyl coenzyme A to malonyl coenzyme A, which is essential for microbial growth.
These characteristics make andrimid effective against multi-drug-resistant bacteria. The compound is harmless to the human body due to the differing fatty acid synthase of eukaryotes and prokaryotes, enhancing its clinical applicability.
Previously, researcher Dr Zhao and his laboratory team isolated a bacterium named <a href="https://doi.org/10.1007/s00253-023-12770-3">Erwinia persicina BST187</a> from the rhizosphere soil of tomatoes. After detection, subsequent analysis revealed that this strain could also produce andrimid. Further assessment through bacterial inhibition testing demonstrated that the BST187 strain exhibits a highly effective inhibitory effect on bacteria.
<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1002" height="422" src="http://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image1-28.png" alt="" class="wp-image-10071" style="width:840px;height:auto" srcset="https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image1-28.png 1002w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image1-28-300x126.png 300w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image1-28-768x323.png 768w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image1-28-18x8.png 18w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image1-28-480x202.png 480w" sizes="(max-width: 1002px) 100vw, 1002px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Figure 2. The effectiveness of various antibiotic drugs against bacteria. Credit. Xinyue Zhao</figcaption></figure></div>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Importance of the investigated gene admX</h2>
Industrial production and utilization of andrimid is severely hampered by the low yields of all its production strains. To tackle this problem, two promising strategies emerged: engineering the biosynthetic pathway and optimizing fermentation. Genetic engineering modifications contribute to increasing andrimid production and industrial development, as well as expanding the microbial drug resource pool. In addition, they help alleviate strain resistance issues and provide better protection for human health and the ecological environment.
When addressing the application of modern biotechnology in microbial modification, genetic engineering is worth mentioning. It has become a widely employed strategy for optimizing substrate utilization and product generation rates by altering the metabolic pathways of microorganisms. For example, through gene editing and modulation, we can enhance the ability of microorganisms to absorb and transform substrates, thereby increasing yields. Moreover, when performing strain modification, targeted key steps in the metabolic pathway often yield significant improvements.
Within the BST 187 strain, there is a gene called admX which plays an important role in regulating andrimid production. Dr Zhao’s laboratory team observed that adjusting the expression level of the admX gene significantly impacts andrimid synthesis. Gradually increasing admX gene expression can significantly increase andrimid yield. However, excessive expression of admX resulted in decreased yield.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The significance of the study on andrimid</h2>
The findings of this study are important for andrimid production and optimisation because it reveals how to balance gene expression levels for optimal yield during synthesis. In the subsequent study, the researcher obtained a new high-yielding strain by regulating the expression level of admX: BST187ΔadmX/pET28a-Pgap-1::admX. This modification resulted in a 260% increase in andrimid yield over 18 hours of fermentation.
This study provides important insights into the biosynthetic mechanism of andrimid, deepening our understanding of its production process. It also highlights the potential applications of andrimid in biomedical and bio-agricultural fields.
In the future, these discoveries will pave the way for large-scale production of andrimid, offering improved solutions for combating infections and diseases. The ongoing exploration of andrimid continues, with scientists committed to further exploration to maximize the potential of this potent antibiotic.
<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1009" height="441" src="http://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image2-23.png" alt="" class="wp-image-10072" style="width:841px;height:auto" srcset="https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image2-23.png 1009w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image2-23-300x131.png 300w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image2-23-768x336.png 768w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image2-23-18x8.png 18w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image2-23-480x210.png 480w" sizes="(max-width: 1009px) 100vw, 1009px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Figure 3: Animated image of andrimid combating bacteria Credit. Sohu.com</figcaption></figure></div>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Conclusion</h2>
Research on andrimid not only enhances our understanding of the biosynthetic mechanisms of antibiotics but also opens up a new path for antibiotic discovery. More importantly, this study demonstrates the viability of genetic engineering in increasing andrimid production, providing new ideas for production optimization and industrial development. In addition, it instills confidence in the exploration and utilization of new natural products. 
Through continuous exploration, we may uncover more valuable resources similar to andrimid, further benefiting human health. For the further development of the new antibiotic, the mining of new antibiotics, such as glycopeptide antibiotics extracted from Streptomyces, may serve as a reserve resource for combating multidrug-resistant bacteria. Besides, The development and modification of new antibiotic drugs are an important part of global health and safety issues. At present, non-ribosomal peptide polyketone compounds may be able to adapt to the evolution of drug resistance by modifying different structural domains, while internal gene modifications are very interesting.
<img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f52c.png" alt="🔬" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f9eb.png" alt="🧫" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f9ea.png" alt="🧪" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f50d.png" alt="🔍" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f913.png" alt="🤓" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f469-200d-1f52c.png" alt="👩‍🔬" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f9a0.png" alt="🦠" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f52d.png" alt="🔭" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f4da.png" alt="📚" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" />
Journal reference
Zhao, L., Ge, T., Cheng, T., Wang, Q., Cui, M., Yuan, H., & Zhao, L. (2023). Fine-tuning gene expression of regulator AdmX for improved biosynthesis of andrimid in Erwinia persicina BST187. Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology, 107(22), 6775-6788. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1007/s00253-023-12770-3">https://doi.org/10.1007/s00253-023-12770-3</a>The post <a href="https://theacademic.com/mining-antibiotic-andrimid-multidrug-resistant-bacteria/">Mining antibiotic andrimid to fight multidrug-resistant bacteria</a> first appeared on <a href="https://theacademic.com">The Academic</a>.]]></content:encoded>
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<title>Droughts and HIV transmission in sub-Saharan Africa</title>
<link>https://theacademic.com/droughts-hiv-transmission-sub-saharan-africa/</link>
<comments>https://theacademic.com/droughts-hiv-transmission-sub-saharan-africa/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Adam Trickey]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Wed, 24 Apr 2024 19:19:13 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Climate change]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Epidemiology]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Sexual health]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[AIDS]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Climate Change]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Columbia University]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Droughts]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Food insecurity]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[HIV transmission]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[ICAP at Columbia University]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Incidence]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Makerere University]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[poverty]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Rainfall]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Rural areas]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Sexual behavior]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Sub-Saharan Africa]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[UN agencies]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[University of Bristol]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[University of Cape Town]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[University of Potsdam]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Urban areas]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://theacademic.com/?p=10062</guid>
<description><![CDATA[The risk of acquiring HIV is higher for drought-exposed women in rural areas of Sub-Saharan Africa than those not exposed to drought, signalling a need for deliberate responses.
The post <a href="https://theacademic.com/droughts-hiv-transmission-sub-saharan-africa/">Droughts and HIV transmission in sub-Saharan Africa</a> first appeared on <a href="https://theacademic.com">The Academic</a>.]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<a href="https://www.unaids.org/en/resources/presscentre/featurestories/2008/july/20080707examininglinksbetweenaidsandclimate">UN agencies</a> have previously hypothesised that droughts could increase HIV transmission in sub-Saharan Africa. This could occur as droughts exacerbate poverty and food insecurity. This may, in turn, lead to behavioural changes, especially in sexual behaviour.
Farmers in rural areas could be especially vulnerable to droughts, which could directly impact their livelihoods. Meanwhile, people in urban areas may experience more indirect effects.
Some evidence suggests that women could be <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33250551/#:~:text=Overall%2C%20our%20findings%20demonstrate%20that,%3B%20Gender%3B%20HIV%2FAIDS">particularly impacted</a>. Women farmers who are affected by drought may resort to “survival sex” in exchange <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22089434/">for food or money</a>. Figure 1 illustrates other potential mechanisms linking climate change and HIV transmission.
<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1034" height="717" src="https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image3-6.png" alt="" class="wp-image-10063" style="width:840px;height:auto" srcset="https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image3-6.png 1034w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image3-6-300x208.png 300w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image3-6-1024x710.png 1024w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image3-6-768x533.png 768w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image3-6-18x12.png 18w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image3-6-480x333.png 480w" sizes="(max-width: 1034px) 100vw, 1034px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Figure 1. Theoretical framework illustrating the links between climate change, drought, and HIV transmission. Credit. Author</figcaption></figure></div>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">HIV, subsistence farming, and drought</h2>
In certain sub-Saharan African countries, <a href="https://web.archive.org/web/20220425032850/https:/www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/field/hiv-aids-adult-prevalence-rate/country-comparison">one in five adults</a> has HIV. Across the region, there are around <a href="https://www.unaids.org/en/resources/fact-sheet">25 million people</a> living with HIV. Also, about 65% of Africa’s population relies on <a href="https://borgenproject.org/10-facts-about-farming-in-africa/#:~:text=Roughly%2065%20percent%20of%20Africa%E2%80%99s%20population%20relies%20on,to%20last%20the%20family%20until%20the%20following%20harvest.">subsistence farming</a>. This renders them particularly vulnerable to droughts.
These droughts <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/2024/04/04/climate/southern-africa-hunger-drought-floods-climate-intl/index.html#:~:text=Tens%20of%20millions%20facing%20hunger,and%20floods%20sweep%20southern%20Africa&text=A%20field%20of%20failed%20corn,the%20driest%20February%20in%20decades.">affect large numbers of people</a> in various African regions. Additionally, evidence suggests that the <a href="https://www.ipcc.ch/report/ar6/wg2/">risk of droughts in Africa is increasing</a>. This could mean that even more people in sub-Saharan Africa will be affected by droughts in the coming years, including those living with HIV.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Measuring the associations between drought and HIV transmission</h2>
In a study published in <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10461-024-04280-8">AIDS and Behavior</a>, my co-authors and I aimed to investigate whether people in sub-Saharan Africa who had recently been exposed to drought were more likely to acquire HIV than those not exposed to drought.
This is the first study to look at people acquiring HIV during or after a drought period. Some previous studies have found some evidence of links between droughts and HIV, but these studies did not provide insight into whether HIV acquisition occurred before or after drought events. In contrast, our study utilised a measure of recent HIV acquisition, providing a more nuanced understanding of the relationship.
We combined data from five nationally-representative surveys of adults conducted in 2016 in Eswatini, Lesotho, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia (Figure 2). Our analysis encompassed data on over 100,000 individuals.
Subsequently, we cross-referenced these data with precipitation records to determine whether each household resided in an area that experienced much less <a href="https://theacademic.com/explainable-ai-identify-long-term-variations-in-short-term-forecast/" title="rainfall">rainfall</a> than usual in 2014–2016 compared with 1981–2016, thus defining drought areas. We then used statistical models to ascertain whether individuals exposed to drought were more likely to have recently acquired HIV compared to their non-exposed counterparts.
<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="745" height="738" src="http://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image2-22.png" alt="" class="wp-image-10065" srcset="https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image2-22.png 745w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image2-22-300x297.png 300w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image2-22-150x150.png 150w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image2-22-12x12.png 12w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image2-22-480x475.png 480w" sizes="(max-width: 745px) 100vw, 745px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Figure 2. Countries included in the study. Credit. Author</figcaption></figure></div>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Women in rural areas are potentially at risk</h2>
Our findings indicate that women living in rural areas recently exposed to droughts had a higher likelihood of acquiring HIV than those who were not exposed to droughts. However, this did not apply to women in urban areas or men in rural or urban areas.
These results also suggest that droughts could heighten HIV transmission among women in rural areas of sub-Saharan Africa. This could occur through exacerbating poverty, thereby influencing sexual risk behaviours, which in turn impact HIV transmission rates.
Despite potentially small changes, given the large number of people living with HIV in Africa and the large percentage experiencing drought, the cumulative effect of droughts could still result in a considerable number of new HIV cases. Moreover, climate change may increase the frequency of droughts in the future, which could lead to increased HIV transmission rates.
<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="500" height="333" src="http://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image1-9.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-10066" srcset="https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image1-9.jpg 500w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image1-9-300x200.jpg 300w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image1-9-18x12.jpg 18w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image1-9-480x320.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Figure 3. Parched land. Credit. Author</figcaption></figure></div>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Addressing the issue</h2>
Researchers must conduct further studies to explore the pathways linking drought and HIV transmission. Understanding the potential impact of future climate change on HIV through drought is also imperative. Since sub-Saharan African countries contribute minimally to global emissions driving climate change, addressing this issue necessitates <a href="https://www.ipcc.ch/report/ar6/wg2/">a global response</a>.
More localised responses may also prove effective in dealing with the effects of climate change on HIV. Evidence suggests that <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34843468/">social protection cash transfer programmes</a> can effectively reduce risky sexual behaviours, particularly among young women.
Additionally, further increasing coverage of HIV treatment and enhancing viral suppression levels among people living with HIV could also help reduce HIV transmission, even amidst increased risky sexual practices. Studies have shown that individuals successfully managing to suppress HIV through treatment <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27424812/">do not transmit the virus</a>.
Therefore, if everyone living with HIV maintained suppressed viral loads, theoretically, there would be no further HIV transmission. Many countries in sub-Saharan Africa have made significant strides towards, and in some cases achieved, <a href="https://aidstargets2025.unaids.org/">UNAIDS’s 95-95-95 goals</a>. The goals aim to ensure that 95% of people with HIV receive a diagnosis, 95% of those diagnosed receive treatment, and 95% of those on treatment achieve suppressed viral loads.
However, adherence to HIV treatment may decline in the face of <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8937041/#:~:text=At%20the%20end%20of%20the,%5D)%20were%20predictive%20of%20LTFU.">food insecurity</a>, which is strongly linked to poverty and drought. This highlights the need for additional interventions to mitigate this problem. Such interventions include better <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8634318/">water storage and irrigation systems</a>.
<img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f52c.png" alt="🔬" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f9eb.png" alt="🧫" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f9ea.png" alt="🧪" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f50d.png" alt="🔍" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f913.png" alt="🤓" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f469-200d-1f52c.png" alt="👩‍🔬" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f9a0.png" alt="🦠" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f52d.png" alt="🔭" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f4da.png" alt="📚" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" />
Journal reference
Trickey, A., Johnson, L. F., Bonifacio, R., Kiragga, A., Howard, G., Biraro, S., … & Vickerman, P. (2024). Investigating the Associations between Drought, Poverty, High-Risk Sexual Behaviours, and HIV Incidence in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Cross-Sectional Study. AIDS and Behavior. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1007/s10461-024-04280-8">https://doi.org/10.1007/s10461-024-04280-8</a>The post <a href="https://theacademic.com/droughts-hiv-transmission-sub-saharan-africa/">Droughts and HIV transmission in sub-Saharan Africa</a> first appeared on <a href="https://theacademic.com">The Academic</a>.]]></content:encoded>
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<title>Decoding the power of formality in effective communication</title>
<link>https://theacademic.com/power-of-formality-effective-communication/</link>
<comments>https://theacademic.com/power-of-formality-effective-communication/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Mohammed Salah Hassan]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Tue, 23 Apr 2024 18:27:05 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Media & communication]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Psychology]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Casual Communication]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Communication Dynamics]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Communication Research]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Communication Strategies]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Effective Messaging]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Formal Communication]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Formal messages]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Formality Effect]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Formality in Communication]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Government Communication]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Government Messaging]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Harvard Kennedy School]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Human Behaviour]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Modern College of Business and Science]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Public Perception]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Social policy]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[University of London]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://theacademic.com/?p=10013</guid>
<description><![CDATA[What is the psychological impact of formal language on communication effectiveness, and how does formality influence attention and action?
The post <a href="https://theacademic.com/power-of-formality-effective-communication/">Decoding the power of formality in effective communication</a> first appeared on <a href="https://theacademic.com">The Academic</a>.]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[In today’s world, where texting and emojis are part of our daily communication, one might assume that the government needs to adopt a casual approach to attract attention. However, a fascinating study conducted by researchers at Harvard Kennedy School has challenged this notion. They have discovered the “<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41562-023-01761-z">Formality Effect</a>,” which suggests that when the government communicates with us formally and officially, we are more inclined to listen and comply with its directives.
Picture this: You’re sorting through your mail, and amidst the usual bills and flyers, you find two letters from the local authorities. One looks highly official, like something you’d get from a lawyer’s office—with a serious font and devoid of embellishments. The other looks bright and cheerful, like an invitation to a local concert. Which one grabs your attention and compels you to take immediate action?
<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="1024" src="https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/neliti_Decoding_the_power_of_formality_in_effective_communicati_6b162754-c75f-47d1-adaa-f4b968bead34-1024x1024.png" alt="" class="wp-image-10086" srcset="https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/neliti_Decoding_the_power_of_formality_in_effective_communicati_6b162754-c75f-47d1-adaa-f4b968bead34-1024x1024.png 1024w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/neliti_Decoding_the_power_of_formality_in_effective_communicati_6b162754-c75f-47d1-adaa-f4b968bead34-300x300.png 300w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/neliti_Decoding_the_power_of_formality_in_effective_communicati_6b162754-c75f-47d1-adaa-f4b968bead34-150x150.png 150w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/neliti_Decoding_the_power_of_formality_in_effective_communicati_6b162754-c75f-47d1-adaa-f4b968bead34-768x768.png 768w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/neliti_Decoding_the_power_of_formality_in_effective_communicati_6b162754-c75f-47d1-adaa-f4b968bead34-1536x1536.png 1536w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/neliti_Decoding_the_power_of_formality_in_effective_communicati_6b162754-c75f-47d1-adaa-f4b968bead34-12x12.png 12w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/neliti_Decoding_the_power_of_formality_in_effective_communicati_6b162754-c75f-47d1-adaa-f4b968bead34-480x480.png 480w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/neliti_Decoding_the_power_of_formality_in_effective_communicati_6b162754-c75f-47d1-adaa-f4b968bead34.png 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Credit. Midjourney</figcaption></figure></div>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The surprise discovery</h2>
According to the study led by Elizabeth Linos and her team, chances are that the formal one gets you moving.
The research team conducted both online and real-life studies involving over 67,000 participants to examine reactions to different government messages. They analysed businesses registering as owned by minorities or women, individuals signing up for emergency medical services, and families applying for tax credits.
What they found was surprising. Contrary to many expert beliefs, the more formal letters—with no fancy colours or <a href="https://theacademic.com/minds-and-machines-with-ai-chatbots/" title="casual chat">casual chat</a>—yielded superior results.
According to this study, if a letter seems more official, you are more inclined to take action—like registering your business in a unique programme. In one city, businesses were 25% more likely to respond to a formal letter than a casual one. Moreover, this effect extended beyond businesses as individuals were more inclined to sign up for a medical service when the invitation was formal.
This discovery is a game-changer. It suggests that adhering to a formal tone may be more effective when the government seeks to capture our attention and prompt action. It’s not that fun; colorful messages are ineffective; rather, the traditional, formal approach possesses unique effectiveness in accomplishing tasks.
However, before assuming that everything must become dull and conventional, consider this: the key takeaway lies in finding the right mix. Governments can maintain creativity while leveraging the formal approach when seeking our attention and action.
In a nutshell, this study highlights the value of embracing traditional formalities. So, the next time you get a highly official-looking letter from the city, know there’s a good reason for its dignified appearance. It aims to capture our attention and prompt us to take action for the betterment of our communities.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Why does formality work?</h2>
So why do we pay more attention to these formal messages? The researchers posit that we perceive them as more credible and meaningful. When something looks official, we tend to take it more seriously.
It is akin to dressing up for a job interview; it signifies seriousness and professionalism. Similarly, with government messages, the formal presentation leads us to perceive them as more legitimate, compelling us to consider complying with their requests.
This doesn’t imply that every government message must be boring or difficult to understand. The key is finding the right balance between clarity and respectfulness while ensuring people grasp the message’s significance.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What this means for the future</h2>
This discovery could change how governments and other big organisations communicate with the public. Rather than attempting to adopt a familiar tone, they might stick to a more formal one to underscore the seriousness of their messages. But it also serves as a reminder that simplicity and clarity are essential. Just because a formal letter is formal doesn’t justify filling it with complicated jargon that may be incomprehensible to the recipient.
The notion that formal messages can be more effective is a wake-up call. In a world full of flashy ads and social media, one might expect that the most effective way to capture attention is to be as loud and visually striking as possible. But it turns out that, regarding important matters such as health services or tax benefits, being straightforward and somewhat formal proves more effective.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Looking ahead</h2>
This study raises several questions for future research. For instance, does this formal effect operate uniformly across all countries, or does it depend on individuals’ perceptions of their government? Additionally, are there specific situations where a casual approach may yield better results?
For the time being, the message to governments seems to be that sometimes, adhering to the established method of formality is more effective if they wish to capture people’s attention. It’s not about being distant or rigid, but rather demonstrating the significance of the message being conveyed.
Ultimately, this study shows the significant impact of message delivery on people’s responses. As we navigate a world saturated with information, perhaps taking a moment to consider the tone and presentation of our messages—whether as a government agency or simply sending an email to a colleague—could be the key to eliciting the desired response.
The “Formality Effect” might sound like something from a boring textbook. Still, it is a powerful lesson in real-world communication dynamics. Whether you’re running a government agency or just trying to get your kids to listen to you, the way you convey a message matters as much as the message itself. So, before you sprinkle emojis in your next message, consider how a touch of formality could enhance its impact.
<img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f52c.png" alt="🔬" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f9eb.png" alt="🧫" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f9ea.png" alt="🧪" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f50d.png" alt="🔍" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f913.png" alt="🤓" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f469-200d-1f52c.png" alt="👩‍🔬" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f9a0.png" alt="🦠" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f52d.png" alt="🔭" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f4da.png" alt="📚" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" />
Journal reference
Linos, E., Lasky-Fink, J., Larkin, C., Moore, L., & Kirkman, E. (2023). The formality effect. Nature Human Behaviour, 1-11. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1038/s41562-023-01761-z">https://doi.org/10.1038/s41562-023-01761-z</a>The post <a href="https://theacademic.com/power-of-formality-effective-communication/">Decoding the power of formality in effective communication</a> first appeared on <a href="https://theacademic.com">The Academic</a>.]]></content:encoded>
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<title>The role of necessity-based female entrepreneurship in job creation</title>
<link>https://theacademic.com/necessity-based-female-entrepreneurship-job-creation/</link>
<comments>https://theacademic.com/necessity-based-female-entrepreneurship-job-creation/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Wei Deng]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Mon, 22 Apr 2024 19:04:20 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Business]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Gender studies]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Management]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Adult Population Survey (APS)]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Dual legitimacy]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Economic Empowerment]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Entrepreneurial legitimacy]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Family and business balance]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Family responsibilities]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Female entrepreneurship]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Gender Equality]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM)]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Government support]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Institutional logic]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Job creation]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Legitimacy]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[necessity-based female entrepreneurship]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Northwestern Polytechnical University]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[University of Adelaide]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Women in business]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Xi'an Jiaotong University]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://theacademic.com/?p=9979</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Against all odds, necessity-based female entrepreneurship catalyses job growth, challenging traditional gender roles and fostering economic empowerment.
The post <a href="https://theacademic.com/necessity-based-female-entrepreneurship-job-creation/">The role of necessity-based female entrepreneurship in job creation</a> first appeared on <a href="https://theacademic.com">The Academic</a>.]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[As economies worldwide grapple with the monumental task of creating new jobs, the critical role of entrepreneurship is becoming more important. Yet, the potential impact of <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10490-023-09930-4">necessity-based female entrepreneurship</a> (NBFE) on job creation remains a puzzle, despite its prevalence worldwide. NBFE, where women embark on entrepreneurial ventures to fulfill basic needs or to <a href="https://theacademic.com/work-family-balance-in-the-tourism-sector/">balance</a> economic pursuits with domestic care responsibilities, often faces criticism for underperformance and limited growth potential.
The <a href="https://unstats.un.org/sdgs/report/2021/">United Nations’ SDG report for 2021</a> highlights that women shoulder, on average, 2.5 times the burden of unpaid domestic and care work compared to men. In addition, women often perceive family responsibilities as more legitimate than economic activities, recognising legitimacy as an essential catalyst for entrepreneurial survival and success. Hence, this raises a fundamental yet critical question: can NBFE lead to new job creation, and if so, under what legitimacy framework?
<a href="https://doi.org/10.1007/s10490-023-09930-4">A study</a> by a team of academics from Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an Jiaotong University, and University of Adelaide, offers fresh insights into the interplay between institutional logic, legitimacy, and entrepreneurship. The study also challenges traditional perceptions of female entrepreneurship. It examined 1,890 female entrepreneurs from 20 countries, drawing data from the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) Adult Population Survey (APS) 2013 dataset.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Legitimacy in female entrepreneurship</h2>
In the business world, the level of trust and support for female entrepreneurs is crucial. It entails getting approval from business partners, customers, and others, constituting legitimacy in the business sphere. Conversely, at home, it hinges on support from family and friends, who typically perceive women as caregivers, thereby representing legitimacy in their private lives. Succeeding as a female entrepreneur requires meeting expectations from both sides. Striking a balance between business and family is key to making a positive impact.
<blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow">
Can necessity-based female entrepreneurship fuel job creation? The key to this lies in the level of is how much support extended to female entrepreneurship, particularly these women get both from their families and from the business community.
<cite>Wei Deng</cite></blockquote>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Dual legitimacy as a catalyst for enhancing job creation</h2>
<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1170" height="628" src="https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image1-8.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-9981" srcset="https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image1-8.jpg 1170w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image1-8-300x161.jpg 300w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image1-8-1024x550.jpg 1024w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image1-8-768x412.jpg 768w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image1-8-18x10.jpg 18w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image1-8-480x258.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Figure 1. Legitimacy of female entrepreneurs under family and market logics Credit. Authors</figcaption></figure></div>
Condition 1: In this scenario, necessity-based women entrepreneurs receive respect and support both at home and at work. This creates a harmonious balance between family and business goals, allowing these women to pursue their mission without experiencing conflicts between the two spheres. Such favourable situations empower women to effecrively manage both entrepreneurship and family responsibilities effecrively, ultimately leading to the creation of more job opportunities.
Condition 2: Here, women who start businesses out of necessity don’t get much respect at home but are valued in the business world. Despite their familial responsibilities, they feel pressured by market demands, leading to a perpetual juggling act that can be draining. This constant juggling between meeting market demands and attending to family responsibilities can lead to challenging decisions for female entrepreneurs. This delicate balance may potentially jeopardise their businesses and job prospects, posing a challenging predicament for these women.
Condition 3: This scenario shows that necessity-based female entrepreneurs are respected at home but are not taken seriously in the business world. So, they priorotise family needs over business demands. While they may not benefit from extensive market support, support from families and friends assists in job creation.
Condition 4: Here, women who start businesses out of necessity enocunter a lack of respect from their families and the business world. They face challenges from limited resources and support, leading them to run small businesses with minimal staffing. However, owing to low expectations, they experience less emotional strain. This results in less impact on job creation when compared to Condition 2.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Importance of female entrepreneurship</h2>
Female entrepreneurs can effectively balance both family and business demands by integrating their goals, values, and strategies from both sides. This challenges previous expert opinions and significantly impacts our understanding of job creation and entrepreneurship.
Actionable implications for female entrepreneurs, stakeholders, and policymakers
<ol>
<li>Encourage business acceptance: Female entrepreneurs can boost their businesses by grasping local rules and expectations and utilising personal connections to gain community acceptance. This can then facilitate job creation.</li>
<li>Enhance legitimacy: Both families and the business community can help women starting businesses be seen as legitimate. This, in turn, fosters job creation for necessity-based businesses.</li>
<li>Improve government support: Governments can enact supportive policies and initiatives tailored specifically for women starting necessity-driven businesses. This includes provisions of training, mentoring, and financial assistance, aimed at bolstering the acceptance and success of such businesses.</li>
</ol>
<img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f52c.png" alt="🔬" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f9eb.png" alt="🧫" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f9ea.png" alt="🧪" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f50d.png" alt="🔍" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f913.png" alt="🤓" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f469-200d-1f52c.png" alt="👩‍🔬" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f9a0.png" alt="🦠" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f52d.png" alt="🔭" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f4da.png" alt="📚" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" />
Journal reference
Deng, W., Liang, Q., Zhang, S. X., & Wang, W. (2023). Beyond survival: necessity-based female entrepreneurship as a catalyst for job creation through dual legitimacy. Asia Pacific Journal of Management, 1-28. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1007/s10490-023-09930-4">https://doi.org/10.1007/s10490-023-09930-4</a>The post <a href="https://theacademic.com/necessity-based-female-entrepreneurship-job-creation/">The role of necessity-based female entrepreneurship in job creation</a> first appeared on <a href="https://theacademic.com">The Academic</a>.]]></content:encoded>
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</item>
<item>
<title>How heat waves will change in India under future climates</title>
<link>https://theacademic.com/heat-waves-change-india-future-climates/</link>
<comments>https://theacademic.com/heat-waves-change-india-future-climates/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Arulalan T]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Fri, 19 Apr 2024 13:55:47 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Climate change]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Climatology]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Meteorology]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Public policy]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Adaptation science]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Adaptation strategies]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Climate Change]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Climate Knowledge]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[climate policy]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Climate Science]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Future Climate]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[global warming]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Health Risks]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Heatwaves]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[India]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Indian Institute of Technology Delhi]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Monsoon Season]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Policy Recommendations]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Sustainable Future]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://theacademic.com/?p=10010</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Preparing effectively for future heat waves in India requires comprehensive strategies that extend beyond short-term disaster plans.
The post <a href="https://theacademic.com/heat-waves-change-india-future-climates/">How heat waves will change in India under future climates</a> first appeared on <a href="https://theacademic.com">The Academic</a>.]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[A recent study analysed future heat waves using observations and model simulations across different climate scenarios: historical, +1.5 °C, and +2.0 °C warmer worlds. It underscored why understanding climate change and predicting future climate events are crucial. Moreso for developing countries like India.
The findings of the study suggest that, while the highest temperatures may not rise significantly, heat waves may last longer and cover larger areas. This poses greater health risks, especially during the monsoon season when humidity is high. Essentially, this suggests that new areas in India may become prone to heat waves.
The study predicts a significant increase in the frequency and severity of future heat wave events compared to past observations. This highlights the need for long-term adaptation strategies beyond current disaster planning efforts. The study does not explore specific adaptation measures. However, it highlights the importance of enhancing climate knowledge to inform effective adaptation policies.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Data used</h2>
Researchers obtained observational data, comprising daily <a href="https://www.imdpune.gov.in/cmpg/Griddata/Max_1_Bin.html">maximum</a> and <a href="https://www.imdpune.gov.in/cmpg/Griddata/Min_1_Bin.html">minimum</a> temperatures from 1951 to 2015, from the India Meteorological Department (IMD). This data, collected at a resolution of 1° latitude × 1° longitude, was sourced by interpolating data from 395 stations across India.
<blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow">
In India, “Hot Days” have evolved into “Heatwave” conditions across many regions in the last six decades. Expect increased and prolonged heatwaves in worlds with temperatures rising by +1.5°C and +2.0°C.
<cite>Arulalan T</cite></blockquote>
<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="800" src="https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/10584_2023_3527_Fig1_HTML-1024x800.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-10056" style="width:840px;height:auto" srcset="https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/10584_2023_3527_Fig1_HTML-1024x800.webp 1024w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/10584_2023_3527_Fig1_HTML-300x234.webp 300w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/10584_2023_3527_Fig1_HTML-768x600.webp 768w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/10584_2023_3527_Fig1_HTML-15x12.webp 15w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/10584_2023_3527_Fig1_HTML-480x375.webp 480w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/10584_2023_3527_Fig1_HTML.webp 1418w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Figure 1. Heat waves over India in the 1.5°C and 2°C warmer worlds Credit. <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10584-023-03527-y" title="">Climatic Change</a></figcaption></figure></div>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Model data</h2>
The study utilised data from the <a href="https://www.happimip.org/">HAPPI</a> (Half a degree Additional warming, Prognosis and Projected Impacts) project accessible from the <a href="https://portal.nersc.gov/c20c">C20C + Detection and Attribution Project</a>. It incorporated simulations from five global models for three time periods: historical (2006–2015), +1.5°C future, and +2°C future. These simulations aimed to assess the <a href="https://theacademic.com/mediterranean-society-climate-change/">impacts of climate change</a> in line with the Paris Agreement.
For the 1.5°C scenario, a weighted multi-model mean derived from the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase-5 (CMIP5) under the representative concentration pathway 2.6 (RCP2.6) provided boundary conditions to all models. Meanwhile, a weighted combination of RCP2.6 and RCP4.5 set the boundary conditions for the 2°C scenario of the HAPPI project. The experiments quantified the impacts on weather-related risks corresponding to + 1.5°C and + 2°C of warming relative to pre-industrial conditions, as mandated by the Paris Agreement.
The five global models allow for the examination of low-probability events. The analysis drew upon the output from the five models, each with 100 members for each experimental scenario. The model outputs were subsequently re-gridded to match the resolution of the IMD dataset and undergo bias correction before analysis. The study authors focused on the March-August period to capture any shifts in heat waves attributable to warmer climates.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Study results</h2>
The study compared five global HAPPI model simulations with observations from 2006 to 2015. Overall, the models closely aligned with the observed data, especially regarding the frequency of hot days and heatwave events. However, there were some discrepancies, particularly in regions like the North East and Central India,  where the models exhibited higher mean errors before bias correction. To rectify this, researchers applied bias correction to the HAPPI model outputs, drawing from IMD’s long-term observed temperature dataset.
Hot days transpired across the country, with an average duration of approximately two days. Meanwhile, heatwave and severe heatwave events, lasting around three days, had similar distributions. Observers mostly noted these events in regions like the northern plains and the southeastern coast.
Over the past six decades, there has been a declining trend in the duration of hot days across India. However, researchers observed an upward trend in the northwest and southeast regions. An increase in heat wave duration, particularly in those regions, offset this decline. Moreover, the northwest and southeast regions experienced more frequent and longer hot day events in recent years, indicating a positive trend. Conversely, there was a consistent decrease in event duration and frequency along the eastern edge of the Gangetic plain, possibly due to increased anthropogenic aerosols.
<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="519" src="https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/FIgure-2-1024x519.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-10046" srcset="https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/FIgure-2-1024x519.webp 1024w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/FIgure-2-300x152.webp 300w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/FIgure-2-768x389.webp 768w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/FIgure-2-18x9.webp 18w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/FIgure-2-480x243.webp 480w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/FIgure-2.webp 1417w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Figure 2. Climate science to inform adaptation policy: Heat waves over India in the 1.5°C and 2°C warmer worlds Credit. <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10584-023-03527-y" title="">Climatic Change</a></figcaption></figure></div>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Future projections of heat waves</h2>
Examining large heatwave events with high mortality rates, the study identified six deadly heat wave events between 2009 and 2015. It evaluated their intensity, duration, and spatial extent under present and future +1.5°C and +2°C climate scenarios. It found that the duration and area of these events were likely to increase dramatically in the future, with some grid cells showing durations of up to 30–40 days in the most extreme scenarios.
Analysing future changes, the study found an increasing likelihood of heat events occuring from April to July, especially in May and June, across different temperature rise scenarios. Both +1.5°C and +2°C future scenarios showed an increased probability of heat waves in June and July, coinciding with the peak of the Indian monsoon season and high humidity levels, thereby amplifying the health risks associated with heat events (heat index). The study projected a significant increase in the duration and frequency of future heat events, with shorter events becoming 2–10 times more probable and longer events increasing by a factor of 10–30.
Overall, the highest temperatures during heat waves may not increase significantly. In contrast, the duration and spatial extent of these events are expected to trend upward substantially. This will likely give rise to new heatwave-prone areas in India, posing significant challenges for adaptation and mitigation efforts.
<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="847" src="https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/figure3-1024x847.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-10059" srcset="https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/figure3-1024x847.webp 1024w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/figure3-300x248.webp 300w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/figure3-768x635.webp 768w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/figure3-15x12.webp 15w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/figure3-480x397.webp 480w, https://theacademic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/figure3.webp 1417w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Figure 3. Heat waves over India in the 1.5°C and 2°C warmer worlds Credit. <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10584-023-03527-y" title="">Climatic Change</a></figcaption></figure></div>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Discussion and conclusion</h2>
The authors of this study used observations and models to compare past and future heat waves. The models needed adjustments to accurately reflect the observed temperatures, aligning them with real data.
In warmer climates, heat waves will occur more frequently and last longer than they did from 2006 to 2015. Areas that have not experienced many heat waves before may face them in the future. This is especially true during the monsoon season in June and July, when humidity levels rise. The study did not directly examine the impact of humidity. However, it highlights the importance of considering it for healthcare planning during heat waves.
The researchers also studied six deadly heatwaves occurring between 2006 and 2015 to assess potential future changes. They observed more pronounced differences between historical and +1.5 °C climates than those between +1.5 °C and +2.0 °C. The influence of aerosols on temperatures in South Asia could explain this variation.
The study shows that future heat waves will likely cover larger areas and last longer. Already, in 2022, prolonged heat waves affected Northwest India and Southeast Pakistan early in the year. Dealing with these prolonged and widespread heat waves poses significant challenges for many sectors, including health, agriculture, and energy.
Preparing for future heat waves will require long-term adaptation strategies. However, this study did not explore them. This emphasises the importance of having comprehensive climate information to facilitate future planning.
The study also underlines the need for stronger climate science efforts, especially in developing nations like India. Initiatives like the <a href="https://www.greenclimate.fund/ae/wmo">GCF-WMO</a> Climate Science Information for Climate <a href="https://wmo.int/media/news/climate-ambition-summit-increases-commitment-early-warnings-all">Action</a> can help enhance climate information and prepare for future changes. Ultimately, local expertise in generating relevant climate knowledge will be crucial for effective adaptation planning.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Policy recommendations</h2>
<a href="https://www.ipcc.ch/sr15/chapter/spm/" title="A special report">A special report</a> by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) <a href="https://www.cambridge.org/core/books/global-warming-of-15c/summary-for-policymakers/31C38E590392F74C7341928B681FF668">for policymakers</a> emphasised the urgency of limiting global warming to 1.5°C. It warned that, without immediate action, achieving this goal may be <a href="https://twitter.com/IPCC_CH/status/1771196216614785493">unattainable by 2030</a>.
Current emissions trajectories indicate that India continues to make a substantial contribution to the climate crisis. This necessitates accelerated reductions, supported by international collaborations, to align with global climate objectives. Despite this, India’s climate targets and actions are still rated as “Highly insufficient” by the <a href="https://climateactiontracker.org/countries/india/">Climate Action Tracker</a>.
The recognition of the <a href="https://main.sci.gov.in/supremecourt/2019/20754/20754_2019_1_25_51677_Judgement_21-Mar-2024.pdf">Right To Be Free</a> From Adverse Effects Of Climate Change report by the Supreme Court of India highlights the need for equitable action. Climate change may impact the constitutional guarantee of the right to equality, particularly traditional activities such as fishing and hunting, which are vital sources of sustenance for people in plain areas of the country. As emissions <a href="https://apnews.com/article/carbon-dioxide-methane-global-warming-climate-change-94424de6b22f1f734b1afd6bce8489b2">continue to soar</a>, particularly from <a href="https://apnews.com/article/carbon-dioxide-climate-change-china-india-aa25e5a4271aa45810c435280bb97879">major contributors</a> like China, India, and aviation, the time to mitigate climate change rapidly diminishes.
The UN climate agency chief stressed the need for urgent action to curb emissions and constrain the rise in global temperature. He warned that there is a <a href="https://apnews.com/article/climate-change-finance-un-elections-stiell-0b176237b1e4a78d28d5dbcbbf7809f0">two-year window</a> to implement drastic emissions reductions. India’s leveraging of its extensive <a href="https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1888480" title="">road network</a> for tree planting could mitigate carbon emissions and improve local air quality. However, the contribution of individual trees to overall oxygen levels remains limited.
Globally, leaders and individuals must prioritise tree planting initiatives alongside other measures like renewable energy and fossil fuel reduction. Collective action is crucial to addressing anthropogenic climate change and ensuring a sustainable future for all.
<img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f52c.png" alt="🔬" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f9eb.png" alt="🧫" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f9ea.png" alt="🧪" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f50d.png" alt="🔍" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f913.png" alt="🤓" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f469-200d-1f52c.png" alt="👩‍🔬" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f9a0.png" alt="🦠" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f52d.png" alt="🔭" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f4da.png" alt="📚" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" />
Journal reference
Arulalan T, AchutaRao, K., & Sagar, A. D. (2023). Climate science to inform adaptation policy: Heat waves over India in the 1.5° C and 2° C warmer worlds. Climatic Change, 176(5), 64. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1007/s10584-023-03527-y">https://doi.org/10.1007/s10584-023-03527-y</a>The post <a href="https://theacademic.com/heat-waves-change-india-future-climates/">How heat waves will change in India under future climates</a> first appeared on <a href="https://theacademic.com">The Academic</a>.]]></content:encoded>
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