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Share an idea: AI-augmented urban narrative
No full textMany lessons were learnt from Christchurch City Council's attempt to empower local citizens to co-design the redevelopment of the city centre following the devastating events of a series of major earthquakes between 2011 and 2012. Running against the grain of national politics, the grassroots public consultation exercise was largely over-ridden by the central government's decision to hand over final responsibility for rebuilding of the city to the Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Authority (CERA). Predictably, the centrally administered bureaucratic process attracted considerable criticism with studies indicating that CERA was ill-equipped and unwilling to engage effectively with the public, which resulted in predictably poor public perceptions. The outcome pointed towards the need for greater clarity about the willingness or otherwise of public agencies or government to share decision making before public engagement to avoid disappointment and disillusionment. Without which, the perception of power-sharing becomes an illusion that can quickly turn into public dissatisfaction with public authorities. Furthermore, the problem arose in part due to a focus on solutions rather than prioritising user needs underpinned by shared culture values. To overcome future political impasses between local and national government agencies, an alternative method of collecting and analysing data from public consultation is proposed using AI where large volumes of public data can be readily processed to communicate shared narratives about shared values for future public works such as the rebuild of Christchurch
ESIMS targeted synthesis of novel {Pt2S2} derivatives
No full textElectrospray ionisation mass spectrometry (ESIMS) was used to investigate ring-
opening reactions of several epoxides with the nucleophilic dinuclear PtII
complexes
[Pt2(μ-E)2(PPh3)4] (E = S, 1a; Se, 1b) and several activated cyclopropanes, N -
tosylaziridine, and thiirane with 1a. Epoxides cyclohexene oxide, styrene oxide,
epibromohydrin, and 2,2-dimethyloxirane were found to undergo ring-opening when
reacted with 1a and derivatives [Pt2(μ-S)(μ-S C6H10OH)(PPh3)4]BPh4 (5[BPh4],
[Pt2(μ-S)(μ-S C8H8OH)(PPh3)4]BETI (6[BETI]), [Pt2(μ-S CH2CH(OH)CH2 μ-S)-
(PPh3)4][PF6]2 (3[PF6]2), and [Pt2(μ-S)(μ-S CH2C(Me)2OH)(PPh3)4]BPh4 (7 [BPh4])
were respectively isolated and structurally characterised with 31P{1H} and 195Pt nu-
clear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, and for 5, 3 and 7 single crystal X-
ray diffraction (XRD) studies. 6 was found to be a mixture of isomers, and crystals
suitable for a single crystal XRD experiment were not obtained. Both styrene oxide
and epibromohydrin underwent ring-opening when reacted with 1b and the respec-
tive derivatives [Pt2(μ-Se)(μ-Se C8H8OH)(PPh3)4]+ and [Pt2(μ-Se CH2CH(OH)-
CH2 μ-Se)(PPh3)4]2+ were characterised by ESIMS. The fully substituted epoxide
2,3-dimethyl-2,3-epoxybutane did not undergo ring-opening when treated with 1a
in refluxing methanol for several hours. 5,6-Epoxy-5,6-dihydro-[1,10]-phenanthro-
line resulted in ring-opening when reacted with 1a however the resulting deriva-
tive [Pt2(μ-S)(μ-S C12H8N2O)(PPh3)4]+ (8) was found to decompose readily in
solution. Cyclopropanes cyclopropyl methyl ketone and trans-1,2-dibenzoylcyclo-
propane did not undergo ring-opening when reacted with 1a. The more activated
2,2,3,3-tetracyanocyclopropane and diethylcyclopropane-1,2-dicarboxylate both re-
i
sulted in ring-opening when reacted with 1a resulting in the isolation of deriva-
tives [Pt2(μ-S)(μ-S C(CN)2)(PPh3)4] (12) and [Pt2(μ-S)(μ-S C2H4CH(CO2Et)2)-
(PPh3)4]BETI (11[BETI]) respectively which were structurally characterised by het-
eronuclear NMR spectroscopy (12 31P{1H}, 195Pt{1H}; 11 1H, 31P{1H}) and single
crystal XRD studies. 12 was found to have a carbanionic center and is proposed
to result from an intramolecular rearrangement of the initially formed [Pt2(μ-S)(μ-
S C(CN)2C(CN)2CH3)(PPh3)4]+ (31). Bromomethylcyclopropane did not result
in ring-opening when reacted with 1a, however alkylation resulted in [Pt2(μ-S)(μ-
S CH2C3H5)(PPh3)4]+ (10) which was isolated as 10[BPh4] and structurally char-
acterised by 31P{1H}-NMR spectroscopy and single crystal XRD. 10[BPh4] did not
undergo ring-opening when refluxed in methanol. N -tosylaziridine resulted in the
ring-opened derivative [Pt2(μ-S)(μ-S C2H4NHtosyl)(PPh3)4]+ (13) when reacted
with 1a and was isolated as 13[PF6] and structurally characterised by 31P{1H}-NMR
spectroscopy and single crystal XRD. Thiirane appeared to rapidly undergo ring-
opening when reacted with 1a however only polymeric decomposition species were
detected by ESIMS. The previously reported reaction of 1a and 2-chloro-N -methyl-
pyridinium iodide (14[I]) was reexamined. Salts of 14 sans iodide were synthesized
using alkylating agents trimethyloxonium tetrafluoroborate or dimethyl sulfate giv-
ing 14[BF4] or 14[CH3SO4] respectively. The reaction of 1a and 14 was found to
result in the dicationic complex [Pt2(μ-S)(μ-S C6H7N)(PPh3)4]2+ (2) which was
isolated as the bis-hexafluorophosphate salt 2[PF6]2 and structurally characterised
with 31P{1H}-NMR spectroscopy, 195Pt{1H}-NMR spectroscopy, and single crystal
XRD. The 2-mercapto-N -methylpyridinium ligand in 2 was proposed to be an ex-
cellent leaving group and the reaction of 2 with excess bromide resulted in the isola-
tion of the mixed-bridged complex [Pt2(μ-S)(μ-Br)(PPh3)4]BPh4 (16[BPh4]) which
was structurally characterised with 31P{1H}-NMR spectroscopy and single crystal
XRD. The thiols N -acetylcysteamine, 2-mercapto-1-methylimidazole, and 2-amino-
thiophenol were reacted with 2 to give [Pt2(μ-S)(μ-S C2H4NHC( O)CH3)(PPh3)4]+
(38), [Pt2(μ-S)(μNS-S C3H2N2CH3)(PPh3)4]+ (17), and [Pt2(μ-S)(μ-S C6H4NH2)-
ii
(PPh3)4]+ (39) respectively which were isolated as 38[BF4], 17[BETI], and 39[BF4].
17[BETI] was structurally characterised (31P{1H}-NMR spectroscopy, 195Pt{1H}-
NMR spectroscopy, single crystal XRD) and found to contain a novel 6-membered
Pt-S-Pt-S-C-N heterocycle. 38 was characterised using NMR spectroscopy (1H, 13C,
31P{1H}, and 195Pt{1H}). 39 was characterised using 31P{1H}-NMR spectroscopy.
2 was reacted with selenourea resulting in the detection by ESIMS of the mixed-
bridged [Pt2(μ-S)(μ-Se)(PPh3)4]+ (23) which decomposed over the course of several
days to 1a and 1b. When the diaryldichalcogenides Ph2Se2, Ph2Te2, di-4-ethoxy-
phenyl-ditelluride were reduced with hydrazine to the corresponding chalcogeno-
late anion and reacted with 2, substitution of the 2-mercapto-N -methylpyridinium
zwitterion resulted and mixed-bridged derivatives [Pt2(μ-S)(μ-E R)(PPh3)4]+ (E-
R = Se-Ph, 18; Te-Ph, 47; Te-C6H4-OEt, 19) detected by ESIMS. 18[BF4] and
19[BF4] were isolated and structurally characterised with heteronuclear NMR spec-
troscopy (31P{1H}-NMR, 195Pt{1H}-NMR) and single crystal XRD. A bridging hy-
drazine species was observed when reacting 2 with hydrazine reduced diaryldichalco-
genides, and the reaction between 2 and hydrazine was found to result in [Pt2-
(μ-S)(μ-NH NH2)(PPh3)4]+ (21) which was isolated as 21[BPh4] and structurally
characterised with 31P{1H} and 195Pt{1H}-NMR spectroscop
Technology and consumer well-being
No full textThis chapter reviews consumers’ interactions with technology and its influence on their well-being and especially psychological well-being. Focus areas discussed in the chapter include smartphones, games, social media, health information technology, artificial intelligence, augmented reality, and virtual reality. Some of the specific technologies considered include chatbots, service robots, the use of virtual and augmented reality in the consumer realm, continuous engagement with digital and mobile technologies, mobile health technologies, and activity-promoting gaming. For the most part, the research shows that technology is not generally detrimental to well-being. Rather, the way technology is used tends to predict whether there are benefits or risks to well-being. The chapter also discusses some extra dangers for the less-tech-savvy and policy recommendations for minimizing and mitigating the risks technology poses without unnecessarily limiting the potentially life-changing benefits. It is recommended that children are educated about the difference between beneficial and problematic smartphone use, that schools should decide when or whether smartphones can be used in classrooms, that cryptocurrencies should be regulated to protect the environment and consumers, and that industry standards are adopted to protect consumers of artificially intelligent friends
Improving cervical screening rates among sexual minorities: Insights from Aotearoa New Zealand
No full textIssue Addressed: Sexual minority women (SMW) experience inequities in health outcomes. The extant literature consistently suggests that SMW are much less likely than their heterosexual peers to engage in cervical screening. Using participant's voices, the focus of this study was to explore the ways in which cervical screening rates for SMW might be improved. Methods: An online survey was completed by SMW (N = 177) aged 25–69 based in Aotearoa New Zealand and representing a range of sexual identities, ethnicities, and geographical regions. The analysis presented here was derived from open-ended qualitative responses to a single survey item: What do you think could be done to encourage more SMW (lesbians, wahine takatāpui, bisexual women, etc.) to engage in smear testing?. Results: Analysis of the data generated three main themes around how public health services could encourage more SMW to engage in cervical screening: Inclusive health services, clarity of information, and targeted health promotion. Conclusion: The analysis showed that the inherent heteronormativity among health care professionals and the lack of clear and consistent information specific to SMW may be key factors contributing to lower rates of engagement in screening. So What?: Given that not engaging in screening is the main risk factor for cervical cancer, it is imperative that active consideration is given to these issues with a view to increasing participation rates among SMW
The role of colour when perceiving goalkeeper size
No full textThis research examines the effect of the color of a goalkeeper's uniform on perceived size and performance in sports. The main purpose was to determine the impact of particular colors, namely red, yellow, blue, green, and black on the psychological attitudes of goalkeepers during competition. The quantitative approach was used in the study since the participants were asked to guess the size of goalkeepers wearing uniforms of various colors. The results revealed a significant main effect of uniform color on perceived size, with male goalkeepers in red and yellow uniforms estimated to be larger than those in blue (p = 0.008) and green (p = 0.061). In a follow-up experiment, it was found that male goalkeepers were perceived to be 16.8% larger than their actual size (F(1, 85) = 263.748, p < 0.001), while female goalkeepers were perceived as 6.3% larger (mean difference of 10.480, SE = 0.645, p < 0.001). The results show that there is a significant gender stereotype, where male goalkeepers are perceived as larger than female goalkeepers irrespective of the color of the uniform they wear. These results indicate that uniform color can be used as a psychological weapon in sports and that the opponents may be conditioned by the color of the uniforms worn by the athletes. The findings of the study have relevance to the management of sports teams and the design of kits where the use of appropriate colors may be a nonverbal communication edge. However, the generalization of the results as well as the reliability of the results may be limited due to the small number and young age of the participants, restricted color options during the design of the uniform, and other features that may limit the applicability of the research in different sports and cultures
"Takahi ngā takahanga o ngā tūpuna" - Tramp the pathways of our ancestors
No full textThe rise of reconnecting to holistic approaches to health to improve wellbeing outcomes for Māori has become increasingly prominent in recent years. Such developments have highlighted the need to introduce traditional Māori concepts, values and practices within whānau, hapū and iwi as vehicles for promoting and improving Māori health. This research had two objectives. Firstly, it aimed to explore the process of reclaiming mātauranga Māori (Māori knowledge systems) with my whānau who had limited access to te ao Māori (the Māori world). The second objective sought to explore the experiences of my whānau reconnecting with te reo me ōna tikanga (Māori language and culture). Using the Whiti Te Rā as a guide informed the design and structure of the wānanga (workshops). The Whiti Te Rā is a therapeutic model designed to improve health and wellbeing outcomes for Māori by developing and enhancing a cultural identity. Central to this model are six Māori customary practices and values that provide pathways to wellbeing and flourishing mauri. These dimensions also have synergies with other models of health – Te Whare Tapa Whā, Te Wheke. Four tāne (men) from my whānau took part in this research. We used the Pūrākau Method to record, explore, and analyse the narratives that emerged following each wānanga. The key findings from this research included connection to history, whakapapa and wairua; connection to pepeha and cultural practices; connection to self as a Māori; connection through whanaungatanga; and connection to taiao (the environment). This study showed that Māori models of health and wellbeing are consistent in demonstrating their effectiveness in connecting Māori to their language and culture. Despite the impact of colonisation, reconnection to customary practices and values was meaningful and valuable to my whānau. Future research is needed to revitalise, regenerate and reclaim a thriving Māori identity
Computational thinking for young indigenous learners in New Zealand
No full textThis article presents the findings from a study aimed to investigate how the computational thinking aspect of digital technologies can be embedded authentically into students’ technological practice. The project explored teaching and learning computational thinking in context and particularly focus on technological needs and practice for young Māori learners.
There is recognition internationally about the need for digital technologies within the curriculum. Computational thinking is a critical component of this and is defined as an approach to problem-solving, designing computer systems, and understanding related human behaviours, while drawing on fundamental ideas of computing. Therefore, it is critical that all students acquire computational thinking skills. Technology practice is most successful when embedded within authentic contexts, thus this paper presents a study that facilitated the learning of two concepts of computational thinking: sequencing and orientation within culturally embedded technology practice. The study’s vision is to assist mainstream Māori learners from low socio-economic backgrounds to develop an understanding of related concepts of computational thinking. The research design drew on Māori values and practice that situates learning within authentic Māori contexts. Kaupapa Māori pedagogies were used in our design-based intervention programme to achieve the research goal. The focus of the project was to improve digital technologies learning outcomes to ensure Māori tamariki (children) see themselves as comfortably situated in a digital world
Prevalence and risk factors for musculoskeletal pain when running during pregnancy: A survey of 3102 women
No full textBackground: Musculoskeletal pain while running is a concern to women during pregnancy and can lead to running cessation. To support women who wish to run during pregnancy, it is essential to understand the sites, severities and personal risk factors associated with musculoskeletal pain. Objective: The aim was to investigate prevalence and risk factors for musculoskeletal pain when running during pregnancy. Methods: An online survey was completed by women who had a child in the past 5 years and ran prior to and during pregnancy. Pain frequency informed prevalence rates by body site, and logistic regression odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals were calculated. Results: A total of 3102 women of 23 ethnicities from 25 countries completed the survey. Women were 22–52 years old when they gave birth and ran 2–129 km/week during the 0.5–35 years before the birth of their youngest child. Women ran significantly less distance and less often during pregnancy than before pregnancy. Most women (86%) experienced pain while running during pregnancy (59% pelvis/sacroiliac joint, 52% lower back, 51% abdomen, 44% breast, 40% hip). The highest prevalence of severe-to-worst pain was at the pelvis/sacroiliac joint (9%). Women at greatest risk of pain while running during pregnancy had a previous injury (OR = 3.44) or were older (OR = 1.04). Women with a previous child were less likely to experience breast pain (OR = 0.76) than those running during their first pregnancy. Conclusion: Healthcare practices to reduce pain should focus on regions of greatest musculoskeletal change during pregnancy, specifically the pelvis, lower back and abdomen. Efforts to support women to run for longer throughout pregnancy should focus on pain at the pelvis and breasts
3D-printed robotic gripper fingers with lattice structures for kiwifruit harvesting
No full textWith the growing demand for agricultural automation due to labour shortages and rising costs,
the robotics industry must develop effective and sustainable solutions. Soft robotics has
emerged as a transformative approach, offering flexibility and safety for handling delicate
objects. Advancements in 3D printing technology further enable innovative gripper designs
tailored for specific applications. This research focuses on developing 3D-printed soft robotic
gripper fingers for kiwifruit harvesting, aiming to overcome challenges such as fruit damage,
slippage, and inefficiencies in automated processes.
The study investigates enhancing the coefficient of friction through textured surfaces and
optimising bulk stiffness using lattice structures with varying wall thicknesses to maximise
contact area and grip stability. Using 3D printing, multiple testing samples were designed with
various textured surfaces and advanced lattice configurations, including gyroid, honeycomb,
and Schwarz primitive structures, to improve grasping performance while optimising stiffness.
Experimental results revealed that textured surfaces increased the coefficient of friction by 8–
10%, while gyroid infill patterns nearly doubled the contact surface area compared to rigid
designs, significantly improving grip stability and reducing pressure on the fruit. Rubber was
identified as the most effective material for soft gripper fingers, offering a high coefficient of
friction, flexibility, and the ability to conform to the irregular shapes of kiwifruit. Conversely,
silicone and nylon were less effective, with silicone providing inadequate friction and nylon
exhibiting rigidity that risked fruit damage. Among the tested lattice structures, gyroid patterns
demonstrated superior mechanical properties, outperforming other designs that exhibited
failure modes, such as buckling under compressive loads.
Overall, this research highlights the potential of 3D-printed soft robotic gripper fingers in
horticultural automation by integrating advanced materials, textures, and lattice structures to
improve performance. The findings provide critical insights into design principles for
developing durable, adaptable, and effective grippers for delicate agricultural applications.
While the results are promising, further research is required to address challenges such as
scalability, extensive field testing, and seamless integration with automated harvesting
systems
O wie ist die Barmherzigkeit
No full textThis is a 21st century performance edition of a sacred cantata written by Stölzel in 1738 for the 3rd Sunday after Trinity