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Toward theory‐based volitional personality development interventions at work
No full textIn this article, we respond to four commentaries (Li et al., 2024; Hennecke & Ingold, 2025; Perossa & Connelly, 2024; Ones et al., 2024) on our article "Personality development goals at work: A new frontier in personality assessment in organizations." We start by addressing four overarching considerations from the commentaries, including (a) how to approach PDG assessment, (b) the feasibility of personality development interventions, (c) potential trade-offs involved, and (d) the value of personality development beyond established HR practices. Next, in an attempt to integrate these considerations and stimulate future research in this area, we outline three critical elements of what we believe can be the foundation of theory-based personality development interventions at work. For this purpose, we first posit that personality development at work can be rethought such that the focus shifts from "changing an employee's trait levels" to "expanding that employee's comfort zone across a range of personality states." Second, to have sustained effects, interventions need to accomplish more than simply "learning new behaviors," by effectively targeting all layers of personality-behavioral, cognitive, and emotional. Finally, we introduce optimal functioning, encompassing both performance and well-being aspects, as the ultimate criterion for evaluating the success of personality development interventions. We hope these reactions and integrative ideas will inspire future research on personality development goals assessment and personality development interventions in the work context.In this article, we respond to four commentaries (Li et al., 2024; Hennecke & Ingold, 2025; Perossa & Connelly, 2024; Ones et al., 2024) on our article "Personality development goals at work: A new frontier in personality assessment in organizations." We start by addressing four overarching considerations from the commentaries, including (a) how to approach PDG assessment, (b) the feasibility of personality development interventions, (c) potential trade-offs involved, and (d) the value of personality development beyond established HR practices. Next, in an attempt to integrate these considerations and stimulate future research in this area, we outline three critical elements of what we believe can be the foundation of theory-based personality development interventions at work. For this purpose, we first posit that personality development at work can be rethought such that the focus shifts from "changing an employee's trait levels" to "expanding that employee's comfort zone across a range of personality states." Second, to have sustained effects, interventions need to accomplish more than simply "learning new behaviors," by effectively targeting all layers of personality-behavioral, cognitive, and emotional. Finally, we introduce optimal functioning, encompassing both performance and well-being aspects, as the ultimate criterion for evaluating the success of personality development interventions. We hope these reactions and integrative ideas will inspire future research on personality development goals assessment and personality development interventions in the work context.A
Thermo-hydro-mechanical modeling of geothermal energy systems in deep mines : uncertainty quantification and design optimization
No full textGeothermal energy extraction through deep mine systems offers the potential to reduce the cost of geothermal systems while meeting the cooling needs of deep mines. However, the injection of cold water into the subsurface triggers strongly coupled thermo-hydro-mechanical (THM) processes that can affect the stability of underground excavations. This study evaluates the impact of geothermal energy extraction on the temperature and stability of a deep mine. By quantifying the sensitivity of the mine temperature and stability to various parameters, we propose a scheme to optimize geothermal energy production, while achieving rapid mine cooling and maintaining stability. We first evaluate the impact of geothermal operations on mine temperature and stability through THM numerical modeling. The simulations show that poro-elastic stress quickly affects mine stability, while thermal stress has a more significant impact on the long-term stability. We then use Distance-based Generalized Sensitivity Analysis (DGSA) to quantify parameter sensitivity. The analysis identifies the distance between the mine system and the geothermal system as the most influential factor. Other important parameters include the injection rate, injection temperature, well spacing, coefficient of thermal expansion, permeability, Young’s modulus, and heat capacity. Finally, we propose a DGSA-based optimization framework that accounts for subsurface uncertainty and validate the optimized results. Our results indicate that, with favorable geological conditions, a rational selection of system design parameters can enhance geothermal energy production while ensuring rapid mine cooling and stability. This study provides essential insights for the optimization of deep mine geothermal systems and supports effective decision-making.Geothermal energy extraction through deep mine systems offers the potential to reduce the cost of geothermal systems while meeting the cooling needs of deep mines. However, the injection of cold water into the subsurface triggers strongly coupled thermo-hydro-mechanical (THM) processes that can affect the stability of underground excavations. This study evaluates the impact of geothermal energy extraction on the temperature and stability of a deep mine. By quantifying the sensitivity of the mine temperature and stability to various parameters, we propose a scheme to optimize geothermal energy production, while achieving rapid mine cooling and maintaining stability. We first evaluate the impact of geothermal operations on mine temperature and stability through THM numerical modeling. The simulations show that poro-elastic stress quickly affects mine stability, while thermal stress has a more significant impact on the long-term stability. We then use Distance-based Generalized Sensitivity Analysis (DGSA) to quantify parameter sensitivity. The analysis identifies the distance between the mine system and the geothermal system as the most influential factor. Other important parameters include the injection rate, injection temperature, well spacing, coefficient of thermal expansion, permeability, Young’s modulus, and heat capacity. Finally, we propose a DGSA-based optimization framework that accounts for subsurface uncertainty and validate the optimized results. Our results indicate that, with favorable geological conditions, a rational selection of system design parameters can enhance geothermal energy production while ensuring rapid mine cooling and stability. This study provides essential insights for the optimization of deep mine geothermal systems and supports effective decision-making.A
Poly(2-alkyl-2-oxazoline) hydrogels as synthetic matrices for multicellular spheroid and intestinal organoid cultures
No full textThe extracellular matrix (ECM) plays a crucial role in organoid cultures by supporting cell proliferation and differentiation. A key feature of the ECM is its mechanical influence on the surrounding cells, directly affecting their behavior. Matrigel, the most commonly used ECM, is limited by its animal-derived origin, batch variability, and uncontrollable mechanical properties, restricting its use in 3D cell-model-based mechanobiological studies. Poly(2-alkyl-2-oxazoline) (PAOx) synthetic hydrogels represent an appealing alternative because of their reproducibility and versatile chemistry, enabling tuning of hydrogel stiffness and functionalization. Here, we studied PAOx hydrogels with differing compressive moduli for their potential to support 3D cell growth. PAOx hydrogels support spheroid and organoid growth over several days without the addition of ECM components. Furthermore, we discovered intestinal organoid epithelial polarity reversion in PAOx hydrogels and demonstrate how the tunable mechanical properties of PAOx can be used to study effects on the morphology and oxygenation of live multicellular spheroids.The extracellular matrix (ECM) plays a crucial role in organoid cultures by supporting cell proliferation and differentiation. A key feature of the ECM is its mechanical influence on the surrounding cells, directly affecting their behavior. Matrigel, the most commonly used ECM, is limited by its animal-derived origin, batch variability, and uncontrollable mechanical properties, restricting its use in 3D cell-model-based mechanobiological studies. Poly(2-alkyl-2-oxazoline) (PAOx) synthetic hydrogels represent an appealing alternative because of their reproducibility and versatile chemistry, enabling tuning of hydrogel stiffness and functionalization. Here, we studied PAOx hydrogels with differing compressive moduli for their potential to support 3D cell growth. PAOx hydrogels support spheroid and organoid growth over several days without the addition of ECM components. Furthermore, we discovered intestinal organoid epithelial polarity reversion in PAOx hydrogels and demonstrate how the tunable mechanical properties of PAOx can be used to study effects on the morphology and oxygenation of live multicellular spheroids.A
Novel Y-function methodology parameter estimation from weak to strong inversion operation
No full textA new Y-function methodology approach for the inversion charge over the gate capacitance ratio estimation from weak to strong inversion operation has been developed. Based on the drain current expression in the linear operation regime and classical mobility law, it is demonstrated that the inversion charge over the gate capacitance ratio may be estimated from weak to strong inversion operation without any approximation by solving a second-degree equation. This latter equation depends notably on the Y-function and on three parameters which are needed to be extracted, two in strong inversion (the gain factor GM and the second order mobility attenuation factor θ2) and one in subthreshold zone (the subthreshold swing SS). This easy-to-use Y-function approach permits accurate and physical meaning electrical parameter extraction confirmed by the very good agreement between the experimental and the model of the drain current and of the transconductance behavior of advanced transistors from weak to strong inversion operation regime.A new Y-function methodology approach for the inversion charge over the gate capacitance ratio estimation from weak to strong inversion operation has been developed. Based on the drain current expression in the linear operation regime and classical mobility law, it is demonstrated that the inversion charge over the gate capacitance ratio may be estimated from weak to strong inversion operation without any approximation by solving a second-degree equation. This latter equation depends notably on the Y-function and on three parameters which are needed to be extracted, two in strong inversion (the gain factor GM and the second order mobility attenuation factor θ2) and one in subthreshold zone (the subthreshold swing SS). This easy-to-use Y-function approach permits accurate and physical meaning electrical parameter extraction confirmed by the very good agreement between the experimental and the model of the drain current and of the transconductance behavior of advanced transistors from weak to strong inversion operation regime.A
Predictive learning as the basis of the testing effect
No full textA prominent learning phenomenon is the testing effect, meaning that testing enhances retention more than studying. Emergent frameworks propose fundamental (Hebbian and predictive) learning principles as its basis. Predictive learning posits that learning occurs based on the contrast (error) between a prediction and the feedback on that prediction (prediction error). Here, we propose that in testing (but not studying) scenarios, participants predict potential answers, and its contrast with the subsequent feedback yields a prediction error, which facilitates testing-based learning. To investigate this, we developed an associative memory network incorporating Hebbian and/or predictive learning, together with an experimental design where human participants studied or tested English-Swahili word pairs followed by recognition. Three behavioral experiments (N = 80, 81, 62) showed robust testing effects when feedback was provided. Model fitting (of 10 different models) suggested that only models incorporating predictive learning can account for the breadth of data associated with the testing effect. Our data and model suggest that predictive learning underlies the testing effect.A prominent learning phenomenon is the testing effect, meaning that testing enhances retention more than studying. Emergent frameworks propose fundamental (Hebbian and predictive) learning principles as its basis. Predictive learning posits that learning occurs based on the contrast (error) between a prediction and the feedback on that prediction (prediction error). Here, we propose that in testing (but not studying) scenarios, participants predict potential answers, and its contrast with the subsequent feedback yields a prediction error, which facilitates testing-based learning. To investigate this, we developed an associative memory network incorporating Hebbian and/or predictive learning, together with an experimental design where human participants studied or tested English-Swahili word pairs followed by recognition. Three behavioral experiments (N = 80, 81, 62) showed robust testing effects when feedback was provided. Model fitting (of 10 different models) suggested that only models incorporating predictive learning can account for the breadth of data associated with the testing effect. Our data and model suggest that predictive learning underlies the testing effect.A
Efficiency and heat transport processes of low-temperature aquifer thermal energy storage systems : new insights from global sensitivity analyses
No full textAquifer thermal energy storage (ATES) has great potential to mitigate CO2 emissions associated with the heating and cooling of buildings and offers wide applicability. Thick productive aquifer layers have been targeted first, as these are the most promising hydrogeological context for ATES. Regardless, there is currently an increasing trend to target more complex aquifers such as low-transmissivity and alluvial aquifers or fractured rock formations. There, the uncertainty of subsurface characteristics and, with that, the risk of poorly performing systems is considerably higher. Commonly applied strategies to decide upon the ATES feasibility and well design standards for optimization need to be adapted. To further promote the use of ATES in such less favorable aquifers an efficient and systematic methodology evaluating the optimal conditions, while not neglecting uncertainty, is crucial. In this context, the distance-based global sensitivity analysis (DGSA) method is proposed. The analysis focuses on one promising thick productive aquifer, first used to validate the methodology, as well as a complex shallow alluvial aquifer. Through this method, multiple random model realizations are generated by sampling each parameter from a predetermined range of uncertainty. The DGSA methodology validates that the hydraulic conductivity, the natural hydraulic gradient and the annual storage volume dominate the functioning of an ATES system in both hydrogeological settings. The method also advances the state of the art in both settings. It efficiently identifies most informative field data ahead of carrying out the field work itself. In the studied settings, Darcy flux measurements can provide a first estimate of the relative ATES efficiency. It further offers a substantiated basis to streamline models in the future. Insensitive parameters can be fixed to average values without compromising on prediction accuracy. It also demonstrates the insignificance of seasonal soil temperature fluctuations on storage in unconfined shallow aquifers and it clarifies the thermal energy exchange dynamics directly above the storage volume. Finally, it creates the opportunity to explore different storage conditions in a particular setting, allowing to propose cutoff criteria for the investment in ATES. The nuanced understanding gained with this study offers practical guidance for enhanced efficiency of feasibility studies. It proves that the DGSA methodology can significantly speed up the development of ATES in more complex hydrogeological settings;Aquifer thermal energy storage (ATES) has great potential to mitigate CO2 emissions associated with the heating and cooling of buildings and offers wide applicability. Thick productive aquifer layers have been targeted first, as these are the most promising hydrogeological context for ATES. Regardless, there is currently an increasing trend to target more complex aquifers such as low-transmissivity and alluvial aquifers or fractured rock formations. There, the uncertainty of subsurface characteristics and, with that, the risk of poorly performing systems is considerably higher. Commonly applied strategies to decide upon the ATES feasibility and well design standards for optimization need to be adapted. To further promote the use of ATES in such less favorable aquifers an efficient and systematic methodology evaluating the optimal conditions, while not neglecting uncertainty, is crucial. In this context, the distance-based global sensitivity analysis (DGSA) method is proposed. The analysis focuses on one promising thick productive aquifer, first used to validate the methodology, as well as a complex shallow alluvial aquifer. Through this method, multiple random model realizations are generated by sampling each parameter from a predetermined range of uncertainty. The DGSA methodology validates that the hydraulic conductivity, the natural hydraulic gradient and the annual storage volume dominate the functioning of an ATES system in both hydrogeological settings. The method also advances the state of the art in both settings. It efficiently identifies most informative field data ahead of carrying out the field work itself. In the studied settings, Darcy flux measurements can provide a first estimate of the relative ATES efficiency. It further offers a substantiated basis to streamline models in the future. Insensitive parameters can be fixed to average values without compromising on prediction accuracy. It also demonstrates the insignificance of seasonal soil temperature fluctuations on storage in unconfined shallow aquifers and it clarifies the thermal energy exchange dynamics directly above the storage volume. Finally, it creates the opportunity to explore different storage conditions in a particular setting, allowing to propose cutoff criteria for the investment in ATES. The nuanced understanding gained with this study offers practical guidance for enhanced efficiency of feasibility studies. It proves that the DGSA methodology can significantly speed up the development of ATES in more complex hydrogeological settings;A
Determinants of market participation among milk producers in Kyrgyzstan
No full textNumerous studies have been conducted to comprehend the economic importance of market participation for producers. However, a significant gap remains, particularly in Central Asia. This study assesses market participation drivers for Kyrgyzstan's milk producers using the Life in Kyrgyzstan dataset, encompassing a comprehensive nationwide farm-level survey. Findings reveal that household assets boost market entry and sales volume, whereas distance from markets discourages participation but can increase sales for active sellers, reflecting transportation cost strategies. The insights inform policy interventions benefiting rural small-scale milk producers in Central Asian countries that share similar cultural backgrounds.Numerous studies have been conducted to comprehend the economic importance of market participation for producers. However, a significant gap remains, particularly in Central Asia. This study assesses market participation drivers for Kyrgyzstan's milk producers using the Life in Kyrgyzstan dataset, encompassing a comprehensive nationwide farm-level survey. Findings reveal that household assets boost market entry and sales volume, whereas distance from markets discourages participation but can increase sales for active sellers, reflecting transportation cost strategies. The insights inform policy interventions benefiting rural small-scale milk producers in Central Asian countries that share similar cultural backgrounds.A
The cytotoxicity of the haptophyte Chrysochromulina leadbeateri towards the Atlantic salmon gill cell line ASG-10
No full textFish-killing harmful algal blooms (HABs) threaten fisheries and aquaculture globally. In May and June 2019, the haptophyte Chrysochromulina leadbeateri formed the most devastating fish-killing algal bloom ever recorded in Northern Norway. Despite the severe impact of HABs on farmed fish, our understanding of their toxic mechanisms is limited. Here, we investigated the ichthyotoxicity of C. leadbeateri by using the gill epithelial cell line ASG-10 from Atlantic salmon. Extracts of C. leadbeateri showed potent hemolytic activity towards Atlantic salmon red blood cells, and toxicity to the ASG-10 cells with an EC50 of 3.41 x 106 algal cells mL- 1 measured by the Alamar Blue viability assay. Furthermore, lower extract concentrations increased caspase-3/7 activity, suggesting induction of apoptosis, while higher concentrations of the extract showed compromised cell membrane integrity. No intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) induction was observed. Exposure to C. leadbeateri extracts cultured under different irradiances or with putrescine supplementation to the algal medium did not increase the toxicity. Exposure of living C. leadbeateri cells to ASG-10 did not show any cytotoxicity from imaging or barrier integrity impairment, but the activity of leaked dead-cell proteases revealed a concentration- dependent effect on the ASG-10 cells. Furthermore, incubation of C. leadbeateri in culture with putrescine for 72 h resulted in increased dead-cell proteases leaked from the ASG-10 cells compared to cultures without putrescine. Our findings suggest that living C. leadbeateri cells exert sublethal effects on Atlantic salmon gill cells. Additionally, putrescine seems to increase the ichthyotoxicity of living C. leadbeateri towards ASG-10 cells.Fish-killing harmful algal blooms (HABs) threaten fisheries and aquaculture globally. In May and June 2019, the haptophyte Chrysochromulina leadbeateri formed the most devastating fish-killing algal bloom ever recorded in Northern Norway. Despite the severe impact of HABs on farmed fish, our understanding of their toxic mechanisms is limited. Here, we investigated the ichthyotoxicity of C. leadbeateri by using the gill epithelial cell line ASG-10 from Atlantic salmon. Extracts of C. leadbeateri showed potent hemolytic activity towards Atlantic salmon red blood cells, and toxicity to the ASG-10 cells with an EC50 of 3.41 x 106 algal cells mL- 1 measured by the Alamar Blue viability assay. Furthermore, lower extract concentrations increased caspase-3/7 activity, suggesting induction of apoptosis, while higher concentrations of the extract showed compromised cell membrane integrity. No intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) induction was observed. Exposure to C. leadbeateri extracts cultured under different irradiances or with putrescine supplementation to the algal medium did not increase the toxicity. Exposure of living C. leadbeateri cells to ASG-10 did not show any cytotoxicity from imaging or barrier integrity impairment, but the activity of leaked dead-cell proteases revealed a concentration- dependent effect on the ASG-10 cells. Furthermore, incubation of C. leadbeateri in culture with putrescine for 72 h resulted in increased dead-cell proteases leaked from the ASG-10 cells compared to cultures without putrescine. Our findings suggest that living C. leadbeateri cells exert sublethal effects on Atlantic salmon gill cells. Additionally, putrescine seems to increase the ichthyotoxicity of living C. leadbeateri towards ASG-10 cells.A
Indigenous resurgence in the Cape : the intellectual roots and political aspirations of Khoisan revivalism
No full textThe Khoisan were decimated, dispossessed, and assimilated into the mixed-race group 'coloured' during colonialism and apartheid, spawning the myth of their extinction. However, Cape Town, where colonial history is most deeply entrenched, became the focal point of 'Khoisan revivalism' after the dismantling of apartheid. The origins and aims of the movement remain poorly understood, largely because of a lack of scholarly engagement with Khoisan revivalists. This article draws on governmental documents, media items, and interviews with key Khoisan revivalists and traces shifts in activist discourse, different ways of engaging the state, and significant academic, legal, and political developments. It presents a three-phased historical overview of the intellectual roots and political aspirations of Khoisan revivalism: from the 1970s, the criticism of coloured identity and writing of Khoisan revisionist historiography; in the 1990s, the identification by a group of coloured intellectuals as indigenous people and their demand for recognition by the state; and since 2012, the initiation of direct-action campaigns by a new cohort of activist, coinciding with legislative developments regarding land and traditional leadership. A new phase is arguably emerging since 2019 as Khoisan revivalists challenge and circumvent the state through party politics, land occupations, and private sector partnerships.The Khoisan were decimated, dispossessed, and assimilated into the mixed-race group 'coloured' during colonialism and apartheid, spawning the myth of their extinction. However, Cape Town, where colonial history is most deeply entrenched, became the focal point of 'Khoisan revivalism' after the dismantling of apartheid. The origins and aims of the movement remain poorly understood, largely because of a lack of scholarly engagement with Khoisan revivalists. This article draws on governmental documents, media items, and interviews with key Khoisan revivalists and traces shifts in activist discourse, different ways of engaging the state, and significant academic, legal, and political developments. It presents a three-phased historical overview of the intellectual roots and political aspirations of Khoisan revivalism: from the 1970s, the criticism of coloured identity and writing of Khoisan revisionist historiography; in the 1990s, the identification by a group of coloured intellectuals as indigenous people and their demand for recognition by the state; and since 2012, the initiation of direct-action campaigns by a new cohort of activist, coinciding with legislative developments regarding land and traditional leadership. A new phase is arguably emerging since 2019 as Khoisan revivalists challenge and circumvent the state through party politics, land occupations, and private sector partnerships.A