bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Taperedpost‐wallslotline antenna loaded with dielectric lens forshort‐pulseapplications
Authors: Yin Yifan , Yang Mei , Zhuang Ying , Li Shunli
Published: November 2021

An exponential tapered post‐wall slotline antenna loaded with dielectric lens is proposed and demonstrated. The theoretical profile of the loaded dielectric lens is derived, and its physical explanation is presented. Besides, the proposed post‐wall structure in the antenna ensures low available characteristic impedance as well as low cross‐polarization levels of the antenna. The proposed antenna exhibits an 18.12 GHz impedance bandwidth between 1.88 and 20 GHz and a peak gain of 10.9 dBi. The measured E‐plane and H‐plane cross‐polarization level is −37.0 and − 26.0 dB in boresight direction, respectively. Compared to the antenna without dielectric lens, the average gain of the proposed antenna increases by 3 dB from 14 to 20 GHz, and the pulse peak‐peak gain increases by 1.59 dB, and the tailing signal levels is about 0.35 dB lower.
Valvular regurgitation flow jet assessment using in vitro 4D flow MRI: Implication for mitral regurgitation
Authors: Lee Jeesoo , Gupta Aakash N. , Ma Liliana E. , Scott Michel B. , Mason O’Neil R. , Wu Erik , Thomas James D. , Markl Michael
Published: November 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of four‐dimensional (4D) flow MRI for direct assessment of peak velocity, flow volume, and momentum of a mitral regurgitation (MR) flow jets using an in vitro pulsatile jet flow phantom. We systematically investigated the impact of spatial resolution and quantification location along the jet on flow quantities with Doppler ultrasound as a reference for peak velocity.

Methods

Four‐dimensional flow MRI data of a pulsatile jet through a circular, elliptical, and 3D‐printed patient‐specific MR orifice model was acquired with varying spatial resolution (1.5–5 mm isotropic voxel). Flow rate and momentum of the jet were quantified at various axial distances (x = 0–50 mm) and integrated over time to calculate Voljet and MTIjet. In vivo assessment of Voljet and MTIjet was performed on 3 MR patients.

Results

Peak velocities were comparable to Doppler ultrasound (3% error, 1.5 mm voxel), but underestimated with decreasing spatial resolution (−40% error, 5 mm voxel). Voljet was similar to regurgitant volume (RVol) within 5 mm, and then increased linearly with the axial distance (19%/cm) because of flow entrainment. MTIjet remained steady throughout the jet (2%/cm) as theoretically predicted. Four and 9 voxels across the jet were required to measure flow volume and momentum‐time‐integral within 10% error, respectively.

Conclusion

Four‐dimensional flow MRI detected accurate peak velocity, flow rate, and momentum for in vitro MR‐mimicking flow jets. Spatial resolution significantly impacted flow quantitation, which otherwise followed predictions of flow entrainment and momentum conservation. This study provides important preliminary information for accurate in vivo MR assessment using 4D flow MRI.
Prevalence and influencing factors of anxiety and depression symptoms among surgical nurses during COVID‐19 pandemic: A large‐scale cross‐sectional study
Authors: Ren Chunxia , Zhou Decun , Fan Yinguang , Li Baozhu , Zhang Wanfei , Shen Yun , Yu Shihui , Jiang Li , Yu Fengqiong , Duan Yongli , Peng Deqing , Cheng Xuehong , Wu Le , Wu Changhao , Ye Dongqing
Published: November 2021

Aim

To evaluate the prevalence and influencing factors of anxiety and depression symptoms in surgical nurses during the COVID‐19 epidemic in Anhui, China.

Methods

A cross‐sectional, multic'entre quantitative study was conducted among surgical nurses in Anhui province. SAS, SDS and SSRS scales were used for the investigation. Data were collected between 3 March 2020 to 19 March 2020.

Results

A total of 3,492 surgical nurses completed the survey. The average level of anxiety and depression of surgical nurses were higher than that of the Chinese norm. Levels of social support for surgical nurses were significantly negatively associated with the degree of anxiety and depression. Fertility status, participation in care for COVID‐19 patients, likelihood of being infected with COVID‐19 and social support were significantly influencing surgical nurses’ anxiety degree. Similarly, these characteristics were significantly associated with the odds of depression symptoms in surgical nurses.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that targeted psychological interventions to promote mental health of surgical nurses need to be immediately implemented.
Imaging subsurface geological complexity (2D/3D) beneath the Greater Srinagar region of the Kashmir basin, Northwest Himalaya
Authors: Gupta S. Vishal , Parvez Imtiyaz A. , Khan Prosanta K.
Published: November 2021

A high‐resolution microtremor measurement in Greater Srinagar city of the Kashmir valley has been analysed to image 2D and 3D subsurface geological complexities. This region is located in the highly seismogenic Himalayan belt and sits atop a deep sedimentary lake bed with a laterally varying thickness of soft sediments. Srinagar region is a major economic centre and the capital city of the Kashmir valley with 2 million inhabitants living at high seismic risk. To assess the subsurface complexity beneath the city, we present: (1) high‐resolution subsurface shear wave velocity Vs structure using the horizontal‐to‐vertical spectral ratio inversion; (2) shear wave velocity for top 30 metres of soil column (VS30) map with National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program site classification; (3) comparison of VS30 maps calculated from horizontal‐to‐vertical spectral ratio inversion and topographic slope methods; and (4) azimuthal behaviour of horizontal‐to‐vertical spectral ratio peaks, all of which unravel the subsurface spatial heterogeneity and suitability for the building of engineering structures in the study area. In addition, a new matlab code is applied to generate 3D subsurface Vs slices in the study region in different directions using its pre‐generated 2D Vs profile data. The presented potentiality of microtremor horizontal‐to‐vertical spectral ratio technique in Srinagar region, which lies on the eastern edge of the basin with significant topographic irregularities, indicates an uneven distribution of local site effects (primary and secondary) in the case of strong ground motion. The comprehensive results can be promising in engineering analyses of local ground and structural responses in order to mitigate the impact of earthquake occurrence and seismic risk in the city and adjoining regions.
Self‐assembly of block copolymers for biological applications
Authors: Li Zili , Lin Zhiqun
Published: November 2021

Self‐assembly of block copolymers (BCPs) has garnered much attention over the past several decades owing to an array of intriguing properties. In this perspective, recent advances in self‐assembly and applications of BCPs with different architectures are presented. First, the self‐assembly mechanism of BCPs and the general criteria to evaluate the assembled morphologies are introduced. Subsequently, the self‐assembly of linear, star‐like and bottlebrush‐like BCPs is discussed. In particular, polymerization‐induced self‐assembly for large‐scale preparation is highlighted. Afterwards, a rich diversity of applications of self‐assembled BCPs in drug delivery, bioimaging, molecular recognition and photothermal therapy are outlined. Finally, an outlook on larger‐scale production and implementation of self‐assembled BCPs for biological applications is noted. © 2021 Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Pathological narcissism: An analysis of interpersonal dysfunction within intimate relationships
Authors: Day Nicholas J. S. , Townsend Michelle L. , Grenyer Brin F. S.
Published: November 2021

Pathological narcissism is marked by deficits in psychosocial functioning. Difficulties in relationships include instances of aggression, devaluation and control; however, few studies have examined these relationships from the perspective of partners and family members. We studied participants who were in relationships with relatives high in narcissistic traits (N = 436; current romantic partners [57.3%]; former romantic partners [21.1%]; family members [15.4%]). Participant responses were analysed thematically, and their underlying mental health problems were also measured. Thematic analysis of participant responses indicated themes of abuse from the relative with narcissism (physical, verbal, emotional and sexual) as well as the relative imposing challenging financial and sexual behaviours. There were complex interpersonal themes of mutual idealization but also devaluation. In response, participants reported high levels of anxiety, depression, self‐aggression, sickness and somatic concerns. Further, participants expressed overt outward hostility towards their relative with narcissism, but also dependency strivings and frustrated dependency themes. Partners and their relative with narcissism appeared locked into interpersonal and intrapersonal dynamic conflicts. Clinical implications include specific attendance to alliance issues, dependency themes, and a focus on limit setting to establish personal safety.
Physiologically‐based pharmacokinetic modeling to predict CYP3A4‐mediated drug‐drug interactions of finerenone
Authors: Wendl Thomas , Frechen Sebastian , Gerisch Michael , Heinig Roland , Eissing Thomas
Published: November 2021

Finerenone is a nonsteroidal, selective mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist that recently demonstrated its efficacy to delay chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression and reduce cardiovascular events in patients with CKD and type 2 diabetes. Here, we report the development of a physiologically‐based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model for finerenone and its application as a victim drug of cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4)‐mediated drug‐drug interactions (DDIs) using the open‐source PBPK platform PK‐Sim, which has recently been qualified for this application purpose. First, the PBPK model for finerenone was developed using physicochemical, in vitro, and clinical (including mass balance) data. Subsequently, the finerenone model was validated regarding the contribution of CYP3A4 metabolism to total clearance by comparing to observed data from dedicated clinical interaction studies with erythromycin (simulated geometric mean ratios of the area under the plasma concentration‐time curve [AUCR] of 3.46 and geometric mean peak plasma concentration ratios [CmaxRs] of 2.00 vs. observed of 3.48 and 1.88, respectively) and verapamil (simulated AUCR of 2.91 and CmaxR of 1.86 vs. observed of 2.70 and 2.22, respectively). Finally, the finerenone model was applied to predict clinically untested DDI studies with various CYP3A4 modulators. An AUCR of 6.31 and a CmaxR of 2.37 was predicted with itraconazole, of 5.28 and 2.25 with clarithromycin, 1.59 and 1.40 with cimetidine, 1.57 and 1.38 with fluvoxamine, 0.19 and 0.32 with efavirenz, and 0.07 and 0.14 with rifampicin. This PBPK analysis provides a quantitative basis to guide the label and clinical use of finerenone with concomitant CYP3A4 modulators.
Understanding Bond Relaxation and Electronic Properties of T‐Type WTe2/MoS2 Heterostructure using Binding Energy and Bond Charge Models
Authors: Qiu Hongrong , Li Hanze , Wang Jiannan , Zhu Yunhu , Bo Maolin
Published: November 2021

Binding energy and bond charge models and the topological concept to obtain the nonbonding, bonding, and antibonding states of the T‐type WTe2/MoS2 heterostructure are combined. It is found that the electronic probability and electronic dispersion in the valence band of the WTe2/MoS2 heterostructure can be precisely determined based on electronic entropy. The energy‐band projection method and electronic entropy are remarkable approaches for analyzing the electronic properties of various structures based on density functional theory calculations. Hence, a new method is provided to describe the electronic properties of T‐type heterostructures, and the electron and bonding state probabilities are calculated.
CD8αα+T Cells Exert a Pro-Inflammatory Role in Patients with Psoriasis
Authors: Zhang Y. Y. , Lin Y. T. , Wang L. , Sun X. W. , Dang E. L. , Xue K. , Zhang W. G. , Zhang K. M. , Wang G. , Li B.
Published: November 2021

Background

Psoriasis is a common chronic inflammatory disease caused by excessive activation of CD4+T cells, including Th17, Th1 and Th22. The role of CD8+T cells in psoriasis pathogenesis remains poorly understood.

Aim

To identify the phenotype of CD8+T cells in patients with psoriasis and to investigate its role in the formation of lesions.

Methods

The phenotype of CD8+T cells in psoriatic lesions was detected by immunofluorescence staining. Flow cytometry was performed to detect their phenotype in peripheral blood. Thereafter, coculture of CD8αα+T cells with autogenous CD4+T cells was performed to investigate the function of CD8αα+T cells in patients with psoriasis. Finally, pro-inflammatory factors produced by CD8αα+T cells were examined by immunofluorescence staining and flow cytometry.

Results

Compared to the CD8αβ+T cells, CD8αα+T cell infiltration in psoriatic lesions markedly increased. Moreover, epidermal CD8αα+T cells exhibited tissue-resident memory T cells (TRM) phenotypes and dermal CD8αα+T cells exhibited effector memory (TEM) phenotypes in psoriatic lesions. Additionally, we found that CD8αα+T cells from patients with psoriasis did not express the markers of regulatory T cells and could promote the proliferation of CD4+T effector cells and produce interleukin-17 and interferon-γ.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate that CD8αα+T cells contribute to the pathogenesis of psoriasis by producing pro-inflammatory factors.
Clinical Characteristics and Management of Acute Generalized Exanthematous Pustulosis with Haemodynamic Instability
Authors: O’Brian M. , Carr C. L. , Thomas C. , Dominguez A. R. , Mauskar M.
Published: November 2021

Background

Acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP) is a severe pustular drug eruption with rare reports of haemodynamic instability.

Objective

To describe the clinical characteristics, management, and outcomes of patients with AGEP-associated haemodynamic instability.

Methods

This retrospective case series identified adult patients diagnosed with AGEP who had haemodynamic instability from November 2012 to February 2020 that were seen at two academic teaching hospitals with roles as a burn centre and tertiary referral centre at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, TX USA. Patients with a discharge diagnosis of AGEP that had haemodynamic instability during their eruption were included. Patients with a history of psoriasis, presentations thought to be a flare of generalized pustular psoriasis, or concurrent infection during eruption were excluded. AGEP with haemodynamic instability was characterized by degree of hypotension, dermatologic phenotype at time of dermatologic consultation, and management approach.

Results

This study included 19 patients with AGEP-associated haemodynamic instability (mean age, 52 years; age range, 29–76 years; 11 (58%) female). Patients were classified on a spectrum of haemodynamic instability; three had sustained hypotension, 10 had hypotension with organ dysfunction, and six had shock. Patients with AGEP-associated haemodynamic instability had a range of dermatologic phenotypes at initial consultation: subtle exanthematous eruption with minimal pustules, typical eruption with pustules and flexural predominance, and severe eruption with features of Stevens–Johnson syndrome. Both topical and systemic corticosteroids were used for treatment of several patients. Of the patients that required vasopressors and received systemic steroids, the majority were off vasopressors within 24 h of steroid initiation.

Conclusion

Approximately 22% of patients presenting with AGEP to a tertiary referral center had haemodynamic instability. Clinicians should be aware that dermatologic phenotype of AGEP at presentation does not correlate with development of haemodynamic instability.
Microdermabrasion Facilitates Direct Current Stimulation by Lowering Skin Resistance
Authors: Chhatbar P. Y. , Liu S. , Ramakrishnan V. , George M. S. , Kautz S. A. , Feng W.
Published: November 2021

Background

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is reported to induce irritating skin sensations and occasional skin injuries, which limits the applied tDCS dose. Additionally, tDCS hardware safety profile prevents high current delivery when skin resistance is high.

Objective

To test if decreasing skin resistance can enable high-dose tDCS delivery without increasing tDCS-related skin sensations or device hardware limits.

Methods

We compared the effect of microdermabrasion and sonication on 2 mA direct current stimulation (DCS) through forearm skin for 2–3 min on 20 subjects. We also surveyed the subjects using a questionnaire throughout the procedure. We used a linear mixed-effects model for repeated-measures and multiple logistic regression, with adjustments for age, race, gender and visit.

Results

Microdermabrasion, with/out sonication, led to significant decrease in skin resistance (1.6 ± 0.1 kΩ or ~32% decrease, p < 0.0001). The decrease with sonication alone (0.4 ± 0.1 kΩ or ~7% decrease, p = 0.0016) was comparable to that of sham (0.3 ± 0.1 kΩ or ~5% decrease, p = 0.0414). There was no increase in the skin–electrode interface temperature. The perceived DCS-related sensations did not differ across skin preparation procedures (p > 0.16), but microdermabrasion (when not combined with sonication) led to increased perceived sensation (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

Microdermabrasion (with/out sonication) resulted in reduced skin resistance without increase in perceived skin sensations with DCS. Higher current can be delivered with microdermabrasion-pre-treated skin without changing the device hardware while reducing, otherwise higher voltage required to deliver the same amount of current.
Impact of Coordination Modes of N‐Donor Ligands on Am(III)/Eu(III) Separation in Nuclear Waste Water Treatment – A DFT Study
Authors: Ebenezer Cheriyan , Solomon Rajadurai Vijay
Published: November 2021

Detection and degradation of environmental pollutants is always a challenging task, especially in nuclear waste management. The presence of radioactive minor actinides in the spent nuclear fuel from nuclear reactors leads to adverse effects on both humans and the environment. In this context, designing ligands plays a pivotal role in the partitioning process of actinides from lanthanides. Though we have many ligands with varying coordination modes reported, one needs to look deeper into the role and number of coordinating atoms of a ligand to gain a basic understanding of the extraction process. Hence, N‐donor ligands (Pypz, BTP, BTPhen and TPDCA) with a different number of coordinating atoms (two, three, four and five) and their Am/Eu complexes have been considered for this study. Exhaustive density functional theory calculations have been carried out to get an essence of the coordination chemistry of ML(NO3)3 complexes and how the number of coordinating atoms impacts the selectivity towards Am3+ over Eu3+ ions. The calculated thermodynamic parameters shed light on the selectivity of these ligands towards Am(III) over Eu(III). Results reveal that the BTP ligand shows the best selectivity out of all the ligands. We found that the higher the number of coordination modes higher will be the binding energy. However, the selectivity depends on the strength and nature of M−L bonds. In brief, this study offers us insights into the tailoring of ligands with an optimum number of coordinating atoms for Am(III)/Eu(III) stripping in the spent nuclear waste processing.
Preparation of Polyvinyl alcohol Hydrogel Braided Wire Reinforced by Soluble starch Granules Based on Magnetoionic induction and Piezoelectric sensing
Authors: Liu Zhiqiang , Fan Jinqiang , Zou Minggui , Ma Xu , Niu Yan , Gong Guifen
Published: November 2021

Integrating textiles with a signal collector may provide sustainable solutions for wearable electronic devices in the Internet of Things era owing to the soaring development of chemistry and materials. This study adopted soluble starch(S) granules for advancing the resistance and formability of polyvinylalcohol (PVA) hydrogel in the structural deformation stage, thus preparing a PVA based composite hydrogel wire that may be produced continuously. In the whole process, the mechanical performance, strain resistance and sensing property of the hydrogel wire were studied. The results showed that when PVA : S=7 : 3, the hydrogel wire had the best formability and mechanical performance, and the stress and strain were 2.3 MPa and 255 % respectively. When starch granules were added in the hydrogel wire, the coincidence degree between starting stress and cyclic stress was increased after the wire was stretched by 17.5 %, and thus, the stability of the hydrogel wire was improved. In addition, the electronic skin strain sensors assembled with hydrogel wires can detect the movement of different parts of the body effectively. In particular, a piezoelectric sensor braided with polyurethane‐encapsulated hydrogel wire may not only generate a voltage about 0.4 mV at a slight touch, but also locate the stress point. When an induction coil is prepared with the hydrogel wire, the magnetoionic induction of a single coil can produce a significant induced voltage, which is conductive to the wireless signal transmission of hydrogel. As a conductor, the hydrogel wire also had a current reaction in phase to AC voltage. And according to the experiment, it is speculated that as braided and electronically integrated, the hydrogel wire can be used in smart fabrics for strain sensing, wireless signal transmission, and force location.
Infection Medications: Assessment In‐Vitro Glutathione S‐Transferase Inhibition and Molecular Docking Study
Authors: Türkeş Cüneyt , Demir Yeliz , Beydemir Şükrü
Published: November 2021

Glutathione S‐transferases (EC 2.5.1.18, GSTs), consisting of at least seven subfamilies, such as alpha, kappa, mu, pi, theta, zeta, and omega, are the family of cytosolic proteins with many known functions and also are abundant in cells. Moreover, they play significant roles in influencing the efficacy and bioavailability of pharmaceutical agents in humans. It is also known that multiple types of cancer tissue frequently have high levels of GSTs compared to the corresponding healthy tissue. Herein, firstly, the GST was purified from human erythrocytes by rapid and straightforward chromatographic techniques. Subsequently, the active infection medications, the antimycotics (amphotericin B, anidulafungin, and caspofungin), antibacterials (daptomycin, ertapenem, and tigecycline), and antiviral (ganciclovir) were assessed for their inhibitory actions versus GST. All drugs demonstrated micromolar levels of potent inhibitory activity towards GST. Antifungal drugs had KI constants ranging between 20.60±0.05 μM and 50.43±0.12 μM, whilst antibacterial drugs exhibited KIs in the range of 20.92±0.09–114.80±0.41 μM. Daptomycin and ertapenem exhibited competitive inhibition, while other drugs in noncompetitive inhibition. Moreover, amphotericin B exhibited the most potent inhibitory activity (KI=20.60±0.05 μM), and in contrast, antiviral drug ganciclovir had the highest inhibition constant (KI=463.10±1.28 μM). Studying both in‐vitro inhibitory activity and molecular docking interactions in silico activities of these infection medications in complex with the GST, an enzyme biologically important, demonstrates was caused significant associations between these drugs and GST were detected. The results here might provide structural guidance to design more potent GST inhibitors.
Synthesis of β‐Chloro‐α‐hydroxyphosphonates through Triethylamine‐Catalyzed Pudovik Reaction
Authors: Guo Huichuang , Cao Yuepeng , Zhang Yulong , Wu Qian , Liu Haibo , Yuan Ling , Liu Changcai , Guo Yongbiao , Shi Enxue
Published: November 2021

Versatile β‐chloro‐α‐hydroxyphosphonates were synthesized in high yields from α‐chloroketones and phosphites based on the efficient control of competitive Pudovik/Arbuzov/Perkow reactions. Triethylamine was found most efficient to catalyze the Pudovik reaction regioselectively under mild solvent‐free conditions. Aliphatic, aromatic, cyclic α‐chloroketones and phosphonites/phosphinites were also applicable to this practical column‐free procedure.
Acquired employees versus hired employees: Retained or turned over?
Authors: Ng Weiyi , Stuart Toby E.
Published: November 2021

Research Summary

Thousands of acquisitions of technology companies result in the de facto hiring of myriad individuals into new employers every year. We analyze the effects of such deals on acquired employee (AE) retention relative to a matched sample of directly hired employees (HEs) joining the same acquirers in the same year. In a dataset with all acquisitions of VC‐backed companies in the previous two decades paired to over 30 million resumes, we find that acquired employees (AEs) turnover at a much higher rate than matched, HEs. Importantly, this difference in turnover rates is larger for AEs in higher job ranks and with advanced degrees. Likewise, we show that the postacquisition departure rate is highest for AEs in critical executive, technical, business development, and sales roles.

Managerial Summary

Acquisitions of venture‐backed tech‐companies occur for many strategic reasons, including the acquisition of key managerial and technical human talent. The retention of acquired talent is thus an important consideration for the value of the acquisition. Through a dataset of over 30 million resumes, we examine the turnover rates of employees acquired through technology acquisitions in the previous two decades, comparing these AEs to their similar, organically hired counterparts. In this comparison, we find that AEs are more likely to turnover in general. Importantly, the higher turnover rate of AEs increases with seniority and education attainment and is the highest in critical executive, technical, business development, and sales roles.
Catch and Release Chemotaxis
Authors: Yasugahira Yusuke , Tatsumi Yuki , Yamanaka Osamu , Nishimori Hiraku , Nagayama Masaharu , Nakata Satoshi
Published: November 2021

Catch and release chemotaxis was studied by using a self‐propelled 6‐methylcoumarin (6‐MC) disk floating on water. A tablet of Na3PO4 placed at the bottom of the water phase acted as a chemical stimulus. The repetition of catch and release chemotaxis, that is, the alternating inversion of the spatial gradient of surface tension, was realized using one 6‐MC disk and one Na3PO4 tablet. Alternating catch and release chemotaxis was observed using two 6‐MC disks and one Na3PO4 tablet. The mechanism of catch and release chemotaxis is discussed in relation to the change in the surface tension of the 6‐MC aqueous phase following the addition of Na3PO4 as the driving force, the spatial concentration gradient of the base dissolved from the tablet in the water phase, and the chemical reaction between 6‐MC and OH−. Understanding this type of chemotaxis system can elucidate the chemotaxis behaviors of living organisms.
Cognitive and metacognitive, motivational, and resource considerations for learning new skills across the lifespan
Authors: Sheffler Pamela , Rodriguez Tania M. , Cheung Cecilia S. , Wu Rachel
Published: November 2021

Across the lifespan, learners have to tackle the challenges of learning new skills. These skills can range from abilities needed for survival, such as learning languages, learning to walk during infancy, and learning new software for a job in adulthood, to abilities related to leisure and hobbies. As the learner progresses through novice to expert stages, there are cognitive and metacognitive, motivational, and resource considerations for learning new skills. In terms of cognitive considerations, fluid and crystallized abilities as well as executive functions interact to help the learner process and retain information related to the skills. In terms of metacognitive considerations, knowing what to learn and how to learn are important for novel skill learning. In terms of motivational considerations, changes in individuals' intrinsic and extrinsic motivation throughout the lifespan impact their pursuit of novel skill learning, and declines in motivation can be buffered through the cultivation of grit, growth mindset, self‐efficacy, and other personal factors. In terms of resource considerations, there are many tools that learners can use to acquire new skills, but allocation and availability of these resources differ based on life stage and socioeconomic status. Taken together, these considerations may provide learners with the best chance at acquiring new skills across the lifespan. Further research investigating these three factors, particularly among older adult learners, and their interactive effects could help increase our understanding of their impacts on skill learning and inform future cognitive interventions that can be tailored to learners' unique needs.

This article is categorized under:

Cognitive Biology > Cognitive Development

Psychology > Development and Aging

Psychology > Learning
The Bur1 cyclin‐dependent kinase regulates telomere length in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Connelly Carla J. , Vidal‐Cardenas Sofia , Goldsmith Stephanie , Greider Carol W.
Published: November 2021

Telomere length regulation is essential for cell viability in eukaryotes. While many pathways that affect telomere length are known, we do not yet have a complete understanding of the mechanism of length regulation. To identify new pathways that might regulate telomere length, we carried out a genetic screen in yeast and identified the cyclin‐dependent kinase complex Bur1/2 as a regulator of telomere length. Mutations in either BUR1 cyclin‐dependent kinase or the associated BUR2 cyclin resulted in short telomeres. This regulation did not function through the known role of BUR1 in regulating histone modification as bur1∆ set2∆ and bur2∆ set2∆ double mutants rescued cell growth but did not rescue the telomere shortening effects. We found that both bur1∆ and bur2∆ set2∆ were also defective in de novo telomere addition, and deletion of SET2 did also not rescue this elongation defect. The Bur1/2 cyclin‐dependent kinase regulates transcription of many genes. We found that TLC1 RNA levels were reduced in bur2∆ set2∆ mutants; however, overexpression of TLC1 restored the transcript levels but did not restore de novo telomere elongation or telomere length. These data suggest that the Bur1/2 kinase plays a role in telomere elongation separate from its role in transcription of telomerase components. Dissecting the role of the Bur1/2 kinase pathway at telomeres will help complete our understanding of the complex network of telomere length regulation.
Re-Theorising Spatial Segregation: A European Perspective
Authors: Piekut Aneta
Published: November 2021

Research on segregation is traditionally associated with studies on residential segregation and the patterns of spatial clustering of minority ethnic groups or residents with immigrant backgrounds. This chapter examines European research on spatial segregation through various social science disciplines, including urban studies, sociology, psychology, spatial and human geography. It presents the range of theoretical approaches employed to explain why people who belong, or are perceived to belong, to dissimilar social categories or to hold different identities become spatially separated from each other, and ways in which this may change. Factors that influence segregation are interrelated. A holistic, interdisciplinary approach to spatial segregation is, therefore, essential to understand such mechanisms and then design policies to counter any negative impacts of segregation. Individual and group experiences are shaped by varied contexts, whether residential, work, leisure, transport and daily encounters. This chapter examines approaches to spatial segregation from a variety of disciplinary perspectives and indicates possible directions for future research.
Income Inequality and Residential Segregation in European Cities
Authors: Tammaru Tiit , Sinitsyna Anastasia , Akhavizadegan Alireza , van Ham Maarten , Marcińczak Szymon , Musterd Sako
Published: November 2021

Basedonextensiveresearchwithdistinguished scholars within the book project ‘Socioeconomic Segregation in European Capital Cities’, this chapter summarizes the key trends in income inequalityand socioeconomic segregationin Europe. We draw our data from the two last census rounds, and we focus on the most common indicators of incomeinequality(Gini Index) and residential segregation(DissimilarityIndex). We find that levels of residential segregation grew between the two last censuses in most of the cities included in our study. Changes in residential segregation follow changes in income inequality with a time lag, and it tends to happen in both directions. Low levels of income inequality relate to low levels of segregation after 10 years, and high levels of inequality relate to high levels of segregation after 10 years.
Urban Villages, Their Redevelopment and Implications for Inequality and Integration
Authors: Wang Ya Ping
Published: November 2021

Urbanvillages are a unique product of China’s rapid urban expansion. They provide a new way of life sustained by property rental income for local villagers. More importantly, urban villages provide cheap accommodation for millions of rural migrant workers in most large cities. Recently, with the increasing demand for land by commercialdevelopers and public projects, urban villages have become the targets for redevelopment. This chapter uses a case study village in Beijing as an example to assess the social and economic impacts of urban village redevelopment on both the original local inhabitants and migrants in rented accommodation. The case study village went through a very long and complicated redevelopment process from 2004 to 2017 involving different stages of demolition and relocation. It provided a rare opportunity to evaluate the effects on the local population, both pre- and post-redevelopment. The study involved several field visits, observation and interviews with village residents. It shows that urban village redevelopment offered no positive benefits for migrant workers who often lost their homes to demolition. For local villagers, redevelopment and relocation into new flats may improve their living conditions. However, most suffer from the loss of long-term economic and income generation opportunities. Moreover, the new property rights for the replacement flats confer no additional rights of citizenship for the relocated villagers who remain ‘second-class citizens’ within Chinese cities.
Resilience in Organizations and Societies: The State of the Art and Three Organizing Principles for Moving Forward
Authors: Frigotto Maria Laura , Young Mitchell , Pinheiro Rómulo
Published: November 2021

Resilience has attracted a multitude of scholars from diverse backgrounds and disciplines as it is a desired feature for responding to the adversities that modern societal systems face, not least the Covid-19 pandemic. Existing research displays little convergence on the definition of the concept making a robust theoretical framework and empirical understanding of resilience highly desirable. The aim of this chapter is to provide a more holistic understanding of the complex phenomenon of resilience from a multi-sectorial, cross-national and multidisciplinary perspective by proposing an original approach into the state of the art that might enhance future research. This chapter identifies three organizing principles for a framework of resilience. First, resilience embeds both stability and change which are both required elements. Second, adversities and their novelty profile can be mapped onto a typology of absorptive, adaptive and transformative resilience. Third, resilience has a temporal dimension that can be articulated in regard to forecasting, mechanisms and outcomes. The chapters of this edited book are positioned and connected by applying these three principles, in order to both enable theory testing and theory development throughout the volume and provide key empirical insights useful for societies, organizations and individuals.
Agency, Institutions and Regional Resilience: An Approach from the Basque Region
Authors: Magro Edurne , Uyarra Elvira , Valdaliso Jesus M.
Published: November 2021

Regional resilience, understood as the regional ability to resist, adapt to, and create new regional paths from external shocks, is one of the most explored issues in the last years in the literature of evolutionary economic geography. However, most of the literature has focused on analysing the regional responses in terms of structural economic change, underplaying the role that institutions and agency play. This chapter will deepen into the role that policy and agency play in two different types of regional resilience, namely resilience to macroeconomic fluctuations and resilience to structural changes. Specifically, it focuses on the role of institutional entrepreneurs and collective agency as mechanisms of change. This means adopting a systemic understanding of regional resilience. The chapter contributes with an historical analysis of the Basque Country region, an old industrial region that has been able to resist, recover and renew after different shocks (economic and financial crisis and structural changes) in the last forty years. The case will shed light into the different institutional and agency factors that shape different types of resilience (adaptation and adaptability capacities), which are intrinsically linked to exploration and exploitation capabilities. Indeed, the chapter focuses on the different policy responses and on the role of agency in shaping resilience, both from an ex-ante and an ex-post perspective. Even though policy denotes a high degree of publicness, the chapter highlights the role of other actors (i.e. private actors, individuals and KIOs) in regional resilience.
Installing an Action Space for Resilience in Surprising Situations
Authors: M. Lehner Johannes , Born Eva , Kelemen Peter , Born Rainer
Published: November 2021

This chapter develops a model of resilient action in situations where established rules or behavioural routines are either not available or are misleading, thus exposing actors to high means-end ambiguity. The model suggests that an ‘action space’ must be created by stabilizing the action system and expanding options for action. It is based on our qualitative research in the Austrian Military (high degree of publicness) on cases of resilient field action, especially as regards ‘bouncing back’ incidents. We contend that different types of drill combined with the acquisition of background knowledge are essential for organizational resilience, the management of unexpected situations and the explanation of success, leading to controlled reproducibility solutions of typical problems. As such, the model intends to explain exploitation types of learning. However, as an antecedent for installing the action space, we explore so-called the ‘exaptation’ of drilled procedures, pertaining to the transfer of procedures to serve novel requirements, thus located in the exploration domain. This phenomenon leads to properties that contribute to recovery from shock in critical situations, through innovation. In short, the chapter provides novel empirical evidence that applying rules does not lead to resilient action in the case of unknown or unexpected situations. Instead, we show robust evidence that a corrective understanding and reflective use of rules and routines is causally related to the ability to deal with surprise and fostering resilience.
The Post-entrepreneurial University: The Case for Resilience in Higher Education
Authors: Young Mitchell , Pinheiro Rómulo
Published: November 2021

Historically speaking, the university has been a highly resilient organizational form; however recent pressures to become entrepreneurial threaten the institutional foundations on which that reliance is based. The chapter first provides conceptual clarity by revisiting what we argue are two distinct schools of thought on the entrepreneurial university. We show how the economic school’s conception intertwines with the rise of New Public Management (NPM) in Europe in the late 1990s and early 2000s, reframing the concept in ways that made it incompatible with resilience thinking. However, we argue that by tying back into ‘lost’ elements of sociological school’s conception, and associating them with concepts from complex systems literature (loose coupling, slack, and requisite diversity), a hybrid model which is both resilient and entrepreneurial can be achieved. We call this the post-entrepreneurial university.
The smallest neutrino mass revisited
Authors: Zhou Shun
Published: November 2021

Abstract

As is well known, the smallest neutrino mass turns out to be vanishing in the minimal seesaw model, since the effective neutrino mass matrix Mν is of rank two due to the fact that only two heavy right-handed neutrinos are introduced. In this paper, we point out that the one-loop matching condition for the effective dimension-five neutrino mass operator can make an important contribution to the smallest neutrino mass. By using the available one-loop matching condition and two-loop renormalization group equations in the supersymmetric version of the minimal seesaw model, we explicitly calculate the smallest neutrino mass in the case of normal neutrino mass ordering and find m1 ∈ [10−8, 10−10] eV at the Fermi scale ΛF = 91.2 GeV, where the range of m1 results from the uncertainties on the choice of the seesaw scale ΛSS and on the input values of relevant parameters at ΛSS.
3-dimensional Λ-BMS symmetry and its deformations
Authors: Borowiec Andrzej , Kowalski-Glikman Jerzy , Unger Josua
Published: November 2021

Abstract

In this paper we study quantum group deformations of the infinite dimensional symmetry algebra of asymptotically AdS spacetimes in three dimensions. Building on previous results in the finite dimensional subalgebras we classify all possible Lie bialgebra structures and for selected examples we explicitely construct the related Hopf algebras. Using cohomological arguments we show that this construction can always be performed by a so-called twist deformation. The resulting structures can be compared to the well-known κ-Poincaré Hopf algebras constructed on the finite dimensional Poincaré or (anti) de Sitter algebra. The dual κ Minkowski spacetime is supposed to describe a specific non-commutative geometry. Importantly, we find that some incarnations of the κ-Poincaré can not be extended consistently to the infinite dimensional algebras. Furthermore, certain deformations can have potential physical applications if subalgebras are considered. Since the conserved charges associated with asymptotic symmetries in 3-dimensional form a centrally extended algebra we also discuss briefly deformations of such algebras. The presence of the full symmetry algebra might have observable consequences that could be used to rule out these deformations.
Impact of asymmetric tethering on outcomes after edge-to-edge mitral valve repair for secondary mitral regurgitation
Authors: Stolz Lukas , Orban Mathias , Braun Daniel , Doldi Philipp , Orban Martin , Stark Konstantin , Mehr Michael , Steffen Julius , Löw Kornelia , Hagl Christian , Massberg Steffen , Näbauer Michael , Hausleiter Jörg
Published: November 2021

Background

The impact of postero-anterior and medio-lateral mitral valve (MV) tethering patterns on outcomes in patients undergoing transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (M-TEER) for secondary mitral regurgitation (SMR) is unknown.

Methods

The ratio of the posterior to anterior MV leaflet angle (PLA/ALA) in MV segment 2 was defined as postero-anterior tethering asymmetry. Medio-lateral tethering asymmetry was assessed as the ratio of the medial (segment 3) to lateral (segment 1) MV tenting area. We used receiver-operating characteristics and a Cox regression model to identify cut-off values of asymmetric anteroposterior and medio-lateral tethering for prediction of 2 year all-cause mortality after TMVR.

Results

Among 178 SMR patients, postero-anterior tethering was asymmetric in 67 patients (37.9%, PLA/ALA ratio > 1.54). Asymmetric medio-lateral tethering (tenting area ratio > 1.49) was observed in 49 patients (27.5%). M-TEER reduced MR to ≤ 2 + in 92.1% of patients; MR reduction was less effective in the presence of asymmetric postero-anterior tethering (p = 0.02). A multivariable Cox regression model identified both types of asymmetric MV tethering to be associated with increased all-cause 2-year mortality (postero-anterior tethering asymmetry: HR = 2.77, CI 1.43–5.38; medio-lateral tethering asymmetry: HR = 2.90, CI 1.54–5.45; p < 0.01).

Conclusions

Asymmetric postero-anterior and medio-lateral MV tethering patterns are associated with increased 2-year mortality in patients undergoing M-TEER for SMR. A detailed echocardiographic analysis of MV anatomy may help to identify patients who profit most from M-TEER.

Graphical abstract
Rehabilitation during early postoperative period following total knee arthroplasty using single-joint hybrid assistive limb as new therapy device: a randomized, controlled clinical pilot study
Authors: Mrotzek Silvia J. , Ahmadi Shahir , von Glinski Alexander , Brinkemper Alexis , Aach Mirko , Schildhauer Thomas A. , Cibura Charlotte
Published: November 2021

Introduction

The first weeks after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) are crucial for the functional outcome. To improve knee mobility, a continuous passive motion (CPM) motor rail is commonly used during in-hospital rehabilitation. The single-joint hybrid assistive limb (HAL-SJ) is a new therapy device. The aim of the study was to improve patients’ range of motion (ROM), mobility, and satisfaction using the active-assistive support of the HAL-SJ.

Materials and methods

Between 09/2017 and 10/2020, 34 patients, who underwent TKA and matched the inclusion criteria, were randomized into study (HAL-SJ) and control (CPM) group. Treatment began after drain removal and was carried out until discharge. Primary outcome parameters were raised pre- and postoperatively and included the Oxford knee score (OKS), visual analog scale (VAS), and acquired range of motion. Furthermore complications caused by the device were recorded.

Results

OKS increased in both groups postoperatively, but only significantly in the HAL-SJ group. Postoperative pain improved in both groups without significant differences. Flexion improvement was significant in both groups between days 3/7 and 8 weeks postoperatively. We did not encounter any complications related to HAL-SJ.

Conclusions

In conclusion, use of the HAL-SJ during rehabilitation in the early postoperative period after TKA was safe without disadvantages compared to the control group and seems to have advantages in terms of daily life impairment.