bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of a self-report measure of GPS uses and its relationship with environmental knowledge and self-efficacy and pleasure in exploring
Authors: Miola L. , Muffato V. , Boldrini A. , Pazzaglia F. , Meneghetti C.
Published: November 2024

The widely utilized Global Positioning System (GPS) plays a crucial role in everyday navigation. The literature has predominantly focused on GPS use for reaching destinations rather than exploring its various strategic applications and relations with individual factors. The current paper is intended to develop a GPS Uses Scale assessing a variety of GPS uses for wayfinding and other GPS uses (Study 1). We also examine whether GPS uses are related to gender, age, self-efficacy and pleasure in exploring, dependence on GPS devices, and environment knowledge (Study 2). In Study 1, 365 participants completed the new GPS Uses Scale and the McGill GPS questionnaire, for assessing validity. Results from the confirmatory factor analysis confirmed a structure as five-level factors, good reliability, and validity. In Study 2, 200 participants completed the GPS Uses Scale, self-efficacy and pleasure in exploring scale, GPS dependence scale, and a sketch map task after learning a virtual city from a video. Results from the linear model showed that those who use GPS for strategic purposes reported higher self-efficacy and pleasure in exploring as well as dependence on GPS. Moreover, those who use GPS for orientation purposes reported higher dependency on GPS and had higher scores on the map task (environment knowledge). Men were less likely to use GPS for orientation. The present paper outlines the importance of assessing the various uses of GPS, suggesting self-efficacy and dependence on GPS, and contributes to its strategic use.
Harnessing the impact of beneficial microorganisms to control Meloidogyne incognita in tomato cultivation across diverse environments
Authors: Swe Win Lai Lai , Tóth Ferenc , Petrikovszki Renáta , Ladányi Márta , Fail József
Published: November 2024

Background

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) can overcome productivity challenges caused by plant-parasitic nematodes, especially Meloidogyne incognita. M. incognita is the most harmful polyphagous endoparasitic nematode of various cultivated crops globally and causes huge yield losses. The use of traditional chemical nematicides poses environmental and health risks, which is why safe alternatives are being explored. This study aimed to find alternatives to peat as a potting medium and evaluate their effectiveness in enhancing plant resilience against nematodes. Specifically, the study assessed the efficacy of four biocontrol agents (Trichoderma asperellum, Beauveria bassiana, Fusarium proliferatum and Bacillus mojavensis) in peat-based and compost-based potting media under open-field and greenhouse conditions.

Result

The research analyzes their impact on plant growth performance and their capacity to mitigate the severity of galling, the primary symptom caused by M. incognita in tomato cultivation. The results showed insignificant difference between peat and compost-based media in open-field (F(1,101) = 0.001, p = 0.97) and greenhouse (F(1,90) = 2.53, p = 0.12) experiments. However, biocontrol agents differed significantly in effectiveness (open field: F(4,101) = 5.85, p < 0.001; greenhouse: F(4,90) = 15.88, p < 0.001). B. mojavensis reduced the gall index by 81.24% in compost-based medium, and B. bassiana reduced it by 68.86% in peat-based medium.

Conclusion

This study unequivocally demonstrated the remarkable efficacy of F. proliferatum and T. asperellum in promoting aboveground plant development. The application of biocontrol agents F. proliferatum, T. asperellum, B. bassiana and B. mojavensis resulted in a substantial 25–81% reduction in nematode galling index compared to the untreated control.
Different metabolite profiles across Penicillium roqueforti populations associated with ecological niche specialisation and domestication
Authors: Crequer E. , Coton E. , Cueff G. , Cristiansen J. V. , Frisvad J. C. , Rodríguez de la Vega R. C. , Giraud T. , Jany J.-L. , Coton M.
Published: November 2024

Fungi are known to produce many chemically diversified metabolites, yet their ecological roles are not always fully understood. The blue cheese fungus Penicillium roqueforti thrives in different ecological niches and is known to produce a wide range of metabolites, including mycotoxins. Three P. roqueforti populations have been domesticated for cheese production and two populations thrive in other anthropized environments, i.e., food, lumber and silage. In this study, we looked for differences in targeted and untargeted metabolite production profiles between populations using HPLC-HR-Q-TOF and UHPLC-Q-TOF-HR-MS/MS. The non-cheese populations produced several fatty acids and different terpenoids, lacking in cheese strains. The Termignon cheese population displayed intermediate metabolite profiles between cheese and non-cheese populations, as previously shown for other traits. The non-Roquefort cheese population with the strongest domestication syndrome, produced the lowest quantities of measured metabolites, including mycophenolic acid (MPA), andrastin A and PR toxin. Its inability to produce MPA was due to a deletion in the mpaC gene, while a premature stop codon in ORF 11 of the PR toxin gene cluster explained PR toxin absence and the accumulation of its intermediates, i.e., eremofortins A and B. In the Roquefort population, we detected no PR toxin nor eremofortins A or B, but found no indel or frameshift mutation, suggesting downregulation. The hypotoxigenic trait of domesticated cheese populations can be hypothesized to be linked to the loss of this ability through trait degeneration and/or the selection of low toxin producers. It may also be due to the fact that populations from other anthropized environments maintained high metabolite diversity as the bioactivities of these compounds are likely important in these ecological niches.
The identification of key genes and pathways in polycystic ovary syndrome by bioinformatics analysis of next-generation sequencing data
Authors: Alur Varun , Vastrad Basavaraj , Raju Varshita , Vastrad Chanabasayya , Kotturshetti Shivakumar
Published: November 2024

Background

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a reproductive endocrine disorder. The specific molecular mechanism of PCOS remains unclear. The aim of this study was to apply a bioinformatics approach to reveal related pathways or genes involved in the development of PCOS.

Methods

The next-generation sequencing (NGS) dataset GSE199225 was downloaded from the gene expression omnibus (GEO) database and NGS dataset analyzed is obtained from in vitro culture of PCOS patients’ muscle cells and muscle cells of healthy lean control women. Differentially expressed gene (DEG) analysis was performed using DESeq2. The g:Profiler was utilized to analyze the gene ontology (GO) and REACTOME pathways of the differentially expressed genes. A protein–protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed and module analysis was performed using HiPPIE and cytoscape. The miRNA-hub gene regulatory network and TF-hub gene regulatory network were constructed. The hub genes were validated by using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis.

Results

We have identified 957 DEG in total, including 478 upregulated genes and 479 downregulated gene. GO terms and REACTOME pathways illustrated that DEG were significantly enriched in regulation of molecular function, developmental process, interferon signaling and platelet activation, signaling, and aggregation. The top 5 upregulated hub genes including HSPA5, PLK1, RIN3, DBN1, and CCDC85B and top 5 downregulated hub genes including DISC1, AR, MTUS2, LYN, and TCF4 might be associated with PCOS. The hub gens of HSPA5 and KMT2A, together with corresponding predicted miRNAs (e.g., hsa-mir-34b-5p and hsa-mir-378a-5p), and HSPA5 and TCF4 together with corresponding predicted TF (e.g., RCOR3 and TEAD4) were found to be significantly correlated with PCOS.

Conclusions

These study uses of bioinformatics analysis of NGS data to obtain hub genes and key signaling pathways related to PCOS and its associated complications. Also provides novel ideas for finding biomarkers and treatment methods for PCOS and its associated complications.
Artificial intelligence deep learning software for segmentation of mediastinal and hilar lymph nodes on plain CT: a retrospective study in a cancer population
Authors: Takaishi Taku , Kawai Tatsuya , Kita Megumi , Shibata Shunsuke , Hiwatashi Akio
Published: November 2024

Background

Accurate identification and characterization of lymph nodes (LNs) are essential in cancer staging and treatment planning. While artificial intelligence (AI) has shown potential in detecting lymphadenopathy on contrast-enhanced CT scans, its performance on non-contrast (plain) CT scans remains less explored. This retrospective study aimed to assess the efficacy of AI for segmenting LNs on plain CT in patients with lung or gastrointestinal cancer. Eligible cases were selected based on plain CT scans with 5 mm slice thickness, showing mediastinal or hilar LNs with a short-axis diameter of ≥ 10 mm. A total of 144 patients (105 men, 39 women; mean age, 76 years) were included, comprising 342 LNs. A commercially available deep learning AI software was used for segmentation, with the ground-truth defined by two radiologists’ consensus on LNs measuring ≥ 10 mm.

Results

The AI software showed a sensitivity of 83.9%, with no statistically significant difference between mediastinal and hilar LNs (p = 0.84). The false-positive rate was 0.465 per patient. The Dice coefficient was 0.908, and there was no statistically significant difference between the mediastinum and hilum (p = 0.19). The sensitivity decreased in larger LNs, showing an inverse correlation (r = −0.122, p < 0.01).

Conclusions

This study demonstrated the robustness of the AI software in the segmentation of LNs in the mediastinum and hilum on plain CT scans.
Common genetic etiologies of sensorineural hearing loss in Koreans
Authors: Jang Seung Hyun , Yoon Kuhn , Gee Heon Yung
Published: November 2024

Hearing loss is the most common sensory disorder. Genetic factors contribute substantially to this condition, although allelic heterogeneity and variable expressivity make a definite molecular diagnosis challenging. To provide a brief overview of the genomic landscape of sensorineural hearing loss in Koreans, this article reviews the genetic etiologies of nonsyndromic hearing loss in Koreans as well as the clinical characteristics, genotype–phenotype correlations, and pathogenesis of hearing loss arising from common variants observed in this population. Furthermore, potential genetic factors associated with age-related hearing loss, identified through genome-wide association studies, are briefly discussed. Understanding these genetic etiologies is crucial for advancing precise molecular diagnoses and developing targeted therapeutic interventions for hearing loss.
A brief review on evolutionary game models for the emergence of fairness
Authors: Zhang Yanling , Li Yin , Xiao Feng
Published: November 2024

Fairness stands as a pivotal element in maintaining social stability. It is still a highly challenging issue to explain how fairness emerges in society. The ultimatum game (UG) and the dictator game (DG) have become prominent paradigms for exploring the emergence of fairness. A great number of mechanisms have been put forward to promote the emergence of fairness in these two games. In this paper, we sort out the recent relevant evolutionary game models regarding fairness and categorize them according to the mechanisms for the emergence of fairness. The main mechanisms consist of network reciprocity, role assignment, spite, empathy, stake size, and indirect reciprocity. Especially for indirect reciprocity, we make a detailed introduction of a theoretical method and some recent works that use this theoretical approach to explore how fairness evolves. Finally, we suggest several potential avenues for future research.
Sex Differences in Insulin-Induced Hippocampus Functional Connectivity During Visual Food-Cue Presentation
Authors: Zhao Sixiu , Veit Ralf , Semeia Lorenzo , Hummel Julia , Sandforth Leontine , Fritsche Andreas , Birkenfeld Andreas L , Heni Martin , Preissl Hubert , Kullmann Stephanie
Published: November 2024

Context

Central insulin has been shown to regulate eating behavior and cognitive processes in a sex-specific manner. Besides memory, the hippocampus is pivotal in the control of appetite.

Objective

This work aimed to investigate how insulin interacts with the hippocampal food-cue response and evaluate the potential role of sex hormones.

Methods

Using functional magnetic resonance imaging, we evaluated task-based functional connectivity (FC) of the hippocampus during food-cue presentation in 60 participants (age: 21-69 years; 30 women) after intranasal insulin or placebo administration, in a randomized within-subject design. In an exploratory analysis, we investigated whether hippocampal FC after intranasal insulin administration is related to estradiol and progesterone levels during the follicular and luteal phase of the menstrual cycle in 13 premenopausal women (age: 20-28 years).

Results

Intranasal insulin increased hippocampal FC with the prefrontal cortex compared to placebo, regardless of sex. This correlated with stronger reduction in subjective feeling of hunger and food craving. Moreover, we observed an interaction between sex and nasal spray condition with higher hippocampal FC to the calcarine gyrus after insulin compared to placebo in men, while women showed a lower response. In premenopausal women, the centrally mediated effect of insulin on hippocampus to calcarine gyrus FC negatively correlated with the estradiol/progesterone ratio in the luteal phase.

Conclusion

Central insulin influences hippocampal FC to regions vital for inhibitory control during high-caloric food-cue presentation, implying a potential role of the hippocampal network in modulating insulin's anorexic effects. The observed sex differences between the hippocampus and visual cortex might be influenced by sex hormone action.
Radioactive Iodine Treatment for Thyroid Cancer Complicated by Lacrimal Sac Retention of Iodine
Authors: Suresh Annu , Esposito Giuseppe , Davidson Bruce , Doroslovački Pavle , Jonklaas Jacqueline
Published: November 2024

Patients with intermediate-risk thyroid cancers may undergo treatment with radioactive iodine-131 (I-131). They often undergo a pretreatment diagnostic iodine scan that typically shows areas of physiological uptake in the stomach, bladder, parotid glands as well as thyroid-remnant uptake and sites of metastatic disease. A 48-year-old woman with intermediate-risk papillary thyroid cancer with metastases to lateral compartment lymph nodes was found to have increased retention of iodine in the medial portion of her left orbit on the diagnostic scan. This was suggestive of preexisting nasolacrimal duct stenosis leading to retention of secretions in the lacrimal sac, raising concerns that the I-131 used in treatment would have delayed clearance that could further damage her lacrimal sac and eye. In consultation with ophthalmology, the patient received pretreatment azelastine and prednisolone drops and underwent treatment with radioactive iodine followed by saline lacrimal irrigation. Though she had subsequent eye pain and swelling necessitating repeated irrigation, the patient was able to undergo treatment for her papillary thyroid cancer and retained full function of her eye. This case highlights an approach that could be used for patients with nasolacrimal duct stenosis in whom radioactive iodine treatment is deemed beneficial.
Characterization of nitric oxide in Octopus maya nervous system and its potential role in sensory perception
Authors: Vergara-Ovalle Fabián , León-Olea Martha , Sánchez-Islas Eduardo , Pellicer Francisco
Published: November 2024

The role of nitric oxide as a neurotransmitter in the olfactory and chemoreception systems of invertebrates has been well documented. This suggests an early and efficient sensory detection system that is evolutionarily preserved in various species, including vertebrates and invertebrates. Additionally, the presence of a nitric oxide neurotransmitter system has been reported in molluscs, particularly in octopus species. In this work, we present evidence for the existence of nitric oxide synthase in neurons and fibers, as well as its anatomical localization in various nuclei involved in chemosensory integration and the motor responses associated with these processes in Octopus maya.
Interoperability in demand response services for building systems interaction
Authors: Gutiérrez Caballero Susana María , Hernández José Luis , Mammina Marzia , Vitale Luca , Rossi Alessandro
Published: November 2024

Background The increasing complexity of building systems, such as HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), lighting, and energy management, has exacerbated interoperability challenges. Diverse communication protocols and data formats hinder seamless integration, affecting optimal building performance and energy efficiency. Demand Response (DR) programs, which adjust energy use based on grid signals, are particularly impacted by these issues. Methods This study proposes an ontology-based approach to address interoperability in DR programs, using the DEDALUS project as a case study. The DEDALUS project aims to enable large-scale DR participation and adapt to various energy scenarios. A multi-level framework was developed, emphasizing foundational, structural, and semantic interoperability. The foundational layer employs the Demand Response Control Ontology (dCO), expanded with DR-specific entities. Integrating established ontologies, such as Smart Appliances REFerence ontology (SAREF), Open Automated Demand Response (OpenADR), and Brick schema, ensures consistency and expedites development. The FIWARE Next Generation Service Interface-Linked Data (NGSI-LD) standard enhances system compatibility across applications and services. Results The integration of ontologies within the DEDALUS framework standardizes data models, ensuring semantic consistency and facilitating effective communication between building systems and the grid. By leveraging ontologies like dCO, SAREF, and Brick, the project enhances data interoperability and reduces development complexity. The use of FIWARE NGSI-LD for context data management ensures that systems remain compatible and can seamlessly exchange data, improving overall system efficiency and responsiveness. Conclusions The study highlights that semantic interoperability is essential for successful DR programs. Standardizing data models and protocols enhances system communication and efficiency. This work underscores the importance of ontology-based frameworks and open standards, such as FIWARE, to promote innovation, reduce energy consumption, and advance sustainable building management.
Variables and Dynamics of the Middle Eastern System
Authors: Zdanowski Jerzy
Published: November 2024

Background This study explores the transformative impact of three significant events on the Middle Eastern regional system: the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, the Arab Spring of 2011, and the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel. These events have altered the regional balance, leading to an evolving, complex, and multi-polar system. This research assesses the role of both state and non-state actors, examining their influence on the region’s stability and overall structure. Methods Employing a mixed-method approach that combines area studies and international relations (IR) theory, this study examines the regional power dynamics using twelve indicators to assess hard and soft power, including economic, military, and socio-political metrics. The analysis positions regional actors within a multi-tiered structure, evaluating the interplay between internal and external influences to explain the current distribution of power. Results The study finds that the Middle Eastern system has developed into a hierarchical yet anarchic structure, characterized by a competitive and multi-polar power distribution. Although external actors, such as the United States, continue to play pivotal roles, regional powers – including Saudi Arabia, Israel, Turkey, and Iran – exert significant influence, leading to an inherently unstable system. This dynamic interplay fosters competition and limits cooperative stability. Conclusion The findings suggest that the Middle Eastern regional system’s volatility is rooted in this unique distribution of power, where continuous struggles among actors contribute to persistent instability. Understanding these dynamics is essential for assessing future developments and potential stability within the region.
Case Report: Soft tissue infection with Burkholderia thailandensis capsular variant: case report from the Lao PDR
Authors: Vannachone Souphaphone , Luangraj Manophab , Dance David , Chantratita Narisara , Saiprom Natnaree , Seng Rathanin , Tandhavanant Sarunporn , Rattanavong Sayaphet , Simpson Andrew , Roberts Tamalee
Published: November 2024

Background Burkholderia thailandensis is an environmental bacteria closely related to Burkholderia pseudomallei that rarely causes infection in humans. Some environmental isolates have shown to express a capsular polysaccharide known as B. thailandensis capsular variant (BTCV), but human infection has not previously been reported. Although B. thailandenisis has been identified in environmental samples in Laos before, there have not been any human cases reported. Case A 44-year-old man presented to a district hospital in Laos with a short history of fever and pain in his left foot. Physical examination identified a deep soft-tissue abscess in his left foot and an elevated white blood count. A deep pus sample was taken and melioidosis was suspected from preliminary laboratory tests. The patient was initially started on cloxacillin, ceftriaxone and metronidazole, and was then changed to ceftazidime treatment following local melioidosis treatment guidelines. Laboratory methods A deep pus sample was sent to Mahosot Hospital microbiology laboratory where a mixed infection was identified including Burkholderia sp. Conventional identification tests and API 20NE were inconclusive, and the B. pseudomallei-specific latex agglutination was positive. The isolate then underwent a Burkholderia species specific PCR which identified the isolate as B. thailandensis. The isolate was sent for sequencing on the Illumina NovaSeq 6000 system and multi-locus sequence typing analysis identified the isolate had the same sequence type (ST696) as B. thailandensis E555, a strain which expresses a B. pseudomallei-like capsular polysaccharide. Conclusion This is the first report of human infection with B. thailandensis in Laos, and the first report of any human infection with the B. thailandensis capsular variant. Due to the potential for laboratory tests to incorrectly identify this bacteria, staff in endemic areas for B. thailandensis and B. pseudomallei should be aware and ensure that appropriate confirmatory methods are used to differentiate between the species.
Suitability of low and middle-income country data-derived prognostics models for benchmarking mortality in a multinational Asia critical care registry network: a multicentre study
Authors: Gamage Dona Dilanthi Priyadarshani , Aryal Diptesh , Ghose Aniruddha , Hashmi Madiha , Nath Ranjan Kumar , Mat Nor Mohd Basri , Thwaites Louise , Tripathy Swagata , Vijayaraghavan Bharath Kumar Tirupakuzhi , Yen Lam Minh , Dondorp Arjen M , Haniffa Rashan , Nirantharakumar Krishnarajah , Karwath Andreas , Snell Kym , Parekh Dhruv , Beane Abigail ,   Collaboration for Research, Implementation and Training in Critical Care; Asia Africa ‘CCAA’
Published: November 2024

Background This study evaluates the predictive performance of prognostic models derived from low- and middle-income country (LMIC) data using a multinational Asian critical care dataset. The research also seeks to identify opportunities for improving these models' accuracy and utility in clinical research and for international benchmarking of critical care outcomes Methods This retrospective multicenter study evaluated the performance of four prognostic models: e-Tropical Intensive Care Score (e-TropICS), Tropical Intensive Care Score (TropICS), Simplified Mortality Score for the Intensive Care Unit (SMS-ICU), and Rwanda Mortality Probability Model (R-MPM) using a dataset of 64,327 ICU admissions from 109 ICUs across six Asian countries. The models' discriminative abilities were assessed using ROC curves, and calibration was evaluated with Hosmer-Lemeshow C-statistics and calibration curves. Recalibration was performed to improve model accuracy, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on model performance was also analysed. Results The e-TropICS and R-MPM models showed relatively good discriminative power, with AUCs of 0.71 and 0.69, respectively. However, all models exhibited significant calibration issues, particularly at higher predicted probabilities, even after recalibration. The study also revealed variability in model performance across different countries, with India's data demonstrating the highest discriminative power. Conclusions The study highlights the challenges of applying existing prognostic models in diverse ICU settings, particularly in LMICs. While the e-TropICS and R-MPM models performed relatively well, significant calibration issues indicate a need for further refinement. Future efforts should focus on developing adaptable models that can effectively accommodate the diverse and dynamic nature of ICU populations worldwide, ensuring their utility in global healthcare benchmarking and decision-making.
Pamięć, polityczność, władza. Reprezentacje pamięci zbiorowej w Gruzji, Armenii, Górskim Karabachu i Abchazji
Authors: Krzysztan Bartłomiej
Published: November 2024

Założeniem tej książki jest przedstawienie relacji pamięci, władzy i polityczności zawartych w reprezentacjach pamięci, najczęściej nieoczywistych, wielowymiarowych, hybrydalnych bądź jednoznacznie wypieranych i zapominanych w Abchazji, Armenii, Gruzji i Górskim Karabachu. Jest to próba ukazania pamięci zbiorowej jako polityczności, działania, praktyki politycznej i dyskursu, przez analizę reprezentacji pamięci, które obejmują znaki i kody, konsolidując tym samym struktury i mechanizmy pamiętania i zapominania, znacznie trwalsze od zawartości tekstów. Opisanie tej dynamicznej, otwartej struktury z pewnością wskazuje, jak istotnym elementem wszelkich narracji politycznych w regionie Kaukazu Południowego jest pamięć.
Świadomość, wolna wola, jaźń. Metafizyka Galena Strawsona
Authors: Jarocki Jacek
Published: November 2024

Świadomość, wolna wola i jaźń to kanoniczne zagadnienia filozoficzne od setek lat frapujące kolejne pokolenia uczonych. Podjął je również współczesny brytyjski filozof analityczny Galen John Strawson (ur. 1952), który w trakcie czterdziestoletniej kariery poświęcił tym tematom liczne książki i artykuły. Jego myśl wyróżnia się odwagą, z jaką broni niepopularnych w nurcie filozofii anglosaskiej poglądów, takich jak panpsychizm, koncepcja pojęciowej sprzeczności moralnej odpowiedzialności czy teoria krótkotrwałych jaźni. Choć pomysły te wzbudzają wiele głosów polemicznych, mają coraz większe znaczenie w najnowszych debatach. Celem książki jest krytyczne przedstawienie poglądów Strawsona odnoszących się do tytułowych kwestii. Monografia zarysowuje zarazem szerszy kontekst historycznych i współczesnych dyskusji. Nie jest ona zatem wyłącznie streszczeniem idei Brytyjczyka, ale także próbą wskazania ich miejsca we współczesnych sporach, a ponadto – odpowiedzi na pytanie, jaką rolę odgrywa filozofia Strawsona w analitycznej metafizyce.
Telehealth in Acute Care: Pay Parity and Patient Access
Authors: Çakıcı Özden Engin , Mills Alex F.
Published: November 2024

Problem definition: In response to the increased use of telehealth to replace traditional office visits with a physician, several U.S. states have recently adopted telehealth pay-parity policies. Such policies state that payers must reimburse healthcare providers for telehealth services at the same rate that would apply if those services had been provided in a traditional office setting. But health policy researchers have pointed out that telehealth may not be as effective as a traditional office visit for acute care. Specifically, telehealth is associated with increased probability of a subsequent office visit (a “duplicate visit”). We examine whether telehealth pay-parity policies are effective at improving access to acute care, and under what conditions. Methodology/results: We use a three-stage game-theoretic model to study the impact of telehealth pay parity. In the first stage, the payer sets a reimbursement policy for telehealth visits. In the second stage, a healthcare provider commits a portion of its capacity to telehealth, and in the third stage, patients arrive and choose between telehealth and office visits according to an equilibrium queueing network. We find structural results for the equilibria and characterize the equilibria in closed-form. When the chance of a duplicate visit is moderate (neither too high nor too low), pay parity leads providers to allocate too much capacity to telehealth, resulting in lower overall patient access than could be otherwise achieved. We characterize a reimbursement level that avoids this misalignment and maximizes patient access, which we show is less than parity. Managerial implications: The literature shows that patients receiving acute care via telehealth may be more likely to require a duplicate, in-person visit to resolve their health concern. In the fee-for-service environment that is common in the United States for acute care, duplicate visits resulting from telehealth lead to an incentive alignment problem because they generate extra work and provider revenue, without any corresponding increase in patient access. Legislating pay parity for telehealth can lead to providers committing more capacity to telehealth, which may not always be good. However, there is good news in that all parties (payers, providers, and patients) would be better off if duplicate visits could be decreased. Policy makers should understand these implications before enacting policies that affect reimbursements for telehealth.

Funding: Support for this project was provided by a PSC-CUNY Award, jointly funded by The Professional Staff Congress and The City University of New York.

Supplemental Material: The online appendix is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/msom.2022.0345 .
A case report of mesenteric panniculitis and fibrous dysplasia with primary metabolic syndrome
Authors: Khandalavala Birgit , Cuppett Ryder
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Mesenteric panniculitis (MP) is a rare clinically diagnosed disease resulting from fibro-inflammation in the intestinal adipose tissue. Precedent intra-abdominal inflammation or trauma is often evident. Fibrous dysplasia (FD) is a benign uncommon childhood disease of the bones, with fibrous connective tissue replacing bone tissue. FD can cause pain, disfigurement, and entrapment of critical neighbouring structures. Adult-onset craniofacial involvement is rare. Metabolic syndrome is characterized by obesity and chronic subclinical inflammation, promoting abnormal cellular fibrosis and proliferation. The concomitant incidence of MP and FD in an older female adult with metabolic syndrome is unprecedented. An aberrant metabolic contributory pathophysiology for both MP and FD could be postulated. Case Report: A 60-year-old Caucasian woman with primary long-standing well-treated metabolic syndrome with obesity presented for revision bariatric surgery. She had previous intra-abdominal surgeries and occasional intermittent abdominal pain. The surgery was abandoned due to extensively inflamed intestinal mesentery. Radiological studies and intra-abdominal biopsy confirmed MP. She subsequently developed pronounced unilateral facial swelling and radiological studies confirmed FD. Treatment has been suboptimal for both MP and FD. She developed venous thromboembolism on tamoxifen treatment for MP. The patient currently reports abdominal pain and swelling from MP, and facial disfigurement, pain, and tinnitus from FD. Blood markers for inflammation have remained consistently high, and there is statin intolerance. Most recently liver steatosis and diabetes have developed. Conclusion: A case of MP and FD with primary metabolic syndrome is unique. An increased awareness of such rare cases could lead to further research, and critically needed treatments to optimize outcomes.
Coexistence of vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and sticky platelet syndrome: a lethal combination in a young patient with thrombophilia and haemorrhagic diathesis
Authors: De Miguel-Escribano Manuel , Garrido-Montes Manuel , Astudillo-Ortega Pablo , Pertusa-Mataix Roberto , Rodríguez-Trigueros Andrea , Corchero-Gijón Jorge , Garcia-Morillo Jose-Salvador
Published: November 2024

Background: The coexistence of hypercoagulability and bleeding diathesis in the same patient represents a potentially lethal combination due to its complex management. Vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (vEDS) and sticky platelet syndrome (SPS) are classified as rare diseases due to their low prevalence. vEDS is associated with bleeding tendencies caused by vascular wall fragility, while SPS is characterized by atypical arterial and venous thrombosis. Case Report: We report a 27-year-old woman, smoker and regular consumer of energy drinks, with a medical history of subclinical hypothyroidism, minor thalassemia, recurrent joint sprains, high myopia, and anterior mitral valve prolapse, who was diagnosed with both vEDS and SPS type I. The patient experienced a catastrophic progression over a short time period, marked by numerous thrombotic and bleeding episodes, ultimately leading to a fatal outcome. Conclusions: This report documents the first known case of concurrent vEDS and SPS, highlighting the complexity and challenges in the management of these two rare conditions together. The interplay between these syndromes necessitates careful clinical consideration and the development of tailored management strategies to mitigate associated risks. This underscores the crucial role of the internist in overseeing such cases. Further studies are needed to explore new therapeutic strategies aimed at improving survival rates and outcomes for patients with this unique combination of disorders.
Examining the Reading Fluency, Reading Comprehension, and Retelling Skills of Primary School Students
Authors: Kodan Hülya
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the reading fluency, reading comprehension, and retelling skills of 135 typically developing primary school students in the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th grades. It aims to evaluate their current levels and examine the relationships among these skills. The study was conducted using a relational survey design, which is one of the quantitative research methods. Data for the study were collected through narrative texts, reading comprehension, and retelling forms appropriate for each grade level. Audio recordings were taken to determine the students' reading fluency and retelling levels, while their reading comprehension levels were assessed in written form. Statistical software was used for data analysis. The results indicated that a significant portion of the students demonstrated instructional-level reading fluency, reading comprehension, and retelling skills. Moreover, a positive and significant relationship was found between the students' reading fluency and their reading comprehension and retelling skills. Based on these results, the retelling technique was used as an assessment tool in this study. However, it is recommended that it be employed as a teaching tool to develop students' retelling skills. Additionally, various methods and techniques can be utilized to improve students' reading fluency and retelling skills.
A IMPORTÂNCIA DAS INSTITUIÇÕES NA PRODUTIVIDADE AGROPECUÁRIA DOS MUNICÍPIOS DA REGIÃO SUL DO BRASIL
Authors: Todeschini Caroline , Campos Antonio Carlos de
Published: November 2024

Este trabalho relaciona instituições da agropecuária da região Sul do Brasil com a produtividade do setor. O argumento deste paper reside no approach institucionalista, considerando as instituições como atores com capacidade de impactar a trajetória econômica. A metodologia inclui a elaboração de um indicador de produtividade por meio da lógica fuzzy e seu estudo pela análise de clusters e regressão linear a partir de dados do Censo Agropecuário 2006. Utilizando variáveis de assistência técnica, associativismo, qualificação e instituições de ensino como proxies, a análise de clusters mostrou que grande parte dos municípios da região Sul apresenta baixa produtividade da agropecuária e a análise de regressão indicou determinação positiva entre instituições e produtividade em quase toda região. Nesse contexto, a maior contribuição foi da variável assistência técnica, possível consequência da maior diversidade de instituições que prestam esse serviço e por ser uma atividade que gera resultados mais imediatos no rendimento dos fatores de produção, quais sejam terra, capital e trabalho.
Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment of Non-thermal Processed Japanese Foods Using Monte Carlo Simulation
Authors: Song Ju-Hyun , Choi Yu-Jin , Nang Hyo-Min , Lee Kwang-Geun
Published: November 2024

The aim of this study was to control the outbreak of food pathogen through quantitative microbial risk assessment (QMRA). We used Monte Calro Simulation (MCS) to predict contamination levels of Staphylococcus aureus on the raw materials, equipments and cook in Japanese restaurant located in Seoul. The result of sensitivity analysis showed that the most significant factor for the outbreak of food pathogen was consumption temperature and storage time. In shrimp and octopus sushi, ‘consumption temperature’ was the highest sensitivity value of 0.419 followed by 'storage time' of 0.374. To increase safety of sushi, consumers should have sushi as soon as possible after cooking. In sushi 'storage time after cooking' was determined as Critical Control Point (CCP). To determine Control Limit (CL), Scenario Analysis (SA) was carried out. In sushi, SA was carried out using storage time as a unit condition. Safety level of S. aureus was set lower than 5 log CFU/g. After 2 hr ‘storage time’ the number of S. aureus increased to 3.908 log CFU/g. Therefore, 'storage time' of sushi was set as CL in case of room temperature storage.
Detection of Spoilage Odors in Beef Using R-index and Pseudomonas Growth during Storage
Authors: Byeon Ko Eun , Park Han Jo , An Soo Rim , Hong Kwang Won , Min Sang Gi , Chung Ku Young , Won Kee Hoon , Lee Seung Ju
Published: November 2024

Detection of spoilage odors from beef during storage was investigated using sensory evaluation with R-index, and microbial assay for Pseudomonas. Beef samples were tested to measure the flavor changes, which were converted to R-index, and the Pseudomonas levels during storage. There was a steep rise in R-index until 36 hr after storage at 25°C, and then a gentle rise from 48 hr, whereas, there was a steady rise in R-index in the whole range of storage at 5°C. Detection time of spoilage odors according to R-index was statistically analyzed at α=5% to be at 30.92±3.47 hr and 169.80±11.27 hr for 25 and 5°C storage, respectively, and analyzed at α=1% to be 34.80±4.01 and 176.41±9.89 hr for 25 and 5°C storage, respectively. At the detection times of spoilage odors, the Pseudomonas levels were found to be almost the same, but less than 6-7 log CFU/g generally known as a standard level at occurrence of spoilage odors in beef. This indicated that some other factors than the Pseudomonas reactions could be associated with generation of spoilage odors.
Changes of Aroma Compounds during Kimchi Powder Production and Encapsulation Effect of β-Cyclodextrin
Authors: Eom Hyun-Ju , Yoo Ki-Seon , Yim Chang Youn , Joo Seoungjo , Han Jinhee , Jin Qing , Yoon Hyang-Sik , Han Nam Soo
Published: November 2024

The aim of this study was to investigate the change of volatile aroma compounds in kimchi during fermentation, before and after drying process. Also, the encapsulation effect of cyclodextrin on volatiles during the drying process was examined. GC-MS was used for detection and identification of volatile compounds. During kimchi fermentation, in the early stage, dimethyl sulfide, carbon disulfide were detected as major compounds and after 7 days several sulfur compounds, dimethyl disulfide, methyl 2-propenyl disulfide, allyl methyl sulfide, and di-2-propenyl disulfide bacame the major volatiles. After vacuum-drying, the kimchi powder lost 11 compounds but still retained 13 volatiles of which major compounds were dimethyl sulfide, acetaldehyde and methanethiol. In order to keep volatiles in kimchi powder along with the drying process, 0.25-1.0% cyclodextrin was added in kimchi and dried-kimchi was prepared by using vacuum dryer. Cyclodextrin acted as an encapsulation agent for aroma compounds and it resulted in less loss of volatiles during drying process. Addition of cyclodextrin will permit industry-scale production of dried-kimchi powder with less loss of aroma compounds.
Determination of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Smoked Food Products
Authors: Seo Ilwon , Nam Hejung , Lee Songyoung , Lee Kyueun , Shin Han-Seung
Published: November 2024

This study was accomplished that analysis of seven polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in smoked or nonsmoked processing foods by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with fluorescence detection. The calibration line was constructed with injected different levels of standard concentration. Limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification(LOQ) showed higher linearity (r2=0.998) reasonably, and recovery exhibited 0.033-0.666 μg/ kg, 0.108-2.217 μg/kg and 69.31-90.14%, respectively. As a result, the samples using smoked tuna as smoked materials contained seven PAHs with different range from 0.256 to 0.486 μg/kg. The benzo[a]pyrene, indicator of PAHs, was detected to below the LOQ in two samples. Concentrations of benzo[a]pyrene in three samples were below the 2 μg/kg which is the limit of regulation. Smoked tuna sauces were detected from 0.321 to 0.552 μg/kg and not detected in drying powders. PAHs of smoked meat products were ranged from 0.720 to 2.027 μg/kg and are higher than concentration of tuna smoked samples. PAHs were very low in non-smoked foods including mustard, herb, and roasted meats.
Antioxidant Activity and Quality Characteristics of Soy Milk Mayonnaise Containing Soybean Paste Powder
Authors: Park Hye Duck , Lee Sang Sun
Published: November 2024

In this study, antioxidant activity and quality characteristics of egg yolk mayonnaise and soy milk mayonnaise containing soybean paste powder were assessed. The mayonnaise with egg yolk as an emulsifier is E group according to the amount of soybean paste powder addition of 0% (E1), 3% (E2), 6% (E3) and mayonnaise with soy milk as an emulsifier is S group with soybean paste powder addition of 0% (S1), 3% (S2), 6% (S3). Total phenol content and electron donating ability of mayonnaise were increased as the amount of the soybean paste powder increased. L value of Hunter's color was decreased, but a value and b value were increased as the amount of the soybean paste powder increased. Soy milk mayonnaise showed very low cholesterol content than egg yolk mayonnaise. In sensory evaluation, S2 received the highest scores for flavor, overall taste and preference. Base on these results, soybean paste powder showed significant antioxidant activity in mayonnaise and cholesterol content was successfully decreased in soy milk mayonnaise compared to egg yolk mayonnaise. The soy milk mayonnaise with soybean paste powder will be a possible model to introduce our traditional food to the worldwide food item, such as mayonnaise.
Analysis of Benzo[a]pyrene Content in Edible Oils from Korean Market
Authors: Nam Hejung , Seo Ilwon , Lee Kyueun , Lee Songyoung , Shin Han-Seung
Published: November 2024

Concentrations of benzo[a]pyrene in edible oils from Korean market were evaluated by high performance liquid chromatography. Benzo[a]pyrene known of the carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons(PAHs), has been found at variable concentrations in several foods. This is associated with several factors during the process including contaminated raw materials, exposure of environment, and procedure of process or cooking. The levels of benzo[a]pyrene were ranged from 0.5 to 1.4 μg/kg in virgin olive oil. Benzo[a]pyrene contents in refined and virgin olive oil, sesame oil, soybean oil, corn oil, sunflower oil, safflower oil, and processed oil were 0.6-1.0 μg/kg, 0.9- 1.3 μg/kg, 0.6-3.3 μg/kg, 0.5-1.1 μg/kg, 1.2-1.7 μg/kg, 1.0-2.1 μg/kg, and 1.0-1.4 μg/kg, respectively.
Antioxidant Activity of Vinegars Commercially Available in Korean Markets
Authors: Lee Seon-Mi , Choi Youngmin , Kim Youngwha , Kim Dae-Jung , Lee Junsoo
Published: November 2024

The aim of this study was to determine the antioxidant compounds (polyphenolics and flavonoids) and to evaluate antioxidant activities using 2,2’-azino-bis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) radical scavenging activity and reducing power in 19 vinegar samples. In general, antioxidant activities and antixoidant compounds in drinking vinegars were higher than those in seasoning vinegars. The highest polyphenolic content was found in balsamic vinegar (372.53 mg/100 mL) and also the highest flavonoid contents was in balsamic vinegar (114.40 mg/100 mL). Organic acid content in glacial acetic acid among 19 samples was found in highest amount. There was no relationships between antioxidant compounds/activities and organic acid content in vinegar samples. Therefore, it is assumed that antioxidant activity of vinegars is due to the polyphenolic and/or flavonoid contents of the vinegar samples.
Quality Characteristics of Jochung by Analyzing Traditional Manufacturing Process
Authors: Yang Hye-Jin , Son Ji-Hye , Lee Yang-Soon , Ryu Gi-Hyung
Published: November 2024

The purpose of this study is to establish fundamental research data for quality characteristics of Jochung by analyzing traditional manufacturing process. Two different processed rices (non-glutinous rices cooked by steaming and using an electronic rice cooker) were compared in terms of water solubility index (WSI), water absorption index (WAI), paste viscosity, reducing suger content, solid content, and dextrose equivalent over soaking time. Reducing sugar content increased for the soaked non-glutinous rice, steamed sample and microwaved sample. After 4 hr, the WSI decreased as the soaking time increased. However, there was no significant difference between WAI of the raw non-glutinous rice and the soaked non-glutinous rice. As soaking time increased, paste and breakdown viscosity increased significantly. Rice was prepared by soaking in water for 12 hr followed by the saccharification time (4, 8, or 12 h) for manufacturing Jochung. The solid content and reducing sugar content of the Jochung increased as the soaking time increased. Reducing sugar content and dextrose equivalent of Jochung from steamed rice (cooked hard) were higher than those from microwaved ones. The amount of reducing sugar and dextrose equivalent was highest in Jochung from steamed rice cooked hard (saccarification for 12 hr), with 59.40±0.11% and 76.99±1.78, respectively. In conclusion, the highest quality characteristics were obtained in Jochung manufactured with non-glutinous rice soaked for 12 hr followed by sacharification for 12 hr.