bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of in-person and telepractice-based extended Lee Silverman Voice Treatment LOUD® on dysarthria and dysphagia in adults with cerebral palsy
Authors: Kim Kyung Min , Park Sang Ah , Hwang Seong Hye , Park Alyssia , Kim Hyang Hee , Hwang Jihye , Cho Sung-Rae
Published: January 2025

Objective

With advancements in digital health technologies, telepractice has become crucial for providing accessible medical interventions. Cerebral palsy (CP) frequently results in comorbidities including dysarthria and dysphagia, leading to restrictions in activities. This study evaluates the efficacy of both in-person and telepractice-based intensive voice therapy in improving speech, swallowing functions, and related quality of life measures in adults with CP.

Methods

The Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT) LOUD®, a speech-behavior therapy, was administered to 16 CP subjects (9 men and 7 women; mean age = 43.4 ± 10.43 years) via in-person extended version of LSVT LOUD® (LSVT-X), and telepractice program of LSVT-X (LSVT-X e-LOUD®). Outcomes, including maximum phonation time (MPT), voice intensity, diadochokinetic rate (DDK), Voice Handicap Index (VHI), swallowing quality of life (SWAL-QOL), and Videofluoroscopic Dysphagia Scale (VDS), were assessed pre- and post-treatment.

Results

Significant improvements were noted in speech functions: MPT ( p = 0.006), voice intensity ( p = 0.004), DDK /puh/ ( p = 0.043), and DDK/puh-tuh-kuh/ ( p = 0.031). Swallowing function improved significantly in the pharyngeal phase on the VDS. Quality of life measures showed improvement in physical ( p = 0.003), emotional ( p = 0.000), total score of VHI ( p = 0.001), fear ( p = 0.031), sleep ( p = 0.013), fatigue ( p = 0.003), and total score of SWAL-QOL ( p = 0.019). These improvements were consistent in both LSVT-X and LSVT-X e-LOUD® groups.

Conclusions

Both in-person and telepractice-based LSVT-X enhance speech, swallowing functions, and quality of life in adults with CP. LSVT-X e-LOUD® can be utilized as a digital therapeutic intervention for dysphagia and dysarthria, offering accessible and flexible treatment options aligned with digital health advancements.
Validity of a smartphone application for self-monitoring psychiatric symptoms in patients with schizophrenia
Authors: Kim Sung-Wan , Kim Jae-Kyeong , Jhon Min , Kim Ju-Wan , Ryu Seunghyong , Lee Ju-Yeon , Kim Jae-Min
Published: January 2025

Objective

Despite increasing research on digital technologies for psychiatric disorders, studies specifically examining self-monitoring of symptoms with smartphone applications by patients with schizophrenia remain limited. This study aims to evaluate the validity and reliability of self-monitoring psychiatric symptoms using a smartphone application among patients with schizophrenia at Mindlink, a community-based early intervention center.

Methods

Fifty-three young patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders participated. They rated their psychiatric symptoms across five domains—delusions, hallucinations, anxiety, depression, and perceived stress—using an 11-point Likert scale at baseline, 1 week, 8 weeks, and 16 weeks. Test–retest reliability was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) between baseline and 1-week ratings. Concurrent validity was determined by correlating app-based ratings with established self-report and clinician-administered scales, including the Eppendorf Schizophrenia Inventory, Hamilton Program for Schizophrenia Voices Questionnaire, Beck Depression Inventory, Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7, and Perceived Stress Scale. The accuracy of the app's depression rating was assessed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis.

Results

ICCs for test–retest reliability were high across all symptom domains, ranging from 0.741 to 0.876 ( p < 0.001). Significant correlations were observed between app-based ratings and formal assessments at all time points. ROC analysis for single-item self-ratings using the app yielded an area under the curve of 0.829 ( p = 0.002), indicating good accuracy.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that self-monitoring of key symptoms and stress using a smartphone application is valid and reliable for patients with schizophrenia. These findings support the app's potential to enhance symptom management and enable early detection of relapse in this population.
Truth Default or Generalized Skepticism? The Role of Overconfidence in the Relationship Between Social Media News Use and Traditional Media Use
Authors: Kang Taewoo , Thorson Kjerstin , Pak Chankyung
Published: January 2025

This article examines a model positing that overconfidence in political understanding resulting from social media use for news and politics hampers traditional media use. It confirms a positive relationship between Facebook political information experiences and overconfidence in political understanding. However, contrary to expectations, there is a positive relationship between overconfidence and traditional media use. An exploratory post hoc analysis, viewed through the lens of truth vs. false-default orientations, suggests overconfident users might use traditional news outlets to confirm their sense of knowledge, thereby exhibiting a false-default orientation on social media political information.
Evaluating the Effectiveness of Parent Training Pamphlets: An Intervention Study Among Parents at Child Health Checkups
Authors: Akutsu Kazuko , Goto Aya , Abo-Rass Fareeda , Yokoyama Hiroyuki
Published: January 2025

Introduction:

Parent training (PT) programs are recognized as effective interventions that enhance parenting techniques and improve the parent-child relationship. In Japan, these programs are increasingly implemented to help parents manage behavioral issues in children. This study evaluated the effectiveness of PT pamphlets designed and distributed in Shioya Town, Japan, by comparing outcomes between the intervention and control groups and within subgroups of parents, categorized based on their children’s need for follow-up health checkups.

Methods:

The study included an intervention group that received PT pamphlets during their 1.5-year health checkups and a control group that did not. Data were collected through self-administered questionnaires at the 3.5-year health checkups, assessing adherence to 3 recommended parenting techniques. The analysis focused on comparing intervention and control groups, evaluating adherence to 2 recommended parenting techniques versus one or none. The study also analyzed adherence to each recommended parenting technique within subgroups of parents whose children needed follow-up health checkups and those whose children did not.

Results:

The study included 114 participants, with 55 in the intervention group and 59 in the control group. Analysis revealed that 29.1% of the intervention group adhered to 2 recommended parenting techniques, compared with 24.6% in the control group. However, no significant differences were observed between the intervention and control groups in adherence to 2 recommended techniques versus one or none, or to any single technique among the 3. Subgroup analyses revealed significant differences in adherence among parents whose children were identified to have developmental concerns at the 1.5-year health checkup and were required to have follow-up checkups, specifically in the “avoid immediate reactions” approach between intervention and control groups.

Conclusions:

The PT pamphlets effectively increased adherence to recommended parenting techniques in the intervention group among children requiring follow-ups. This underscores the importance of culturally adapted PT programs and demonstrates the potential of simple educational interventions in improving parenting styles.
Bullying in Private Schools: Can Training Middle School Students to Intervene Reduce Bullying Perpetration and Victimization?
Authors: Midgett Aida , Peck Matt , Doumas Diana M.
Published: January 2025

We implemented and examined the effectiveness of a brief, bullying bystander intervention (STAC) among middle school students ( N = 79) enrolled in a private school using a single-group, pre-/post-test design. Results indicated that students reported significant increases in bullying knowledge, STAC strategy knowledge, and confidence intervening in bullying situations. Students also reported using the STAC strategies post-training. Finally, students reported decreases in bullying victimization and perpetration. We discuss implications for school counselors in private school settings.
Cybersecurity Infrastructure Compliance Key Factors to Detect and Mitigate Malware Attacks in SMEs: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Ali Adnan Bin Amanat , Ayyasamy Ramesh Kumar , Akbar Rehan , Jebna Abdulkarim Kanaan , Adnan Kiran
Published: January 2025

Malwares are growing exponentially and are becoming challenging with time, especially for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). As the backbone of a nation’s economy, SMEs face challenges due to limited knowledge, awareness, and resource constraints. These hurdles hinder their adoption of existing frameworks and policies. Existing studies do not explore vulnerabilities within SMEs regarding their effective compliance with the cybersecurity infrastructure to mitigate malware attacks. This research is conducted through a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) using the PRISMA framework. Through this systematic inquiry, we have successfully identified the vulnerabilities and mitigation factors to deal with malware attacks. This SLR uncovers the vulnerabilities, emphasizing non-compliance with cybersecurity infrastructure. To confront these vulnerabilities, a mapping framework using concept maps is proposed. The study contributes to enhancing SMEs’ awareness about the consequences of non-compliance with cybersecurity infrastructure and equipping them with effective measures for vulnerability management.
The Influence of Domestic Players on the Success in National and International Competitions in Football
Authors: Varmus Michal , Boško Pavol , Adámik Roman , Toman Dominika , Elkhwesky Zakaria
Published: January 2025

Sport is an integral part of modern people’s lives. However, it is also an important business area requiring specific management approaches. This article focuses on the issues of sports management and human capital. The main goal was to analyse the influence of domestic and foreign athletes playing football in teams in the best national leagues on the success in national and international competitions (UEFA Euro, FIFA World Cup). The analysis was based on panel data from five selected countries (England, Germany, Italy, Spain, and France) in the seasons from 2009/10 to 2018/19. The research sample included 980 football teams. The hypotheses were focused on the impact of the percentage of domestic and foreign athletes and their presence in the matches on the success of the clubs and teams in the selected competitions. These were tested using a statistical algorithm including the Pooled linear regression model, Fixed effects models, Random effects models, and the ANOVA test. Main findings confirmed that if there is an effort to have more domestic players on the rosters, this has a positive effect on the success in the national league. They also revealed that the clubs and teams use the proportion of domestic and foreign athletes and their deployment in the matches as a crucial decision within the human capital management. The study draws the conclusion that clubs and associations should create opportunities for the domestic athletes in the matches to support their growth with positive effects on sport success, national pride, and fans’ satisfaction.

JEL Classification: C12, Z2, L83, O52, O15, C23.
Practice patterns and outcomes of conventional versus split-dose cisplatin in neoadjuvant ddMVAC in bladder cancer
Authors: Callihan Eryn B , Kuna Elizabeth Molina , Eule Corbin J , Kessler Elizabeth R , Flaig Thomas W
Published: January 2025

Background

The practice patterns and efficacy of ddMVAC administered with split-dose cisplatin for patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) remains largely undefined.

Objective

To characterize the application and overall survival (OS) in patients with MIBC receiving conventional ddMVAC versus split-dosed ddMVAC and to examine the predictive variables in those receiving split-dosed cisplatin.

Methods

Using data from the CancerLinQ Discovery database, we identified 626 patients with bladder cancer between 2000–2023 with receipt of ddMVAC. The primary outcome was OS by receipt of split-dose versus conventional ddMVAC. A secondary outcome of interest assessed predictors of receipt of split-dose ddMVAC. Use of split-dose versus conventional ddMVAC was compared using chi-square tests. Univariate and multivariable OS were estimated using Cox proportional hazards models. Predictors of receipt of split dose versus conventional ddMVAC were estimated using logistic regression models.

Results

Most patients with MIBC are treated with standard dose ddMVAC. In multivariate analysis, no statistically significant difference in OS was observed between split-dose and conventional ddMVAC (HR 1.3, CI 0.78–2.18, p = 0.316). We demonstrate a notable decline in the use of split-dose cisplatin over time. Baseline GFR and performance status were not predictors of split-dosing in this cohort.

Conclusions

Most patients with MIBC received conventional ddMVAC with decreasing frequency of split-dose cisplatin use over time. We did not observe a difference in OS between patients with MIBC who received standard versus split-dose cisplatin.
Evolving racial/ethnic disparities in AML survival in the novel therapy era
Authors: Wang Xin , Gimotty Phyllis A. , Matthews Andrew H. , Mamtani Ronac , Luger Selina M. , Hexner Elizabeth O. , Babushok Daria V. , McCurdy Shannon R. , Frey Noelle V. , Bruno Ximena Jordan , Gill Saar , Martin Mary Ellen , Paralkar Vikram R. , Maillard Ivan , Porter David L. , Loren Alison W. , Perl Alexander E. , Pratz Keith W. , Getz Kelly D. , Lai Catherine
Published: January 2025

Little is known about the impact of recent advances in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) treatment on racial/ethnic disparities in survival outcomes. We performed a retrospective cohort study of patients with newly diagnosed AML using data from a nationwide electronic health record–derived deidentified database. Patients were categorized based on their diagnosis date relative to venetoclax approval, as pre–novel therapy era (Pre era; 2014-2018; n = 2998) or post–novel therapy era (Post era; 2019-2022; n = 2098). Patients in the Post era were older and had more comorbidities than Pre era. Non-Hispanic Black (NHB) and Hispanic patients were younger and more likely to have lower socioeconomic status than non-Hispanic White (NHW) patients, with no differences in the distributions of key disease features. After accounting for age and comorbidity, overall survival (OS) was higher in patients in Post era than Pre era (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 0.90; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.83-0.96). In Pre era, NHB had a 22% higher hazard of death than NHW (aHR, 1.22; 95% CI, 1.04-1.43), whereas worse OS was not observed for NHB in Post era (aHR, 0.86; 95% CI, 0.69-1.08; predicted 2-year survival, 45.3% vs 39.9%). Utilization of novel therapeutics in frontline therapy did not differ by race/ethnicity. Among patients receiving venetoclax-based induction, particularly those without TP53, RAS, or FLT3-ITD mutations, results suggested higher OS for NHB than NHW patients (aHR, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.45-1.01). Additional studies are needed to elucidate factors contributing to these observed survival differences and to inform strategies to optimize outcomes for all patients with AML.
Wasted ventilation in mild COPD: protocol for a clinical physiology and functional imaging study
Authors: James Matthew D. , Voskrebenzev Andreas , Klimes Filip , Zanette Brandon , Alosta Karam , Hijleh Abed A. , Vincent Sandra G. , Domnik Nicolle J , Phillips Devin B. , Pourafkari Marina , Wang Chu-Yi , Girardi Michele , Ferguson Carrie , Kirby Miranda , Santyr Giles , Stringer William , Porszasz Janos , O'Donnell Denis E , Vogel-Claussen Jens , Neder J Alberto
Published: January 2025

Background

High ventilation (VE)-CO2output (VCO2), signaling increased wasted ventilation in the physiological dead space (VDphys), has a dominant role in eliciting activity-related dyspnoea in subjects with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) showing only mild airflow obstruction. Exposing the mechanisms driving wasted ventilation is key to advancing the field towards new therapeutic approaches to improve dyspnoea and exercise tolerance in this growing patient sub-population.

Study's central hypothesis

Increased areas of high alveolar ventilation (VA)/capillary perfusion (Qc) due to impaired Qcin non-emphysematous, non-air trapping areas of the lungs add to any underlying emphysema to increase wasted ventilation and exertional dyspnoea in mild COPD.

Methods

Forty patients (20 women) showing post-bronchodilator FEV1≥70% predicted and 20 sex- and age-matched controls will perform constant load exercise tests in a flutter-kicking device in the physiology laboratory and, in another visit, in a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) facility. Volumetric capnography will be used to breath-by-breath quantify rest and exercise VDphys. Free-breathing, non-contrast proton MRI (phase-resolved functional lung (PREFUL)) VA, Qc, and VA/Qc,maps will be co-registered to emphysema and air trapping severity and distribution as established by computed tomography (parametric response mapping).

Study implications

Confirmation of the study's main hypothesis will provide the first evidence that increased wasted ventilation in dyspneic patients with mild COPD is not a mere consequence of emphysematous destruction being also reflective of impaired perfusion across apparently preserved lung tissue. This will set the stage for subsequent interventional studies geared to address this potentially treatable disease trait.
Oropharyngeal enlargement in obstructive lung disease: quantification and machine learning
Authors: Abdolijomoor Asma , Lee David H. , Kim So Ri , Ju Park Seoung , Yong Jin Gong , Hoffman Eric A. , Castro Mario , Hyun Lee Chang , Choi Jiwoong , Ju Chae Kum
Published: January 2025

Background

While lower airway remodeling of obstructive lung diseases (OLDs), such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), is comprehensively studied, the understanding of upper airway remodeling in OLD remains limited. This study aimed to investigate upper airway dimensions in OLD patients using quantitative computed tomography (QCT) imaging and to identify relevant parameters for predicting OLD using machine learning techniques.

Methods

A prospective cohort of 26 healthy controls, 73 COPD patients, and 86 asthma patients underwent upper airway CT scans from the oral cavity to the subglottal region. Multiscale lung structure and function were assessed using ITK-SNAP and in-house qCT software. Feature importance estimation methods from STREAMLINE were utilized to select potentially relevant upper airway metrics. The Wilcoxon rank-sum test and Pearson's correlation were employed for pairwise comparisons and correlation analysis, respectively. The Youden index was used to determine optimal cutoff values of relevant upper airway features.

Results

After standardizing QCT results, OLD patients exhibited greater mouth-to-supraglottal metrics, notably greater oral space air fraction and pharyngeal length. Both metrics showed a negative correlation with FEV1/FVC (R=-0.24, p=0.001). Feature importance analysis identified oral space air fraction and normalized pharyngeal length as key features discriminating OLD from healthy controls. An oral space air fraction value of 0.8 or higher predicted OLD with approximately 100% sensitivity and 69% specificity.

Conclusions

Quantitative upper airway CT measurement combined with machine learning analysis revealed oropharyngeal enlargement in patients with obstructive lung disease.
Resistive breathing aggravates cigarette smoke-induced pulmonary inflammation
Authors: Mizi Eleftheria , Vassilakopoulou Vyronia , Chatzianastasiou Athanasia , Georgiadis Theocharis , Glynos Constantinos , Theocharis Stamatios , Vassilakopoulos Theodoros , Toumpanakis Dimitrios
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Resistive breathing (RB) is the hallmark of diseases of airway obstruction, especially during exacerbations, resulting in significant mechanical stress on the lung. RB induces pulmonary inflammation and injury in previously healthy animals. Whether RB exerts additional injurious effects when superimposed on cigarette smoke (CS) exposure is unknown.

Methods

Adult mice were exposed to CS for one or six months, followed by RB for 24 h, induced through tracheal banding. Subsequently, respiratory system mechanics were assessed, bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) was performed, and cytokine levels were measured by ELISA in lung tissue samples. Surfactant protein D (SP-D) was measured in blood and BAL and histology was performed. Emphysema was quantified by the mean linear intercept (Lm) and the destructive index (Di).

Results

CS exposure, for 1 and 6 months, increased BAL cellularity (∼8-fold and ∼1.9-fold to air, respectively, p<0.01). RB aggravated BAL cellularity at both time points (p=0.025 and p=0.002 to CS) and increased MCP-1 levels at 1 month (p=0.002 to ctr). Histology revealed augmented focal membrane thickening at 1 month following combination of RB with CS exposure (p=0.011), while at 6 months emphysema was more severe after RB in CS-exposed mice (p=0.001 to CS for both Lm and Di). CS increased SP-D levels in BAL (p<0.01 at both time points), while RB caused increased levels in blood (p<0.01 to CS). RB decreased static compliance at 1 month of air exposure (p=0.007).

Conclusion

Combining resistive breathing with cigarette smoke exposure results in augmented inflammatory responses, increased lung injury and augmented emphysema.
Proteins associated with preserved ratio impaired spirometry (PRISm)
Authors: Lindberg Eva , Zhou Xingwu , Behndig Annelie F , Caidahl Kenneth , Egesten Arne , Engström Gunnar , Engvall Jan E , Eriksson Maria J , Fall Tove , Gummesson Anders , Hamrefors Viktor , Janson Christer , Johnsson Åse , Lindberg Anne , Mannila Maria , Nyström Fredrik H , Olin Anna-Carin , Sköld C. Magnus , Söderberg Stefan , Tanash Hanan , Torén Kjell , Östgren Carl Johan , Malinovschi Andrei , Blomberg Anders
Published: January 2025

Background

Preserved ratio impaired spirometry (PRISm) is a spirometry pattern of interest regarding incident airflow obstruction and higher mortality risk. We applied a proteomic approach to gain more insight into the biological mechanisms associated with PRISm.

Methods

From the population-based Swedish CArdioPulmonary bioImage Study (SCAPIS), participants in Main (n=4835) and Pilot (n=1054) studies, were included as discovery and replication cohorts. Lower limit of normal (LLN) of post-bronchodilator FEV1, FVC and FEV1/FVC was defined as 5th percentile in healthy, never-smoking SCAPIS participants. Participants were sub-divided into five groups; Reference: FEV1/FVC≥LLN & FEV1≥LLN & FVC≥LLN (n=4084); Mild chronic airflow limitation (CAL): FEV1/FVC<LLN & FEV1≥LLN (n=278), Moderate-severe CAL: FEV1/FVC<LLN & FEV1<LLN (n=170); Restrictive spirometric pattern (RSP): FEV1/FVC ≥LLN & FVC<LLN (n=238) and PRISm: FEV1/FVC≥LLN & FEV1<LLN (n=238). Proximity extension assays were used to measure 168 proteins. The associations of each standardized protein were assessed with each study group by multiple linear regression models, adjusting for age, sex, BMI, smoking, physical activity, study centers, and corrected for multiple testing to control for false discovery rate at 5%.

Results

Eight proteins were associated with PRISm and replicated: Tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily member 10A, Interleukin-6, Paraoxonase 3 (negative association), Renin, Urokinase plasminogen activator surface receptor (U-PAR), E-selectin, Matrix metalloproteinase 7 and Chitinase-3-like protein 1. Interleukin-6 and U-PAR were also associated with Moderate-severe CAL and E-selectin with RSP. In addition, five other proteins were associated with Moderate-severe CAL and three with RSP.

Conclusion

Protein profile in PRISm differs from other spirometric patterns suggesting specific disease mechanisms.
Digital Pathology–Based Multimodal Artificial Intelligence Scores and Outcomes in a Randomized Phase III Trial in Men With Nonmetastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer
Authors: Feng Felix Y. , Smith Matthew R. , Saad Fred , Mobadersany Pooya , Tian Shaozhou K. , Yip Stephen S.F. , Greshock Joel , Khan Najat , Yu Margaret K. , McCarthy Sharon , Brookman-May Sabine D. , Bourla Ariel B. , Todorovic Tamara , Yamashita Rikiya , Huang Huei-Chung , Royce Trevor J. , Showalter Timothy N. , Griffin Jacqueline , Mitani Akinori , Esteva Andre , Small Eric J.
Published: January 2025

PURPOSE

The SPARTAN trial demonstrated that the addition of apalutamide to androgen deprivation therapy improves outcomes among patients with nonmetastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (nmCRPC). We applied a previously reported digital histopathology–based multimodal artificial intelligence (MMAI) algorithm to estimate clinical outcomes in SPARTAN.

METHODS

Patients with available hematoxylin and eosin-stained slides from the primary tumor were included. Histopathology slides were digitized. MMAI scores ranging from 0 to 1 were generated from digital histopathology and baseline clinical parameters. Patients were categorized into MMAI non–high-risk and high-risk groups using previously validated cutoffs. Kaplan-Meier estimates were calculated for metastasis-free survival (MFS), second progression-free survival (PFS2), and overall survival (OS); comparisons were performed using Cox proportional hazards regression for treatment arms and MMAI risk. The interaction between treatment arm and risk group was evaluated using a Cox proportional hazards model.

RESULTS

The study included 420 evaluable patients after excluding those with missing clinical data or inadequate histopathology images. Of these, 63% (n = 266) were MMAI high risk and 37% (n = 154) were non–high risk. MMAI risk score was associated with shorter MFS (hazard ratio [HR], 1.72;
P
< .005), PFS2 (HR, 1.57;
P
< .005), and OS (HR, 1.41;
P
= .02). MMAI high-risk patients receiving apalutamide demonstrated significant improvement in MFS (HR, 0.19;
P
< .005), PFS2 (HR, 0.47;
P
< .005), and OS (HR, 0.6;
P
= .01). The interaction between MMAI risk score and treatment for MFS (
P
= .01) and PFS2 (
P
= .03) was significant, indicating greater benefit from apalutamide treatment in MMAI high-risk patients.

CONCLUSION

MMAI is a prognostic marker in nmCRPC and may serve as a predictive biomarker with high-risk patients deriving the greatest benefit from treatment with apalutamide. These results represent the first extension of an MMAI classifier to patients with castration-resistant prostate cancer, warranting additional validation.
Adrenocorticotropin-Secreting Pure Adrenal Ganglioneuroma Leading to Cushing Syndrome
Authors: Alban Daniel , Verma Parisa , Kirschenbaum Alexander , Fernandez-Ranvier Gustavo , Levine Alice C
Published: January 2025

Adrenal ganglioneuromas (AGNs) are rare benign neoplasms of neural crest origin that are typically asymptomatic and endocrinologically inactive. However, on occasion, AGNs have been noted to demonstrate secretion of various hormones. We present a case of a 23-year-old man who presented with hypertension and clinical symptoms concerning for a catecholamine excess state with evidence of a right adrenal mass with elevated Hounsfield units (HU) on abdominal computed tomography (CT) and laboratory values consistent with mild hypercortisolism concerning for adrenocorticotropin (ACTH)-producing pheochromocytoma leading to Cushing syndrome (CS). The patient underwent adrenalectomy with pathology results demonstrating a pure AGN with positive ACTH staining. While secretory AGNs are rare, it is important that providers remain cognizant of this pathology and consider it within the evaluation of adrenal lesions at large with an understanding that clinical presentation may be difficult to interpret and will likely vary based on the underlying hormone(s) being secreted. Additionally, secretory AGNs can mimic other adrenal neoplasms and histopathologic evaluation is required for definitive diagnosis. This case demonstrates how ACTH-producing AGNs should be considered when evaluating cases of ACTH-dependent CS.
The influence of habitat complexity on otolith morphology and sensory capacities in Nile tilapia: A controlled experimental approach
Authors: van Damme Arthur , Emmanuelle Huet , Bruno Frédérich , Eric Parmentier
Published: January 2025

The inner ear of teleost fishes is known to serve both auditory and vestibular functions. Many studies have compared otoliths from different species and attempted to understand the observed differences within the light of environmental factors. However, experimental data on how otoliths could adapt are scarce. This study explores the relationship between environmental structural complexity and otolith morphology, and its effects on auditory and vestibular functions in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Using a controlled design, fishes of the same brood were distributed between a control tank and a tank equipped with suspended chains, only increasing the structural complexity. After a period of five months, we monitored auditory sensitivity and compared otolith morphology of both groups. Auditory capacities were measured using Auditory Evoked Potential (AEP) technique whereas otolith morphology was assessed through classical and geometric morphometrics. Tilapias raised in complex environments developed sagittae with increased length, thickness, area and volume. However, auditory sensitivity was consistent across both groups, suggesting that the morphological changes solely affected vestibular function. These findings support otolith morphology can adapt to fish surrounding environment, here to improve balance and manoeuvrability in complex settings. This reaffirms otolith sagittae not only support hearing but fulfil multiple roles to cope with environmental challenges. This also constitutes an indirect first demonstration of the sagitta's involvement in the vestibular function. Together with significant morphological changes, the similar auditory capabilities across groups underscore the complexity of defining functional roles within the inner ear and reaffirm the mixed function hypothesis, challenging the association between the observed variation and inner ear specific functions.
The Long-Run Effects of California’s Paid Family Leave Act on Women’s Careers and Childbearing: New Evidence from a Regression Discontinuity Design and US Tax Data
Authors: Bailey Martha , Byker Tanya , Patel Elena , Ramnath Shanthi
Published: January 2025

We use administrative tax data to analyze the cumulative, long-run effects of California’s 2004 Paid Family Leave Act (CPFL) on women’s employment, earnings, and childbearing. A regression-discontinuity design exploits the sharp increase in the weeks of paid leave available under the law. We find no evidence that CPFL increased employment, boosted earnings, or encouraged childbearing, suggesting that CPFL had little effect on the gender pay gap or child penalty. For first-time mothers, we find that CPFL reduced employment and earnings a decade after they gave birth. (JEL H24, J13, J16, J31, J32, K31)
Clean Identification? The Effects of the Clean Air Act on Air Pollution, Exposure Disparities, and House Prices
Authors: Sager Lutz , Singer Gregor
Published: January 2025

We assess the US Clean Air Act standards for fine particulate matter (PM2.5). Using high-resolution data, we find that the 2005 regulation reduced PM2.5 levels by 0.4 μg/m3 over five years, with larger effects in more polluted areas. Standard difference-in-differences overstates these effects by a factor of three because time trends differ by baseline pollution, a bias we overcome with three alternative approaches. We show that the regulation contributed to narrowing Urban-Rural and Black-White PM2.5 exposure disparities, but less than difference-in-differences suggest. Pollution damages capitalized into house prices, however, appear larger than previously thought when leveraging regulatory variation. (JEL D63, K32, Q52, Q53, Q58, R31)
My Taxes Are Too Darn High: Why Do Households Protest Their Taxes?
Authors: Nathan Brad , Perez-Truglia Ricardo , Zentner Alejandro
Published: January 2025

In the United States and globally, taxpayers can file a protest to legally reduce their property taxes. While tax protests can provide a unique opportunity to study the (un)willingness to pay taxes, they have received little attention from researchers. Using a field experiment and a quasi-experiment, we study what motivates households to protest their property taxes. We find that both expected savings and filing frictions play significant roles. We estimate the magnitude of filing frictions using a money metric. We also discuss how low-cost interventions targeted at disadvantaged groups can mitigate existing disparities in the system of tax appeals. (JEL C93, D91, G51, H71)
Έκθεση Πισσαρίδη. Μία ολοκληρωμένη πρόταση αναβάθμισης της ελληνικής εκπαίδευσης ως θεμέλιο για μια βιώσιμη οικονομική ανάπτυξη
Authors: Τάμπας Δημήτριος
Published: January 2025

Η έκθεση Πισσαρίδη αποτελεί ένα πλήρες σχέδιο ανάπτυξης για την ελληνική οικονομία, δίνοντας προτεραιότητα σε μεταρρυθμίσεις με επίκεντρο την εκπαίδευση. Προσεγγίζει τα διαρθρωτικά προβλήματα που προέκυψαν μετά την οικονομική κρίση και προτείνει στρατηγικές βιώσιμης ανάπτυξης. Το ελληνικό εκπαιδευτικό σύστημα παρουσιάζεται ως συγκεντρωτικό, με ανάγκη αυτονομίας και επενδύσεων, ενώ υπογραμμίζεται η ανάγκη για ψηφιακή αναβάθμιση και υποδομές. Μεταξύ των προτεινόμενων μέτρων είναι η μεγαλύτερη αυτονομία και αποκέντρωση στα σχολεία, η ενίσχυση της αξιολόγησης, η βελτίωση της εκπαίδευσης εκπαιδευτικών, η αναμόρφωση προγραμμάτων σπουδών και η επέκταση του ολοήμερου σχολείου. Στην τριτοβάθμια εκπαίδευση, προτείνονται μέτρα για αυτονομία, νέες διοικητικές δομές, φοιτητοκεντρική μάθηση, και σύνδεση με την αγορά εργασίας. Η κριτική εφαρμογή των προτάσεων επισημαίνει κινδύνους όπως η πιθανή αναποτελεσματικότητα, ενώ τονίζεται η ανάγκη διασφάλισης αντικειμενικής αξιολόγησης. Συνολικά, η έκθεση αναγνωρίζει τον κεντρικό ρόλο της εκπαίδευσης στην ανάπτυξη, απαιτώντας ευελιξία για την αντιμετώπιση προκλήσεων.
Publisher preferences for a journal transparency tool: A modified three-round Delphi study
Authors: Ng Jeremy Y. , Liu Henry , Masood Mehvish , Farin Rubaina , Messih Mireille , Perez Amaya , Aalbersberg IJsbrand Jan , Alperin Juan , Bryson Gregory L. , Chen Qiuxia , Ehrlich Alan , Iorio Alfonso , Meester Wim J. N. , Willinsky John , Grudniewicz Agnes , Cobo Erik , Cranston Imogen , Cress Phaedra Eve , Gunn Julia , Haynes R. Brian , Keenoo Bibi Sumera , Marušić Ana , Papas Eleanor-Rose , Purvis Alan , Segundo João de Deus Barreto , Shankar Pathiyil Ravi , Stoev Pavel , Weisflog Josephine , Winker Margaret , Cobey Kelly D. , Moher David
Published: January 2025

Background We propose the creation of a journal transparency tool (JTT), which will allow users to obtain information about a given scholarly journal’s operations and policies. We are obtaining preferences from different stakeholders to inform the development of this tool. This study aimed to identify the publishing community’s preferences for the JTT. Methods We conducted a modified three-round Delphi survey. Representatives from publishing houses and journal publishers were recruited through purposeful and snowball sampling. The first two Delphi rounds involved an online survey with items about JTT metrics and user features. During the third round, participants discussed and voted on JTT metric items that did not reach consensus after round 2 within a virtual consensus meeting. We defined consensus as 80% agreement to include or exclude an item in the JTT. Results Eighty-six participants completed the round 1 survey, and 43 participants (50% of round 1) completed the round 2 survey. In both rounds, respondents voted on JTT user feature and JTT metric item preferences and answered open-ended survey questions regarding the JTT. In round 3, a total of 21 participants discussed and voted on JTT metric items that did not reach consensus after round 2 during an online consensus group meeting. Fifteen out of 30 JTT metric items and none of the four JTT user feature items reached the 80% consensus threshold after all rounds of voting. Analysis of the round 3 online consensus group transcript resulted in two themes: ‘factors impacting support for JTT metrics’ and ‘suggestions for user clarity.’ Conclusions Participants suggested that the publishing community’s primary concerns for a JTT are to ensure that the tool is relevant, user-friendly, accessible, and equitable. The outcomes of this research will contribute to developing and refining the tool in accordance with publishing preferences.
Barriers to women’s employment in the transport sector in Europe
Authors: Woodcock Andree , Roseanu Stefan , Constantin Isolda , Damboianu Christiana
Published: January 2025

The H2020 TinnGO (Transport and Innovation Gender Observatory) project (https://www.tinngo.eu/) addressed gender inequality in mobility patterns, education, and employment in the transport sector. The European transport sector has around 22% of female transport workers – making it one of the most traditional, male dominated, and change resistant sectors. This paper provides 1) a contemporary picture of women’s work experiences in the transport sector in 10 socially and economically divergent counties in the European Union (i.e. United Kingdom, Germany, France, Sweden, Italy, Spain, Romania, Portugal, Baltic Countries, Greece); and 2) recommendations on how to reduce gender inequalities. Data was collected using desk top research, surveys and follow up interviews and case studies with successful women and female entrepreneurs. Results triangulated well. Persistent themes emerged relevant to women’s underrepresentation in certain transport-related jobs and their over representation in support and administrative functions. The surveys revealed key barriers such as misogynistic attitudes, male dominated hierarchies, recruitment bias, reluctance to acknowledge a woman’s role and contributions, gender pay gap, male – dominated professional networks and the gender ’glass ceiling.’ Follow up case studies explored the strategies ‘successful’ women had used to overcome these. The number of women employed in transport is slowly rising despite very real gender inequalities in employment. Although some countries have developed frameworks for encouraging women into STEM careers, mentorship schemes and networks, the results show that these are not enough to reduce the persistent gender inequalities, harassment and stereotyping women are subjected to on a daily basis. Concrete recommendations are provided by our ‘distinguished entrepreneurs’ on ways in which the quality of working life for women can be improved.
An overview of civic engagement tools for rural communities
Authors: Martinez-Gil Jorge , Pichler Mario , Lechat Noemi , Lentini Gianluca , Cvar Nina , Trilar Jure , Bucchiarone Antonio , Marconi Annapaola
Published: January 2025

In this research, we explore the role of civic engagement platforms as tools designed to connect various groups in rural areas for collaborative advancement and to support sustainable growth in their communities. We examine these platforms’ essential features and influence on rural communities, conducting an overview to identify rural areas’ primary challenges and the functionalities needed to address them. Our findings reveal that the long-term capability of these civic engagement platforms can bring beneficial changes in rural territories by offering a unified way of communication, collaboration, and decision-making. The study concludes with suggestions for future research.
Southern European entrepreneurship engine: A model for deep tech commercialization and sustainable growth
Authors: Barbosa Cláudia , Oliveira Cátia , Simões Cristina , Spyroglou Odysseas , Koumpis Adamantios , Kouvelis Spyridon , Deligianni Christina , Vilarinho Pedro M.
Published: January 2025

The European Innovation Scoreboard (EIS) evaluates the research and innovation performance of EU Member States, categorizing them into four innovation groups. Southern European countries, except for Cyprus, fall into the two lower performing categories: moderate and emerging innovators. To close this innovation gap Southern European countries need a targeted approach to increase the efficiency in translating R&D outputs into social and economic value. The Southern European Entrepreneurship Engine (S3E), an EU-funded initiative, proposes an approach to bridge this gap by focusing on nurturing early-stage R&D projects with commercialization potential and accelerating deep tech start-ups. The project employs a three-tiered approach targeting different stages of development: (i) early-stage R&D projects seeking market alignment, (ii) growth-stage startups needing robust business plans and funding networks, and (iii) scaling startups and SMEs requiring corporate partnerships for market access. This case study presents the S3E project, its methodology, impact, and lessons learned, aligning with sustainability goals and EU strategic objectives.
A Manager and an AI Walk into a Bar: Does ChatGPT Make Biased Decisions Like We Do?
Authors: Chen Yang , Kirshner Samuel N. , Ovchinnikov Anton , Andiappan Meena , Jenkin Tracy
Published: January 2025

Problem definition: Large language models (LLMs) are being increasingly leveraged in business and consumer decision-making processes. Because LLMs learn from human data and feedback, which can be biased, determining whether LLMs exhibit human-like behavioral decision biases (e.g., base-rate neglect, risk aversion, confirmation bias, etc.) is crucial prior to implementing LLMs into decision-making contexts and workflows. To understand this, we examine 18 common human biases that are important in operations management (OM) using the dominant LLM, ChatGPT. Methodology/results: We perform experiments where GPT-3.5 and GPT-4 act as participants to test these biases using vignettes adapted from the literature (“standard context”) and variants reframed in inventory and general OM contexts. In almost half of the experiments, Generative Pre-trained Transformer (GPT) mirrors human biases, diverging from prototypical human responses in the remaining experiments. We also observe that GPT models have a notable level of consistency between the standard and OM-specific experiments as well as across temporal versions of the GPT-3.5 model. Our comparative analysis between GPT-3.5 and GPT-4 reveals a dual-edged progression of GPT’s decision making, wherein GPT-4 advances in decision-making accuracy for problems with well-defined mathematical solutions while simultaneously displaying increased behavioral biases for preference-based problems. Managerial implications: First, our results highlight that managers will obtain the greatest benefits from deploying GPT to workflows leveraging established formulas. Second, that GPT displayed a high level of response consistency across the standard, inventory, and non-inventory operational contexts provides optimism that LLMs can offer reliable support even when details of the decision and problem contexts change. Third, although selecting between models, like GPT-3.5 and GPT-4, represents a trade-off in cost and performance, our results suggest that managers should invest in higher-performing models, particularly for solving problems with objective solutions.

Funding: This work was supported by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada [Grant SSHRC 430-2019-00505]. The authors also gratefully acknowledge the Smith School of Business at Queen’s University for providing funding to support Y. Chen’s postdoctoral appointment.

Supplemental Material: The online appendix is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/msom.2023.0279 .
Yŏm Sŭngik(廉承益) and Healing through the Conception of the Baoqieyin Dhāraṇī-Maṇḍala Image in the Late Goryeo Dynasty
Authors: LIM Young-ae
Published: January 2025

Yŏm Sŭngik (廉承益) was a ch’ongshin (寵臣) or court favorite of the late Goryeo dynasty who was recognized for his ability to cure diseases using dhār ī and subsequently appointed prime minister of the country. Yŏm’s quick ascension to such a distinguished post attests to the great significance of dhāraṇī among the people of Goryeo. Memorizing dhāraṇī as a way to obtain one’s desire was a preexisting concept in the Silla period. However, unlike their predecessors, the people of Goryeo preferred the Baoqieyin Dhāraṇī (寶篋印陀羅尼, Precious Casket Seal Dhāraṇī) over the Mugujŏnggwang Taedaranigyŏng (無垢淨光大陀羅尼 經, The Great Dhāraṇī Sutra) as they believed the former text to be a more concise and effective vehicle for serving their needs.In this article I propose that Yŏm Sŭngik used his understanding of the period’s spiritual and religious beliefs to combine the Baoqieyin Dhāraṇī with the maṇḍala of Esoteric Buddhism to create a new iconographic image in 1276. Sixteen years later in 1292, Yŏm supplemented the original image with spells from the Baoqieyin Dhāraṇī and added other details such as the name of the image’s creator as well as the place and date of production. In this new version of the dhāraṇī-maṇḍala image, the various mantras from Baoqieyin Dhāraṇī are arranged in a circle that is imbued with the power of dhāraṇī and its therapeutic potency. The center of the circle is a maṇḍala composed an eight-petaled lotus as well as the thirty-seven deities symbolizing the birth and source of life. In this way, Yŏm condensed the essential components of Buddhist ideology that most appealed to believers to create a modified dhāraṇī-maṇḍala image that was produced in great quantities and distributed throughout Goryeo.Both the 1276 and 1292 versions of Yŏm’s dhāraṇī-maṇḍala discovered in Buddhist sculpture. However, only the latter image continued to be made after the Goryeo dynasty. One example of the second version was found stamped on a silk chŏgori discovered in the Wooden Seated Child Mañjuśrī statue of Sangwŏnsa Temple in P’yŏngch’ang. Created in 1466, the Mañjuśrī statue was an important commission by the royal court. Thus, the stamped image of Yŏm’s 1292 dhāraṇī-maṇḍala in this example of Buddhist sculpture demonstrates the influence and relevance of a new iconography that had persisted well into the Joseon dynasty.The dhāraṇī-maṇḍala image conceived by Yŏm Sŭngik in 1292 was worn or kept on the body in the belief that this act alone protected the wearer from affliction. Known as “an old man who practiced thaumaturgy by memorizing spells,” Yŏm created the dhāraṇī-maṇḍala as an iconographic instrument that would cure any sickness that might plague the bearer. Perhaps most importantly, the new dhāraṇī-maṇḍala image was accessible to all as both a convenient and affordable means of healing. Lastly, Yŏm’s dhāraṇī-maṇḍala was also incorporated into the garments of bodhisattva and Buddha statues, which served to amplify their divine powers of dhāraṇī.