Preferential Pairing Research Articles

Mitogenomic Architecture of Atlantic Emperor Lethrinus atlanticus (Actinopterygii: Spariformes): Insights into the Lineage Diversification in Atlantic Ocean.

The evolutionary history of emperors, particularly in the Atlantic and Indo-West Pacific Oceans, remains largely unmapped. This study explores the maternal lineage evolution of Lethrinids by examining the complete mitogenome of Lethrinus atlanticus, which is endemic to the Eastern Atlantic Ocean. Utilizing advanced next-generation sequencing, we found that the mitogenome spans 16,789 base pairs and encompasses 37 genes, including 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), two ribosomal RNAs, 22 transfer RNAs, and an AT-rich control region (CR). Our analysis indicates a preference for AT base pairs in the L. atlanticus mitogenome (53.10%). Most PCGs begin with the ATG codon, except for COI, which starts with GTG. Relative synonymous codon usage reveals high frequencies for alanine, leucine, proline, serine, and threonine. The ratio of nonsynonymous to synonymous substitutions suggests strong negative selection across all PCGs in Lethrinus species. Most transfer RNAs exhibit typical cloverleaf structures, with the exception of tRNA-serine (GCT), which lacks a dihydrouracil stem. Comparative analysis of conserved sequence blocks across the CRs of three Lethrinus species shows notable differences in length and nucleotide composition. Phylogenetic analysis using concatenated PCGs clearly distinguishes all Lethrinus species, including L. atlanticus, and sheds light on the evolutionary relationships among Spariformes species. The estimated divergence time of approximately 20.67 million years between L. atlanticus and its Indo-West Pacific relatives provides insights into their historical separation and colonization during the late Oligocene. The distribution of Lethrinids may be influenced by ocean currents and ecological factors, potentially leading to their speciation across the Eastern Atlantic and Indo-West Pacific. This study enhances our understanding of the genetic diversity and phylogenetic relationships within Lethrinus species. Further exploration of other emperor fish mitogenomes and comprehensive genomic data could provide vital insights into their genetic makeup, evolutionary history, and environmental adaptability in marine ecosystems globally.

The Color Harmony Estimation Model Construction Based on Two Layers of MLE and BPNN in the Color Matching Field

In the field of art, color matching is widely used in various art designs, such as images, posters, clothing, and interior home design. Among them, harmonious color matching is the decisive factor in whether a design is popular or not. To solve the problem of estimating color harmony, this study analyzes from the perspective of color pairs and uses the two-layer maximum likelihood estimation method to make preliminary predictions of color harmony by statistically modeling paired color preferences in existing datasets. After obtaining the preliminary estimation of color harmony, multiple linear regression is selected for denoising processing. Subsequently, the preliminary prediction results were refined using a backpropagation neural network, extracting various color features in different color spaces, and ultimately obtaining accurate harmony estimates. The results indicate that, compared with existing methods, the proposed method can simulate the aesthetic cognition of different users towards different color themes. Under the same statistical method, the model can maintain good harmony estimation and experimental results. This method can promote the development of related research fields, such as quickly evaluating the color harmony of an image, and one click color changing in scenes such as clothing, home, 3D models, etc. according to different user needs.

Eye-Tracking Methodology to Detect Differences in Attention to Faces Between Developmental Language Disorder and Autism.

Developmental language disorder (DLD) and autism sometimes appear as overlapping conditions in behavioral tests. There is much literature on the visual scanning pattern (VSP) of faces in autistic children, but this is scarce regarding those with DLD. The purpose of this study was to compare the VSP of faces in young children with DLD, those with autism, and typically developing peers, assessing the effect of three variables. Two eye-tracking experiments were designed to assess the effect of the emotion and the poser's gender (Experiment 1) and the poser's age (Experiment 2) on the VSP of participants (Experiment 1: N = 59, age range: 32-74 months; Experiment 2: N = 58, age range: 32-74 months). We operationalized the VSP in terms of attentional orientation, visual preference, and depth of processing of each sort of face. We developed two paired preference tasks in which pairs of images of faces showing different emotions were displayed simultaneously to compete for children's attention. Data analysis revealed two VSP markers common to both disorders: (a) superficial processing of faces and (b) late orientation to angry and child faces. Moreover, one specific marker for each condition was also found: typical preference for child faces in children with DLD versus diminished preference for them in autistic children. Considering the similarities found between children with DLD and those with autism, difficulties of children with DLD in attention to faces have been systematically underestimated. Thus, more effort must be made to identify and respond to the needs of this population. Clinical practice may benefit from the potential of eye-tracking methodology and the analysis of the VSP to assess attention to faces in both conditions. This would also contribute to the improvement of early differential diagnosis in the long run.

Investigation of the preference of marlin Kajikia audax sashimi with different lipid contents through sensory evaluation

Identifying the sensory properties of fish consumers is important for providing their preferred seafood. Odor, flavor, texture, and appearance affected the sensory preference for fish. Moreover, several compounds are involved in sensory preference. This study focused on lipids that affect preference for seafood and examined the lipid content preference in marlin Kajikia audax sashimi. First, lipid contents and fatty acid compositions of different individual sizes and body parts of marlin were compared. Next, the preference for overall, taste, texture, odor, aftertaste, and lipid content in marlin sashimi taken from different parts of the body with different amounts of lipids was investigated using the paired preference method. Then the relationship of lipid content preference with other preferences were also evaluated using the Chi-square test. The crude lipid of big-sized marlin (51.1–55.1 kg) was 9.5%−13.2%, and the crude lipid of small-sized marlin (23.5–30.0 kg) was 0.8%−1.2%. The dorsal parts of big-sized marlin had lipid contents in the anterior parts higher than those in the posterior parts (p < 0.05). Whereas no differences were observed in the fatty acid composition of different body parts. The lipid content preference for the anterior dorsal part (high lipid part) was higher than that for the posterior dorsal part (lower lipid part) (p < 0.05). However, no difference in overall preference was observed. Additionally, the relationship between lipid content preference and other preference were indicated that the high lipid content parts preferred group significantly preferred the high lipid content parts at overall and taste evaluation (p < 0.01). On the other hand, the low lipid content parts preferred groups showed opposite evaluation. Therefore, the lipid content was associated with the preference for marlin sashimi and be classified into two groups: one prefers high lipid sashimi and the other prefers low lipid sashimi.

Exploring food and beverage pairing from a cross-cultural projective mapping

Culture is a well-known driver of food choices, and therefore, it could also impact food pairing preferences. Food pairing has been studied from different approaches; however, little cross-cultural research has been done. This work explored food and beverage pairing using projective mapping (PM) to create maps of food-beverage combinations. Four countries (Mexico, Argentina, France, and Norway), thirty foods, and six beverages were selected. PM was carried out through an online study in each country. Participants were asked to map foods together with beverages following the instruction that foods and beverages closer together represented a good combination. The coordinates of each product were analyzed through Multiple Factorial Analyses (MFA) by countries. The first four factors of each MFA were used to perform RV coefficients to test similarities in food-beverage pairings between the countries. Finally, a k-means clustering was performed on the beverage coordinates of each MFA. PM provided maps representing food and beverage pairings for each country in which the proximity between food-beverages represented a good combination according to consumers. RV coefficients between countries were low, showing that food-beverage pairings were not similar across countries, evidencing the cultural effect in food-drink combinations. Results from the k-means clustering showed some similarities and differences between countries. In general, the food-beverage pairing was effectively explored with PM, from which several differences and similarities were found within cultures.

Virtual pair programming and online oral exams: effects on social interaction, performance, and academic integrity in a remote computer programming course

ABSTRACT Background and context Pair programming and oral exams were deployed in tandem in a remote undergraduate computer programming course to promote social interaction and enhance learning. Objectives We investigate their impact on social interactions, sense of connection, academic performance, and academic integrity within a virtual learning environment, and explore the dynamics of student collaboration in the context of voluntary pair programming. Method Students’ coding activities, pairing preferences, and performance were survey responses were recorded and analyized. Findings First and second year students were more likely to participate in virtual pair programming than their more senior classmates. Willingness to pair program strongly correlated with GPA. Partner changes were infrequent. 20–40% of students pair programmed per assignment. Oral exam scores positively correlated with other course scores. Surveys indicated that virtual pair programming and oral exams positively impacted learning, sense of community, and academic integrity. Implications The study offers perspectives on how these practices can be leveraged to foster inclusive learning, meaningful discourse, peer collaboration, and student-faculty relationships, with a positive effect on student motivation and academic integrity.

Frequency and Comparison of Personality Types of Pre-Medical and First-Year Medical Students in Choosing Medicine as a Career Choice and its Association with the Education System and Socioeconomic Status

Frequency and Comparison of Personality Types of Pre-Medical and First-Year Medical Students in Choosing Medicine as a Career Choice and its Association with the Education System and Socioeconomic Status

Exploring the Convergence of Artificial Intelligence in Gastronomy: Enhancements in Food and Wine Pairing, Production, and Consumer Preferences Through AI-driven Technologies

The convergence of artificial intelligence (AI) with the culinary world represents a dynamic and evolving intersection, offering innovative solutions to enhance various aspects of gastronomy. This abstract encapsulates the key findings and insights from a comprehensive study investigating the implications of AI integration in gastronomy, focusing on food and wine pairing, production optimization, and consumer preferences. Qualitative data is collected through interviews with industry experts, chefs, and consumers, as well as observational research in gastronomic settings. These methods provide rich insights into the experiences, perspectives, and behaviors related to AI-driven technologies in gastronomy. Additionally, quantitative data is obtained through surveys distributed to food enthusiasts, restaurant-goers, and professionals in the food and beverage industry, enabling the analysis of attitudes, preferences, and behaviors towards AI integration. The findings reveal significant advancements facilitated by AI in food and wine pairing, production efficiency, and consumer interactions. AI-driven algorithms analyze vast datasets of flavor profiles, ingredient compositions, and consumer preferences to recommend optimal food and wine pairings tailored to individual tastes and preferences. In food production, AI optimizes supply chain management, predicts demand fluctuations, and reduces food wastage through predictive analytics and IoT sensors. Furthermore, AI-driven recommender systems personalize recommendations for consumers, enhancing their dining and shopping experiences. This abstract highlights the relevance and implications of AI convergence in gastronomy, emphasizing its potential to revolutionize culinary practices and cater to evolving consumer demands.

Понятийный аппарат и практика оценки и контроля налоговых рисков субъектов предпринимательства в условиях изменчивости налоговой среды

Tax risks are situations in which an enterprise may face loss or damage related to taxation as a result of incorrect application of tax rules, incorrect interpretation of legislation or other circumstances that may lead to negative financial consequences. Enterprises often suffer losses either due to tax due to the accountant's ignorance of tax legislation, or due to the excessive riskiness of the accountant's decision-making and subsequent accrual of penalties, fines, additional payments and even litigation. However, methodological foundations and methodological apparatus for assessing tax risks of business entities have not yet been fully studied. It is accurately proved that study of tax risks classification contributes to more accurate accounting, analysis and management of financial risks of an enterprise, as well as helps to comply with laws and regulations, which is a key factor for successful and sustainable operation of any company. There is an extensive classification of tax risks according to different principles: by type of tax risk, by the source of occurrence (by risk determining factors), according to the time of occurrence, according to the amount of possible losses, according to the type of tax risks consequences, according to the object of connection with other types of risks, according to the nature of consequences, according to the possibility to overcome, and according to the level of probability of tax risks occurrence. Tax risk assessment is an important and integral part of the enterprises tax management in the Russian Federation. This process allows business entities identifying and analyzing potential threats and negative consequences related to taxation, and develop strategies to minimize and manage them. The purpose of the study is to analyze tax risks which enterprises in the Russian Federation face and to develop methods and recommendations for their assessment and management in order to ensure financial stability and compliance with tax legislation. The methodology of the study is formed of standardized methods to assess the degree of compliance of the enterprise tax practice with applicable laws and standards. Empirical methods, in particular the analysis of statistical data, and case studies are used. As a result, the key factors influencing tax risks occurrence are highlighted. Modern methods of assessing tax risks matrix are summarized and practice of applying of tax risk analysis matrix and matrix of paired preferences of tax risks is presented. Ways to minimize tax risks were proposed using the example of LLC Krasnaya Polyana Agro-Industrial Complex, and a scheme of its tax risk control system was proposed. The results of tax risk assessment serve the basis for the development of tax strategies and risk management processes. Enterprises can minimize tax risks by optimizing the tax strategy proposed by the authors, creating reserves and constantly monitoring tax environment changes.

Attention toward Social and Non-Social Stimuli in Preschool Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Paired Preference Eye-Tracking Study.

Different dimensions of visual attention to social (human faces) and non-social stimuli (objects) were assessed in 19 preschool children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and 19 typically developing (TD) age, gender, and IQ-matched controls through an original paired preference eye-tracking paradigm. The present study found a significantly reduced attentional bias toward human faces in children with ASD compared to TD controls. The analysis of the total fixation time showed a significantly reduced preference for faces in children with ASD compared to TD children. Moreover, while TD children showed a significant preference for the face over the object, children in the ASD group observed the two paired pictures for a similar amount of time, thus showing no preference. Besides, children with ASD paid significantly more sustained attention to the objects than TD children. Children in the TD group paid greater sustained attention to the faces over the objects, while children in the ASD group did not differentiate between objects and faces. Finally, an age effect was found in ASD, as younger children in the group tended to prefer objects and to show more sustained attention towards them. Overall, these findings add to the literature on anomalies in attention toward social and non-social stimuli in young children with ASD compared to their TD counterparts. These results are discussed in the light of previous studies and suggest possible directions for future research.

Defining autopolyploidy: Cytology, genetics, and taxonomy.

Autopolyploidy is taxonomically defined as the presence of more than two copies of each genome within an organism or species, where the genomes present must all originate within the same species. Alternatively, "genetic" or "cytological" autopolyploidy is defined by polysomic inheritance: random pairing and segregation of the four (or more) homologous chromosomes present, with no preferential pairing partners. In this review, we provide an overview of methods used to categorize species as taxonomic and cytological autopolyploids, including both modern and obsolete cytological methods, marker-segregation-based and genomics methods. Subsequently, we also investigated how frequently polysomic inheritance has been reliably documented in autopolyploids. Pure or predominantly polysomic inheritance was documented in 39 of 43 putative autopolyploid species where inheritance data was available (91%) and in seven of eight synthetic autopolyploids, with several cases of more mixed inheritance within species. We found no clear cases of autopolyploids with disomic inheritance, which was likely a function of our search methodology. Interestingly, we found seven species with purely polysomic inheritance and another five species with partial or predominant polysomic inheritance that appear to be taxonomic allopolyploids. Our results suggest that observations of polysomic inheritance can lead to relabeling of taxonomically allopolyploid species as autopolyploid and highlight the need for further cytogenetic and genomic investigation into polyploid origins and inheritance types.

Inheritance pattern of tetraploids pummelo, mandarin, and their interspecific hybrid sour orange is highly influenced by their phylogenomic structure.

Citrus polyploidy is associated with a wide range of morphological, genetic, and physiological changes that are often advantageous for breeding. Citrus triploid hybrids are very interesting as new seedless varieties. However, tetraploid rootstocks promote adaptation to different abiotic stresses and promote resilience. Triploid and tetraploid hybrids can be obtained through sexual hybridizations using tetraploid parents (2x × 4x, 4x × 2x, or 4x × 4x), but more knowledge is needed about the inheritance pattern of tetraploid parents to optimize the efficiency of triploid varieties and tetraploid rootstock breeding strategies. In this work, we have analyzed the inheritance pattern of three tetraploid genotypes: 'Chandler' pummelo (Citrus maxima) and 'Cleopatra' mandarin (Citrus reticulata), which represent two clear examples of autotetraploid plants constituted by the genome of a single species, and the 'Sevillano' sour orange, which is an allotetraploid interspecific hybrid between C. maxima and C. reticulata. Polymorphic simple sequence repeat (SSR) and single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers were used to estimate parental heterozygosity restitution, and allele frequencies for centromeric loci were used to calculate the preferential pairing rate related to the proportion of disomic and tetrasomic segregation. The tetraploid pummelo and mandarin displayed tetrasomic segregation. Sour orange evidenced a clear intermediate inheritance for five of the nine chromosomes (1, 2, 5, 7, and 8), a slight tendency toward tetrasomic inheritance on chromosome 3, and intermediate inheritance with a tendency toward disomy for chromosomes 4, 6, and 9. These results indicate that the interspecific versus intraspecific phylogenomic origin affects preferential pairing and, therefore, the inheritance patterns. Despite its high level of heterozygosity, the important preferential chromosome pairing observed in sour orange results in a limited diversity of the genotypic variability of its diploid gametes, and consequently, a large part of the genetic value of the original diploid sour orange is transferred to the tetraploid progenies.

The development and consumer acceptance of goat meat burger patties and sausages among young adults in Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa

Although goat meat is a nutritious and sustainable Animal Food Source (AFS), it is not commonly preferred as an AFS in sub-Saharan Africa even though goats thrive in the region. To explore the potential of promoting goat meat consumption among young adults in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, an experimental study was conducted involving the development, nutrient analysis and microbial testing of two goat meat products through a series of recipe development trials. This study aimed to use food processing techniques to improve the sensory qualities of goat meat (texture and aroma) in value-added products. Goat meat patties and sausages were developed and evaluated for consumer acceptance using Check-All-That-Apply (CATA) food action rating scale and paired preference testing (n=100). Results from the nutrient analysis showed that both the patty (31.57g/100g) and the sausage (26.88g/100g) were high in protein. The total fat content for each sample was less than 10g per 100g portion.The coliform counts for both samples were very low and well within the acceptable range. The yeast and mould counts were very low, and total bacterial counts were low and within an acceptable range. The CATA test revealed the most frequently selected term used to describe the sensory attributes were ‘smoky’ for aroma (82%, 55%), ‘brownish-grey’ for appearance (68%, 80%), ‘meaty’ for flavour (92%, 86%), and ‘tender’ for texture (59%, 51%) for the goat meat patty and sausage, respectively. Participants showed a more positive attitude towards purchasing and consuming the goat meat patty (96%) than the goat meat sausage (88%). Both products received positive sensory feedback. However, the majority of the participants preferred the goat meat patty (66%) over the sausage (34%). The findings suggest that promoting goat meat consumption in South Africa can be achieved through the introduction of value-added convenience products like the goat meat patties and sausages developed in this study. Key words: Goat meat, goat meat patty, sausages, young adults, consumer acceptance

Метод косвенных предпочтений формирования весов критериев с многоуровневой структурой

The method of forming criterion weights in tasks of multi-criteria evaluation of objects with a multi-level structure of indicators presented in the form of a hierarchical tree, is shown. The weights values are calculated on the basis of indi-rect measurement of preferences of adjacent pairs of local weights of criteria included in the vertices of a higher level of the hierarchical tree, in the form of expert assessments in the quantitative scale of relations. The calculation of quantitative weights first comes down to lexicographic sorting by descending order of criteria importance at each level of the hierarchy that are included in the vertices of a higher level, as a result of which the number of expert compari-sons of adjacent pairs in the scale of relations is reduced. The formation of local coefficients of the criteria importance is mathematically justified and is based on a matrix with special properties. A comparative analysis of the proposed method for forming quantitative weights with the method of hierarchy analysis, the least squares method and the ap-proximation matrix method based on the matrix of paired comparisons, is given. An example is given of solving the problem of multi-criteria evaluation of combat aircraft that participated in the tender, according to the tactical and technical characteristics presented in various measurement scales.

Food texture preferences in early childhood: Insights from 3–6 years old children and parents

Rejection of specific food textures in young children can be a significant barrier to establishing healthy eating habits. However, the literature on texture preferences in children under seven is sparse, partially due to a lack of suitable test tools for this age range. This study aims to investigate texture preferences in 3 to 6-year-old children and their parents and identify factors that could influence children’s preferences. Children (n = 235) completed a forced-choice questionnaire based on pictographic drawings of 14 pairs of foods differing in hardness (hard versus soft) or particle content (with-particle versus no-particle). Parents completed the same questionnaire and provided information on their feeding practices and children’s eating behaviors. To assess the questionnaire’s validity, children performed a paired preference test using actual food stimuli corresponding to 6 food pairs in the questionnaire. Results showed that children preferred foods without particles, and such preference was associated with food neophobia. Children did not show distinct preferences for foods differing in hardness, but older children preferred soft foods more than younger children. Texture preferences significantly differed between parents and children, with a low concordance between parent–child dyads (49–55 %). Parental restrictive feeding was associated with children’s rejection of particles in foods, whereas children’s experience with different textures was associated with preferences for foods containing particles. Moreover, the questionnaire showed agreement with children’s preferences measured using actual foods, and the validity increased with age. This study demonstrated that young children’s texture preferences follow developmental trends and depend on the eating environment.

PSIII-6 Impact of Aromatic Palatants on Equine Feeding Preferences

Abstract Although flavored palatants are commonly utilized in feed manufacturing, few data were available regarding the impact of aromatics on equine feeding preferences. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of aromatic palatants on feeding behaviors of lactating mares and nursing foals. Four quarter horse mare and nursing foal pairs were used in this paired preference test. Horses were group-housed with ad libitum access to pasture (cool season grass/legume mix), water and mineral salt. Pairings were tested for four consecutive days, with eighteen days off between each testing series, for a total trial of ten-weeks. Testing occurred from 1630-1730 h each day. Treatments were offered in false bottom pans constructed with twenty-four equally spaced openings (0.19 cm) and one (0.48 cm) central opening to allow odor permeation. Aromatic treatments, in powdered form (anise, apple, and peppermint), were placed within single use plastic containers nested underneath the feeding pans. Feed pans were spaced two inches apart and affixed to a flat, wooden platform with treatment location changed daily. Video was recorded and analyzed for first treatment investigated, consumed, and finished of pairs. Further analysis investigated the time spent consuming treatments and voluntary consumption of foals. Statistical analysis was performed (SAS for Academics, 2014, Cary, NC, USA) with significance set at 5%. The aromatic treatments utilized in this study yielded similar selective actions of mares for first investigated (P = 0.8472), consumed (P = 0.8472), and finished (P = 0.8166). Similarly, foal actions for first investigated (P = 0.5206), consumed (P = 0.5206), or finished (P = 0.1650) were not affected by aromatic treatments. There was a significant relationship between mare and foal first aromatic treatments investigated (P = 0.0415; R2 = -0.262) and consumed (P = 0.0415; R2 = -0.262) suggesting that different treatments were selected between the pairs (Table 6.2). A strong relationship was observed for first investigated and first consumed aromatic treatments of mares (P < 0.0001; R2 = 1.00). However, foals were found to remain with the first investigated aromatic treatment for first consumed (P < 0.0001; R2 = 1.00) and first finished treatments (P < 0.0001; R2 = 1.00). The mean voluntary consumption of concentrate was unaffected by treatment (P = 0.6646) and no period effect was observed (P = 0.1854). Mean time spent consuming was also unaffected by treatments (P = 0.1003) with no period effect observed (P = 0.4903). Despite no differences in the amount consumed, there was a greater time spent consuming peppermint treatments (257.97 ± 103.03 seconds) compared with that of anise (148.85 ± 84.09 seconds) and apple treatments (139.23 ± 77.00 seconds).

In paired preference tests, domestic chicks innately choose the colour green over red, and the shape of a frog over a sphere when both stimuli are green

Many animals express unlearned colour preferences that depend on the context in which signals are encountered. These colour biases may have evolved in response to the signalling system to which they relate. For example, many aposematic animals advertise their unprofitability with red warning signals. Predators’ innate biases against these warning colours have been suggested as one of the potential explanations for the initial evolution of aposematism. It is unclear, however, whether unlearned colour preferences reported in a number of species is truly an innate behaviour or whether it is based on prior experience. We tested the spontaneous colour and shape preferences of dark-hatched, unfed, and visually naive domestic chicks (Gallus gallus). In four experiments, we presented chicks with a choice between either red (a colour typically associated with warning patterns) or green (a colour associated with palatable cryptic prey), volume-matched spheres (representing a generalised fruit shape) or frogs (representing an aposematic animal’s shape). Chicks innately preferred green stimuli and avoided red. Chicks also preferred the shape of a frog over a sphere when both stimuli were green. However, no preference for frogs over spheres was present when stimuli were red. Male chicks that experienced a bitter taste of quinine immediately before the preference test showed a higher preference for green frog-shaped stimuli. Our results suggest that newly hatched chicks innately integrate colour and shape cues during decision making, and that this can be augmented by other sensory experiences. Innate and experience-based behaviour could confer a fitness advantage to novel aposematic prey, and favour the initial evolution of conspicuous colouration.

Evaluating two iterations of a paired stimulus preference assessment

AbstractThe paired stimulus preference assessment (PSPA) is commonly used in both research and practice. However, two iterations have been described: a single‐presentation arrangement in which each tested stimulus is paired with one another once and a double‐presentation arrangement in which each tested stimulus is paired twice with counterbalanced placement. Each arrangement may have different advantages; however, no direct comparison exists. Thus, the purpose of the current study was to conduct both PSPA iterations to determine whether there are differences in the results obtained and which iteration was most efficient regarding time to administer. Seven participants were included, and results demonstrated high degrees of correspondence across preference assessment formats. The average time to administer the single‐presentation PSPA (M =6.6 min) was almost half the time to administer a double‐presentation PSPA (M =12.9 min), and no significant differences were observed for problem behavior, side biases, or latency to stimulus selection.

When Does Milk Spoil? The Use of Rejection Threshold Methodology to Investigate the Influence of Total Microbial Numbers on the Acceptability of Fresh Chilled Pasteurised Milk

The consumer rejection threshold (RjT) method was applied to determine the total microbial numbers (TMNs) where consumers find that the quality of whole fresh chilled pasteurised milk (WFCPM) and skim milk (Trim) stored at 4.5 ± 0.5 °C is no longer acceptable. Food spoilage progression was supported by measurements of VOCs and the terms consumers used to describe the ageing fresh chilled pasteurised milk (FCPM). RjTs for TMN of 7.43 and 7.34 log10 CFU.mL−1 for WFCPM and Trim, respectively were derived using Hill’s equation from a series of paired preference tests comparing fresh and aged milks (3–26 days) assessed by consumers (WFCPM, n = 55; Trim, n = 52). A poor relationship between storage time and TMN was found, owing mainly to batch-to-batch and within-batch variation in the milk’s post-pasteurization contamination (PPC) levels. At the RjT, there was a significant change in the signal intensities for a number of spoilage-related VOCs that occurred in the FCPM headspace (p ≤ 0.05), which were measured using proton transfer reaction–mass spectrometry (PTR-MS), including m/z 33, 45, 47, 61, 63, 69, 71, 87, and 89, tentatively identified as methanol; acetaldehyde; ethanol; acetate (acetic acid and acetate esters); dimethyl sulphide (DMS); isoprene, furan, and aldehydes; 2-butanone; and pentanal and butyrates (butyric acid and butyrate esters), respectively. Consumers described the milks at TMN greater than the RjTs using terms like off, expired, sour, spoilt or rancid. This multidisciplinary study has provided data on the importance of PPC and subsequent increases in TMN on VOCs associated with FCPM and consumer’s preferences and highlighted the value of measuring a range of variables when investigating consumer’s perception of food quality and shelf-life.

A network model for multiple selection questions in opinion surveys

Opinion surveys can contain closed questions to which respondents can give multiple answers. We propose to model these data as networks in which vertices are the eligible items and arcs are the respondents. This representation opens up the possibility of using complex networks methodologies to retrieve information and most prominently, the possibility of using clustering/community detection techniques to reduce data complexity. We will take advantage of the implicit null hypothesis of the modularity function, namely, that items are chosen without any preferential pairing, to show how the hypothesis can be tested through the usual calculation of p-values. We illustrate the methodology with an application to Eurobarometer data. There, a question about national concerns can receive up to two selections. We will show that community clustering groups together concerns that can be interpreted in a consistent way and in general terms, such as Economy, or Security or Welfare issues. Moreover, we will show how different society groups are worried by different class of items.