Significant Preference Research Articles

Manipulated ants: inducing loyalty to sugar feeders with an alkaloid.

Wood ants are promising biocontrol agents in fruit plantations because they prey on pest insects and inhibit plant diseases. However, these ants also attend plant-feeding homopterans to harvest their honeydew secretions, thereby increasing their numbers. This problem can be solved by offering ants alternative sugar sources that are more attractive than honeydew. From natural interactions, it is known that some species manipulate mutualistic partners toward loyalty by adding alkaloids to the food they offer their mutualists. Inspired by this, the addition of alkaloids might be used to make ants loyal to artificial sugar feeders and thus used to reduce populations of ant-farmed homopterans in ant-mediated biological control. We aimed to explore whether wood ants (Formica polyctena) would develop a taste preference for morphine-containing sugar solutions in two-choice laboratory tests. After having fed on a morphine/sugar solution for 1 week, ants showed a significant preference for morphine solutions compared with equal concentration sugar solutions without morphine. Furthermore, ants lost this preference after 6-9 days on a morphine-free diet. The results show that wood ants react to morphine in their food, enabling chemical manipulation of their behavior, most likely through a taste preference. Thus, ants are susceptible to manipulation by mutualistic partners in natural interactions and furthermore may be manipulated artificially in biocontrol programs to avoid ant-mediated build-up of homopteran populations. © 2024 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

Tissue Usage Preference and Intrinsically Disordered Region Remodeling of Alternative Splicing Derived Proteoforms in the Heart.

A computational analysis of mass spectrometry data was performed to uncover alternative splicing derived protein variants across chambers of the human heart. Evidence for 216 non-canonical isoforms was apparent in the atrium and the ventricle, including 52 isoforms not documented on SwissProt and recovered using an RNA sequencing derived database. Among non-canonical isoforms, 29 show signs of regulation based on statistically significant preferences in tissue usage, including a ventricular enriched protein isoform of tensin-1 (TNS1) and an atrium-enriched PDZ and LIM Domain 3 (PDLIM3) isoform 2 (PDLIM3-2/ALP-H). Examined variant regions that differ between alternative and canonical isoforms are highly enriched with intrinsically disordered regions. Moreover, over two-thirds of such regions are predicted to function in protein binding and RNA binding. The analysis here lends further credence to the notion that alternative splicing diversifies the proteome by rewiring intrinsically disordered regions, which are increasingly recognized to play important roles in the generation of biological function from protein sequences.

Comparative Analysis and Phylogenetic Study of Dawkinsia filamentosa and Pethia nigrofasciata Mitochondrial Genomes.

Smiliogastrinae are recognized for their high nutritional and ornamental value. In this study, we employed high-throughput sequencing technology to acquire the complete mitochondrial genome sequences of Dawkinsia filamentosa and Pethia nigrofasciata. The gene composition and arrangement order in these species were similar to those of typical vertebrates, comprising 13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNA genes, 2 rRNA genes, and 1 non-coding region. The mitochondrial genomes of D. filamentosa and P. nigrofasciata measure 16,598 and 16,948 bp, respectively. Both D. filamentosa and P. nigrofasciata exhibit a significant preference for AT bases and an anti-G bias. Notably, the AT and GC skew values of the ND6 gene fluctuated markedly, suggesting that the selection and mutation pressures on this gene may differ from those affecting other genes. Phylogenetic analysis, based on the complete mitochondrial genomes of 23 Cyprinidae fishes, revealed that D. filamentosa is closely related to the sister group comprising Dawkinsia denisonii and Sahyadria chalakkudiensis. Similarly, P. nigrofasciata forms a sister group with Pethia ticto and Pethia stoliczkana.

(111) Penile Constriction Device Satisfaction: Does Sexual Preference Have Any Effect on Preferences and Effectiveness?

Abstract Introduction Penile constriction devices are a noninvasive way to improve sexual performance and erectile function, making them an appealing choice for men. To understand their clinical value and patient satisfaction, it is important to assess patient preferences and the efficacy of different devices. Comparative studies between heterosexual and homosexual men are also necessary to recognize and meet the diverse needs and experiences of these populations, leading to more tailored and effective recommendations. Objective To assess and compare the preference and effectiveness of two medical-grade penile constriction devices between heterosexual and homosexual men. Methods Between May 2023 and July 2023, males were recruited via social media platforms and prospectively enrolled into an IRB-approved, randomized, questionnaire-based study. Upon enrollment, the participants completed the Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM) and Androgen Deficiency in Aging Males (ADAM). Participants were then randomized to which device (FirmTech vs by Giddy) they would receive first and were instructed to use the device twice either during masturbation or intercourse within a two-week timeframe. Once utilized, the participants completed a 17-question, five-point Likert scale device satisfaction questionnaire. Once the first device and survey were completed the other device was sent and the process was repeated. In the device satisfaction questionnaire, lower numbers indicated more positive responses to the questions. We then took the data collected and matched 2 homosexual participants to 1 heterosexual participant by age. Responses from the questionnaire with numerical values are presented as the mean difference (MD) and analyzed using a paired t-test. Questionnaire responses that were “yes” or “no” were analyzed using McNemar’s chi-square analysis. A p-value less than 0.05 was considered significant. Results Fifty men were enrolled and 44 completed the study. After matching the patients by age, 21 were included in the analysis. Among the 21 participants, 14 (66.7%) were homosexual and 7 (33.3%) heterosexual. There was no statistically significant preference or effectiveness amongst the heterosexual group for either device. However when comparing both devices within the homosexual group, 11 (78.6%)) would recommend the FirmTech to a friend, compared to 5 (35.7%) who would recommend the Eddie by Giddy device (p=0.0412). Within the homosexual group, they preferred the ease of putting on the device while flaccid and erect and its comfort (MDs -1.14, -1.79, and-1.50; respective p-values 0.0019, 0.0010, and 0.0160). Homosexual participants also had a significantly better overall impression of the FirmTech device (MD=-0.79; p=0.0099). Lastly, the homosexual participants were significantly more likely to use the FirmTech device in partnered sex as compared to the Giddy (MD=-01.36, p=0.0038). Conclusions These findings suggest that homosexual men favor the FirmTech device over the Eddie by Giddy, rating it more positively and being more likely to recommend it to a friend. Further research with a larger and more diverse sample is needed to fully comprehend the different preferences and satisfaction with penile constriction devices among men with different sexual orientations. Disclosure Yes, this is sponsored by industry/sponsor: FirmTech Clarification: Industry initiated, executed and funded study Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: FirmTech.

The psychomotor, reinforcing, and discriminative stimulus effects of synthetic cathinone mexedrone in male mice and rats

The chronic use of the novel synthetic cathinone mexedrone, like other psychoactive drugs, can be considered addictive, with a high potential for abuse and the ability to cause psychological dependence in certain users. However, little is known about the neurobehavioral effects of mexedrone in association with its potential for abuse. We investigated the abuse potential for mexedrone abuse through multiple behavioral tests. In addition, serotonin transporter (SERT) levels were measured in the synaptosome of the dorsal striatum, and serotonin (5-HT) levels were measured in the dorsal striatum of acute mexedreone (50 mg/kg)-treated mice. To clarify the neuropharmacological mechanisms underlying the locomotor response of mexedrone, the 5-HT2A receptor antagonist M100907 (0.5 or 1.0 mg/kg) was administered prior to the acute injection of mexedrone in the locomotor activity experiment in mice. Mexedrone (10–50 mg/kg) produced a significant place preference in mice and mexedrone (0.1–0.5 mg/kg/infusion) maintained self-administration behavior in rats in a dose-dependent manner. In the drug discrimination experiment, mexedrone (5.6–32 mg/kg) was fully substituted for the discriminative stimulus effects of cocaine in rats. Mexedrone increased locomotor activity, and these effects were reversed by pretreatment with M100907. Acute mexedrone significantly increased c-Fos expression in the dorsal striatum and decreased SERT levels in the synaptosome of the dorsal striatum of mice, resulting in an elevation of 5-HT levels. Taken together, our results provide the possibility that mexedrone has abuse potential, which might be mediated, at least in part, by the activation of the serotonergic system in the dorsal striatum.

Effect of Phase Encoding Direction on Image Quality in Single-Shot EPI Diffusion-Weighted Imaging of the Breast.

In breast diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), distortion and physiologic artifacts affect clinical interpretation. Image quality can be optimized by addressing the effect of phase encoding (PE) direction on these artifacts. To compare distortion artifacts in breast DWI acquired with different PE directions and polarities, and to discuss their clinical implications. Prospective. Eleven healthy volunteers (median age: 47 years old; range: 22-74 years old) and a breast phantom. Single-shot echo planar DWI and three-dimensional fast gradient echo sequences at 3 T. All DWI data were acquired with left-right, right-left, posterior-anterior, and anterior-posterior PE directions. In phantom data, displacement magnitude was evaluated by comparing the location of landmarks in anatomical and DWI images. Three breast radiologists (5, 17, and 23 years of experience) assessed the presence or absence of physiologic artifacts in volunteers' DWI datasets and indicated their PE-direction preference. Analysis of variance with post-hoc tests were used to assess differences in displacement magnitude across DWI datasets and observers. A binomial test and a chi-squared test were used to evaluateif each in vivo DWI dataset had an equal probability (25%) of being preferred by radiologists. Inter-reader agreement was evaluated using Gwet's AC1 agreement coefficient. A P-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. In the phantom study, median displacement was the significantly largest in posterior-anterior data. While the displacement in the anterior-posterior and left-right data were equivalent (P = 0.545). In the in vivo data, there were no physiological artifacts observed in any dataset, regardless of PE direction. In the reader study, there was a significant preference for the posterior-anterior datasets which were selected 94% of the time. There was good agreement between readers (0.936). This study showed the impact of PE direction on distortion artifacts in breast DWI. In healthy volunteers, the posterior-to-anterior PE direction was preferred by readers. 2 TECHNICAL EFFICACY: Stage 1.

Impact of language familiarity on abstract pattern recognition in 9- to 12-month-old infants

Previous studies found an impact of language familiarity on face recognition in 9- and 12-month-olds. Own race faces are better recognized when associated with native language, whereas for other race faces, it is with non-native language. The aim of this study is to investigate if language familiarity can also influence abstract pattern recognition. We tested 9- to 12-month-old monolingual infants with a visual paired-comparison task. During a 30-s familiarization phase, infants were shown an image of abstract patterns associated with an auditory soundtrack of a speaker reciting a story either in their native (French) or in a non-native language (German). After the familiarization, the familiar and a new abstract pattern were displayed side by side for the recognition test. We found a significant preference for the novel object in the native language condition but not in the non-native condition. These results suggest that language familiarity effects on infant memory are not specific to faces but also influence, on a larger scale, how infants process their immediate visual environment.

Amnesty of capital in Russia: from the post-soviet period to the era of the digital economy

Various stages of capital amnesty carried out in the Russian Federation have been identified and considered from 1993 to 2022. They are related to the adoption of new (modified) rules contained in special legislative and other normative acts. The most significant and profitable preferences for declarants, conditions of implementation of amnesty of capital are defined for its every period. In the context of the formation and development of the digital economy, gaps in the current legislation are identified, and proposals for its improvement are made. In particular, it is concluded that if the mechanism for voluntary repatriation of capital from abroad is renewed, it should extend to all persons regardless of their legal status. It is also necessary to include digital rights, digital currencies and brokerage accounts in the list of objects subject to declaration for the purpose of amnesty. It is advisable to carry out redomicilation of legal entities wishing to return domestic capital from any countries.

Patient Preferences in the Treatment of Moderate-to-severe Atopic Dermatitis.

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic, inflammatory skin disease. A variety of systemic treatments are available for patients with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis. The efficacy, safety and administration profile of these treatments vary, and determining the optimal treatment strategy may require weighing the benefits and drawbacks of therapies with diverse characteristics. This study used an online discrete choice experiment survey to investigate treatment preferences among adults with atopic dermatitis from Denmark, France, the UK, or Canada. Participants were identified through existing online panels. The survey included questions regarding different treatment attributes, defined based on currently approved treatments for moderate to severe atopic dermatitis. Treatment preferences were measured as the relative importance of different treatment attributes. A total of 713 respondents met the inclusion criteria and completed the survey. The discrete choice experiment identified a significant preference for avoiding the risk of severe adverse events, and for oral pill every day compared with biweekly injections. The time to full effect was not rated as being important. These findings suggest that patients with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis prioritize safety as most important, followed by ease of administration in their treatment preferences, while time to full effect and monitoring requirements were the least important attributes.

Determining the effects of Candida utilis-fermented pea starch vs. unfermented pea starch, alone or in whole diets, on palatability and glycemic response in dogs and cats.

Current research suggests yeast fermentation has the potential to improve palatability of pea-based diets for both cats and dogs. However, to be useful, fermentation should not compromise other healthy attributes of peas such as a low glycemic response. Fermentation of uncooked pea starch with Candida utilis (ATCC 9950) appeared to increase crude protein, crude fiber content, inorganic compounds (phosphorus and iron) and phenols. Whole diets were designed with fermented and unfermented pea starch to assess palatability, food intake, and glycemic responses in unacclimated, mixed sex Beagle dogs and mixed breed cats (n = 8 and n = 7, respectively). For palatability testing, a control diet was formulated with 30% corn starch as well as test diets with 30% inclusion of fermented or unfermented pea starch (all lab-made), then compared to a commercial diet containing pea starch (Legacy/Horizon). Fermentation had little effect on rapidly digestible starch either in uncooked starch form or when incorporated into whole diets, but did decrease resistant starch by 15% and increase slowly digestible starch by 20%. Palatability tests using either two choices or four choices at a time revealed a significant preference for the fermented pea starch diet (p < 0.01) in both species. For the glycemic responses, a total of four different pea products were included: unfermented pea starch, fermented pea starch, and 30% inclusion of unfermented and fermented pea starch in whole formulated diets. There were no significant changes in glycemic responses with the fermented pea diet compared to the unfermented diet, demonstrating that healthful low glycemic properties of pea starch were retained after C. utilis fermentation. Overall, C. utilis-fermentation technique was successfully adapted to pea starch where it resulted in increased palatability and food intake in dogs and cats, with potential to positively contribute to overall health benefits for both species.

Eliciting parental preferences and values for the return of additional findings from genomic sequencing

Health economic evidence is needed to inform the design of high-value and cost-effective processes for returning genomic results from analyses for additional findings (AF). This study reports the results of a discrete-choice experiment designed to elicit preferences for the process of returning AF results from the perspective of parents of children with rare conditions and to estimate the value placed on AF analysis. Overall, 94 parents recruited within the Australian Genomics and Melbourne Genomics programmes participated in the survey, providing preferences in a total of 1128 choice scenarios. Statistically significant preferences were identified for the opportunity to change the choices made about AF; receiving positive AF in person from a genetic counsellor; timely access to a medical specialist and high-quality online resources; receiving automatic updates through a secure online portal if new information becomes available; and lower costs. For AF uptake rates ranging between 50–95%, the mean per person value from AF analysis was estimated at AU$450–$1700 (US$300–$1140). The findings enable the design of a value-maximising process of analysis for AF in rare-disease genomic sequencing.

Heterogeneous preferences and consumer willingness to pay for vitamin D fortification of eggs

AbstractFood reformulation can contribute to achieve public health objectives by facilitating access to healthy and sustainable food choices to consumers. Vitamin D is an important micronutrient that contributes to calcium absorption and bone health. Low vitamin D levels may lead to having a higher risk of poor bone and muscle for human health. In this manuscript we investigated, for the first time, United Kingdom consumer willingness to pay (WTP), and heterogeneity preferences for vitamin D fortification of eggs. We used a choice experiment (CE) involving several hypothetical egg products (i.e., pack of 10 eggs) that vary across three attributes levels such as production method (i.e., Cage, Barn, Free‐range, and Organic), vitamin (i.e., no information or by reporting on the pack the claim “Vitamin D added”), and price (i.e., £0.80/pack, £1.90/pack, £3.00/pack, and £4.10/pack). Results suggest that, although on average consumers prefer low‐price eggs produced using the free‐range production method and the information about vitamin D fortification does not affect their valuation, there is a significant preference heterogeneity in consumer preferences associated with animal welfare, environment, health, and price attributes. Particularly, there is a significant preference heterogeneity towards the purchasing of eggs produced using the barn production method. Furthermore, we found that consumer preferences for vitamin D fortification of eggs is affected by consumer's age and the price of eggs. These findings provide useful insights into the psychology of consumer acceptance and attitudes that can be used in communicating the nature of the fortified vitamin D eggs to the public. They also have important implications for future labeling policies and marketing strategies of egg industry.

Outer layer of Vb neurons in medial entorhinal cortex project to hippocampal dentate gyrus in mice.

Entorhinal cortical (EC)-hippocampal (HPC) circuits are crucial for learning and memory. Although it was traditionally believed that superficial layers (II/III) of the EC mainly project to the HPC and deep layers (V/VI) receive input from the HPC, recent studies have highlighted the significant projections from layers Va and VI of the EC into the HPC. However, it still remains unknown whether Vb neurons in the EC provide projections to the hippocampus. In this study, using a molecular marker for Vb and retrograde tracers, we identified that the outer layer of Vb neurons in the medial EC (MEC) directly project to both dorsal and ventral hippocampal dentate gyrus (DG), with a significant preference for the ventral DG. In contrast to the distribution of DG-projecting Vb cells, anterior thalamus-projecting Vb cells are distributed through the outer to the inner layer of Vb. Furthermore, dual tracer injections revealed that DG-projecting Vb cells and anterior thalamus-projecting Vb cells are distinct populations. These results suggest that the roles of MEC Vb neurons are not merely limited to the formation of EC-HPC loop circuits, but rather contribute to multiple neural processes for learning and memory.

(367) Penile Constriction Device Satisfaction: Does Sexual Preference Have Any Effect on Preferences and Effectiveness?

Abstract Introduction Penile constriction devices are a noninvasive way to improve sexual performance and erectile function, making them an appealing choice for men. To understand their clinical value and patient satisfaction, it is important to assess patient preferences and the efficacy of different devices. Comparative studies between heterosexual and homosexual men are also necessary to recognize and meet the diverse needs and experiences of these populations, leading to more tailored and effective recommendations. Objective To assess and compare the preference and effectiveness of two medical-grade penile constriction devices between heterosexual and homosexual men. Methods Between May 2023 and July 2023, males were recruited via social media platforms and prospectively enrolled into an IRB-approved, randomized, questionnaire-based study. Upon enrollment, the participants completed the Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM) and Androgen Deficiency in Aging Males (ADAM). Participants were then randomized to which device (FirmTech vs Eddie by Giddy) they would receive first and were instructed to use the device twice either during masturbation or intercourse within a two-week timeframe. Once utilized, the participants completed a 17-question, five-point Likert scale device satisfaction questionnaire. Once the first device and survey were completed the other device was sent and the process was repeated. In the device satisfaction questionnaire, lower numbers indicated more positive responses to the questions. We then took the data collected and matched 2 homosexual participants to 1 heterosexual participant by age. Responses from the questionnaire with numerical values are presented as the mean difference (MD) and analyzed using a paired t-test. Questionnaire responses that were “yes” or “no” were analyzed using McNemar’s chi-square analysis. A p-value less than 0.05 was considered significant. Results Fifty men were enrolled and 44 completed the study. After matching the patients by age, 21 were included in the analysis. Among the 21 participants, 14 (66.7%) were homosexual and 7 (33.3%) heterosexual. There was no statistically significant preference or effectiveness amongst the heterosexual group for either device. However when comparing both devices within the homosexual group, 11 (78.6%)) would recommend the FirmTech to a friend, compared to 5 (35.7%) who would recommend the Eddie by Giddy device (p=0.0412). Within the homosexual group, they preferred the ease of putting on the device while flaccid and erect and its comfort (MDs -1.14, -1.79, and-1.50; respective p-values 0.0019, 0.0010, and 0.0160). Homosexual participants also had a significantly better overall impression of the FirmTech device (MD=-0.79; p=0.0099). Lastly, the homosexual participants were significantly more likely to use the FirmTech device in partnered sex as compared to the Giddy (MD=-01.36, p=0.0038). Conclusions These findings suggest that homosexual men favor the FirmTech device over the Eddie by Giddy, rating it more positively and being more likely to recommend it to a friend. Further research with a larger and more diverse sample is needed to fully comprehend the different preferences and satisfaction with penile constriction devices among men with different sexual orientations Disclosure Yes, this is sponsored by industry/sponsor: FirmTech and Eddie by Giddy Clarification: Industry funding only - investigator initiated and executed study Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: FirmTech- On Scientific Review Board.

(135) A Randomized Survey Study Comparing the Preference and Effectiveness of Two Different Penile Constriction Devices

Abstract Introduction Penile constriction devices are a noninvasive way to improve sexual performance and erectile function, making them an appealing choice for men. To understand their clinical value and patient satisfaction, it is important to assess patient preferences and the efficacy of different devices. Comparative studies between heterosexual and homosexual men are also necessary to recognize and meet the diverse needs and experiences of these populations, leading to more tailored and effective recommendations. Objective To assess and compare the preference and effectiveness of two medical-grade penile constriction devices. Methods Between May 2023 and July 2023, males were recruited via social media platforms and prospectively enrolled into an IRB-approved, randomized, questionnaire-based study. Upon enrollment, the participants completed the Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM) and Androgen Deficiency in Aging Males (ADAM). Participants were then randomized to which device (FirmTech vs Eddie by Giddy) they would receive first and were instructed to use the device twice either during masturbation or intercourse within a two-week timeframe. Once utilized, the participants completed a 17-question, five-point Likert scale device satisfaction questionnaire. Once the first device and survey were completed, the other device was sent and the process was repeated. In the device satisfaction questionnaire, lower numbers indicated more positive responses to the questions. Responses from the questionnaire with numerical values are presented as the mean difference (MD) and analyzed using a paired t-test. Questionnaire responses that were “yes” or “no” were analyzed using McNemar’s chi-square analysis. A p-value less than 0.05 was considered significant. Results Fifty men were enrolled and 44 completed the study. Among the participants, 31 (70.4%) identified as homosexual, 10 (22.7%) as heterosexual, and 3 (6.8%) as bisexual with a mean age of 36.5 (IQR = 16.5). Table 1 provides a summary of the demographic characteristics. The baseline mean SHIM and ADAM score was 19.5 and 0.5, respectively. A statistically significant preference for the ease of putting on the FirmTech device while erect was found (MD,-0.84; p = 0.001). There was also a statistically significant preference for the comfort, adjustability, and stretch of the FirmTech device (MDs -0.66, -0.32, and -0.86; respective p values 0.018, 0.033, and &amp;lt;0.001). Finally, 35 (79.5%) participants stated that they would recommend FirmTech to a friend, as opposed to 25 (55.6%) who would recommend Eddie by Giddy (p = 0.020). Conclusions These findings suggest that, when comparing penile constriction devices, men prefer the FirmTech device over the Eddie by Giddy with respect to ease of putting on the device, comfort, stretch, and adjustability. Men are more likely to recommend the FirmTech device over Eddie by Giddy. Further research with a larger sample size, which includes a more equal distribution of men of different sexual orientations, is warranted to further support the generalizability and validity of these initial findings, illustrate consumer preference for FirmTech, and expound upon its preferential qualities. Disclosure Yes, this is sponsored by industry/sponsor: FirmTech and Eddie by Giddy. Clarification: Industry funding only - investigator initiated and executed study. Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: FirmTech- On Scientific Review Board.

Chirality of Copper-Amino Acid Nanoparticles Determines Chemodynamic Cancer Therapeutic Outcome.

Chirality is a prevalent characteristic in nature, where biological systems exhibit a significant preference for specific enantiomers of biomolecules. However, there is a limited exploration into utilizing nanomaterials' chirality to modulate their interactions with intracellular substances. In this study, self-assembled copper-cysteine chiral nanoparticles and explore the influence of their charity on cancer chemodynamic therapy (CDT) are fabricated. Experimental and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation results demonstrate that the copper-l-cysteine chiral nanoparticles (Cu-l-Cys NPs) exhibit a stronger affinity toward l-glutathione (l-GSH) that is overproduced in cancer cells, compared to the copper-d-cysteine enantiomer (Cu-d-Cys NPs). The interaction between Cu-l-Cys NPs and l-GSH triggers a redox reaction that depletes l-GSH and converts Cu2+ into Cu+. Subsequently, Cu+ catalyzes a Fenton-like reaction, decomposing H2O2 into highly cytotoxic hydroxyl radicals (•OH) for cancer CDT. In vivo, results confirm that Cu-l-Cys NPs with good biocompatibility elicit a pronounced cancer cell death and effectively inhibit tumor growth. This work proposes a new perspective on chirality-enhanced cancer therapy.

The value of genomic testing in severe childhood speech disorders.

With increasing gene discoveries for severe speech disorders, genomic testing can alter the diagnostic and clinical paradigms, enabling better life outcomes for children and their families. However, evidence on the value of the outcomes generated is lacking, impeding optimal translation into health care. This study aims to estimate the value and uptake of genomic testing for severe childhood speech disorders. A discrete choice experiment was undertaken to elicit preferences for genomic testing from the perspective of the Australian public (n = 951) and parents of children experiencing severe speech disorder (n = 56). Choice attributes associated with genomic testing were identified through focus groups. A Bayesian D-efficient design was used to develop choice scenarios and choice data were analyzed using a panel error component mixed logit model and a latent class model. Statistically significant preferences were identified across all seven attributes. The mean monetary value of the benefits of genomic testing relative to standard diagnostic care in Australia was estimated at AU$7489 (US$5021) and AU$4452 (US$2985) from the perspectives of the Australian public and families with lived experience of severe speech disorders, with a corresponding test uptake of 94.2% and 99.6%. To ensure fair prioritization of genomics, decision-makers need to consider the wide range of risks and benefits associated with genomic information.

A study to evaluate patient benefit/risk preferences for treatment of metastatic prostate cancer (mPC) in Hong Kong: A discrete choice experiment.

104 Background: The patient’s preference for treatment is dynamic across different cultures and at various stages of cancer. Yet little is known regarding their priorities in making treatment decisions. The study's primary objective is to examine the preference weightings in terms of risk/ benefit attributes of therapy in metastatic prostate cancer (mPC) patients in both the hormone-sensitive (mHSPC) and castration-resistant (mCRPC) settings. Methods: This is a non-interventional cross-sectional survey study. A discrete choice experiment was used to assess their priorities on treatment options. 300 consecutive patients with mPC (200 mHSPC and 100 mCRPC) diagnosed within 5 years were recruited from the specialty clinics of our hospital from Feb 2023 to Jul 2023. A facilitated group interview session of 5 patients was conducted to evaluate the importance and relevance of potential attributes selected from the literature search. Five attributes were adopted, and each has 3 levels compromised between real-life rates and expectations of patients from the interview session. Patients were randomized into 2 blocks by recruitment sequence and chose 1 medication profile out of 2 throughout the 9 questions in each block of the questionnaire. A mixed logit model was used for data analysis. Results: Median age was 75 (IQR:71-81). One hundred and seventy (56.7%) had no income, and 245 (81.7%) claimed to take care of themselves. The mean maximum amount affordable for treatment was US$20,456 (SD:43,568), and 160 (53.3%) said they would not consider further treatment if the cost exceeded their affordability. Compared to intravenous formulation, oral medication once/day had a non-statistically significant favorable preference (0.06 p:0.272), and oral medication twice/day had a negative statistically significant preference (-0.20 p:0.040). The percentage of retained self-care ability (4.37 p&lt;0.001) and percentage of extension in life expectancy (2.83 p&lt;0.001) had a statistically significant favorable preference. In contrast, the chance of adverse effects leading to complicated medication treatment or hospitalization (-6.97, p&lt;0.001) and treatment cost (in HK$ million) (-3.14 p&lt;0.001) had a negative statistically significant preference. The mCPRC group was more sensitive to changes in treatment cost (-3.61 vs. -2.97), percentage of extension in life expectancy (3.47 vs. 2.55) and the chance of adverse effects (-7.55 vs -6.80) than the mHSPC group. Those who could afford treatment were more sensitive to the percentage of retained self-care ability (4.89 vs. 4.02) and the chance of adverse effects (-7.57 vs -6.70) than those who could not. Conclusions: The chance of adverse effects took the largest weighting in treatment decisions, followed by the percentage of retained self-care ability.

Evidence for individual vocal recognition in a pair-bonding poison frog, Ranitomeya imitator.

Individually distinctive vocalizations are widespread in nature, although the ability of receivers to discriminate these signals has only been explored through limited taxonomic and social lenses. Here, we asked whether anuran advertisement calls, typically studied for their role in territory defense and mate attraction, facilitate recognition and preferential association with partners in a pair-bonding poison frog (Ranitomeya imitator). Combining no- and two-stimulus choice playback experiments, we evaluated behavioral responses of females to male acoustic stimuli. Virgin females oriented to and approached speakers broadcasting male calls independent of caller identity, implying that females are generally attracted to male acoustic stimuli outside the context of a pair bond. When pair-bonded females were presented with calls of a mate and a stranger, they showed significant preference for calls of their mate. Moreover, behavioral responses varied with breeding status: females with eggs were faster to approach stimuli than females that were pair bonded but did not currently have eggs. Our study suggests a potential role for individual vocal recognition in the formation and maintenance of pair bonds in a poison frog and raises new questions about how acoustic signals are perceived in the context of monogamy and biparental care.

Characterizing the Retailer's Preference for Demand–Control and Demand–Promotion Efforts

This article investigates a setting where the retailer invests costly effort to shape demand, such as reducing demand fluctuation through demand–control effort or increasing demand levels with demand–promotion effort. We explore the preference bias between these two effort types and examine the impact of such a bias on profit performance. The experimental findings reveal that actual effort investments exhibit a significant preference bias for promotion effort in the low-profit condition, while no significant preference bias is observed in the high-profit condition. This behavioral pattern can be captured by a reference-dependent behavioral model incorporating the retailer's optimism level in the reference point. Additional analyses, such as robustness experiments and model extensions, provide further support for the promotion-effort bias in the low-profit condition. Our analysis presents a comprehensive understanding of demand-shaping effort preferences and extends the application of the reference-dependence framework. It provides insights for managers in identifying potential biases and mitigating profit loss in demand-shaping activities.