Principal Component Cluster Analysis Research Articles

Characterization And Genetic Relationship of Several Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) Genotypes from Various Regions

The research aims to obtain information about the morphological characters and genetic relationships of several tomato genotypes from various regions. The study was conducted from May to October 2023 at the Experimental Garden and Plant Breeding Laboratory, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Riau. The research used a randomized block design (RBD) consisting of eight genotypes and four repeats, and 32 experimental units were obtained. The observations were made to observe some qualitative characters. Qualitative data were analyzed using principal component analysis and cluster analysis to see genetic relationships. The results showed that the Magelang genotype (T27) had a high average plant fruit weight of 619.74 g, the Pane tongah (T24) had an average thick fruit flesh of 6.05 mm, the Silimakuta (T22) had an average large fruit size of 63.28 g. In contrast, the Purba (T25) had an average number of large planting fruits of 15.41 pieces. Grouping eight tomato genotypes based on clustering of MC1 and MC2 and cutting the dendrogram at a 90% similarity rate resulted in six groups. Group One consists of three genotypes, specifically Silimakuta (T22), Alahan Panjang (T26), and Magelang (T27). Group Two has Raya (T23), Group Three has Purba (T25), Group Four has Pane tongah (T24), group five has Servo F1 and group six has Ratna. The closest kinship based on the smallest euclidiean distance value is the Silimakuta (T22) and Alahan panjang (T26), with a value of 19.44. The genotypes with the farthest similarity are Raya (T23) and Purba (T25) because they have a 46.24 genetic distance

Ecogeography and Climate Change in Forage Grasses from Arid and Semi-Arid Regions of Mexico

Arid and semi-arid areas are highly productive ecosystems that have a great diversity of species, among which grasses stand out. These species have ecological, environmental, and economic importance. The objective was to identify the ecological descriptors of 15 native species of grasses and diversity patterns through multivariate analysis techniques (principal component analysis, PCA, and cluster analysis, CA), in addition to identifying potential distribution areas (current and future) and regions of high and low diversity from 3841 accessions and 21 climatic variables. Among the main results, the extreme values, coefficient of variation, and median for each species could be determined. PCA determined that, with 10 variables, it was possible to explain 54.36% of the variation between the analyzed species. CA resulted in the formation of four statistically significant groups, with specific climatic characteristics. Regarding potential distribution areas and climate change, a reduction in distribution is expected (2050) on most of the current surface, with a possible opportunity zone in the north of the country. Finally, two hotspots (high diversity areas) and four coldspots (low diversity areas) were identified among the analyzed species. These results can be used to create strategies for sustainable use and the conservation of these resources.

Proteo-genomic characterization of cirrhosis-associated liver cancers reveals potential subtypes and therapeutic targets.

This study aimed to identify potential subtypes of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) associated with cirrhosis and to investigate key markers using bioinformatic analysis of gene expression datasets-0. Three data sets (GSE17548, GSE56140, and GSE87630) were extracted from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database and normalized using the Limma package in R. Principal component analysis (PCA) and cluster analysis was performed to examine data distribution and identify subtypes. Differential gene expression analysis was performed using the Limma software package. Protein-protein interaction analysis and functional annotation were performed using the STRING database and Cytoscape software. Important signaling pathways and processes were identified using Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) Pathway Analysis. The analysis revealed different subtypes of HCC associated with cirrhosis and identified several key genes, including CCNB2, MCM4, and CDC20, with strong binding power and prognostic value. Functional annotation indicated involvement in cell cycle regulation and metabolic pathways. ROC analysis showed high sensitivity and specificity of these genes in predicting HCC prognosis. These results suggest that CCNB2, MCM4, and CDC20 may serve as potential biomarkers for predicting HCC prognosis in patients with cirrhosis and provide insights into the molecular mechanisms of HCC progression.

Investigating the Effects of Tube Current and Tube Voltage on Patient Dose in Computed Tomography Examinations with Principial Component Analysis and Cluster Analysis: Phantom Study.

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of tube current and tube voltage choices on patient dose in adult and pediatric CT protocols by qualitative analysis using Principal Component Analysis (PCA), cluster analysis, and statistical analysis.Dose length product (DLP), Effective mAs (Eff. mAs), and volume-weighted CT dose index (CTDIvol) dose descriptors were obtained from 16 adult and pediatric head phantom CT examinations. Different tube voltage and tube current values were selected in both pediatric head and adult head CT imaging protocols, and PCA and cluster analysis were applied to the data obtained for qualitative analysis of the relationship between CTDIvol, Eff. mAs and Total DLP values. The two principial components (PC) with the highest values among those obtained as a result of the PCA method were used. PC1 was 70.97%, and PC2 was 28.03%. In the cluster analysis, it was observed that the values obtained from pediatric and adult phantom CT scans were classified into two different clusters. The correlation coefficient for adult patients was r = 0.998, and for pediatric patients, the correlation coefficient was r = 0.947. When the obtained clusters were examined, the degree of closeness or distance of the variables could be observed. In the study, as a result of the analysis of CTDIvol, Eff. mAs and Total DLP data based on manufacturer data at different kV and mA values with PCA and cluster analysis, it was shown that pediatric patients could be exposed to more radiation than the adult patients.

Screening of Germplasm and Construction of Evaluation System for Autotoxicity Tolerance during Seed Germination in Cucumber

Due to the widespread use of intensive cropping patterns, the problem of continuous cropping obstacle, which is dominated by autotoxicity, has been becoming more and more prominent. Although many methods have been proposed to overcome the continuous cropping obstacle of cucumber, no study has reported the screening and evaluation of cucumber germplasm resistant to autotoxicity. In this study, 28 physiological indices related to the cucumber bud stage under cinnamic acid (CA) treatment were determined. In total, 45 cucumber cultivars were classified into three groups using principal component analysis and cluster analysis, and a model for evaluating cucumber resistance to autotoxicity was developed. The evaluation model was validated using autotoxicity-tolerant and non-autotoxicity-tolerant cultivars. The results showed that the growth of non-autotoxicity-tolerant cultivars was significantly inhibited compared to autotoxicity-tolerant cultivars. This indicated that the evaluation model of cucumber autotoxicity tolerance is reliable. The results of this study provide a valuable reference for the application of cucumber autotoxicity-tolerant germplasm resources and the development of autotoxicity-tolerant genes.

Analyzing the impact of ocean-atmosphere teleconnections on rainfall variability in the Brazilian Legal Amazon via the Rainfall Anomaly Index (RAI)

Drought events are mainly associated with alterations in ocean-atmosphere patterns, leading to abnormally dry conditions due to reduced precipitation. This study aims to enhance the understanding of the spatiotemporal relationship of atmospheric teleconnections associated with droughts in the Brazilian Legal Amazon (BLA), based on the Rainfall Anomaly Index (RAI), utilizing 1675 precipitation grid points from the Global Precipitation Climatology Centre (GPCC) for the period 1970–2019. The results revealed that Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and cluster analysis of RAI demonstrated significant climatic variability, with 15 components explaining 68% of the total variance and identifying two homogeneous regions closely aligning with observed conditions. Atmospheric teleconnections showed substantial variation in spatial and temporal extent in extreme drought events in the years 2005, 2010, 2015–2016, and 2019 in the BLA. The findings indicate that on an interannual scale, the dominant teleconnections in the BLA are the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (AMO), North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO), Tropical North Atlantic (TNA), Pacific North American (PNA) pattern, and Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC). In contrast, on a decadal scale, the Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO), Southern Oscillation Index (SOI), Oceanic Niño Index (ONI), and Tropical South Atlantic (TSA) prevail. Our results provide valuable insights into the nature of drought events in the Amazon, including strategies for the early detection of their intensity and affected areas, demonstrating that atmospheric teleconnections significantly influence both interannual and decadal periods. These influences are concentrated on specific temporal scales and during particular years. Conclusively, this study underscores the critical role of atmospheric teleconnections in shaping drought dynamics in the BLA, offering a foundation for predictive models and mitigation strategies to combat climate-induced challenges in the region.

Comprehensive Evaluation and Selection of 192 Maize Accessions from Different Sources.

In the period 2022-2023, an analysis of fourteen phenotypic traits was conducted across 192 maize accessions in the Aral region of Xinjiang. The Shannon-Wiener diversity index was employed to quantify the phenotypic diversity among the accessions. Subsequently, a comprehensive evaluation of the index was performed utilizing correlation analysis, principal component analysis (PCA) and cluster analysis. The results highlighted significant findings: (1) A pronounced diversity was evident across the 192 maize accessions, accompanied by complex interrelationships among the traits. (2) The 14 phenotypic traits were transformed into 3 independent indicators through principal component analysis: spike factor, leaf width factor, and number of spikes per plant. (3) The 192 materials were divided into three groups using cluster analysis. The phenotypes in Group III exhibited the best performance, followed by those in Group I, and finally Group II. The selection of the three groups can vary depending on the breeding objectives. This study analysed the diversity of phenotypic traits in maize germplasm resources. Maize germplasm was categorised based on similar phenotypes. These findings provide theoretical insights for the study of maize accessions under analogous climatic conditions in Alar City, which lay the groundwork for the efficient utilization of existing germplasm as well as the development and selection of new varieties.

Explorative Study on Volatile Organic Compounds of Cinnamon Based on GC-IMS.

Cinnamon is one of the most popular spices worldwide, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are its main metabolic products. The misuse or mixing of cinnamon on the market is quite serious. This study used gas chromatography-ion migration spectroscopy (GC-IMS) technology to analyze the VOCs of cinnamon samples. The measurement results showed that 66 VOCs were detected in cinnamon, with terpenes being the main component accounting for 45.45%, followed by aldehydes accounting for 21.21%. The content of esters and aldehydes was higher in RG-01, RG-02, and RG-04; the content of alcohols was higher in RG-01; and the content of ketones was higher in RG-02. Principal component analysis, cluster analysis, and partial least squares regression analysis can be performed on the obtained data to clearly distinguish cinnamon. According to the VIP results of PLS-DA, 1-Hexanol, 2-heptanone, ethanol, and other substances are the main volatile substances that distinguish cinnamon. This study combined GC-IMS technology with chemometrics to accurately identify cinnamon samples, providing scientific guidance for the efficient utilization of cinnamon. At the same time, this study is of great significance for improving the relevant quality standards of spices and guiding the safe use of spices.

Research on Discriminant Model of Water Inrush Source By Principal Component-cluster Analysis in Jiaozuo Mining Area

This paper takes Jiaozuo Mining Area as the research object, based on the analysis of the hydrogeological conditions of the mining area, expounds the characteristics of coal strata, aquifers and groundwater recharge, runoff and discharge in the mining area; analyses the water inrush sources and water diversion channels in the mining area, analyses the routine water chemical data of each aquifer in the mining area, draws the piper three-line diagram and confirms it. To determine the hydrochemical type of groundwater in aquifer, six common water chemical ions are used as discriminant factors, a discriminant model of water inrush source is established by combining principal component analysis and cluster analysis, and the principal component of conventional water chemical ions is extracted as cluster variable to discriminate Water Inrush Source in Jiaozuo Mining Area. In order to prove the rationality and validity of the model, another group of inrush sources in Jiaozuo Mining Area is discussed. The water sample data are discriminated and the results obtained by cluster analysis are compared to verify the accuracy of the model. The results show that the model is feasible. To sum up, the identification model of inrush water source by principal component-cluster analysis can accurately and effectively identify the source of inrush water in Jiaozuo Mining Area.

Atmospheric gaseous mercury and associated health risk assessment in the economic capital of India.

Mercury cycling in coastal metropolitan areas on the west coast of India becomes complex due to the combined effects of both intensive domestic anthropogenic emissions and marine air masses. The present study is based on yearlong data of continuous measurements of gaseous elemental mercury (GEM) concentration concurrent with meteorological parameters and some air pollutants at a coastal urban site in Mumbai, on the west coast of India, for the first time. The concentration of GEM was found in a range between 2.2 and 12.3ng/m3, with a mean of 3.1 ± 1.1ng/m3, which was significantly higher than the continental background values in the Northern Hemisphere (~ 1.5ng/m3). Unlike particulates, GEM starts increasing post-winter to peak during the monsoon and decrease towards winter. July had the highest concentration of GEM followed by October, and a minimum in January. GEM exhibited a distinct diurnal cycle, mainly with a broad peak in the early morning, a narrow one by nightfall, and a minimum in the afternoon. The peaks and their timing suggest the origin of urban mobility and the start of local activities. A positive correlation between SO2, PM2.5, temperature, relative humidity, and GEM indicates that emissions from local industrial plants in the Mumbai coastal area. Principal component analysis (PCA) and cluster analysis (CA) confirm this fact. Monthly back trajectory analysis showed that air mass flows are predominantly from the Arabian Sea and local human activities. Assessment of human health risks by USEPA model reveals that the hazardous quotient, HQ < 1, implies negligible carcinogenic risk. GEM observations in Mumbai during the study period are below the World Health Organization's (WHO) safe limit (200ng/m3) for long-term inhalation.

Multivariate statistical methods for analysis of physicochemical and microbiological parameters of well water from the village M’Pody

The pollution of surface water and groundwater is a real public health problem that is currently receiving particular attention throughout the world. The use of water for food or hygiene purposes requires excellent physicochemical and microbiological quality. Well water is used for many purposes by the inhabitants of M’pody, a village in the Anyama district of Côte d’Ivoire. In this village, an epidemic of diarrhoea was detected in January 2020. This epidemic claimed sixty-nine (69) victims. This study aims to evaluate well water quality controls using the methods of principal component analysis (PCA), correspondence factorial analysis (CFA), analysis of variance (ANOVA) and self-organizing map (SOM) algorithm. The parameters studied were, turbidity (Tur), conductivity (Cond), hydrogen potential (pH), temperature (T), nitrate (NO3-\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$NO_{3^{-}}$$\\end{document}), nitrite (NO2-\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$NO_{2^{-}}$$\\end{document}), ammonium (NH4+\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$NH_{4^{+}}$$\\end{document}), phosphates (PO43-\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$PO_{4}^{3^{-}}$$\\end{document}), chlorides (Cl-)\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$(Cl^{-})$$\\end{document}, total hydrotimetric degree (DHT), sulfates (SO42-\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$SO_{4}^{2^{-}}$$\\end{document}), bicarbonate (HCO3-\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$HCO_{3^{-}}$$\\end{document}), total alkalinity contents (TAC), escherichia coli (E.coli), thermotolerant coliforms (CTH) and enterococcus faecalis (E.faecalis). Data were collected from seventy-two (72) wells in the village during four campaigns in 2020. Physicochemical parameters were determined by electrochemical and spectrophotometric methods. Microbiological analysis was carried out using membrane filtration technique. Descriptive statistics revealed that Tur, Cond, pH and T parameters did not meet world health organization (WHO, 2017) standards. However, the parameters NO3-\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$NO_{3^{-}}$$\\end{document}, NO2-\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$NO_{2^{-}}$$\\end{document}, NH4+\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$NH_{4^{+}}$$\\end{document}, PO43-\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$PO_{4}^{3^{-}}$$\\end{document}, Cl-\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$Cl^{-}$$\\end{document}, DHT, TAC, SO42-\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$SO_{4}^{2^{-}}$$\\end{document} and HCO3-\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$HCO_{3^{-}}$$\\end{document} comply with WHO standards. The results of bacteriological analyzes confirm the presence in very significant numbers of indicators of faecal contamination (CTH, E.coli and E.faecalis) in all wells. The logical explanations for faecal pollution would come from the infiltration of septic tanks located near the wells and the run-off of waste water carrying human and animal faecal matter. The diarrhea epidemic would therefore be caused by the consumption of this polluted water. PCA, FCA and hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) were jointly employed to identify the structure of wells and deduce the principal factors controlling the parameters of these well waters. ANOVA revealed the effect of human-induced activities as the main factors influencing the physicochemical and microbiological parameters of the studied well waters. Further studies should focus on multivariate statistical techniques for effective forecasting and monitoring of emerging pollution for improved water quality.

Root system architecture variation among barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) accessions at seedling stage under soil acidity condition.

Soil acidity in Ethiopian highlands impacts barley production, affecting root system architecture. Study on 300 accessions showed significant trait variability, with potential for breeding enhancement. Soil acidity poses a significant challenge to crop production in the highland regions of Ethiopia, particularly impacting barley, a crucial staple crop. This acidity serves as a key stressor affecting the root system architecture (RSA) of this crop. Hence, the objective of this study was to assess the RSA traits variability under acidic soil conditions using 300 barley accessions in a greenhouse experiment. The analysis of variance indicated substantial variations among the accessions across all traits studied. The phenotypic coefficient of variation ranged from 24.4% for shoot dry weight to 11.1% for root length, while the genotypic coefficient variation varied between 18.83 and 9.2% for shoot dry weight and root length, respectively. The broad-sense heritability ranged from 36.7% for leaf area to 69.9% for root length, highlighting considerable heritability among multiple traits. The genetic advances as a percent of the mean ranged from 13.63 to 29.9%, suggesting potential for enhancement of these traits through breeding efforts. Principal component analysis and cluster analysis grouped the genotypes into two major clusters, each containing varying numbers of genotypes with contrasting traits. This diversegrouppresents an opportunity to access a wide range ofpotential parentcandidates to enhance geneticvariablity in breeding programs. The Pearson correlation analysis revealed significant negative associations between root angle (RA) and other RSA traits. This helps indirect selection of accessions for further improvement in soil acidity. In conclusion, this study offers valuable insights into the RSA characteristics of barley in acidic soil conditions, aiding in the development of breeding strategies to enhance crop productivity in acidic soil environments.

Change of dietary pattern among young people aged 18-35 in China from 1989 to 2018

To analyze the dietary patterns changes of young people aged 18-35 in 15 provinces(autonomous regions, municipalities) from 1989 to 2018. Using the data of China Health and Nutrition Survey, a total of 25 400 young people aged 18-35 with complete dietary and sociodemographic information from 1989 to 2018 in 15 provinces(autonomous regions, municipalities) were selected as the research objects. Nutrition survey was carried out by using 3 consecutive days of 24-hour review method combined with weighing accounting method. Energy and nutrient intake was calculated based on food composition list. The principal component cluster analysis was used to select food groups and K-mean cluster was uesd to extract dietary patterns. Dwass-Steel-Critchlow-Fligner was used to test the difference of food intake in different dietary patterns. Cochran-Armitage trend test was to analyze the change of dietary patterns with the years. Chi-square test was to analyze the difference of people with different dietary patterns in 2018. The dietary patterns of young people aged 18-35 in 15 provinces(autonomous regions, municipalities) were mainly divided into three categories: "traditional rice", "traditional pasta" and "high-quality protein". In 2018, the proportion of "traditional rice" dietary patterns was higher for men than for women, and the proportion of "high-quality protein" dietary patterns was lower than for women. The proportion of "traditional pasta" dietary pattern in people aged 25-35 was higher than that aged 18-24, and the proportion of "high-quality protein" dietary pattern was lower than that aged 18-24. The proportion of people in urban with "traditional rice" dietary pattern was lower than that in rural areas, and the proportion of "high-quality protein" dietary pattern was higher than that in rural areas. The northern region was dominated by "traditional pasta" dietary pattern, while the southern region was dominated by "traditional rice" dietary pattern, and the proportion of people with "high-quality protein" dietary pattern was higher in the northern region than in the southern region. With the increase of education level and income level, the proportion of people with "high-quality protein" dietary pattern showed an increasing trend. From 1989 to 2018, the "traditional rice" dietary pattern had always maintained a high proportion among young people aged 18-35 in 15 provinces(autonomous regions, municipalities) in China, and the "traditional pasta" dietary pattern had been decreasing since 2009, and the "high-quality protein" dietary pattern had significantly increased since 2011. From 1989 to 2018, the proportion of young people aged 18-35 with reasonable dietary pattern has increased in 15 provinces(autonomous regions, municipalities), but the traditional dietary pattern still needs to be improved.

The influence of Lactobacillus plantarum fermentation in selenium-enriched Brassica napus L.: changes in the nutritional constituents, bioactivities and bioaccessibility

Selenium (Se)-enriched Brassica napus L. is a valuable organic Se supplement. In this study, the fermentation broth enriched with organic Se (FFS) was prepared using Lactobacillus plantarum to ferment the substrate of Se-enriched Brassica napus L. Significant increases were observed after fermentation in total sugars, reducing sugars, soluble proteins, total phenolic content (TPC), and total flavonoid content (TFC). The organic Se was retained at a concentration of 54.75 ​mg/g in the freeze-dried sample. Principal component analysis and cluster analysis showed good separation between the FFS and unfermented (FS) groups. Fragrant 2-ethyloxetane had the highest content among all volatiles, while sinapine had the highest content among all phenolic compounds. The fermentation process showed remarkable improvement in the abundance and concentration of volatile compounds and phenolic contents, making FFS exhibit strong antioxidant activity and inhibitory capacity against α-glucosidase activity. The bioaccessibility of phenolic compounds was significantly greater in FFS compared to FS. ADMET analysis revealed that the majority of phenolic compounds contained in FFS did not exhibit mutagenicity toxicity, hepatotoxicity, skin sensitization, or blood-brain barrier penetration, indicating a favorable level of biosafety. Overall, our study provides a new insight into the further utilization of Se-enriched Brassica napus L. in foods.

Morphometric analysis of the Late Cretaceous Placenticeras of Alabama, USA: sexual dimorphism, allometry, and implications for taxonomy

AbstractA traditional typological approach to taxonomy often does not adequately account for intraspecific variation and can result in taxonomic oversplitting. For many groups, including ammonoids of the Placenticeras genus, intraspecific variation documented in recent studies (e.g., ontogenetic changes, sexual dimorphism, polymorphism) challenges the historic proliferation of species names. Here, we used a population approach to taxonomy and quantitatively evaluated morphometric variation in a sample of Late Cretaceous (Santonian–Campanian) Placenticeras from Alabama and adjacent counties.We used linear mixed models (LMMs) to characterize how morphological variables scale with conch size across the sample, exploiting mixed longitudinal data to evaluate individual variation in growth and inform interpretations of multivariate analyses. Extended LMMs incorporating geological formation evaluated morphological changes through time. Principal component analysis and clustering analysis were then used to evaluate the number of distinct clusters that emerged in multivariate morphospace independent of previous taxon name assignments.Discontinuous scaling relationships and distinct clusters in multivariate space suggest sexual dimorphism characterized by differences in adult size and, secondarily, shape. Previous Stantonoceras and Placenticeras assignments broadly overlap in our morphospace, failing to justify this historic distinction (as sexual dimorphs or as genera or subgenera). Placenticeras conch morphology and ornament placement changed through time, suggesting a potential utility for coarse (stage-level) biostratigraphy. However, temporal changes were not associated with distinct clusters in morphospace, and our data fail to support the plethora of reported species names. As few as one or two (successive) species may be present in our sample (representing 130 years of collection effort). In addition to highlighting the need for a significant taxonomic revision of the Placenticeras genus, this study demonstrates the utility of LMMs for distinguishing between different sources of morphological variation, improving interpretations of morphospace under a population approach to taxonomy, and maximizing the amount of ontogenetic information that can be obtained nondestructively.

Exploring airborne fungal contaminations and air quality pollution in nine ancient stone temples, Surin, Thailand.

This study provided crucial insights into the concentrations of airborne fungi, environmental parameters, and atmospheric pollution in Thailand's ancient stone temples. Airborne fungi were identified based on morphological characteristics. Airborne fungi, meteorological parameters, and atmospheric pollutants concurrently assessed during each sampling event, evaluating indoor/outdoor ratio. Prevalent genera included Penicillium (14.36%), Aspergillus (10.94%), Cladosporium (10.74%), Rhizopus (6.31%), and Fusarium (5.90%), with an average fungi concentration of 4884.46 ± 724.79CFU/m3. Eighteen fungal species out of the 64 airborne fungi identified were well-known serious pathogenic agents, contributing not only to structural deterioration but also to human health. Significant variations were observed between indoor and outdoor environments and across diverse landscapes, particularly for PM10 (ranging from 43.47 to 121.31µg/m3) and PM2.5 (ranging from 29.59 to 89.60µg/m3), with intensive incense burning identified as a prominent source of indoor atmospheric pollution. Historical temples, particularly situated in urban areas, were identified as significant reservoirs of airborne fungi. Correlations between meteorological parameters and pollutants revealed strong associations. Furthermore, principal component analysis (PCA) and cluster analysis elucidated distinct patterns in airborne fungal concentrations and contaminations. This study analyzed environmental factors, pollutants, airborne fungi, and geographical variations from July 2020 to March 2021. Understanding prevalent genera, airborne fungi concentrations, pathogenic species, biodeterioration, and environmental dynamics provided strategies for improving indoor air quality and mitigating airborne fungal contamination in archaeological buildings worldwide.

Foliar epidermal micromorphology of genus Glochidion J.R.Forst. &amp; G.Forst. (Phyllanthaceae) by using light and electron microscopy

The present study was conducted to compare both qualitative and quantitative characteristics of foliar epidermal micromorphology on some members of Glochidion in Assam. As taxonomic attributes, the foliar epidermal micromorphology study of nine taxa of both abaxial and adaxial surfaces was performed by using light microscopy (LM) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). The result showed both amphistomatic and hypostomatic types of leaf surfaces. On the same surface of the leaf, multiple types of stomata were observed such as anomocytic, anisocytic, hemiparacytic, and paracytic types. Significant diversity and variations were observed in stomatal number, size, area, epidermal cell number, subsidiary cells, and trichomes. The stomatal index, stomatal shape, epidermal cell shape, length and width of the stomata, and trichomes showed variation among the studied taxa. Glands were absent in all studied members. Papillae and epicuticular wax crystals were observed in some taxa. In addition, a taxonomic key was also provided based on foliar leaf epidermal characteristics using qualitative and quantitative data from LM and FESEM. Based on quantitative data of foliar leaf micromorphology, principal component analysis (PCA) and cluster analysis were carried out to authenticate the micromorphological data. These would aid in the identification of taxa as well as in taxonomic delimitation.

Height growth of Mexican boys by geographic region: an evaluation based on nationally representative data of ENSANUT 2012 and 2018.

Existing research on human growth in Mexico is regionally focused, creating a gap in the understanding of growth patterns of children and adolescents at national level and regional variation. The objective of the present study was to characterize the height growth curve of the Mexican population by geographic area and to cluster the states of the Mexican Republic according to their somatic maturation characteristics, based on a national representative sample of boys. Data on age, height, socioeconomic level, and geographic area of 18,219 boys were obtained from the National Health and Nutrition Survey 2012 (ENSANUT) and ENSANUT 2018, carried out in 32 Mexican states. Both surveys had representative samples. Preece-Baines 1 model was applied to fit height growth curves. Biological parameters were estimated; principal component analysis and cluster analysis were performed to group Mexican states based on these biological parameters. The estimated age at peak height velocity (PHV) was 12.3 years in the sample. Significant regional differences in the timing and tempo of PHV among Mexican boys were observed. Boys in the northern region experienced PHV at an earlier age and had a shorter duration of growth compared with boys in the central and southern regions. Boys in the central region had a longer duration of growth and a later age of PHV compared with the boys in the southern region. The cluster that included the southern states of the country showed estimated lower adult height and earlier somatic maturation. A lower height was found in the low and low-middle socioeconomic levels compared with the medium-high and high socioeconomic levels. Future research in Mexico should focus on longitudinal studies to analyse the timing and tempo of growth and maturation, considering the impacts of environmental and genetic factors. Public health strategies should account for geographic variations.

Shell shape polymorphism analysis of the Manila clam Ruditapes philippinarum across different geographical populations in China

Morphology of bivalves, a kind of quantitative character, is closely connected with the ecological and physiological behaviors of bivalves, including growth, survival, metabolism and reproduction. In this study, a multivariate statistical method was used to analyze seven indices for shell shape evaluation of Ruditaps philippinarum (R. philippinarum). Polymorphism of R. philippinarum shell shape across seven geographical populations from the southern and northern regions of China was revealed, and decisive effect of shell shape in determining the trait of weight was discussed. In total, three types of R. philippinarum shell shape were observed: globular, flat, and lateral-view round. The Laizhou (LZ) population from the north of China displayed an approximately globular shell shape, with a shell-width-to-shell-length ratio of 0.5496 and an ellipse index ventral view (EIV) value of 0.9543. The Lianjiang (LJ) population from the south of China displayed a flat shell shape, with a shell-width-to-shell-length ratio of 0.4044, an ellipse index lateral view (EIL) value of 1.2518, and an EIV value of 0.7063. The Zhangzidao (ZZD) population from the north of China displayed a lateral view round shell shape, with a shell-width-to-shell-length ratio of 0.7476 and a circle index lateral view (CIL) value of 0.7195. According to the results of principal component analysis (PCA), discriminant analysis and cluster analysis on shell shape parameters, LJ population and LZ population could be grouped separately. However, despite the long geographical distance, Rongcheng (RC) population was highly similar with ZZD population in terms of shell shape traits, implying that these two populations might be more closely related. Lowest degree of divergence in shell shape was observed in Beihai (BH) population and Yingkou (YK) population, both of which belonged to Zuidong (ZD) population. Weight of globular Manila clams was significantly higher than that of flat clams (P &amp;lt; 0.05). This study not only lays a foundation for conservation of R. philippinarum germplasm resources, but also highlights the importance of considering shell morphology in the breeding and culture of R. philippinarum.

Multidimensional assessment of yield and quality of starchy potato cultivars

Tubers destined for starch production in potato industry need to meet certain commercial quality standards. The objective of the work was to conduct a multivariate assessment of yield potential and tuber quality of starchy potato cultivars. An analysis was performed of data describing potato cultivars listed in the National List of Potato Varieties (KRO) in Poland published by the Plant Breeding and Acclimatization Institute – National Research Institute at Radzików. Very early and early as well as medium late and late starchy potato cultivars were analysed in terms of 13 quantitative characteristic using principal component analysis and cluster analysis. It was demonstrated that, regardless of earliness group, the following traits had the greatest share in the total variation of starchy potato cultivars: tuber yield, starch content, starch yield and bioethanol yield. Cluster analysis allowed the division of very early and early cultivars into 3 groups. The cultivars Szyper, Zuzanna, Kuba and Jubilat, included in the first group, produced superior yields, the highest bioethanol yield and were the most resistant to potato blight. Medium late and late cultivars were divided into two groups. The first group (Pokusa, Gandawa, Rudawa, Hinga, Inwestor, Pasja, Pomorska and Ikar) gave poorer yields and lower bioethanol yields but were more resistant to potato blight in comparison with the second group (Sonda, Kuras, Jasia, Bzura, Skawa and Danuta). The multidimensional methods applied allowed a simultaneous assessment of starchy potato cultivars in terms of many characteristics, and grouping into clusters sharing similar traits.