SAS Statistical Analysis Research Articles

EVALUATION OF GENOTYPES WITH ENVIRONMENTAL INTERACTIONS OF LABLAB (PURPUREUS L.) AND IT'S DRY MATTER YIELDS STABILITY IN THE MIDLAND OF GUJI ZONE, SOUTHERN OROMIA, ETHIOPIA

Animal feed is one of the main challenges livestock producers face due to inadequate nutrition, particularly during the dry season. This study aimed to identify the Lablab genotype's performance in different midlands areas of Guji zones. A 3mx2m plot was used to seed twelve Lablab purpureus genotypes obtained from the International Livestock Research Institute Gene Bank and a tick-registered variety from the Bako Agricultural Research Centre. During the main cropping rainy season in 2021-2022, three locations, Dufa, Gobicha, and Kiltu sorsa, Adola subsite, and on farms in two (2) consecutive years, respectively, were studied using randomized complete block designs (RCBD) with three replications. Information was gathered regarding the establishment, duration of various physiological stages, dry matter yield of fodder, chemical compositions, and additional relevant factors. AMMI and the SAS statistical analysis programmer, version (2002), were used to analyse variance in the gathered data. The list significant difference test was used to compare the means. The AMMI analysis of variance for forage dry matter yield showed substantial (P<0.01) variations in genotype and environment but not in the effects of the G x E interaction. The representative testing site and the testing conditions (Adola Woyu and Kiltu sorsa) were quite good at differentiating genotypes. The combined analysis of the data revealed non-significant (P>0.05) differences for plant height and thousand seed weight but significant (P ≤ 0.05) differences for days to flowering, days to maturity, number of branches, leaf to steam ratio, number of pods, and number of seeds across the tested environments. The results showed that, out of all the examined locations, G-11620 (15.43 t/ha) and G-14486 (11.12 t/ha) had the highest forage dry matter production. It was observed that the leaf-to-steam ratio was higher in both G-11486 and G-11620. All chemical compositions across the tested genotypes were found to be significantly different (p ≤ 0.05) among parameters, except DOMD and IVDMD, which did not show significant (p >0.05) variations among genotypes. The recorded CP content ranged from 21.15% for G-14486 to 23.50% for G-11620, with the lowest value coming from typical cheek Gabis at 10.8%. The highest and the lowest NDFs were recorded from G-11620 (11.2%) and Gabis (22.23%), respectively. Generally, the mean performance, yield and stability of the G-11620 and G-14486 were high and stable across the tested locations. Therefore, genotypes (G-14486 and G-11620) were promoted to variety verification for further evaluation and possible release.

Analysis of the genotype through interactions with the environment and dry matter yield stability of Lablab purpureus L. in midland of Guji zone.

Abstract The purpose of the study was to assess Lablab genotyping performance in different Guji midland areas. A 3mx2m plot was used to seed twelve accessions of Lablab purpureus , which were obtained from the International Livestock Research Institute Gene Bank, and a tick registered variety from Bako Agricultural Research Centre. During the main rainy season in 2021-2022, three locations-Dufa, Gobicha, and Kiltu sorsa, Adola subsite, and on farms in two (2) consecutive years, respectively were studied using randomized complete block designs (RCBD) with three replications. Information was gathered regarding the establishment, duration of various physiological stages, dry matter yield of fodder, chemical compositions, and additional relevant factors. AMMI and the SAS statistical analysis programmer, version (2002), were used to perform an analysis of variance on the gathered data. The list significant difference test was used to compare the means. The results of the AMMI analysis of variance for forage dry matter yield showed that there were substantial (P < 0.01) variations in genotype and environment, but not in the effects of the G x E interaction. Both the representative testing site and the testing conditions (Adola Woyu and Kiltu Sorsa) were quite good at differentiating genotypes. The combined analysis data revealed non-significant (P > 0.05) differences for plant height and thousand seed weight, but significant (P ≤ 0.05) differences for days to flowering, days to maturity, number of branches, leaf to steam ratio, number of pods, and number of seeds across the tested environments. The results showed that, out of all the examined locations, G-11620 (15.43 t/ha) and G-14486 (11.12 t/ha) had the highest forage dry matter production. It was observed that the leaf to steam ratio was higher in both G-11486 and G-11620. All chemical compositions across tested genotypes were found to be significantly different (p ≤ 0.05) in the study of composite chemical compositions, with the exception of DOMD and IVDMD, which did not reveal significant (p >0.05) variations among genotypes. The recorded CP content ranged from 21.15% for G-14486 to 23.50% for G-11620, with the lowest value coming from typical cheek Gabis 10.8%. The highest and the lowest NDF were recorded from G-11620 (11.2%) and Gabis (22.23%) respectively. Generally the mean performance, yield and stability of the G-11620 and G-14486 were high and stable across the tested locations. Therefore, genotypes (G-14486 and G-11620) were promoted to VVT for further evaluation and possible for release.

PSV-26 Use of Garlic Drench in the Modulation of Galectin Gene Expression in St Croix Sheep

Abstract St. Croix sheep are parasite resistant and can live in a wide variety of climates. Dietary supplements can influence innate immunity. Garlic (Allium sativum) is used as an immune modulator and an alternative antibiotic. Lectins in garlic could interfere with animal lectins such as Galectins (Gals). Galectins bind β-galactosides and modulate pathological processes and immunity. The effect of garlic drench on Gal (1,3,9) gene expression in sheep blood was evaluated. All protocols were approved by the IACUC. Clinically healthy, adult St. Croix sheep were divided into two groups. The treatment group (n = 6) was drenched with 5 mL garlic barrier at a rate of 10 mL diluted in sterile distilled water 1:1. The control group (n = 6) was drenched with 10 mL sterile distilled water for four weeks. Cells and plasma were separated by centrifugation of whole blood. The concentration of total plasma protein was determined using the BCA assay kit (Pierce). Secretion of Galectins 1,3,9 was evaluated using Sheep-specific ELISA(My-BioSource). Data were analyzed using SAS Statistical analysis software 9.4 (SAS Institute). Nucleic acid purity and concentrations were assessed using the Nanodrop spectrophotometer. Galectin gene transcription was evaluated using sheep Gal 1,3 and 9 specific primers commercially sequenced (Eurofins Genomics). The house keeping genes, Ribosomal Protein Lateral Stalk Subunit P0 and Ubiquitin C-Terminal Hydrolase L5, were used as internal controls. Samples were amplified in duplicate using the CFX Connect real-time PCR system. The Livak Method was used to calculate the fold change in gene expression. Galectin 1, 3, and 9 were transcribed and translated. Transcription and translation were differentially affected by garlic. Galectin 1 transcription increased; secretion decreased. Galectin 3 transcription and secretion increased at P < 0.05. There was no change in the transcription of galectin 9, however, secretion was increased. Thus, garlic drench deferentially impacted transcription and secretion of structurally distinct Gal in sheep blood. Further studies are needed to determine the effect of Garlic on Gal-mediated functions important to sheep health and production.

PSV-25 Effect of Garlic on Galectin 3 in Goats

Abstract The objective of this study was to determine the effect of garlic extracts on expression of Galectin 3 in goats. Inflammatory diseases such as mastitis and gastrointestinal parasitic diseases cause significant problems for goat production. Galectins (Gal) are a family of highly conserved mammalian carbohydrate-binding proteins that can regulate inflammation. Galectin-3 is the only member of the lectin family with a chimeric structure. It is a potential therapeutic target to regulate the activity of inflammatory cells. Garlic extracts are natural anti-inflammatory agents that are being evaluated for use in goat management. Twelve adult female clinically healthy Boer X Spanish goats were divided into 2 groups. The treatment group (n = 6) was drenched with a 10 mL garlic (Garlic barrier) and the control group (n = 6) was given sterile water for 30 days. Blood was collected weekly from the jugular vein using acid citrate dextrose as an anticoagulant. Blood was centrifuged to separate cells and plasma. Galectin 3 secretion in plasma was determined using goat specific commercial ELISA kits (My-BioSource). Total RNA was isolated from the cell pellet using Trizol and it was then converted into cDNA. Primers specific for goat Gal 3 specific and the housekeeping genes RPLP0 and UCHL5 (Eurofins Genomics) were used in Real-time PCR to evaluate the gene expression. Fold change was calculated using the Livak method. All variables were assessed using SAS Statistical analysis software version 9.4 (SAS Institute) at P < 0.05. Treatment had an effect over time and a significant increase (P < 0.0141) was observed in the GAL- 3 concentrations. Gal-3 was expressed in greater amounts in treatment group animals compared with the control group with a fold change of 1.15. Garlic may be used to modulate Gal 3 expression and secretion in goat blood. It is important to consider the impact of garlic on Gal 3 modulation. Studies needed to define possible impacts on immune function and goat health.

Effect of drying methods and soaking of Ascorbic acid on the chemical content and specific qualities of oil in lemongrass leaves Cymbopogon citratus L.

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) is an herb that belongs to the genus Cymbopogon of aromatic grasses and contains volatile oil with a fine lemon flavor. There needs to be more information on how drying affects the chemical content and specific qualities promoting the properties of the leaves. Hence, this study sought to investigate the effect of different drying methods and soaking with ascorbic acid on the chemical content and specific qualities of oil in the leaves of the lemongrass plant. An experiment was applied according to the CRD design. The experiment included two factors. The first factor was soaking with ascorbic acid at a (0.5) g / L concentration for 15 minutes. In addition to a non-soaking treatment and the second factor, the drying methods (solar drying, shadow drying, electric oven drying at a temperature of 40 °C for 8 hours) and the comparison by soft weight. The following characteristics were measured (percentage of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, volatile oil, oil density and oil refractive index), and the results were statistically analyzed using the SAS statistical analysis program. The mean of the coefficients was compared according to the Duncan polynomial test. The results showed significantly superior drying in the oven over other treatments, as well as superior soaking of ascorbic over non-soaking treatment and gave the interference (drying in the oven + soaking with ascorbic) the highest averages of the studied traits amounted to (2.3806)% for nitrogen and (2.691)% for potassium and (1.092)% for volatile oil and (0.879) mg/microliter of volatile oil density. The differences between these drying methods selection were significant variations in the oil content of lemongrass leaves and election in obtaining high-quality products. Essential oil compositions have also been observed to depend on the drying conditions. However, the order of preference of the drying methods that ensure adequate retention of chemical content and volatile oil of the leaves, as observed in this study, is oven drying > shadow drying > sun drying >, in the order of decreasing magnitude. Keywords: lemongrass, drying methods, ascorbic, chemical composition.

Evaluation of Rhodes Grass (Chloris Gayana) Cultivars for Forage Yield and Yield Components at Highland and Midland of Guji Zone Southern Oromia

The study was conducted with the objectives to identify and select better adaptable, higher herbage yielding forage variety. Five Rhodes grass cultivars (Masaba, ILRI- 6633, ILRL-7384, ILRL-13325 and Dz-253) were used and arranged in RCBD with three replications. All agronomic characteristics and biomass yield data were collected and the collected data were analyzed using SAS statistical analysis version 9.1. The results of analyzed data indicated that dry matter yield was showed statistically significant (P<0.05) difference among Rhodes grass cultivars. Seed yield (qt/ha-1) was showed statistically significant (P<0.05) variation among the treatments at both agro-ecologies. The highest herbage dry matter yield and seed yield were recorded from ILRI-7384 (15.44 t/ha-1) followed ILRI-6633 (14.9 t/ha-1). The highest seed yield at high land agro-ecologies were recorded from ILRI-6633 cultivar 1 (qu/ha-1) and Masaba 0.83 (qu/ha-1) variety. As a result, these three Rhodes grass ILRI-6633, ILRI-7384 and Masaba variety were recommended for livestock producers as feed resources to enhance animal production and productivity in the study areas and other with similar agro-ecologies.

Health economic burden of COVID-19 in Saudi Arabia.

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has added a massive economic burden on health care systems worldwide. Saudi Arabia is one of the numerous countries that have been economically affected by this pandemic. The objective of this study was to provide real-world data on the health economic burden of COVID-19 on the Saudi health sector and assess the direct medical costs associated with the management of COVID-19. A retrospective cohort study was conducted based on data collected from patients hospitalized with COVID-19 across 10 institutions in eight different regions in Saudi Arabia. The study calculated the direct medical costs of all cases during the study period by using SAS statistical analysis software. These costs included costs directly related to medical services, such as the health care treatment, hospital stays, laboratory investigations, treatment, outcome, and other related care. A total of 5,286 adult patients admitted with COVID-19 during the study period were included in the study. The average age of the patients was 54 years, and the majority were male (79%). Among the COVID-19 patients hospitalized in a general ward, the median hospital length of stay was 5.5 days (mean: 9.18 days), while the ICU stay was 4.2 days (mean: 7.94 days). The total medical costs for general ward and ICU patients were US$ 38,895 and US$ 24,207,296.9, respectively. The total laboratory investigations ranked as the highest-cost services US$ 588,975 followed by treatment US$ 3,886,509.8. Overall, the total cost of all medical services for patients hospitalized with COVID-19 was US$ 51,572,393.4. This national study found that COVID-19 was not only a serious concern for patients but also a serious economic burden on the health care system in Saudi Arabia.

Spread and Development of Alveolar Echinococcosis in Germany, 1992-2018

Alveolar echinococcosis (AE) is a rare parasitosis caused by the pathogen Echinococcus multilocularis. There is an increase in the number of cases in many countries. The aim of the study was to investigate the current prevalence and the change in the geographical distribution pattern. Data were collected retrospectively for the period 1992-2018 using the registered cases in the national disease register for AE in Germany. Statistical analysis was performed using the SAS statistical analysis system version 9.4 (SAS Institute, Cary, N.C., USA). The study population of n=569 patients included n=322 (56,59%) women and n=247 (43,40%) men. The mean average age of patients with alveolar echinococcosis at first presentation was 53,90±17,54 years (median: 56,00 years). The Moran's I test statistic showed a positive spatial autocorrelation for the period 1992-2018 corresponding to a heterogeneous distribution of disease cases in Germany (I=0,4165; Z=10,9591, p=0,001). An increase in age- and sex-specific prevalence could be determined for the entire study period (1992-2018). The overall prevalence in the period 1992-2018 was 0,71 cases per 100,000 population. The determination of the prevalence for the period 1992-2018 resulted in 0,31 cases for men and 0,40 cases for women per 100,000 population. In the period 1992-1996, no AE cases had been registered in 11/16 (68,8%) federal states (Berlin, Brandenburg, Bremen, Hamburg, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Rheinland-Pfalz, Saarland, Sachsen, Sachsen-Anhalt, Schleswig-Holstein und Thüringen). The evaluation recently shows an increased occurrence of cases in the federal states of Hessen, Rheinland-Pfalz and Nordrhein-Westfalen. The analysis shows a rise in prevalence and an increasing number of cases outside the classic endemic areas of Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria.

Acclimatization of Tissue Culture Pineapple Plantlet Using Semi-Autotrophic Hydroponics Technique in Comparison with Other Conventional Substrates

Aims: Previously conventional substrates consisting of topsoil mixtures have produced low yield and low survival rate of the tissue culture plantlets. Semi-Autotrophic Hydroponics (SAH) technique is being compared with Sawdust (SD) and Topsoil (TS) as a suitable method of acclimatization and further rooting of the plantlets. This research is aimed at optimizing the protocol for acclimatization of tissue culture pineapple plantlets.
 Study Design: Experimental Research Design.
 Place and Duration of Study: The experiment was conducted at the Biotechnology Research Unit, Tissue Culture Laboratory, National Horticultural Research Institute, Jericho-Idi-Ishin, Ibadan. Feb 2021 – April 2021.
 Methodology: The technique employed was a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with 10 samples per treatment in 6 replicates. 5 treatments were investigated in this research. Data analysis was done with the use of SAS statistical analysis software (p<0.05).
 Fresh crowns of Ananas comosus (pineapple) were extracted and were cultivated in test tubes containing full MS media. The plantlets were sub-cultured twice, after which they were taken into the hardening chamber. The plantlets were acclimatized in the Semi-Autotrophic Hydroponics substrate and other substrates – Topsoil(TS), Sawdust(SD), Sawdust + Topsoil (3:1), and Sawdust + Topsoil (1:3).
 Results: The result shows that the mean difference in Plant Height and Root Length for SAH substrate was significant as against other substrates used in this study (p<0.05) with SAH having the highest value of 3.50cm for plant height and 2.53cm for root length. A 100% survival rate was observed for the plantlets grown SAH media as compared to the ones acclimatized on Topsoil and Sawdust combinations which showed a 50% survival rate. There was no significant difference in the number of leaves among all the groups of substrates.
 Conclusion: In conclusion, SAH media is a very effective media for the hardening and acclimatization of micro-propagated plantlets.

P–224 Multinucleated and non-multinucleated embryos in PGT-A cycles: Is there any difference?

Abstract Study question Is multinucleation during cleavage stage correlated with the ploidy status of embryos and how does it affect the clinical outcome? Summary answer The presence of multinucleated embryos does not affect clinical outcome, although the risk of aneuploidy is higher in multinucleated embryos. What is known already Multinucleated blastomeres (ΜΝ) of cleavage stage embryos has been reported widely in scientific literature. Multinucleation has been associated with diminished embryo developmental competency and clinical outcomes such as lower implantation. Although this is an intriguing subject of research, it is not clear yet whether multinucleation is related to aneuploidy. Morphological irregularities such as multinucleation in blastomeres became a constant finding only after the perpetually evolving technology of time-lapse culture of embryos which in combination with PGT-A analysis, creates new research paths which aim to develop a new tool for selection or deselection of embryos for transfer. Study design, size, duration This retrospective study, included 97 PGT-A cycles, performed at Embryolab fertility clinic from May 2017 to December 2020, all cultured in time-lapse incubator (EmbryoScope). Two study groups were formed; the MN Group consisted of PGT-A cycles with at least one multinucleated embryo (n = 56) and the Control Group in which all PGT-A cycles had no multinucleated embryos (n = 38). Euploidy rate, type of chromosomal abnormality, cumulative pregnancy and live birth rates were compared between the two groups. Participants/materials, setting, methods Embryos were annotated for the existence of multinucleated blastomeres on Day 2 of their development. Biopsy was performed on Days 5/6 and embryos were genetically tested. One or two euploid embryos were transferred. Euploidy rate and clinical outcomes between the two groups were compared. Within the MN group, euploidy rate between multinucleated and non-multinucleated embryos was compared. For abnormal embryos, association of multinucleation with the type of abnormality was tested. SAS statistical analysis was performed. Main results and the role of chance Mean female age was 35.93 years in the MN group and 38.39 years in the control group. Blastocyst formation rate (expressed per fertilised oocytes) was similar between MN and Control group (74% vs 76%, p = 0.6303). In the MN group, 56 cases resulted in 44 embryo transfers while in the control group 38 cases resulted in 23 embryo transfers. Pregnancy rates (59.09% vs 65.21%, p = 0.6255) and clinical pregnancy rates (45.45% vs 39.13%, p = 0.4245) were not significantly different between MN and Control group. Initially, cumulative live birth rate was found to be significantly higher in the MN group compared to the Control group (62.96% vs 33.34%, p = 0.0417). However, when logistic and poisson regression was applied, it became obvious that this difference was not affected by multinucleation but from other factors such as female age. When comparing multinucleated and non-multinucleated embryos within the MN group, it was found that the mean number of euploid embryos was significantly higher in the non-multinucleated subgroup of embryos (p = 0.0021). No correlation was found between multinucleation and the type of chromosomal abnormality. Limitations, reasons for caution The sample size is the main limitation of the present study. More research with bigger sample size is needed in order to confirm the finding of the present study. Wider implications of the findings: The present study suggests that multinucleated blastomeres during embryo development is not an indication for diminished blastocyst formation and does not affect the clinical outcomes. However, within a sibling embryo population, non-multinucleated embryos tend to be euploid and this finding can be used to advance embryo selection efficiency. Trial registration number Not applicable

Characterization of Carcass Color Differences Between Hen (Small Birds) and Meat-Type (Large Birds) Pheasant Lines Associated with Freezing

ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to determine the cause of why hen carcasses turn red on freezing in contrast to meat-type male pheasants.Materials and MethodsHen pheasant carcasses (n = 5) that were visibly red on the outside and larger meat-type pheasants (n = 5, not red) from the same harvest day at a commercial plant were obtained. The frozen carcasses in their original, sealed plastic bag were brought to the University of Wisconsin Meat Science Laboratory and stored in a –25°C freezer prior to being semi-thawed for about 24 h (4°C). Breast muscles (M. pectoralis major) were collected, cut into similar sections (approx. 2.5 cm × 2.5 cm × 1.5 cm), vacuum-packaged in a Nylon/PE vacuum bag, and stored in the –25°C freezer. The frozen samples were ground (9.5 mm plate). Skins were trimmed of excessive fat prior to pulverization in liquid nitrogen. Instrumental color, pH, proximate composition, myoglobin content (myoglobin-based methodology, Mb), and muscle fiber type determination were conducted. All data were analyzed using the PROC MIXED procedure of the SAS statistical analysis software. Dependent variable means were separated (P < 0.05) by pairwise comparisons using the PDIFF option.ResultsHens exhibited greater redness (CIE a*, 4.87) and were darker (CIE L*, 53.33) than the meat-type pheasants (CIE a*, 4.31 and CIE L*, 55.74) on frozen/semi-thawed breast muscles (P < 0.05), whereas no difference was observed in the yellowness (CIE b*) between the different pheasant types (P > 0.05). The highest pH (6.38) and Mb (1.89 mg/g) values were obtained from the skin of the hen carcasses compared to the skin of the meat-type pheasants (pH 6.21, Mb 1.22 mg/g). In addition, the breast muscle of the hens had a higher pH and Mb content. The hen skin exhibited the highest moisture and protein content as well as a lower fat content than the skin from meat-type pheasants. The intermediate fiber (IIA) type was the only type found in the pectoralis major muscles, regardless of the different pheasant types.ConclusionThe results of the current study reveal that hen carcasses had more red pigmentation and exhibited significantly higher pH values, redness, and Mb level than the meat-type pheasants. In this regard, a higher pH might suggest hens were more stress-susceptible which produced the darker red meat. Also, higher ultimate pH values could protect myoglobin and hemoglobin from denaturation. A major part of the darkening might be related to the lower amount of fat within the skin which may have facilitated transparency to the darker, more red breast muscle. Genetics or production practices differences did not appear to alter muscle fiber types. Our findings suggest that the more intense red appearance may be associated with the presence of hemoglobin rather than myoglobin. Future evaluation of the effects of soaking pheasant skin with various pH solutions and scalding variations on the physicochemical properties of collagen may merit investigation.

Methods for Determining the Tetrachoric Correlation Coefficient for Binary Variables

The tetrachoric correlation coefficient (rt) is a special case of the statistical covariation between two variables measured on a dichotomous scale, but assuming an underlying bivariate normal distribution. Our goal was to provide an analysis of seven different methods used to calculate rt. The rt approximation was then used to derive its standard error and its associated confidence interval. Computation of rt is not straightforward and is usually not available in standard statistical packages. This paper introduces seven methods for computing the rt value and three methods used to provide the standard error estimation {SE(rt)}. These methods were illustrated using data from questionnaires that were used to evaluate public awareness regarding Electronic Waste hazards. The different algorithmic/mathematical methods used to estimate rt and SE(rt) yielded values that were equal to (or very close to) each other and the estimates obtained from SAS statistical analysis software. Method 6 and Method 1 used to estimate rt and SE(rt) work very well, the equations are easy to understand, are computationally simple and are ideally suited for use. Additionally, the width of the confidence intervals for these methods are equal to (or closely approximates) the widths calculated by the SAS statistical analysis computer program.

Examining graduate skills in accounting and finance

While many universities have implemented various initiatives and teaching and learning methods to embed the most in-demand skills into their degree programmes, there is little evidence in the literature of students’ opinions and awareness of these skills. The purpose of this article is to assess, through an empirical study, students’ perceptions of the skills commonly identified in the literature as important for the field of accounting and finance. A total of 462 surveys were collected and analysed using the SAS statistical analysis tool. According to the findings, the most important graduate skills are communication skills, followed by analytical skills and self-management. The findings also reveal that the language of instruction is statistically significant for a few graduate skills, including interpersonal, planning and organization, communication, self-management and analytical skills. Age is statistically significant for critical thinking skills and gender is statistically significant for leadership, technological and communication skills.

Variabilidade espacial de atributos químicos do solo cultivado com soja sob plantio direto

During the 2012/2013 agricultural year, in the city of Campo Novo do Parecis, MT, the study aimed to analyze the spatial variability of soybean and of the fertility attributes of Typic Tropudox under no-tillage. The sampling grid for data collect was installed in an area of 5.0 ha. The productivity of soybeans, plant population, organic matter, P, Ca+2, Mg+2, K+, Al+3, H+ + Al+3, pH (CaCl2), sum bases, cation exchange capacity and base saturation were evaluated. A classic descriptive analysis was carried out with the help of the SAS statistical software, correlation and regression analysis with Excel and semivariograms were then modeled for all attributes, giving the respective cross-validations and kriging charts with the GS+ 7.0 software. Most surveyed attributes presented spatial dependence, and modeled their semivariograms by predominantly Gaussian type. The geostatistical ranges used for the attributes analyzed should not be less than 43.8 m, being the distance at which the attribute values are related to each other. The study of the variability of soil attributes and the adoption of techniques that help in the management of soil, such as geostatistics, is essential to proper plant development.

Durability of Expanded Physician Assistant Training Positions Following the End of Health Resources and Services Administration Expansion of Physician Assistant Training Funding.

The purpose of this study was to assess the number of Health Resources and Services Administration Expansion of Physician Assistant Training (EPAT)-funded physician assistant (PA) programs planning to maintain class size at expanded levels after grant funds expire and to report proposed financing methods. The 5-year EPAT grant expired in 2015, and the effect of this funding on creating a durable expansion of PA training seats has not yet been investigated. The study used an anonymous, 9-question, Web-based survey sent to the program directors at each of the PA programs that received EPAT funding. Data were analyzed in Excel and using SAS statistical analysis software for both simple percentages and for Fisher's exact test. The survey response rate was 81.48%. Eighty-two percent of responding programs indicated that they planned to maintain all expanded positions. Fourteen percent will revert to their previous student class size, and 4% will maintain a portion of the expanded positions. A majority of the 18 programs (66%) maintaining all EPAT seats will be funded by tuition pass-through, and one program (6%) will increase tuition. There was no statistical association between the program type and the decision to maintain expanded positions (P = .820). This study demonstrates that the one-time EPAT PA grant funding opportunity created a durable expansion in PA training seats. Future research should focus on the effectiveness of the program in increasing the number of graduates choosing to practice in primary care and the durability of expansion several years after funding expiration.

Eye health attention of children with developmental disorders in early intervention services: barriers and facilitators

Objective: To identify factors that influence on the early detection of visual impairment and in early intervention onset for children with developmental disorders. Methods: The study consisted of a exploratory and descriptive survey, which included the use of questionnaires with institutional representatives, professional team of early intervention and mothers or caregivers of children served in these services. The data received statistical analysis through software SAS Statistical Analysis System 9.3, Wolfram Mathematica and Microsoft Excel. The sample consisted of 434 subjects (19 institutional representatives, 142 professionals of the early intervention services and 273 mothers/ caregivers of children served). Results: The results showed statistical values of p=0.0119 for the realization of eye test with regard to the beginning of early intervention. The mother receive guidance on the development of vision obtained values of p-value=0.0106 for early intervention start and values of p=0.0061 for the first visit to the ophtalmologist. Conclusion: Realise the eye test constitutes as a facilitating factor for the onset of early intervention and have an exclusively visual impairment and attend private institution as a barrier. Late entry into early intervention service adversely affects the age of first ophthalmologic consultation.The mother receive guidance on the development of vision showed as a facilitating factor for the first visit to the ophtalmologist and start of timely intervention.The field of eye health constitutes as public health demand and requires attention to actions and educational programs directed to families, professionals and institutional managers who provide services to children.

Abstract 2435A: Identification and treatment data of xenografts representing TCGA-defined glioblastoma subtypes

Abstract The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) Network recently catalogued recurrent genomic abnormalities in glioblastoma (GBM). This genomic profiling led to the molecular classification of GBMs into four subtypes: Proneural, Neural, Classical and Mesenchymal. The importance of identifying these subtypes stands to help researchers and clinicians to better understand GBMs with the potential to personalize treatment options and explore different therapeutic approaches that each subtype may require. As such, the development of patient derived xenograft models that represent each TCGA subtype serves to expedite the testing of targeted molecular therapeutic strategies for the treatment of GBMs. For this project, we established xenografts using patient derived tissue and passaged these xenografts until reliable growth characteristics were obtained. Established GBM xenografts were classified into TCGA-defined subtypes first by obtaining global gene expression data using the GeneChip Human Genome U133A 2.0 array from Affymetrix. Microarray data was then quantile normalized and probes were summarized as gene expression levels using RMA. Then data was log2 transformed and genes median centered. Xenografts were subsequently classified into one of four previously defined subtypes as described using Classification to the Nearest Centroid (ClaNC) with the TCGA GBM data as the training dataset. Using established xenografts from each subtype, a panel of standard of care treatment agents was assessed by delay in tumor growth and by tumor regression in athymic mice bearing subcutaneous tumors. Statistical analysis was performed using a personalized SAS statistical analysis program, the Wilcoxon rank order test for growth delay, and Fisher's exact test for tumor regression. To date we have identified at least 2 patient derived xenografts for each TCGA-defined subtype. These xenografts lines have realiable growth patterns with a tumor take of 80+%. Drug testing has been completed and includes tumor growth responses to the following single agents: temozolomide, bevacizumab, BCNU, cytoxan, irinotecan, carboplatin, erlotinib, CCNU, procabazine and vincristine. The identification of these valid xenograft models represents an important contribution toward the ability of studying GBM subtypes, in particular for modeling and predicting therapeutic response. We have currently completed the first round of drug testing within each subtype and look to expand testing to include additional agents as well as select combinations. Citation Format: Stephen T. Keir, B. Ahmed Rasheed, Katherine A. Hoadley, Martin A. Roskoski, Danuta Gasinski, Madan M. Kwatra, Henry S. Friedman, Darell D. Bigner. Identification and treatment data of xenografts representing TCGA-defined glioblastoma subtypes. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 106th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2015 Apr 18-22; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2015;75(15 Suppl):Abstract nr 2435A. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2015-2435A

Spatial Correlation Analysis of 2013 Per capita GDP in the Area of Beijing, Tianjin and Hebei

This paper is based on the Moran's I coefficient and Geary's c coefficient, and with the support of SAS statistical analysis software, using the spatial analysis of Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei’s per capita GDP and Geographical coordinates together. The research results show that the Moran's I coefficient is 0.098, Geary's c coefficient is 0.868, which is showing that there is a positive correlation between Beijing-Tianjin- Hebei region’s city economy. But the degree of correlation is low, which is showing that Beijing-Tianj-Hebei collaborative development is still in the initial stage, and regional economic integration has not fully realized.

Abstract 838: Establishment, identification and treatment data of TCGA glioblatoma xenograft subtypes

Abstract The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) Network recently catalogued recurrent genomic abnormalities in glioblastoma (GBM). This genomic profiling lead to the molecular classification of GBMs into four subtypes: Proneural, Neural, Classical and Mesenchymal. The importance of identifying these subtypes helps researchers and clinicians to better understand GBMs with the potential to personalize treatment options and explore different therapeutic approaches that each subtype may require. In addition, the TCGA identified possible mechanisms that can cause some GBM tumors to become resistant to therapy, including the standard of care alkylating agent temozolomide (TMZ). For this project, we established xenografts using patient derived tissue and passaged these xenografts until reliable growth characteristics were obtained. Established GBM xenografts were classified into TCGA-defined subtypes first by obtaining global gene expression data using the GeneChip Human Genome U133A 2.0 array from Affymetrix. Microarray data was then quantile normalized and probes were summarized as gene expression levels using RMA. Then data was log2 transformed and genes median centered. Xenografts were subsequently classified into one of four previously defined subtypes as described using Classification to the Nearest Centroid (ClaNC) with the TCGA GBM data as the training dataset. Using established xenografts from each subtype, a panel of standard of care treatment agents (including TMZ) was assessed by delay in tumor growth and by tumor regression. Statistical analysis was performed using a SAS statistical analysis program, the Wilcoxon rank order test for growth delay, and Fisher's exact test for tumor regression. Data regarding each xenografts BRAF, EGFR, EGFRvIII, IDH1, PIK3CA, PIK3R1, PTEN, RB1, TERT and TP53 status is reported within. The identification of these valid xenograft models represents an important contribution toward the ability of studying GBM subtypes, in particular for modeling and predicting therapeutic response. Citation Format: Stephen T. Keir, B Ahmed Rasheed, Katherine A. Hoadley, Martin A. Roskoski, Danuta Gasinski, Patrick J. Killela, Hai Yan, Madan M. Kwatra, Henry S. Friedman, Darell D. Bigner. Establishment, identification and treatment data of TCGA glioblatoma xenograft subtypes. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 105th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2014 Apr 5-9; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2014;74(19 Suppl):Abstract nr 838. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2014-838

IDENTIFICATION AND PRELIMINARY TREATMENT DATA OF XENOGRAFTS REPRESENTING TCGA-DEFINED SUBTYPES

BACKGROUND: The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) Network recently catalogued recurrent genomic abnormalities in glioblastoma (GBM). This genomic profiling lead to the molecular classification of GBMs into four subtypes: Proneural, Neural, Classical and Mesenchymal. The importance of identifying these subtypes stands to help researchers and clinicians to better understand GBMs with the potential to personalize treatment options and explore different therapeutic approaches that each subtype may require. As such, the development of preclinical xenograft models that represent each TCGA subtype serves to expedite the evaluation of targeted therapeutic strategies for the treatment of GBMs. METHODS: For this project, established xenografts from patient derived tissue were passaged until reliable growth characteristics were obtained. Established GBM xenografts were classified into TCGA-defined subtypes first by obtaining global gene expression data using Affymetrix. Microarray data was then normalized and probes were summarized as gene expression levels using RMA. Then data was log2 transformed and genes were median centered. Xenografts were subsequently classified into one of four previously defined subtypes as described using Classification to the Nearest Centroid (ClaNC) with the TCGA GBM training dataset. Using established xenografts from each subtype, a preliminary panel of treatment agents was assessed by delay in tumor growth and by tumor regression in athymic mice bearing subcutaneous tumors. Statistical analysis was performed using a personalized SAS statistical analysis program, the Wilcoxon rank order test for growth delay, and Fisher's exact test for tumor regression. RESULTS: To date, our lab has established and identified 2 patient derived xenografts for each TCGA-defined subtype. These xenografts lines have reliable growth patterns with a tumor take rate >80%. Phase I drug testing has been completed and includes tumor growth responses to the following single agents: temozolomide, bevacizumab, BCNU, cytoxan, and irinotecan. CONCLUSIONS: A panel of patient derived xenografts with reliable growth characteristics that represent the four TCGA-defined GBM subtypes has been established and utilized for drug evaluation. The identification of these valid xenograft models represents an important contribution for modeling and predicting therapeutic response. We have currently completed the first round of drug testing within each subtype and look to expand testing to include additional agents as well as select combinations. SECONDARY CATEGORY: n/a.