Significant Differences In Height Research Articles

LOCAL MANIFESTATION OF TEMPERATURE INVERSIONS AND ITS IMPACT ON AGRICULTURE OF MIDDLE PRYDNISTERIA

The article describes in detail the phenomenon of temperature inversions using the Ternava River canyon (Middle Prydnisteria) as an example. Reverse frosts are one of the most dangerous agrometeorological phenomena. They can occur as a result of temperature inversions. Their manifestation is uneven and depends on the local conditions of the area, especially the topography. The relevance is that on the basis of such studies, a comprehensive assessment of the thermal regime and taking into account the influence of temperature inversions on the development of agricultural crops can be carried out. The conducted research is at the intersection of scientific and practical research in a number of spheres of economic and scientific activity. The territory of the study is the territory of an orchard, near the settlement of Kytaygorod, where a gentle slope turns into a sharp ledge of the Ternava river terraces. The purpose of the research is to record the temperature difference during the night in each of the points in order to understand the mechanism of atmospheric air movement during the formation of temperature inversions. An inversion is a phenomenon when the air temperature in some layer increases with height, instead of decreasing. Inversions affect the development of atmospheric processes and have stable stratification, and their power is small. In the conditions of the variegated topography of the Middle Prydnisteria, it is most often possible to find the manifestation of radiation temperature inversions, which arise as a result of the nocturnal radiation cooling of the earth's surface and the adjacent air layer. They begin to form immediately after sunset, intensifying during the night and reaching maximum values in the morning. In our case, the situational factors contributing to the formation of a temperature inversion are the lowering of the relief in the river valley, where cool air can descend and accumulate. An important factor is the significant height difference, which contributes to the differentiation of air temperature with a significant amplitude. Our studies proved that the temperature difference between the upper and lower parts of the canyons can reach more than 5 °С. The measurements carried out on October 10 and 11, 2023 showed that the air temperature in the evening before sunset in the upper part of the slope was 7.8-7.9 °C, and at the bottom of the canyon it was 8.6 °C, which, in our opinion, is due to stronger heating canyon walls, which in this part have a western direction. At 21:00, at the bottom of the canyon, the air temperature drops to a level lower than at the top of the slope, which corresponds to the "classic" course of temperature inversion formation, during which, in the absence of wind, cold air descends into the relief. Further measurements show that the temperature differentiation of the air increases, and in the lowest areas the air temperature reaches negative values. The impact of temperature inversions on agriculture depends on the conditions and phases of plant development, as well as the level of temperature reduction in a specific area. The greatest impact of temperature inversions occurs when the air temperature drops to sub-zero values, as cold air remains near the surface where plants are located. This is especially important for gardens and vegetable gardens, as well as field depressions, where sensitive plants can suffer from negative temperatures. Low temperatures can damage buds, flowers and fruits, which can affect yield and product quality. Reducing the negative impact of low temperatures is a rather difficult and extremely necessary task for many branches of crop production. This need is especially acute in viticulture, horticulture and vegetable growing. In the conditions of Middle Prydnisteria, the main way to combat negative temperature indicators caused by temperature inversions is to use the territory taking into account its relief features and hardening of plants. The practical significance of scientific research lies in expanding the possibilities of adapting modern agriculture to global climate changes, developing preventive measures to combat frosts, and solving the tasks of agrometeorological maintenance of agricultural production. Key words: temperature inversions, radiation inversions, advective inversions, microclimate, Middle Prydnisteria.

Paleoclimatic and paleogeographic significance of the early Santonian ice-rafted dropstones in the Songliao Basin, NE China

Two ice-rafted dropstones were discovered in the Yaojia Formation (early Santonian) of wells Ao14 and F247 in the Songliao Basin, northeastern China. The dropstone from well Ao14 was further studied using computed tomography (CT) scanning, sporopollen, carbon and oxygen isotope, and zircon U–Pb isotope analyses. The results show that the dropstone is composed of quartz monzonite and has an age of 178.0 ± 3.3 Ma. Based on the bedrock age analysis around the Songliao Basin, it is suggested that the dropstone in well Ao14 may have originated from the Zhangguangcai Range. The palynoflora assemblage indicates a mixed survival of cold and warm palynomorphs. The carbon and oxygen isotope compositions of the synsedimentary calcareous clasts surrounding the dropstone exhibit obvious negative biases, suggesting that glacier meltwater flowed into the paleo-lake, probably due to the significant topographic height difference between the Songliao Basin and adjacent areas during the early Santonian. Additionally, it can be inferred that coastal mountains formed in the Zhangguangcai Range area, which is located southeast of the Songliao Basin, and the dropstones derived from this region. During the cold season, the dropstones may be transported to the edge of Songliao Lake by avalanche and mixed with carbonate debris. As the seasons changed, the lake ice broke into pieces and carrying the dropstones and carbonate debris into the deep lake area. The present research provides direct evidence of a brief global cold event and the presence of high mountains in the southeastern Songliao Basin during the early Santonian in the Cretaceous greenhouse world.

What Did the Ideal Beauty of the 15th Century Look Like? An Anthropometric Analysis of Botticelli Portraits.

The aim of this study was to conduct an anthropometric analysis of the 5 portraits painted by Botticelli that depict Simonetta Vespucci. Five images in the Simonetta series by Botticelli workshop were measured. The anthropometric measurements of the face included 22 parameters on the lateral view (in 4 portraits; 18 distances and 4 angles) and 17 distances on the frontal view (in one portrait), which were measured using Adobe Photoshop. The absolute distances were calculated relative to the vertical corneal diameter (10.6mm), which was calculated by multiplying the distance from the pupil's center to the lower margin of the iris. In the lateral faces, the nasofrontal angle (g-n-prn) was 157.6±2.4 degrees, and the nasal tip angle (n-prn-sn) was 99.7±3.4 degrees. The nasolabial angle (prn-sn-ls) was 125.7±4.9 degrees, and the labiomental angle (li-sl-pg) was 131.6±4.4 degrees. The ratio of the upper lip height to the lower lip height (sn-sto/sto-sl) was 85.4±9.0%. The ratio of the upper lip vermillion to the upper lip height (ls-sto/sn-sto) was 27.7±3.9%. The ratio of the lower lip vermillion to the lower lip height (sto-li/sto-sl) was 47.2±6.6%. Comparing the data with 21st-century Italian females, forehead II height (tr-n), physiognomical face height (tr-gn), and morphologic face height (n-gn) of the beauties of the 15th century were significantly greater than those of 21st-century Italian females. However, there were no significant differences in lower face height (sn-gn) and nose height (n-sn). Considering the ongoing cultural relevance of Renaissance art, the esthetic proportions from this study may have reflection to the present day plastic surgery.

The impact of microplastics polystyrene on the microscopic structure of mouse intestine, tight junction genes and gut microbiota.

Microplastics, which are tiny plastic particles less than 5 mm in diameter, are widely present in the environment, have become a serious threat to aquatic life and human health, potentially causing ecosystem disorders and health problems. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of microplastics, specifically microplastics-polystyrene (MPs-PS), on the structural integrity, gene expression related to tight junctions, and gut microbiota in mice. A total of 24 Kunming mice aged 30 days were randomly assigned into four groups: control male (CM), control female (CF), PS-exposed male (PSM), and PS-exposed female (PSF)(n = 6). There were significant differences in villus height, width, intestinal surface area, and villus height to crypt depth ratio (V/C) between the PS group and the control group(C) (p <0.05). Gene expression analysis demonstrated the downregulation of Claudin-1, Claudin-2, Claudin-15, and Occludin, in both duodenum and jejunum of the PS group (p < 0.05). Analysis of microbial species using 16S rRNA sequencing indicated decreased diversity in the PSF group, as well as reduced diversity in the PSM group at various taxonomic levels. Beta diversity analysis showed a significant difference in gut microbiota distribution between the PS-exposed and C groups (R2 = 0.113, p<0.01), with this difference being more pronounced among females exposed to MPs-PS. KEGG analysis revealed enrichment of differential microbiota mainly involved in seven signaling pathways, such as nucleotide metabolism(p<0.05). The relative abundance ratio of transcriptional pathways was significantly increased for the PSF group (p<0.01), while excretory system pathways were for PSM group(p<0.05). Overall findings suggest that MPs-PS exhibit a notable sex-dependent impact on mouse gut microbiota, with a stronger effect observed among females; reduced expression of tight junction genes may be associated with dysbiosis, particularly elevated levels of Prevotellaceae.

FruitPhenoBox – a device for rapid and automated fruit phenotyping of small sample sizes

BackgroundFruit appearance of apple (Malus domestica Borkh.) is accession-specific and one of the main criteria for consumer choice. Consequently, fruit appearance is an important selection criterion in the breeding of new cultivars. It is also used for the description of older varieties or landraces. In commercial apple production, sorting devices are used to classify large numbers of fruit from a few cultivars. In contrast, the description of fruit from germplasm collections or breeding programs is based on only a few fruit from many accessions and is mostly performed visually by pomology experts. Such visual ratings are laborious, often difficult to compare and remain subjective.ResultsHere we report on a morphometric device, the FruitPhenoBox, for automated fruit weighing and appearance description using computer-based analysis of five images per fruit. Recording of approximately 100 fruit from each of 15 apple cultivars using the FruitPhenoBox was rapid, with an average handling and recording time of less than eleven seconds per fruit. Comparison of fruit images from the 15 apple cultivars identified significant differences in shape index, fruit width, height and weight. Fruit shape was characteristic for each cultivar, while fruit color showed larger variation within sample sets. Assessing a subset of 20 randomly selected fruit per cultivar, fruit height, width and weight were described with a relative margin of error of 2.6%, 2.2%, and 6.2%, respectively, calculated from the mean value of all available fruit.ConclusionsThe FruitPhenoBox allows for the rapid and consistent description of fruit appearance from individual apple accessions. By relating the relative margin of error for fruit width, height and weight description with different sample sizes, it was possible to determine an appropriate fruit sample size to efficiently and accurately describe the recorded traits. Therefore, the FruitPhenoBox is a useful tool for breeding and the description of apple germplasm collections.

Performance and egg quality traits of local chickens across different agroecologies in the Kewot district, North Shewa zone, Northern Ethiopia

This study was conducted to evaluate the performance (productive and reproductive) potential and egg quality traits of local chickens (LCs) across different agroecologies (AEs) in the Kewot district, North Shewa zone, northern Ethiopia. A multistage sampling technique was used to select the study sites and households (HHs). The data were collected through semi-structured questionnaires, monitoring and measurements. A total of 147 HHs were included in this study. Ninety brooding hens were monitored to determine hatchability and survivability percentages. A body weight of 120 LCs was measured at the market centres. Furthermore, the egg quality traits of 120 freshly laid eggs were evaluated. The data were analysed by a statistical package for social sciences (version 20). In the study area, the average flock size of the LC/HH populations was 9.90 ± 0.36. The most common flock type was chicks, followed by pullets, with significantly lower (p < 0.05) in the lowland (LL) AE. The mean age at first egg of females and the mean age at sexual maturity of males were 6.05 ± 0.06 and 5.68 ± 0.08 months, respectively. The numbers of eggs per clutch and per year were 14.29 ± 0.40 and 50.02 ± 1.51, respectively. There was no significant difference (p > 0.05) in the average number of clutches/hen/year across AEs, while significantly lower (p < 0.05) numbers of eggs per clutch and per year were recorded for highland (HL) AEs than for LL agro-ecology. The mean hatchability percentage was 80.94 ± 1.69%. The mean market body weights of the male and female LCs were 0.91 ± 0.05 and 0.82 ± 0.05 kg, respectively. There were significant differences (p < 0.05) in egg weight, egg width, shell thickness, shell ratio, albumen height, albumen and yolk weight, yolk colour, and Haugh unit (HU) between the AEs. The results revealed that the performance potential and egg quality traits of the LC in the study district were somewhat poor. Therefore, AE-specific development interventions should be designed and implemented to improve the performance potential and egg quality traits of LC in the study area.

ПОВЫШЕНИЕ ПРОДУКТИВНОСТИ ПЕРЦА СЛАДКОГО ПРИ НЕКОРНЕВОЙ ПОДКОРМКЕ МИК-РОУДОБРЕНИЕМ «КАЛЬБИТ С»

The purpose of research is to study the effect of microfertilizer Kalbit C on the formation of the productivity of sweet pepper variety Podarok Moldovy and to establish the optimal dose of the agrochemical for foliar feeding in the irrigated conditions of the Volga delta. The object of research is the liquid innovative calcium chelate complex Kalbit C – a microfertilizer based on calcium in combination with ammonium lingosulfanate (LSA) containing calcium in a form that is easily accessible for consumption by plants. The choice of agrochemical was based on the importance of calcium in providing pepper plants during the frui¬ting phase. Data are presented on the study of the influence of microfertilizer Kalbit C on the growth and development of sweet pepper plants, the formation of the structure and size of the crop, the biochemical composition of fruits when grown in the Volga delta under drip irrigation. The main biometric indicators of sweet pepper plants with three times foliar feeding were determined and significant differences in plant height, increase in the number of leaves and leaf surface were noted. In the variants with fertilizing, the height of the plants exceeded the control by 7.3–15.8 %; by the number of leaves – by 17.3–22.6; by leaf area – by 16.6–25.3 %. The most optimal was the use of microfertilizer Kalbit C by three times foliar fee¬ding with a consumption of 1050 ml/ha, which increased the yield by 23.2 %; average fetal weight – by 11.2; the number of fruits set – by 10.2 %. Based on the results of the biochemical composition, it was revealed that the fruits of the sweet pepper variety Podarok Moldovy accumulated dry matter on average 8.08–8.24 %, total sugars – 5.48–5.79 %, ascorbic acid – 35.9–39.2 mg%, nitrates – 74.7–83.8 mg/kg (MPC – 200 mg/kg).

Effect of Water and Rice Husk Ratio in Water-Based Planting Medium on Growth of Three Rice Varieties (Oryza sativa L.)

The agricultural sector faces two serious threats: declining production due to agricultural land conversion and water shortages due to global warming. Therefore, an agricultural system that accommodates the use of vacant land and water saving, in this case, urban farming with the use of soil-less media can be applied. In recent studies, both innovations have shown positive results in various commodities but have not been explored much specifically for rice crops. This study observed the effect of soilless media application (mixed water and rice husks media) on the growth of rice. This experiment was conducted in Sumber Jeruk, Jember (altitude 281 m asl, temperature 21-31°C, RH 65-75%), January-June 2022. The experiment used a completely randomized design with two factors and three replications. The first factor was the ratio of water to rice husk (1:0; 4:1; and 8:1). The second factor was rice varieties (Inpari 46, IR 64, and Mapan 05). The combination of Mapan 05 and media ratio 4:1 showed the highest result on shoot fresh weight (351.95 g) and root fresh weight (346.35 g). Meanwhile, the highest number of root length (45.20 cm) was found in the combination of Mapan 05 and media ratio 8:1. Moreover, Mapan 05 (93.94 cm) and Inpari 46 (93.88 cm) showed no significant difference in plant height. It can be concluded that soil-less media 8;1 promotes the highest result on rice plant growth observed.

Assessing the Impact of Coated and Prilled Urea Fertilizers on Nitrogen Dynamics and Fodder Maize Yield in Alfisols

The study investigates the impact of different urea fertilizers on nitrogen mineralization, leaching losses, and growth, yield of fodder maize in Alfisols. Nitrogen is vital for plant growth but deficient in soils. Urea, a widespread nitrogen fertilizer, suffers from significant losses, prompting the development of controlled-release urea (CRU) fertilizers. This study assesses various urea formulations with coated urea and prilled urea. Laboratory incubation studies show that coated urea exhibits slower NH4+-N release, reducing losses and improving efficiency compared to uncoated urea. Nitrate content increases steadily periodically with coated urea, potentially enhancing nitrogen availability to plants. Greenhouse experiments reveal significant differences in plant height, leaf number, and leaf area among treatments. Coated urea formulations, chiefly CSPC @3%, demonstrate superior growth parameters (plant height-169.56cm, number of leaves-10.33 and leaf area-1850.59), yield (green fodder-328.25 gplant-1, dry fodder-198.61 gplant-1 and dry matter percentage-54.52) and quality parameters (crude protein-4.03, total ash content-3.82%) compared to prilled urea growth parameters (plant height-113.38cm, number of leaves-8.07 and leaf area-1670.98), yield (green fodder-246.26 gplant-1, dry fodder-116.35 gplant-1 and dry matter percentage-44.32) and quality parameters (crude protein-2.88, total ash content-2.75%), likely due to sustained nitrogen release. Higher nitrogen availability from coated urea leads to increased forage yield and quality. The findings suggest that coated urea fertilizers, specially CSPC @3% advocate improved nitrogen management, enhancing fodder maize productivity and sustainability.

Biochar and Azolla Effects on Soil Chemical Properties, Lead Content and Growth of Paddy

The objective of the study was to determine the influences of biochar amendments and Azolla sp application on soil chemical value, lead (Pb) content, and growth of paddy. The research was conducted in Growth Centre LLDIKTI I, Medan, Sumatera Utara, Indonesia, from April to July 2014. The research design used a factorial randomized block design with three replications. The first factor was Azolla sp application: without Azolla (A0); Azolla pinnata (A1); Azolla mikropilla (A2)] and the second factor was biochar amendment without biochar (B0); RSB-Rice straw biochar (B1), RHB-Rice husk biochar (B2), CPB-coconut peat biochar (B3), OPB-Oil Palm Empty Bunch biochar (B4)]. The result showed that the biochar amendment treatments had significant differences (P&lt;0.05) in all soil chemical values and growth parameters of paddy. The Azolla application showed significant differences (P&lt;0.05) in plant height, number of tillers, shoot dry weight, root dry weight, and Pb content in the root. The interaction among the Azolla sp and the biochar amendments showed significant differences (P&lt;0.05) in a number of the tillers. It was concluded that the application of rice husk biochar and Azolla microphylla was able to increase soil chemical properties, increase the growth of paddy, and also increase the Pb content in soil, leaves, and roots.

Analysis of Wave Characteristics near Wangdeungdo through Southwest Sea Wave Hindcasting

Wave conditions are crucial for offshore wind farm design, particularly in determining structural loads and layout. However, there is limited wave hindcasting research for the Wangdeungdo Island area, a potential offshore wind site. This study used the MIKE21 model for a year-long wave hindcast around Wangdeungdo in 2021. Validation showed high reproducibility for significant wave heights with RMSE values of 0.177 and 0.225 and Pearson correlations of 0.971 and 0.970 at Sangwangdeungdo and Buan buoys. Subsequent analysis of the wave characteristics near Wangdeungdo indicated significant seasonal variations and differences in maximum significant wave heights across locations, which are expected to significantly impact the design loads for offshore wind structures.

Efficacy analysis of OLIF combined with posterior percutaneous internal fixation in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis with or without redundant nerve roots

To investigate the clinical efficacy of oblique lumbar interbody fusion(OLIF) combined with posterior percutaneous internal fixation in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis with or without redundant nerve roots(RNRs). A retrospective analysis of 92 patients with lumbar spinal stenosis treated by oblique lateral lumbar interbody fusion combined with posterior percutaneous internal fixation from June 2019 to June 2022 was performed. There were 32 males and 60 females, aged from 44 to 82 years old with an average of (63.67±9.93) years old. All patients were divided into RNRs positive group and RNRs negative group according to redundancy or not before operation. There were 38 patients in RNRs positive group, including 15 males and 23 females. The age ranged from 45 to 82 years old with an average of (65.45±10.37) years old. The disease duration was 24.00(12.00, 72.00) months. There were 54 patients in RNRs negative group, including 17 males and 37 females. The age ranged from 44 to 77 years old with an average of (62.42±9.51) years old. The disease duration was 13.50(9.00, 36.00) months. The general data of patients were recorded, including operation time, intraoperative blood loss and complications. The imaging parameters before and after operation were observed, including the number of stenosis segments, intervertebral space height, lumbar lordosis angle and dural sac area. The visual analogue scale (VAS) was used to evaluate the back and lower extremity pain, and the Oswestry disability index (ODI) was used to evaluate the activities of daily living. All patients were followed up for 8 to 18 months with an average of (11.04±3.61) months, and no complications were found during the follow-up period.The number of stenosis segments in RNRs positive group (1.71±0.46) was more than that in RNRs negative group(1.17±0.38). In RNRs positive group, intervertebral space height, dural sac area, low back pain VAS, lower extremity pain VAS, ODI score were (1.11±0.19) cm, (0.46±0.17) cm2, (5.39±1.00) scores, (5.05±1.01) points, (55.74±4.05) points, respectively. RNRs negative groups respectively (0.97±0.23) cm, (0.69±0.26) cm2, (4.50±0.77) scores, (4.00±0.58) scores, (47.33±3.43) %. In RNRs positive group, intervertebral space height, dural sac area, low back pain VAS, leg pain VAS, ODI score were (1.60±0.19) cm, (0.74±0.36) cm2, (3.39±0.72) scores, (3.05±1.01) scores, (46.74±4.82) scores, respectively. RNRs negative groups respectively (1.48±0.25) cm, (1.12±0.35) cm2, (3.00±0.82) scores, (3.00±0.82) scores, (37.67±3.58) %. The postoperative intervertebral space height, dural sac area, low back pain VAS score, lower extremity pain VAS and ODI score of the patients in the RNRs positive group and the negative group were significantly improved compared with those before operation, and the differences were statistically significant (P<0.05). There were statistically significant differences in the number of stenosed segments, preoperative intervertebral space height, dural sac area, low back pain VAS, lower extremity pain VAS, and ODI between the two groups(P<0.05). There were significant differences in postoperative intervertebral space height and postoperative ODI between the two groups(P<0.05), but there was no significant difference in intervertebral space height before and after operation and ODI score before and after operation(P>0.05). There were significant differences in operation time, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative dural sac area, difference of dural sac area before and after operation, postoperative low back pain VAS, difference of low back pain VAS score before and after operation, difference of lower extremity pain VAS before and after operation between the two groups(P<0.05). OLIF combined with posterior percutaneous internal fixation has a good effect on patients with or without RNRs. Multi-segmental lumbar spinal stenosis and decreased dural sac area may lead to the occurrence of RNRs, and LSS patients with RNRs have more severe symptoms. LSS patients with RNRs have worse surgical outcomes than those without RNRs.

Changes in Cellular Morphology in Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid of Children with Mycoplasma Pneumoniae Pneumonia

Objective To study changes of cell morphology in BALF in children with Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (MPP). Methods From December 2021 to May 2022, a group of 32 children diagnosed with Acute MPP and admitted for treatment in the Pediatrics Department and PICU of the First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University were selected for our study. These patients underwent bronchoalveolar lavage as part of their clinical assessment. For comparison, we included a control group comprising 10 children who were not infected but had bronchial foreign bodies. We investigated the cellular composition in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) using Wright-Giemsa staining and microscopic evaluation, aiming to understand the relationship between shifts in cell proportions and extra-pulmonary symptoms associated with MPP. Results In this study, a total of 42 cases were enrolled, with 32 cases in the study group and 10 cases in the control group. There were no statistically significant differences in gender, age, height, weight, and BMI between the two groups (p &gt; 0.05). The study group exhibited significantly higher levels of neutrophil percentage (GRA%), CRP, D-dimer, and LDH in blood routine tests compared to the control group (p &lt; 0.05). Furthermore, the proportions of neutrophils (%) and macrophages (%) in BALF were significantly higher in the study group compared to the control group (p&lt; 0.05), while the proportion of lymphocytes (%) in BALF showed no statistically significant difference between the two groups (p&gt; 0.05). Conclusion In the acute phase of MPP in children, BALF is predominantly composed of neutrophils. A lower proportion of lymphocytes in BALF is associated with a higher incidence of extra-pulmonary manifestations and longer hospitalization duration.

Growth and Production Stimulation of Young Pink Oyster Mushrooms (Pleurotus flabellatus) through CaCO3 Supplementation from Shellfish Shells and Coconut Water

Pink oyster mushroom (Pleurotus flabellatus) is one of the oyster mushroom varieties that has a distinctive aroma similar to lingzhi mushroom, pink color, numerous clusters, and a slightly firm texture. The aim of this research was to determine the growth and production stimulation of pink oyster mushrooms (P. flabellatus) through supplementation of CaCO3 from shellfish shells and coconut water. This study utilized a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) arranged in factorial with two factors, consisting of four levels with three replications. The first factor was CaCO3 supplementation from shellfish shells with four levels: K0: 0 gr/baglog, K1: 5 gr CaCO3 from shellfish shells/baglog, K2: 10 gr CaCO3 from shellfish shells/baglog, K3: 15 gr CaCO3 from shellfish shells/baglog. The second factor was coconut water supplementation with four levels: A0: 0 ml/baglog, A1: 20 ml coconut water/baglog, A2: 40 ml coconut water/baglog, A3: 60 ml coconut water/baglog. The results showed significant differences in mycelium growth rate and highly significant differences in pileus number, pileus width, pileus thickness, stalk height, and mushroom fresh weight. Supplementation of 10 gr CaCO3 from shellfish shells/baglog and 40 ml coconut water/baglog showed the best interaction for all parameters.

Physical attributes and performance differences: Server vs. spiker players in men’s doubles sepak takraw

Background Problems: Scientific research exploring the comparative analysis of the physical, physiological, and anthropometric characteristics associated with the server and spiker positions in double-category sepak takraw remains relatively scarce. Research Objectives: This study aims to compare the physical, physiological, and anthropometric characteristics between players in the server and spiker positions in the double category of sepak takraw. Methods: The research method used is an observational study with a quantitative approach. This study consisted of 18 male sepak takraw athletes, with 9 athletes each playing as servers and 9 athletes playing as spikers. The statistical analyses were conducted utilizing the SPSS Version 22 application. Findings and Results: The results of this study showed that there were statistically significant differences in body height, aerobic capacity, and leg strength between server and speaker positions (p &lt; 0.05). Meanwhile, there were no significant differences in the variables age, weight, BMI, fat percentage, speed, agility, and flexibility. Dynamic, attractive game requirements and manoeuvres in the air for players in the spiker position have the potential to contribute to superior VO2max values and increased leg muscle strength compared to players in the server position. Conclusion: The conclusion of this study is that athletes in the spiker position show superior anthropometric and physiological attributes compared to those in the server position. Different understandings of the different characteristics associated with each position in the sport of sepak takraw provide new insights and views for coaches and athletes themselves. In addition, it is hoped that this research will have implications for optimizing training programs that adapt to the demands of each position. Furthermore, these findings serve as a reference for talent search events that assist in the identification and development of athletes with optimal physiological profiles for their respective roles in double-category sepak takraw.

Impact of bilateral facet joint violation on radiographic degeneration of superior adjacent segments and clinical outcomes.

Facet joint violation (FJV) is associated with postoperative low-back pain and is a confirmed risk factor for adjacent-segment degeneration, a long-term complication of lumbar fusion surgery. The authors' knowledge of its mechanisms comes from in vitro biomechanical research only; there is a lack of radiographic evidence of the effects of violation on the superior adjacent-segment facet joint, intervertebral disc, and other local radiographic parameters. Furthermore, any differences between unilateral and bilateral violation remain relatively unclear. The authors therefore aimed to explore the effects of nonviolation and unilateral and bilateral violation on radiographic degeneration of the facet joint and intervertebral disc at the fusion and superior adjacent segment. Patient-reported clinical outcomes were compared at the 2-year follow-up. The authors retrospectively analyzed data from 148 patients with lumbar degenerative diseases who underwent single-segment minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion between 2016 and 2020. FJV and facet joint degeneration were evaluated and graded using Shah's method and Pathria's standard, respectively. Radiographic parameters, including disc height and intervertebral Cobb angle at the fusion and superior adjacent segment, were measured. Clinical outcomes were evaluated using visual analog scale (VAS) and Japanese Orthopaedic Association scores. Preoperative data were comparable among the 3 groups (nonviolation, unilateral violation, and bilateral violation) (p > 0.05). Patient-reported clinical outcomes were followed up for at least 2 years (average duration 28.17 ± 6.17 months). At the last follow-up, facet joint degeneration grades were sequentially increased in the nonviolation, unilateral violation, and bilateral violation groups (p = 0.006). The unilateral (2.45 ± 2.17 mm) and bilateral (2.70 ± 1.94 mm) violation groups had more severe losses of disc height in the superior adjacent segment than did the nonviolation group (1.31 ± 2.01 mm). The VAS low-back pain and Japanese Orthopaedic Association scores in the bilateral (2.57 ± 1.44 and 19.83 ± 2.84, respectively) and unilateral (2.26 ± 0.79 and 20.43 ± 3.85, respectively) violation groups were significantly worse than in the nonviolation group (1.69 ± 1.12 and 21.80 ± 3.36, respectively) (p < 0.05). By contrast, there were no significant between-group differences in disc height, intervertebral Cobb angle in the fusion segment, or VAS leg pain scores (p > 0.05). FJV was associated with postoperative low-back pain and worse functional outcomes. It also aggravated facet joint and intervertebral disc changes in the superior adjacent segment, especially when bilateral violation occurred; this may be part of the mechanisms of adjacent-segment degeneration.

Disproportion of Corpus Callosum in Fetuses With Malformations of Cortical Development.

To evaluate corpus callosum (CC) size in fetuses with malformations of cortical development (MCD) and to explore the diagnostic value of three CC length (CCL) ratios in identifying cortical abnormalities. This is a single-center retrospective study in singleton fetuses at 20-37 weeks of gestation between April 2017 and August 2022. The midsagittal plane of the fetal brain was obtained and evaluated for the following variables: length, height, area of the corpus callosum, and relevant markers, including the ratios of corpus callosum length to internal cranial occipitofrontal dimension (CCL/ICOFD), corpus callosum length to femur length (CCL/FL), and corpus callosum length to cerebellar vermian diameter (CCL/VD). Intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) was used to evaluate measurement consistency. The accuracy of biometric measurements in prediction of MCD was assessed using the area under the receiver-operating-characteristics curves (AUC). Fetuses with MCD had a significantly decreased CCL, height (genu and splenium), and area as compared with those of normal fetuses (P < .05), but there was no significant difference in body height (P = .326). The CCL/ICOFD, CCL/FL, and CCL/VD ratios were significantly decreased in fetuses with MCD when compared with controls (P < .05). The CCL/ICOFD ratio offered the highest predictive accuracy for MCD, yielding an AUC of 0.856 (95% CI: 0.774-0.938, P < .001), followed by CCL/FL ratio (AUC, 0.780 (95% CI: 0.657-0.904), P < .001), CCL/VD ratio (AUC, 0.677 (95% CI: 0.559-0.795), P < .01). The corpus callosum biometric parameters in fetuses with MCD are reduced. The CCL/ICOFD ratio derived from sonographic measurements is considered a promising tool for the prenatal detection of cortical malformations. External validation of these findings and prospective studies are warranted.

Evaluation of the Efficacy and Safety of Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate in Intercepting Mother-to-Child Transmission of Hepatitis B Virus.

Vertical transmission of hepatitis B virus (HBV), especially in Asia, is a key target in the global elimination of HBV. This study assessed the effects of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) in pregnant women for mother-to-infant transmission of HBV. A total of 122 pregnant women at our hospital met the inclusion criteria for high HBV DNA viral loads. They were randomly divided into TDF-treatment (n=70) and placebo (n=52) groups. Maternal liver function and serum HBV DNA load were tested before and after treatment. Clinical and laboratory data of infants were assayed at delivery and 7-months post-partum visit and compared between the two groups. There was no difference in clinical characteristics of participants between the two groups. There were no significant differences in liver function markers, including alanine aminotransferase, total bilirubin, blood creatinine, and blood urea nitrogen levels before and after TDF treatment. The serum HBV DNA viral load of the TDF-treated group became significantly lower than those of the control group and their own pre-medication levels. Infants showed no significant difference in body growth, including weight, height, head size, and five-min Apgar score. At 7 months after birth, 94.29% of infants in the TDF group and 86.54% of control-group infants had protective HBsAb levels ≥ 10 mIU/ml (p>0.05). The HBV infection rate of infants in the TDF-treated group was lower than that in the non-treated group. In high-HBV-DNA-load pregnant women, TDF administered from 28 weeks gestational age to delivery was associated with a lower risk of mother-to-infant transmission of HBV.

Distribution, Accumulation and Translocation of the Heavy Metal Cd in Various Varieties of Edible Rapeseed under Cd Stress

To examine the safety of producing edible rapeseed in heavy-metal-contaminated farmland, field experiments were performed with 25 varieties of edible rapeseed on farmland lightly polluted with Cd in the central southern part of Hunan Province. Growing characteristics and Cd contents in rapeseed tissues were measured, and Cd uptake, translocation and removal potential were calculated. The results showed that the growth of 25 rapeseed varieties was not inhibited without withering or inconsistent changes in the shoot. The shoot and root Cd contents of rapeseed varieties ranged from 0.05 to 0.26 mg·kg−1 and 0.04 to 0.26 mg·kg−1, respectively. The bioaccumulation factor (BCF) showed that the shoot had a greater capacity for Cd transport than roots. The total Cd removed by rapeseed varieties ranged from 1.606 to 16.159 μg·plant−1. There were significant differences in plant height, BCF of soil available Cd in the shoot, translocation factor (TCF) of Cd from root to shoot and Cd intake by rapeseed among the edible rapeseed varieties. Cluster analysis of Cd accumulation in the 25 rapeseed varieties indicated that Lvjin 1, Guanyou Qingjing and Guanyou brassica not only reduced soil pollution but also allowed for the production of safe leafy rapeseed, although Cd contents in the shoot of 25 rapeseed varieties did not exceed the national safety standards of China.

Evaluation of the Off-season Production of Bulb Onion (Allium cepa L.) in Mongar

Bulb onion is one of the important commercial crops cultivated by the farmers in all the districts, and onion has been identified as one of the mandatory vegetable crops in Bhutan. The crop requires about five to six-month growing period from sowing till harvest. The harvest season coincides with the onset of the monsoon season and post-harvest losses due to high humidity and poor post-harvest management are high. With steady demand for the crop throughout the year and low domestic production, the current production cannot meet the market demand. Hence, substantial quantities of bulb onion are imported. Promotion of off-season bulb onion production with the harvest season during the dry season could minimize post-harvest losses and make it available in the market all year round. The objective of this experiment was to evaluate two bulb onion varieties, namely Pune Red and Pink onion 1358 for off-season production. The experiment was conducted at Lingmethang (600 masl) and Wengkhar (1650 masl) in the 2022 cropping season in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications and two treatments. The results indicate a significant difference (P &lt; 0.05) in bulb height, weight, plant height, and neck diameter but no significant difference in bulb width. The maximum bulb weight 306.7 g was recorded at the Lingmethang station in the Pink 1358 variety. The yield obtained was 18.68 MT/acre for Pink 1358, 19.20 MT/acre for Pune Red at Lingmethang station, and 13.35 MT/acre for Pink 1358, 13.08 MT/acre for Pune Red at Wengkhar station. However, there was no significant difference (P &gt;0.05) in yield in both stations. This study found that bulb onion production is feasible between August to March months in the mid-elevations upto 1650 masl. However, the best location for bulb onion production would be in the lower elevation where the yields are higher compared to the mid-elevation.