Significant Effect Of Location Research Articles

Sensory Factors Influence Dynamic and Static Bi-Manual Finger Grip Strength in a Real-World Task Context

Individual grip strength provides a functional window into somatosensory processes and their effects on motor behaviour in healthy, impaired, and ageing individuals. Variations in grip strength during hand–tool interaction are therefore exploited in a variety of experimental tasks to study the effects of pathology or ageing-related changes on sensory, motor, and cognitive ability. However, many different factors may influence individual grip strength systematically in a given task context without being explicitly identified and controlled for. Grip strength may vary as a function of the location of the measurement device (sensor) on the fingers/hand, the shape, weight and size of object(s) being gripped, the type of grip investigated (static versus dynamic grip), and the hand (dominant versus non-dominant) used for gripping. This study tests for additional factors such as sight, sound, and interactions with/between any of the other factors in a complex task context. A wearable biosensor system, designed for measuring grip strength variations in operators gripping cylindrical objects bi-manually, was used. Grip force signals were recorded from all sensors of the wearable (glove) system, including three directly task-relevant sensors for bi-manually gripping cylindrical objects with the dominant and non-dominant hands. Five young male participants were tested for the effects of sound, movement, and sight on grip strength. The participants had to pick up two cylindrical objects of identical size and weight, then hold them still (static grip) or move them upwards and downwards (dynamic grip) for ten seconds while listening to soft or hard music, with their eyes open or blindfolded. Significant effects of sensor location, hand, movement, sight, and sound on bi-manual grip strength were found. Stronger grip force signals were produced by task-relevant sensors in the dominant hand when moving the cylindrical handles (dynamic grip) in comparison with the static grip condition, depending, as expected, on whether grip signals were measured from the dominant or the non-dominant hand. Significantly stronger grip strength was produced blindfolded (sight condition), and grips were significantly stronger with exposure to harder music (sound factor). It is concluded that grip strength is significantly influenced by sensory factors and interactions between the other factors tested for, pointing towards the need for identifying and systematically controlling such potential sources of variation in complex study task contexts.

Peripheral Neural Synchrony in Postlingually Deafened Adult Cochlear Implant Users.

This paper reports a noninvasive method for quantifying neural synchrony in the cochlear nerve (i.e., peripheral neural synchrony) in cochlear implant (CI) users, which allows for evaluating this physiological phenomenon in human CI users for the first time in the literature. In addition, this study assessed how peripheral neural synchrony was correlated with temporal resolution acuity and speech perception outcomes measured in quiet and in noise in postlingually deafened adult CI users. It tested the hypothesis that peripheral neural synchrony was an important factor for temporal resolution acuity and speech perception outcomes in noise in postlingually deafened adult CI users. Study participants included 24 postlingually deafened adult CI users with a Cochlear™ Nucleus® device. Three study participants were implanted bilaterally, and each ear was tested separately. For each of the 27 implanted ears tested in this study, 400 sweeps of the electrically evoked compound action potential (eCAP) were measured at four electrode locations across the electrode array. Peripheral neural synchrony was quantified at each electrode location using the phase-locking value (PLV), which is a measure of trial-by-trial phase coherence among eCAP sweeps/trials. Temporal resolution acuity was evaluated by measuring the within-channel gap detection threshold (GDT) using a three-alternative, forced-choice procedure in a subgroup of 20 participants (23 implanted ears). For each ear tested in these participants, GDTs were measured at two electrode locations with a large difference in PLVs. For 26 implanted ears tested in 23 participants, speech perception performance was evaluated using consonant-nucleus-consonant (CNC) word lists presented in quiet and in noise at signal to noise ratios (SNRs) of +10 and +5 dB. Linear Mixed effect Models were used to evaluate the effect of electrode location on the PLV and the effect of the PLV on GDT after controlling for the stimulation level effects. Pearson product-moment correlation tests were used to assess the correlations between PLVs, CNC word scores measured in different conditions, and the degree of noise effect on CNC word scores. There was a significant effect of electrode location on the PLV after controlling for the effect of stimulation level. There was a significant effect of the PLV on GDT after controlling for the effects of stimulation level, where higher PLVs (greater synchrony) led to lower GDTs (better temporal resolution acuity). PLVs were not significantly correlated with CNC word scores measured in any listening condition or the effect of competing background noise presented at an SNR of +10 dB on CNC word scores. In contrast, there was a significant negative correlation between the PLV and the degree of noise effect on CNC word scores for a competing background noise presented at an SNR of +5 dB, where higher PLVs (greater synchrony) correlated with smaller noise effects on CNC word scores. This newly developed method can be used to assess peripheral neural synchrony in CI users, a physiological phenomenon that has not been systematically evaluated in electrical hearing. Poorer peripheral neural synchrony leads to lower temporal resolution acuity and is correlated with a larger detrimental effect of competing background noise presented at an SNR of 5 dB on speech perception performance in postlingually deafened adult CI users.

The dark side of social capital: Geographic differences in COVID-19 preventive behaviors among older adults in South Korea.

The present study examined whether geographic location (i.e., rural vs. urban areas) moderated the relationship between social capital and COVID-19 preventive behaviors among older adults in South Korea. Participants were a nationally representative sample of 61 075 Korean adults aged 65 years or older from the 2021 Community Health Survey by the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency. The moderation analysis was conducted with PROCESS. After adjusting for covariates, the moderation analysis showed a significant moderation effect of geographic location on the relationship between social capital and COVID-19 preventive behaviors among older adults in South Korea. Specifically, in urban areas, older adults with higher social capital were more likely to adhere to COVID-19 preventive behaviors. However, social capital negatively impacted older adults' COVID-19 preventive behaviors in rural areas. Findings suggest that social capital is not always helpful for maintaining COVID-19 preventive behaviors among older adults in South Korea. The social characteristics of geographic location need to be considered when initiating COVID-19 prevention campaigns in South Korea. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 377-384.

Genotype by environment and genotype by yield*trait interactions in sugar beet: analyzing yield stability and determining key traits association

The genotype by environment interaction significantly influences plant yield, making it imperative to understand its nature for the creation of breeding programs to enhance crop production. However, this is not the only obstacle in the yield improvement process. Breeders also face the significant challenge of unfavorable and negative correlations among key traits. In this study, the stability of root yield and white sugar yield, and the association between the key traits of root yield, sugar content, nitrogen, sodium, and potassium were examined in 20 sugar beet genotypes. The study was conducted using a randomized complete block design with four replications over two consecutive years across five locations. The combined analysis of variance results revealed significant main effects of year, location, and genotype on both root yield and white sugar yield. Notably, two-way and three-way interactions between these main effects on root yield and white sugar yield resulted in a significant difference. The additive main effect and multiplicative interaction analysis revealed that the first five interaction principal components significantly impacted both the root yield and white sugar yield. The linear mixed model results for root yield and white sugar yield indicated that the genotype effect and the genotype by environment interaction were significant. The weighted average absolute scores of the best linear unbiased predictions biplot demonstrated that genotypes 20, 4, 7, 2, 16, 3, 6, 1, 14, and 15 were superior in terms of root yield. For white sugar yield, genotypes 4, 16, 3, 7, 5, 1, 10, 20, 2, and 6 stood out. These genotypes were not only stable but also had a yield value higher than the total average. All key traits, which include sugar content, sodium, potassium, and alpha amino nitrogen, demonstrated a negative correlation with root yield. Based on the genotype by yield*trait analysis results, genotypes 20, 19, and 16 demonstrated optimal performance when considering the combination of root yield with sugar content, sodium, alpha amino nitrogen, and potassium. The multi-trait stability study, genotype 13 ranked first, and genotypes 10, 8, and 9 were identified as the most ideal stable genotypes across all traits. According to the multi-trait stability index, genotype 13 emerged as the top-ranking genotype. Additionally, genotypes 10, 8, and 9 were recognized as the most stable genotypes.

Influence of Variety, Seedling Transplanting Age and Nitrogen Fertilizer Rates on Selected Chemical Composition of Rice Grains and Straws

The study was conducted under lowland ecological conditions at the Edozhigi and Badeggi National Cereal Research Institute (NCRI) farms in the Guinea savannah region of southern Nigeria during the 2015 and 2016 growing seasons. The objective was to determine the effect of seedling transplanting age and nitrogen fertilizer rates on nutrient content of two rice varieties. The trial was laid out in a split-split plot arrangement fitted into randomized complete block design (RBCD) and replicated three times. The treatments for the trial consisted of two rice varieties as the main factor (FARO 44 and FARO 52), the sub plot factor consisted of four seedling transplanting ages (7, 14, 21 and 28) and the sub-sub plot factor consisted of five inorganic N fertilizer rates (0, 60, 120, 180 and 240 kg N/ha). Rice grains and straw after harvest were analyzed for N, P, K, Fe and Zn content. The result of the rice grain and straw nutrient content revealed a significant effect of location on rice grain nitrogen and zinc content. Rice planted at Edozhigi gave significantly higher nitrogen and zinc content in rice grains in 2015 and 2016 planting seasons. Nitrogen fertilizer application had significant effect on rice grain nitrogen content in 2016 planting season. The result showed a significant (p<0.05) effect of variety on Zn content of rice grains. Rice variety Faro 44 produced significantly higher rice grain zinc content of 0.334 and 0.297 ppm during both planting seasons. Significantly (p<0.05) rice variety Faro 44 had higher rice straw nitrogen content of 0.172 and 0.165% in 2015 and 2016 planting seasons respectively. In conclusion, the application of 240 kg N/ha to 14 and 28 days old of Faro 44 rice variety revealed more nutrient content in rice grain and straw.

From forests to fields: investigating Culicoides (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) abundance and diversity in cattle pastures and adjacent woodlands.

Culicoides Latreille (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) biting midges are hematophagous flies that feed on wild and domestic ruminants. They can transmit arboviruses, such as bluetongue virus (BTV) and epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus (EHDV), which circulate in the United States. Larvae occupy a range of aquatic and semiaquatic habitats, and disperse short distances from their development sites. In the southeastern United States, there are limited studies on the abundance and diversity of Culicoides in wooded and adjacent livestock pasture habitats. In this study, we characterized Culicoides diversity and abundance within these distinct habitat types. BG-Sentinel and CDC miniature suction traps baited with CO2 or UV-light were placed in wooded and pasture habitats at 2 locations on a university beef farm in Savoy, Arkansas. Traps were set once per week for 9 wk during August-October of 2021 and 2022. Fifteen species were collected during this study, and the 2 most abundant species were Culicoides haematopotus Malloch and Culicoides stellifer Coquillett. There was a significant effect of site and location on C. haematopotus collections, and a significant effect and interaction of site and trap on C. stellifer collections. In the woods, significantly more C. stellifer were collected from CDC-UV traps, while in the pasture significantly more were collected in CDC-CO2 traps. These data suggest that C. stellifer, a putative vector of BTV and EHDV in the southeast, may be traveling into the pasture to host-seek, while C. haematopotus remains primarily in wooded areas. This study reveals community differences between these habitat types and implications for Culicoides control.

Warming and salinization effects on the deep-water rose shrimp, Parapenaeus longirostris, distribution along the NW Mediterranean Sea: Implications for bottom trawl fisheries

The deep-water rose shrimp is a main resource for the GSA 6 bottom trawling fleet. In the last decade, landings have increased without a clear understanding of the causes. This study aims to analyze this trend, potentially related to changes in environmental conditions. Results showed an increase in the species' landings, which spread northwards along the GSA 6. GAM models detected a significant effect of location, time, and depth on the distribution of the deep-water rose shrimp, as did for temperature and salinity. Similar values between landings and LPUE were found throughout, suggesting no effects of fishing effort in time. ANOVA tests showed a significant increase of sea bottom temperature and salinity in time, which were correlated with increasing LPUE values. Then, the trend seems to be related to environmental changes rather than changes in fishing effort. Further research is needed to implement management plans that ensure the resource sustainability.

432 Fluctuations in Equine Cutaneous Ph and Trans-Epidermal Water Loss Associated with Anatomical Location, Time, and Weather

Abstract Although skin health is of critical importance for all horse owners, understanding of cutaneous pH and trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) and the normal ranges of these variables is lacking. Cutaneous pH and TEWL measures provide insight into the barrier function of the epidermis and have the potential to determine the resident dermal microbiota. However, these measures have been recorded to fluctuate due to a variety of factors such as environment and anatomical locations in other species. Accordingly, the objectives of this study were to identify the impacts of anatomical location, weather, and time of day on cutaneous pH and TEWL in equines. This study utilized nine (n = 9) stock type mares, group-housed in a pasture setting at Southern Illinois University Equine Center. Researchers measured cutaneous pH and TEWL three times (6:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 6:00 PM) daily across five anatomical locations (nose, whither, heart-girth, mid-back, and base of tail) for five consecutive days. All statistical analysis was conducted using SAS On Demand for Academics (P < 0.05). Analysis of changes in variables associated with time, anatomical location, and day were conducted utilizing a PROC GLM three-way repeated measures ANOVA utilizing a Greenhouse-Geiser correction. Cutaneous pH results displayed significant main effects of day (P = 0.0052) and time (P = 0.0073) as well as a significant interaction of day and location (P = 0.0004). Mean cutaneous pH fluctuated daily, however, certain anatomical locations fluctuated more than others each day. Additionally, pH was highest in the morning (mean of 7.28) and lowest in the evening (mean 7.011). However, the mean overall pH for the study is 7.14 which is congruent with other work. TEWL measurements had significant main effects of day (P < 0.0001), time (P < 0.0001), and location (P = 0.0231), as well as a significant interaction of day, time, and location (P < 0.0001). TEWL measurements fluctuated with day, likely a result of weather changes. Mean TEWL measurements were less in the morning (mean 24.68) and greatest in the afternoons (mean 38.52). Overall mean TEWL measurement was 30.25. The results of this work indicate fluctuations in dermal barrier variables are associated with day, anatomical location, and time of day. These findings may have implications for applications of dermal treatments for horses as well as catalog the natural fluctuations which may affect future research.

Agronomic performance and yield stability of extra-early maturing maize hybrids in multiple environments in the Sahel

Frequent occurrence of drought, heat, low soil fertility and Striga infestation are the main stress factors reducing maize yield in the Sahel. Adoption of stable multiple stress tolerant maize cultivars in the region is crucial for achieving food security. However, selection of a stable high yielding cultivar is complicated by genotype × environment interaction (GEI) due to differential responses to growing conditions. Eleven extra-early maturing multiple-stress tolerant maize hybrids and two checks arranged in a randomized complete block design was evaluated across nine locations for two years in Mali and Niger. The objectives of this study were to identify (i) stable and high-yielding maize hybrids, and (ii) suitable test locations for selecting promising extra-early maize hybrids. GGE biplot was used for graphical analysis. Significant genotype, location and GEI effects were detected for grain yield and number of ears per plant. EEWQH-13 produced the highest grain yield (3860 kg ha−1) while EEYQH-1 had the poorest yield (2663 kg ha−1) with trial mean of 3395 kg ha−1 for all hybrids. GGE biplot explained 69.6 % of the total variation in grain yield among the hybrids. The polygon view identified EEWQH-13 as the best hybrid across six of the nine test locations. EEPVAH-58 was identified as the most stable high yielding hybrid across the nine test locations followed by EEWQH-16 and EEWQH-13. The nine locations were clustered under two mega-environments (ME1, ME2). Among the nine test locations, Tara and Aderaoua clustered in ME1 were the most suitable ones for selecting promising extra-early maize hybrids for wider adaptation. The three hybrids, EEPVAH-58, EEWQH-16, and EEWQH-13, identified in this study could be recommended for on-farm evaluation to confirm the consistency of their yield performance for possible release and commercialization in Mali and Niger.

Genotype x Environment Interaction and Oil yield Stability of Linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) Genotypes in North, Central and Southeast Ethiopia

Linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) is one of the most prominent industrial oilseed crops cultivated for both seed and fiber. Lack of stable genotypes across the linseed production area is one of the problems. Thirteen linseed genotypes were planted in randomized complete block design with three replications at six linseed major growing agro-ecologies of North, central and Southeastern Ethiopia (Werabe, D\Markos, Welkite, Holeta, Kulumsa and Adiet) in 2021/2022 cropping season. With the objectives of determining the effects of GEI, on oil yield of linseed and identifying better performing and well adapted linseed genotypes than the control variety, and to prepare for registration and release of selected high oil yielding genotypes in the different linseed agro-environment conditions of Ethiopia. The oil yield subjected to the combined analysis of variance showed a highly significant (p<0.01) effect of genotype, location, and genotype x location interactions (GLI). Similarly the combined AMMI ANOVA for oil yield revealed that there were highly significant differences among genotypes, locations and genotype by location interactions and accounted 22.11%, 31.40% and 46.49% of the total variations respectively. The highest percentages of environmental variations are an indication that environment is the major factor that influences the yield performance of linseed oil yield in Ethiopia. In addition, the first two IPCAs were significant and accounted for 80.77% of the total interactions sum squares. Six stability measures viz Eberhart and Russell analysis (bi and S2di), Additive Main Effect and Multiplicative Interaction (AMMI) model, AMMI Stability Value (ASV),Yield Stability Index (YSI),Genotype Main Effect and Genotype by Environment Interaction Effect (GGE) bi plot analysis Model were used to evaluate the stable genotypes across the testing locations. Genotypes 10097(G2), 10103 (G3) and 239716 (G7) were more stable by Eberhart and Russell analysis and AMMI Stability Value. Genotypes 10103 (G3) and 208360 (G8) were more stable by Yield Stability Index. Genotypes 208360 (G8) and 10103 (G3) were selected as better genotypes that appeared in the five and four locations by AMMI analysis, respectively. According to one-year data, the six locations are grouped into one mega environment for linseed production with one winning genotype and genotype 208360 (G8) was an ideal genotype, while location A diet was an ideal environment by GGE analysis. Genotypes 208360 (G8), 234005 (G4)and 10103 (G3) are the three of the best performing genotypes than the other genotypes and control variety (Berene) in oil yield across locations. Therefore, those three highest oil yielder genotypes have a potential to be registered in Ethiopia. However, this trail need to be repeated for one more season, and or three of the best performing genotypes will be verified along with the check on farmers' fields for release.

Phenology and yield response of wheat varieties as influenced by sowing dates at gonde and ardayita seed production farm, Ethiopia

Wheat is one of Ethiopia's main foods, contributing to daily caloric consumption. Due to environmental conditions such as distribution and length of the rainy season shifting from time to time elsewhere, particularly at Gode and Ardayita seed production farm, sowing timing and varietal selection are key factors for low yield of wheat crop. This Experiment was designed in a randomized complete block design with three-replications which contain four sowing dates, ranging from June 17 to July 18 at ten-day intervals, and four wheat varieties namely Kingbird, Hidase, Picaflor, and Ogolcho combined to form 16 treatments. According to the result, on days to heading, there was a significant interaction effect of variety and location and the highest number of days (70.42) was obtained at the Ardayita location on Kingbird variety. On the day of heading, there is also a substantial interaction effect of location and sowing date, the maximum days (72.00) were observed at Ardayita on the early sowing date (June-17). The maturity dates of the two locations varied significantly, the longer (116.17) days were recorded at Ardayita. The effect of variations on days to maturity of varieties also significant, Ogolcho variety had the highest maturity (120.04) days. Date of sowing also has a significant effect on maturity date; the highest number of days (116.96) was recorded on June 17 sowing date. The grain filling period significantly vary among the varieties, the Ogolcho variety had the highest number of days (53.25). Grain filling period also had significant variation on date of sowing; the earliest sowing date (June 17) has the longest date (49.96). On the other hand, location had no effect on the grain-filling period, plant height and seed yield. Sowing date and location significantly interact on grain yield of wheat. The maximum (6.38 ton ha-1) seed yield was recorded at Gonde location on second (June 28) sowing date and Ardayita place obtained highest yield at first sowing date (June 17). There was a significant interaction between sowing date and varieties on yield of wheat. From the result Hidasse variety obtained highest yield (6.58 ton ha-1) on the second sowing date (June 28) whereas the Ogolch variety recorded highest (6.28 ton ha-1) at the first sowing date (June 17). Res. Agric. Livest. Fish. Vol. 10, No. 2, August 2023: 133-145

Wheat Yield and Important Traits Influenced by Interaction of Potassium and Irrigation Levels Evaluated at Number of Locations in the Country by AMMI Analysis and Non-Parametric Measures

AMMI analysis of treatments consisted of levels of potassium with irrigations observed highly significant effects of locations, treatments, and T×L interactions for wheat yield. About 53.4% of the total variations in yield values was due to locations followed by 26.3% and 10.8% by treatments and interactions effects. Further analysis found 59.7% contributed by AMMI1 while 17.2% and 9.4% by AMMI2 and AMMI3 components for thousands grain weight as total of first two components cumulative to 76.9% of the total variation. The sums of squares for G×E signal and noise were 56.7% and 43.3% of interaction effects for grains per spike as the sum of squares of T×L signal was 2.58 times of treatments effects and IPC1 alone was 3.54 times the treatments effects. Measures ASV and ASV1 recommended T6, T5, T4 for wheat yield while measures utilized 81.6% of interaction sum of squares whereas MASV and MASV1 measures based on 98.4% identified T3, T5, T8, T4 treatments. Maximum average for thousands grains weight; GAI selected T8, T9, T6 whereas as per HM values treatments T5, T2, T8 would be more desirable. Grains per spike found the measures RPGV and HMRPGV settled for T8, T9, T5 treatments. Non parametric measures for yield observed Si1 selected T3, T2, T5 as opposed to T6, T4, T1 by Si2 values. T6, T4, T1 genotypes considered by Si3 Si4 measure considered T6, T4, T1 next Si5 for T6, T3, T4 and Si6 pointed towards T6, T4, T8 genotypes while Si7 favored T6, T1, T4 genotypes. Composite measures for thousands grains weight found NPi(1) for T3,T4,T7 while as per NPi(2) for T4,T3,T7, NPi(3) T4,T3,T2, NPi (4) found T4, T5, T7 as suitable treatment combinations. Multivariate hierarchical clustering as per Ward’s method for wheat yield observed first irrigation level with three potassium levels formed a cluster and other irrigation levels with potassium application remained in other one. At the first node of demarcation for thousands grains weight IPC5 exhibited MASV with MASV1, ASV1, IPC4, ASV, Si1 Si2 Si3 Si4 Si5 Si6 Si7 NPi(1), CV in one side and mean, GAI, PRVG, IPC1, HM, IPC1, NPi(2) NPi(3) NPi (4) on other side. The performance of treatments based on AMMI and non-parametric measures would be more meaningful for identification of suitable irrigation and potassium levels for wheat sustainable production.

Effects of genotype and environment on forage yield, nutritive value and morphology of lablab (Lablab purpureus (L.) sweet)

The goal of the study is to determine the effect of genotype and environment on forage yield, forage nutritive value and to determine the relation between morphology and forage yield and nutritive value of lablab. Thirteen genotypes (one local and 12 improved) were replicated 3 times in a randomized complete block trial across three locations in Ethiopian lowlands namely, Bechi, Kite and Tepi. All forage samples were analyzed for dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), and in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) using a combination of conventional nutritional analyses and near infrared reflectance spectroscopy. There was a significant (P < 0.001) effect of genotype, location and genotype*location on forage yield of DM, forage yield of CP, forage yield of IVDMD, CP, and IVDMD. The difference between means of minimum and maximum genotypes was 12.9 t/ha of DM, 3.12 t/ha CP, 8.22 t/ha IVDMD, 57 g/kg of CP and 56 g/kg of IVDMD. The correlation between plant morphology and forage yield and nutritive value was weak (r ≤ 0.41) in all locations and the combined data. Both genotype and location should be considered by the farmers when they decide to grow lablab for forage production. Morphological traits of lablab are not suitable to evaluate forage yield and nutritive value. Enhancing the awareness of farmers about the effect genetic-environment interaction effect of forage yield and nutritive value and the relation between morphology and yield and nutritive value would improve the uptake of lablab in mixed the farming system leading to more sustainable agricultural production.

Insights into the diet and trophic ecology of white sharks (Carcharodon carcharias) gained through DNA metabarcoding analyses of cloacal swabs

AbstractThe white shark (Carcharodon carcharias) is one of the world's largest apex predators found throughout the world's temperate and subtropical marine environments. However, the species has suffered significant declines in recent decades and effective conservation programs require a sound knowledge of white shark biology and ecology. In particular, information on white shark diet across life stages and the species' range is needed to identify critical trophic interactions supporting shark populations and to predict the resilience of white sharks to environmental changes. In this study, we reassess the diet and trophic ecology of white sharks via the genetic analyses of cloacal swabs from 214 juvenile and subadult sharks from eastern Australia. Our findings are largely consistent with those of previous studies based on visual analyses of gut contents but highlight the unprecedented taxonomic resolution of prey items offered by genomic assessments of shark cloacal swabs. Diets consisted primarily of ray‐finned fishes, with Mugiliformes, Carangiformes, Perciformes, and Scombriformes being dominant prey taxa, but with elasmobranchs, marine mammals, and birds also being common dietary constituents. Statistical analyses revealed a significant effect of sex and sampling location on diet composition, indicating biological and spatial variability in diets and predatory behavior. Overall, these findings support the notion that juvenile and subadult white sharks are opportunistic predators, which may provide some level of resilience to shifts in marine resources. However, frequently consumed ray‐finned fishes, many of which are commercially targeted, may be key to supporting white shark populations in eastern Australia. This study represents the most comprehensive analysis of juvenile and subadult white shark diets performed to date and provides added confidence in the genomic analysis of cloacal swabs for dietary assessments of predatory species. These results are expected to help inform management geared toward conserving this important marine predator across the world's oceans.

Rice Bran Quality Based on Physical Properties and Chemical Composition Estimation in Maros Regency, South Sulawesi

Rice bran, a byproduct generated during the rice milling process, is widely utilized as a livestock feed ingredient. However, the quality of rice bran can vary across different production regions. This study aimed to evaluate the quality of rice bran in Maros District, South Sulawesi, Indonesia, based on its physical properties and predicted nutrient contents. The study employed a completely randomized design, with ten treatments (representing rice mills from Bonto Marannu, Maccini Baji, Allepolea, Majannang, Salenrang, Turikale, Allatengae, Soreang, Baju Bodoa, and Tunikamaseang) and four replications. The data were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Duncan's multiple range test. The results revealed a highly significant effect (P&lt;0.01) of the rice mill location on the physical quality and predicted nutrient contents of rice bran. The bulk density and tapped density densities varied (P&lt;0.01) among the ten rice mills located in five sub-districts of Maros District, while the predicted crude protein and crude fiber contents also showed variation (P&lt;0.01). The highest values were observed in the rice bran from the Allatengae mill, while the lowest values were found in the rice bran from the Allepolea mill. In this study, the quality of rice bran was categorized into grades I, II, and III according to Standard Nasional Indonesia (2013), based on its physical quality and predicted nutrient contents

Elements in Soft Tissues of the Young Mediterranean Mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis Lam. 1819 Collected in Sevastopol Bay (Crimea, Black Sea): Effects of Age, Sex, Location, and Principal Morphometric Parameters.

Although the mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis has been known for decades as an excellent bioindicator of trace element pollution in the marine environment, there is still no information on the effects of a suite of its principal morphometric parameters and age on trace element levels in soft tissues. In this work, using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, we studied the contents of 72 elements in soft tissues of M. galloprovincialis aged 0.5-4, which were sampled at three stations within a relatively small water body, Sevastopol Bay. Significant effects of age and sampling location on the element contents and soft tissue dry-to-wet weight ratio were discovered. The effects of sex were not significant. It was presumed for the first time that the decrease in element content in the soft tissues of young mussels can be associated with the decrease in physiological needs for elevated contents of essential elements and intracellular water with age. Combinations of six principal morphometric parameters showed that a function of as few as three parameters (soft tissue dry weight, whole mollusk weight, and shell height, with by far the greatest contribution of the dry-to-total weight ratio) formed significant correlations with the contents of the largest possible number of elements (69-88% of the total number). For the first time, it was shown that linear discriminant analysis and canonical analysis of principal coordinates can be successfully used for tracing the exact origin of mussel samples within such a small water area. Canonical analysis of principal coordinates proved superior in the correct classification of the samples.

Agronomic Evaluation of Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) Genotypes for Tuber Yield and Yield Attributing Traits

The experiment was carried out under rain fed conditions for three consecutive years (2017–2019) from mid-June to mid-October at Bekoji and Kofele sub sites of Kulumsa Agricultural Research Center, Ethiopia by using improved varieties to identify superior genotypes. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. The results of analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed that the presence of significant (p&lt;0.05) differences among genotypes for all traits studied. Analysis of variance revealed that location by year effect had highly significant difference at (p&lt;0.01) for all traits except specific gravity which showed significant difference at (p&lt;0.05). Treatment by location showed significant difference except stem number plant-1, total yield, and specific gravity. Treatment by year showed significant differences except for days to flowering. The highest marketable tuber yield was obtained from genotype CIP 395037.107 followed by variety Belete and CIP 395015.6 genotype. Simple correlation analysis revealed that total tuber yield showed strongly and positively significant correlation with average stem number plant-1, stem height and marketable yield. Thus, it could be concluded that genotypes, year and location variations as well as their interaction had considerable influence on tuber yield and the potato’s attributes. The significant interaction effects of genotypes, location, year and positive and strong association between total yield and other traits indicates the need to test potato genotypes over season and location in order to select stable and high yielder genotypes.

The effect of different brain lesions on the reorganization of language functions within the dominant hemisphere assessed with task-based BOLD-fMRI.

Language reorganization has been described in brain lesions with respect to their location and timing, but little is known with respect to their etiology. We used fMRI to investigate the effects of different types of left hemisphere lesions (GL = gliomas, TLE = temporal lobe epilepsy and CA = cavernous angioma) on the topographic intra-hemispheric language plasticity, also considering their location. Forty-seven right-handed patients with 3 different left hemisphere lesions (16 GL, 15 TLE and 16 CA) and 17 healthy controls underwent BOLD fMRI with a verb-generation task. Euclidean distance was used to measure activation peak shifts among groups with respect to reference Tailarach coordinates of Inferior Frontal Gyrus, Superior Temporal Sulcus and Temporo-Parietal Junction. Mixed-model ANOVAs were used to test for differences in activation peak shifts. Significant activation peak shifts were found in GL patients with respect both to HC and other groups (TLA and CA). In addition, in the same group of patients a significant effect of tumor location (anterior or posterior) was detected. We demonstrated that intra-hemispheric language plasticity is influenced by the type of lesion affecting the left hemisphere and that fMRI is especially valuable in the preoperative assessment of such reorganization in glioma patients.

Influence of the Extraction Location on the Physical and Mechanical Properties of the Pseudo-Trunk Banana Fibers

ABSTRACT The specific properties and availability of banana pseudo-trunk fibers make them a promising alternative for the development of green composites. However, the wide dispersion of their properties can hinder their use. In this study, the influence of the sampling area of the banana pseudo-trunk on the physical and mechanical properties of the fibers was evaluated. Prior to retting, the trunk was sampled longitudinally (bottom, middle and top) and transversely (periphery, intermediate and heart). Gravimetric tests were carried out and revealed variations in water absorption (347.1–517.4%), density (0.92–1.45 g.cm−3) and linear mass (25 -34tex). Tensile tests were also performed and showed a significant effect of fiber location on Young’s modulus (6.60–34.6GPa), tensile strength (91-350MPa) and elongation at the break (0.9–2.6%). Due to diameter scatter, variations of 42% were found for fibers in the same area. In a region, the physical properties increase from the periphery to the core, and the mechanical properties decrease in the same direction, except for elongation. The results of this study showed good agreement with those of other natural fiber types. However, we recommend the peripheral areas of the pseudo-trunk to extract reinforcing fibers from composites because of their low density (0.9 g.cm−3) and their high stiffness (34GPa).

Regional and time course differences in sweat cortisol, glucose, and select cytokine concentrations during exercise

IntroductionThe use of sweat as a biofluid for non-invasive sampling and diagnostics is a popular area of research. However, concentrations of cortisol, glucose, and cytokines have not been described across anatomical regions or as time progresses throughout exercise.PurposeTo determine regional and time course differences in sweat cortisol, glucose, and select cytokines (EGF, IFN-γ, IL-1β, IL-1α, IL-1ra, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-8, and IL-10).MethodsSweat was collected with absorbent patches from eight subjects (24–44 y; 80.2 ± 10.2 kg) on the forehead (FH), right dorsal forearm (RDF), right scapula (RS), and right triceps (RT) at 0–25 min, 30–55 min, and 60–85 min during 90 min of cycling (~ 82% HRmax) in a heated chamber (32 °C, 50% rh). ANOVA was used to determine the effect of site and time on outcomes. Data are reported as LS means ± SE.ResultsThere was a significant effect of location on sweat analyte concentrations with FH having higher values than most other regions for cortisol (FH: 1.15 ± 0.08 ng/mL > RDF: 0.62 ± 0.09 ng/mL and RT: 0.65 ± 0.12 ng/mL, P = 0.02), IL-1ra (P < 0.0001), and IL-8 (P < 0.0001), but lower concentrations for glucose (P = 0.01), IL-1α (P < 0.0001), and IL-10 (P = 0.02). Sweat IL-1β concentration was higher on the RS than RT (P < 0.0001). Sweat cortisol concentration increased (25 min: 0.34 ± 0.10 ng/mL < 55 min: 0.89 ± 0.07 ng/mL < 85 min: 1.27 ± 0.07 ng/mL; P < 0.0001), while EGF (P < 0.0001), IL-1ra (P < 0.0001), and IL-6 (P = 0.02) concentrations decreased over time.ConclusionSweat analyte concentrations varied with time of sampling and anatomical region, which is essential information to consider when conducting future work in this area.Clinical trial identifierNCT04240951 registered January 27, 2020.