Two-factor Analysis Of Variance Research Articles

Impact of body mass index on sonographic measurement of head perineum distance before operative vaginal delivery.

To evaluate the impact of body mass index (BMI) on sonographic measurement of head perineum distance (HPD) before operative vaginal delivery (OVD). This was a single-center retrospective cohort study (Lille, France) conducted from March 1, 2019 to October 31, 2020 including all singleton and OVD. HPD measurement was systematically performed without and with compression on the perineum soft tissues. The level of station was defined by vaginal examination and three maternal BMI groups were defined (normal BMI [<24.9 kg/m2] vs overweight [25-29.9 kg/m2] vs obese [≥30 kg/m2]). HPD measures were compared between BMI groups and compression, in distinct level of station, using a two-factor analysis of variance including BMI groups, the compression, and the interaction term BMI group compression. A total of 775 women were included: 488 with normal BMI, 181 overweight patients and 106 obese patients. The measurement of HPD before OVD without and with compression on the soft tissues was significantly different between the BMI groups only in the lower part, particularly between normal BMI and obese patients (mean difference (95% CI): 6.6 mm (4.0 to 9.2) without compression; 3.8 (1.1 to 6.4) with compression). The values of HPD without and with compression on the soft tissues on the maternal perineum were different according to the maternal BMI concerning lower part station. Thus, it seems important to define thresholds of HPD measures corresponding to each head station levels according to maternal BMI.

Comparison of surgical outcomes between Kahook Dual Blade goniotomy and Trabectome surgery in patients with open-angle glaucoma

Objective: To compare the medium-term therapeutic effects of Kahook Dual Blade (KDB) goniotomy and Trabectome surgery in the treatment of patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). Methods: This study was a non-randomized prospective interventional controlled clinical study. POAG patients who underwent KDB goniotomy or Trabectome surgery at Beijing Tongren Hospital from May 2017 to April 2022 were enrolled. The definition of successful surgery was postoperative average intraocular pressure (IOP)≤21 mmHg (1 mmHg=0.133 kPa) and IOP decrease≥20%. Follow-up visits were conducted on the 1st day, 1st week, 1st, 3rd and 6th month after surgery. The IOP value, the number of IOP-lowering medications, the proportion of surgical success (average IOP≤21 mmHg at 6 months), and complications were evaluated. Statistical methods included independent sample t-test, Mann-Whitney rank sum test, χ2 test, repeated measures two-factor analysis of variance, Bonferroni, Friedman M test, Wilcoxon, and Log-rank. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to calculate the cumulative success rate of each group. Results: Seventeen male patients (17 eyes) and 10 female patients (10 eyes) were included. The mean age was (39.9±17.7) years old. There were 11 patients in the KDB group and 16 patients in the Trabectome group. There was no significant difference in clinical baseline conditions between the two groups (P>0.05). The IOPs in the KDB and Trabectome groups at postoperative 1 week [(16.6±6.3) and (16.4±4.1) mmHg) and 6 months [(17.8±5.3) and (19.9±4.4) mmHg) were lower than those before surgery [(25.1±9.3) and (27.4±9.1) mmHg) (all P<0.05). There was no significant difference in the overall IOP between groups (P>0.05). The IOP reduction rates in the KDB and Trabectome groups were 23.4% and 19.0%, with no significant difference (P=0.674). The numbers of IOP-lowering medications used in the KDB and Trabectome groups at 3 months [2.0 (1.0, 4.0) and 2.0 (1.0, 2.3)] and 6 months [2.0 (0.0, 4.0) and 2.0 (1.0, 3.0)] after surgery were not significantly different from those before surgery [4.0 (2.0, 4.0) and 3.0 (2.0, 4.0)] (both P>0.05). There was no statistical significance in the overall number of IOP-lowering medications used between the two groups (P>0.05). There was also no statistically significant difference in the proportion of patients with an IOP decrease of≥20% and the proportion of patients whose mean postoperative IOP was≤21 mmHg (all P>0.05). The proportions of IOP≤21 mmHg in the KDB group and the Trabectome group at 6 months after surgery were 81.8% and 68.8% (P>0.05). Serious intraoperative or postoperative complications occurred in neither group. Conclusions: Both KDB trabeculotomy and Trabectome surgery can effectively reduce IOP and have a good safety profile in treating POAG, with the same number of IOP-lowering medications.

Evaluation of the accuracy of seven intraoral scanners for the full dentate and partially edentulous complete-arch mandibular casts: An in vitro comparison

Statement of problemIntraoral scanners (IOSs) are widely used in dentistry, providing high accuracy in short-range scanning. Nevertheless, when scanning the full dental arch, it remains a challenge. Furthermore, there is a lack of studies reporting the differences in scan accuracy between dental arches with large-span mucosal areas and fully dentate casts or optimal IOS selection for different dental statuses. PurposeThis study aimed to evaluate the accuracy and scanning time of different IOSs for full dentate (FD) and partially edentulous (PE) casts with missing teeth in the #34–#44 range and to determine the IOSs with the optimal clinical adaptability and scanning accuracy for different complete-arch casts. Material and methodsReference scans of two complete-arch (FD and PE) casts were obtained using a laboratory scanner (Ceramill Map 600). Subsequently, the same casts were scanned ten times each by seven IOSs (3Shape Trios 3, CS3600, Planmeca Emerald, iTero Element 5D, Medit i500, BAMBOO B1, and Shining Aoralscan 3), and the scanning time was recorded. The test data were superimposed on the reference scans for the selected areas, and three-dimensional deviations between the reference and test casts (trueness), and between test casts (precision) were determined using reverse engineering software (Geomagic Wrap). The dataset was analyzed using a two-factor analysis of variance with post-hoc Bonferroni tests. ResultsTwo-factor analysis of variance revealed significant differences in accuracy and scanning time for different casts (P<0.001) and IOSs (P<0.001). For the FD cast, the i500 (0.35±0.11 mm trueness) and CS3600 (0.23±0.12 mm precision) performed worse than the remaining scanners. For the PE cast, the BAMBOO B1(0.89±0.58 mm trueness; 0.88± 0.48mm precision) performed worse than the remaining scanners. There were no differences in the accuracy of scanning between the Element 5D and Emerald for both cast types. However, the scanning time differed significantly between the different IOSs (P<0.001). Regardless of the cast type, the fastest and slowest scans were performed by the Trios3 and CS3600 scanners respectively. ConclusionsThe accuracy and scanning time differed between the different IOSs and types of complete-arch casts.

Anodal transcranial direct current stimulation enhances response inhibition and attention allocation in fencers.

The aim of this study is to investigate the acute effects of anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on reaction time, response inhibition and attention in fencers. Sixteen professional female fencers were recruited, and subjected to anodal tDCS and sham stimulation in the primary motor area (M1) one week apart in a randomized, crossover, single-blind design. A two-factor analysis of variance with repeated measures was used to analyze the effects of stimulation conditions (anodal stimulation, sham stimulation) and time (pre-stimulation, post-stimulation) on reaction time, response inhibition, and attention in fencers. The study found a significant improvement in response inhibition and attention allocation from pre-stimulation to post-stimulation following anodal tDCS but not after sham stimulation. There was no statistically significant improvement in reaction time and selective attention. A single session of anodal tDCS could improve response inhibition, attention allocation in female fencers. This shows that tDCS has potential to improve aspects of an athlete's cognitive performance, although we do not know if such improvements would transfer to improved performance in competition. However, more studies involving all genders, large samples, and different sports groups are needed in the future to further validate the effect of tDCS in improving the cognitive performance of athletes.

Effects of Aikido classes on mood in Japanese university students

This study examined the effects of a half-semester of aikido instruction on mood of Japanese university students using multidimensional indicators. In all, 23 female students (18.87 ± 0.76 years old) who attended weekly aikido classes (15 × 90 min for half of a semester) attending a private university in the Tokyo metropolitan area were included in the analysis. The Two-Dimensional Mood Scale (TDMS) was used to measure mood. The classes measured were the third (Period 1) and the fourteenth (Period 2). The TDMS was measured before (Time 1) and after (Time 2) each class. Each measurement took &lt;5 min to complete. A two-factor analysis of variance (period (2) × time (2)) was performed for the vitality level, stability level, pleasure level, and arousal level. The results showed that regardless of the length of the class, changes were seen in the scores of vitality level, pleasure level, and arousal level between before and after the class. Thus, aikido was shown to increase vitality and positively affected pleasant and aroused mood states after class. For stability level, only the period 2 group showed a change in post-class scores. In other words, the second half of the class showed an increase in calm and relaxed mood after class.

Effect of light stress on maximum photochemical efficiency of photosystem II and chloroplast structure in cryptogams Cladonia mitis and Pleurozium schreberi

Lichens and bryophytes are cosmopolitan organisms found in diverse environments with varying sunlight availability. However, excessive light can be a stress factor for both lichens and bryophytes, as it can damage their photosynthetic apparatus, particularly the chlorophyll a and b pigments located in the chloroplasts. The measurement of photosynthetic activity and the use of fluorescence microscopy allows the assessment of the influence of light as a stress factor on the preservation state of the thallus. The main goal of our research was to determine the changes that occur in the photosynthetic activity and structure of chloroplasts of selected species lichen Cladonia mitis (Sandst.) and moss Pleurozium schreberi (Willd. Ex Brid.) under the influence of different light intensity in laboratory conditions: FL - 100% light, RL - 30% maximum light, and NL - natural sunlight. The results of the two-factor analysis of variance (ANOVA) tests showed a variation in the activities of the selected species over time depending on the amount of light energy supplied. It was also demonstrated that soaking lichens increased their photosynthetic activity, whereas in bryophytes, it had the opposite effect, decreasing it. The microscopic results showed that Cladonia mitis showed the lowest level of chloroplast fluorescence in the strongest and reduced light, which coincides with its low level of photosynthetic activity. The mosses exhibited strong fluorescence activity of the chloroplasts, suggesting its significantly higher resistance to light radiation.

Sex differences in functional connectivity and the predictive role of the connectome-based predictive model in Alzheimer's disease.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by cognitive decline. Sex differences in the progression of AD exist, but the neural mechanisms are not well understood. The purpose of the current study was to explore sex differences in brain functional connectivity (FC) at different stages of AD and their predictive ability on Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) scores using connectome-based predictive modeling (CPM). Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging was collected from 81 AD patients (44 females), 78 amnestic mild cognitive impairment patients (44 females), and 92 healthy controls (50 females). The FC analysis was conducted and the interaction effect between sex and group was investigated using two-factor variance analysis. The CPM was used to predict MoCA scores. There were sex-by-group interaction effects on FC between the left dorsolateral superior frontal gyrus and left middle temporal gyrus, left precuneus and right calcarine fissure surrounding cortex, left precuneus and left middle occipital gyrus, left middle temporal gyrus and left precentral gyrus, and between the left middle temporal gyrus and right cuneus. In the CPM, the positive network predictive model significantly predicted MoCA scores in both males and females. There were significant sex-by-group interaction effects on FC between the left precuneus and left middle occipital gyrus, and between the left middle temporal gyrus and right cuneus could predict MoCA scores in female patients. Our results suggest that there are sex differences in FC at different stages of AD. The sex-specific FC can further predict MoCA scores at individual level.

The effect of modifier and a water-soluble fertilizer on two forages grown in saline-alkaline soil.

Saline-alkali soil significantly impairs crop growth. This research employs the impacts of the modifier and water-soluble fertilizer, as well as their interaction, on the root systems of alfalfa and leymus chinensis in saline-alkali soil. The results exhibit that the hydrochar source modifier effectively enhances the root growth of both forage species. There are certain improvements in the root growth indicators of both crops at a dosage of 20 g/kg. Root enzyme activity and rhizosphere soil enzyme activity are enhanced in alfalfa, showing significant improvements in the first planting compared to the second planting. The application of water-soluble fertilizers also promotes root growth and root dehydrogenase activity. The root dehydrogenase activity of alfalfa and leymus chinensis are enhanced 62.18% and 10.15% in first planting than that of blank, respectively. Additionally, the two-factor variance analysis revealed a correlation between rhizosphere soil enzyme activity and changes in root traits. Higher rhizosphere soil enzyme activity is observed in conjunction with better root growth. The combined application of a modifier and water-soluble fertilizer has demonstrated a significant interaction effect on various aspects of the first planting of alfalfa and leymus chinensis. Moreover, the combined application of the modifier and water-soluble fertilizer has yielded superior results when compared to the individual application of either the modifier or the water-soluble fertilizer alone. This combined approach has proven effective in improving saline-alkali soil conditions and promoting crop growth in such challenging environments.

Parameters of plasticity and stability of laying hens under the interaction “genotype × environment”

The article presents the research results on the evaluation of the polygenically determined quantitative trait “laying” under the influence of the interaction “genotype × environment” on the comprehensive genetic material of chickens. Meat and egg hens of the original maternal form of domestic breeding, descendants of the first and second generations of different genesis, and improved synthetic populations performed it. The laying hens of the experimental groups were determined during seven months of egg laying. By using a two-factor variance analysis, a probable influence of genotypic affiliation (P &lt; 0.05) and the month of egg laying (P &lt; 0.001) on the level of manifestation of laying hens of the studied groups was established. The probable difference in the gradation of “condition” factors made it possible to evaluate the parameters of plasticity and stability in the studied groups of birds. The regression coefficient (bi) characterizes the average reaction of a group of individuals to a change in environmental conditions, that is, their plasticity, which makes it possible to predict the variability of the trait under the studied conditions. High bi-indicators indicate a more significant response of a group of chickens to a change in environmental conditions, influenced by active factors. That is, the larger the value of bi, the steeper the regression line, and the more sensitive the group is to changes in detention conditions. A zero or close to zero value of bi indicates that the group reacts poorly to changes in environmental conditions (in our case, the months of egg-laying). Plasticity analysis makes it possible to identify genotypes of birds with significant adaptability to changes in environmental conditions. The laying hens of the created synthetic population, the offspring of the first generation of different genetic origins, and the F2 hens of the “K-51” group were more plastic in laying. This indicates the slightest response of this bird to changes in environmental conditions. The “Ross” birds of the “K-22” and “K-32” groups of different generations and the original maternal form F10 were less plastic according to this feature; that is, they were more sensitive to the influence of active factors. The variant of stability (S2i) of the feature shows how reliably the selection feature of the studied group of birds corresponds to the plasticity estimated by the regression coefficient. The closer the S2i indicators are to zero, the less the empirical values of the characteristic differ from the theoretical values located on the regression line. The “Ross” hens of the second generation of the “K-22” and “K-32” groups were distinguished by their high laying stability (S2i=2.42–2.65). The least stable in terms of this polygenic trait was the “Kobb” chickens of the “K-51” and “K-5” groups (S2i=6.01–9.53). Hybrids of the first generation were characterized by more excellent laying stability than mothers.

Таксационная характеристика особенностей лесного фонда Барнаульского лесничества Алтайского края

The study was conducted in order to identify forestry and taxation features of forest plantations in the Barnaul forestry of the Altai Territory, located in the suburban area of Barnaul. Areas of the forest fund were selected at different distances from the city of Barnaul: in the zone of a dense network of roads and settlements (0‑15 km) and in the zone of less intensive infrastructure (37 km). Using the methods of ecological profiles, variation statistics, comparative analysis, and forest taxation, the taxation materials of 32 forest quarters were processed, including data from 718 forest taxation allotments. Using two-factor analysis of variance, it was found that the individual studied indicators of forest plantations (average height, completeness, bonus class and reserve per 1 ha) depend on the type of forest. The taxation indicators of stands in the suburban area (except for the average stock per 1 ha) do not have a reliable dependence on the features of Barnaul. The analysiso f variance in relation to the natural renewal of the main breed showed that the average height and density depend on the type of forest, and the distance from the city limits affects only the average density. High vaul es of occurrence (65.4‑89.5%) of undergrowth were noted in fresh forest, lower in grass forest (15.5‑48.4%), but the occurrence increases with distance from the city in both types of forest. Ash-leaved maple finds its ecological niche mainly in the grass forest, displacing local plant species, preventing the natural renewal of pine. It has been previously established that the parameters of forest plantations in suburban pine forests of Barnaul depend on the type of forest, showing different structural and positional stability in relation to anthropogenic factors.

Effects of solar activity and geographic latitude on genetic homeostasis of human somatic cells

BACKGROUND: Associations between genetic stability of human somatic cells and solar activity across latitudes have been studied. A human buccal epithelium micronucleus test was selected as a method for evaluating genetic homeostasis.&#x0D; AIM: To assess effects of solar activity on the genetic stability of human somatic cells using the micronucleus test in buccal epithelium in relation to the geographical location of subjects.&#x0D; METHODS: Men aged 18 to 21 years with no harmful habits and taking no medication comprised the sample. Studies were conducted simultaneously in four cities of the Russian Federation: Sevastopol, Voronezh, Tomsk, and Khanty-Mansiysk. The effect of three types of solar flares, whose classification is based on changes in the amplitude of the thermal X-ray burst, was studied. Material for the cytogenetic study was collected on days 3, 7, and 10 after the solar flare. The human buccal epithelium micronucleus test was selected as a method to evaluate genetic homeostasis. At least 1,000 cells were examined on each preparation, among which the number of cells with micronuclei, perinuclear vacuoles, notches, “broken egg” and “tongue” type protrusions, karyorexis, karyolisis, and karyopyknosis was determined. In total, 495 thousand buccal epithelial cells were analyzed. Statistical processing of the data was performed using “Stadia” and “Statistica” software packages. Effecs of solar andlatitude on genetic homeostasis of somatic cells was performed using multivariate analysis of variance and two-factor analysis of variance with fixed effects.&#x0D; RESULTS: Solar activity affected the stability of the human genetic apparatus by increasing the influence of the city pollution and its geographical location on the number of cells with nucleus abnormalities. We also observed a combined effect of solar flare and season on the number of cells with nucleus aberrations. More nuclear anomalies were registered in the winter. We did not detect any difference in the number of cells with nucleus anomalies on the 3rd, the 7th, the 10th, and the 17th days after the flare suggesting no associations between solar activity and the number of cells with nuclear abnormalities.&#x0D; CONCLUSION: The highest number of cells with nucleus abnormalities is observed in Sevastopol reflecting with the greatest level of anthropogenic pollution of this city compared to the other locations. Solar activity increases the influence of the city pollution and its geographical location on the number of cells with nucleus abnormalities. The results obtained can be used in conducting a micronucleus test of human buccal epithelium and in planning measures to assess the genotoxicity of the environment.

Analysis of adaptability of oat varieties and lines by productivity elements in the conditions of Kirov region

The research was carried out in 2020-2022 in the central part of the Kirov region, under varying weather conditions. In the nursery of the competitive variety testing, 3 varieties and 8 lines of hulled oats were studied in order to analyze their adaptive ability according to the elements of the productivity structure. Varieties and lines were characterized based on the sum of the ranks of the evaluation results according to the methods of S. A. Eberhart, W. A. Rassel (1966), N. A. Plokhinsky (1961), L. A. Zhivotkov et al. (1994), A. A. Rosielle and J. Hamblin (1981). There was a direct statistically significant effect of the mass of 1000 grains, the mass of grain from the panicle, the number of grains in the panicle on the yield (r = 0.62…0.85). The formation of the elements of the productivity structure depended on the hydrothermal conditions of individual periods of vegetation (r = 0.63…0.72). The method of two-factor analysis of variance revealed that the influence of the "year" factor on the elements of the productivity structure was more significant (33.7...64.3 %) than the "grade" factor (8.5...24.6 %). There have been identified lines and varieties able to form consistently high yields in contrasting weather conditions due to certain structural elements or their combined influence. A high adaptive capacity with a minimum amount of ranks was obtained by the number of spikelets in the 41h18 line (Σranks = 17), varieties Kirovsky 2 (Σranks = 14); by the number of grains in the panicle and by the weight of grains from the panicle – line 41h18 (Σranks = 14 and 15); by the weight of 1000 grains – lines 25h18, 91h18, 41h18, 50h18, 162h15 (Σranks = 21…27), varieties Medved’ and Kirovsky 2 (Σranks = 18…22). According to the total lowest sum of ranks (71...97), the Kirovsky grade 2, promising lines 25h18 and 41h18 have been identified.

Determination of Sample Size Using Resource Equation Methods in Analysis of Variance Models in Animal Studies

The Resource Equation Method is a method developed as an alternative to power analysis for the calculation of sample size in animal studies. With this approach, the sample size is calculated based on the error degrees of freedom (DF) in the variance analysis model. In this study, one and two-factor variance analysis models, which are commonly used in animal studies, are discussed. The minimum and maximum sample size required for these models were calculating and presented in tables. While a minimum of 12 and a maximum of 21 animals in total are sufficient for two independent groups (Design 1), and the total number of animals goes up as the number of groups increases. In one factor, repeated-measures experiment design (Design 2), it was observed that the number of animals to be included in the study decreases significantly as the number of repetitions increases. For all factorial designs (Designs 3 and 4), 2 or 3 animals per subgroup were found to be sufficient. Repeat measure experimental designs can be chosen to increase the power of the study without increasing the number of animal/subjects. Statistical power was calculated for different numbers of groups in Design 1, based on their respective minimum and maximum samples sizes and Cohen's effect sizes, and for most cases, power was found to be much lower than 0.80. Statistical power exceeded 0.80 only in the case of very large effect sizes. Therefore, the researcher can test her hypotheses with larger effect sizes to reach 80% power with sample sizes in independent group comparisons. A determined effect size value for animal studies is not available in the literature. According to the results obtained in our study, the effect sizes for the 2 groups are 1.2, 1.5 and 2.0 for 3 or more groups 0.5; 0.7 and 0.9 can be recommended to take as small, medium and large effect sizes, respectively.

Effects of Taekwondo Poomsae Training on Lower Limb Reaction Ability and Balance Performance in Adolescents

&lt;p&gt;背景：學習跆拳道運動有助於兒童與青少年成長與體適能表現，但學習跆拳道品勢的研究較少，因此本研究希望了解學習跆拳道品勢訓練後的身體適能表現。目的：探討從事8週跆拳道品勢訓練後，對國中少年下肢爆發力、反應能力與平衡能力的影響。方法：招募未有運動習慣及跆拳道訓練經驗之男性國中生16名，隨機分配實驗組 (n = 8)(參與學校體育課程+跆拳道品勢訓練)，控制組 (n = 8)(學校體育課程)，進行8週的訓練課程。訓練前後進行身高體重及腿長測量、動態平衡能力、反應能力及下肢爆發力的測驗，並以混合設計二因子變異數分析，比較兩組別反應能力與平衡能力之差異，當交互作用達顯著時，以LSD法進行事後比較。以獨立樣本t檢定考驗實驗組與訓練組進步百分比是否有達顯著性，並以皮爾森績差相關分析與受試者下肢平衡能力與反應能力的相關性。結果：實驗組與控制組在爆發力與平衡表現上組別因子上達到顯著差異 (p &lt; .05) 且實驗組與控制組進步百分比也達顯著差異 (p &lt; .05)。反應能力組別因子與時間因子未達顯著差異 (p &gt; .05)，進步百分比也未達顯著差異 (p &gt;.05)。訓練前反應能力與平衡表現為低度相關 (r = .352 , p = .10)，訓練後反應能力與平衡表現之間達中度相關 (r = .665，p &lt; .05)。結論：跆拳道品勢訓練可以顯著提升國中少年的下肢爆發力與下肢平衡能力。爆發力、反應能力、平衡表現進步幅度都大於控制組。訓練後反應能力與平衡表現之間存在相關性，可能是跆拳道品勢訓練提升了學童身體協調與感覺統合。未來可針對不同跆拳道訓練方式與不同年齡層了解訓練與身體發展的差異。&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Background: Learning Taekwondo can contribute to the growth and physical fitness performance of children and adolescents. However, there is limited research on learning Taekwondo Poomsae. Therefore, this study aims to understand the impact of learning Taekwondo Poomsae on physical fitness performance. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of 8 weeks of Taekwondo Poomsae training on lower limb explosive strength, reaction ability, and balance in junior high school adolescents. Methods: Sixteen male junior high school students with no prior sports experience or Taekwondo training were recruited. The participants were randomly assigned to either the experimental group (n = 8) (participating in school physical education classes plus Taekwondo Poomsae training) or the control group (n = 8) (participating only in school physical education classes). Both groups underwent an 8-week training program. Before and after the training, all participants underwent measurements of height, weight, leg length, dynamic balance ability, reaction ability, and lower limb explosive strength. The participants’ data were analyzed using a mixed-design two-factor analysis of variance to compare the differences in reaction ability and balance ability between the two groups. When the interaction effect was significant, post hoc comparisons were performed using the LSD method. Independent sample t-test was used to test the significance of improvement percentage between the experimental and control groups. Pearson correlation analysis was used to examine the relationship between lower limb balance ability and reaction ability. Results: The experimental group showed significant differences in explosive strength and balance performance compared to the control group (p &lt; .05). Moreover, the improvement percentages in both explosive strength and balance performance were significantly different between the two groups (p &lt; .05). However, there were no significant differences in reaction ability between groups or in the improvement percentage (p &gt; .05). Before the training, there was a low correlation between reaction ability and balance performance (r = .352, p =.10). After the training, there was a moderate correlation between reaction ability and balance performance (r = .665, p &lt; .05). Conclusion: Taekwondo Poomsae training can significantly improve lower limb explosive strength and balance in junior high school adolescents. The improvement in explosive strength, reaction ability, and balance performance was greater in the experimental group than the control group. The correlation between reaction ability and balance performance after training suggests that Taekwondo Poomsae training may enhance the students’ body coordination and sensory integration. Future studies could explore the differences in training and physical development across different Taekwondo training methods and age groups.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;

Hand Selection in Dribbling Phases: An Analysis of Non-Dominant Hand Usage and Dribble Change in Basketball.

This study investigates the influence of different dribbling phases on hand selection among basketball players across various categories. A total of 33 guard players, including 11 from high school, college, and NBA teams each, were observed. Video data analysis was utilized to determine the frequency of players using their dominant hands (DHs) and non-dominant hands (NDHs) during in-game dribbling phases. The dribbling phases were classified into three categories: First (the initiation of the dribble), Middle (during the dribble but not in First and Last), and Last (the completion of the dribble). Percentage, means, and standard deviations were computed for each category within the First, Middle, and Last measurements. A two-factor analysis of variance (ANOVA) was conducted, considering player category and dribbling phase as factors. The ANOVA revealed significant main effects of player category (p < 0.01) and dribbling phase (p < 0.01). Post hoc multiple comparisons using Holm's method indicated that, in the First phase, players exhibited a 6.5% higher preference for using their NDHs (43.4 ± 11.9%) compared to the Middle phase (36.9 ± 13.9%) (p < 0.05). Similarly, in the Last phase, players displayed a 5.3% greater inclination towards using their NDHs (42.2 ± 11.7%) compared to the Middle phase (p < 0.05). These findings provide quantitative evidence that the specific dribbling phase influences hand selection during gameplay. The implications of these results are significant for basketball coaches, as they can design targeted training programs and drills that simulate game scenarios and encourage NDH usage. By understanding the factors influencing hand choice, players can enhance their versatility and adaptability on the court. Furthermore, these findings contribute to player performance, skill development, and strategic decision making in dribbling phases.

Оценка гибридных сеянцев яблони по основным хозяйственно-биологическим признакам в Оренбургской области

Abstract. The aim is to evaluate hybrid apple seedlings according to the main economic and biological characteristics in the conditions of the Orenburg region. Methods. The studies were carried out from 2002 to 2022 in the Orenburg branch of the Federal State Budget Scientific Institution of the Federal Scientific Center for Horticulture. The objects of research were 10 hybrid families of apple trees selected by the Federal State Budget Scientific Institution of the Federal Scientific Center for Horticulture. The main observations and records on the main economic and biological characteristics were carried out according to the methodology “Program and methodology for the selection of fruit, berry and nut crops”, “Program and methodology for the study of variety of fruit, berry and nut crops”, statistical processing of experimental data was carried out by the method of two-factor analysis of variance, where A is the variety, B is the year. The scientific novelty lies in the fact that as a result of the conducted research, promising hybrid forms with a complex of economically valuable traits, with a high potential for productivity and large-fruiting in the conditions of the Orenburg region have been identified. Results. The genetic collection of the Orenburg branch of the Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution of the Federal Scientific Center for Horticulture serves as a fundamental basis for breeding work, which makes it possible to intensify the creation of adaptive, highly productive apple varieties. It has been established that the majority of hybrid apple seedlings have high winter hardiness. Weak freezing (0.2–0.5 points) characterizes hybrids of crossbreeding combinations, such as BratChud × Simvol, Kovrovoe × Anis Sverdlovskiy. Phytosanitary monitoring carried out on the site of hybrid apple seedlings showed that over the years of the study, weather conditions did not allow the development of diseases in the apple tree. On average, fruits in the offspring were 1-1, 1-5, 1-6, 1-7, 1-8, 1-9, 1-10 (140.0 ... 150.0 g). The greatest productivity was formed by hybrids of combinations of crossing BratChud × Simvol (24.6 kg/tree), Orskoe × Prizemlennoe (24.0 kg/tree) and Arkaim × Podarok Orenburzh’yu (24.2 kg/tree).

A consumer cross-over trial suggests that there are significant seasonal changes of the tensile properties (wet) of human hair.

Through the cooperation with an industrial partner, we gained a set of data for the tensile properties (wet) of human hair. The hair samples originated from a cross-over study with two groups of individuals, using for a topical application sequentially two products (A and B). Each phase of the study lasted 6 months. The phases of the study by chance covered first largely the winter and then the summer period. Initially, tensile variables were chosen, which not only reflect the mechanical properties of hair (modulus, break strain, and break stress) but which are also considered to have a good connection to practice-relevant hair properties. The initial analysis of the data showed that changes were observed for the variables due to the treatment phases. However, these were either small or difficult to interpret. Against this background and using two-factor analysis of variance, we investigated the hypothesis that the tensile properties of hair (wet) may show significant seasonal changes. For this, we chose those two independent variables, which reflect the properties of the intermediate filaments (modulus) and the matrix (break strain) in the composite structure of the hair cortex. The results support the 'seasonal' hypothesis and clearly show that the variables show significant changes from Winter to Summer (modulus: 10% increase; break strain: 3% decrease). The seasonal effect was thus a major reason, why the first stage of the analysis of the data was inconclusive. The tensile properties of the main morphological components of the cortex show distinct seasonal changes. Towards the summer, the hair becomes stiffer and more brittle. Furthermore, the results suggest that seasonal effects may need to be taken into account when conducting studies on lengths of hair grown during different seasons.

STRUCTURAL-AGGREGATE COMPOSITION AND SOIL WATER RESISTANCE BASED ON TILLAGE REGIMES IN SOUTHEAST KAZAKHSTAN

The promotion and rational development of drylands employed two tillage regimes (plowing to 20–22 cm and no-till) during the spring wheat and barley cultivation in Southeast Kazakhstan. The results established that the no-till scheme contributed to forming an excellent aggregate state of the arable soil layer for spring wheat and barley (65%–69%). The water-resistant aggregates were the highest with no-tillage (19.3%–21.8%), indicating the unsatisfactory water resistance of the soil structure. Enhancing the water-resistant aggregates requires using organic fertilizers to improve the establishment of perennial grasses, green manuring, and cover crops. No-till system inclined to boost the optimal soil density from a loose and slightly compact state of 1.19–1.23 g/cm3 to a dense 1.32–1.39 g/cm3. According to crop cultivar and tillage methods, the spring wheat and barley grain yield varied between 2.84 and 3.89 t/ha. High grain yield came from the spring barley cultivar Symbat. Spring showed promising performance when the plowing level was 20–22 cm and inferior only by 0.25 and 0.15 t/ha with no-till. Based on the two-factor analysis of variance, the cultivar contribution to the spring wheat and barley grain yield buildup depended on the shares of crop season of the research (year – environment) (40.9%–62.2%) and the tillage regimes (22.4%–32.2%). The grain yield formation was more dependent on the studied crops and their cultivars, and the dependence increased over the crop seasons due to weather conditions during the crop period.

Selection of strawberry cultivars according to their productivity and berry quality using normalized indices

Background. Combined use of various data transformation methods and a multivariate statistical analysis that takes into account several variables would increase the efficiency of selecting promising strawberry genotypes according to a set of traits for industrial and small-scale production.Materials and methods. In 2020–2022, 17 short-day garden strawberry cultivars were studied. The analysis was carried out for productivity (the number of berries, the weight of berries of the 1st order, and the average berry weight), marketable quality of berries (berry pulp density, berry height, and berry diameter), and total weight of berries per plant. Mathematical data processing employed a two-factor analysis of variance, the principal component method, cluster analysis by Ward’s algorithm, and Wilcoxon test.Results. The statistical significance of the cultivar and year factors, and their interaction was measured. The cultivar’s genotype had the greatest effect on the variability of characters. Greater part of the total variance in the set of characters was determined by the first five principal components. The cluster analysis identified two groups of cultivars. The initial data were transformed according to the least significant difference (LSD05) to obtain normalized indices. Taking into account the Wilcoxon test, the cultivars were ranked by the indices. When comparing the groups built in line with mean and total values of the normalized indices with the cluster analysis results, 6 best strawberry cultivars were identified for the studied set of characters.Conclusion. The combined use of multivariate methods and normalized indices made it possible to identify the most promising strawberry cultivars according to their yield and berry quality: ‘Olympia’, ‘Nelli’, ‘Florence’, ‘Kemia’, ‘Jive’, and ‘Alba’.

Impact of adapted taekwondo vs. multicomponent training on health status in independent older women: a randomized controlled trial.

This study, called the TKD and Aging Project, aimed to analyze and compare the effects of an adapted taekwondo program concerning multicomponent training on blood pressure, morphological variables, food consumption frequency, health-related quality of life (HRQoL), physical fitness, handgrip strength, and postural balance in independent older women. A randomized controlled trial study was conducted with parallel groups for 8 weeks (24 sessions of 60 min each), employing a double-blind design and incorporating repeated measures. Twenty-eight older women initially participated in the intervention. Three participants were excluded because they did not participate in the re-assessments. Thus, 14 older women from the adapted taekwondo group (TKD; age: 62.86 ± 2.38 years) and 11 from the multicomponent training group (MCT; age: 63.18 ± 1.94 years) participated in the final analysis. A two-factor mixed analysis of variance (ANOVA) model with repeated measures was performed to measure the time × group effect. The TKD showed significant improvements in the mental health (p = 0.024; ES = 0.91) and general health (p < 0.001; ES = 0.75) dimensions of the HRQoL, as well as in the chair stand (p = 0.001; ES = 1.18), arm curl (p < 0.001; ES = 2.10), 2-min step (p < 0.001; ES = 1.73), and chair sit-and-reach (p = 0.001; ES = 0.91) tests. Additionally, it showed a significant reduction in postural balance for the eyes-closed condition in the center of the pressure area (p = 0.021; ES = 0.89), mean velocity (p = 0.004; ES = 0.79), and mediolateral velocity (p < 0.001; ES = 1.26). However, the MCT showed significant increases in the general health (p = 0.013; ES = 0.95) dimension of the HRQoL and a significant reduction (p = 0.039; ES = 0.28) in the mediolateral velocity of postural balance for the eyes-closed condition. Multiple comparisons showed that the TKD scored significantly higher in the chair stand (p = 0.017; ES = 1.79), arm curl (p = 0.003; ES = 1.77), and 2-min step (p = 0.018; ES = 0.91) tests than the MCT. Compared to multicomponent training, taekwondo improves postural balance and provides better benefits in terms of physical fitness and HRQoL for older women. Therefore, it is possible to recommend it as a safe physical activity strategy, as long as it is well-dosed, since it showed high adherence to intervention in older women.