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The problem of finding optimal block designs can be formulated as a combinatorial optimization, but its resolution is still a formidable challenge. This paper presents a general and user-friendly algorithm, namely Modified Particle Swarm Optimization (MPSO), to construct optimal or near-optimal block designs. It can be used for several classes of block designs such as binary, non-binary and test-control block designs with correlated or uncorrelated observations. In order to evaluate the algorithm, we compare our results with the optimal designs presented in some published papers. An advantage of our algorithm is its independency to the sizes of blocks and the structure of correlations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For situations in multi-site varietal trials where the experimenters demand incomplete blocks with unequal sizes, minimum number of replications, or both, new series of incomplete block designs have been presented. The proposed designs are higher associate partially balanced incomplete block designs in two replications having flexible block sizes. These designs are affine resolvable and are optimal in the competing class of resolvable incomplete block designs. The underlying association schemes of these designs are defined. Further, they can be advantageously used for obtaining designs for various stages of breeding trials. An R-package developed for generating these designs has also been demonstrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The matched case–control design, up until recently mostly pertinent to epidemiological studies, is becoming customary in biomedical applications as well. For instance, in omics studies, it is quite common to compare cancer and healthy tissue from the same patient. Furthermore, researchers today routinely collect data from various and variable sources that they wish to relate to the case–control status. This highlights the need to develop and implement statistical methods that can take these tendencies into account. Results: We present an R package penalizedclr, that provides an implementation of the penalized conditional logistic regression model for analyzing matched case–control studies. It allows for different penalties for different blocks of covariates, and it is therefore particularly useful in the presence of multi-source omics data. Both L1 and L2 penalties are implemented. Additionally, the package implements stability selection for variable selection in the considered regression model. Conclusions: The proposed method fills a gap in the available software for fitting high-dimensional conditional logistic regression models accounting for the matched design and block structure of predictors/features. The output consists of a set of selected variables that are significantly associated with case–control status. These variables can then be investigated in terms of functional interpretation or validation in further, more targeted studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using an approach from finite group representation theory we construct quaternary non-projective codes with parameters [ 6 9 3 , 6 , 4 8 0 ] 4 , [ 1 3 8 6 , 6 , 1 0 0 8 ] 4 , [ 2 0 1 6 , 6 , 1 4 8 8 ] 4 , quaternary projective codes with parameters [ 2 3 1 , 6 , 1 6 0 ] 4 , [ 4 6 2 , 6 , 3 3 6 ] 4 and [ 6 7 2 , 6 , 4 9 6 ] 4 and binary projective codes with parameters [ 6 9 3 , 1 2 , 3 2 0 ] 2 , [ 1 3 8 6 , 1 2 , 6 7 2 ] 2 , [ 2 0 1 6 , 1 2 , 9 9 2 ] 2 as examples of two-weight codes on which a finite almost quasisimple group of sporadic type acts transitively as permutation groups of automorphisms. In particular, we show that these codes are invariant under the 3 -fold covers 3 ̂ M 2 2 and 3 ̂ M 2 2 : 2 , respectively, of the Mathieu groups M 2 2 and M 2 2 : 2. Employing a known construction of strongly regular graphs from projective two-weight codes we obtain from the binary projective (respectively, quaternary projective) two-weight codes with parameters those given above, the strongly regular graphs with parameters (4 0 9 6 , 6 9 3 , 1 5 2 , 1 1 0) , (4 0 9 6 , 1 3 8 6 , 4 8 2 , 4 6 2) , and (4 0 9 6 , 2 0 1 6 , 9 9 2 , 9 9 2) , respectively. The latter graph can be viewed as a 2 - (4 0 9 6 , 2 0 1 6 , 9 9 2) -symmetric design with the symmetric difference property whose residual and derived designs with respect to a block give rise to binary self-complementary codes meeting the Grey–Rankin bound with equality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The remarkable mechanical performance of architectural materials—composed of carefully designed building blocks—have received increasing interest from the scientific and engineering community in recent decades. Among architectural materials, lattice materials turned out to be the most promising structure to be further investigated as they offer many attractive properties for engineering applications—e.g., lightweight, auxetic effect, and high strength‐to‐weight ratio. Inspired by traditional Islamic Geometric Patterns (IGPs), this contribution investigates a new set of designs of lattice structures based on geometrical patterns easily controlled by a single designing parameter derived by the "Hasba" (measure in Arabic) method of construction of Islamic geometric patterns. Utilizing the commercial software Abaqus for finite element analysis, the mechanical behavior of an IGP‐inspired lattice structure is numerically analyzed, particularly focusing on its uniaxial in‐plane compressive properties under quasi‐static conditions and revealing, through buckle and postbuckle analyses with a hyperelastic material model, insights into the structural instability and of these innovative lattice structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Indonesian wide range of biogeophysical conditions lead to Genotype×Environment interaction (G×E). Multiple stability analysis methods can provide more comprehensive and reliable information about the G×E. The objective of this research was to determine the yield stability of seven promising maize (Zea mays L.) hybrids (SJI 1, SJI 2, SJI 3, SJI 4, SJI 5, SJI 6, SJI 7) and three control cultivars (Pioneer 36, Bisi 18 and Pertiwi 6) using Francis and Kannenberg, Finlay and Wilkinson, Eberhart and Russel, Shukla and GGE biplot analyses. The hybrids and cultivars were arranged in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replicates in 10 locations in the dry season 2022. The results indicated that hybrid SJI 001 had the highest yield (12.57 t ha-1) and was stable according to the five stability analyses. On the other hand, hybrid SJI 002 (8.36 t ha-1) performed well in unfavourable environments, while hybrid SJI 006 (12.02 t ha-1) and 'Pertiwi 6' (11.48 t ha-1) performed well in favourable ones. In addition, GGE biplot analysis revealed that SJI 006 was well adapted to Prambon and 'Pertiwi 6' to Bajeng. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Meloidogyne enterolobii is currently the most damaging nematode of the genus Meloidogyne due to its aggressiveness and ability to overcome existing sources of resistance; therefore, the search for genotypes with resistance in crops of high economic importance such as chili pepper (Capsicum annuum L. var. annuum) is one of the greatest challenges facing agricultural researchers. The aim of this study was to determine the level of resistance in C. annuum landraces from Mexico to different population densities of M. enterolobii. Five C. annuum landraces (UTC24, UTC25, UTC66, UTC67, and UTC90) and the commercial cv. Revelation were used. The experiment was conducted twice under greenhouse conditions with a randomized block design with four replicates per genotype and cultivar. Inoculation was performed on 21-d-old seedlings with inoculum doses of 0, 4500, 9000, and 13500 eggs plant-1. The gall index, reproduction factor, and reproduction index were evaluated at 42 and 63 d after inoculation. Genotypes UTC66, UTC67, and UTC90 showed a higher level of resistance with a damage percentage lower than 50% compared to 'Revelation' (susceptible). Genotype UTC90 showed the lowest reproduction factor and index, so it was considered a highly resistant genotype to an inoculum dose of 4500 M. enterolobii eggs with a damage percentage of less than 10%, while, at a dose of 13 500 eggs, its resistance level was intermediate. The results of this study contribute to the search for sources of resistance to M. enterolobii in chili pepper landraces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research article, some new construction methods of the nested partially balanced incomplete block (NPBIB) designs with two and three associate classes are introduced. The methods of construction utilize resolvable nested balanced incomplete block (NBIB) designs and some known association schemes such as triangular association, Latin-square association, group divisible association, and nested group divisible association. A list of NPBIB designs with v (number of treatments) ≤ 30 and r (replications of treatments) ≤ 18 are also catalogued. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The unique biophysical and biochemical properties of intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) and their recombinant derivatives, intrinsically disordered protein polymers (IDPPs) offer opportunities for producing multistimuli‐responsive materials; their sequence‐encoded disorder and tendency for phase separation facilitate the development of multifunctional materials. This review highlights the strategies for enhancing the structural diversity of elastin‐like polypeptides (ELPs) and resilin‐like polypeptides (RLPs), and their self‐assembled structures via genetic fusion to ordered motifs such as helical or beta sheet domains. In particular, this review describes approaches that harness the synergistic interplay between order‐promoting and thermoresponsive building blocks to design hybrid biomaterials, resulting in well‐structured, stimuli‐responsive supramolecular materials ordered on the nanoscale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The increasing impacts of heat stress on wheat production due to climate change has entailed the development of heat-resilient crop varieties. To address this, two hundred recombinant inbred lines (RILs) derived from a cross between WH711/WH1021 were evaluated in a randomized block design (RBD) with two replications at CCSHAU, Hisar, during 2018-19 under heat stress and non-stress conditions. Heat stress was induced by altering the date of sowing so that the grain filling stage coincide with heat stress. Results: Heat stress adversely affects RILs performance, as illustrated by alterations in phenotypic traits. Highest coefficients of variations were recorded for TAA, CTD 1, WUE, CTD 2, Cc and A under non-stress and heat stress conditions whereas gs, WUEi and GY under non-stress and SPAD 1, SPAD 2, GY and NDVI 2 under heat-stress conditions recorded moderate estimates of coefficient of variations. CTD 2, TAA, E, WUE and A displayed a significant occurrence of both high heritability and substantial genetic advance under non-stress. Similarly, CTD 2, NDVI 2, A, WUEi, SPAD 2, gs, E, Ci, MDA and WUE exhibited high heritability with high genetic advance under heat-stress conditions. Conclusions: Complementary and duplicate types of interactions with number of controlling genes were observed for different parameters depending on the traits and environments. RILs 41, 42, 59, 74, 75, 180 and 194 were categorized as heat tolerant RILs. Selection preferably for NDVI 1, RWC, TAA, A, E and WUEi to accumulate heat tolerance favorable alleles in the selected RILs is suggested for development of heat resilient genotypes for sustainable crop improvement. The results showed that traits such as such as NDVI, RWC, TAA, A, E, and WUEi, can be effective for developing heat-resilient wheat genotypes and ensuring sustainable crop improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Simple Summary: The first 16 weeks of life for a laying hen is the pullet phase. Experiences and management during this phase are critical for the long-term success of a hen, but few studies have evaluated pullet management in cage-free systems. This study evaluated the effects of two density or space allotments and two pullet strains in cage-free systems. Bird condition, physiology, immunology, and production parameters were evaluated. Stocking density only affected the size of one immune organ, the bursa of Fabricius. The relative bursal weight was higher in the low-density group. The feed conversion rate was improved in the low-density group for both strains. The brown strain had decreased uniformity and worse tail and total feather coverage at the high-stocking density. The white strain had improved uniformity and worse tail and total feather coverage at the low-stocking density. The majority of parameters evaluated had strain and age main and/or interaction effects only. Ultimately, cage-free pullets had limited negative effects at the high and low-stocking densities used. Management choices during the pullet phase can affect behavior, welfare, and health later in life, but few studies have evaluated the pullet phase, particularly in extensive housing systems. This study was a 2 × 2 factorial randomized complete block design (RCBD) with two strains and two stocking densities. The Lohmann LB-Lite and Lohmann LSL-Lite were housed on the floor at high-stocking density (619–670 cm2/bird) and low-stocking density (1249–1352 cm2/bird), which changed with age from 2 to 16 weeks of age (WOA). Bird-based measures of appearance, blood parameters, organ measurements, and production values were evaluated. Stocking density alone affected (p < 0.05) only relative bursal weight (% of body weight)—3.32% in the low-density versus 3.08% in the high-density group. High-stocking density was correlated with decreased uniformity (high—89.33 ± 0.24%; low—90.41 ± 0.24; p < 0.02) and worse feather coverage in the brown strain. High-stocking density was correlated with greater uniformity (High—90.39 ± 0.24%; Low—88.47 ± 0.24%; p < 0.001) and better feather coverage in the white strain. This study's feed conversion ratio (FCR) was improved by 0.07 in the low-stocking density for both strains. The remaining parameters were affected by strain and age only. Thus, while stocking density effects vary slightly depending on the strain used, cage-free pullets had limited negative effects at both the high and low-stocking densities tested in this study; there were few to no changes in the numerous bird-based welfare parameters tested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To summarize the performance and implementation status of various randomization methods, and to provide clinical researchers with a guide for choosing an appropriate randomization method and executing it in a standardized manner. Methods The review elucidated the conceptual and implementation integrity of randomization, and illuminated the developmental history and application of major randomization methods, as well as their performance in the two competitive dimensions of group allocation randomness and group sample balance. Results Restricted randomization was frequently used to maintain an appropriate treatment balance in practice. Block randomization was the most widely used, but its allocation sequence lacked sufficient randomness and could be predicted, elevating the risk of selection bias, especially in open-label trials. Methods offering a superior trade-off between randomness and balance included MTI restricted randomization methods like the big stick design and maximal procedure, as well as combinations of multiple randomization methods such as the block urn design and sandwich mixed randomization. Many clinical researchers still had misconceptions about the randomization concept itself and often overlooked its critical methodological rigor and standardized implementation. Conclusion Researchers should meticulously choose a suitable randomization method and report implementation details in a standardized manner, allowing peer researchers to evaluate the internal validity and evidence strength of the study. Due to its high predictability, the widely used block randomization method should be substituted by alternative methods with better performance. Future randomization procedures can be explored and developed based on the MTI restrictive methods and the combinations of existing methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

3,4‐Dimethylenecyclobutene (DMCB) is an unusual isomer of benzene. Motivated by recent synthetic progress to substituted derivatives of this scaffold, we carried out a theoretical and computational analysis with a particular focus on the extent of (anti)aromatic character in the lowest excited states of different multiplicities. We found that the parent DMCB is non‐aromatic in its singlet ground state (S0), lowest triplet state (T1), and lowest singlet excited state (S1), while it is aromatic in its lowest quintet state (Q1) as this state is represented by a triplet multiplicity cyclobutadiene (CBD) ring and two uncoupled same‐spin methylene radicals. Interestingly, the Q1 state, despite having four unpaired electrons, is placed merely 4.8 eV above S0, and there is a corresponding singlet tetraradical 0.16 eV above. The DMCB is potentially a highly useful structural motif for the design of larger molecular entities with interesting optoelectronic properties. Here, we designed macrocycles composed of fused DMCB units, and according to our computations, two of these have low‐lying nonet states (i. e., octaradical states) at energies merely 2.40 and 0.37 eV above their S0 states as a result of local Hückel‐ and Baird‐aromatic character of individual 6π‐ and 4π‐electron monocycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was carried out with a total of 24 bread wheat genotypes including 20 advanced lines and 4 check varieties (Gerek79, Carisma, Bayraktar2000, and Artico) with soft grain structure and four replications according to the randomized complete block design in Hamidiye and Karabayır locations of Eskişehir during the 2014-2015 growing season. In the study, grain yield, thousand grain weight, test weight, kernel hardness, Zeleny sedimentation value, ash content and protein content were investigated in the genotypes. According to the results of the analysis of variance performed for the traits examined in the study, the differences between location, bread wheat genotypes and interaction averages were found to be statistically significant, except for Zeleny sedimentation value and protein content, respectively. It is understood that there is a wide variation between genotypes and locations for other traits, except for the protein ratio trait. While location effects are higher than genotype effects for thousand grain weight, test weight, ash content and protein content, genotype effects are higher than location for single kernel characterization system and Zeleny sedimentation value. The mean grain yield of biscuit wheat genotypes ranged from 4425 kg ha-1 to 2000 kg ha-1 . Considering the trial quality results; it was observed that there was a high rate of variation between genotypes for thousand grain weight (32.67-48.61 g), test weight (82.40-75.25 kg hl-1 ), kernel hardness (17.08-39.68), Zeleny sedimentation value (20.63-33.00 ml) and ash content (0.478% - 0.610%), respectively. While BİS-3, BİS-6, BİS-9, BİS-18, BİS-21 and BİS-22 were bestperformed lines for grain yield, BİS-3, BİS-9, BİS-11, BİS-12, BİS-13 and BİS-19 were the prominent lines for biscuit-making quality trait. It was concluded that it would be appropriate to include these lines in yield trials before registration as a variety of candidates. Keywords: Soft bread wheat, Grain yield, Kernel ch [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a super‐resolution reconstruction model, SRPGANto improve the visual quality of images based on generative adversarial networks (GANs) by improving the network structures of the generator and the discriminator. In the generator, a dual branch residual block is designed instead of the residual block, including a branch with an attention mechanism and a branch without an attention mechanism, to extract more differentiated features. Normalization methods are explored to avoid unstable training and bath normalization artifacts and use a half instance normalization layer that is more suitable for underlying visual problems compared with traditional batch normalization. In the discriminator, PatchGAN is applied instead of typical GAN to improve the generation of local texture by discriminating each patch rather than the global image. The experimental results on the public datasets demonstrate that the proposed SRPGAN can achieve excellent quantitative evaluation while improving the visual quality of reconstructed images. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The potential of biofortified crops and their critical role in Rwandan diets motivated the Ministry of Agriculture through Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB) to adopt a national policy of combating micronutrients' deficiencies by developing and releasing fortified crop varieties. In this context, 37 biofortified potato (Solanum tuberosum) clones were introduced from the International Potato Center (CIP) and evaluated for two growing seasons in four agroecological zones in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. The evaluation was conducted on the vegetative development traits, root yield (ton/ha), dry matter content (%), iron and zinc (mg/kg) content, flesh color, processing qualities, and taste. The average yield varied between 11.5 and 20.8 ton/ha for biofortified potato clones, while the local checks revealed a yield ranging between 21.5 and 21.8 ton/ha. The dry matter content was between 18.9% and 25.9%, while the local check revealed a dry matter content ranging between 22.4% and 25.4%. The iron and zinc contents ranging between 11.51–27.84 mg/kg and 22.39–43.57 mg/kg was observed on tested bifortifed potato clones, while these contents were ranging between 5.23–8.12 mg/kg and 19.17–21.88 mg/kg for local checks, respectively. Five biofortified clones (CIP312507.311, CIP312764.013, CIP312721.169, CIP312735.253, and CIP312682.042) revealed a chipping quality similar to Kinigi, the most popular potato variety in Rwanda. Regarding the culinary test, the clone CIP312725.057 revealed a bitter taste, 10 clones were ranked as very well, and two clones were ranked as good. Regarding the farmers' feedback, seven clones, namely, CIP312764.013, CIP312721.169, CIP312735.253, CIP312682.042, CIP312721.038, CIP312621.069, and CIP312637.132, were ranked as very good including the local checks Kinigi and Kirundo. Three clones (CIP312507.311, CIP312725.048, and CIP312721.286) were ranked as good, while the clones CIP312507.312 and CIP312725.057 were ranked as bad. In this study, 10 good clones were selected for further evaluation for release as the first biofortified potato varieties in Rwanda or used in crossing blocks for population improvement. Core Ideas: Thirty‐seven tetraploid biofortified potato clones were introduced and evaluated in Rwanda.The tested tetraploid biofortified potato clones revealed significant differences in all evaluated traits.The iron and zinc contents were extremely high in tetraploid biofortified potato clones as compared to local checks.Based on results, 10 clones were selected with the potential to be released as the first biofortifed potato in Rwanda.The selected clones can also be used in crossing blocks for population improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the narrow genetic base of both Deli and AVROS populations used in Malaysian commercial planting materials, exotic germplasm from Nigeria has been introduced into existing breeding populations. This study was conducted to select the best families from 38 dura × pisifera (D × P) families for the development of new high-yielding planting materials. The families were planted at the MPOB Research Station Hulu Paka, Terengganu, Malaysia, in 2007, in a randomised complete block design with three replications. Bunch yield recording, bunch quality components estimations, and vegetative measurements were analysed using analysis of variance, followed by comparisons between family means, heritability estimates, and cluster analysis. Highly significant genetic variation was observed for all traits among the 38 D × P families. Families PK 4044, ECP HP 496, ECP HP 500, and ECP HP 502 exhibited excellent yield-related traits such as fresh fruit bunch (FFB) yield, bunch number (BNO), oil yield (OY), total economic product (TEP), and total oil content (TOT). Although the broad-sense heritability estimates were low for FFB yield (15.8%), moderate for TEP (53.8%) and TOT (55.2%), the estimates were high for BNO (80.9%) and OY (62.7%). The families clustered into three main clusters with several sub-clusters, whereby the high-yielding four families (PK 4044, ECP HP 496, ECP HP 500, and ECP HP 502) were clustered together. Using these families as commercial planting materials may potentially increase the national oil yield, which has stagnated for a few decades, and subsequently contribute to the advancement of the oil palm industry in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We develop a novel deep learning method for the enhanced index tracking problem, which aims to outperform an index while effectively controlling the tracking error. We generate a dynamic trading policy from a neural network that accepts a set of features as inputs. We design four blocks in the neural network architecture to handle different types of features, including regimes of the index and stocks, their short-term characteristics, and the current allocation. Outputs from the blocks are integrated into the final output that changes the portfolio allocation. We test our model on several indexes in empirical studies based on real market data. Out-of-sample results reveal the importance of different features and demonstrate the ability of our method in obtaining excess returns while effectively controlling the tracking error, downside risk, and transaction costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Winged bean (Psophocarpus tetragonolobus L.) exhibits luxuriant foliage, making leaf pruning essential to enhance sunlight interception. Additionally, supplementing with additional fertilizer helps offset the impact of gradual harvesting. Therefore, this research aimed to determine the effect of leaf pruning and additional fertilizer on the growth and yield parameter of winged beans in the Institut Pertanian Bogor (IPB) experimental station at Leuwikopo, IPB University, Bogor, Indonesia. A randomized complete block design was used with two factors and three replications, namely leaf pruning intensities (0, 15, and 30% leaf pruning) and rates of additional fertilizer (0, 6.25, 12.5, and 18.5 g NPK 16-16-16/plant). The observed variables were plant height, leaf number, root length, leaf nutrient, auxin content, nutrient uptake, and young pods yield. The findings revealed that the interaction of pruning intensities and additional fertilizer rates significantly influenced leaf number and root length. Specifically, plants receiving a treatment combination without pruning and 6.25 g of additional fertilizer/plant exhibited the highest leaf number. In contrast, those subjected to 15% leaf pruning showed the greatest root length. Leaf nutrient levels, auxin content, and nutrient uptake exhibited noticeable improved with the addition of fertilizer. Meanwhile, a higher phosphorus and organic carbon content was observed in the 15% pruning treatment, and the young pods yield were not affected because the Fairuz variety reached its potential yield. Based on the results, the most recommended treatment is a combination without leaf pruning, supplemented with 6.25 g of additional fertilizer/plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The estimation of rock mass strength is a crucial step in pillar design. While the tri-linear (or S-shaped) failure criterion has been proposed to estimate the strength of massive to moderately jointed hard rock masses at low confinement, it remains unclear whether this criterion is applicable to designing wide pillars at great depths, where the pillar core is highly confined. This study employs a plane strain Block Bonded Model (BBM), consisting of polygonal blocks that can break at their contacts, to examine the applicability of the tri-linear strength criterion for estimating the strength of hard rock pillars with various width-to-height ratios (W/H). Furthermore, this study aims to identify a BBM with suitable constitutive laws for blocks (i.e., zones) and contacts that realistically captures the strength and failure mechanism of hard rock pillars under compressive loading conditions. The numerical simulations are based on the case of pillar failures at the Quirke Mine, ON, Canada. The simulation results have revealed that the model calibrated to the tri-linear strength envelope overestimates the strength of pillars with W/H greater than 0.5. However, the pillar model with the Cohesion-Weakening Friction-Strengthening (CWFS) behavior for blocks and Cohesion- and Friction-Weakening (CFW) behavior for contacts realistically captures the expected failure mechanism and post-peak response when calibrated to the empirical pillar strength data. The rock mass strength back-analyzed from this model was found to follow the in situ damage initiation stress level at low confinement but significantly underestimates the confined rock mass strength estimated using the tri-linear strength criterion. Highlights: A Bonded Block Model was calibrated to the Quirke Mine rock mass strength estimated using the tri-linear strength criterion. The calibrated bonded block model was found to overestimate the strength of hard rock pillars with width-to-height ratios greater than 0.5. The Bonded Block Model was calibrated to the empirical pillar strength data, and then used to estimate the rock mass strength. The back-calculated rock mass strength was found to underestimate the confined rock mass strength estimated using the tri-linear strength criterion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated chromium and quantitative and qualitative feed restriction as alternative nutritional strategies to ractopamine in finishing barrows. Fifty barrows, genetically similar, with an initial body weight of 99.0 ± 4.3 kg and a final body weight of 117.2 ± 5.8 kg were used. The animals were distributed in a randomized complete block design with five nutritional treatments (Control; Rac = 10ppm ractopamine; Chromium = 0,8mg chromium yeast; Quality = qualitative restriction, 7.5% less net energy in the diet; Quanti = 15% quantitative reduction in feed supply), with five replicates and two animals per replicate. Chromium supplementation and quantitative feed restriction reduced feed, lysine, net energy, and crude protein intakes (P < 0.05). Chromium, ractopamine, and quantitative restriction improved feed conversion (P < 0.05). Supplementation with chromium and ractopamine and feed restriction did not influence the carcass characteristics of the pigs (P < 0.05). Quantitative feed restriction and supplementation of 0.8mg of chromium yeast are presented as potential alternatives to ractopamine in the diet of finishing pigs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The production of high‐oil‐yielding hybrid varieties is a primary objective in oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.) breeding programs. Biometric genetic experiments such as line × tester provide valuable insights into the genetic structure of traits associated with high oil yield. Methods: In this study, 21 winter hybrids of oilseed rape were evaluated, which were generated by crossing three restorers with seven CMS lines. The experiment was conducted using a line × tester experiment based on a completely randomized block design. Phenological, agronomic, yield, and oil yield components were assessed in this study. The ideal genotype selection index (SIIG) methodology was also employed to identify superior hybrids based on all studied traits simultaneously. Results: Significant differences were observed between the obtained hybrids and the check cultivars. Heritability analysis revealed that phenological traits were primarily controlled by additive effects, while agronomic and qualitative traits were mainly influenced by non‐additive gene effects. Both broad‐sense and narrow‐sense heritability exhibited a wide range, underscoring the importance of genetic variance. Notably, the hybrids T1 × L5, T1 × L6, and T3 × L1 showed significant specific combining ability values of 394.74, 541.73, and 1236.79, respectively, making them the top specific combinations for increasing seed yield. Based on the SIIG index, hybrids T3 × L1, T1 × L5, T1 × L3, and T2 × L3 emerged as high‐oil‐yielding hybrids with desirable agronomic traits. Conclusions: The identified superior hybrids by line × tester and SIIG approaches hold promise for the development of high‐yielding oilseed rape cultivars with desirable agronomic traits in oilseed rape breeding programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The multi‐environmental trials aid breeders in selecting the best genotypes for specific or general adaptability to different environments before commercial release. This study aimed to assess the stability of 13 new soybean pure lines, along with two controls, in terms of seed yield and important agronomic traits. The assessment was based on a completely randomized block design with three replications across four areas during 2020–2022. Various adaptability methods, including parametric, AMMI, GGE biplot, PCA, and SIIG were employed. The mixed analysis showed that the effects of environment, genotype, and genotype–environment (GE) interaction were significant for most studied traits. The AMMI showed the highest portion of environment (65.89%) in soybean seed yield. Based on all stability parameters, lines 2 and 5 were selected for their average seed yields of 3349 and 3142 kg ha−1, respectively. Additionally, lines 6 and 5 showed the most stability, yielding higher than the average, which were 2992 and 3142 kg ha−1, respectively, according to GGE biplot results. Furthermore, lines 2, 5, and 8 were identified as the ideal genotypes concerning seed yield and other agronomic traits, with high SIIG parameters and yields exceeding the average. Finally, the soybean line 5 was deemed the most suitable due to its higher yield, stability, and early maturity (128‐day growth period). Therefore, line 5 is considered appropriate for its high stability and earliness in various regions of Iran. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Stimuli received beyond a very short timeframe, known as temporal binding windows (TBWs), are perceived as separate events. In previous audio‐visual multisensory integration (McGurk effect) studies, widening of TBWs has been observed in people with schizophrenia. The present study aimed to determine if dexamphetamine could increase TBWs in unimodal auditory and unimodal visual illusions that may have some validity as experimental models for auditory and visual hallucinations in psychotic disorders. Methods: A double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, counter‐balanced crossover design with permuted block randomisation for drug order was followed. Dexamphetamine (0.45 mg/kg, PO, q.d.) was administered to healthy participants. Phantom word illusion (speech illusion) and visual‐induced flash illusion/VIFI (visual illusion) tests were measured to determine if TBWs were altered as a function of delay between stimuli presentations. Word emotional content for phantom word illusions was also analysed. Results: Dexamphetamine significantly increased the total number of phantom words/speech illusions (p < 0.01) for pooled 220–1100 ms ISIs in kernel density estimation and the number of positive valence words heard (beta = 2.20, 95% CI [1.86, 2.55], t = 12.46, p < 0.001) with a large effect size (std. beta = 1.05, 95% CI [0.89, 1.22]) relative to placebo without affecting the TBWs. For the VIFI test, kernel density estimation for pooled 0–801 ms ISIs showed a significant difference (p < 0.01) in the data distributions of number of target flash (es) perceived by participants after receiving dexamphetamine as compared with placebo. Conclusions: Overall, healthy participants who were administered dexamphetamine (0.45 mg/kg, PO, q.d.) experienced increases in auditory and visual illusions in both phantom word illusion and VIFI tests without affecting their TBWs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eastern gamagrass (Tripsacum dactyloides) is a highly productive, highly palatable native grass tolerant to both drought and flooding. It has frequently shown great response to nitrogen (N) applications, but the responses of southern native ecotypes in upland and bottomland sites have yet to be reported. The objectives were to measure the responses of long-established eastern gamagrass with different N application rates in two bottomland hay pastures and two upland grazed sites, and to measure the N responses for six diverse ecotypes in a common garden. A randomized block design was used with ecotype as the main block and fertilizer rate as the subplot. In the long-established sites, 75 N peak yields were not statistically different to those of 0 N, while upland yields across the season were consistently higher for 150 N but varied for the bottomland. The common garden ecotypes had no significant difference in yield between treatments when averaged across years. Roaring Springs showed the most consistent and greatest benefit to additional N, more than doubling the dry weight of the control. All remaining ecotypes, however, had more modest responses. Eastern gamagrass responds inconsistently to applications of 75 N, whereas most applications of 150 N generally result in higher yield, though significant increases are not guaranteed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The MR-induced gradient artifact affects EMG recordings during simultaneous muscle BOLD/EMG acquisitions. However, no dedicated hardware can remove the gradient artifact easily, and alternative methods are expensive and time-consuming. This study aimed to develop three denoising methods requiring different processing levels and MR-compatible hardware. At two time points, surface EMG was recorded from the lower leg of 6 participants (50:50 sex ratio, age = 26.24.6 yrs., height = 173.59.2 cm, weight = 71.511.4 kg) using a plantar flexion-based block design consisting of 30s of rest followed by 30s of flexion for 5 min, under three conditions: inside the MRI bore, with and without a BOLD sequence (3 T, BOLD sequence, GRE EPI, 10 slices, 64×64 matrix, 2 mm thickness, and TE/TR/flip = 35/3000 ms/70), and outside the MRI environment. Simultaneous BOLD/EMG recordings were denoised using average artifact subtraction with three methods of artifact template creation, each having varying timing and hardware requirements. Method M1 builds the artifact template by recording the scanner triggers coming from the MRI; M2 creates the artifact template with a constant artifact period computed as TR/[number of slices]; M3 estimates the artifact template by looking at the periodicity of the gradient artifact located in the EMG recordings. Following postprocessing, SNR analysis was performed, comparing rest-to-flexion periods, to assess the efficacy of denoising methods and to compare differences between conditions. Linear mixed-effects models showed no significant differences in the mean SNR between denoising methods (p = 0.656). Furthermore, EMG SNR measurements were significantly affected by the magnetic environment (p < 0.05) but not by muscle fatigue over time (p = 0.975). EMG recordings contaminated with gradient artifacts during simultaneous BOLD/EMG can be efficiently denoised using all proposed methods, with two methods requiring no extra hardware. With minimal post-processing, EMG can easily be performed during muscle BOLD MRI studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hops are grown mainly for the brewing market due to the rich chemical composition that gives beer aroma and bitterness. Brazil is one of the largest beer producers and consumers in the world and one of the largest hop importers. There is growing demand and interest in producing hops for domestic supply; however, as this crop originates from a temperate climate and the Northern Hemisphere, it is important to carry out research that describes the development of hops in a tropical climate to provide information on its cultivation in Brazil, as well as to determine its behavior in organic cultivation. A randomized block design was adopted, the treatments consisted of two cropping systems, conventional and organic, for Hallertau Mittelfrueh variety cultivation, with four blocks and three plants per plot. Gas exchange analyzes of plants under both cultivation systems were performed to obtain measurements of A, gs, Ci, E, WUE and A/Ci, morphometric and yield analyzes were also carried out. In comparison with the plants of the organic system, the plants of the conventional cultivation had greater photosynthetic efficiency; however, the practices adopted in the organic cultivation system provided the plants with greater productive capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant selection conducted in commercial orchards is mainly based on plant features. This study characterizes and selects acerola tree genotypes with promising features for cultivation in the Gurguéia Valley region, Piauí. Twenty-five genotypes were used, consisting of 15 clones (CL 03, CL 08, CL 09, CL 12, CL 13, CL 14, CL 20, CL 23, CL 26, CL 27, CL 30, CL 31, CL 33, CL 36, and CL 38) and 10 cultivars (BRS 235, BRS 236, BRS 237, BRS 238, BRS 366, Sertaneja, Costa Rita, Morena, Tropicana, and Junko). The experiment was set up in a randomized block design with three blocks and three plants per experimental unit in 4 m x 3 m spacing. A total of 40% of the genotypes evaluated showed an umbrella shape, 36% showed a semi-open shape, and 24% showed an open shape. Clones 09, 14, and 12 presented the highest cultivation potential in the region, with monthly production of 5.01, 4.30, and 3.70 kg plant-1 per year and productivity of 4.16, 3.59, and 3. 08-ton ha-1, respectively. Clone 27, cultivars BRS 236 and BRS 235, and clone 14 were the earliest genotypes, requiring 1,503.3, 1,535.6, 1,686.6, and 1,686.6 DD; respectively, to complete their cycle. Clones 09 and 14 stood out from the others and are potentially promising for cultivation in the Gurgueia Valley region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the economic importance of maize, it is essential to evaluate the performance of genotypes under environmental variations (years, locations, and seasons). Consequently, researchers have scrutinized genotype-environment (G×E) interactions to ensure reliability in genotype recommendations. Furthermore, when a G×E interaction exists, adaptability and stability analysis can be performed. This analysis enables one to identify genotypes with predictable responses and adaptability to environmental variability. Hence, this study sought to determine if there is a G×E interaction and evaluate the response of 16 maize genotypes across seven environments through adaptability and stability analyses. Seven experiments were conducted with 16 maize genotypes using a randomized complete block design with three replications. Tassel length (TL), tassel branch number (TBN), tassel dry matter (TDM), and grain yield (GY) were evaluated. Individual and joint variance analyses were performed, along with the F-test at a 5% significance level. The complex parts of the interaction between genotypes and pairs of environments were estimated, followed by adaptability and stability analyses using the Eberhart and Russell method. A genotype-environment interaction was found for TL, TBN, TDM, and GY, indicating that genotypes respond differently in various environments. However, considering all four traits, there is no indication of the ideal genotype. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study carried out early selection of soybean progenies that are productive and resilient to environmental conditions. The experiment took place at the Genetic Breeding Program of UNIJUI (University of the Northwest of the State of Rio Grande do Sul), located in Ijuí - RS, Brazil. The experiment used augmented blocks design with interim checks. The regular treatments correspond to 24 soybean F2 populations and the common treatments were 18 commercial checks, arranged in four replications. At full physiological maturity, in each experimental unit, five plants were randomly collected to obtain seed weight per plant (SWP, g). The Jinks and Pooni methodology was used to calculate the probability of extracting superior lineages from the evaluated populations. The best control and promising cultivars to compose the parent bank are BMX FORÇA RR, FUNDACEP 66 RR and TMG 7062 IPRO. Jinks and Pooni's methodology identified populations IRC001, IRC002, IRC017, IRC019, IRC028, IRC030, IRC032, IRC033, IRC035, IRC036, IRC039 and IRC040 as having high potential for extraction of superior lineages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to explore the effect of vermicompost on the growth and physiological parameters of the tomato plant (Solanum lycopersicum L.). The experiment was carried out in a complete random block design. In the initial nursery phase, different percentages (20, 30, and 40%) of vermicompost/compost were used, and the mixture containing 15% of each was evaluated in the cell plug trays. In the transplanting phase, seedlings randomly selected based on their superior growth performance from treatments involving 20% compost/vermicompost, as well as the mixture were subsequently transplanted into pots filled with organic soil. Plants were monitored until the flowering stage, and measurements were taken at different growth stages of the plant, such as shoot length, stem diameter, number of leaves, root length, fresh and dry weight of the plant. Moreover, some physiological parameters, such as chlorophyll and carotenoid contents, were assessed. An ANOVA using SPSS was used to process the data collected from the experiment. The results showed that vermicompost treatments induced a significant increase in shoot length, stem diameter, leaves number, root length, contents of chlorophyll a and carotenoid of tomato plants compared to the control, with an improvement of 54, 38, 38, 70, 44, and 69.5%, respectively. These findings highlight the potential of vermicompost as a potential nutrient source for crop production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent attention has increasingly focused on the significance of Definitive Screening Designs (DSDs), originally introduced by Jones and Nachtsheim (2011), as a compelling alternative to traditional designs bib Response Surface Methodology (RSM). This paper introduces two novel composite techniques aimed at enhancing design efficiency and elevating D-values. By utilizing orthogonal matrices and integrating axial components from either simple orthogonal designs or the block orthogonal designs detailed in the work of Alrweili et al. (2020), new design matrices are constructed based on established composite design principles. Notably, the novel designs presented in this manuscript surpass previously documented designs in the existing literature in terms of design efficiency and robustness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was conducted at the Horticulture Research Institute, Agriculture Research Center, Egypt, from 2022 to 2023 to study the inheritance of some economic characters in dry beans. Three dry bean cultivars, namely DB 435, Giza 6, and Nebraska, were chosen to produce two crosses and their reciprocals. The direct crosses were DB 435 × Giza 6 and DB 435 × Nebraska. Seeds of the P1, P2, F1, F1r, and F2 populations from the two crosses were planted on March 2, 2023, using a randomized complete block design. The results indicated that over-dominance or complete dominance was estimated for the high parent in all studied traits. Positive heterosis over the better parent was detected for most of the studied traits, suggesting the presence of additive gene action affecting these traits. High or moderate broad-sense heritability was recorded for all traits, indicating that these characteristics could be used as suitable criteria for selection and improvement in dry bean breeding programs, except for the trait number of seeds per pod, which showed low heritability. Results indicated that selection for dry yield per plant could be substituted by the number of pods per plant and average seed weight traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introducing nanomaterials in gas sensor applications has conspicuously improved the detection performance due to the unique nanostructures. Transition-metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) recently aroused widespread interest because of their ultrathin and layered two-dimensional nanosheet structures. The graphene-like MoS2 has good electrical, chemical, mechanical, and optical properties, making it of great interest for developing gas sensors and an exceptionally promising building block for designing novel semiconducting nanomaterials. The content of this mini-review aspires to summarize the current progress on mono/few-layered MoS2-based gas sensors and the influence of different components. Herein, we described the current progress on MoS2-based gas sensors, which encompasses the preparation and application of MoS2, and the potential improvement directions for future possibilities of expanding its applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In two different locations -- the Badush Dam area and the College of Agriculture and Forestry- University of Mosul, Iraq -- a field experiment commenced in the winter of 2021--2022 to investigate how planting distances between lines at 30, 45, and 60 cm affect the growth and productivity characteristics of safflower cultivars (Gilla, Almais, and Urdine). The experiment with a randomized complete block design used two parameters. The outcomes showed significant differences between planting distances in most read-up attributes for both regions. A planting distance of 30 cm gave the most essential impetus for the height of a plant in the Badush Dam region. Moreover, both regions recorded the highest rate for seeds/capitula from a planting distance of 45 cm and the maximum rate for branches/plant, leaf area, 1000-seed weight, seed yield, oil content (%), and oil yield, and capitula/plant only in the college region. In both experimental sites, the varieties substantially impacted every trait under study. The highest values emerged for the Gilla variety for the 1000-seed weight at both sites. The utmost rates showed for the plant height, branches/plant, leaf area, capitula/plant, seeds/capitula, seed yield, and percentage of oil for the Almais variety. Moreover, the oil yield regarding branches/plants in the kidney site, leaf area in the dam site, and seed yield in both sites revealed a significant interaction between the Almais variety and the planting distance of 60 cm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presented experiment on faba bean (Vicia faba L.) began in the winter of 2022-2023 at the College of The presented experiment on faba bean (Vicia faba L.) began in the winter of 2022-2023 at the College of Agriculture, University of Anbar, Anbar, Iraq. The study aimed to determine the effects of foliar application of zinc on the growth and physiological traits of the faba bean genotypes. The experiment had a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with a split-plot arrangement and three replications. The prime plots included three concentrations of zinc, i.e., 0, 30, and 60 mg Zn L-1, while the subplots comprised three different genotypes (American, Dutch, and Spanish) of faba beans. The results revealed that the faba genotypes significantly displayed their latent potential in growth and physiological parameters. The American faba bean genotype proved superior in plant height (37.52 cm), leaf area (1413 cm² plant-1), and zinc concentration in leaves (113.30 mg kg-1 dry matter). However, the Spanish faba bean genotype led to an average leaf chlorophyll content (56.59 SPAD). The zinc foliar application with the highest concentration (60 mg L-1) provided the least number of days to flowering (60.89 days) and also excelled in obtaining the tallest plants (41.13 cm), branches per plant (3.85), leaf area (1337.6 cm² plant-1), the chlorophyll content (52.23 SPAD), and the zinc concentration in leaves (116.58 mg kg-1 dry matter). The interaction of the American faba bean genotype and the highest zinc foliar application (60 mg L-1) significantly affected the plant height, leaf area, and zinc concentration in leaves. The interaction between the Spanish genotype and zinc concentration (60 mg L-1) gave the highest average for leaf chlorophyll content, and the interaction of the Dutch genotype with the highest zinc concentration exhibited a shorter period from planting to flowering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evaluation of nine exotic cabbage varieties and a local variety commenced at the Research Field of the Department of Agriculture, Noakhali Science and Technology University (NSTU), Bangladesh, following a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. This study aimed to identify the most suitable exotic varieties based on morphophysiological and biochemical traits compared with a check variety. Significant variations (P < 0.01) for all the characteristics, except chlorophyll content, emerged from the study. A highly significant positive association (r ≥ 0.75) was evident for the head diameter of cabbage varieties with head width, stump thickness, core length, and weight with folded and unfolded leaves. On cluster analysis, varieties V2, V3, and V10 were in the same clusters. About the PCA, PC1 accounted for 50.29% of the total variation. However, the maximum plant diameter (65 cm) occurred in V10, and the widest leaf petiole length (8.13 cm) was visible in V3. Yet, the highest head length (13.16 cm), head diameter (19.51 cm), head width (18.33 cm), weight with unfolded leaves (2.00 kg), and weight with folded leaves (1.44 kg) appeared in V10, which are very close to V2 and V3. Also, genetic parameters estimation and heatmap analysis revealed high genetic advance and positive variation, respectively, regarding head diameter, head width, and weight with folded and unfolded leaves. Finally, V2 and V3 varieties could better serve for further genetic improvement for cabbage growers and plant breeders in Bangladesh. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The latest study strategized to evaluate the maize populations by combining ability analysis under optimum and drought-stress environments to assemble the promising parental inbred lines and their hybrid populations with high productivity and resistance to drought stress. From the collection of the Trunojoyo Madura University, Indonesia, came five maize pure lines (UTM 2, UTM 7, UTM 10, UTM 19, and UTM 31) that received crossing in a complete diallel fashion to obtain 20 hybrid populations. The performance of five parental inbred lines and their 20 F1 hybrids' evaluation in crop season 2021 had a randomized complete block design with three replications under four each for optimum and droughtstress environmental conditions. Data recording ensued on grain yield and drought susceptibility index (DSI). The GCA and SCA variances revealed that grain yield had more influences from the dominant genes with maternal effects at the eight locations; hence, the parental lines have less stimulus on the hybrids' performance. The genotype UTM2 (G1) appeared resistant to drought-stress conditions based on the DSI value (0.70) and has positive GCA effects for grain yield. Therefore, it can better serve to improve drought resistance and grain yield. The results further exhibited that six maize hybrids, i.e., G3 (UTM 2 x UTM 10), G6 (UTM 7 x UTM 2), G10 (UTM 7 x UTM 31), G11 (UTM 10 x UTM 2), G22 (UTM 31 x UTM 10), and G24 (UTM 31 x UTM 19) were remarkable as commercial hybrids with high grain yield and resistance to drought stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: An investigation was performed to identify epistasis, additive, dominance components of genetic variation and yield and yield variability attributing characteristics by triple test cross testing involving three testers (P1, P2 and F1) and ten rice lines. Methods: The study materials consisted of F1 seeds of three crosses, involving six parents namely, ASD16, ADT47, ASD18, CO51, TKM9 and MTU 7029. They are evaluated in randomized complete block design with three replications. Observations were reported for seven traits, namely plant height, number of tillers per plant, number of productive tillers per plant, length of panicle, number of grains per panicle, weight of 1000 grains and yield of grain per plant on five randomly selected plants per replication. Result: The segregating population of three crosses exhibited wide range of variability for most of the traits. The difference between GCV and PCV was low for most of the characters indicated less influence of environment. Among the three crosses ASD18 X CO15 recorded high percent of heritability and genetic advance for grain yield per plant. The estimate of total epistasis revealed that i type of epistasis (additive X additive) was highly significant for number of tillers per plant, number of productive tillers per plant, panicle length and 1000 grain weight. The effect of the additive (D) variance was very important for all the traits except the number of grains per panicle. Across all traits, the degree of dominance (H/D)1/2 was less than unity (< 1) suggesting, partial of dominance. Since, the pre dominance component of epistasis in autogamous crop is additive X additive (i type), it was suggested that the selection may be post ponded to later generation until all the non-additive components of variance has been mitigated to additive components. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Randomized controlled trials are widely accepted as the best design for evaluating the efficacy of a treatment, due to the advantages of randomization. The objectives of randomization include removing bias in the assignment of treatments, balancing numbers allocated to arms, and balancing observed and unobserved covariates between arms. Different randomization procedures, each with varying properties of randomness and balance, are available and investigators must be careful to select one that will result in desirable properties. In this article, we use a simulation study, based on two real clinical trials, to empirically test several allocation procedures for multi-arm trials: simple randomization, permuted block randomization, stratified randomization with permuted blocks, urn design, block urn design, stratified block urn design, andminimization.We evaluate properties such as group size balance, covariate balance, loss of precision (i.e., increase in the variance of treatment effect estimates), and predictability of assignment. We also compare different definitions of statistical power relevant inmulti-arm trials:marginal, disjunctive, and conjunctive powers. Based on the simulation results, the considered randomization methods have very little impact on the resultant powers. Consistently strong performance was seen across the performance metrics for stratified block randomization and the stratified block urn design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The investigation was conducted to calculate the superiority % for of the F1’s over commercial check hybrids, combining ability and genetic variability of eleven white maize inbred lines using a half-diallel design at Sids Agricultural Research Station in the 2022 growing season. The 55 crosses along with two commercial hybrids as checks; SC-10 and Hytech SC-2031 were evaluated in field trials at Sids, Sakha, and Gemmeiza Agricultural Research Stations using randomized complete block design with three replications in the growing season 2023. The results showed highly significant differences between three locations for all studied traits except GY and DTS traits. Mean squares for crosses and their interaction with locations were significant for all studied traits except for EHT. Also, variances of GCA and SCA were significant for all studied traits except EHT, indicating that additive and non-additive gene effects were important in the inheritance of most studied traits. However additive gene effects were more important than non-additive gene effects in the inheritance of all studied traits except for GY. Two inbred lines; Sd-4/2013 and Sk-12 had good general combining effects for GY. The best cross for SCA effects was Sd-63 × Gz-613 for GY; and Sd-1185 × Gz-613 for DTS. The cross Sd-2/2013 × Sk-9 was superior for grain yield and earliness than two checks. Also, four crosses; (Sd-2/2013 × Gz613), (Sd-41/2015 × Sk-13), (Sd-63 × Gz-613) and (Sd-1185 × Sk-9), were significantly superiority% relative to the two checks. These crosses will be further evaluated in the maize breeding program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The investigation was conducted during the rabi season (September 2019 to February 2020) of 2019 to 2020 at the research field of All India Co-ordinated Vegetable Crops, located at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya in Kalyani, Nadia, West Bengal, India. The aim of the study was to examine the characteristics of twenty-six chilli genotypes across twelve qualitative traits. The investigation unveiled a broad range of phenotypic variability using Randomized Block Design in three replications. Among the assessed traits, leaf density, leaf shape, fruit shape, plant habit, fruit curvature, and anther colour exhibited the most extensive variations among the genotypes. Conversely, the traits with the least diversity values, all falling below the overall mean, included fruit surface (0.28%), leaf colour (0.42%), stem pubescence (0.42%), stem colour (0.42%), anthocyanin colouration at nodes (0.48%), and leaf pubescence (0.48%). The Shannon-Weiner Diversity Index (H') ranged from 0.28 to 1.07. Of the traits evaluated, leaf density displayed the highest diversity index (1.07), followed by leaf shape (1.05), fruit shape (1.01), plant habit (0.86), fruit curvature (0.69), and anther colour (0.58). The obtained Shannon-Weiner Diversity Index, with an average value of 64.66%, confirmed the presence of significant diversity within the examined chilli genotypes. The results suggest that the indirect selection of chilli parent plants based on a range of morphological characteristics can offer advantages in the management of both biotic and abiotic stresses. The information holds significant value for effective pre-breeding, management, and utilization in crop improvement initiatives, in addition to augmenting the genetic potential of the crop. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New age challenges of irrational use of fertilizers under monocropping of rice calls for integrative nutrient management strategy along with establishment of rice based cropping system. A field study was carried out in 2017-18 and 2018-19 at Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, India to investigate the integrated nutrient management strategies on productivity, nutrient indices and soil nutrient status in short grain aromatic rice-green gram cropping system. The experiment was set up in split plot design with six nutrient management strategies in rice were taken in main plot in randomized block design and three nutrient management strategies in green gram were taken as sub plot in split-plot design in sequence. Results revealed that application of 50% NPKþ 50% Recommended Dose of Nitrogen (RDN)-FYM to rice followed by 75% NPKþRhizobiumþPhosphorus Solubilizing Bacteria to green gram recorded the highest rice equivalent yield and production efficiency in 2017-18 and 2018-19 followed by 50% NPKþ 50% RDN-FYM to rice followed by 100% NPK to green gram. Application of 50% NPKþ 50% RDNFYM to rice and 75% NPKþRhizobiumþPSB to green gram recorded the highest partial factor productivity of nitrogen, nitrogen utilization efficiency and nitrogen uptake efficiency in the system. Soil nutrient status of the cropping system improved with balanced application of organic and inorganic sources of nutrients compared to mineral fertilizers only. Thus, supplementing FYM and sesbania as organic manures along with reduced dose of inorganic fertilizers improved sustainability of rice-green gram system along with improving soil fertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Job's tears (Coix lacryma-jobi L.) is a carbohydrate source functional food crop that can be developed as a substitute for rice. This study aims to determine the best application frequency of phosphate (P) fertilizer and paclobutrazol for supporting the growth and yield of job's tears in both rainy and dry seasons. The research was conducted from November 2021 - November 2022 at the Ciparanje research station and Laboratory Centre Universitas Padjadjaran, Jatinangor, Sumedang. The experiment used a randomized block design (RBD) consisting of P fertilizer application frequency (once, twice, and thrice) and paclobutrazol application frequency (once, twice, and thrice) and three replications.. The best season was determined using the T-test. The results showed that there was no interaction between growth components and job's tears yield in both rainy and dry season planting. P fertilizer application had a significant effect on lateral branch per tiller in the rainy season and root-shoot ratio in the dry season. Paclobutrazol application had a significant effect on the number of tillers per plant and number of seeds per plant in the rainy season, and the lateral branch per tiller in the dry season. Planting in the rainy season had the best growth and yield components compared to the dry season. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]