Non-standard errors

In statistics, samples are drawn from a population in a data-generating process (DGP). Standard errors measure the uncertainty in estimates of population parameters. In science, evidence is generated to test hypotheses in an evidence generating process (EGP). We claim that EGP variation across researchers adds uncertainty: Non-standard errors (NSEs). We study NSEs by letting 164 teams test the same hypotheses on the same data. NSEs turn out to be sizable, but smaller for better reproducible or higher rated research. Adding peer-review stages reduces NSEs. We further find that this type of uncertainty is underestimated by participants

Study of pomological traits and physico-chemical quality of pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) genotypes grown in Italy

Pomegranate is considered a functional food but several local accessions and cultivars are widespread in different countries. The characterization of local germoplasm allows to identify genotypes that possess the highest nutraceutical value compared to standard cultivars (cvs.) and that are well-adapted to local climatic conditions and could be used in the breeding programs. The aim of this study was the characterization of pomological and physico-chemical traits as well as antioxidant system in local pomegranate accessions (‘Mondrone Dolce’, ‘San Pietro’, ‘Granato’ and ‘Roce’), comparing to an Italian (‘Dente di Cavallo’) and international cvs. (‘Wonderful’). A high variability of the pomological traits resulted among the cultivars. ‘Wonderful’ showed the highest value of anthocyanins (554.99 ± 0.05 mg C3gE L−1), total phenols (1494.00 ± 116.20 mg GAE L−1) and antioxidant activity (EC50values 21.21 ± 0.05 µL mL−1), whereas ‘Granato’ had the highest values among local accessions. Furthermore, the antioxidant enzymes activities varied with genotypes. Principal component analysis revealed great differences in all investigated parameters among pomegranate genotypes. ‘Mondrone Dolce’, ‘San Pietro’ and ‘Dente di Cavallo’ showed similar pomological and nutraceutical traits compared to ‘Granato’ and ‘Roce’. Conversely, ‘Wonderful’, due to its peculiar traits, revealed significant differences with respect to other genotypes