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Scientia Agricola, Volume: 81, Publicado: 2024
  • Treated cattle wastewater affects the growth, quality and water productivity of Dalbergia nigra seedlings produced with shading and irrigation levels Agricultural Engineering

    Silva, Laiz de Oliveira; Mendonça, Henrique Vieira; Conforto, Bruno Antônio Augusto Faria; Leles, Paulo Sergio dos Santos; Carvalho, Daniel Fonseca de

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT The continuous demand for water in the agricultural sector has encouraged researchers worldwide to find alternatives to optimize this resource. The use of wastewater in irrigation is promising in this scenario, especially to produce tree seedlings. The growth, quality, and water productivity of Dalbergia nigra seedlings cultivated with sewage sludge were determined when irrigated with urban supply water (W1) and cattle wastewater (CWW) treated for 1 h (W2) and 2 h (W3) of ozonation, considering four irrigation depths and shading levels (0 % (C1), 37.6 % (C2), 49.4 % (C3), 75.8 % (C4)). The height, stem diameter, biomass, and the Dickson Quality Index (DQI) were evaluated. The largest volumes of water applied in each experiment were 2.342 L per plant in W2C1, 2.114 L per plant in W1C3 and 1.556 L per plant in W3C1. The CWW provided satisfactory seedling growth, especially W2, highlighting a DQI of 0.47 obtained in C1 and better water productivity (3.8 g L–1) in W2C1, with full depth. Using alternative inputs in the seedling production of tree species is a promising strategy and indicates benefits for waste disposal, such as sewage sludge and wastewater.
  • Water rights in sugarcane irrigation: influence of irrigation criteria and probability levels adopted for ETo and rainfall Agricultural Engineering

    Maschio, Rafael; Coelho, Rubens Duarte; Barros, Timóteo Herculino da Silva; Costa, Jéfferson de Oliveira; Duarte, Sergio Nascimento

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT Sugarcane irrigation is one of the main technologies to increase productivity and profitability in the sugar-energy sector. However, to improve the management of water resources in Brazil, growers need to obtain a water rights permitfrom regulatory agencies. The calculation of water rights is determined from data based on estimates of rainfall and reference evapotranspiration (ETo) provided by the Agência Nacional de Águas e Saneamento Básico (ANA). The primary hypothesis of this study was that the method proposed by ANA to calculate water rights did not provide operational security since it lacked an adequate probabilistic character. As a corollary, we included a secondary hypothesis stating that determining flows through the simplified FAO method proposed in the CROPWAT 8.0 manual displayed vulnerability due to the criteria to choose the representative years. This research aimed to compare such methodologies with a more detailed case study (standard method), taking into account the temporal variability of these estimates, the irrigation criteria, and the probability of occurrence of ETo and rainfall to determine water rights for sugarcane irrigation. During the period between Apr and Sept (dry period), the calculation method proposed by ANA met the needs of the project. However, when rainfall was concentrated (Oct to Mar), the calculation method tended to underestimate the monthly values of available flows. The simplified method proposed by FAO and the alternative method proposed here approached ideal conditions.
  • Estimation of soybean crop water deficit sensitivity index Agricultural Engineering

    Farias, Diego Bispo dos Santos; Rodrigues, Lineu Neiva; Aleman, Catariny Cabral; Cecon, Paulo Roberto

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT Brazil is the world’s largest soybean exporter. Over half of the cultivated area is in the Brazilian Savanna (Cerrado) region, where soybean is typically grown under rainfed conditions. However, soybeans have been cultivated in irrigated systems, further increasing water demand in the region, which already faces water problems. Therefore, it is crucial to generate technical information to support the management of water resources in irrigated soybean crops. This study aimed to estimate the water deficit sensitivity index of soybean crops. Two field experiments were carried out in randomized blocks with four treatments and four replicates from May to Aug 2019 and 2021. Three treatments with irrigation suspension were applied in three different phenological stages: vegetative, reproductive, and seed filling, and a fully irrigated control plot to meet the total plant demand. The results showed 40 % and 34 % reductions in soybean seed yield when water deficit was applied in stages R1-R5 and R5-R7, respectively, compared to the control treatment. There was a linear correlation with r2 values equal to 0.98, 0.97, and 0.99 for the relationships between seed yield and applied irrigation, seed yield and actual evapotranspiration (ETa), and ETa and irrigation, respectively. The yield response factors were equal to 0.12, 0.36, and 0.57 for the stages V2-R1, R1-R5, and R5-R7, respectively. The yield response factor for the soybean cycle was equal to 1.16.
  • Improved detection of planting failures by computer vision Agricultural Engineering

    Oliveira, Willer Fagundes de; Vieira, Antonio Wilson; Santos, Silvânio Rodrigues dos; Pimenta, Samy; Silva, Lucas Alves da

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT The management of natural and planted forests can be conducted sustainably by implementing techniques that consider the spatial and temporal variability of the plant and soil. In this context, precision silviculture through remote sensing can play a vital role, mainly when using Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) equipped with specific sensors. In the present study, an automated computational routine (based on computer vision techniques) was developed and validated to perform forest inventory in commercial Eucalyptus grandis forests, using an orthophoto mosaic obtained with an RGB sensor built-in to a UAV. The developed routine employs computer vision techniques, including template matching to locate plants, Delaunay triangulation to create a mesh and indicate the predominant orientations of the planting rows, and an adaptation of the Hough transform to estimate the analytical parameters of each row. These parameters are refined using linear regression to generate the lines best fitting the input data. Finally, the failure segments on each row are identified by detecting the plants in each row. A simulation of regular point distribution on the segment is then used to identify the planting failure. This process allows the geolocation of each failure point for replanting to be quantified. The routine has significant potential in the forest inventory, allowing the geolocation of failures with an overall accuracy of 0.97 and 0.99, respectively, and a maximum positional error of 0.15 m and 0.20 m, respectively.
  • Bacterial community in biological soil crusts from a Brazilian semiarid region under desertification process Agricultural Microbiology

    Pinheiro, José Israel; Mendes Filho, Paulo Furtado; Garcia, Kaio Gráculo Vieira; Moreira, Jarlane Viana; Silva, Danilo Ferreira da; Araújo, Ademir Sérgio Ferreira de; Verma, Jay Prakash; Melo, Vania Maria Maciel; Pereira, Arthur Prudêncio de Araujo

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT Biological soil crusts (BSC) are commonly found in soils in the drylands regions, which can influence stabilization, water retention, nutrient cycling (particularly carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) dynamics), and several ecological processes. However, the composition of BSC in Brazilian soils undergoing the desertification process remains poorly understood. This study aimed to characterize the bacterial community in BSC formed in a Brazilian semiarid region under the desertification process. Thus, a highly desertified region was selected from which 34 BSC samples were collected. The total DNA of the BSC was extracted from 0.5 g samples, and the bacterial community was sequenced by a Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) platform (Miseq – Illumina®) using universal primers (515F and 806R). Bioinformatic analysis was carried out in QIIME (v.1.9), and the Operational Taxonomic Units (OTU) table was constructed following the Sumaclust methodology. The pH of BSC, C, N, and phosphorus contents was analyzed. Our study identified a diverse bacterial community in the BSCs. Cyanobacteria, Chloroflexi, and Proteobacteria phyla presented the greatest relative abundance (%) across the samples. Cyanobacteria were dominated by the orders Nostocales and Leptolyngbyales. The prediction of the putative functions found that mostf OTU were related to phototrophy, photosynthetic cyanobacteria, and photoautotrophy. The study found correlations between bacterial phyla and BSC properties, with Cyanobacteria positively related to C. Chloroflexi, Armatimonadetes, and WPS-2 were negatively correlated with C and N contents. These results suggest the critical roles bacteria communities play in BSCs from the Caatinga biome and highlight the potential impact of environmental factors on their diversity and functions.
  • Olivine melilitite powder applied in association with bacterial inoculation impacts soil microbiological attributes Agricultural Microbiology

    Galina, Jardel; Ribeiro, Genicelli Mafra; Baretta, Dilmar; Baretta, Carolina Riviera Duarte Maluche

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT This study aimed to evaluate the impact of the combination of olivine melilitite powder with bacterial inoculation on soil microbiological attributes. The experiment was conducted in a randomized block design (n = 4), with the following treatments: chemical fertilizer (CF), fertilizer reduction + remineralizer (FRR), fertilizer reduction + remineralizer + Azospirillum (FRA), fertilizer reduction + remineralizer + Bacillus (FRB), and fertilizer reduction + remineralizer + co-inoculation of Azospirillum and Bacillus (FRC). A 25 % reduction of chemical fertilizer was tested in FRR, FRA, FRB, and FRC for two years. The microbial biomass carbon (MBC), soil basal respiration (SBR), microbial quotient (qMIC), metabolic quotient (qCO 2 ), and grain yield (GY) of maize were evaluated. The results indicated that the soil from treatments FRA (515.72 mg microbial C (carbon) and 2.28 %), FRB (547.43 mg microbial C and 2.65 %), and FRC (529.64 mg microbial C and 2.38 %) exhibited the greater values of MBC and qMIC. The highest qCO 2 values were found in the soil of FRR (5.55 µg C-CO 2 µg MBC) and CF (5.84 µg C-CO 2 µg MBC), indicating stress effects on the microbial community. However, following the first cultivation, this effect was reduced in FRR due to the application of olivine melilitite. Moreover, MBC (R 2 = 0.46), qMIC (R 2 = 0.35), and SBR (R 2 = 0.79) exhibited a positive correlation with maize GY, while qCO 2 (R 2 = –0.33) presented a negative correlation with GY. This suggests that bacterial inoculation associated with olivine melilitite may have influenced the results. In conclusion, the application of olivine melilitite and inoculation with beneficial bacteria has been demonstrated to enhance soil microbiological attributes and maize yield.
  • Physio-edaphoclimatic factors show optimal soil suitability for three tropical crops in the Ecuadorian Amazon Agrometeorology

    Vizuete-Montero, Marco Omar; Figueroa-Saavedra, Hilter Farley; Barbaru-Grajales, Asterio Denis; Zapata-Mayorga, Holger Alfredo; Herrera-Ocaña, Héctor Ramiro; Moya, Wladimir

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT Favorable soil conditions are essential to the proper growth and production of any crop worldwide. Only 9 % of the Ecuadorian Amazon Region (EAR) territory is suitable for agriculture and/or livestock farming, due to limitations imposed by physio-edaphoclimatic factors. This study evaluated the soil potential suitability for coffee, cocoa and tropical pastures to determine optimal, moderate and marginal areas in three provinces in the EAR (Orellana, Sucumbios and Pastaza) under different agroecological conditions. On-site field work was carried out to analyze the soil profile to determine the mineral composition. Eight environmental variables were evaluated through the integration of GIS-based modeling to determine the agroecological zoning of the crops. The results showed that the main determining factors for optimal areas of soil suitability within the three provinces included soil depth (30 cm), organic matter content (5.3 %), concentration of macronutrients (2,700 mg kg–1), and slope (< 10 %), whereas annual temperature (18-26 °C), annual precipitation (1200-3000 mm), altitude (0-500 m), and pH (4.38) were included for moderate and marginal areas. Depending on the crop and the province, soil suitability was classified into two or three classes (optimal, moderate, and marginal areas), relying on the agroecological conditions specific to each crop. This study highlights that all crops showed mostly optimal soil suitability for proper development under the agroecological conditions analyzed, which contributes to the provision of valuable information to decision-makers about key limiting factors, land-use planning and mapping soil suitability when considering the best location for a specific crop.
  • Differences between ecological niche models when predicting the potential distribution of soybean Agrometeorology

    Gong, Lijuan; Li, Xiufen; Liu, Dan; Jiang, Lixia; Jiang, Lanqi; Li, Yuguang

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT Against the background of a sharp decline in soybean planting, rising imports, and natural disasters in China, finding appropriate distribution areas for soybean has become a matter of urgency so that soybean planting policies can be formulated and soybean food security ensured. Among the numerous ecological niche models, the most suitable one for predicting potential distribution areas of soybean in the frigid region must be identified. Based on 65 soybean occurrence points and nine environmental variables, three ecological niche models, MaxEnt, BIOCLIM, and DOMAIN, were applied to the prediction of potential distribution areas for soybean. According to the analytical comparison, the three models predicted the potential distribution of soybean and, specifically, MaxEnt, stood out above the other two models as regards predicting the soybean distribution (Receiver Operating Characteristic curve, AUC = 0.916, Kappa = 0.685). The potential distribution areas (from low suitability to high suitability) predicted by MaxEnt was the largest and accounted for 59.5 % of the total area. The potential suitable distribution area of soybean was mainly concentrated in relatively flat terrain. The Sanjiang Plain and the Northeast Plain accounted for 9.4 % of the total area in the frigid region and are highly suitability for soybean. At the same time, annual mean temperature, elevation and Apr solar radiation were the key determinants affecting soybeans’ habitat. On the whole, the selection of ecological niche models and the prediction of soybean potential distribution can provide an essential reference for soybean planting and planning. Moreover, it would be a reliable example for the subsequent related research on soybean habitats.
  • Exploring avenues for tropical soybean intensification: how much water and nutrients are demanded to achieve exploitable yield? Agrometeorology

    Silva, Evandro Henrique Figueiredo Moura da; Vieira Junior, Nilson Aparecido; Fattori Junior, Izael Martins; Marin, Fabio Ricardo

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT The world population is expected to rise by two billion in a few decades, boosting demand for soybean (Glycine max L.). Brazil has the world’s largest tropical agricultural area, accounting for 40 % of the world’s soybean output. This study was conducted to understand the potential and limitations of tropical soybean yield, estimate the amounts of main inputs (water and nutrients), and assess management to reach the crop yield potential (YP). We used CROPGRO-Soybean model, based on well-conducted experiments in different locations in Brazil. We generated estimates of YP and water-limited crop yield potential (YP-W), and explored long-term scenarios to evaluate the impact of sustainable practices on water management. Yield gap (YG) and agricultural efficiency (EA) were computed based on simulations and actual yield. The total water and nutrients required to achieve the YP in Brazil were also calculated. According to our simulations, YP ranged from 3,952 to 6,084 kg ha–1; YP-W from 3,133 to 5,186 kg ha–1, and YG from 589 to 4,401 kg ha–1. On average, drought stress negatively affected 14 % of YP, while 42 % of YP was lost due to management failures. Irrigation was needed in 26 % of the soybean-planted areas in Brazil to mitigate the risks associated to seasonal rainfall variations. Our findings revealed that it was possible to save around 20 % of the water through conservative soil practices and 25.0 106 Mg of macronutrients (N = 356 kg ha–1, P = 31 kg ha–1, K = 104 kg ha–1) annually is required to reach the exploitable soybean yield.
  • Decision trees as a tool for selecting sows in commercial herds Animal Science And Pastures

    Hilgemberg, João Otávio; Andretta, Ines; Mariani, Alexandre Bonadiman; Neimaier, Alisson; Valk, Marcio; Bittarello, Fernando; Hilgemberg, Rafaela; Lehnen, Cheila Roberta

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT This study aimed to evaluate the use of decision trees to select sows based on the production parameters of parity order (PO) 1 sows from a commercial herd. Data were collected at a piglet production unit with a capacity of housing 5,500 sows in collective pens. Piglet production and sow culling information was collected from PO1 and PO2 sows. The period from January 2017 to March 2020 was analyzed. The correlation analysis was used to identify the influence of the production parameters on sow culling after exploring the database using the graphical analysis and descriptive statistics. The ANOVA was applied to evaluate differences in the response variables between culled and unculled sows. Two models were proposed using the decision tree method: model 1 referred to sow culling, and model 2 comprised the total number of liveborn piglets (TBA). The calculated value was close to 0, although the correlations of the production parameters with culling were statistically significant. The mean number of weaned piglets was higher for unculled sows in PO1 (p < 0.05). The number of weaned piglets, total number of liveborn piglets, and weaning-service interval did not differ in the unculled and culled sows in PO2 (p > 0.05). Using a confusion matrix as a metric tool, the decision tree method used in this study provided consistent results for this database, indicating its possible use for decision-making in sow selection.
  • Evaluation of sugarcane rind on the nutritional value of ruminant feeding Animal Science And Pastures

    Moura, Raiany Resende; Camilo, Michele Gabriel; Processi, Elizabeth Fônseca; Fernandes, Alberto Magno; Silva, Ismael Nacarati da; Aniceto, Elon Souza; Oliveira, Tadeu Silva de

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT Several studies on the kinetics of sugarcane’s fiber digestion have been published, but, to date, no study has evaluated the influence of sugarcane rind on the digestion of fresh sugarcane by ruminants. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of sugarcane components (rind and pith) on chemical composition, in vitro digestibility, metabolizable energy, and sugarcane quality. A randomized block design was used in a split-plot scheme with five sugarcane genotypes [plot] (RB068027, RB058046, RB987917, RB867515, and RB855536) and three sugarcane components [sub-plot] (rind, pith, and whole cane), Each treatment consisted of four replicates. The chemical composition, in vitro gas production, in vitro digestibility, metabolizable energy, and sugarcane quality were evaluated. No interaction between components and genotypes was observed for the variables analyzed herein. Although the rind had a higher crude protein content, it showed a large amount of insoluble crude protein. The rind had higher fibrous fractions, comprising 87.33 % of the indigestible fraction of the neutral detergent fiber (NDF). The sugarcane rind showed ~ 71.20 % more lignin than the pith tissue. Further, the rind decreased by 6.5 % in vitro dry matter digestibility compared to the whole sugarcane. The in vitro NDF digestibility of the rind was 18.38 % lower than the whole sugarcane. The RB068027 genotype showed the lowest sugarcane quality. Despite the higher content of potentially digestible neutral detergent fiber (pdNDF) in the rind, its high lignin content influences the quality of the final fibrous fractions of sugarcane and negatively impacts the nutritional value. The genotypes do not differ nutritionally, but RB855536 presented higher biomass and energy yields.
  • Blend of cinnamaldehyde and diallyl disulfide associated or not to antibiotics on ruminal fermentation, cortisol and blood metabolites of feedlot steers fed no-forage diet Animal Science And Pastures

    Mota, Lucas Gimenes; Fonseca, Alessandra Schaphauser Rosseto; Andrade, Thiago Sérgio de; Duff, Glenn; Galati, Rosemary Laís; Cabral, Luciano da Silva

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of an essential oil blend (EO), based on cinnamaldehyde and diallyl disulfide, associated or not with antibiotics on intake and nutrient digestibility, ingestive behavior, rumen fermentation, ruminal microbial synthesis, and blood metabolites of feedlot cattle fed a no-forage diet. The study was carried out as a Latin Square with five treatments consisting of a blend of essential oil (EO), monensin (MON) and virginiamycin (VM), both separately and combined as follows: CON (monensin at 30 mg kg–1 DM), VM (virginiamycin at 25 mg kg–1 DM and monensin at 30 mg kg–1 DM), MEO25 (monensin at 30 mg kg–1 DM and EO at 25 mg kg–1 DM), MEO35 (monensin at 30 mg kg–1 DM and EO at 35 mg kg–1 DM) and EO35 (blend of EO at 35 mg kg–1 DM). There were no effects from additives and their combinations on the intake and apparent digestibility of nutrients or ingestive behavior. Furthermore, treatments did not modify the ruminal pH, nor the concentration of short-chain fatty acids and ammonia, nor the microbial protein synthesis. Blood glucose concentration was higher 4 h after morning feeding for all treatments. There was a significant contrast between the VM and EO for the blood concentration of D-Lactate and L-Lactate. There was no difference between the additives in the concentration of cortisol metabolites in the feces. The blend of essential oil studied, containing cinnamaldehyde and diallyl disulfide, associated or not with antibiotics, does not change the nutritional parameters nor the metabolism of feedlot cattle fed a no-forage diet.
  • Quality control of semen processing in boar studs: A Brazilian scenario Animal Science And Pastures

    Rocha, Janaina Colecha; Rosa, Emanoelle Regina; Quirino, Monike; Marques, Mariana Groke; Bennemann, Paulo Eduardo; Coldebella, Arlei; Rauber, Lucio Pereira; Schwegler, Elizabeth; Moreira, Fabiana; Peripolli, Vanessa; Lucia Junior, Thomaz; Bianchi, Ivan

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT Artificial insemination success in swine is mainly associated with semen dose quality. Thus, this study compared quality control parameters in 11 Brazilian boar studs after applying audit services for 24 months (1,650 boars). An extensive checklist was applied in each audit, registering ‘compliance’ or ‘noncompliance’ for 75 items. Semen doses produced were analyzed as regards volume and sperm concentration, and microbiological analyses were conducted for semen and water samples collected at distinct production stages. On average, boar studs produced 112.9 semen doses per boar per month, and the odds of raw semen contamination increased when boars were inadequately housed and doses were collected under increased temperatures, with no anti-slip rubber mat or after a poor prepuce cleaning (p < 0.05). Collection from boars with locomotor problems and no regular change of reverse osmosis filters increased the contamination odds in semen doses produced and stored at the stud (p < 0.05). As regards the water submitted to the osmosis reverse process, contamination odds increased as a result of deficient cleaning and disinfection of the purification equipment (p < 0.05). Risk factors for reduced sperm motility (< 70 %) were: no anti-slip rubber mat for semen collection, no cleaning program for automatic feeding system (drops) and bins, and inadequate intervals between semen collections (≤ 2 days or > 7 days; p < 0.05). Two boar studs had the best results for compliance with the checklist items. Constant monitoring, appropriate hygiene of facilities and equipment, and periodical staff training are highlighted as non-negotiable points for boar semen dose quality.
  • Evaluation of sweet orange essential oil on fermentation and aerobic stability of corn silage Animal Science And Pastures

    Silva, Ismael Nacarati da; Oliveira, Tadeu Silva de; Aniceto, Elon Souza; Meirelles Júnior, José Ribeiro; Mozelli Filho, Elvanio José Lopes; Fernandes, Alberto Magno; Souza Filho, Gonçalo Apolinário; Gressley, Tanya

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT Corn silage is susceptible to losses through aerobic spoilage. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate increasing sweet orange essential oil levels in chemical composition, in vitro degradability, losses, fermentation parameters, microbial count, and the aerobic stability of corn silage. The experiment was carried out in a completely randomized design with four treatment levels: Control (CON), ensiling corn without sweet orange essential oil; 200 mg kg–1,400 mg kg–1, and 600 mg kg–1 of ensiling mass with four replicates per treatment. Sweet orange essential oil affected both the dry matter (p = 0.035) and the organic matter (p = 0.021), presenting quadratic behavior. Sweet orange essential oil did not affect (p ≥ 0.05) in vitro dry matter degradability, in vitro neutral detergent fiber degradability, or gross energy. Sweet orange essential oil had a quadratic effect (p = 0.022) on the acetic acid concentration in corn silage. There was a tendency (p = 0.097) for sweet orange essential oil to reduce the ammoniacal nitrogen linearly. The levels of sweet orange essential oil did not influence losses by gases or effluents (p ≥ 0.05). We observed no effect of sweet orange essential oil on Lactic acid-producing bacteria populations or fungi (p ≥ 0.05). Furthermore, increasing sweet orange essential oil levels decreased temperature (p = 0.02) over time but did not influence pH (p = 0.404). Sweet orange essential oil does not affect in vitro degradability, fermentation parameters, nor microbial count in corn silage. However, the 600 mg of ensiling mass increases corn silage’s acetic acid concentration and aerobic stability.
  • Productive, biochemical, behavioral, and feeding parameters of Holstein cows treated with two formulations of recombinant bovine somatotropin Animal Science And Pastures

    Araújo, Maria Carolina Narval de; Teixeira, Ritieli dos Santos; Duarte, Letícia Alves Martins; Barbosa, Antônio Amaral; Del Pino, Francisco Augusto Burkert; Almeida, Rodrigo de; Corrêa, Marcio Nunes

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT This work aimed to compare the efficiency of two commercial recombinant bovine somatotropin (rbST) formulations on productive, metabolic, behavioral, and feeding parameters of mid-lactation Holstein cows. Eighteen secondiparous cows were randomly assigned to two groups to be treated with injectable rbST (rbST-Fast, Boostin ® , MSD Saúde Animal; and rbST-Slow, Lactotropin ® , Agener União Saúde Animal). Cows were rbST-treated during five cycles of 14 days each, totaling 70 days. Blood samples were collected thrice in each cycle to assess metabolic markers. Daily, automatic feeders and individual monitoring collars measured behavior and feed intake. Milk samples were collected weekly to evaluate milk composition and somatic cell count. The rbST-Fast group had higher milk production ( p = 0.03) and tended to present greater feed intake ( p = 0.07). In addition, animals treated with rbST-Fast had higher ( p < 0.01) concentrations of non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) and tended ( p = 0.09) to have lower serum glucose values. As for the variation in body weight, cows treated with rbST-Fast lost approximately three times more weight ( p < 0.01) than rbST-Slow cows. Regarding milk components, cows from the rbST-Fast group produced milk with a higher lactose content ( p = 0.05). In conclusion, rbST-Fast treated cows produced more milk, had higher feed intake, and showed a higher degree of lipid mobilization, demonstrated through the higher body weight loss and higher NEFA concentrations.
  • Formulation strategy to reach a balance among dietary essential amino acids for Nile tilapia juveniles Animal Science And Pastures

    Romaneli, Rafael de Souza; Silva, Maria Fernanda Oliveira da; Masagounder, Karthik; Fernandes, João Batista Kochenborger; Fracalossi, Débora Machado

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT Diets with high protein levels but unbalanced amino acid (AA) profiles can lead to poor AA utilization, increasing nitrogenous compound excretion and feed costs. Our study aimed to develop a formulation strategy to maintain a balanced dietary AA profile with a low protein level for Nile tilapia juveniles without compromising growth. Fish (6.75 ± 0.07 g) were fed on one of four isoenergetic diets with varied protein concentrations and AA profiles twice daily to apparent satiation for 41 days. The trial included four dietary treatments containing either 321 (32HighLys and 32LowLys) or 292 and 222 g protein kg –1 (29BAL and 22BAL, respectively) with five replicates per diet, making a total of 20 experimental units in a completed randomized design. The growth of fish fed the 29BAL diet was not compromised; weight gain (WG) and thermal growth coefficients were similar to those fed the 32HighLys and 32LowLys diets. However, the protein gain of those fish fed the 32HighLys diet was significantly higher than that of those fed the other diets. The 22BAL diet promoted the lowest growth, and its higher protein-energy ratio led to increased body lipid content. Therefore, the formulation strategy to supply balanced dietary AA to Nile tilapia reduced digestible protein from 32 to 29 %, without compromising fish growth and allowing a 12 % decrease in the excretion of nitrogenous waste.
  • Bayesian inference applied to soybean grown under different shading levels using the multiple-trait model Biometry, Modeling And Statistics

    Silva Júnior, Antônio Carlos da; Costa, Weverton Gomes da; Guimarães, Amanda Gonçalves; Moura, Waldênia de Melo; Campos, Leonardo José Motta; Rodrigues, Reimário de Castro; Bhering, Leonardo Lopes; Cruz, Cosme Damião; Evaristo, Anderson Barbosa

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT present study aimed to determine the effects of different light restriction levels (shading levels) on soybean genetic parameters using a Bayesian multi-trait model (MTM) and select high-yielding soybean cultivars. Eighteen commercial soybean cultivars bred in a soybean breeding program were evaluated over two agricultural seasons. Three shading levels were used over two agricultural crop seasons, giving six treatments (light restriction × crop season). The experiments were arranged in a randomized complete block design with six treatments replicated thrice. The genetic values and parameters were estimated using a Monte Carlo Markov Chain algorithm. Broad-sense heritability range from 0.2093 to 0.7153. The lowest genotypic variance estimate was observed at the 45 % photosynthetically active radiation level in the 2019/2020 crop season year compared with that of other shading levels. Furthermore, a 40 % selection intensity had the highest soybean yield under different shading levels. The Bayesian MTM combined with the factor analysis and genotype-ideotype distance method can be used to evaluate and select soybean genotypes considering different shading levels. The soybean cultivars 8579RSF, NS8338, NS7901, NS7667, RK8115, and 8473RSF had higher genetic potential than other cultivars under different shading levels.
  • Bayesian sequential estimation of the proportion of damage in maize seeds Biometry, Modeling And Statistics

    Lima, Isabela da Silva; Brighenti, Carla Regina Guimarães; Pires, Raquel Maria de Oliveira

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT Sampling is an essential step in estimating a parameter: thus, cost and time associated to this step should be minimized. Sequential sampling is characterized by using samples of variable sizes given as a function of observations, and sequential sampling provides a smaller sample size than a fixed-size sample in most cases. In addition, the Bayesian decision theory can be incorporated into sequential sampling to perform parameter estimation because it allows the inclusion of a priori information about the parameter of interest, which optimizes the procedure. However, the great challenge to performing the Bayesian sequential estimation in establishing the stopping criteria. Most studies in this area investigate binomial distributions, while few analyze multinomial distributions. This study aimed to define the stopping criteria for the Bayesian sequential estimation of the parameters of multinomial distributions with conjugate Dirichlet priors. The proposed methodology was applied to a set of X-ray test data for quality control of maize seed lots. This test uses conventional sampling techniques in which a sample has a fixed size with 200 seeds. The influence of two priors on the stopping criteria was evaluated, one uniform and one conjugate, with hyperparameters based on reference information from the literature. The results indicated a reduction in the sample size in most lots evaluated.
  • Growth of tomato seedlings: an approach with the logistic model as a function of the product of thermal efficiency and photosynthetically active radiation Biometry, Modeling And Statistics

    Diel, Maria Inês; Lúcio, Alessandro Dal’Col; Tartaglia, Francieli de Lima; Sgarbossa, Jaqueline; Tischler, André Luís; Lambrecht, Darlei Michalski; Zemolin, João Alberto; Marques, Lucas Encarnação

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT This study aimed to evaluate the use of the product of thermal efficiency and photosynthetically active radiation (TEP) to model the growth of tomato seedlings across different growing seasons. The work was conducted in a completely randomized design with four replicates in two seasons (summer/autumn and winter/spring). Height, diameter, the Dickson’s Quality Index (DQI), and total plant mass (TPM) were measured at 15, 20, 25, 30, 35 and 40 days after sowing (DAS). The logistic model was fitted for each measured variable as a function of TEP, and the partial derivatives of the fitted function estimated the critical points. The results demonstrated that the logistic function effectively explained the nonlinear relationships of seedling growth. The fit quality parameters showed high fitted coefficients of determination and low values for the standard error of fit, residual standard deviation, and intrinsic and parametric nonlinearity. It was possible to characterize the growth process of tomato seedlings in both growth periods investigated. The logistic model fitted for the studied variables as a function of TEP becomes an accurate model capable of describing growth aspects of tomato seedlings, such as growth estimation, growth speed, and growth rate, essential parameters for decision-making in tomato cultivation.
  • Assessment of final body weight and feed conversion ratio in batches of growing pigs with statistical modeling Biometry, Modeling And Statistics

    Oliveira, Anderson Luís Garla; Oliveira, Newton Tavares Escocard de; Carvalho, Paulo Levi de Oliveira; Carvalho, Silvana Teixeira; Schultz, Érica Beatriz; Genova, Jansller Luiz

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT This study was conducted to assess prediction models for production indexes in batches of growing pigs using performance regressors (period of the year and farm size). A database containing 663 records on the performance of pig batches (18.83 ± 4.37 to 111.26 ± 10.59 kg body weight (BW) at housing and finisher, respectively) from a private company was used to assess the following average animal characteristics: initial number of animals (INA), initial BW (IBW), initial age (IA), final BW (FBW), final age (FA), daily feed intake (DFI) and feed conversion ratio (FCR). Data were categorized by period (P) of the year (P1 = Nov to Apr and P2 = May to Oct), and farm size (FS): 0 ≤ INA ≤ 1,000, FS1; 1,001 ≤ INA ≤ 2,000, FS2; 2,001 ≤ INA ≤ 3,000, FS3; and INA > 3,000, FS4. The analysis resulted in representing 58 % of the variance of FCR data. The INA impaired FCR, and having larger pig batches improves FCR and profitability. The FBW prediction errors ranged from 2.47 to 3.38 %. Feed conversion ratio prediction errors ranged from 3.27 to 4.47 %. Based on the joint criteria of non-bias and accuracy, the models for predicting the FBW of growing pig batches have practical value in animal science on account of their accuracy. In addition, increasing the initial number of housed pigs in batches affects the FCR regardless of the period of the year.
  • Best linear unbiased prediction in combination with path analysis in processing grapes Crop Science

    Rodrigues, Cinthia Souza; Moura, Mara Fernandes; Oliveira, Geovani Luciano de; Silva, Marlon Jocimar Rodrigues da; Tecchio, Marco Antonio

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT The knowledge of correlations between multiple characteristics in plant breeding leads to more effective selection strategies. The path analysis allows refining these correlations and partitioning them into direct and indirect effects on the main variable. The path analysis becomes more effective when based on predicted genotypic values rather than phenotypic values. The objective was to evaluate correlations between the main agronomic characteristics of grapevine cultivation and their direct and indirect effects on yield per plant to improve selection strategies to reach superior progenies. A randomized complete block design was installed using four cultivars and two rootstocks, five repetitions, and plots of four plants. Data from three crop seasons were analyzed from a mixed model and genetic correlations were subject to the path analysis. A high and positive significant correlation was found between average fruit production and the number of clusters per plant. On the other hand, the average production per plant showed a low correlation to cluster width and height per grapevine. Wider and higher berries tend to increase berry fresh mass and therefore increase the contents of soluble solids and reducing sugars. Among the features, the number of clusters per plant has the strongest direct effect on fruit production in grape cultivars. Berry fresh mass, berry length, and berry width were indirectly influenced by the number of clusters and showed high heritability compared to yield and number of clusters. These characteristics could be used in indirect selection.
  • Decomposition, biochemical composition and nutrient cycling of macauba palm in a Cerrado Entisol Crop Science

    Carvalho, Arminda Moreira de; Quintana, Luciane Gomes; Souza, Anderson Marcos de; Coser, Thais Rodrigues; Sousa, Thais Rodrigues de; Oliveira, Alexsandra Duarte de; Ramos, Maria Lucrecia Gerosa

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT Leaf litter decomposition and the release of nutrients from macauba palm leaves play a major role in nutrient return to the soil in a conservation environment. This study evaluated macauba palm leaf decomposition, macronutrient contents and biochemical composition under contrasting water conditions in the Brazilian Cerrado. Macauba leaves were collected from plants in two different environments (low and high water table conditions), placed in litter bags and evaluated according to their decomposition, macronutrients, lignin, cellulose and hemicellulose for 420 days. In addition, green and dry leaves were collected for macronutrient analyses. Litter decomposition ranged between 49 % and 59 % up to 180 days. The half-life of litter ranged from 141 to 198 days. The leaf litter decomposition of macauba was practically stable during the dry season, whereas at the beginning of the rainy season, decomposition resumed. Nitrogen, P and S were higher in the green leaves, whereas the Ca levels were higher in the dry leaves. In addition, the K levels were twofold higher in the green leaves than in the dry leaves. Lignin release from macauba residues was slower than cellulose and hemicellulose. The decomposition rates of hemicellulose were higher initially due to its high solubility, although it gradually decreased with the decomposition process. Lignin decomposition was also higher at the beginning of the process but stabilized during the drought period. The study indicates that the decomposition process and nutrient cycling of macauba are influenced by its biochemical composition.
  • Production, quality, bioactive compounds, and phenology of raspberry cultivars under an organic cropping system in a subtropical region of Brazil Crop Science

    Fagundes, Cintia de Moraes; Biasi, Luiz Antonio; Tofanelli, Mauro Brasil Dias; Rodrigues, Ana Paula Santos; Franciscon, Vitor Guimarães; Siqueira, Aline de Fátima Cobachuk

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT Studies on the adaptability of raspberry cultivars to subtropical regions are needed since growth, yield, and fruit quality may differ from levels observed in temperate climates. This study evaluated the phenology, yield, physical-chemical attributes, and bioactive compounds of raspberries produced in a subtropical region of Brazil under an organic cropping system. The experiment was carried out in three production cycles 2018/2019, 2019/2020, and 2020/2021 in Pinhais, Paraná State, Brazil. We evaluated ten raspberry cultivars, eight primocanes (Alemãzinha, Autumn Bliss, Bababerry, Fallgold, Golden Bliss, Heritage, Indian Summer and Polana), and two floricane cultivars (Schoenmann and Willamette). Phenological evaluations were carried out weekly at the beginning and end of flowering and harvesting. The soluble solids content, titratable acidity, the pH, and bioactive compounds were analyzed. Primocane cultivars showed two flowering and fruiting periods, the first in spring/summer and the other in summer/autumn, except for the Indian Summer cultivar, which showed a floricane-fruiting behavior, bearing fruit only on one-year-old canes, like Schoenmann and Willamette cultivars. ‘Alemãzinha’ shows better adaptation to the region under study with higher yield and concentration of total polyphenols, but its fruits are small and acidic. ‘Heritage’ is also an option for cultivation in this region, even though it is less productive, as the fruits are larger, less acidic, and have high levels of bioactive compounds. Yellow cultivars Fallgold and Golden Bliss are good options for diversifying the color offer, with yields similar to ‘Heritage’ and with a high total soluble solids/titratable acidity ratio.
  • Peach tree growth in a tropical climate: shoot formation and fruiting Crop Science

    Penso, Gener Augusto; Serafini, Gabriel Antônio Dalapícula; Santos, Carlos Eduardo Magalhães dos; Picoli, Edgard Augusto Toledo; Citadin, Idemir; Lauri, Pierre-Éric

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT This study aimed to characterize the occurrence, duration, and intensity of the flushes of vegetative growth in two peach cultivars of Prunus persica L. Batsch, grown as a pioneer endeavor at a high-altitude tropical climate site in the State of Minas Gerais, Brazil. The observational experiment was carried out in 2017/18 and 2018/19 on the ‘Tropic Beauty’ and ‘BRS Kampai’ cultivars by an evaluation of the number and duration of flushes of vegetative growth during the year over two cycles. The number of fruit-bearing shoots, total number of leaves and shoot length were also assessed. At harvest, fruit load and diameter were determined and grouped into diameter ranges. The number of hours recorded at different temperature ranges, < 10.0 °C; 10.1-15.0 °C; 15.1-20.0 °C; 20.1-25.0 °C; > 25.1 °C, were summed separately and divided into daily and nightly periods. The peach tree has an unusual vegetative growth pattern when cultivated in a tropical area, which occurs in two flushes, with the first flush occurring from budbreak to fruit harvest between June and Sept, forming short shoots (less than 10 cm), with early shoot growth cessation, with a limited leaf number that can potentially diminish the supply of carbohydrates to the fruit, leading to smaller growth. The second flush occurs after harvest, between Oct and Dec, when there is an increase in daily temperature and precipitation, and no competition with fruits. Notabily, these second flush shoots grow with greater vigor and regularization of the growth cycle, forming fruit-bearing shoots with abundant leaf and flower buds for the next production cycle.
  • Radiographic and spectral images of rice seeds and the photosynthetic efficiency of seedlings Crop Science

    Silva, Artur Sousa; Cicero, Silvio Moure; Gomes Junior, Francisco Guilhien

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT The development and the use of new technologies in agriculture contribute to significant advances in research with practical applications in several fields, such as image analytical techniques, which are simple, fast, and objective analyses. This work aimed to evaluate rice seeds’ quality using X-ray, multispectral, and chlorophyll fluorescence image analytical techniques and relate this information with the photosynthetic efficiency of seedlings. Initially, the seeds were identified and enumerated, then X-ray images were obtained, and the void space (area between the endosperm + embryo and the glumes) was calculated. Next, the same seeds were used in the X-rays, multispectral, and chlorophyll fluorescence images. Afterward, the seeds were placed to germinate in polyethylene cups with a capacity of 250 mL, and evaluations of the photochemical yield of photosynthesis photosystem II (FSII) and of the seedling fluorescence chlorophyll were carried out seven, nine, and 11 days after the emergence of the seedlings. The reflectance of seeds in the spectral bands between 365 nm and 780 nm showed a positive correlation with the chlorophyll fluorescence. Furthermore, the higher photosynthetic efficiency of rice seedlings at 11 days after emergence is directly related to the reflectance of the seeds at spectral bands between 365 nm and 780 nm.
  • Decomposition of sorghum, grass, and sorghum intercropped with grass and soybean performance in integrated systems in the Cerrado Crop Science

    Sodré Filho, Joilson; Carvalho, Arminda Moreira de; Marchão, Robélio Leandro; Carmona, Ricardo

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT Previous cultivation of sorghum (Sorghum bicolor), Congo grass (Urochloa ruziziensis), and palisade grass (Urochloa brizantha cv. ‘Marandu’) may influence soybean (Glycine max) agronomic performance. The present work evaluated the decomposition of sorghum, grass, and sorghum intercropped with grass in the off-season to improve soybean yield in integrated crop systems in the Brazilian Cerrado and their dry matter production. This study was conducted in Planaltina, DF, in Central-West Brazil, on a Typical Acrustox soil from Mar 2010 until Feb 2012. The experimental design was a randomized block, with six crop systems before soybean: fallowing, sorghum, palisade grass (alone or intercropped with sorghum), and Congo grass (alone or intercropped with sorghum) with four replicates. Soybean agronomic performance, the crop systems’ dry mass, and its decomposition rate were estimated over two years. Higher soybean grain yields were observed in cropping systems including Congo grass alone (3,349 kg ha–1) or intercropped with sorghum (3,317 kg ha–1). Sorghum intercropped with palisade grass produced 18,702 kg ha–1 of dry matter and 64.9 % (on average) of soil coverage during the soybean cycle. However, the highest lignin content was observed in sorghum intercropped with Congo grass (5.1 % on average). The results indicate that the cultivation of Congo grass, either alone or intercropped with sorghum, improves the agronomic performance of soybean in succession, compared to sorghum alone or palisade grass (alone or intercropped with sorghum). The intercropped systems provided the best nutrient efficiency use aiming at sustainable agriculture in the Cerrado region.
  • Water stress alters growth and fruit uniformity of arabica coffee genotypes in the Brazilian Cerrado Crop Science

    Silva, Patrícia Carvalho da; Ribeiro Junior, Walter Quadros; Ramos, Maria Lucrecia Gerosa; Rocha, Omar Cruz; Veiga, Adriano Delly; Silva, Nathalia Henriques; Brasileiro, Lemerson de Oliveira

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT This study aimed to evaluate the impact and duration of water stress on coffee growth, grain yield, and uniformity. The experiment was set up on Apr 2015 with water regimes denominated as follows: year-round irrigation with total water replacement (FI 100) and year-round irrigation with a 50 % reduction in total water replacement (FI 50); irrigation with application of water deficit from Apr to Sept with total water replacement (WD1 100) and irrigation with application of water deficit from Apr to Sept with 50 % of total water replacement (WD1 50); irrigation with application of water deficit from June to Sept with total water replacement (WD2 100), irrigation with application of water deficit from June to Sept with 50 % of total water replacement (WD2 50), and rainfed. A mechanized irrigation mobile Lateral Line sprinkler system was used. Irrigation management criterion was based on the climatological water balance and crop coefficients. Morphological variables, productivity, and fruit uniformity were evaluated. The growth variables had higher responses to water deficit treatment, with the highest reductions being recorded in rainfed treatments. The average productivity of the coffee tree in 2019 ranged from 14 to 120 bags ha–1. Even under low water availability, Iapar 59 was the most productive genotype, and E237 was the least productive genotype. Long periods of stress and 50 % reduction in water availability reduced plant productivity. Thus, the use of irrigation to complement rainfall is essential to the sustainability of coffee production systems in the Cerrado.
  • Physiological potential and health quality of corn seeds coated with chitosan Crop Science

    Zacharias, Marina Barros; Forti, Victor Augusto; Silva, Mariana Altenhofen da

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT Seed coating is a common practice in treating corn seeds and polymers are used to improve seed performance in terms of physical, physiological, and health quality. However, adverse environmental impacts caused by using non-renewable and non-biodegradable polymers are driving the search for alternatives to overcome these effects, such as natural-based polymers. This study evaluated the effect of chitosan coating formulations (0.6-3.4 g 100 mL –1 chitosan and 0-0.60 g glycerol g –1 chitosan) on the quality of corn seeds ( Zea mays L.) regarding physical aspects (visual and morphological aspect, water content, and 1,000-seed mass), physiological potential (germination test, germination speed index, seedling length, cold test, seedling emergence, seedling emergence speed index, seedling height, and root and shoot dry matter), and health quality (Blotter test). Chitosan coatings associated with glycerol did not interfere with the water content, 1,000-seed mass, germination and emergence percentages, cold test, and root dry matter. Conversely, higher biopolymer concentrations can reduce germination speed index, emergence speed index, seedling height, and shoot dry matter. Thus, coating with chitosan 2 % and 0.30 g glycerol g –1 chitosan showed promising results in terms of physical aspects with no damage to the physiological potential of corn seeds while reducing the occurrence of Penicillium spp.
  • DNA degradation is involved with low physiological potential of soybean seeds Crop Science

    Melero, Fabrício César; Masetto, Tathiana Elisa; Rocha, Leilaine Gomes da; Silva, Daynara Martins da; Crispim, Bruno do Amaral; Barufatti, Alexeia

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT The high quality of soybean seeds is essential for the success of the crop, as it determines the field performance of seedlings. Seed physiological attributes are associated with genotype stability; thus, the maintenance of genome integrity is crucial to ensure seed quality. To evaluate the quality of soybean seed lots at physiological and molecular levels, a completely randomized design was carried out in four replications, with 12 soybean seed lots (cv. BMX Potência RR). Seeds were evaluated through standard germination and vigor tests. Genomic DNA was extracted from the root meristem of seeds from different lots with the Kasvi Spin 50 ® extraction kit. The analysis was performed through electrophoresis and visualized under ultraviolet (UV) light. The Comet assay was also applied to investigate DNA damage. Soybean seed lots exhibited differences in germination and vigor, as determined by the tests of accelerated aging, field emergence, emergence speed index, shoot length, root length, shoot fresh weight, root fresh mass, and shoot dry mass. In seeds with low germination and vigor, DNA damage and genotoxicity were observed. DNA from samples with high germination and vigor observed by the field emergence and accelerated aging tests was more preserved than DNA extracted from seeds with low physiological quality.
  • Estimating the effective sampling area of an alcohol-baited trap for monitoring the coffee berry borer Entomology

    Madalon, Fernando Zanotti; Silva, Weliton Dias da; Rainho, Hugo Leoncini; Bento, José Mauricio Simões

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT Here, single-trap, multiple-release-recapture field experiments were used for the first time to estimate the trap sampling area and absolute population density from trap catches for the coffee berry borer (CBB) Hypothenemus hampei (Ferrari). Fluorescent-dusted CBBs were released at several distances at all four cardinal points from an ethanol-methanol-baited multifunnel trap. Only 2.6 % of released beetles were recaptured, and recaptures decreased significantly with increasing release distances. The recapture analyses revealed that CBB moves randomly in the field and disperses at a maximum of 22.2 m. Despite the short plume of the trap (1.3 m), the calculated trap sampling area was 0.17 ha, with an overall catch probability of 0.01. Therefore, capturing 100 CBBs trap –1 ha –1 at the early filling stage of coffee beans reflects a 20.2 million borers ha –1 population at harvest. This results in a projected bean loss of 60.3 kg ha –1 . The findings shed light on improvements in using semiochemical traps and interpretations of catch data to enhance the CBB integrated management. Future studies on the performance of attractants and trap designs in different coffee farmscapes are encouraged to adopt the present methodology.
  • Influence of micronized salt and high-power ultrasound on the quality of beef burgers Food Science And Technology

    Araújo, Chimenes Darlan Leal de; Krauskopf, Monique Marcondes; Manzi, João Antônio Santos; Santos, Karoline Costa; Rios-Mera, Juan Dario; Dargelio, Mariana Damiames Baccarin; Saldaña, Erick; Castillo, Carmen Josefina Contreras

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT The study aimed to evaluate the combined use of ultrasound (US) and incorporation of micronized salt (MS) as a strategy for reducing sodium without affecting the quality of beef burgers. Ten treatments were manufactured with varying MS content (0.75 %, 1.0 %, and 1.5 %) and ultrasound time (0, 5, and 10 min), with a control treatment manufactured at 1.5 % of regular salt without ultrasound. The beef burgers formulated with 0.75 % MS submitted to the US for 10 min (M0.75US10) reduced the salt content by 50 %, thereby efficiently maintaining texture profile (hardness, springiness, cohesiveness, and chewiness) and decreasing the cooking loss and diameter reduction compared to the control treatment. M0.75US10 treatment also preserved the color of samples after cooking, keeping myoglobin stable. Therefore, micronized salt coupled with ultrasound technology reduces sodium chloride content in beef burgers, enabling the application of clean technology to reduce sodium content in meat products efficiently.
  • Association of polymorphisms in CAPN1 and CAST genes with the meat tenderness of Creole cattle Food Science And Technology

    Saucedo-Uriarte, José Américo; Portocarrero-Villegas, Segundo; Diaz-Quevedo, Clavel; Quispe-Ccasa, Hurley Abel; Tapia-Limonchi, Rafael; Chenet, Stella M.; Cesar, Aline Silva Mello; Cayo-Colca, Ilse Silvia

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT Single nucleotide polymorphisms are variations of a single nucleotide base pair and can be associated to phenotypic characteristics. This study aimed to determine the association of CAPN1 and CAST gene polymorphisms with the tenderness of Creole cattle meat from the Amazonas region, Peru. The texture profile (adhesiveness, cohesiveness, Warner-Bratzler shear force, elasticity, gumminess, and chewiness) of 100 animals was determined in 100 g of Longissimus dorsi et lumborum muscle. Allelic frequencies, genotypic frequencies, and Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (HWE) of calpain (CAPN-316, CAPN-530) and calpastatin (CAST-2959) gene polymorphisms were studied. Allelic and genotypic frequencies were calculated, as well as the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium with the Chi-square test. The texture profile of each group of samples corresponding to a polymorphism was compared with the Duncan’s test and the t-test for independent samples (p < 0.05). Genotypic frequencies were 78 % GG and 22 % CC for CAPN-316; 68 % GG, 5 % GA, and 27 % AA for CAPN-530; and 74 % AA, 18 % AG, and 8 % GG for CAST-2959. The CAPN-316, CAPN-530, and CAST-2959 polymorphisms were not in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. The CC genotype of CAPN-316 marker influences meat tenderness on day 21 of meat aging. In contrast, the GG genotype of CAST-2959 marker affects meat tenderness at days 14 and 21 of meat aging concerning the other genotypes.
  • Tetradesmus obliquus microalgae: solvent extraction of lipids under different process conditions Food Science And Technology

    Meroiço, Neuza Liliana Calvo; Leite, Maurício de Oliveira; Silva, César Augusto Sodré da; Martins, Marcio Arêdes; Resende, Monique Ellen Torres; Oliveira, Eduardo Basílio de; Coimbra, Jane Sélia dos Reis

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT Microalgal lipids exhibit physical-chemical characteristics similar to vegetable oils, representing alternative sources of long-chain fatty acids for food supplements. However, separating intracellular lipids from microalgae biomass is still challenging due to downstream processing technology limitations that depend on the particular microalgal species and its cultivation conditions. Thus, this work evaluated a multistep process for lipid extraction from Tetradesmus obliquus biomass instead of conventional single extraction methods to improve the lipid yield. The wet biomass was freeze-dried, the cells of the dried biomass were disrupted in a ball mill, and the milled biomass was suspended in water to obtain solid contents of 5 % and 10 % w v–1. Lipids were extracted from the aqueous suspension using the ethanol polar solvent and the hexane apolar solvent with ethanol:hexane ratios of 1:1, 1:2, and 3:5 v v–1. Tests were also carried out on the deproteinized biomass to evaluate the effect of proteins on emulsion formation since deproteinization can avoid emulsion formation. Thus, lipid downstream processing could be designed without an emulsion removal stage. The biomass was deproteinized before lipid extraction with NaOH at pH 10. The highest lipid content was verified for the 1:2 ethanol:hexane ratio, in which up to 42 % of the total lipids were extracted from the biomass. With the 3:5 ratio, the organic and aqueous phases emulsified due to the presence of lipoproteins, which hindered the lipid extraction process. Under the studied conditions, no increase in lipid extraction yield was observed with increases in the solid content or biomass deproteinization.
  • Nondestructive evaluation of changes in total flavonoid, total phenol and DPPH scavenging activity during loquat (Eriobotrya japonica Lindl.) fruit development by chlorophyll fluorescence and RGB intensity values Food Science And Technology

    Lu, Hongfei; Sun, Yanfang; Li, Si

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT Loquat (Eriobotrya japonica Lindl.) is a kind of subtropical fruit cultivated in many countries. This study aimed to evaluate the changes in the content of total phenol, total flavonoid, and 1,1-Diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), scavenging activity during the seven developmental stages and to determine the optimum harvesting time of loquat fruits by using chlorophyll fluorescence and Red Green Blue (RGB) intensity detection. Our results revealed a high correlation between chlorophyll fluorescence parameters and the internal chemical parameters (total phenol, total flavonoid, and DPPH scavenging activity) in loquat. The best prediction model from ST1 to ST5 for total flavonoid with variable fluorescence (Fv) and Fv / maximum fluorescence (Fm), R 2 = 0.79, and for DPPH scavenging activity with Fm, Fv, and Fv/Fm, R 2 = 0.92 was achieved, respectively. Total phenol correlated with minimum fluorescence (Fo) and Fv from ST4 to ST7, with R 2 = 0.99. Red Green Blue (RGB) intensity is also highly correlated with the internal chemical parameters. Both total phenol and DPPH radical scavenging activities had the best correlations with the B intensity value (R 2 = 0.998, R 2 = 0.970) in the ST1-ST4 period, respectively. Total phenols and total flavonoids had the best correlation with the G intensity value (R 2 = 0.909, R 2 = 0.986) in the ST5-ST7 period, respectively. In conclusion, developmental stage ST5 is the optimum harvesting time for loquat fruit, and chlorophyll fluorescence and RGB intensity are both noninvasive measurements for quality assessment during the loquat development period and for the prediction of the optimal time for harvesting loquat fruit.
  • Potassium silicate and light availability affect photochemical efficiency and morphology of Alibertia edulis Forestry Science

    Paula, Estevão Honorato Lemes de; Paulino, Lucas Rodrigues; Santos, Cleberton Correia; Silverio, Juliana Milene; Scalon, Silvana de Paula Quintão; Vieira, Maria do Carmo

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT Light stress damages the photochemical apparatus and affects seedling growth of forest species. Using potassium silicate (K2SiO3) can mitigate these deleterious effects and contribute to the acclimatization and robustness of seedlings. This study evaluated the effect of K2SiO3 and shading levels on the photochemical and growth of Alibertia edulis (Rich) A. Rich seedlings. The experiment was arranged under three light conditions based on shading levels of 0 % (full sun), 30 %, and 70 %. Four doses of K2SiO3 applied through foliar spray were tested: 0.0, 2.5, 5.0, and 10.0 mL L–1. Cultivation under full sun and under 70 % of shade was stressful for A. edulis, while cultivation under 30 % of shade improved plant growth. Increasing application of K2SiO3 in seedlings under full sun damaged the reaction center, causing lower photochemical yields, but increased the photochemical efficiency of photosystem II under 30 % of shade. Using K2SiO3 contributed to leaf water regulation while applying 10.0 mL L–1 increased chlorophyll indices, leaf area, physiological indices, and the quality of seedlings cultivated under full sun and 30 % of shade. Using 10.0 mL L–1 K2SiO3 mitigated the negative effects of light stress under full sun. It provided high photochemical efficiency, morphology aspects, and Dickson quality index A. edulis seedlings in environments with high or moderate light availability.
  • Organic residues and Parachlorella microalgae favor the growth and gas exchange of cedar Forestry Science

    Santos, Cleberton Correia; Oliveira, Mauricio Lacerda de; Ribeiro, Dágon Manoel; Scalon, Silvana de Paula Quintão; Linné, Jéssica Aline; Silverio, Juliana Milene; Figueiredo, Vanda Maria de Aquino; Silva, Otávio Henrique Medina da

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT Using organic residues and bioinputs is a promising and sustainable practice to produce seedlings with forest essences, such as Cedrela fissilis Vell. (cedar), a vulnerable species close to extinction due to intensive exploitation in native areas. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the effect of different substrates based on organic residues associated with or without the application of Parachlorella sp. microalgae in the emergence and morphophysiology of C. fissilis seedlings. Sowing was carried out on six substrates: Oxisol with a clayey texture; Oxisol + Parachlorella sp.; Oxisol with sheep manure (3:1, v v–1); Oxisol with sheep manure + Parachlorella sp.; Oxisol with cattle manure (3:1, v v–1); and Oxisol with cattle manure + Parachlorella sp. The addition of organic residues to the soil, especially cattle manure, contributes to increasing the percentage of emergence, plant height, chlorophyll index, CO2 assimilation rate, and instantaneous carboxylation efficiency of Rubisco due to the superior chemical attributes in the substrate, which promote greater physiological efficiency. Organic residues increased the water use efficiency of seedlings. The application of Parachlorella sp. microalgae contributes to increases in the CO2 assimilation rate and stomatal conductance when seedlings are grown only in Oxisol. C. fissilis seedlings produced in the substrate with sheep and cattle manure showed better growth and gas exchange characteristics.
  • What is new in boron nutrition? Case study on African mahogany leaf anatomy Forestry Science

    Araújo, Matheus da Silva; Marques, João Paulo Rodrigues; Aoki, Gabriel Lucas de Melo; Soares, Wellington Rosa; Otto, Rafael

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT Fertilization with boron (B) is a crucial aspect in the management of tropical soils to achieve high yield and wood quality in forest species. However, studies are still needed for a better understanding of the effects of B on the anatomy and physiology of African mahogany to improve borate fertilization programs in terms of doses and sources of B. The objective was to characterize the morphology and anatomy of African mahogany leaves subjected to doses and sources of B, as well as to investigate leaf lesions caused by excess B. In a 3 × 3 factorial scheme, a randomized block design was used with four replications, resulting in a total of 36 experimental units. The treatments consisted of three sources of B: borax (sodium tetraborate), ulexite, and colemanite, and three doses of B: 0, 1.5, and 3 mg dm –3 . After 120 days of transplanting, leaf samples with and without toxicity lesions were collected for morphological and anatomical evaluations. Following the collection, the samples were photographed and fixed in Karnovsky’s solution. The plants cultivated in the control treatment did not exhibit any symptoms of B deficiency in the leaf tissue. Borax and ulexite sources, and higher doses of B resulted in greater lesions, accompanied by the accumulation of phenols in the necrotic region. In contrast, the source of lower solubility (colemanite) and lower dose of B demonstrated the highest accumulation of starch. African mahogany is sensitive to applying high doses (3 mg dm –3 ) and high solubility sources of Boron (borax). Excessive B levels cause necrosis and structural disorganization of African mahogany leaf tissues.
  • Assessment of mutant rice genotypes on growth cycle length and response to reduced water availability Genetics And Plant Breeding

    Tejeda, Luis Herminio Chairez; Joseph, Raymond; Venske, Eduardo; Luz, Viviane Kopp da; Chacón-Ortiz, Andrés Eloy; Magalhães Júnior, Ariano Martins de; Maia, Luciano Carlos da; Oliveira, Antonio Costa de; Pegoraro, Camila

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT Rice (Oryza sativa) is among the most important crops worldwide; however, rice crops demand high water consumption. Future projections indicate reduced water availability and severe drought events, which may affect rice crops as the cereal is highly sensitive to drought stress. Thus, cultivars with lower water demand for irrigation or drought escape capacities are among the strategies to address this issue. This study aimed to assess five mutant rice genotypes in terms of growth cycle length, other agronomic interest traits, and drought response in the reproductive stage. The mutant genotypes evaluated showed a shortening of the growth cycle compared to the original cultivar, BRS Pampeira, representing a drought escape strategy. In addition, mutations did not negatively affect plant height and crop yield. However, similar to the original cultivar, mutants are not tolerant to water deficit in the reproductive stage. The genotypes evaluated have potential to be released as early cycle cultivars, which can reduce water demand during the harvest season while presenting a drought escape strategy.
  • A diallel model with repeatability information applied in an elephant grass breeding program Genetics And Plant Breeding

    Ferreira, Ricardo Augusto Diniz Cabral; Pessoa, Tatiana Vilela de Souza; Silva, Fabyano Fonseca e; Dias, Kaio Olimpio das Graças; Carneiro, Pedro Crescêncio Souza; Cruz, Cosme Damião; Machado, Juarez Campolina

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT Elephant grass is an allogamous perennial forage crop with asexual propagation, allowing plant breeders to explore heterosis and develop hybrids. However, selecting parents for diallel crossing schemes is a major hurdle in the development of hybrids. In addition, this perennial crop has several harvests, which increases the dataset size and the complexity of the statistical analyses. Here, we propose a diallel analysis based on linear mixed models with repeatability information to identify parents and hybrids, and the optimum number of harvests. We performed a complete diallel crossing of 11 parents with data from five harvests for morphological traits and two harvests for nutritive value traits. The diallel model with repeatability information aids in the estimation of the genetic effect of diallel analysis to infer the ideal number of harvests and genotype × harvest interaction. We observed that the specific combining ability (SCA) is more critical for morphoagronomic traits, while the general combining ability (GCA) has greater importance for traits related to nutritive value. Furthermore, we detected that five harvests were sufficient for the morphoagronomic traits with a coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.8; however, ten harvests were required for an R2 of 0.9. The model is a promising single-analysis alternative for plant breeders to analyze a diallel with repeated measures and to estimate important parameters without incurring in additional financial costs.
  • Pathogenicity of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lactucae in lettuce cultivars at different temperatures Plant Pathology

    Guerrero, María del Mar; Martínez, Carmen Maria Lacasa; Martínez, Victoriano; Monserrat, Antonio; Martinez, Maria Carmen

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT Fusarium wilt caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lactucae Race 1 was first detected in lettuce in the Region of Murcia (Spain) in 2017, in plantations in the northwestern area, where the crop is grown in the summer. In order to establish control strategies against the disease, studies have been carried out under controlled conditions with influence of temperature (25 °C and 28 °C), aggressiveness of isolates (four isolates from Race 1), and behavior of commercial cultivars (three susceptible cultivars and four not susceptible). In our study, all susceptible cultivars died at both temperatures for all the isolates, while the temperature of 25 °C was lethal for only one plant of a non-susceptible cultivar. The plants of non-susceptible cultivars that did not die presented index symptoms within a range from 1.7 to 3.7 according to cultivars and isolates; however, at 28 °C, all plants of the non-susceptible cultivars were infected, with 30 % to 100 % of plants dead. The results suggest that temperature affects the disease and that, in highly contaminated areas where the lettuce crop is grown in hot periods, management of the disease requires strategies complementary to using non-susceptible or resistant cultivars.
  • Interaction of Neophysopella tropicalis and Cabernet Sauvignon at two different temperatures Plant Pathology

    Rasera, Júlia Boscariol; Appezzato-da-Glória, Beatriz; Amorim, Lilian

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT Viticulture is one of the most produced fruit crops in the world; therefore, challenges of cropping systems are very relevant. Altered environments pose an obstacle; in addition, climate change influences plant-pathogen relationships and their risks. This work described the interaction of Neophysopella tropicalis (Ono) × ‘Cabernet Sauvignon’ grapevine at 25 and 30 °C, from an epidemiological and anatomical perspective. Rust severity showed no differences in plants kept at 25 and 30 °C; however, a significantly higher number of rust pustules was observed at 30 °C. The accumulation of phenolic compounds in healthy leaves at 25 °C was denser and more homogeneous than in the other treatments. The phenol pattern alteration observed in healthy leaves at 30 °C is possibly related to the larger number of lesions observed at this temperature.
  • Economic benefit of an optimized copper spray program for citrus canker and black spot control in Brazil Plant Pathology

    Behlau, Franklin; Silva-Junior, Geraldo José; Moreira, Rafaele Regina; Monteferrante, Eduardo Cassettari; Adami, Andreia Cristina de Oliveira; Miranda, Sílvia Helena Galvão de

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT Copper-based formulations are used extensively to manage two of the leading citrus diseases that affect the São Paulo (SP) citrus belt, Brazil, namely, citrus canker and citrus black spot. Since the early 2010s, studies have identified the critical period and ideal frequency of copper applications to control each disease. Consequently, results have led to an optimized joint spray program replacing the traditional one and an essential reduction in copper use without affecting control quality. These research studies have presented the benefits of copper use reduction, although the potential economic impact has not been calculated. The present study aimed to estimate the value of copper potentially saved by adopting the optimized spray program for citrus canker and citrus black spot control per hectare and in the entire SP citrus belt since 2017, when both diseases began to be managed concomitantly. The optimized program allowed for a ~56 % reduction in metallic copper usage (~10 kg ha–1 per season). This amount of copper saved corresponds to ~120 dollars per hectare per season. Moreover, if the optimized program were to be used throughout the SP citrus belt, the average saving is estimated at ~56 million dollars per season. These results showed that economic analysis reinforces the value of scientific research herein by adjusting disease management for the production chains’ maintenance, development, and sustainability.
  • Changes in physico-biochemical traits and antioxidant enzyme in Vitis rootstock treated with GR24 in arid conditions Plant Physiology And Biochemistry

    Çetin, Emine Sema

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT Plants play an essential role in the ecological cycle; however, they face numerous global biotic and abiotic stress factors. The capacity of plants to survive in adverse conditions is called stress tolerance. Drought stress is among the major stresses faced by plants, as arid conditions affect plant development and productivity, crop yield, relative water content, nutrient intake, photosynthesis, dry matter accumulation, and respiration. Hormones play an essential role in plant stress metabolism. Until recently, it was thought that plant hormones consisted of five groups: auxin, gibberellin, cytokinin, abscisic acid, and ethylene. However, other substances synthesized by plants, such as jasmonates, brassinosteroids, salicylic acid, and nitric oxide, have also shown critical vital functions in the plant, like the hormones. Another hormone in these substances is strigolactone (SL), which has been reported to perform essential functions in stress physiology. This research investigated the effects of SL applications on drought stress on 1103 Paulsen American Grapevine Rootstock. GR24, a synthetic analog of SLs, was applied to grapevine rootstock. Physical and biochemical changes were determined (chlorophyll, membrane injurity, prolin, lipid peroxidation, soluble protein, superoxide dismutase, ascorbate peroxidase activities, phenolic compounds, plant hormones, and mineral elements). The results show that GR24 applications effectively alleviate the harmful effects of drought stress in most features.
  • Distribution of available nitrogen forms in soil under Quilombola management systems in Brazilian Cerrado phytophysiognomies Soils And Plant Nutrition

    Silva, Antonio Marcos Miranda; Ramos, Maria Lucrécia Gerosa; Nascimento, Robervone Severina de Melo Pereira do; Feiler, Henrique Petry; Silva, Stefany Braz; Cardoso, Elke Jurandy Bran Nogueira

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT Management of Quilombola systems are primitive agricultural systems based on the ancestral knowledge of Afro-Brazilian enslaved people. Here, the aim was to understand the impact of these primitive farming methods on the distribution of available nitrogen (N) forms in the soil profile of two Brazilian Cerrado phytophysiognomies. The soil was sampled in Cerradão (high Cerrado) and Cerrado Stricto sensu (low Cerrado) at six soil depths (0-10, 10-20, 20-30, 30-40, 40-50, and 50-60 cm). The following management systems were considered: pasture (PP1 and PP2), maize cultivation (M1 and M2), citrus-cassava intercropping (T1), and citrus monoculture (T2). In addition, the soil was sampled in the native area of Cerradão (NC1) and Cerrado Stricto sensu (NC2). Three N forms were determined: i) available nitrogen (Av-N), ii) ammonium (NH4+-N) and iii) nitrate (NO3–-N) contents. The Av-N content decreased with increasing soil depth only in NC1 and NC2. The NO3–-N content was similar at all soil depths for maize and pasture, while the content decreased at soil depth for NC1, NC2, and T1. NH4+-N was similar in M2 and PP2, but it increased in T2, ranging from 6.17 mg kg–1 to 17.54 mg kg–1. Overall, the dynamics of available N forms varied according to the Cerrado phytophysiognomy and the management systems and NO3–-N was the most constant N form in the soil profile. Therefore, although the management of Quilombola systems is less intensive, they negatively affect the dynamics and N availability, mainly where management is less conservative, that is, in maize and citrus monocultures.
  • Hierarchical pedotransfer functions for predicting bulk density in Brazilian soils Soils And Plant Nutrition

    Reis, Aline Mari Huf dos; Teixeira, Wenceslau Geraldes; Fontana, Ademir; Barros, Alexandre Hugo Cezar; Victoria, Daniel de Castro; Vasques, Gustavo Mattos; Samuel-Rosa, Alessandro; Ottoni, Marta Vasconcelos; Monteiro, José Eduardo Boffino de Almeida

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT Bulk density (BD) is a soil physical property used as a soil quality indicator and variations in this measurement influence soil water content and carbon stock estimates. This study aims to compile a database of samples of bulk density, textural fractions, and organic carbon values, as well as evaluate the accuracy of published pedotransfer functions (PTF) that predict bulk density, and propose a hierarchical PTF to predict the bulk density of Brazilian Soils. The performance of eleven PTFs and the newly proposed PTFs were evaluated and compared using the root mean square error (RMSE) and coefficient of determination (R2) based on a testing soil database collected from the literature. We noticed a slight improvement in accuracy when organic carbon and coarse and fine sand fractions were included as predictors alongside silt and clay. The best results with existing PTFs were obtained by PTF-A in Tomasella and Hodnett (1998) (RMSE = 0.20 g cm–3) and PTF-F in Benites et al. (2007) (RMSE = 0.17 g cm–3). Our proposed PTFs use textural fractions and organic carbon as predictors in a hierarchical form. The proposed PTF-4, which uses fine sand, coarse sand, clay, and organic carbon, presented the lowest value for RMSE (0.14 g cm–3) for BD prediction.
  • Yield benefit and soil fertility improved by different fertilizer application placements and supplementary organic manure in Maize (Zea mays L.) Soils And Plant Nutrition

    Yuan, Jing Chao; Liu, Jian Zhao; Fan, Wei; Liang, Yao; Cheng, Song; Zhang, Shui Mei; Zhang, Chang; Ren, Jun; Cai, Hong Guang

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT Through a long-term micro-area positioning experiment (2006-2017), the precise fertilization locations of spring maize (Zea mays L.) in Jilin, China, were investigated using an embedded cement bucket pot. The effects of different fertilization placements and additional application of organic manure on maize yield, biomass, grain nutrient uptake, and soil fertility were examined. Six treatments were designed: base fertilizer + topdressing shallow application (BF1TD1); base fertilizer deep + topdressing shallow application (BF2TD1); base fertilizer + topdressing deep application (BF1TD2); base fertilizer deep + topdressing deep application (BF2TD2); base fertilizer + topdressing + organic manure shallow application (BF1TD1 + OS); and base fertilizer + topdressing shallow application + organic manure deep application (BF1TD1 + OD). After 12 years of continuous experimentation, the findings revealed that BF2TD2, BF1TD1 + OS, and BF1TD1 + OD exhibited 10.59 %, 25.17 %, and 29.34 % higher average yields than BF1TD1, respectively. Deep topdressing was more beneficial in increasing maize yield and nutrient accumulation, and additionally, increasing the use of organic fertilizer enhanced plant biomass and nutrient uptake. Over the 12 years considered, the soil organic matter in the 0-20 cm and 20-40 cm layers increased by 45.96 % and 80.61 %, respectively, and the soil pH increased from 0.38 to 0.48. In general, the deep application of organic manure was more beneficial for soil retention as it can increase soil fertility in the 0-40 cm layer. Considering the high yield and nutrient absorption and utilization of maize, technical advancement for soil fertilizer in whole-field tillage layers was crucial.
  • Soil organic matter influences the agronomic efficiency of boron fertilizers in sandy Oxisol cultivated with soybean Soil And Plant Nutrition

    Sarkis, Leonardo Fernandes; Rabêlo, Flávio Henrique Silveira; Hippler, Franz Walter Rieger; Guelfi, Douglas

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT Boron (B) is readily leached from the soil, depending on the soil texture, soil organic matter (OM) content, and the fertilizer source used. This can restrict B uptake by plants. Therefore, we investigated the most adequate B source for soybeans grown in soils with contrasting textures and OM contents. The plants were cultivated for 55 days in columns filled with clayey or sandy Oxisols with low or high OM contents. The clay contents (%) in the soils were as follows: clayey soil with low OM = 64; clayey soil with high OM = 67; sandy soil with low OM = 4; and sandy soil with high OM = 15. The B sources tested comprised the control (no B supply), ulexite, zinc borate, boric acid, and B-monoethanolamine (B-MEA), with the equivalent of 6 kg B ha–1 applied. Boron leaching from ulexite was lower than other B fertilizers in the sandy soil with high OM content. Boron leaching was higher in sandy than in clayey soils. Boron accumulation in shoots was lower when boric acid was applied to the sandy soil with low OM content than the other B fertilizers. In this same soil, the agronomic efficiency and recovery of B applied by plants supplied with ulexite and zinc borate were higher compared to boric acid and B-MEA. In conclusion, the use of ulexite and zinc borate is more appropriate for soybean fertilization in sandy soils with low OM content, while B-MEA is more suitable for sandy soils with high OM content.
  • Precipitation of amorphous iron and aluminum during the weathering of rock dust in soil columns Soils And Plant Nutrition

    Silva, Rafael Cipriano da; Guimarães, Clécia Cristina Barbosa; Azevedo, Antonio Carlos de; Alves, Marcelo Rodrigo; Demattê, José Alexandre Melo

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT The application of rock dust (RD) in agricultural soils has shown the capacity to improve soil conditions for plant growth. However, the successful use of RD requires understanding its effects on weathering in soil surfaces and its possible products. In this study, we present the results of an exploratory test in which a RD had its weathering intensified in a soil column by temperature (45 °C) and intense leaching (1,339.2 mm in 24 weeks), in the absence of plants. There was a significant increase in amorphous phases of iron (Fe) and particularly of aluminum (Al) to the amount of 0.13 g kg –1 for Fe and 0.16 g kg –1 for Al in the 0-0.05 m layer of the column and 0.22 g kg –1 for Al in the 0.05-0.10 m layer. These values account for 6 % of the total Fe, and 27 % of the total Al added as RD in the column. Spectral features in the visible-near infrared-short wave infrared (VIS-NIR-SWIR) and mid-infrared (MIR) range, as well as X-ray diffraction (XRD) scans, were inconclusive because of the small signal-noise ratio of the newly precipitated phases. Selective chemical methods targeted to specific soil pools (precipitated, adsorbed, and leached) were more sensitive to capture the new amorphous phases resulting from the RD dissolution. This study contributes to understanding the effects of RD on the availability of ions and the possibility of amorphous oxides precipitating in the soil. In addition, it helps identify other effects associated with using RD, such as changes in the pH, cation exchange capacity (CEC), and nutrient availability.
  • Slow-released fertilizers optimization and experimental impacts on soil fertility and wheat- maize cropping system Soils And Plant Nutrition

    El-Sharkawy, Mahmoud; Li, Jian; AL-Huqail, Arwa Abdulkreem; Hamed, Mervat A.; Du, Daolin; EL-Khamisy, Rasha R.

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT Using of traditional fertilizers to enhance plant productivity extensively causes nutrient loss and environmental hazards. Urea-coated fertilizers are expected to balance the riddle between soil fertility and plant productivity. This study aimed to optimize grain yield prediction based on plant type, soil type, and coated urea levels through the Design Expert Model. Experimental investigations were carried out using sulfur-coated urea (SCU) and urea-formaldehyde (UF) on wheat ( Triticum aestivum L.) and maize ( Zea mays L.) plants across multiple winter/summer seasons (2019/2020-2020/2021) in a split-plot design. The main plots represented sandy, loamy, and clayey soils, and subgroups (T1, T2, T3) denoted urea, SCU, and UF, respectively, at recommended nitrogen doses. The central composite face-centered (CCFC) model explained 89 % of the total variability, highlighting the optimal 100 % coated urea dose for maximum grain yield. The application of sulfur-coated urea (SCU) enhanced soil pH, electrical conductivity (EC), nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K) availability, dehydrogenase (DHA), and urease activities. The N-coated fertilizers positively correlated with soil fertility and soil microbial biomass (SMB), organic matter (OM), grain yield, and microbial population. The highest wheat and maize yields were observed with SCU application in clayey soil. The principal component analysis (PCA) reinforced the positive correlations between SMB, OM, DHA, and urease, emphasizing their significance in grain and straw yield. Consequently, the application of SCU as a slow-release fertilizer for sulfur and nitrogen nutrients proved beneficial in improving soil characteristics and enhancing plant productivity.
  • A practical method to account for outliers in simple linear regression using the median of slopes Note

    Tedeschi, Luis O.; Galyean, Michael L.

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT The ordinary least squares (OLS) can be affected by errors associated with heteroscedasticity and outliers, and extreme points can influence the regression parameters. Methods based on the median rather than on the mean and variance are more resistant to outliers and extreme points. These methods could be used to obtain regression parameter estimates that reflect more accurately the genuine relationship between the Y and X variables, leading to better identification of outliers and extreme points by comparing the slopes and intercepts of both methods. The Theil-Sen (TS) regression computes all possible pairwise slopes and determines the median of slopes as the regression slope. Here, we illustrated the potential use of TS and frequently used robust regression (RR) techniques to single linear regression using synthetic datasets and a practical problem in animal science. Three synthetic datasets were created assuming the normal distribution of Y and X values: one was free of outliers, while the other two had one or two clusters of outliers but the same X values. The TS, OLS, and RR had nearly identical regression parameter estimates for the dataset without synthetic outliers. However, the intercept and slope estimates by the OLS method differed considerably from the TS and RR methods when one or two clusters of outliers were included. The TS approach could be used to indirectly determine the presence of outliers or extreme points by comparing the 95 % confidence interval of the TS and OLS parameter estimates.
  • Soil organic phosphorus in Eucalyptus plantations, Brazil: extraction methods Note

    Alvarenga, Laís Chierici Bernardes Rinaldi; Costa, Marlon Gomes da; Gama-Rodrigues, Antonio Carlos; Aleixo, Seldon; Gama-Rodrigues, Emanuela Forestieri; Gonçalves, José Leonardo de Moraes

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT In-depth knowledge of total soil organic phosphorus (TPO) as a potential P source for plants allows for a comprehensive understanding of the adoption of an efficient management system of phosphorus fertilization in forest plantations. Thus, we aimed to compare three TPO extraction methods (Hedley; Bowman; Bowman and Moir) in different Eucalyptus plantations on strongly weathered soils. The TPO concentrations obtained by the “Hedley” (mean of 130 mg kg–1), and “Bowman and Moir” methods (mean of 131 mg kg–1) were similar. The “Bowman” method extracted less than 50 % of the TPO content extracted by the other methods. Both “Hedley” and “Bowman and Moir” methods showed similar TPO extraction efficiency compared to TP determined by acid digestion. However, the “Hedley” method is the most expensive and time-consuming analytical technique. In view of this, the NaOH+Na2EDTA extractor (Bowman and Moir) would be the most suitable since, in addition to showing high extraction efficiency, it offers fast analysis execution, low analytical error, and lower cost.
  • First occurrence of bidens mottle virus in Brazil: biological and molecular characterization of isolates infecting Zinnia sp. and Bidens pilosa Note

    Favara, Gabriel Madoglio; Ferro, Camila Geovana; Bello, Vinicius Henrique; Oliveira, Felipe Franco de; Kraide, Heron Delgado; Ribeiro Junior, Marcos Roberto; Krause-Sakate, Renate; Kitajima, Elliot Watanabe; Rezende, Jorge Alberto Marques

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT Zinnia sp. and hairy beggartick (Bidens pilosa) plants exhibiting symptoms of possible virus infection were found in the municipality of Santa Bárbara d’Oeste, São Paulo State, Brazil. Flexuous filamentous particles and cytoplasmatic inclusions typical of potyvirus infection were observed by transmission electron microscopy, respectively, in leaf extracts and cells of symptomatic leaves. Infection of both plants with bidens mottle virus (BiMoV) was confirmed by RT-PCR using potyvirus universal primers, followed by nucleotide sequencing of the amplicons. The nearly complete genome sequence of the Brazilian isolate, named BiMoV-BR, is 9700 nucleotides long and shares 95.6 % identity with the corresponding nucleotide sequence of a BiMoV isolate from the United States. BiMoV-BR was mechanically transmitted and caused systemic infection on plants of Zinnia sp., hairy beggarstick, sunflower (Helianthus annuus), and lettuce (Lactuca sativa). Myzus persicae transmitted the virus to Zinnia sp. plants with efficacy of 8 % and 42 %, using one and ten aphids per plant, respectively. This is the first detection of BiMoV in Brazil. Further studies are necessary to evaluate the distribution of this potyvirus in the country.
  • Evidence of infection of cassava plants with the begomovirus passionfruit severe leaf distortion virus in Brazil Note

    Ferro, Camila Geovana; Favara, Gabriel Madoglio; Kraide, Heron Delgado; Mesquita, Naasoon Luiz Santos; Novaes, Quelmo Silva de; Rezende, Jorge Alberto Marques

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT Symptoms of severe vein clearing, leaf rolling, and blistering were observed in cassava plants in southwestern Bahia State, Brazil. The plants were collected, vegetatively propagated, and kept in a greenhouse. Leaf samples tested positive for begomovirus infection by Polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Complete nucleotide sequences of DNA-A and DNA-B of isolate PSLDV-Man04 revealed 99.89 % and 96.2 % identity, respectively, with the bipartite begomovirus passionfruit severe leaf distortion virus (PSLDV) genome. This PSLDV isolate was experimentally transmitted to two and four of the five cassava plants and ten passion fruit plants, respectively, inoculated with Bemisia tabaci Middle East-Asia Minor 1 (MEAM1). This is the first report of the natural infection of cassava plants by the PSLDV begomovirus in Brazil.
  • A sample preparation method for reducing variability in the chemical analysis of mineral fertilizers Note

    Otto, Rafael; Luz, Pedro Henrique de Cerqueira; Bet, Jessica Angela; Quaglio, Sophia Regina; Ferraz-Almeida, Risely; Lima, César Gonçalves de

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT Analyses of fertilizer are essential to ensuring that fertilizer sold to final users presents chemical and physical qualities in the range determined by law. As regards the sampling of fertilizers, the official method currently used in Brazil for sampling preparation is to reduce the size of the sample (from ~ 3 kg to ~ 0.25 kg) by quartering, followed by grinding (so as to pass through a 0.85 sieve) and nutrient quantification. Herein, we propose an alternative method of sampling preparation by grinding the total sample (~ 3 kg) before quartering to improve accuracy and reduce segregation during quartering. Six formulations of fertilizers (basal samples) were weighed (0.01 kg precision) and sampled according to the two methods (official and alternative), followed by the quantification of nutrient concentration in duplicate. Results showed that both methods presented similar nutrient concentrations for most formulations compared to the basal samples. However, the alternative method presented higher precision (less variation between replicates) and accuracy (versus the basal samples) than the official method. Consequently, the alternative method can be used for sampling preparation fertilizers with high accuracy and precision in determining nutrient concentration.
  • Botrytis cinerea infection in Vitis vinifera cultivars under cycle inversion Note

    Albertin, Fernando; Gelain, Jhulia; Maia, Juliana Nicolau; Mio, Louise Larissa May De; Biasi, Luiz Antonio

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT Grapes for winemaking are harvested in months of high precipitation and temperatures that favor fungal infection. The cycle inversion technique promotes fall-winter harvesting with slower maturation and improved quality. However, the incidence of latent Botrytis cinerea Pers. in the berries and the susceptibility of cultivars under this pruning system have yet to be studied. We evaluated the incidence of latent B. cinerea in grape berries under cycle inversion at pre-ripening and the susceptibility of different cultivars to B. cinerea infection at maturity. The experiment was conducted in a commercial vineyard in São Roque, São Paulo. The red grape cultivars evaluated were Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Syrah, and Marselan, and the white grapes were Viognier and Sauvignon Blanc. The incidence of latent B. cinerea in the berries ranged from 1 % to 33 % in the different cultivars and harvest seasons evaluated. Artificially inoculated B. cinerea (10 5 conidia m L –1 ) did not cause disease in detached, unwounded ripe berries. However, berries from all cultivars showed symptoms of gray mold and signs of the pathogen when artificially inoculated with the same concentration of conidia plus the nutritional contribution of grape juice in a 1:1 ratio.
  • Advances in methodologies to assess wind actions in plastic-covered greenhouses Review

    Soriano, Julio; Shiguemoto, Ana Carolina Gigli; Vieira Neto, José Gabriel

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT The technology provided by greenhouses is essential for protecting crops sensitive to bioclimatic adversities and for improving agricultural production indexes. However, the need to know the exact interaction between the flexible coating and the structure under wind action has motivated new studies. The objective was to perform an in-depth review of the scientific and technological advances regarding methodologies to obtain parameters related to wind actions that are essential for the structural safety of greenhouses. This study showed the relevance of experimental methods; however, the limitations of the study are diverse, as field experiments require the construction and modifications of a prototype, which demand time and financial resources. Experiments in wind tunnels with models on a reduced scale have contributed significantly, as it allows to control the wind flow; however, in plastic-covered greenhouses, discrepancies occur due to the impossibility to represent the aeroelasticity of the construction. Modeling via computational fluid dynamics (CFD) has proven to be a solution for extrapolating limitations in experimental methods by facilitating changes in the construction model and wind flow. In addition to pure turbulence models, studies on hybrid turbulence models (Scale-Resolving Simulation) must be deepened to obtain greater accuracy of pressure coefficients. The complexity of the subject and the need for new contributions to plastic-covered greenhouse projects are a reality, which outlines a promising horizon for research development in the rural construction sector.
  • Agronomic practices toward coffee sustainability. A review Review

    Martinez, Herminia Emilia Prieto; Andrade, Sara Adrián López de; Santos, Ricardo Henrique Silva; Baptistella, João Leonardo Corte; Mazzafera, Paulo

    Resumo em Inglês:

    ABSTRACT The coffee sector is estimated to have a retail market value in excess of USD 83 billion, and over 125 million jobs have been created in the global coffee chain. The coffee specialty market has recently increased significantly, generating opportunities to certify coffee beans produced by sustainable practices. This avoids practices potentially harmful to the environment. Agroforestry, organic farming, intercropping, and soil conservation strategies are examples of sustainable alternatives in the production of coffee. In this review, we focus on practices for the sustainable management of coffee plantations that can help farmers fight problems caused by global warming. More specifically, we address soil organic matter and microbiota, the use of Urochloa grass as intercrop in coffee plantations, shading systems (including agroforestry), and organic coffee production. We concluded that from the agronomic viewpoint, we already have production techniques that can replace traditional ones with significant advantages accruing to the quality of coffee orchard ecosystems. Nevertheless, we need scientific research efforts to deal with the existing gaps and the engagement of the whole coffee chain as a means of guaranteeing an adequate profit to those smallholders who adopt and maintain sustainable practice and are capable of bringing several positive changes to the coffee crop, including the use of microbia-based commercial products and new organic sources of nutrients to complement chemical fertilizers and improve coffee quality.
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