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ABSTRACT To ensure the sustainability of agriculture and the production of safe food, supplementary irrigation is required for crops that are primarily rainfed, particularly in arid conditions. This study aimed to determine the water stress response of safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) under limited water conditions and to establish the crop water stress index (CWSI) as a basis for crop-based irrigation scheduling. Irrigation applications were conducted using the line-source sprinkler irrigation method to create three constraints (35, 75, and 100 % of the water requirement) and a rainfed condition (control plot) under different crop growth periods. The main plots consisted of three growth periods of safflower and only one supplementary irrigation during the vegetative, flowering, and ripening periods. The highest yield was obtained at 3.06 and 3.42 t ha–1 for 2019 and 2021, respectively, in the plot that was irrigated in each period during the growing season. The irrigation water (I) and water use efficiency (WUE) were 0.42 and 0.51 kg m–3 in the first year, and 0.47 and 0.59 kg m–3 in the second year, respectively, for the subject fully irrigated throughout the season. The upper base value, which can be utilized in calculations of the CWSI, was determined to be approximately 14.50. The lower base equation was obtained as Y = −4.9428 (VPD) + 19.121 at a statistical significance level of 1 % where Y is yield and VPD is vapor pressure deficit. The CWSI values calculated for each treatment ranged between −0.25 and 1.45. The threshold value at which irrigation should commence was determined to be 0.63, and it will serve as a valuable reference data source for irrigation scheduling.

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ABSTRACT The present study evaluated the granular properties of organomineral fertilizers produced from charcoal fines (biochar) and natural phosphate with three distinct binders: cassava wastewater (CW), pyroligneous extract (PE), and bio-oil (BO). The objective was to ascertain the potential of these fertilizers to increase common bean production. To form the granules, a 3:1 ratio of biochar to natural phosphate was employed, along with five binder doses (50, 75, 100, 125, and 150 % of the biochar-phosphate mixture weight). The granules were evaluated based on their crushing strength, water absorption ratio (WAR), granule density, impact resistance index (IRI), salinity index (SI), and pH. The most optimal granules were selected for the experiment with the common bean, using a completely randomized design in a 3 × 4 + 4 factorial scheme with three replications. The treatments comprised three binders (CW, PE, and BO), four binder doses (75, 100, 125, and 150 %), and four controls: unfertilized soil (NS), natural phosphate (NP), biochar mixed with natural phosphate (B + NP), and biochar (B). Compared to the CW or PE granules, the BO granules exhibited superior crushing resistance, density, and IRI, accompanied by a reduced WAR. The PE granules exhibited a higher SI and a lower pH. The application of CW, PE, or BO granules resulted in a significant increase in shoot dry matter (SDM), with values of 98.31, 123.73, and 47.46 %, respectively, compared to the NS. Similarly, root dry matter (RDM) notably increased, with values of 331.03, 755.17 and 141.38 %, respectively. The physicochemical properties of organomineral fertilizers are influenced by the type of binder used, affecting common bean production. Further research is needed to ascertain the long-term effects of these slow-release fertilizers.

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ABSTRACT The coffee industry is a vital sector of global agriculture. Coffee is one of the most widely traded plant products in the world. Coffee fruit ripeness affects the taste and aroma of the final brewed beverage, coffee farms’ overall yield and economic viability. Traditional methods of assessing coffee fruit ripeness, which rely on manual inspection by skilled workers, are labor-intensive, time-consuming, and prone to subjective interpretation. In this study, we have used the YOLOv9 (You Only Look Once) algorithm that outperformed previous versions particularly by using a new lightweight network architecture called the gelan-c model. The objective of this study was to identify and classify quickly and accurately the degree of ripeness of the harvested coffee fruits into the following classes: unripe, ripe-red, ripe-yellow, and overripe. The images were captured during harvesting with a commercial harvester in a coffee farm in the southern region of the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. Data augmentation was performed to increase the dataset in terms of images and bounding boxes. Detection performance was obtained for image sizes between 128 and 640 px. The best performance was achieved with an image size of 640 px, reaching a precision level of 99 %, a recall of 98.5 %, an F1-Score of 98.75 %, a mAP@0.5 of 99.25 %, and a mAP@0.5:0.95 of about 85 % during the validation phase. Our study significantly outperforms previous studies on fruit classification in terms of models used, data augmentation strategies, and overall performance.

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ABSTRACT: Crop rotation significantly influences agricultural sustainability through long-term effects on soil attributes, including the soil microbial communities. This study compared soil microbial communities within soil aggregates (SA) in a 26-year-old experiment with four randomized blocks involving two cropping systems: (1) succession, which consists of soybean-wheat-soybean, and (2) rotation, which consists of vetch-maize-oat-soybean-wheat-soybean. The objective was to validate the role of crop rotation in enhancing soil conditions for plant growth and mitigating the adverse effects of intensive agricultural practices. The soil samples were fractionated into macroaggregates (MACRO, > 0.25 mm mesh) and microaggregates (micro, < 0.25 mm mesh) using field-moist soil (5 - 10 cm trenches). The fractioned samples were subjected to a series of analyses, including biological assessments such as phospholipid fatty acid (PLFA) profiles of bacteria and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), as well as protozoa counting. Additionally, they underwent physical analysis, including texture assessment, and chemical analyses, including pH, total organic carbon, potential acidity, and sum of bases. In crop succession, MACRO (likely aerophilic) exhibited a larger number of amoebae, a smaller number of flagellate protozoa, as well as higher levels of gram-positive bacteria and actinobacteria and lower levels of gram-negative bacterial PLFA profiles in comparison to micro (likely anaerobic). In crop rotation, MACRO showed lower values of AMF and gran-positive bacteria, higher values of gran-negative bacteria PLFA profiles, and a reduction in the number of amoebae compared to their microaggregate counterparts. This suggests that the conditions of micro were enhanced to facilitate more aerobic growth. Crop rotation modifies the soil microaggregate environment, favoring aerobic heterotrophic microorganisms and inducing shifts in the microbial community structure, which may enhance biogeochemical cycling and agricultural sustainability.

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ABSTRACT Quantifying the impact of driving factors on crop water productivity (WP) is essential for efficient agricultural water use. To date, few studies have investigated the influence of management and environmental factors on sugarcane WP at the mill scale. This study aimed to assess the contributions of management practice factors, weather variables, and soil management zones (SMZs) on on-farm sugarcane WP in a single mill in the southern region of Brazil. An extensive on-farm database of commercial sugarcane field plots was used with a weather database to estimate evapotranspiration and water-limited potential yield (Yw). This was achieved by employing a crop sugarcane model to calculate actual water productivity (WPa) and attainable water productivity (WPw). The results demonstrated an inverse relationship between management practices and WPa, while harvest date and vinasse positively impacted on WPa. The Yw, actual yield (Ya), actual evapotranspiration (ETa) or crop evapotranspiration (ETc), and WPa varied according to the SMZ. The lowest WPa values were observed in the worst soils. The analysis revealed that weather variables collectively accounted for 46.2 % of WPa variability, management practice factors accounted for 40.5 %, and SMZs contributed 13.3 % of WPa variability. Despite weather variables being the primary source of WPa variability, management practice factors still played a key role in WPa variability.

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ABSTRACT Maize production in Brazil is notable for its high potential for agricultural expansion and extensive cropland areas. This study evaluated the current yield gap (Yg) in Brazilian maize production and investigated the potential impact of irrigation on closing this gap. Field experiments were conducted in three key maize-producing regions in Brazil to calibrate a crop model and obtain reliable data on yield potential (Yp) and water-limited yield potential (Yw) across different environments. Data on river basin flows were employed to ensure that irrigation would not result in the depletion of water resources for other uses. Our findings suggest that Brazil’s average actual yield (Ya) is 55.4 % below the Yp. It was determined that increasing irrigation levels is a viable method for achieving the potential maize yield without compromising available water resources. The average Yg is approximately 5.2 Mg ha–1, indicating a potential production increase of 41.9 % without expanding cropland areas. Strategic planning is essential to balance increased production and expanded irrigation, particularly to avoid impacting regions with water scarcity. It is underscored that the focus should be on areas with sufficient water resources to close Brazil’s current maize Yg. The results from this study offer valuable data for decision-makers and policymakers to enhance maize production sustainably.

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ABSTRACT Brazil ranks among the world's largest soybean producers; however, significant gaps in crop yield still exist, primarily linked to weather conditions. This study quantifies rainfall spatial variability using two dense networks of rain gauges and examines the impact of this variability on soybean crops’ attainable productivity. The study was carried out in Piracicaba, São Paulo state, Brazil. The first rain gauge network measuring campaign was conducted from 1993 to 1994, featuring ten gauges distributed in 1000 ha. The second rain gauge network was active from 2016 to 2018, comprising nine gauges covering 36 ha. A multi-model simulation was employed to assess the effect of rainfall spatial variability on soybean yield. The relative yield loss (Yg) due to water deficiency was simulated for three different sowing dates and across each rainfall sampling point. The findings indicate that the rainfall spatial variability directly influences attainable productivity. The extent of rainfall variability does not translate directly into yield outcomes; however, temporal variability associated with different sowing times significantly impacts soybean yield.

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ABSTRACT Ruminants in late gestation and lactation have high energy requirements, which can be effectively met with diets that include chromium and protected fat. This study aimed to compare the effects of chromium propionate and rumen-protected fat supplementation in the diet of ewes in late gestation and lactation and to evaluate their impact on the performance, metabolism, carcass, and meat quality of the offspring. The study population consisted of 25 mixed-breed ewes, aged 3 ± 1 years, with a body weight (BW) of 57 ± 10 kg, and a single gestation. All ewes in the study gave birth to males. The experimental design was a randomized block design with three dietary treatments: a control diet (CTL; n = 8) consisting of corn as the primary energy source; a chromium propionate treatment (CRPR; n = 9) consisting of the CTL diet plus 0.5 mg of chromium propionate per kg of dry matter (DM); and a calcium-salts from palm oil treatment (FAT; n = 8) - CTL diet plus calcium salts from palm oil. The ewes were fed the diets for 50 days of gestation and 70 days of lactation. Following weaning, the lambs were confined for of 60 days and subsequently slaughtered. The means were compared using Tukey’s test with a statistical probability of 5 %. The maternal diets of CRPR and FAT resulted in lambs with higher BW at weaning and slaughter, greater chest and leg width, and higher aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and insulin values, as well as lower cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels. The FAT treatment reduced cooking losses and alterations in lambs’ sarcomere length (SL) and muscle fiber area. It can be concluded that the inclusion of CRPR and FAT in the diet of pregnant and lactating ewes has beneficial effects on the offspring.

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ABSTRACT The primary concern in corn silage is aerobic deterioration. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of essential oil (EO) blends extracted from copaiba (Copaifera langsdorffii) (Co) and Eucalyptus staigeriana Branch (ES) on the fermentation parameters and losses, nutritional value, microbial counts, and aerobic stability of corn silage. A completely randomized design was employed with four treatments and four replicates. The following treatments were employed: control (CON) – corn ensiled without EO; blend 50:50 (50 % ES plus 50 % Co); blend 75:25 (75 % ES plus 25 % Co); blend 25:75 (25 % ES plus 75 % Co). The dose was administered at a rate of 500 mg kg–1 of ensiled mass (as-fed basis). The chemical composition, in vitro degradability, NH3-N, pH, acetic, propionic, and butyric acids, aerobic stability, and microbial counts of silages were evaluated. The 75:25 blend reduced (p < 0.038) crude protein (CP) by 7.96 % compared to the 25:75 blend. However, the 50:50 blend reduced (p < 0.03) the hemicellulose (HEM) content of the silage in comparison to the other treatments. The blends were observed to increase (p = 0.046) the concentration of acetic acid. The propionic acid concentration was reduced by 88.13 % with the 25:75 blend compared to the 50:50 blend. The blends increased (p = 0.003) gas losses. The fungal population was drastically reduced (p = 0.048) by the 25:75 blend compared to the other treatments. It can be concluded that the 50:50 blend resulted in high concentrations of acetic and propionic acids, thereby improving the aerobic stability of corn silage.

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ABSTRACT This study aimed to evaluate the effects of supplementation of live yeast (LY) associated with starch levels (SL) on the in vitro kinetic parameters of the gas production (GP), in vitro neutral detergent fiber digestibility (IVNDFD), volatile fatty acid (VFA) and methane (CH4) production of Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandu grass harvested in both the rainy and dry seasons. The study was conducted in a 2 × 3 factorial arrangement, whereby LY supplementation (with and without LY) was associated with 0, 10, and 20 % of starch supplementation. The variables were analyzed using PROC MIXED in SAS (Statistical Analysis System, version 9.3). LY and SL had no interaction effects on any of the variables tested. LY supplementation increased total GP at 72 h of incubation in both forage seasons by approximately 25 %. Additionally, LY supplementation decreased lag time; however, the GP rate was unaffected. The LY also caused a slight drop in IVNDFD at 48 h in both forage seasons. LY supplementation decreased total VFA production by 25.96 % for the rainy season and 11.32 % for the dry season and caused a 40 and 46 % drop in CH4 for the rainy and dry season forage, respectively. The assumption that combining LY and starch would enhance LY activity was not confirmed in this study, as most analyzed variables showed no interaction between the two factors. Consequently, no beneficial effects on increased SL could be attributed to LY supplementation.

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ABSTRACT: This study aimed to determine the optimal methionine:cystine (Met:Cys) ratio in diets with reduced crude protein (CP). Two trials were carried throughout14 to 28 days. In trial 1, 1200 broiler chicks were distributed under a random design of ten treatments in a 2 × 5 factors of variability arrangement with two protein levels (21.5 and 19.5 % CP) and five digestible Met:Cys ratios (42:58, 46:54, 50:50, 54:46, and 58:42). Each treatment consisted of six replicates each, with 20 birds per experimental unit. In trial 2, 36 birds were selected and randomly allocated in six treatments with three replications each to carry out a nitrogen (N) balance study. The treatments were designed in a 2 × 3 factorial arrangement with two levels of protein (21.5 and 19.5 % CP) and three Met:Cys ratios (42:58, 50:50, and 58:42). Statistical analyses were performed as two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with interactions and main effects compared by Tukey's test. All statistical procedures were performed using the PROC GLM, and PROC NLIN was used to fit the quadratic broken line. No interaction was observed for weight gain, but there was a significant effect of the Met:Cys p < 0.05. There was a significant interaction between Met:Cys and CP level for feed intake (FI) and feed conversion rate p < 0.05. The CP level did not affect N retention (NR) p > 0.05 but significantly affected N intake (Nin), excretion (Nexc), and utilization (kN) efficiency. Therefore, an average Met:Cys ratio of 52:48 promoted a better performance response, improved in kN, and even CP reduction.

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ABSTRACT From 2018 to 2019, total forage biomass (TFBM) harvests were carried out in four transects established in the rangelands of the Caatinga biome, which exhibited varying woody density. In northeastern Brazil, these transects are located in the municipalities of Tauá (Ceará state) and Ouricuri (Pernambuco state). The objective was to use artificial neural network (ANN) and phytomass growth (Phygrow) models to simulate rangeland production. ANNs acquired by Sentinel 2-A remote sensing data were used to obtain six vegetation indices (VIs): normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI); soil-adjusted vegetation index (SAVI); enhanced vegetation index (EVI); leaf area index (LAI); modified soil-adjusted vegetation index 2 (MSAVI2); and normalized difference water index (NDWI). These indices were calculated in QGis software (version 2.18). The development of the ANN model incorporated both measured TFBM and the data collected by the aforementioned VIs. The Phygrow model was performed using the virtual platform Phyweb. The validation models summary revealed that the Phygrow model overestimated TFBM by more than 7.5 %. A comparison of the ANNs for all sites with the Phygrow model revealed that Phygrow had lower root mean square error (RMSE) values (88 vs 462 kg ha–1 of dry matter) and a higher Willmott index (0.84 vs 0.52). However, the ANN model exhibited a lower percentage of bias (0.5 vs 7.5 %) and lower mean bias error (MBE of 6.9 vs 13.2). Phygrow demonstrated superior performance in simulating TFBM when compared to the ANN model, thereby substantiating its efficacy in estimating TFBM in rangelands of the Caatinga biome. In regions characterized by variable woody density, such as the Caatinga, the Phygrow model emerges as a useful tool for the optimization of rangeland management.

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ABSTRACT Accurately assessing the nutritive value of diets in mixed pastures is crucial for selecting optimal supplementation and management strategies, which can enhance animal performance and productivity. This 2-year study evaluated whether clipping forage at stubble height accurately represents diets consisting of marandu palisade grass and forage peanut compared to samples collected by hand-plucking. Forage nutritive value was assessed at three grazing intensities: severe (10 cm stubble height), moderate (15 cm stubble height), and light (20 cm stubble height). Two hypotheses were tested to compare the nutritive value of hand-plucked versus clipped samples: H0: β0 = 0 and H0: β1 = 1. Pearson's correlation analysis was also conducted. The hypothesis H0: β0 = 0 was accepted for crude protein (CP), and protein-free neutral detergent fiber (NDF) concentrations in both marandu palisade grass and forage peanut. However, the hypothesis H0: β1 = 1 was rejected for CP and NDF concentrations in marandu palisade grass, and CP in forage peanut (p < 0.01), though not for NDF concentration in forage peanut (p = 0.240). Pearson's correlation coefficients were not significant for any chemical compound evaluated, regardless of species (p > 0.05). Therefore, clipping mixed pasture at stubble height is not an effective method for evaluating the nutritive value of the consumed diet as it fails to account for grazing selection, and spatial and morphological variability.

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ABSTRACT The production of ethanol from maize has emerged as a recent alternative method in Brazil, particularly during the off-season for sugarcane. However, the market for distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) in poultry nutrition is not well-defined. This study aimed to investigate the impact of incorporating the enzyme complex Allzyme® SSF E (Alltech) into feeds formulated with DDGS on the production of laying quails. A total of 380 Japanese quails were used in a completely randomized experimental design following a 4 × 2 factorial scheme (0 %, 10 %, 20 %, or 30 % DDGS inclusion, with or without an enzyme complex), comprising six replicates of eight birds each. The results showed a significant linear decrease in feed consumption and egg weight with increasing DDGS levels. However, DDGS did not influence the internal or external quality of the quail eggs. Notably, the addition of DDGS enhanced yolk color values, specifically L* (luminosity), a* (red to green), and b* (yellow to blue). Nevertheless, no effects of DDGS were observed on morphometric traits, serum biochemical profile, or duodenal histomorphometry. Inclusion rates of 15.95 % for dry matter and 18.67 % for neutral detergent fiber resulted in higher coefficients of digestibility. Additionally, the enzyme supplementation showed no significant impact on the performance, morphometry, and histomorphometry of the gastrointestinal tract, serum biochemistry, and nutrient digestibility. While the inclusion of 30 % of DDGS without an enzyme complex did lead to improved yolk color and a reduction in egg weight, it did not affect on the overall production of laying quails.

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ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to assess the effects of calcium salts of palm fatty acids (FA) on nutrient digestibility and the production responses of mid-lactation dairy cows grazing on tropical pastures. Twenty-two multiparous dairy cows (Jersey × Holstein) were grouped by milk yield, days in milk, and body condition score (BCS). The treatments were administered over 70-days and included: 1) control supplementation consisting of 9.0 kg d–1 of a corn-based concentrate without supplemental fat on an as-fed basis (CON), and 2) supplementation with rumen-inert fat, comprising 8.6 kg d–1 of a corn-based concentrate + 0.4 kg d–1 of calcium salts of palm FA on an as-fed basis (CSPF). All cows were kept in a rotational grazing system with elephant grass (Pennisetum purpureum ‘Cameroon’). The results indicate that, compared to the control (CON), the CSPF treatment increased the yield of milk fat, 3.5 % fat-corrected milk (FCM), and energy-corrected milk (ECM, p ≤ 0.05). The supplement did not significantly alter the contents of milk fat or milk protein (p > 0.05). However, it tended to decrease body weight gain (BWG) and dry matter intake (DMI) (p ≤ 0.10). Conversely, CSPF tended to increase dry matter (DM) digestibility (p ≤ 0.10), increase the digestibility of neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and fat (p < 0.05), and decrease plasma insulin concentration (p < 0.01). In conclusion, the addition of calcium salts of palm FA enhanced the yields of milk, milk fat, and ECM in mid-lactation grazing cows. Our findings suggest that calcium salts of palm FA can effectively partially replace a corn-based supplement for mid-lactation dairy cows grazing on tropical pastures.

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ABSTRACT Nitrogen (N) is essential to the fertilization of coffee. The fertilizer most used to meet this demand is urea, although it has high rates of N loss due mainly to ammonia volatilization. To reduce this loss, fertilizers with increased efficiency have emerged. Thus, the aim was to select the most appropriate nonlinear regression model to describe N loss attributable to ammonia volatilization in slow- and controlled-release fertilizers applied to coffee plants and to compare the different fertilizers based on the parameters of the selected model. The data studied are controlled-release fertilizers: urea + sulfur + polymer (U+S+P), urea + plastic resin (U+PR), urea + polymer insoluble in water (U+PIW) and slow-release fertilizer: urea formaldehyde (UF) applied to coffee. The Gompertz, Brody, and von Bertalanffy Logistics models were fit by the least squares method. The goodness of fit was assessed using the adjusted coefficient of determination, mean absolute deviation, and Akaike's information criterion. The von Bertalanffy model was the most appropriate for describing the data in most cases. After selecting the best model for the means, the parameters of the von Bertalanffy model were estimated again for each repetition of treatments. With the repetitions of the parameter estimates of these models, the F test of analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey's test were applied. In the F test, p < 0.05 for all parameters. In the Tukey's test, the UF fertilizer reached the asymptote more quickly and presented a lower accumulated loss of N in the coffee tree. The fertilizers U+S+P and U+PIW have later inflection points (IP).

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ABSTRACT The growing demand for biofuels and sugar has prompted the selection of sugarcane cultivars with higher fiber content and apparent sucrose levels. In the initial phase of a breeding program, researchers might focus on classifying individuals as selected or not based on whether they display a property value above or below a specific threshold. Integrating classification methods with near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy is essential for effective selection. This work outlines a two-step procedure designed to facilitate a fair comparison of the classifications under evaluation. We applied our approach to assess three classification techniques – Partial Least Squares Discriminant Analysis (PLS-DA), Support Vector Machines (SVM), and Random Forests (RF) – about their performance in predicting the classes of two sugarcane properties derived from NIR data. Our study utilized a dataset of 460 samples, categorized into high and low levels of fiber percentage (FIB) and apparent sucrose content (ASC), both of which are closely related to sucrose content. In the first step, the data was split into training and testing sets via the Kernard-Stone algorithm to determine the appropriate pretreatments for the NIR spectra. The selected pretreatment for each method was then applied in the second step, where the 460 samples were randomly divided again into training and test sets over ten repetitions. A key finding of this study is that the optimal set of pretreatments for a specific dataset varies depending on the classification method used. This two-step procedure streamlines the process for researchers to compare different classification techniques.

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ABSTRACT Understanding the growth and development of Corriedale sheep is critical to efficient production, as the breed is renowned for its high-quality wool and meat, as well as a variety of by-products. The main aim of this paper was to analyse the live weight of female Corriedale sheep according to five candidate variables: chest girth, abdominal girth, body length, wither height, and rump height. For this purpose, data from 100 animals from an experimental centre in Peru were examined. Generalized additive models for location, scale, and shape (GAMLSS), also known as distributional regression models, were used on account of their flexibility in describing the behavior of the response variable, allowing for the modeling of characteristics beyond the mean. Three different two-parameter distributions were tested to describe the response variable: gamma (GA), inverse gamma (IGAMMA), and inverse Gaussian (IG). A stepwise-based procedure was applied to select covariates for each parameter of the distributions. The GAMLSS based on the IG distribution was the most appropriate according to the Akaike Information Criterion (AIC), with the final model incorporating candidate variables in its two different regression structures (mean and dispersion). Finally, residual analysis indicated that the fitted model is suitable for describing the dataset under study.

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ABSTRACT Regional heritability mapping (RHM) employs mixed-model and single-genomic region approaches for Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS). Although it utilizes marker groups and possesses a high detection power for identifying markers associated with target phenotypes, the significant linkage disequilibrium (LD) among markers limits the RHM's capacity to estimate the effects of one genomic region simultaneously. This constraint may hinder its capacity to detect complex associations or relationships among various genomic regions. Within a Bayesian framework, RHM can operate with multiple structured covariance matrices and can incorporate several genomic regions into a single model, effectively utilizing the LD present in these regions. In this study, our objectives were: (i) to propose the simultaneous estimation of multiple genomic region effects using a Bayesian model; (ii) to compare the efficiency of this simultaneous estimation with that of the single-region estimation using simulated data, focusing on the detection of significant genomic regions for phenotypes characterized by diverse genetic architectures; and (iii) to demonstrate the applicability of these models in breeding programs, particularly applying them to rice data. The results indicated that the simultaneous estimation of genomic region effects using the Bayesian approach offered greater detection power for more complex traits in simulated data. In the rice dataset, the simultaneous estimation method identified more regions than those previously reported in the literature, as well as newly uncovered genomic regions that deserve further investigation in post-GWAS analyses. This methodology holds promise for exploring and applying new genomic regions associated with target traits.

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ABSTRACT Safflower is a crop with seeds containing high amounts of oleic and linoleic acids, which have applications in cosmetics, food, feed, and pharmaceutical industries. Safflower seeds are generally reported to undergo after-ripening and to have physiological dormancy. This study comprehensively analyzed the physical changes and the induction of dormancy and germinability in developing seeds to determine whether the safflower population is adequately developed during seed dispersal. From the 80th day after flowering (DAF), seeds were collected separately from plants on a weekly basis until 131 DAF, resulting in seven sampling dates. The changes in length, diameter, thickness, water content, and fresh and dry weight during seed development were measured. Simultaneously, the effects of dark and light, temperature, and gibberellic acid (GA3) (0, 50, and 100 µM) on seed germination, dormancy and germination characteristics of safflower seeds were investigated. The seeds ceased to increase in length, width and thickness, reaching a mature appearance at 131 DAF, with a dry mass per seed of 0.0443 g. The water content decreased between 117 and 124 DAF, indicating an obvious process of desiccation during the final stage of seed maturation. Germination capacity is acquired at 117 DAF, as evidenced by an increase in germination and a reduction in dormant seeds, particularly at low temperatures (10°C) and with GA3 supplementation. At 131 DAF, seeds exhibited 7.9 % water content, and there was an increase in seed germination and a decrease in seed dormancy status, regardless of GA3 supplementation and temperature.

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ABSTRACT Among the tests available for seed vigor assessment, the primary root emergence (RE) test has gained prominence as a provider of valuable information regarding the seed performance of different species on account of its efficiency, sensitivity and rapidity. Furthermore, the use of computational resources to identify the RE can be very useful for refining the information provided. This research study aimed to evaluate the efficiency of RE, compared to recommended tests assessing the seed vigor of soybean seeds, and verify whether specific parameters, as measured by the ImageJ® software to identify RE, are effective in estimating soybean seed vigor. Nine seed lots with similar germination but differences in vigor were used. Germination and vigor (germination first count, electrical conductivity, accelerated aging, tetrazolium, RE, and field seedling emergence tests were performed); RE was evaluated after germination under four temperature/period combinations. After the RE test, seedling images were captured and analyzed by ImageJ® software and data from the perimeter, area, circularity, aspect ratio, roundness, and solidity were obtained. Information provided by the RE test was similar to those from the accepted vigor tests, indicating the possibility of including this test in soybean seed quality control programs. Parameter circularity, aspect ratio, roundness and solidity provided consistent data for detecting the RE from soybean seeds germinated at 30 °C for 24 h, with a primary root length of at least 1.0 mm. These parameters provide a rapid and objective evaluation of soybean seed vigor.

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ABSTRACT The impact of climate change on food production is evident across most regions of the world, including China, particularly in the Huang-Huai-Hai Plain (HHHP), which is crucial for grain production. Investigating the quantitative effects of climate variables on grain yield is therefore of paramount importance. A study of the HHHP region revealed an upward trend in temperature, along with a downward trend in shortwave radiation and precipitation from 1995 to 2018. During this period, the grain yield exhibited two distinct stages: a decline from 1.1 billion tons in 1995 to 0.96 billion tons in 2003, followed by a period of stable growth from 1 billion tons in 2004 to 1.5 billion tons in 2018. In terms of spatial dynamics, the grain yield in the HHHP transitioned from a pattern of scattered high-yield cities to concentrated high-yield areas. From a single-factor perspective, temperature (q = 0.44) exhibited the most significant impact to grain yield in the HHHP, followed by shortwave radiation (q = 0.28) and precipitation (q = 0.24). The interaction between temperature and precipitation was identified as the primary driver of grain yield in the HHHP and its sub-region, Hebei Province. In contrast, in Henan and Shandong Provinces, the predominant influence was attributed to the interaction of shortwave radiation and temperature. The sensitivity degree model indicates that 87.5 % of cities within the HHHP region are sensitive to cropland with respect to grain yield. The present study demonstrates the multifaceted impacts of climate change on grain yield and provides essential evidence for developing effective strategies to ensure global food security.

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ABSTRACT In maize breeding programs, emasculation is a critical step in the production of hybrid seeds, occurring prior to anthesis. Therefore, an accurate identification of tassels is paramount for the efficient execution of detasseling. However, tassel detection poses significant challenges due to environmental variability in production fields, the spatial resolution of aerial images, lighting conditions, and the phenotypic variability of the plants. Traditional methods are also predisposed to subjectivity and detasseling errors. This study proposes a solution to these challenges by integrating a remote sensing platform, utilizing an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), with a deep learning (DL) algorithm to enhance the efficiency of maize tassel detection. The UAV captured the red-green-blue (RGB) images spectral region at an altitude of 20 m, and the YOLOv4 algorithm was employed to develop the tassel detection model. The image database was constructed using preprocessing strategies to augment the dataset. The detection model based on the YOLOv4 architecture demonstrated satisfactory results, with an overall accuracy of 0.89, ranging from 0.84 to 0.92, depending on the levels of detasseling errors and the morphological characteristics of maize tassels. This study underscores the applicability of YOLOv4 in detecting plants with detasseling errors in seed production fields, thereby contributing to the purity and quality of hybrid seeds.

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ABSTRACT Four of the most frequently grown varieties of common bean cultivated in Chile were evaluated in a Mediterranean zone of central Chile. The primary objective was to investigate yield potential and morphological and nutritional characteristics through agronomic management improvement programs, including irrigation and nitrogen (N) fertilization. For this purpose, in 2018/19, an experiment was arranged in a randomized complete block split-split plot design with two irrigation treatments, two fertilization rates, and four varieties. The Zorzal variety obtained the highest grain yield (GY) (4.7 Mg ha–1) when applying 5,400 m3 ha–1 of water and 120 kg N ha–1. However, the N doses did not produce differences in GY. In 2019/20, a demonstration plot (DP) was established to compare the best agronomic management derived from the first experiment with the current practices of four farmers. In the DP, GY reached 4 Mg ha–1 with an N dose of 90 kg ha–1, while the highest GY (5.4 Mg ha–1) was obtained by Farmer 1 using an N dose of 130 kg ha–1 and 9,000 m3 ha–1 of water. The irrigation, N dose, and cultivars affected the length and width of grains, while the 100-grains weight was affected by N dose and cultivars. Although Zorzal and Torcaza cultivars did not achieve the highest mineral contents, they have high yield potential and higher protein and mineral by sown surface. Finally, the DP demonstrated that reducing the amount of water and N commonly applied by producers in central Chile produces yields similar to those of the most productive farms.

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ABSTRACT Using managed pollinators to supplement the contributions of wild pollinators is a promising means to increase crop production and rural livelihoods sustainably. However, evidence of the efficacy of managed pollinators must be provided for many crops, especially in tropical regions. Herein, we introduced managed colonies, including Africanized honey bees (Apis mellifera) and native stingless bees (Scaptotrigona spp.), in 23 coffee fields across a gradient of native forest cover in southeastern Brazil. We found coffee yield per bush increased by 16 % in coffee fields near managed colonies compared to more distant control fields. We detected positive effects for both managed bee species, though with higher variability for the native bee species due to low replication. Our study provides robust evidence that supplementing coffee farms with managed bee colonies can increase coffee yields and should stimulate further research and investment in bee supplementation.

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ABSTRACT Coffee is a beverage that is widely consumed throughout the world, especially in Brazil. Its high market value makes it a prime target for fraud. To combat this fraud, different methods have been developed and improved over the years to detect potential adulterants in coffee and guarantee its authenticity. Nevertheless, these methods still pose a challenge. Therefore, this work aimed to identify adulteration markers in roasted and ground Arabica coffee using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) to determine the flavonoid and phenolic acid profile. Samples of Arabica coffee beans and defective coffee beans were adulterated with coffee husks by preparing mixtures in different proportions (97:3, 90:10, 80:20 % w/w), which were then subjected to chromatographic and chemometric analyses, including principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA). Using the phenolic compounds associated with chemometric methods, protocatechuic acid was identified as a marker of adulteration in roasted and ground coffee with Arabica coffee husks, even at low adulterant concentrations (3 %).

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ABSTRACT Despite the significant socioeconomic impact of yam cultivation in developing countries, this field needs more scientific studies and incentives. In Brazil, the absence of a developed processing chain has resulted in a considerable production loss due to the predominant form of commercialization (in natura). This study aimed was to examine the physicochemical and technological composition of yams of the species Dioscorea trifida L., including both white and purple varieties. The aim was to contribute to an increase in food utilization and technological potential. The proximate composition of the flours indicated that the yam species investigated have the potential for human consumption and are good sources of energy (1,489 and 1,527 kJ), with considerable levels of total fiber (8.18 and 6.69 g 100 g–1), potassium (1,325 and 981 mg 100 g–1), and phenolic compounds (133 and 110 mg 100 g–1) for white and purple yams, respectively. Additionally, the yams demonstrated distinct properties in water and oil, indicating their potential for use in breading applications. The viscoamylographic profiles of purple yam flour and yam starches were found suitable for use in quick-cooking foods that reach high viscosity when heated, whereas white yam flour was identified as a suitable thickening agent. The yams yielded flours and starches with favorable characteristics as food ingredients, offering greater added value and enhanced stability compared to the original raw materials. They present a sustainable alternative for reducing post-harvest losses and, as they are gluten-free, they cater to the celiac population.

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ABSTRACT Agricultural management practices such as cultivar choice and irrigation management may change common bean technological and nutritional quality and affect the product price and food biological value. This study aimed to explain and compare the technological and nutritional grain quality of different common bean cultivars under various irrigation levels. The study was carried out for two years in the southeast of Brazil, including two common bean cultivars: IAC Imperador, which has a determinate growth habit, and IPR Campos Gerais, which possesses an indeterminate growth habit. Both cultivars were subjected to five irrigation levels: 54, 70, 77, 100, and 132 % of the crop evapotranspiration (ETo). Overall, cultivar IPR Campos Gerais had superior technological and nutritional quality compared to IAC Imperador. Specifically, its grain size were up to 119 % larger, had cooking time (CT) up to 36 % shorter, and contained higher levels of essential nutrients for human consumption, including P (up to 37 % higher), Mg (14 %), Fe (27 %), and Cu (18 %). Water deficit conditions reduced P, Ca, Mg, Cu, Mn, and Fe contents in the grains, with decreases of up to 22, 35, 6, 11, 5, and 5 %, respectively. The extend of these effects varied depending on the year and the cultivar. Moreover, water deficit promotes grains with up to 22 % more protein and 11 % more Zn. These results demonstrate the importance of proper irrigation management and cultivar choice to enhance common bean quality, leading to greater market acceptance and biological value as food.

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ABSTRACT Rhamdia quelen is a species native to the Americas that plays a significant role in extractive fishing and aquaculture in southern Brazil. It has been recognized as one of the most promising species for fish farming due to its resilience to management practices, rapid growth, and good feed efficiency. However, the intensification of farming systems exposes fish to stressful conditions, leading to diseases, reduced production yields, and negative environmental impacts. The jaboticaba tree (Plinia trunciflora), indigenous to Brazil, produces fruits rich in anthocyanins with high antioxidant activity. This study aimed to investigate the effects of jaboticaba fruit extract on oxidative stress parameters and whole-body cortisol levels in R. quelen under acute stress. A dried hydroalcoholic extract was incorporated into the fish diet and administered for 15 days. Afterward, the fish underwent an acute stress protocol using a net chase model. The effects of the treatment were evaluated by assessing superoxide dismutase, catalase (CAT), glutathione S-transferase (GST), lipid peroxidation (LPO), and non-protein thiol group levels in the liver of R. quelen. The results indicated that the extract effectively prevented oxidative damage and mitigated the stress-induced increase in cortisol levels. This study represents the first instance of demonstrating that adding an extract to fish diets can counteract the damage caused by acute stress by activating antioxidant systems and alleviating stress responses.

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ABSTRACT: The tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) plays a vital role in global agriculture and is a model organism in genetic studies. Visual classification of tomatoes for genetic improvement programs faces challenges due to variety diversity, uneven ripening, external damages, and evaluator subjectivity. Recent advances in the field of computational resources, such as image phenotyping have enabled pre- and post-harvest assessments that are both fast and precise. This study aimed to classify tomato fruits based on shape, group, color, and defects using Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs). The performance of five architectures - VGG16, InceptionV3, ResNet50, EfficientNetB3, and InceptionResNetV2 was evaluated to identify and determine the most efficient one for this classification. The research considered ten hybrids and their five parental lines. The experiment was conducted in the field, and images of ripe fruits were acquired using a portable mini studio. The ExpImage package in R software was used for fruit individualization by image and to aid in creating a synthetic database for network training. Images were grouped according to their classifications in terms of shape, color, groups, and defects. The InceptionResNetV2 architecture was the most efficient, achieving metrics such as precision and recall exceeding 93 % for most analyzed variables, and shorter classification times. This study advances the understanding of CNN applications in agriculture and research and provides valuable guidelines for optimizing classification tasks in distinct types of fruits.

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ABSTRACT The ERECTA family of receptors (ERfs), encoding leucine-rich repeat receptor-like kinases (LRR-RLKs), can regulate multiple aspects of plant development and abiotic stress responses. The rice (Oryza sativa) genome contains three ERfs, namely ERECTA 1 (OsER1), ERECTA 2 (OsER2), and ERECTA-LIKE (OsERL). However, there is limited information currently available on their expression pattern during the plant developmental stages. The expression pattern of OsERfs genes at reproductive stages from the booting (R2) to milk (R6) stage in Nipponbare cultivar and the transgenic plants expressing a truncated Arabidopsis ERECTA (ER) lacking the kinase domain (∆Kinase) were studied. The ∆Kinase functions as a dominant-negative receptor and presumably disrupts ER signaling in rice. The highest level of rice ERfs (OsERfs) expression was observed at the heading (R3) and flowering (R4) stages. ∆Kinase expression induced the compensation effect and increased the expression of endogenous OsERfs genes, possibly due to the suppression of ER signaling. The response to heat stress was evaluated at the reproductive stages to test the functional effect of the upregulated OsERfs on transgenic plants. Although transgenic plants exhibited enhanced growth during the vegetative stages, they succumbed to heat stress during the grain filling stages. Overall, the ∆Kinase plants generated in this research serve as essential resources to study the role of OsERfs in the response of plants to developmental and environmental stress.

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ABSTRACT Guava, prized for its economic potential, is grown across Brazil. Addressing the challenge of limited cultivars, the Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro (UENF) launched a program to select promising genotypes, aiming to introduce new high-quality cultivars in the north and northwest Rio de Janeiro state. This study uses microsatellite markers to identify divergent genotypes for future crosses to assess the genetic diversity of guava genotypes from the first and second self-fertilization (S1 and S2) populations. From S1, 94 genotypes, and S2, 98 genotypes were selected across ten inbred lines based on morpho-agronomic traits. The molecular characterization utilized 21 polymorphic microsatellite markers to assess genetic parameters, calculate distances, analyze clustering, and determine the structure of each population. In S1, the average number of alleles (NA) per locus was 2.57, with higher expected heterozygosity (He) than observed heterozygosity (Ho), indicating more homozygous alleles. Unweighted Pair-Group Method with Arithmetic Mean (UPGMA) clustering formed five distinct groups, with Bayesian analysis identifying two groups. S2 had 2.23 alleles per locus, with lower genetic variability and four UPGMA groups. Simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers effectively discriminate genetic variability, which promotes guava breeding. Bayesian inference delineated clear genotype structures in both populations, highlighting potential advancements in breeding these inbred lines.

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ABSTRACT This work aims to characterize and estimate soybean genotypes’ productive potential and industrial quality, understand the associations between traits and identify genotypes for a breeding program. Four collections totaling 301 genotypes were used, and ten quantitative characteristics were analyzed, including the mass of one hundred seeds (100 SW, where SW stands for seed weight), protein content (PC), oil content (OIL), fiber (FIB), ash content (ASH), palmitic acid (PA), stearic acid (SA), oleic acid (OA), linoleic acid (LA), linolenic acid (LNA). Descriptive analysis, Tukey's test, Lilliefors statistics, and Pearson correlation were applied. The Euclidean distance matrix generated a network of correlations, and Venn Diagrams analyzed the most promising genotypes. The analyses showed that 100 SW, an average of 15.66 %, was low. Among the seed constituents, only PC was less, with an average of 33.40 % associated with a variability of 2.02. PC and OIL presented possible polygenic control of an additive nature. The strongest correlation was between PC and OIL, with a value of −0.7. The 100 SW correlated positively with PC but negatively with FIB, indicating negligible and weak correlations, with values of 0.18 and 0.31, respectively. Collections 3 and 4 individually presented the lowest and the highest number of high-intensity interactions, respectively. The diagrams underscored the difficulty of simultaneously highlighting genotypes with superior performance considering multiple characteristics. It is concluded that except for collection 3, the genotypes presented low PC and low variability requiring the inclusion of favorable allelic forms, and genotypes with superior performance were identified on account of the characteristics 100 SW and PC or 100 SW and OIL.

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ABSTRACT: The objective of this study was to apply the envirotyping methodology to delineate macroenvironments (MEs) in the Brazilian Northeast. Multivariate analyses were conducted to investigate the relationship between genotype × environment interaction (G × E), stability, and the average performance of maize genotypes, to enhance corn adaptation to diverse environmental conditions. Twenty corn hybrids were cultivated across ten environments over two harvest seasons, with the following characteristics assessed in each environment: grain yield (GY), plant height (PH), ear height (EH), plant density (PD), and number of ears (NE). The target regions were characterized based on 19 environmental covariates (ECs) and a 23-year climatological series (2001-2023), which resulted in the identification of four MEs with similar climatic features. The interaction between genotype × macroenvironment × year significantly influenced the evaluated traits. The top five genotypes for each ME were identified using the multi-trait mean performance and stability index (MTMPS) which demonstrated favorable average performance and stability across multiple years seasons. The hybrids G03 and G04 were selected in three out of four MEs, indicating their stability and adaptability as hybrids. Envirotyping revealed a robust correlation between environments, enhancing the precision with which cultivars can be recommended for various locations within the same ME. The multivariate approach utilizing MTMPS proved effectively identified productive and stable genotypes tailored to each ME.

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ABSTRACT The objectives were to evaluate genetic divergence in 59 Solanum lycopersicum var. cerasiforme lines correlating with the country of origin, and to estimate the combining ability of 13 selected lines based on high soluble solids contents (°Brix). The DNA of the 59 lines was amplified using nine inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSR) primers. Shannon’s diversity index (I = 0.47) and Nei’s genetic diversity (h = 0.30) indicated high genetic diversity. Genetic differentiation coefficient (GST) = 0.035 suggested low genetic differentiation between populations and analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) showed that high variability was not confined to any single country of origin. Principal coordinates analysis (PCoA) clustered the genotypes into three main groups, and a dendrogram confirmed no apparent relationship between the origin and the genetic profiles of the lines. Genetic classification of the mini tomato lines based on their country of origin is not feasible using ISSR markers. The 78 hybrids obtained from the crosses among the 13 selected lines were evaluated in a complete diallel scheme over two seasons, considering the number of bunches, number of fruits per bunch, average fruit weight, fruit length and width, peduncular scar, °Brix, productive cycle, and yield. Average fruit weight and yield were the traits that most influenced the genetic diversity of these 13 parental lines. Based on general combining ability (GCA) we identified lines with good performance for each trait, while specific combining ability (SCA) revealed crosses that exhibited outstanding performance. Promising lines and hybrids were selected for mini tomato breeding program advancement.

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ABSTRACT We aimed to estimate genetic parameters and multivariate selection in coffee related to quality and postharvest practices. In a population of 59 progeny of Coffea arabica, we analyzed the most important traits related to quality. Our analysis reveals significant genetic variance in all traits. We examined the effectiveness of direct selection and multivariate genetic gain using factor analysis. Our results suggest that genetic gains are achievable by all traits, although to varying degrees. In particular, selection based on the sensory quality factor alone can lead to gains opposite to those desired for traits such as ripening uniformity, bean size, and yield. This result may be due mainly to the way postharvest variables are processed for the standard Specialty Coffee Association of America (SCAA) beverage quality tests. Therefore, under this scenario, selection using factor analysis must be applied with care. These results provide a basis for future genetic selection strategies that will improve the quality of coffee.

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ABSTRACT The mesoregions of Campo das Vertentes and South/Southwest of Minas in southern Minas Gerais state are important wheat crop areas characterized by substantial macroenvironmental diversity. Evaluating cultivars under these conditions plays a crucial role in making recommendations. This study aimed to evaluate the adaptability and stability of wheat cultivars from different breeding programs in multi-environment trials over two agricultural years in the southern region of Minas Gerais state (2022-2023). Additionally, it aimed to quantify genotype-by-environment interactions due to location or agricultural years and identify possible mega-environments. Nine rainfed experiments were conducted: six in Campo das Vertentes mesoregion and three in the South/Southwest of the Minas mesoregion. Sixteen wheat cultivars were assessed in a triple square lattice design. Traits measured included plant height (PH), thousand-seed weight (TSW), hectoliter weight (HW), grain yield (GY), and grain yield index adjusted to HW (GYHWI). Data were analyzed using a mixed model approach and spatial corrections (relative efficiency: 118-196 %). Genotype and Genotype plus Environment (GGE) biplot analysis, as well as a multi-trait stability index (MTSI) were used to evaluate adaptability and stability. Significant differences were found among cultivars, agricultural years, and locations for all traits. The cultivar × location interaction was more pronounced than the cultivar × year interaction. Mega-environments based on winning cultivars for GY and GYHWI were identified. Itutinga was the most discriminative and representative environment for GY. ORS Soberano and ORS Absoluto were top cultivars based on the MTSI index. These findings offer valuable insights into wheat breeding programs, facilitating the selection of high-performance cultivars well-suited to rainfed conditions in Minas Gerais.

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ABSTRACT Corn plant components play a key role in determining silage quality and yield. The aim of this work was to assess the importance of the structural component of the plant and grain in defining whole plant quality, thereby supporting the selection of topcross maize hybrids for silage. Eighty-four topcross hybrids were evaluated at the silage point. The qualitative traits of forage evaluated were the neutral detergent fiber of the whole plant (NDF-WP), acid detergent fiber of the whole plant (ADF-WP), lignin of the whole plant (LIG-WP), dry mass digestibility of the whole plant (DIG-WP), neutral detergent fiber of the plant without ear (NDF-WE), acid detergent fiber of the plant without ear (ADF-WE), lignin of the plant without ear (LIG-WE) and dry mass digestibility of the plant without ear (DIG-WE). The data were subjected to a joint analysis of variance; the genotypic correlation coefficients between traits were estimated, and a path analysis was conducted. The means of selected hybrids for NDF ranged from 51 to 60 %, for NDF-WE from 69 to 75 %, for ADF-WP from 25 to 32 %, for ADF-WE from 41 to 47 %, for DIG-WP from 51 to 63 %, for DIG-WE from 45 to 52 % and the yield at the silage point ranged from 11 to 16 t ha–1. The DIG-WE and grain vitreousness can be used for selecting genotypes with high digestibility of dry mass yield (DDMY) and high quality fiber. However, when the fiber quality of the vegetative parts is low, grain traits become the primary determinant of DDMY.

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ABSTRACT In the present study, the species diversity of Fusarium graminearum species complex was investigated based on morphological, pathogenic, toxicological and genetic characteristics. Fifty-two isolates, derived from small grains from 20 different locations in Serbia, were studied. The phylogenetic analysis of seven selected sequences of three gene regions, translation elongation factor 1-alpha (TEF-1α), histone H3, and β-tubulin, revealed that six isolates were identified as F. graminearum sensu stricto and one as Fusarium vorosii. The TEF-1α and histone H3 genes were found to be sufficiently informative to distinguish the species F. vorosii. These species are of particular concern due to their ability to synthesize mycotoxins that affect both human and animal health. In this study, it was confirmed that all isolates tested belong to the 15ADON chemotype. Since previous investigations have shown that climate change is the leading cause of the appearance of new, potentially more toxic species, future research must pay special attention to changes in the population of this complex. Given that there is little information in the literature about the damage of the F. vorosii species in the production of small grains, this work aimed to examine its aggressiveness and toxicity and thus determine the potential danger of its spreading. Results of the present study showed that the genetic diversity of isolates of F. graminearum species complex (FGSC) in Serbia, as well as their potential for toxin production and aggressiveness, indicate that continuous study of this species is necessary, both in Serbia and the world outside.

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ABSTRACT An isolate of the tobamovirus tobacco mild green mosaic virus (TMGMV), Tobamovirus mititessellati, was found naturally infecting petunia (Petunia × hybrida) cv. Pinstripe, causing reduced leaf size, mottling, and color breaking of flowers, in an experimental field at Piracicaba, São Paulo state, Brazil. TMGMV was identified by virion morphology, cytopathology, transmission experiments, and molecular assays. The entire nucleotide sequence of this petunia isolate of TMGMV (TMGMV-Pet) was obtained and demonstrated, in essence, to be similar to previously analyzed isolates. One hundred and twenty plant species were assayed by mechanical transmission, and 35 of them from nine families, both previously reported and unreported species, were shown to be experimentally susceptible to TMGMV-Pet. On the other hand, certain species, among 85 unsusceptible hosts for TMGMV-Pet, known to be susceptible to TMGMV, failed to be infected. Cytopathological studies on naturally and experimentally infected host plants revealed that virions of TMGMV-Pet produced para-crystalline aggregates, but not angular arrays, which are considered characteristic of TMGMV. As previously described, thin sections revealed the presence of pseudo-virions in the stroma of chloroplasts in TMGMV-Pet-infected tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum), and, additionally, in other hosts such as N. clevelandii, N. megalosyphon, and petunia indicating that this process is not restricted to tobacco.

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ABSTRACT A modeling approach was implemented to assist growers in estimating the most economical edge width to be sprayed weekly (EWSW) with insecticides for the management of the Asian citrus psyllid (ACP) Diaphorina citri, vector of the causal agent of huanglongbing (HLB), in the periphery of sweet orange farms. The model was developed based on epidemiological and economic data. Different scenarios of EWSW with fortnightly sprays in the rest of the block were compared. Four regions within the São Paulo/Triângulo Mineiro (SPTM) citrus belt were selected for analysis: Frutal, located in Triângulo Mineiro (TM), as well as the municipalities of Bebedouro, situated in the north (NO), Araraquara, located in the center (CE), and Avaré, situated in the south (SO) of the state of São Paulo (SP), Brazil. The model inputs used to estimate the number of HLB-symptomatic trees in each region included the number of immigrating ACPs, percentage of ACPs infected with ‘Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus’ (CLas), infection efficiency, and insecticide spray efficacy. Four economic simulations (panels) were performed, considering general or specific regional costs and yields. Accumulated costs, which encompassed expenses with insecticide spray, removal of infected trees, and reset, and benefits, which includes revenue received from the remaining bearing trees, were considered according to tree age (3-15 years old) in order to calculate the net present value (NPV). The highest NPV was standardized as 100, and this index was used to compare scenarios and panels. Across all scenarios and panels, the most economical EWSW remained consistent, ranging from 1 (in the first row), 217, 189, and 497 m (across the entire plot) at TM, NO, CE, and SO, respectively. This indicates that while costs and yields can alter the NPV, they do not alter the optimal EWSW.

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ABSTRACT Root rot caused by the oomycete Phytophthora cinnamomi (Pc) is the main phytosanitary limitation in avocado production in many regions of the world. Management of this disease has been based on epidemiological studies and integrated crop management, where resistant rootstocks are considered one of the main options. This study aimed to evaluate the resistance levels of six avocado genotypes from the Colombian Germplasm Avocado Collection (CCGA) to Pc under nursery conditions, as these genotypes are known to be promising for use as rootstocks. Each genotype was propagated by cloning and evaluated with and without the pathogen in conformity with epidemiological, physiological, and histological parameters in a randomized complete block experimental design with three replicates per treatment, with each replicate being represented by three plants as an experimental unit. The area under the disease progress curve (AUDPC) and the apparent rate of infection (rAUDPC) discriminated against four levels of genetic resistance to the pathogen. The AUDPC in inoculated plants of each genotype was related to the degree of root necrosis (RN), with significant reductions in photosynthetic capacity, stomatal conductance (gs), and biomass loss in root and foliage in the most susceptible genotypes. Histological analysis of roots confirmed the ability of Pc to invade and damage roots in different avocado genotypes. At the same time the formation of tyloses was identified as a mechanism of histological response to infection. The selections CCGA0143, CCGA0080, CCGA0122, and Duke-7 are proposed as elite genotypes resistant to Pc, due to reduced root damage and etiological performance to infection under nursery conditions.

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ABSTRACT The expansion of apple cultivation into subtropical climates has necessitated effective strategies to ensure high and consistent productivity. Adapting apple trees to mild winter regions involves challenges in lateral sprouting, which is partly related to the accumulation of chill. This study aimed to investigate the budding patterns of different apple tree cultivars in two sites with contrasting environmental cultivation. The study was conducted in two orchards in a mild winter region of Brazil: Horizonte orchard (ideal cultivation environment) and Lovo orchard (marginal cultivation environment). The selected apple cultivars included ‘Eva’, ‘Fuji Suprema’, and ‘Galaxy’. The experimental design involved marking five one-year-old shoots on five plants at each site and cultivar during the winter for two consecutive years. At the onset of the subsequent autumn, the marked branches were collected to assess the development of lateral shoots. In addition, the total number of spurs and shoots was counted in each orchard. The ‘Gala’ cultivar exhibited consistent spurs per plant across both sites. However, the ‘Fuji’ cultivar demonstrated a substantial increase in total spurs per plant in the low chill environment, with no discernible change in the development of lateral spurs, suggesting a high bourse-over-bourse formation. In orchards with higher chill accumulation, both cultivars necessitated high pruning due to excessive long shoots, underscoring the importance of adapted training systems and cultural practices to each growing region. Further research must enhance our understanding of plant architecture in mild winter regions.

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ABSTRACT The development or blending of new products represents a common practice of improvement for the efficiency of existing commercialized fertilizers. The physicochemical characteristics of new formulations differ from those of raw materials. These characteristics directly influence the quality of the fertilizer, as they can alter the storage and application requirements. It is hypothesized that molybdenum (Mo) can be added to urea without affecting urea characteristics and N-(n-butyl) thiophosphoric triamide (NBPT) efficacy. The objective of this study was to characterize the addition of Mo sources and rates to urea treated or not with NBPT at 530 mg per kg of urea. A total of 30 fertilizers were formulated by combining three factors: three types of urea (untreated urea, NBPT-coated urea, and NBPT-incorporated urea), two sources of Mo (ammonium molybdate and Mo trioxide), and five rates of Mo (0, 1.5, 3.0, 6.0 and 12.0 g kg–1 N). Unless the degradation rate of NBPT was not measured, the granules were evaluated in terms of nutrient content salinity, hardness, hygroscopicity, and angle of repose. The physical quality of the fertilizer was affected at Mo rates exceeding 6 g kg–1 N, particularly with soluble Mo sources, resulting in the formation granules with lower hardness and higher hygroscopicity. The addition of ammonium molybdate (Am) was observed to exert a lesser impact on the characteristics of the granules, particularly at Mo rates below 6 g kg–1 N. The interaction between Mo and NBPT remains unclear, and further research is necessary to elucidate the underlying mechanism and the stability of the inhibitor.

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ABSTRACT: In the state of Espírito Santo, Brazil, the production of conilon coffee plays a pivotal role in the economy, accounting for 75 % of national production. However, the growth of coffee roots is impeded by physical limitations in subsurface soil, primarily due to natural compaction, which restricts access to nutrients and water. To address these challenges, the implementation of deep soil tillage, along with mineral and organic fertilizers have been proposed as potential solution. These practices aim to alleviate or eliminate the constraints on root growth in deeper soil layers. The present study to assessed the effects of deep soil tillage and mineral and organic fertilization on coffee productivity and quality. The experiment was conducted in São Gabriel da Palha, Espírito Santo state, Brazil, following a simple arrangement of five treatments, employing a randomized block design with four replications. The treatments were as follows: t1 = soil tillage at 60 cm depth and standard fertilization; t2 = soil tillage at 60 cm depth, mineral fertilizer, chicken manure, and biochar; t3 = deep soil tillage at 150 cm depth and mineral fertilization; t4 = deep soil tillage at 150 cm depth, mineral fertilizer, and chicken manure; t5 = deep soil tillage at 150 cm depth, mineral fertilizer, chicken manure, and biochar. The outcomes of this study revealed that deep soil tillage, in conjunction with mineral and organic fertilization, significantly improved the chemical properties throughout the soil profile. This combination of practices increased accumulated productivity of up to 30 % following five consecutive coffee harvests. These findings underscore the importance of reducing or eliminating chemical constraints in cohesive soils as a pivotal practice for enhancing coffee yields.

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ABSTRACT The goal was to assess the impact of foliar fertilization with zinc (Zn) at different phenological stages of plants on the biofortification of soybean cultivar grains. The experimental design was a split-plot factorial design over time. Eight soybean cultivars (BMX Foco IPRO, BMX Desafio RR, BMX Bônus IPRO, DM 68i69 IPRO, NEO 680 IPRO, DM 80i79 IPRO, BMX Única IPRO and NEO 710 IPRO), and three moments of Zn application via foliar (first: application of 2 kg ha–1 of Zn at sowing; second: application of 2 kg ha–1 of Zn at sowing and 1.0 kg ha–1 in R3; third: application of 2 kg ha–1 of Zn at sowing and 0.5 kg ha–1 in R3 and 0.5 kg ha–1 in R5) evaluated in the 2021-2022 and 2022-2023 harvests. The following was evaluated: chlorophyll indexes; plant height; leaf Zn content (LZn); number of pods; weight of one hundred grains; productivity (PROD), and Zn content in grains (ZnG). The responses varied depending on the cultivars, with the BMX Bônus IPRO and BMX Única IPRO being the most responsive to foliar application of Zn, especially during the R3 and R3 + R5 stages. Yield and ZnG were higher when the foliar application of Zn was divided between the R3 and R5 stages. Application of Zn at R3 and R5 proved to be an effective strategy for biofortification of soybeans, significantly increasing ZnG (exceeding 1 mg kg–1) and productivity (surpassing 316 kg ha–1).

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ABSTRACT Studies on barley management practices are scarce, and farmers have employed boron (B) fertilization without technical criteria, relying primarily on field reports of yield gains. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of B fertilization of barley cultivars (cv.) under the residual effect of phosphogypsum. The experiment was started in 2009 using a randomized block design, with rates of 0, 3, 6, 9, and 12 Mg[gypsum] ha–1 for a long-term study. The plots were divided into four sections in the 2021 and 2022 winter seasons, each receiving a different B rate: 0, 1, 2, and 4 kg[B] ha–1 as boric acid (H3BO3). The barley cv. Danielle and Imperatriz were then sown in these sections. The data were analyzed using a split-split plot design. The yield components and grain yield were evaluated in Nov 2021 and 2022, while the soil was sampled following the barley harvest in 2022. The residual effects of gypsum on the evaluated soil chemical properties were nearly negligible, except for the yield of cv. Imperatriz, which exhibited an increase with gypsum rates in 2021, while no yield response was observed for cv. Danielle (2021 and 2022). The B fertilization increased soil-B availability and the yield of cv. Danielle in 2021 and 2022, while cv. Imperatriz exhibited an increase in yield only in the 2021 season. The cv. Imperatriz exhibited a higher yield than cv. Danielle in 2021 and 2022 seasons, with an increase of 18 % on average. The increases in soil B content (0.37 - 0.45 mg[B] dm–3) and in grain yield as a result of B fertilization of barley cv. Danielle (+17 – 87 %) and Imperatriz (up to +6 %) indicate that the current critical soil B level (0.3 mg[B] dm–3) should be reevaluated in the southern states in Brazil.

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ABSTRACT The incorporation of organic amendments into the soil offers numerous long-term benefits. Waste from Tenebrio molitor larvae production, including feces, exoskeletons, and feed residue, can serve as a valuable organic fertilizer. However, factors such as the type of waste, application rate, decomposition stage, and soil characteristics can significantly impact plant growth. This study evaluates the effectiveness of yellow mealworm frass as a biofertilizer for tomato plants. The waste was incorporated into the soil at concentrations of 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 % (v/v) and incubated for 0, 10, and 20 days, after which ten tomato seeds were sown. Seedling emergence, as well as the fresh and dry weights of the tomato plants, were evaluated weekly. Additionally, the impact on tomato plant growth was studied under greenhouse conditions. The results indicated that yellow mealworm frass did not exhibit phytotoxicity when incubated for more than 20 days; however, phytotoxic effects were observed at shorter incubation periods (0 and 10 days). After 20 days of incubation, both the fresh and dry mass of the plants increased proportionally with the rise in waste concentration. Greenhouse experiments further revealed that yellow mealworm frass enhanced stem diameter, fresh and dry mass, net photosynthesis, and water use efficiency of tomato plants. These findings underscore the potential of yellow mealworm frass as an effective organic fertilizer in agriculture.

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ABSTRACT In January 2022 and April 2024, plants of Handroanthus heptaphyllus, designated HP22 and HP24, respectively, exhibiing symptoms of mosaic, leaf blistering, and ring spots were observed in the municipality of Piracicaba, São Paulo state, Brazil. Molecular analysis of plant HP22 revealed the presence of cucumber mosaic virus (CMV, genus Cucumovirus), and phylogenetic analysis classified it into subgroup IA. Additionally, CMV was identified using a plate-trapped antigen enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (PTA-ELISA) in both plants (HP22 and HP24). The virus of HP22 plant was mechanically transmitted to Handroanthus albus, H. heptaphyllus, H. impetiginosus, Tabebuia heptaphylla, and T. roseoalba plants, a transmission that PTA-ELISA confirmed. Furthermore, transmission was observed from Aphis gossypii to H. heptaphyllus and T. heptaphylla plants. Despite the absence of discernible symptoms, the presence of CMV was confirmed through PTA-ELISA. To the best of our knowledge, this represents the first report on the occurrence of CMV in H. heptaphyllus worldwide.

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ABSTRACT This research study endeavored to examine the impact of high-pressure processing (HPP) on the texture and color of post-rigor mortis beef, explicitly focusing on the Longissimus dorsi muscle obtained from the crossbred F1 Senepol/Nelore breed of cattle. Pressure levels ranging from 100 to 400 MPa were exerted at varying processing times on beef sourced from animals of both genders (males and females). Subsequently, the samples were assessed for tenderness, cooking loss, and color. HPP at 100 and 200 MPa promoted significant increases (p < 0.05) in tenderness regardless of sex, based on decreases in shear force in instrumental texture analyses. A significant increase in cooking loss was detected at higher pressures (more than 300 MPa). HPP made a statistically significant impact (p < 0.05) on specific color parameters, and overall, the treatment at 200 MPa resulted in more positive effects.

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ABSTRACT Moniliophthora perniciosa, a basidiomycete fungus, has multiple hosts and has been identified as a significant pathogen affecting cacao and cupuassu trees in Brazil. In this study, M. perniciosa was detected on unidentified wood debris in the Parque Estadual Chandless (PEC), located in the state of Acre in northern Brazil. To provide more information about this fungus in Acre, it was characterized both micro and macro-morphologically, and molecularly identified based on two DNA regions: ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and ribosomal large subunit (LSU). The phylogenetic and morphological analysis of the collected fungal isolates PEC11 and PECT1 revealed that both belonged to species M. perniciosa and shared similarities with fungal isolates from the host Heteropterys acutifolia. This constitutes the first report of M. perniciosa on unidentified wood debris in Acre, thereby broadening our understanding of the pathogen’s distribution and ecological niche. Further studies are necessary to ascertain the geographical distribution of M. perniciosa within the country.

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ABSTRACT This scientific note outlines the design, components, radiological protection, and operation of a cost-effective X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometer produced in-house. Priced at approximately half that of other commercial models, this spectrometer delivers comparable performance, as demonstrated in a case study involving agricultural soil samples. The document guides researchers interested in constructing their own devices using readily available components, thereby allowing for customized setups tailored to specific applications. The objective is to encourage the adoption and automation of XRF spectrometry within the Soil Science and Agronomic Engineering community, thereby enhancing its utility as a rapid and environmentally friendly tool for monitoring agricultural samples, including those collected from hybrid and/or mobile laboratories.

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ABSTRACT The cooling of pig carcasses is crucial for ensuring the microbiological safety of meat. The current Brazilian regulations (Ordinance No. 711/1995) mandate a minimum spacing of 0.33 m between carcasses suspended on overhead rails in cooling chambers. However, advancements in refrigeration technology indicate that reducing this spacing could enhance production efficiency without compromising product quality. This study assessed the impact of reduced spacing on the cooling rate, pH, and microbial counts of 120 pig carcasses across six chambers (20 per chamber), divided into two groups: protocol (TP, 0.25 m) and control (TC, 0.33 m). The carcasses were monitored for12-hours to assess temperature, pH, and microbiological counts. No significant differences were observed between treatments (p > 0.05). Time was the only factor influencing all variables, resulting in reductions in measurements, except for mesophilic aerobes. The cooling rates were recorded at 0.189 °C for TP and 0.182 °C for TC, with final temperatures of 6.80 °C and 6.84 °C, respectively. The final pH values were 5.94 for TP and 5.99 for TC, while the counts of mesophilic aerobes and enterobacteria remained below the threshold specified by legal regulations. These findings suggest that reducing carcass spacing does not adversely affect cooling efficiency or microbiological quality, thereby supporting potential updates to regulations.

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ABSTRACT Sweet orange is an important fruit crop in several countries in tropical and subtropical regions. However, a devastating disease, Huanglongbing (HLB), threatens its production. This disease is associated with the bacterium ‘Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus’ (CLas), transmitted by the Asian citrus psyllid. This text examines the intricate relationships between host, pathogen, vector, and environment factors that complicate HLB control. It also reviews potential strategies, such as searching for resistance varieties, and discusses recommended HLB management, including eradication and preventive measures, while highlighting the difficulties in implementing effective management. This text points out the urgent need for innovative and integrated approaches to slow the progression of HLB and mitigate its impact on global citrus production.

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ABSTRACT A bibliometric study was undertaken to analyze the spatiotemporal distribution of works related to managing boron (B) in Eucalyptus spp. from 1970 to 2022. This analysis was based on the Web of Science and Scopus databases, and 121 documents were retrieved. The eight main aspects analyzed were (1) annual scientific production, (2) most relevant research sources, (3) world scientific production, (4) association between countries, (5) most relevant affiliations, (6) indexed terms, (7) most relevant authors, and (8) most cited documents. The results indicated that publications of studies about B in eucalyptus have increased significantly over the last decade (2010-2020). Brazil has produced the most studies relating to the nutritional management of B in eucalyptus, as is mainly reflected in the numbers of researchers, research institutions, and journals that have published on the subject. Our study found that most works have been developed regionally, with little international collaboration between countries although researchers from the United States are the most frequent partners in international collaborations. The majority of the articles analyzed focused on studying the influence of B doses on the growth and rooting of eucalyptus seedlings. Finally, one significant gap in the literature is the need for studies on sources of B via soil and leaves, and new studies on this subject should be commissioned. Thus, the bibliometric review was an efficient approach for observing the main advances in managing B in eucalyptus in recent decades and identifying the leading research groups and future opportunities for scientific advances in this area.

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ABSTRACT: Meat consumption has been declining in favor of a shift towards poultry due to its lower price, health benefits and consumers’ preference. One of the ways to enhance broiler production and quality is to substitute standard maize (SM) with quality protein maize (QPM) in animal diets. QPM is a high lysine maize with improved nutritional and biological values, developed by the selection of a naturally occurring recessive opaque2 mutation, which can reduce the use of costly feed components - synthetic lysine and protein ingredients such as soybean and fishmeal. Different feeding trials with QPM in broiler diets indicated that body weight gain (BWG), feed conversion ratio (FCR), breast meat yield (BMY), and abdominal fat (AF) are the main improved features. Herein, an overview of the effects of QPM on broiler performance and carcass characteristics, as well as the financial effects of its use, is presented. Different effects of QPM were observed, depending, in the main, on the QPM hybrid used in the trial. The possible reasons for the discrepancies and suggestions for overcoming them, focused on the utilization of the full potential of QPM, are discussed.

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ABSTRACT Boron (B) is an essential element that limits crop productivity and quality in tropical regions due to its low availability. Rainfall regime influences B dynamics in soil, which, in turn, affects crop responses to B. Tropical soils are considered low in B if concentrations are less than 0.20 and 0.60 mg kg–1 for annual and perennial crops, respectively. The B availability in soil is governed by the soil’s pH, texture, organic matter (OM) content, cation exchange capacity, and source material. Plants’ uptake of B occurs passively, although it varies according to its availability in the soil solution. The presence of low- affinity (BOR1 gene) and high-affinity (NIP5;1 gene) transporters has been characterized. B deficiency can impair crop development due to its role in cell metabolism at the molecular, physiological, anatomical, and morphological levels. Both B deficiency and toxicity affect plant growth, highlighting the importance of monitoring B availability by assessing soil fertility to optimize crop performance and quality. Further study should examine the nutritional management of economically important crops using B sources with different solubility in water, application rates, particle sizes, placement, forms, and timing. The speculation that the range between B deficiency and toxicity is narrow may be misunderstood, especially when foliar diagnosis is still neglected. This review aims to understand B dynamics in tropical soils, its functions in higher plants cultivated in these regions, and how its deficiency and/or toxicity can affect agricultural production.

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ABSTRACT The Cactaceae family is known for its adaptation to dry habitats and peculiar morphology of different forms and sizes, composed of perennial succulent stem-bearing spine plants, lacking broad green leaves. Cactaceous plants have been cultivated for food production, medicinal and cosmetic products, animal fodder, construction, and ornamental applications. Among them, the widely cultivated dragon fruit (genus Hylocereus and Selenicereus) is gaining prominence. Physiologically, they have reduced their photorespiration and achieved higher water-use efficiency rates than the other metabolic types. For this reason, cacti have the potential to become a stable food source in the future scenario of global climate change. Many pests and diseases have been described affecting cactaceous plants, including viruses. Viral infection of cacti is mostly asymptomatic though examples of mottling, chlorotic, or necrotic ringspots have been described, and their economic impact is unknown as yet. The cytopathic effect, such as spindle-shaped inclusions in epidermal and parenchymal cells, was first observed in the late 19th century. Subsequently, it was discovered that they were indeed aggregate particles of potexvirus. Until the turn of the 21st century, few viruses among cacti were known (genera Potexvirus, Tobamovirus, Carlavirus, and Alphacarmovirus); however, since the advent of advances in molecular tools, several new cactus viruses (families Tospoviridae, Solemoviridae, Caulimoviridae, Geminiviridae and Genomoviridae) have been described. Currently, 31 distinct virus species, belonging to 13 genera of nine families, as well as three viroids of two genera, have been documented to naturally infect cacti. This review updates the number of known cactus viruses, providing a brief description of each of them.

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ABSTRACT Bananas rank among the most widely consumed fruits globally. However, their cultivation generates substantial waste, including peels, leaves, inflorescences, and pseudostems, with up to 80 % of the plant's biomass being discarded. This waste not only poses considerable environmental and economic challenges but also represents an underutilized resource rich in unique nutritional and bioactive compounds, such as neurotransmitters, essential fatty acids, enzymes, and flavor constituents that are common in other agricultural byproducts. In this review, we present recent statistics on banana production and waste generation, alongside an examination of the potential applications of banana waste. These applications include direct consumption to combat malnutrition, incorporation into functional foods, the development of innovative food packaging, and contributions to sustainable agriculture. Additionally, we address the cultural significance of banana waste, review current life cycle analysis studies that highlight its environmental benefits, and outline the strategies for its valorization, addressing commercial viability, technical challenges, and regulatory considerations. By elucidating the processing challenges and multifunctional potential of banana waste in food science and technology, this study provides a comprehensive roadmap for leveraging this abundant resource to advance sustainable development goals, minimize agricultural waste, enhance global nutrition, and promote eco-friendly technological innovations.