Showing papers in "Acta Scientiarum-agronomy in 2013"
TL;DR: GENES as mentioned in this paper is a software package used for data analysis and processing with different biometric models and is essential in genetic studies applied to plant and animal breeding It allows parameter estimation to analyze biological phenomena and is fundamental for the decision-making process and predictions of success and viability of selection strategies.
Abstract: GENES is a software package used for data analysis and processing with different biometric models and is essential in genetic studies applied to plant and animal breeding It allows parameter estimation to analyze biological phenomena and is fundamental for the decision-making process and predictions of success and viability of selection strategies The program can be downloaded from the Internet (http://wwwufvbr/dbg/genes/geneshtm or http://wwwufvbr/dbg/biodatahtm) and is available in Portuguese, English and Spanish Specific literature (http://wwwlivrariaufvbr/) and a set of sample files are also provided, making GENES easy to use The software is integrated into the programs MS Word, MS Excel and Paint, ensuring simplicity and effectiveness in data import and export of results, figures and data It is also compatible with the free software R and Matlab, through the supply of useful scripts available for complementary analyses in different areas, including genome wide selection, prediction of breeding values and use of neural networks in genetic improvement
1,190 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors developed a method to rescue adult mate plants through the generation of epicormic sprouts using a mixture of sucrose and indole-3-butyric acid (IBA).
Abstract: The difficulty and length of time required for seed germination of mate (Ilex paraguariensis), as well as the pressing need for clonal multiplication of improved genetic material, has resulted in several studies related to vegetative propagation in an effort to obtain rooted cuttings more quickly and with better genetic quality. Currently, the biggest challenge is propagating and rooting adult plants selected in the field without requiring clear cutting to generate conditions for the basal induction of juvenile sprouts. Therefore, the objective of this study was to develop a method to rescue adult mate plants through the generation of epicormic sprouts. To accomplish this, tree branches of mate that were at least 19 years of age were collected and packed in trays with sand for sprouting. Different solutions containing a mixture of sucrose and indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) were sprayed in branches at 29, 22, 15, 8 and 1 day(s) before collection. We conclude that the vegetative propagation of adult mate trees is technically efficient and requires no treatment with sucrose or IBA and results in the formation of plants suitable for planting or serving as mother plants for continuous multiplication via cloning.
39 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the authors evaluated the effectiveness of organic wastes and Fermented Bokashi Compost (FBC) to establish the most efficient use of organic waste for a soil, changing the net nitrogen mineralization and soil chemical properties.
Abstract: The use of organic wastes in agricultural soils is one of the possible ways to employ these materials. The aims of this study were to evaluate the effectiveness of organic wastes and Fermented Bokashi Compost (FBC), to establish the most efficient use of organic wastes for a soil, changing the net nitrogen mineralization and soil chemical properties. The experimental design was completely randomized in a 6 x 2 x 5 factorial, being five organic wastes plus an control (soil without waste), with or without FBC, evaluated at 0, 7, 42, 70 and 91 days of incubation, with three replicates, under laboratory conditions. The organic wastes enhanced the soil chemical properties and increased nitrogen concentration in soil. However, the net nitrogen mineralization was affected by C/N ratio of wastes and incubation time. The FBC mixed with the wastes accelerated and enhanced organic matter degradation, resulting in quickly available quantity of net nitrogen. The wastes can be considered potentially useful as organic fertilizer but their usefulness appears to depend on knowing the C/N ratio of each one. The FBC can be used when one wants a more accelerated degradation, resulting in a quicker quantity of available nutrients to the plants.
39 citations
IAC1
TL;DR: In this article, the authors compared the performance of the Mann-Kendall trend test (MK_prew) and MK_interact for detecting trends in auto-correlated series.
Abstract: Pre-whitening approaches have been widely used to remove the influence of serial correlations on the Mann-Kendall trend test (MK_prew). However, previous studies indicate that this procedure may lead to a false reduction of the significance of a trend. An alternative approach (MK_interact) has been proposed to improve the assessment of the significance of a trend in auto-correlated data. Therefore, the present study compared the performance of the MK_prew and MK_interact for detecting trends in auto-correlated series. Sets of Monte Carlo experiments were carried out to evaluate the occurrence of type I and II errors obtained from both approaches. The analyses were also based on 10-day values of the difference between precipitation and potential evapotranspiration (P-EP) obtained from the location of Campinas, State of Sao Paulo, Brazil. The results found in this study allow us to conclude that the MK_interac outperformed the MK_prew in correctly identifying the significance of trends and that, concerning agricultural interests, the decreasing trend described by the MK_interac during the beginning of the crop growing seasons may reveal an unfavorable temporal distribution of the P-EP values.
35 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the defense mechanisms involved in cultivar-specific and ulvan-induced plant resistance to Glomerella leaf spot (GLS) are associated with changes in the activities of peroxidase and β-1,3-glucanase.
Abstract: Glomerella leaf spot (GLS) is an important disease of apple plants, and the use of the algal polysaccharide ulvan represents a new technology for its control. This study aimed to verify whether the defense mechanisms involved in cultivar-specific and ulvan-induced plant resistance to GLS are associated with changes in the activities of peroxidase and β-1,3-glucanase. Seedlings were first sprayed with ulvan or water and then inoculated with Colletotrichum gloeosporioides 6 days later. The disease severity was recorded daily on both young and old leaves up to 10 days after inoculation, and the enzyme activities were monitored from 24 to 72h after inoculation (HAI). Although the young leaves were more susceptible to GLS, ulvan reduced approximately 66% of the disease severity in both of the leaf age groups. Additionally, the cultivar-specific and ulvan-induced resistance was associated with enhanced peroxidase activity at 24 and 72 HAI, respectively. Both the resistant and susceptible seedlings exhibited similar glucanase activities.
35 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the mineral content and quality of fruits of different blackberry cultivars produced in Lavras, Southern Minas Gerais, in a tropical climate at an elevation (Cwb, according to Koppen) were analyzed.
Abstract: Sensorial attributes such as color, texture, acidity and nutritional composition are essential quality components for blackberry (Rubus spp.). The mineral content and quality of fruits of different blackberry cultivars produced in Lavras, Southern Minas Gerais, in a tropical climate at an elevation (Cwb, according to Koppen) were analyzed. The analyzed minerals were phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn), copper (Cu) and iron (Fe). Additionally, chemical characteristics, the total acidity (citric acid), pH, soluble solids (°Brix) and vitamin C (ascorbic acid) level, and sensory characteristics, color (L*a*b) and firmness (N) were also evaluated. According to the results, the Choctaw and Xavante blackberry cultivars demonstrated the highest mineral contents, the Caingangue cultivar showed the highest soluble solid content, and the Ebano cultivar exhibited the highest vitamin C concentration and firmer fruits. The chemical variables in the fruits of the different blackberry cultivars presented little significant correlation with the contents of macrominerals present, whereas the opposite was obtained for the micronutrients. However, the chemical characteristics combined with the nutritional characteristics can be proposed as an excellent tool for the selection of cultivars of superior quality and high nutritional value.
34 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors assessed the yield and quality of fruits from strawberry cultivars grown in two systems (soil and substrate) in a greenhouse and found that the yield was higher in soil culture, while the quality was high in the substrate system.
Abstract: Until recently, strawberry cultivation was exclusively performed in soil using conventional cultivation methods, which resulted in many environmental and phytosanitary problems. Currently, soilless culture is the production method advocated for environmental reasons because it greatly reduces the use of chemical pesticide and fungicide inputs. This study assessed the yield and quality of fruits from strawberry cultivars grown in two systems (soil and substrate) in a greenhouse. The experiment was performed from September 2010 to January 2011 in the University of Passo Fundo, Rio Grande do Sul State. Treatments (cultivars x culture systems) were arranged in a random block design with a 7 x 2 factorial arrangement. Evaluation included number, total and commercial fresh weight of fruits per plant, transversal diameter, total titratable acidity (TTA), total soluble solids (TSS), TSS/TTA ratio and the pH of fruits. The cultivars Camarosa, Florida Festival and Portola excelled in relation to yield when grown in the soil system. In substrate culture, all cultivars had similar performance. The yield was higher in soil culture, while the quality was higher in the substrate system.
32 citations
TL;DR: Evaluated microbiological activity of caraway oil obtained from fruit originated from different genotypes and investigated the correlation between this activity and essential oil content and its main components content found a significant negative correlation between MIC and carvone content, however positive correlation was observed betweenMIC and limonene content.
Abstract: Caraway is one of the most important medicinal plant cultivated in Poland. Caraway essential oil performs medium antimicrobial activity, although it inhibits growth of many bacteria and fungi. The aim of the study was to evaluate microbiological activity of caraway oil obtained from fruit originated from different genotypes and investigate the correlation between this activity and essential oil content and its main components content. In the experiments done in 2008 and 2009, essential oil of 20 selected caraway genotypes originated from: European botanical gardens (17), cultivar 'Konczewicki' and our own breeding strains (2) was tested. The Minimal Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) of oil, which inhibited standard bacterial strain was investigated. MIC value was recalculated to antibiotic units (AU). The microbiological activity of caraway oil of the tested objects was significantly different. The strongest activity performed oil of population from genotype Cluj (MIC = 0.16 mg mL -1 ; AU = 8650), while the weakest activity was determined for oil of population from genotype Krakow (MIC = 1.75 mg mL -1 ; AU = 582). A significant negative correlation was observed between MIC and carvone content, however positive correlation was observed between MIC and limonene content. Caraway essential oil exhibited medium antimicrobial activity and carvone can be recognized as a one of the active component.
29 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors evaluated the relationship between different land use systems and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) communities in the semi-arid region of the State of Paraiba, NE Brazil.
Abstract: The diversity of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) can be a critical factor in enhancing both the productivity and the diversity of plants in ecosystems, and the plants in the ecosystem also strongly influence the occurrence of these fungi. The relationships between different land use systems and AMF communities in the semi-arid region of the State of Paraiba, NE Brazil were evaluated. The experiment followed a split-plot randomized block design, with four replicates. The main plots were defined by the presence or absence of trees (gliricidia and manicoba), while the split plots were defined by three land use systems: 1) traditional cropping of maize + beans, 2) buffel grass pasture, and 3) prickly pear forage crop. The presence of trees increased sporulation, mycorrhizal colonization and the production of infective propagules of AMF in all three land use systems. Greater production of glomalin-related soil protein (GRSP) occurred in the prickly pear plots regardless of the presence or absence of trees. Species belonging to the Glomus genus predominated regardless of the presence of trees, land use systemor soil sampling period.
24 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the authors evaluated seed germination and the initial growth of the primary roots in D. aurantiaca at different temperatures using seeds collected in the village of Taboco in Mato Grosso do Sul state, Brazil.
Abstract: Diptychandra aurantiaca is a tree belonging to the Fabaceae family. The wood of this tree is moderately heavy and resistant, and it is used to make posts, wooden sleepers and building, among other structures. The aim of this work was to evaluate seed germination and the initial growth of the primary roots in D. aurantiaca at different temperatures using seeds collected in the village of Taboco in Mato Grosso do Sul state, Brazil. The seeds were subjected to constant temperatures of 20, 25, 30 and 35°C and alternating temperatures of 20-30 and 25-35°C using four replications of 25 seeds per treatment in a germination chamber. The results showed that most seeds germinated at 25 and 30°C, with 97 and 87%, respectively, thus indicating that these temperatures are efficient to not only promote germination but also to potentiate the speed (1,1 - 25 and 30°C) and decrease the average germination time (9.0 - 25°C and [a1] 7.1 - 30°C), highest allocation of dry biomass (0.0067 g at 25°C and 0.0055 g at 30°C) and the greatest primary root size (17.5 mm at 25°C and 16.5 mm at 30°C). [a1] Acertar formatacao.
23 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the effect of salt stress and GA3-priming on initial growth of two rapeseed cultivars, one tolerant and one sensitive to salt stress during germination, was examined.
Abstract: Experiments were performed to examine the effect of salt stress and GA3-priming on initial growth of two rapeseed cultivars, one tolerant and one sensitive to salt stress during germination. Seedlings from seeds germinated in salty (as NaCl) and non salty substrate were grown in salty and non salty hydroponics. Salt stress reduced seedling growth of the two genotypes consistently with their degree of stress tolerance during germination. Seedlings from stress sensitive seeds germinated under high salinity showed a rapid recover of growth in non stressing conditions. The effect of salt stress on shoot/root ratio was controversial, increased for lab and decreased for greenhouse experiments, probably due to different timing of stress application and additional experimental conditions. Salt stress decreased leaf photosynthesis and increased thermal dissipation in sensitive seedlings (decrease of ΦPSII and qP, increase of NPQ). The GA3-priming did not affect seedling growth of the stress sensitive cultivar subjected to stress, while it greatly improved the performance of the stress tolerant cultivar.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors evaluated the fluctuation of S. frugiperda eggs and natural parasitism by Trichogramma and identify and quantify parasitoid species in maize fields in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
Abstract: This study aimed to evaluate the fluctuation of S. frugiperda eggs and natural parasitism by Trichogramma and identify and quantify parasitoid species in maize fields in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Surveys were carried out in two growing seasons: in 2006/2007 we assessed one growing season (late sowing) in Santa Maria, and in 2007/2008 we assessed two growing seasons (early and late sowing) in Santa Barbara do Sul. Daily air temperature and rainfall were recorded at both locations. In each evaluation, entire plants were examined for the presence or absence of S. frugiperda egg masses, which were analyzed for larvae hatching or parasitoid emergence. The number of S. frugiperda eggs is higher between 8 and 30 days after plant emergence, decreasing in the later stages of maize growth; the occurrence of parasitoids begins about two days after pest egg occurrence; S. frugiperda egg parasitism is low; and eggs are parasitized by Trichogramma pretiosum and Trichogramma atopovirilia, with marked predominance of the first and possible occurrence of both parasitoid species in the same egg mass.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors verified the occurrence of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in weeds infesting Brazilian crops and evaluated the inorganic phosphate solubilization potential of the associated microbiota.
Abstract: Studies on the ecology of the organisms involved in the production process are necessary for the development of sustainable agriculture, and sustainability is currently closely linked to the profitability of production. The objective of this study was to verify the occurrence of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in weeds infesting Brazilian crops and to evaluate the inorganic phosphate solubilization potential of the associated microbiota. A total of 36 weed species were evaluated for the occurrence of mycorrhizae; of these, 11 were selected to evaluate their potential for total and relative phosphate solubilization. All of the species demonstrated mycorrhizal colonization, including a member of the Brassicaceae family, which is usually assumed to be non-mycorrhizal. In most of the species, morphological types of arbuscular and coiled hyphae were observed, with the coiled hyphae being the most common in the grasses. Dark septate endophytic fungi were observed in most of the plants. The weeds presented different potentials for P solubilization in the rhizosphere; Amaranthus retroflexus, Bidens pilosa and Leonotis nepetaefolia showed high values of relative phosphate solubilization. This is the first report on the mycorrhizae and phosphate solubilization activity in weeds in Brazil.
TL;DR: In this paper, Salicylic acid and cold shock treatments were used to increase root and total seedling length and dry weight, especially at intermediate water stress levels, in beans.
Abstract: The application of short-term stresses or elicitors in seedlings or embryos with high metabolic activity might increase multi-adversity tolerance. Beans seeds cv. IAC-Carioca were exposed to cold shock temperatures (S - 7°C 24h -1 ) and salicylic acid (SA - 0.01 mM 48h -1 ) during imbibition to study physiological responses to osmotic stress physiological responses. The seeds were soaked in paper towel imbibed in water or salicylic acid at 25°C for 24h. The seed were subsequently submitted to temperatures of 7oC and 25oC for another 24h in water or salicylic acid. Following each treatment, the seeds were transferred to mannitol solutions (0, -0.3, -0.6, and -1.2 MPa) and evaluated after seven days for germination, vigour, shoot and root length, dry mass, proline accumulation and protein electrophoretic profile. Treatments with salicylic acid and cold shock did not affect germination, but germination was reduced through the mannitol-induced progression of water deficit. However, both salicylic acid and cold shock treatments affected seed vigour. The application of salicylic acid increased root and total seedling length and dry weight, especially at intermediate water stress levels. Both salicylic acid and cold shock treatments changed the protein pattern of the treated seeds, but only SA showed promise as a technology for seed treatment.
TL;DR: A 5-year cotton-wheat rotation field experiment was conducted on two alkaline-calcareous soils to investigate the impact of integrated nutrient management and crop-residue incorporation on soil physical and hydrological properties.
Abstract: A 5-year cotton-wheat rotation field experiment was conducted on two alkaline-calcareous soils to investigate the impact of integrated nutrient-management and crop-residue incorporation on soil physical and hydrological properties. The nutrient treatments were: T1-farmers' fertilizer use; T2- balanced nutrient management (recommended N, P, Zn. and B from mineral sources); T3-integrated nutrient management, same as T2, except that 75% N was applied from fertilizer and 25% as FYM; and T4 same as T2, except that every alternate year, wheat was substituted by Berseem green manure. All treatments were compared with and without crop residue incorporation. Soil organic matter (SOM) content in both the soils was significantly increased with T2, T3 and T4 as compared with T1, and was increased further where the nutrient-management treatments were applied in combination with crop-residue recycling. Higher increase in SOM content was observed in soil having relatively lower initial SOM (0.61%) than soil having initial 0.80% SOM content. Increased SOM content, in return, decreased soil bulk density, improved macro- and meso-porosity, and enhanced percent recovery of stable aggregates correspondingly. Infiltration rates were 20, 49 and 26% higher with T2, T3 and T4, respectively, over T1 and 64% higher with crop-residue incorporation over crop-residue removal. Positive impacts on soil physical properties were also observed in the sub-soil layers.
TL;DR: The P i statistics and the results for those traits showed that UNB2U-C5 and hybrid P 1 x P 7 have the potential to be recommended as new alternatives for producers in the region.
Abstract: Three populations of popcorn from the Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro recurrent selection program (cycles C3, C4 and C5 from UNB2U), five simple hybrids provided by the Universidade Estadual de Maringa breeding program, five varieties (BRS Angela, UFVM-2 Barao de Vicosa, Vicosa, Beija-Flor and SAM) and three commercial hybrids (Zelia, Jade and IAC 112) were evaluated in five environments for their potential to be registered by the MAPA and recommended to producers in Northern and Northwestern Rio de Janeiro State. The experiment was arranged in a randomized block design, with three replications. The two main economic traits of the crops, grain yield (GY) and popping expansion (PE), were assessed. In the joint analysis of variance, significant differences were observed using the F test for the GY and PE traits. Regarding the genotype x environment interaction, only the GY was significant, thus revealing that the cultivar behavior varies according to the environment. The Pi statistics and the results for those traits showed that UNB2U-C5 and hybrid P1 x P7 have the potential to be recommended as new alternatives for producers in the region.
TL;DR: In this article, two hundred and forty-two full-sib families were obtained from CIMMYT and Piranao populations and evaluated in a simple lattice design in two environments to estimate the response to selection in the 11 th cycle of the UENF reciprocal recurrent selection program.
Abstract: The continuous gains in cycles of recurrent selection have raised disagreement among researchers. Two hundred and forty-two full-sib families were obtained from CIMMYT and Piranao populations and evaluated in a simple lattice design in two environments to estimate the response to selection in the 11 th cycle of the UENF reciprocal recurrent selection program. No genotype x environment interaction was observed for most of the traits evaluated, indicating that a single recurrent selection program can be conducted for both sites. The population studied exhibited wide genotypic variability and heritability estimates ranged from 33 to 73%, indicating prospects of selection gain for the following cycles. The predicted genetic gain in yield was 12.90%. It is possible to conclude that the populations studied may be promising for the achievement of new selection cycles, which provides a continuous concentration of favorable alleles and the production of hybrids for the North and Northwest regions of the state of Rio de Janeiro.
TL;DR: In this article, four formulations of gabiroba jam were processed, and their physicochemical and functional characteristics, rheological profile and jam acceptance were assessed using ABTS + and DPPH methods.
Abstract: Four formulations of gabiroba jam were processed, and their physicochemical and functional characteristics, rheological profile and jam acceptance were assessed. The physicochemical and chemical characteristics evaluated were water activity, titratable acidity, pH, reducing and non-reducing sugars, proteins, ashes, dietary fibers, color, and firmness. For functional analyses of the formulations, vitamin C, phenolic compounds and carotenoid contents were determined. The ABTS + and DPPHmethods were employed to evaluate the antioxidant potential. Rheological analysis was performed in a HAAKE RS 75 Rheoestress rheometer with a plate/plate sensor. The flow curve behavior was adjusted using the Power Law and Herschel-Bulkley models. Sensory analyses were performed by 52 untrained testers using a 9-point structured hedonic scale. The content of total phenolic compounds in the jam was between 322.09 and 728.48 mg 100 g -1 . The variation of vitamin C content was 97.39 to 123.39 mg 100 g -1 . The samples also showed good retention of beta carotene. All samples showed a higher storage modulus (G') than loss (G") Thsensory evaluation revealed a satisfactory acceptance of the gabiroba jam formulations.
TL;DR: In this article, the relationship between root morphology and nutrient use efficiencies for both nutrients was investigated in maize inbred lines and the shoot and root morphology traits were associated with the acquisition efficiency of both N and P in all of the environments that were evaluated.
Abstract: This study had three objectives: i) to observe maize inbred lines response to nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) acquisition as well as their utilization efficiencies and traits of root morphology in contrasting levels of these nutrients, ii) to study the relationship between root morphology and nutrient use efficiencies for both nutrients, and iii) to identify contrasting parents with components N and P use efficiency for an inheritance study. We evaluated 15 inbred lines in two experiments conducted in contrasting conditions of N and P. We evaluated the shoot, root traits and nutritional efficiencies and observed the genetic variability for most traits. Selection can be practiced for most of these traits in specific environments. Under conditions of nutritional stress, average and heritability estimates were of lesser magnitude. In this study, the shoot and root morphology traits were shown to be associated with the acquisition efficiency of both N and P in all of the environments that were evaluated.
TL;DR: In this paper, an experiment was conducted from October 2008 to December 2009 to characterize the phenological stages, fruit set and fruit yield of apples grown under a semi-arid climate in northeastern Brazil.
Abstract: Phenological observations are some of the most sensitive data for the identification of plant species growth in regional climate conditions. Thus, an experiment was conducted from October 2008 to December 2009 to characterize the phenological stages, fruit set and fruit yield of Princesa apples grown under a semiarid climate in northeastern Brazil. Phenological data (stages) were determined in the orchard by daily observations from bud breaking until fruit ripening. The following variables were evaluated: i) fruit set, which is the relation between the number of flowers and the number of fruits (%); ii) the number of fruit per plant; iii) the fruit production per plant (kg); and iv) the fruit yield (t ha -1 ). Under semiarid conditions, the phenological cycle of Princesa apples is completed in 123 days and that it is possible to obtain apple yield under semiarid conditions with the pollinator cultivar. Furthermore, additional studies and more evaluation years are necessary to generate an apple production system that is reliable under semiarid conditions.
TL;DR: The grafted plantlets were superior for almost all of the characteristics assessed, which suggests that it is possible to propagate conilon coffee trees.
Abstract: The purpose of this study was to assess the growth of conilon coffee tree plantlets that were propagated by grafting and cutting. The experiment was conducted at the plantlet production site of Incaper's Experimental Farm in the city of Marilândia, Espirito Santo State. For grafting, plantlets derived from the seed propagation of Coffea canephora cv. Robusta Tropical (ENCAPER 8151) were used as rootstocks, and six clones of cv. Conilon Vitoria (INCAPER 8142) were used as the grafts. The cutting was performed with six clones that were used for grafting. The experimental design consisted of randomized blocks of twelve treatments with five repetitions composed of twelve plantlets. On the hundred and fifth day, the averages of the variables were assessed and compared by the Scheffe test at a probability of 5%. The grafted plantlets were superior for almost all of the characteristics assessed, which suggests that it is possible to propagate conilon coffee trees.
TL;DR: A model that relates the seeds’ vigor, as determined in the laboratory, with field emergence is established and the regression model included the sand emergence speed, germination speed index and index of sand emerged speed as the variables that best correlated with field emerged.
Abstract: The objective of this study was to compare tests used to identify vigor in soybean seeds and to establish a model that relates the seeds' vigor, as determined in the laboratory, with field emergence. Five soybean cultivars were evaluated based on their germination, sand emergence, immersion in sodium hypochlorite, accelerated aging, controlled deterioration, cold test, seedling growth, electrical conductivity, tetrazolium, emergence percentage, seedling length in the field and seedling dry weight. The experimental design was completely randomized and means were compared by the Tukey test at 5% probability. Assays for accelerated aging, controlled deterioration and tetrazolium showed the closest correlation to field emergence. The regression model included the sand emergence speed, germination speed index and index of sand emergence speed as the variables that best correlated with field emergence.
TL;DR: In this article, the anatomical characteristics and chlorophyll content of L. purpurata were investigated during in vitro propagation when different concentrations of urea were applied, and the results indicated that this species has a tolerance to urea and exhibits higher growth in vitro.
Abstract: The environmental and nutritional conditions during plant growth can influence cell differentiation, resulting in anatomical and physiological adaptations. The objective of this study was to investigate the anatomical characteristics and chlorophyll content of L. purpurata during in vitro propagation when different concentrations of urea were applied. After 120 days of culture in a greenhouse, the growth characteristics, chlorophyll content, leaf anatomy and root features were assessed. Plants cultivated in a medium containing 75% urea exhibited modifications in their growth, increase in the number of leaves and roots, changes in the leaf and root dry matter content. There was an increase in the contents of “a” and “b” chlorophyll in plants treated with 50, 75 and 100% urea. An increase in the ratio of chlorophyll a to chlorophyll b (“a/b”) was observed in plants treated with 25% urea compared with the controls. In plants treated with 75% urea, increases in the thicknesses of the mesophyll and the leaf blade were observed, and reductions in the number of layers of root cells, the velamen thickness, the exodermis and the vascular cylinder were observed. These results indicate that this species has a tolerance to urea and exhibits higher growth in vitro .
TL;DR: The genetic profiles of the hybrids from each test cross were very diverse, most likely due to the high heterozygosity of the genome of each progenitor involved, which might indicate the presence of adequate genetic diversity among the hybrids to allow for the selection of new cultivars with agronomic traits that are more suitable to environmental conditions in Brazil.
Abstract: The strawberry is an important agricultural crop in Brazil. However, most of the commercial genotypes currently in cultivation in Brazil were developed in other countries with environmental adaptations often inadequate for the regional conditions. In this work, inter-simple sequence repeat markers were used to determine the genetic variability and the loci segregation profiles of 84 strawberry hybrids obtained from a genetic breeding program at the 'Empresa de Pesquisa Agropecuaria de Minas Gerais.' The hybrids were produced from crosses involving the following progenitors: 'Toyonoka' x 'Sweet Charlie', 'Camino Real' x 'Sweet Charlie', 'Oso Grande' x 'Sweet Charlie', 'Oso Grande' x 'Toyonoka', 'Dover' x 'Oso Grande', and 'Camino Real' x 'Toyonoka'. Fourteen genotypes were randomly sampled for each hybrid combination and evaluated. The results showed that the genetic profiles of the hybrids from each test cross were very diverse, most likely due to the high heterozygosity of the genome of each progenitor involved, which might indicate the presence of adequate genetic diversity among the hybrids to allow for the selection of new cultivars with agronomic traits that are more suitable to environmental conditions in Brazil.
TL;DR: In this article, the effects of immersion in solutions of gibberellic acid (GA3) during two exposure times (24 and 48 hours), associated with the removal or maintenance of the opercular tegument, as well as the effect of the associations between GA3 (2000 mg L-1), indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) and benzylaminopurine (BAP) and the repeated applications of combinations of these phytoregulators.
Abstract: The macaw palm is a tropical palm with significant potential for biofuel production; however, seed dormancy is a major factor limiting its agro-industrial use. The present study evaluated the effects of phytoregulators in overcoming macaw palm seed dormancy. We evaluated the effects of immersion in solutions of gibberellic acid (GA3) (0, 2000 and 5000 mg L-1) during two exposure times (24 and 48 hours), associated with the removal or maintenance of the opercular tegument, as well as the effects of the associations between GA3 (2000 mg L-1), indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) and benzylaminopurine (BAP) and the effects of repeated applications (one, two or five) of combinations of these phytoregulators. The seeds were sown in vermiculite and incubated in a humid growth chamber at 95 ± 5% relative humidity and 30°C for 18 weeks in all experiments. GA3 application and removal of the opercular tegument had positive effects on germination, but no significant differences were observed in immersion times for this phytoregulator. The application of IBA and BAP did not influence germination. The application of GA3 on five separate occasions gave the best results, with 41% germination at the end of the experiment.
TL;DR: The functional and numerical responses, reproductive characteristics, and viability of Campoletis flavicincta as well as the mortality after parasitism of the host Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) were analyzed in the laboratory as mentioned in this paper.
Abstract: The functional and numerical responses, reproductive characteristics, and viability of Campoletis flavicincta (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae) as well as the mortality after parasitism of the host Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) were analyzed in the laboratory. Campoletis flavicincta pairs were maintained until female death with 10, 20, 30, 40, or 50 caterpillars day -1 of the host S. frugiperda. A type III functional response curve was fitted to the average number of caterpillars supplied per day during the female wasp lifespan, as the explanatory variable. The handling time was 0.5940 0.0875h, and the instantaneous search 0.0047 0.0020 h -1 . The functional response for each of the first five days of the host was a type III. The longevity at the five host densities and the parasitism rate showed a significant linear decrease with the host density. The offspring production showed an increasing quadratic variation with increased host density. The production of females by C. flavicincta, the offspring sex ratio, the viability of the parasitoid pupae and the percentage of mortality of S. frugiperda caterpillars were not affected by host density. The functional and numerical responses of C. flavicincta indicate that this parasitoid could be a candidate for biological control of S. frugiperda.
TL;DR: In this paper, an evaluation of immature tassel explants in relation to embryogenic callus production and plant regeneration in South Brazilian maize genotypes for their use in genetic transformation experiments is presented.
Abstract: Somatic embryogenesis and in vitro plant regeneration are fundamental processes in the obtainment of transgenic maize plants. Explant, genotype and culture medium are determining factors in these processes. Immature embryo explants and the American Hi-II genotype have been widely employed to acquire genetically modified plants in this species. However, the use of more readily available explants is desired as well as the development of genetic transformation protocols for productive genotypes adapted to local conditions. This study provides an evaluation of immature tassel explants in relation to embryogenic callus production and plant regeneration in South Brazilian maize genotypes for their use in genetic transformation experiments. Immature tassels from 5 hybrids were cultivated in different callus-induction media. The frequency and the fresh mass of embryogenic calli were evaluated. The frequency was influenced by genotype, and the fresh mass was influenced by genotype and culture medium. In plant regeneration, shoots, complete seedlings and acclimatized and fertile plants were quantified. Treatments producing long term embryogenic calli from immature tassels of South Brazilian genotypes with the capacity to regenerate were identified.
TL;DR: The aim of this work was to ascertain the post-harvest preservation of Crimson Giant radishes with the following conditions: stored at room temperature with or without leaves, or stored at a refrigeration temperature of 5oC and 90% RH with leaves, without leaves or minimally processed.
Abstract: The aim of this work was to ascertain the post-harvest preservation of Crimson Giant radishes with the following conditions: 1) stored at room temperature (20 ± 2°C and 75% relative humidity; RH) with or without leaves; or 2) stored at a refrigeration temperature of 5oC and 90% RH with leaves, without leaves or minimally processed. For radishes stored at room temperature, evaluations were made at 0, 1 and 3 days. For radishes stored at a refrigeration temperature, evaluations were made at 0, 1, 3 and 6 days. The parameters evaluated included weight loss, pulp firmness, soluble solids, pH, and titratable acidity. At room temperature (20 ± 2°C and 75% RH), the radish bulbs with and without leaves had weight losses exceeding 5% after one day of storage, which rendered these radishes unmarketable. Minimally processed radish bulbs can be stored for more than six days at a temperature of 5oC, and non-processed radishes stored with and without leaves at the same temperature should not be stored for more than one day.
TL;DR: In this paper, the effects of glyphosate on photosynthetic processes in coffee were evaluated in a greenhouse using three varieties of coffee (Coffea arabica), including Acaia, Catucai Amarelo (2 SL) and Topazio (MG-1190), and three subdoses of glyphosate (0.0, 115.2 and 460.8 g ha-1).
Abstract: Farmers use non-selective herbicides, such as glyphosate, in directed applications to control weeds in coffee crops. Despite the precautions used during the application of herbicides, there are usually reports of poisoning in plantation areas. Moreover, it is fundamental to understand the effects of glyphosate on photosynthetic processes. The present study aimed to evaluate the characteristics associated with the photosynthetic activity in coffee cultivars subjected to doses of glyphosate. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse using three varieties of coffee (Coffea arabica), including Acaia (MG-6851), Catucai Amarelo (2 SL) and Topazio (MG-1190), and three subdoses of glyphosate (0.0, 115.2 and 460.8 g ha-1) in a 3 x 3 factorial scheme. Herbicide application led to reduced internal carbon, ratio between internal and environmental carbon, carbon consumption and photosynthetic rate at 15 days after application (DAA) in the fourth leaf. In the same leaf at 45 DAA, the carbon consumption of the cultivars was even less. Despite low carbon concentrations, no difference in consumption and photosynthetic rate was observed in the last leaf. Glyphosate caused metabolic damage with transitory effects on the photosynthetic rate; the Acaia cultivar was the most tolerant. These transitory effects may result in irreversible and prolonged damage to crop growth.
TL;DR: In this paper, the contents of glucosinolates in different Brassicas were determined in order to study their influence on feeding of cabbage stink bugs and the consequent extent of damage.
Abstract: In 2010, we were determining the contents of glucosinolates in different Brassicas in order to study their influence on feeding of cabbage stink bugs (Eurydema spp.) and the consequent extent of damage. We confirmed that glucosinolates content depends on plant species, plant organs and the time of sampling. In the samples aliphatic glucosinolates (glucoiberin, progoitrin, epiprogoitrin, epiprogoitrin, sinigrin, gluconapin, glucoraphenin, sinalbin) prevailed. Glucobrassicin, an important indolic glucosinolate compound, was detected in all tested Brassicas. Its concentration in the oil radish samples was highest during the first assessment (30 DAS), 8.84 ± 0.65 μmol g -1 ds, while the oilseed rape samples displayed lowest concentration during the last assessment (134 DAS), 4.30 ± 0.80 μmol g -1 ds. The stimulative activity of individual glucosinolates or their negative influence on feeding of cabbage stink bugs in the Brassicas used in our experiment was not uniformly manifested. Based on a two-year field experiment we concluded that oil rape was the most adequate trap crop used to allure cabbage stink bugs. In future, glucosinolates should be employed to a greater extent in environmentally acceptable ways of food production, one of which is also the use of trap crops in order to reduce harmful effects of cabbage stink bugs.