pThe timing of planting is important, as it defines the productive potential of a crop. Among planting-related factors, delayed emergence has received less attention compared with stand loss and seed spatial distribution. Some studies suggest that temporal unevenness in emergence may be more detrimental than spatial unevenness. Thus, the objective of this study was to determine the effect of delayed emergence on delayed and adjacent plants. Two experiments, arranged in randomized blocks, were conducted in a commercial area in 2018 and 2019, with one third of the plants (33%) sown with delays of 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 days. Delayed and adjacent plants were evaluated separately. In both years, delayed plants showed etiolation, characterized by increased ear insertion height and reduced stem diameter. Adjacent plants exhibited an increase in stem diameter but no change in ear insertion height. Delayed plants demonstrated a linear reduction in all yield components in both years, resulting in a 6.6% (2018) and 8.1% (2019) reduction in yield for each day of delayed emergence. Adjacent plants showed a compensatory response only in 2019, with a linear increase of 1.7% in yield for each day of delayed emergence. In both years, tolerance of up to two days of delayed emergence was observed; beyond this point, the reduction in average yield becomes linear, ranging from 1.6% to 2.1% for each additional day of delay.
Bovine leukemia virus (BLV) is an oncogenic retrovirus belonging to the subfamily Orthoretrovirinae and genus Deltaretrovirus. It is the etiological agent of enzootic bovine leukosis, an infectious disease that affects cow longevity and milk production, potentially leading to economic losses. Serological surveys provide valuable information on BLV circulation in dairy cattle herds. This study evaluated the serological profile of BLV infection in high-yield dairy cattle herds in the Central-Eastern mesoregion of Paran & aacute; State, Southern Brazil. Whole-blood samples were collected from 628 lactating cows in 43 dairy cattle herds between October 2019 and January 2020. Serum samples were stored at -80 degrees C until processing. Serological tests were performed using a commercially available ELISA kit to detect antibodies against glycoprotein 51 (gp51) in the BLV envelope. Herds were considered positive when at least one cow tested positive for anti-gp51 antibodies. The data obtained were categorized by type of management (intensive and semi-intensive) and the number of lactating cows per herd (<100, 100-200, and >200) and subjected to statistical analyses using chi-square and odds ratio tests at a 95% confidence level. Notably, all 43 (100.0%) evaluated herds were seropositive for BLV, with 10 herds (23.3%) showing 100% positivity in the evaluated cows. Of the sampled cows, 82% (515/628) were seropositive for BLV. The results of the statistical analyses for both factors were compared with the frequency of seropositive cows. Herds with 100-200 lactating cows exhibited a higher chance of being positive than those with <100 or >200 lactating cows. Moreover, herds under intensive management practices showed a 1.87-times greater chance of becoming infected with BLV than those under semi-intensive management. The serological survey results indicated that BLV infection is endemic in the Central-Eastern mesoregion of Paran & aacute; State. Enzootic bovine leukosis is a clinically silent retroviral disease, with overt clinical manifestations occurring only sporadically. Nevertheless, BLV infection is associated with reduced animal productivity and significant economic losses. Therefore, only coordinated actions to raise awareness among all stakeholders in the dairy production chain regarding the epidemiological importance of BLV and its routes of transmission will help to reduce the prevalence of seropositive animals and herds in endemic regions.
Soluble peptides derived from bovine cartilage and intestinal mucosa (Peptipro®) are obtained through enzymatic hydrolysis as byproducts of heparin and chondroitin extraction. This hydrolysis releases bioactive compounds and results in a highly digestible product. This study aimed to identify the bioactive peptides present in Peptipro® and evaluate the effects of its dietary inclusion on the growth performance and intestinal health of weaned piglets, compared with diets containing spray-dried bovine plasma (BP) used in nursery feeding. Peptipro® was subjected to peptide sequencing using mass spectrometry. The performance trial was conducted in a randomized block design with a 3 × 2 factorial arrangement and ten replicates. The factors included diet and sex of the piglets, while blocks were defined based on their initial body weight (BW). The experimental diets were as follows: BP: 6% and 3% spray-dried BP in Pre-initial I (first week) and II (second week) phases, respectively; Partial replacement of BP with Peptipro® (BP–Pep): 3% spray-dried BP and 3% Peptipro® in Pre-initial I phase, and 1.5% of each in Pre-initial II phase; and Peptipro®: 3% and 1.5% Peptipro® in Pre-initial I and II phases, respectively. During Initial I (third week) and Initial II (last 18 days) phases, all experimental groups received the same diet. A total of 120 piglets (6.92 ± 0.77 kg BW), comprising 60 immunocastrated males and 60 females, were distributed in 30 pens with four animals per pen and fed ad libitum for 39 days. In total, 176 peptides were identified in Peptipro®, of which 71 exhibited bioactive functions related to energy metabolism regulation (74.6%), blood pressure regulation (63.4%), and antioxidative activity (8.4%), immunomodulation (2.8%), and other metabolic processes (4.2%). Intestinal permeability, assessed using fluorescein isothiocyanate-dextran (FITC-dextran), was not affected by diet (P = 0.308). In the Pre-initial II phase, Peptipro® diet increased the average daily gain by 12.8% compared with the BP–Pep diet (0.397 vs. 0.352 kg animal−1 day−1; P = 0.044), without affecting feed intake (0.444 kg animal−1 day−1, on average; P = 0.198), resulting in a better feed conversion ratio (1.08 vs. 1.25 kg feed kg−1 gain; P = 0.001). Fecal score was not influenced by diet, sex, or their interactions (P > 0.05), with mean relative frequencies of 51.5, 35.5, and 13.0% for normal, pasty, and liquid feces, respectively. Owing to its favorable amino acid profile, the presence of broad spectrum of bioactive peptides, and its positive effects on animal performance, Peptipro® can replace spray-dried BP in pre-starter diets for nursery piglets.
Toxoplasma gondii is a zoonotic parasite that can infect mammals and birds, posing a risk to human health. It can cause reproductive disorders in small ruminants. Neospora caninum affects ruminants, especially cattle, and causes abortions; however, studies have also reported reproductive alterations in sheep and goats. The aim of this study was to investigate the seroprevalence and epidemiological aspects of infection by T. gondii and N. caninum in goats in northern Paraná, Brazil. Blood samples were collected from 321 animals on eight goat farms in northern Paraná. IgG anti-T. gondii antibodies were analyzed using an indirect fluorescence antibody test (IFA), with cutoff points of 64 for T. gondii and 50 for N. caninum. Of the 321 animals analyzed, 110 (34.3%) were seropositive for T. gondii and 33 (10.3%) were seropositive for N. caninum. Eight farms (100%) were seropositive for T. gondii and seven (87.5%) were seropositive for N. caninum. Statistically significant associations were observed between seropositivity for T. gondii and a history of abortions and the presence of cats on the property. Investigation of the seroprevalence of T. gondii and N. caninum is essential for implementing measures to control and prevent toxoplasmosis and neosporosis in Northern Paraná.
This study aimed to develop predictive equations for bodyweight (BW) in fat-type (lard-type) pigs raised under extensive or semi-extensive systems, and to determine the most significant morphometric predictors. Data were collected from 240 pigs (122 males and 118 females) on smallholder farms, with BW ranging from 4.7 to 68.0 kg. The following traits were recorded: body weight (BW), carcass length (CL), thoracic circumference (TC), hip circumference (HC), withers height (WH), and hip height (HH). Descriptive statistics (means, standard deviations, coefficients of variation, and maximum values) were calculated separately for each sex. Pearson's correlation coefficients indicated that all morphometric measurements were strongly correlated with BW (r >= 0.90) in both sexes. Data were tested for normality (Cramer-von Mises), and male and female datasets were analyzed separately using stepwise multiple linear regression. The resulting sex-specific equations were compared using an F test, with no differences detected between males and females (P = 0.376) Therefore, a single pooled equation was considered sufficientto explain BW variation in both sexes: BW =-35.51 + 0.80 & times; TC + 0.11 & times; CL (R-2 = 0.93; P<0.0001). To assess practical applicability, the general equation was validated using CL and TC data from an independent set of 53 pigs (BW = 6.5-42.8 kg) not included in model development. Predicted and observed values were highly correlated (r = 0.96), indicating strong predictive performance. These findings demonstrate that CL and TC are sufficient to accurately predict BW in fat-type pigs, providing a practical tool for small-scale producers who lack access to weighing scales.
This study assessed the availability, nutritional quality, and economic accessibility of eco-labeled animal-based products and plant-based analogues within the urban food environment. A crosssectional audit of 149 retail establishments in the city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, was conducted between July 2022 and June 2023, stratified by the Social Progress Index (& Iacute;ndice de Progresso Social-IPS). In total, 1,643 eco-labeled protein-rich foods (animal-based products and plant-based analogues) were evaluated for availability, price, and macronutrient composition. Multivariate factor analysis (MFA) and principal component analysis (PCA) were used to examine the relationships between product availability, geographic regions, and IPS levels, while chi-square and G tests compared product categories (p <= 0.05). The results indicated that IPS accounted for 86.8% of the variance in product availability, suggesting that socio-spatial segregation is strongly associated with differences in access to sustainable protein-rich foods. Plant-based products were on average 71% more expensive than their animal-based counterparts. Among plant-based products, burgers emerged as the most prevalent item in the segment, whereas certified chicken was the most prevalent within the animal-based category. The nutritional composition of plant-based products showed advantages, including higher dietaryfiber content, absence of cholesterol, and a more favorable lipid profile, but also limitations, such as lower protein content and elevated sodium levels. The unequal concentration of ecolabeled protein-rich foods reinforces disparities in access to innovative and sustainable foods. The protein transition in Brazil is unlikely to occur solely through market forces; targeted public policies will be necessary to overcome structural barriers related to price, distribution, and consumer information within sustainable food systems.
Weed resistance to herbicides, especially glyphosate, has made their management difficult in soybean crops. One alternative is the use of pre-emergent herbicides. However, even when recommended for the crop, selectivity depends on several factors, including the soybean cultivar. In this sense, the objective of this work was to evaluate the sensitivity of different soybean cultivars to the herbicide metribuzin. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse in a completely randomized design with four replications, in a 19 x 3 factorial arrangement. Factor A consisted of 19 soybean cultivars. Factor B consisted of three doses of metribuzin; zero, 480 g a.i. ha-1, and 960 g a.i. ha-1. The variables evaluated were: phytotoxicity, quantum efficiency of PSII (Fv/Fm), effective efficiency of PSII (YII), relative electron transport rate (rETR), plant height, and shoot dry mass (SDM). Data were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) (p < 0.05) and means were compared using the Scott-Knott test (p < 0.05). A significant interaction was observed between the factors soybean cultivar and metribuzin dose. The herbicide metribuzin caused negative alterations in the physiological and growth characteristics of the plants, demonstrating the phytotoxicity of the herbicide in some soybean cultivars, especially at the highest dose evaluated. The cultivars M 5917, M 6130 I2X, M 6301 I2X, and NS 5252 I2X showed greater tolerance to metribuzin.
Feline immunodeficiencyvirus (FIV) and feline leukemia virus (FeLV) are retroviruses that affect domestic cats (Felis catus) worldwide and are associated with diseases such as lymphoma and leukemia and immunosuppression, potentially compromising both the quality of life and life expectancy of these animals. A total of 463 serum samples from domestic cats, collected between 2022 and 2024 from veterinary hospitals and clinics in the city of Uberl & acirc;ndia, Minas Gerais, Brazil, were subjected to lateral flow immunochromatographic testing for the detection of antibodies against FIV and FeLV antigens (p27). The seroprevalence of FIV and frequency of FeLV antigenemia in the evaluated population were 6.91% (32/463) and 21.38% (99/463), respectively. For FIV, the only statistically significant association was with sex, as males were 2.83 times more likelyto be infected than females, and coinfection with FIV and FeLV was predominantly observed in males, who accounted for 78.95% (13/17) of the coinfected animals, suggesting a greater susceptibility of males to multiple infections. Mixed-breed cats had higher infection rates, highlighting the influence of environmental and management factors. FIV was more prevalent in older cats, whereas FeLV was predominant in younger and adult cats. The occurrence of FIV infection was lower than that reported in previous studies conducted in other regions of Brazil, whereas the prevalence of FeLV infection was consistent with the findings in the scientific literature, reinforcing the high rate of FeLV infection among domestic cats in Brazil. The accurate identification of infected animals enables epidemiological assessment to support the development of control and prevention strategies for viral dissemination.
This study aimed to determine whether body condition score (BCS), mare weight and age, and foal sex influence passive immunity transfer and the productive performance of foals from birth to weaning. The experiment was conducted at a commercial stud farm in northern Minas Gerais, Brazil, using 34 Mangalarga Marchador mares and their respective foals. The experimental design was completely randomized. The mares were observed on the day of foaling to record the foals' birth, assess colostrum intake and quality, and measure weight using a tape measure, as well as to evaluate physiological parameters in the newborns. Passive immunity transfer from mare to foal was analyzed using the rapid "IgG Check" test. Foals were assessed monthly for weight and morphometric measurements during the first five months of life. Data were subjected to ANOVA, and means were compared using the F test or regression analysis, with adjustments to linear and quadratic models (P<0.05). All analyses were performed using SAS software at a 5% probability level. No effect (P >= 0.05) of the evaluated parameters was observed on passive immunity transfer or physiological parameters of foals at birth. However, mare BCS affected (P<0.05) height at the withers and rump length at birth. Mare BCS did not influence (P >= 0.05) morphometric measurements of foals at weaning. Foal sex affected height at the withers, shoulder length, and rump length at weaning. It was concluded that the evaluated factors did not influence passive immunity transfer; however, foal sex and mare BCS influenced foal growth up to five months of age.
Zinc (Zn) is an essential micronutrient in plant metabolism and is involved in the enzyme activation and synthesis of growth hormones such as indole-3-acetic acid. Although required in small amounts, the low availability of Zn in Brazilian soils limits soybean productivity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of different foliar Zn doses (0, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 L ha(-1)) applied at two reproductive stages (R1 and R5.1) on morpho-agronomic traits, yield components, and grain yield of soybean. Experiments were conducted during two growing seasons (2022/23 and 2024/25) using a randomized complete block design with four replicates. The evaluated variables included the number of pods (NP), number of grains per plant (NG), thousand-grain weight (TGW), and grain yield (YLD). Significant effects of various Zn doses were observed for NG, TGW, and YLD, with quadratic responses indicating an optimal range of 0.75(-1).06 L ha(-1) for yield maximization. Although application timing alone was not statistically significant, foliar Zn application at the R5.1 stage showed greater biological responsiveness than at R1, likely because of higher Zn demand and utilization during grain filling. Correlation analysis revealed that in the 2022/23 season, yield was strongly associated with NP and NG (r > 0.85), whereas in 2024/25, TGW contributed more to yield formation. These findings highlight the importance of foliar Zn application during advanced reproductive stages, particularly R5.1, as a strategyto optimize Zn-use efficiency and enhance soybean yield in high-performance production systems.
The objectives of this study were to establish, by ultrasonography, values of the width of the penile urethral lumen of Dorper & times; Santa Ines lambs, verify the effects of age and Dorper cross degree, and compare two types of linear probes. Forty healthy, uncastrated lambs (18 1/2 Dorper and 22 3/4 Dorper) kept confined for fattening were studied. Ultrasonographic examinations were performed at 60 (beginning of confinement period), 120, and 150 days of age (end of confinement period). The penile urethra was examined at four sites: the proximal urethra (perineal region), sigmoid flexure (caudal aspect of the base of the scrotum), distal to the sigmoid flexure (cranial aspect of the base of the scrotum), and distal urethra (half the distance between the glans and the base of the scrotum). Images were acquired in B-mode with transcutaneous cross sections using two types of linear probes: for external use (13 MHz) and for transrectal use in large animals (10 MHz). The urethral lumen width was measured at each anatomical site. Data were analyzed using two-way repeated measures ANOVA. Genetic factors did not influence the results. The image definition was lower for the probe for rectal use. The urethra was identified as a circular or elliptical structure with an anechoic lumen and slightly hyperechoic wall. Urethral width increased with age in the proximal urethra (P = 0.038), distal to the sigmoid flexure (P = 0.013), and in the distal urethra (P < 0.001), but not in the sigmoid flexure (P = 0.056). The effect of the type of probe used was confirmed at the four anatomical sites examined (P < 0.001), with higher values measured using the probe for rectal use. With the probe for external use, the lumen width ranged 0.5-2.0 mm in the proximal urethra, 0.6-1.9 mm in the sigmoid flexure, 0.7-2.0 mm distal to the sigmoid flexure, and 0.7-2.1 mm in the distal urethra. With the probe for rectal use, the values were 0.6-2.3, 0.8-2.2, 0.7-2.1, and 0.8-2.5 mm, respectively. Ultrasound examination of the penile urethra of Dorper & times; Santa Ines lambs is feasible, and the values obtained for lumen width can be accepted as a parameter for comparison. This examination can be performed using a linear probe for rectal use in large animals.
Melons and cucumbers are sensitive to the allelopathic effects of certain weeds, which can affect their germination, development, and productivity. Among these weeds, horseweed (Conyza sp.) stands out for its ability to interfere with several economically important crops, and is difficult to control because of its tolerance to glyphosate. Considering the importance of melon and cucumber production, and their competitive interactions with weeds, these crops require special attention from germination to harvest, mainly because of their susceptibility to competition. This study aimed to identify the effects of an aqueous extract of horseweed leaves (Conyza bonariensis) on seed germination and seedling development of melon and cucumber under laboratory and greenhouse conditions. The percentage of abnormal plants, seed germination rate, and biometric traits such as root and shoot lengths, seedling dry mass, and hypocotyl length were evaluated under different extract concentrations (1:5, 1:10, 1:15, and 1:20 v/v). The results indicated that horseweed extract increased both the germination percentage and growth of the root and shoot systems of melon seedlings in both environments. The findings demonstrated that both the environment (laboratory and greenhouse) and species influenced the response to the aqueous extract. The horseweed extract exhibited a variable effect: in some cases, it stimulated germination while reducing seedling growth, whereas in others, it reduced germination but stimulated growth. Thisvariation is mainlyattributed to environmental effects, genotypic differences, and their interactions. Furthermore, extract concentration played a significant role, as lower concentrations stimulated while higher concentrations inhibited the development of melon and cucumber seedlings.
To meet the growing demand for beef, various technologies have been adopted to improve cattle performance and feed efficiency, such as intensive systems and dietary additives. This study evaluated the productive performance of feedlot-finished steers with yeast culture (Saccharomyces cerevisiae), either combined with or without sodium monensin in their diet. The 140-day experiment used 240 1/2 Angus x 1/2 Nellore steers from the same herd. The steers were 13.8 +/- 1.0 months of age and had 421 +/- 5 kg initial body weight. The completely randomized experimental design consisted of two treatments and six repetitions, with each repetition represented by a pen containing 20 animals. The treatments were (1) diet with sodium monensin (250 mg animal-1 day-1), and (2) diet with yeast culture plus sodium monensin (7 g animal-1 day-1 + 250 mg animal-1 day-1). The diets consisted of a mixture of 40% corn silage and 60% concentrate, provided ad libitum. Using yeast culture combined with sodium monensin promoted higher average weight gain (1.324 vs. 1.083 kg day-1) and consequently higher body weight at slaughter (565.3 vs. 537.6 kg) and hot carcass weight (312.6 vs. 296.8 kg) compared to the diet with only sodium monensin. Furthermore, adding yeast culture to the diet promoted greater carcass gain (103.7 vs. 85.3 kg) and higher average daily carcass gain (0.947 vs. 0.819 kg day-1) than the treatment with sodium monensin alone. The addition of yeast culture combined with sodium monensin to the diet increased the average daily gain by 22.2% and the daily carcass gain by 15.6%, so it is recommended for finishing steers in a feedlot.
The rusa deer (Rusa timorensis) is a tropical species native to Asia, now found in Brazil, Malaysia, Thailand, New Caledonia, Australia, and Mauritius. Reproductive studies, including ultramicroscopic analyses, are essential for understanding species-specific sperm morphology and addressing potential reproductive issues that may impact conservation efforts. In this study, two adult male rusa deer were sedated using a dart containing ketamine (2 mg/kg) and xylazine (1 mg/kg). Semen was collected by electroejaculation, and a 60 mu L aliquot of each sample was fixed in modified Karnovsky solution. The samples were sent for evaluation by scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy to observe the cell surface and internal structures. Head length and width, midpiece length, and tail length were measured at 8.68, 5.55, 13.89, and 36.69 mu m, respectively. The internal structures observed included the mitochondrial sheath, outer dense fibers, axoneme, nucleus, acrosome, and plasma membrane. These findings demonstrate that the spermatozoa of the rusa deer share structural similarities with those of other mammals, such as pigs, humans, and guinea pigs, while also exhibiting specific morphometric characteristics that may contribute to the development of effective conservation and assisted reproduction strategies. These results not only underscore the importance of preserving this species but also provide a foundation for future research aimed at optimizing reproductive techniques and maintaining genetic diversity in cervids.
Ficus carica L. is compatible with Brazil's soil and climatic conditions, making the country its largest producer in Latin America. Brazilian fig cultivation utilizes cutting propagation for plant multiplication; the Roxo de Valinhos cultivar is the most widely cultivated. Other fig accessions also have market value, such as the Turco cultivar, which is generally used as a rootstock. Vigorous seedlings are necessary for good fruit production; they can be obtained using growth regulators, such as indolebutyric acid (IBA; the most commonly used regulator in fruit production), to enhance rhizogenesis. However, natural products, such as coconut water (rich in auxins), are also viable for this purpose. In this study, we aimed to determine the most advantageous rooting stimulator for 'Turco' fig cuttings and verify whether the product used is related to the type of fig accession. Two consecutive experiments were conducted using a randomized block design. The first experiment included three treatments: powdered IBA; coconut water; and IBA solution at 6,000 mg L-1, conducted in the municipality of Dracena, SP; this was conducted to identify the best rooting agent to be used in the second experiment. The second experiment included eight treatments: accession 33; accession 34; accession 35; accession 47; accession 40; accession 41; accession 42; and accession 45, conducted in the municipality of Ilha Solteira, SP. Both experiments were conducted in a greenhouse with intermittent misting for 40 days. At the end of each experiment, the percentage of rooting, number of sprouts, length of the longest sprout, fresh and dry mass of the shoots and roots, and relative growth rate (RGR; obtained by measuring the cuttings' sprouts at 10-day intervals) were analyzed. Data were subjected to statistical analysis in SISVAR using Tukey's test at p <= 0.05; RGR data were adjusted using second-order polynomial regressions. The first experiment demonstrated that the use of coconut water resulted in 100% root growth for 'Turco' fig. The second experiment demonstrated that the utilization of coconut water depends on fig accession; results differ for each treatment, with accession 45 ('Turco') obtaining the best results. The other accessions obtained promising results, except for accession 33 and 41. Hence, coconut water is considered an effective rooting stimulator for fig cultivation.
Banana is a crop of great economic and socio-environmental importance, with significant losses occurring throughout the production chain, particularly during the post-harvest phase. The use of ozone has emerged as a promising and safe alternative to conventional chemical treatments to minimize these losses. This study aimed to evaluate the kinetic models of ozone reactions in water at different temperatures and to determine the effectiveness of immersion in ozonated water for controlling banana rot during storage. Five treatments were tested on the 'Nanic & atilde;o' banana variety: control (no immersion), immersion in water without ozone (two and three cycles), and immersion in ozonated water (two and three cycles). Each cycle lasted 15 min. After treatment, the fruits were stored for 9 days at 25 degrees C and 75% RH. The results showed that the highest ozone concentration and the longest half-life (117.6 min) were achieved at 15 degrees C. However, in the presence of bananas, the half-life was drastically reduced to only 0.9 min. No significant effect of ozonated water treatment was observed in controlling rot during storage. It is concluded that, although the ozone half-life is longer at 15 degrees C, the organic matter present in bananas substantially reduces this time, and immersion in ozonated water was not effective in controlling post-harvest rot.
Multifunctional rhizobacteria can enhance root development and contribute to crop grain yields. This study aimed to determine the effects of rhizobacteria on the root growth of soybean, common bean, maize, and upland rice seedlings. Separate experiments were conducted for each crop under controlled conditions using a completely randomized design with four treatments and ten replicates. The treatments across the four experiments involved seed microembolization with rhizobacteria isolates: 1. BRM 32111 (Burkholderia sp.), 2. BRM 63523 (Serratia sp.), 3. BRM 63524 (Bacillus sp.), and a control treatment (without microorganisms). Each experimental unit consisted of 500 mL plastic cups filled with soil and sand and planted with two seeds. After 14 days, the roots of the seedlings from the studied crops were removed from the cups, washed, and photographed using a digital camera. The images were analyzed using the WinRHIZO 2012 software to measure total root length, diameter, surface area, and root volume. Subsequently, the roots were placed in a drying oven and weighed to determine their dry mass. The study results indicate that multifunctional rhizobacteria promote greater initial root development in soybean, common bean, maize, and upland rice. The treatment with the BRM 63524 isolate resulted in the greatest total root length compared to the control treatment, standing out among the evaluated crops. Seedlings not inoculated with rhizobacteria tend to exhibit inferior root development compared to inoculated ones.
Growth characteristics, yield, chemical composition, and macro-and micronutrient contents of sweet forage cactus (Doce) were evaluated under three planting densities and two cutting intensities in the Brazilian Savanna. Acompletelyrandomizeddesignwasadoptedina2 & times; 3 factorialarrangementwith eight replications. Treatments consisted of two planting densities (single-row and double-row arrangements) and three cladode cutting intensities (matrix, primary, and secondary). Data were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA), and when the F-test indicated significance, means were compared using Tukey's test. Differences were considered significant at p < 0.05. The smallest cladode area (p < 0.05) and lowest plant height occurred under single-row planting with preservation of the matrix cladode. This treatment combination also resulted in higher dry matter content and lower mineral matter content (p < 0.05). Based on agronomic performance, yield, and chemical composition, forage cactus management should prioritize cutting intensities that preserve primary or secondary cladodes combined with double-row planting systems.
The combination of soybean seeds with low moisture content and treatment with phytosanitary products in seed germination assessment has led to inconsistent results in the rolled paper (RP) germination test. The premoistening technique, which involves slowly hydrating the seeds before the germination test, can be used to mitigate imbibitional injury in seeds with low moisture content. The rolled paper + vermiculite (RP+V) substrate, on the other hand, reduces the phytotoxicity of phytosanitary products. Therefore, this study aimed to assess whether premoistening is necessary when using the RP+V substrate. For this assessment, soybean seeds from a single lot were dried to different moisture contents and were then treated or not treated with phytosanitary products. The experiment was carried out in a 3 x 2 x 2 factorial arrangement, consisting of three seed moisture contents (12%, 10%, and 8%), two types of premoistening activity (with and without), and two substrates (RP and RP+V). Premoistening improved germination rates, especially for seeds with 8% moisture content. Without premoistening, RP+V enhanced seed-quality expression, possibly reducing imbibitional damage. In addition, RP+V resulted in a higher percentage of strong normal seedlings, signaling better initial development. It can be concluded that RP+V does not eliminate the need for premoistening, and both are effective practices in assessing the quality of low moisture content soybean seeds, even when they have been treated with phytosanitary products. This combination of techniques optimizes the germination test, ensuring more reliable results for assessing germination potential.
Rational irrigation management maximizes crop productivity, optimizes water-use efficiency as a production factor, and enhances economic indicators in irrigated areas. In this study, we determined the optimal economic water regime for cowpea production using economic indicators. The experiments were conducted at the Empresa Brasileira de Pesquisa Agropecu & aacute;ria experimental area in Teresina, PI, Brazil in 2021 and 2022. The treatments consisted of five irrigation depths, which were calculated as percentages of crop evapotranspiration and cumulative rainfall. Irrigation regimes were 227.90, 241.10, 274.40, 300.80, and 318.40 mmcycle(-1) in 2021 and 133.80, 191.70, 249.00, 303.00, and 357.00 mmcycle(-1) in 2022. Irrigation management operations accounted for the largest share of total and effective operational costs. Rainfall reduced electricity and irrigation management costs, particularly in 2021. Regimes exceeding 274.40 mmcycle(-1 )(2021) and 249.00 mmcycle(-1) (2022) increased yield, gross revenue, total and effective operational profits, benefit/cost ratio, profitability index, and breakeven price, despite higher total and effective production costs. The regimes of 300.80 mmcycle(-1) (2021) and 303.00 mmcycle(-1) (2022) were demonstrated to be the most economicallyviable for cowpea production.
