Characterization of the Bipolaris maydis: symptoms and pathogenicity in popcorn genotypes (Zea mays L. ) / Caracterização de Bipolaris maydis: sintomas e patogenicidade em genótipos de milho-pipoca (Zea mays L. )

Southern corn leaf blight (SCLB) is one of the most important corn leaf diseases. Appropriate management strategies and the use of resistant cultivars allow disease control. Therefore, knowing the aspects related to the pathogen and the response of hosts makes it possible to design efficient strategies for selecting genotypes resistant to this disease. In this sense, the objective was to carry out the Bipolaris maydis isolate characterization, evaluating the pathogenicity in different popcorn lines and the symptoms generated in the host after inoculation. The isolate characterization consisted of the macromorphological evaluation of the colonies and the micromorphological evaluation of the conidia in the PDA medium. An experiment was carried out in a greenhouse to evaluate the pathogenicity of the isolate, using 20 inbred lines of popcorn in a randomized block design with four replicates. Inoculation was carried out by spraying leaves, with a suspension containing 1.0 x 104 conidia.ml-1 of the CF/UENF 501 isolate of B. maydis. An incidence assessment and three assessments of disease symptom severity were performed, with seven days intervals between evaluations. The morphological characterization data of the isolate were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and for disease severity, the linear regression model was applied the first-degree model. The variance analysis was performed for the linear and angular coefficients obtained for each treatment. When a difference was found, the Scott-Knott clustering algorithm at 5% significance was applied. The isolate had gray-green colonies, a cottony appearance, and an irregular shape. The lines L353, L354, and L624 show more resistance at the beginning and throughout the evaluations. The high virulence of the CF/UENF 501 isolate made it possible to differentiate the lines in terms of disease intensity and the pattern of symptoms presented.

Mancha-de-Bipolaris é uma das mais importantes doenças foliares do milho. Estratégias de manejo adequadas e o uso de cultivar resistente permitem o controle da doença, mas para tanto, conhecer os aspectos associados ao patógeno e a resposta do hospedeiro é necessário para traçar estratégias eficientes para seleção de genótipos resistentes a essa doença. Neste sentido, objetivou-se realizar a caracterização do isolado de Bipolaris maydis avaliando a patogenicidade em diferentes linhagens de milho-pipoca e os sintomas gerados no hospedeiro a partir da inoculação. A caracterização do isolado consistiu na avaliação macromorfológica das colônias e micromofológica dos conídios em meio nutritivo BDA. Para avaliação da patogenicidade do isolado foi conduzido um experimento em casa de vegetação utilizando 20 linhagens endogâmicas de milho-pipoca, com delineamento em blocos casualizados, com quatro repetições. A inoculação foi realizada por meio de pulverização em folhas, com uma suspensão contendo 1,0 x 104 conídios.ml-1 do isolado CF/UENF 501 de B. maydis. Foi realizada uma avaliação de incidência e três avaliações de severidade dos sintomas da doença, com o intervalo de sete dias para cada avaliação. Os dados da caracterização morfológica do isolado foram analisados por meio da estatística descritiva e para severidade da doença foi aplicado o modelo de regressão linear de primeiro grau. Realizou-se a análise de variância para o coeficiente linear e angular obtido para cada tratamento e quando constatada diferença aplicou-se o agrupamento de médias de Scott-knott a 5% de significância. O isolado apresentou colônias com coloração cinza esverdeado, aspecto algodonoso e forma irregular. As linhagens L353 e L354 e L624 estão entre as linhagens que apresentaram maior resistência no inicio e ao longo das avaliações. A elevada virulência do isolado CF/UENF 501 possibilitou diferenciar as linhagens quanto a intensidade da doença, bem como o padrão dos sintomas apresentados.

Characterization of the Bipolaris maydis: symptoms and pathogenicity in popcorn genotypes (Zea mays L.)

Abstract Southern corn leaf blight (SCLB) is one of the most important corn leaf diseases. Appropriate management strategies and the use of resistant cultivars allow disease control. Therefore, knowing the aspects related to the pathogen and the response of hosts makes it possible to design efficient strategies for selecting genotypes resistant to this disease. In this sense, the objective was to carry out the Bipolaris maydis isolate characterization, evaluating the pathogenicity in different popcorn lines and the symptoms generated in the host after inoculation. The isolate characterization consisted of the macromorphological evaluation of the colonies and the micromorphological evaluation of the conidia in the PDA medium. An experiment was carried out in a greenhouse to evaluate the pathogenicity of the isolate, using 20 inbred lines of popcorn in a randomized block design with four replicates. Inoculation was carried out by spraying leaves, with a suspension containing 1.0 x 104 conidia.ml-1 of the CF/UENF 501 isolate of B. maydis. An incidence assessment and three assessments of disease symptom severity were performed, with seven days intervals between evaluations. The morphological characterization data of the isolate were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and for disease severity, the linear regression model was applied the first-degree model. The variance analysis was performed for the linear and angular coefficients obtained for each treatment. When a difference was found, the Scott-Knott clustering algorithm at 5% significance was applied. The isolate had gray-green colonies, a cottony appearance, and an irregular shape. The lines L353, L354, and L624 show more resistance at the beginning and throughout the evaluations. The high virulence of the CF/UENF 501 isolate made it possible to differentiate the lines in terms of disease intensity and the pattern of symptoms presented.

Resumo Mancha-de-Bipolaris é uma das mais importantes doenças foliares do milho. Estratégias de manejo adequadas e o uso de cultivar resistente permitem o controle da doença, mas para tanto, conhecer os aspectos associados ao patógeno e a resposta do hospedeiro é necessário para traçar estratégias eficientes para seleção de genótipos resistentes a essa doença. Neste sentido, objetivou-se realizar a caracterização do isolado de Bipolaris maydis avaliando a patogenicidade em diferentes linhagens de milho-pipoca e os sintomas gerados no hospedeiro a partir da inoculação. A caracterização do isolado consistiu na avaliação macromorfológica das colônias e micromofológica dos conídios em meio nutritivo BDA. Para avaliação da patogenicidade do isolado foi conduzido um experimento em casa de vegetação utilizando 20 linhagens endogâmicas de milho-pipoca, com delineamento em blocos casualizados, com quatro repetições. A inoculação foi realizada por meio de pulverização em folhas, com uma suspensão contendo 1,0 x 104 conídios.ml-1 do isolado CF/UENF 501 de B. maydis. Foi realizada uma avaliação de incidência e três avaliações de severidade dos sintomas da doença, com o intervalo de sete dias para cada avaliação. Os dados da caracterização morfológica do isolado foram analisados por meio da estatística descritiva e para severidade da doença foi aplicado o modelo de regressão linear de primeiro grau. Realizou-se a análise de variância para o coeficiente linear e angular obtido para cada tratamento e quando constatada diferença aplicou-se o agrupamento de médias de Scott-knott a 5% de significância. O isolado apresentou colônias com coloração cinza esverdeado, aspecto algodonoso e forma irregular. As linhagens L353 e L354 e L624 estão entre as linhagens que apresentaram maior resistência no inicio e ao longo das avaliações. A elevada virulência do isolado CF/UENF 501 possibilitou diferenciar as linhagens quanto a intensidade da doença, bem como o padrão dos sintomas apresentados.

Produtividade de híbridos de milho pipoca submetidos a diferentes populações na semeadura / Productivity of poppy corn hybrids submitted to different populations in seeding / Productividad de híbridos de maíz poppy presentados a poblaciones diferentes en la sembrada

Quando se trata de milho pipoca o Brasil é o segundo maior produtor, mas necessitando ainda de importações para suprir a demanda interna do país, visto a importância de estudos que melhor explorem as recomendações agronômicas para a cultura do milho pipoca. Assim, o presente estudo objetivou avaliar o impacto da população de plantas sobre algumas variáveis morfológicas e na produtividade final de grãos de dois híbridos de milho pipoca (8203 e 4512). Foram estudadas as populações de 60.000, 65.000, 70.000, 75.000 e 80.000 plantas por ha-1 no espaçamento de 0,45cm entre linha de semeadura. O experimento foi conduzido no ano agrícola 2018/2019, na área experimental do Departamento de Ciências Agronômicas e Ambientais da Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, campus Frederico Westphalen ­ RS, em um delineamento de blocos casualizados em um esquema fatorial (2x5). O diâmetro de colmo, comprimento da espiga e peso de mil sementes diminuíram à medida que se aumentou a população de plantas. Para ambos os híbridos, e para a maioria das variáveis analisadas as densidades populacionais não interferiram de forma significativa na produtividade final de grãos do milho pipoca. Entretanto quando se trabalha a média das populações se observa uma superioridade do híbrido 8203 para as variáveis, altura de planta, altura de inserção da espiga, prolificidade, empalhamento, diâmetro de espiga, número de grãos por espiga, peso de mil sementes e produtividade final de grãos.(AU)

When it comes to popcorn, Brazil is the second largest producer, but still needing imports to supply the country's domestic demand, given the importance of studies that better explore agronomic recommendations for popcorn culture. Thus, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the impact of the plant population on some morphological variables and the final consumption of two hybrid popcorn kernels (8203 and 4512). The populations of 60.000, 65.000, 70.000, 75.000 and 80.000 plants per ha-1 were studied in the 0.45cm spacing between sowing lines. The experiment was carried out in the agricultural year 2018/2019, in the experimental area of the Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences of the Federal University of Santa Maria, Frederico Westphalen campus - RS, in a randomized block design in a factorial scheme (2x5). The stem diameter, ear length and weight of a thousand seeds decreased as the plant population increased. For both hybrids, and for most of the variables analyzed, population densities did not significantly affect the final grain yield of popcorn. However, when working with the average population, a superiority of the 8203 hybrid is observed for the variables, plant height, height of ear insertion, prolificacy, stuffing, ear diameter, number of grains per ear, weight of a thousand seeds and final productivity of grain.(AU)

En lo que respecta a las palomitas de maíz, Brasil es el segundo mayor productor, pero aún necesita importaciones para satisfacer la demanda interna del país, dada la importancia de los estudios que exploran mejor las recomendaciones agronómicas para el cultivo de palomitas de maíz. Por lo tanto, el objetivo del presente estudio fue evaluar el impacto de la población de plantas en algunas variables morfológicas y en el rendimiento final de grano de dos híbridos de palomitas de maíz (8203 y 4512). Se estudiaron las poblaciones de 60.000, 65.000, 70.000, 75.000 y 80.000 plantas por ha-1 en el espacio de 0.45cm entre líneas de siembra. El experimento se realizó en el año agrícola 2018/2019, en el área experimental del Departamento de Ciencias Agronómicas y Ambientales de la Universidad Federal de Santa María, campus Frederico Westphalen - RS, en un diseño de bloques al azar en un esquema factorial (2x5). El diámetro del tallo, la longitud de la mazorca y el peso de mil semillas disminuyeron à medida que aumentó la población de plantas. Para ambos híbridos, y para la mayoría de las variables analizadas, las densidades de población no afectaron significativamente el rendimiento final de grano de las palomitas de maíz. Sin embargo, cuando se trabaja con la población promedio, se observa una superioridad del híbrido 8203 para las variables, altura de la planta, altura de inserción de la mazorca, prolificidad, relleno, diámetro de la mazorca, número de granos por mazorca, peso de mil semillas y productividad final de grano.(AU)

Eficacia y seguridad del concentrado liofilizado de Zea mays morado en la prevención de formación de pólipos colónicos / Efficacy and safety of lyophilized concentrate purple corn (Zea mays L.) in preventing the formation of colonic polyps

RESUMEN Introducción : El cáncer colorrectal (CCR) es un problema mundial de salud pública y se origina principalmente a partir de pólipos. Hace 25 años se ha considerado una estrategia denominada quimioprevención que consiste en el consumo de alimentos como maíz morado y cúrcuma o sustancias químicas como ácido acetilsalicílico (AAS) y anti inflamatorios no esteroideos (AINEs) que previenen la carcinogénesis efectivamente al reducir el riesgo de desarrollo de pólipos. Objetivo : Determinar la eficacia y seguridad del concentrado liofilizado Zea mays morado 200 mg en la prevención de formación de pólipos colónicos en la práctica gastroenterológica privada. Material y métodos : aleatorizamos 112 pacientes (casos) para recibir este producto y 112 pacientes (controles) para recibir placebo, durante 3 años. Ambos grupos de similares características demográficas, clínicas y antecedentes patológicos. Resultados : Hallamos que los casos al final del estudio desarrollaron 83% menos pólipos que los controles (p<0,001). Los casos que desarrollaron pólipos fueron menores en número, tamaño e histología que al inicio del ensayo. Los eventos adversos que presentaron los casos fueron 4,5% similar a los controles, principalmente petequias. Conclusiones : Concluimos que el concentrado liofilizado de Zea mays morado 200 mg es eficaz y seguro en la prevención del desarrollo de pólipos colónicos.

ABSTRACT Introduction : Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a worldwide problem of public health and arises mainly from polyps. In last 25 years, a strategy called chemoprevention that consists of food intake like purple corn and turmeric or chemical substances like acetyl salicylic acid (ASA) and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that prevent effectively carcinogenesis reducing the risk of polyp development. Objective : To determine the efficacy and safety of lyophilized concentrate of purple corn (Zea mays L.) 200 mg in the prevention of colonic polyps development in private gastroenterological practice Methods : we randomly assigned 112 patients (cases) to receive this product and 112 patients (controls) to receive placebo, during 3 years. Both groups had similar demographic, clinical and medical history characteristics. Results : we found that cases developed 83% less polyps than controls (p<0.001). The cases that developed polyps were smaller in number, size and histology than at the beginning of the trial. The adverse events that cases presented were 4.5% similar to controls, mainly petechiae. Conclusion : We conclude that the lyophilized concentrate of purple corn (Zea mays L.) 200 mg was effective and safe in preventing the development of colonic polyps.

Gas Exchange, Root Morphology and Nutrients in Maize Plants Inoculated with Azospirillum brasilense Cultivated Under Two Water Conditions

HIGHLIGHTS Azospirillum brasilense stimulates root growth in maize under water deficit. Maize inoculated with A. brasilense shows greater photosynthesis under drought conditions. Under water deficit, maize plants inoculated with A. brasilense showed greater water use efficiency (WUE).

Abstract The objective of this study was to evaluate the gas exchange, root morphology and nutrient concentration in maize plants inoculated with A. brasilense under two water conditions. The experiments were carried out in a greenhouse, one under irrigation and the other under water deficit. The treatments consisted of four A. brasilense inoculants (control (without inoculation), Az1 (CMS 7 + 26), Az2 (CMS 11 + 26) and Az3 (CMS 26 +42). At the V6 plant stage, water stress was imposed on maize plants for 15 days. The phytotechnical characteristics, gas exchange, root morphology, root dry matter and macronutrient analysis were evaluated after 15 days of water deficit imposition. The water deficit caused a reduction in the development of maize plants. The presence of A. brasilense Az1 under the same condition yielded higher photosynthesis, carboxylation efficiency, water use efficiency, and greater soil exploration with increased length, surface area and root volume of plants. Inoculation by A. brasilense increased root system volume by an average of 40 and 47% under irrigation and water deficit, respectively, when compared to non-inoculated plants. The inoculant Az1 attenuated the deleterious effects caused by drought and yielded the best growth of the root system, resulting in the tolerance of maize plants to water deficit.

Evaluation of the nutritional status of corn by vegetation indices via aerial images / Avaliação do estado nutricional do milho por índices de vegetação de imagens aéreas

ABSTRACT: The objective of this study is to determine the vegetation indices (IV) as a means of identifying the nutritional status of corn, with respect to the soil nitrogen and potassium, using the aerial images received through an RGB camera loaded on an unmanned aerial vehicle. The images were obtained for an experiment of the nitrogen levels (0, 60, 120 and 180 kg ha-1) and potassium levels (0, 50, 100 and 150 kg ha-1), in the random block design, with a factorial scheme of 4 x 4, having three repetitions. Ten leaves were plucked per plot during the flowering phase to assess the total N (NF) and K+ leaf contents. The Pearson's correlation analysis, as well as the analyses of variance and regression between the IV and the concentrations of N and K2O. NF, K+ and the grain yield, responded only to the soil N levels. A significant correlation was observed for the indices of Red Index, Normalized Difference Index and Visible Atmospherically Resistant Index with the NF, which endorses them as favorable in identifying the nutritional standing of corn, with respect to the N level. Not even a single one of the indices evaluated could detect the nutritional ranking of corn in the context of the potassium level.

RESUMO: O estudo teve como objetivo avaliar índices de vegetação (IV) para detecção do status nutricional do milho com relação ao nitrogênio e potássio por meio de imagens aéreas obtidas por câmera RGB embarcada em veículo aéreo não tripulado. As imagens foram adquiridas em ensaio de níveis de nitrogênio (0, 60, 120 e 180 kg ha-1) e potássio (0, 50, 100 e 150 kg ha-1), em blocos ao acaso, fatorial 4 x 4, com três repetições. Coletaram-se dez folhas por parcela na fase de florescimento para avaliação do teor foliar de N total (NF) e K+. Efetuou-se análise de correlação de Pearson, análise de variância e de regressão entre os IV e os níveis de N e de K2O. NF, K+ e a produtividade de grãos responderam apenas aos níveis de N no solo. Houve correlação significativa para os índices Excess Red Index, Normalized Difference Index e Visible Atmospherically Resistant Index com o NF, que os credencia como promissores na detecção do status nutricional do milho em relação ao N. Nenhum dos índices avaliados foi capaz de detectar o status nutricional do milho com relação ao potássio.

Produtividade de híbridos de milho pipoca submetidos a diferentes populações na semeadura / Productivity of popcorn hybrids submitted to different populations in seeding / Productividad de híbridos de maíz para palomitas sometidos a diferentes poblaciones en la siembra

Quando se trata de milho pipoca o Brasil é o segundo maior produtor. A carência de recomendações agronômicas específicas para a cultura tem sido um limitante no avanço sobre as áreas de cultivo, dessa maneira se observa a necessidade de realizar estudos voltados ao melhor manejo para a cultura do milho pipoca. Assim, o presente estudo objetivou avaliar o impacto da população de plantas sobre algumas variáveis morfológicas e na produtividade final de grãos de dois híbridos de milho pipoca (8203 e 4512). Foram estudadas as populações de 60.000, 65.000, 70.000, 75.000 e 80.000 plantas por ha-1 no espaçamento de 0,45cm entre linha de semeadura. O experimento foi conduzido no ano agrícola 2018/2019, na área experimental do Departamento de Ciências Agronômicas e Ambientais da Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, campus Frederico Westphalen ­ RS, em um delineamento de blocos casualizados em um esquema fatorial (2x5). O diâmetro de colmo, comprimento da espiga e peso de mil sementes diminuíram à medida que se aumentou a população de plantas. Para ambos os híbridos, e para a maioria das variáveis analisadas, as densidades populacionais não interferiram de forma significativa na produtividade final de grãos do milho pipoca. Entretanto quando se trabalha a média das populações se observa uma superioridade do híbrido 8203 para as variáveis, altura de planta, altura de inserção da espiga, prolificidade, empalhamento, diâmetro de espiga, número de grãos por espiga, peso de mil sementes e produtividade final de grãos.(AU)

When it comes to popcorn, Brazil is the second largest producer of this type of maze. The lack of specific agronomic recommendations for the crop has been a limiting factor in the advance on the cultivation areas. Therefore, the need to carry out studies aimed at the best management for the culture of popcorn is essential. Thus, this study aimed at evaluating the impact of the plant population on some morphological variables and on the final grain yield of two popcorn hybrids (8203 and 4512). The populations of 60,000; 65,000; 70,000; 75,000; and 80,000 plants per ha-1 were studied in the 0.45-cm spacing between sowing lines. The experiment was carried out in the 2018/2019 agricultural year in the experimental area of the Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences at the Federal University of Santa Maria, in the Frederico Westphalen campus, state of Rio Grande do Sul, in Brazil, in a randomized block design in a (2x5) factorial scheme. The stem diameter, ear length and weight of a thousand seeds decreased as the plant population increased. For both hybrids, and for most of the variables analyzed, population densities did not significantly affect the final grain yield of popcorn. However, when working with the average population, a superiority of the 8203 hybrid is observed for the variables plant height, height of ear insertion, prolificacy, stuffing, ear diameter, number of grains per ear, weight of a thousand seeds, and final grain productivity.(AU)

Cuando se trata de maíz para palomitas, Brasil es el segundo mayor productor. La falta de recomendaciones agronómicas específicas para el cultivo ha sido un factor limitante en el avance de las áreas de cultivo, por lo que se observa la necesidad de realizar estudios encaminados al mejor manejo para el cultivo de maíz para palomitas. Así, el presente estudio tuvo como objetivo evaluar el impacto de la población de plantas sobre algunas variables morfológicas y sobre el rendimiento final de grano de dos híbridos de maíz para palomitas (8203 y 4512). Se estudiaron las poblaciones de 60.000, 65.000, 70.000, 75.000 y 80.000 plantas por ha-1 en el espacio de 0.45cm entre líneas de siembra. El experimento se realizó en el año agrícola 2018/2019, en el área experimental del Departamento de Ciencias Agronómicas y Ambientales de la Universidad Federal de Santa María, campus Frederico Westphalen - RS, en un diseño de bloques al azar en un esquema factorial (2x5). El diámetro del tallo, la longitud de la mazorca y el peso de mil semillas disminuyeron a medida que aumentó la población de plantas. Para ambos híbridos, y para la mayoría de las variables analizadas, las densidades de población no afectaron significativamente el rendimiento final de granos del maíz para palomitas. Sin embargo, cuando se trabaja con la población promedio, se observa una superioridad del híbrido 8203 para las variables, altura de la planta, altura de inserción de la mazorca, prolificidad, chalas, diámetro de la mazorca, número de granos por mazorca, peso de mil semillas y productividad final de granos.(AU)

Mineral and organomineral sources of nitrogen to maize agronomic performance / Fontes minerais e organominerais de nitrogênio para aumentar o desempenho agronômico do milho

Nitrogen (N) is one of the nutrients absorbed in great quantity by maize crop. Also, N fertilizers are of high costs and subject to large losses into the agricultural environment. There are various categories of fertilizers known as fertilizers of improved efficiency that can minimize such N losses. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of different sources and doses of N in maize agronomic performance. The experiment was installed in randomized blocks, with four replications, designed as a factorial 5 x 5 + 1, constituted by five N sources (urea, urea polymerized, urea with NBPT, organomineral with and without NBPT), five N doses (40, 80, 120, 160, 200 kg ha-1) plus a control (no N supply). The chlorophyll contents and grain yield were evaluated. The results showed no differences for the different N sources, indicating that the organomineral sources are as efficient as the mineral sources. The addition of N fertilizers in increasing doses, regardless of the source tested, has increased the levels of chlorophylls and grain yiled.

O nitrogênio (N) é um dos nutrientes absorvidos em grande quantidade pela cultura do milho. Além disso, os fertilizantes nitrogenados são de alto custo e sujeitos a grandes perdas no ambiente agrícola. Existem várias categorias de fertilizantes, conhecidas como fertilizantes de maior eficiência, que podem minimizar essas perdas de N. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o efeito de diferentes fontes e doses de N no desempenho agronômico do milho. O experimento foi instalado em blocos casualizados, com quatro repetições, delineadas como fatorial 5 x 5 + 1, constituído por cinco fontes de N (uréia, uréia polimerizada, uréia com NBPT, organomineral com e sem NBPT), cinco doses de N (40, 80, 120, 160, 200 kg ha-1) mais um controle (sem fornecimento de N). O conteúdo de clorofila e o rendimento de grãos foram avaliados. Os resultados não mostraram diferenças para as diferentes fontes de N, indicando que as fontes organomineral são tão eficientes quanto as fontes minerais. A adição de fertilizantes N em doses crescentes, independentemente da fonte testada, aumentou os níveis de clorofilas e rendimento de grãos

Leaf application of chitosan and physiological evaluation of maize hybrids contrasting for drought tolerance under water restriction / Aplicação foliar de quitosana e avaliação fisiológica de híbridos de milho contrastantes para tolerância à seca sob restrição hídrica

Abstract It is a fact that the regions that cultivate the most maize crop do not have fully adequate technologies to measure productivity losses caused by irregularities in water availability. The objective of this study was to evaluate the physiological characteristics of maize hybrids tolerant (DKB 390) and sensitive (BRS 1030) to drought, at V5 growth stage and under water restriction, in order to understand the mechanisms involved in the induction of tolerance to drought by chitosan in contrasting maize genotypes. Plants were cultivated in pots at a greenhouse, and chitosan 100 ppm was applied by leaf spraying. The water restriction was imposed for 10 days and then leaf gaseous exchange and chlorophyll fluorescence were evaluated. The tolerant hybrid (DKB 390) showed higher photosynthesis, stomatal conductance, carboxylation efficiency, electron transport rate, and non-photochemical quenching when chitosan was used. Plants from tolerant genotype treated with chitosan were more tolerant to water stress because there were more responsive to the biopolymer.

Resumo As regiões que cultivam milho como cultura principal ainda não possuem tecnologias adequadas para mensurar as perdas na produtividade decorrentes na disponibilidade irregular de água. O objetivo desse estudo foi avaliar as características fisiológicas de híbridos de milho tolerante (DKB 390) e sensível (BRS1030) à seca, no estádio de crescimento V5 e sob restrição hídrica, para compreender os mecanismos envolvidos na indução de tolerância à seca pela quitosana em genótipos contrastantes. As plantas foram cultivadas vasos na casa de vegetação e a quitosana 100 ppm foi aplicada por pulverização foliar. A restrição hídrica durou 10 dias e foram avaliadas as trocas gasosas e a fluorescência da clorofila. O híbrido tolerante (DKB 390) apresentou maior fotossíntese, condutância estomática, eficiência de carboxilação, taxa de transporte de elétrons e quenching não fotoquímico quando aplicada a quitosana. As plantas do genótipo tolerante tratadas com quitosana foram mais tolerantes ao déficit hídrico porque foram mais responsivas ao biopolímero.

Genetic variability and linear relationships between plant architecture and maize grain yield / Variabilidade genética e relações lineares entre a arquitetura de planta e a produtividade de grãos de milho

ABSTRACT: The objectives of this study were to analyze whether there is genetic variability and assess the linear relationships between plant architecture and maize grain yield. Three experiments were carried out in a complete randomized block design. A group of 51 cultivars was assessed in relation to 22 traits: number of leaves, plant height, ear height, leaf angle, leaf length, leaf width, leaf area, and grain yield. Individual analyses of variance were performed, the assumptions of normality of errors and homogeneity of residual variances were tested, and means were grouped by the Scott-Knott test. The phenotypic correlation matrix was constructed using the 22 traits of the 51 cultivars. Results showed that there is genetic variability among cultivars for number of leaves, plant height, ear height, leaf angle, leaf length, leaf width, leaf area, and grain yield. Leaves close to the ear have smaller leaf angle and larger length, width, and area of the leaves. Leaf angle gradually increases towards the lower and upper ends of the plant. Length, width, and area gradually decreases in leaves towards the lower and upper ends of the plant. Cultivars with higher number of leaves and larger leaf area are associated with higher grain yield.

RESUMO: Os objetivos deste trabalho foram verificar se há variabilidade genética e avaliar as relações lineares entre a arquitetura de planta e a produtividade de grãos de milho. Foram conduzidos três experimentos no delineamento blocos completos ao acaso. Em 51 cultivares, foram avaliados caracteres relacionados ao número de folhas, às alturas de planta e de espiga, ao ângulo foliar, ao comprimento da folha, a largura da folha, a área foliar e a produtividade de grãos, totalizando 22 caracteres. Foram realizadas análises de variância individuais, verificados os pressupostos de normalidade dos erros e homogeneidade de variâncias residuais e agrupadas as médias de cultivares pelo teste de Scott-Knott. Foi determinada a matriz de correlação fenotípica entre os 22 caracteres das 51 cultivares. Há variabilidade genética entre as cultivares em relação ao número de folhas, alturas de planta e de espiga, ângulo foliar, comprimento da folha, largura da folha, área foliar e produtividade de grãos. Folhas localizadas próximas a espiga apresentam menor ângulo foliar e maiores comprimento da folha, largura da folha e área foliar. O ângulo foliar aumenta gradativamente em direção as folhas da extremidade inferior e superior da planta. O comprimento da folha, a largura da folha e a área foliar diminuem gradativamente em direção as folhas da extremidade inferior e superior da planta. Cultivares com maior número de folhas e maior área foliar estão associadas a plantas com maior produtividade de grãos.

Performance, carcass characteristics and ingestive behavior of steers fed with silages of different maize hybrids / Desempenho, características da carcaça e comportamento ingestivo de novilhos alimentados com silagens de diferentes híbridos de milho

The objective of this study was to evaluate the performance, carcass characteristics and ingestive behavior of feedlot steers fed with three maize hybrids: Maximus VIP3, Defender VIP and Feroz VIP. The experiment lasted 112 days, weighing animals four times, every 28 days. The experimental diets were formulated and constituted by maize silage and pelletized ration in a 50:50 ratio (dry basis). Regardless of the hybrid used, there was an increase in the intake of dry matter with the advance in feedlot evaluation period (9.15, 9.14, 9.35 and 9.59kg day-1, in the first, second, third and fourth weighing, respectively). The type of maize hybrid silage influenced weight gain of animals differently, with a final mean of 1.413kg for animals fed with Maximus VIP3, 1,375kg for those fed with Defender VIP and 1,184kg for those fed with Feroz VIP. The animals fed with Feroz VIP hybrid silage showed higher carcass gain efficiency and were more active in the number of times they went to the feeder. Although the three evaluated hybrids resulted in good animal performance, the carcass characteristics did not change; nevertheless, the hybrid Maximus VIP3 is recommended for its superior bromatological composition.(AU)

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar desempenho, características da carcaça e comportamento ingestivo de novilhos terminados em confinamento alimentados com silagens dos híbridos de milho: Maximus VIP3, Defender VIP e Feroz VIP. O experimento teve duração de 112 dias, sendo quatro pesagens a cada 28 dias. As dietas experimentais foram formuladas e constituídas por silagem de milho e ração peletizada em proporção de 50:50, na base seca. Independentemente do híbrido utilizado, houve aumento conforme avanço na fase de terminação (9,15; 9,14; 9,35 e 9,59kg dia-1, na primeira, segunda, terceira e quarta pesagens, respectivamente). A distinção da silagem de milho determinou diferença no ganho de peso dos animais, com média final de 1,413kg para os animais tratados com Maximus VIP3, 1,375kg para os tratados com Defender VIP e 1,184 para aqueles alimentados com Feroz VIP. Os animais alimentados com silagem do híbrido Feroz VIP apresentaram maior eficiência de ganho de carcaça e foram mais ativos ao número de vezes em ir ao comedouro. Apesar dos três híbridos avaliados proporcionarem bons resultados relacionados ao desempenho animal, as características da carcaça não sofreram alterações; mesmo assim, recomenda-se o híbrido Maximus VIP3 por sua superioridade bromatológica.(AU)

Preliminary Environmental Risk Assessment of Insect Resistant Genetically Modified Maize MON 89034 for Cultivation (EFSA/GMO/BE/2011/90)

The environmental risk assessment of the insect resistant genetically modified maize MON 89034 (Reference EFSA/GMO/BE/2011/90) has been performed by the Panel on Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO) of the Norwegian Scientific Committee for Food Safety (VKM). VKM has been requested by the Norwegian Directorate for Nature Management and the Norwegian Food Safety Authority to issue a preliminary scientific opinion on the safety of the genetically modified maize MON 89034 (Unique identifier MON-89Ø34-3) for cultivation, and submit relevant scientific comments or questions to EFSA on the application EFSA/GMOBE/2011/90. The current submission is intended to complement application EFSA-GMO-NL-2007-37, which was approved by Commission Decision 2009/813/EC of 30 October 2009, authorising the placing on the market of products containing, consisting of, or produced from genetically modified maize MON 89034 (scope import, processing, food and feed). Maize MON89034 has previously been assessed by the VKM GMO Panel in connection with EFSA´s public hearing of the application EFSA/GMO/NL/2007/37 (VKM 2008a). Preliminary health- and environmental risk assessments of several stacked events, with MON 89034 as one of the parental lines, have also been performed by the VKM GMO Panel (VKM 2009a, b, c; VKM 2010a,b). The environmental risk assessment of the maize MON 89034 is based on information provided by the applicant in the application EFSA/GMO/BE/2011/90, and scientific comments from EFSA and other member states made available on the EFSA website GMO Extranet. The risk assessment also considered peer-reviewed scientific literature as relevant. The VKM GMO Panel has evaluated MON 89034 with reference to its intended uses in the European Economic Area (EEA), and according to the principles described in the Norwegian Food Act, the Norwegian Gene Technology Act and regulations relating to impact assessment pursuant to the Gene Technology Act, Directive 2001/18/EC on the deliberate release into the environment of genetically modified organisms, and Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 on genetically modified food and feed. The Norwegian Scientific Committee for Food Safety has also decided to take account of the appropriate principles described in the EFSA guidelines for the risk assessment of GM plants and derived food and feed (EFSA 2006, 2011a), the environmental risk assessment of GM plants (EFSA 2010), the selection of comparators for the risk assessment of GM plants (EFSA 2011b), and for the post-market environmental monitoring of GM plants (EFSA 2006, 2011c). The scientific risk assessment of maize MON 89034 include molecular characterisation of the inserted DNA and expression of target proteins, comparative assessment of agronomic and phenotypic characteristics, unintended effects on plant fitness, potential for gene transfer, interactions between the GM plant and target and non-target organisms, effects on biogeochemical processes and evaluations of the post-market environmental plan. In line with its mandate, VKM emphasised that assessments of sustainable development, societal utility and ethical considerations, according to the Norwegian Gene Technology Act and Regulations relating to impact assessment pursuant to the Gene Technology Act, shall not be carried out by the Panel on Genetically Modified Organisms. The genetically modified maize MON 89034 was developed to provide protection against certain lepidopteran target pest, including European corn borer (Ostrinia nubilalis) and Mediterranean corn borer (Sesamia nonagrioides). Protection is achieved through expression in the plant of two insecticidal Cry proteins, Cry1A.105 and Cry2Ab2, derived from Bacillus thuringiensis, a common soil bacterium. Cry1A.105, encoded by the cry1A.105 gene, is a chimeric protein made up of different functional domains derived from three wild-type Cry proteins from B. thuringiensis subspecies kurstaki and aizawai. The Cry2Ab2 protein is encoded by the cry2Ab2 gene derived from B. thuringiensis subspecies kurstaki. Molecular characterization: Appropriate analysis of the integration site, including flanking sequence and bioinformatics analysis, has been performed to characterise the transformation event MON 89034. The results of the segregation analysis are consistent with a single site of insertion for the cry1A.105 and cry2Ab2 gene expression cassettes and confirm the results of the molecular characterisation. Molecular analysis of both self-pollinated and cross-fertilised lines, representing a total of seven different generations, indicates that the inserted DNA is stably transformed and inherited from one generation to the next. No genes that encode resistance to antibiotics are present in the genome of MON 89034 maize. The molecular characterisation confirmed the absence of both the aad and nptII genes, which were used in the cloning and transformation process. Event MON 89034 and the physical, chemical and functional characteristics of the proteins have previously been evaluated by The VKM Panel on Genetically Modified Organisms, and considered satisfactory (VKM 2008a). Comparative assessment: The field trials for comparative assessment of agronomic and phenotypic characteristics of maize MON 89034 in the USA (2004-2005) and Europe (2007), have been performed in accordance with the EFSAs guidelines for risk assessment of genetically modified plants and derived food and feed (EFSA 2010, 2011a). Based on results from the comparative analyses, it is concluded that maize MON 89034 is agronomically and phenotypically equivalent to the conventional counterpart and commercial available reference varieties, with the exception of the lepidopteran-protection trait. The field evaluations support a conclusion of no phenotypic changes indicative of increased plant weed/pest potential of MON 89034 compared to conventional maize. Evaluations of ecological interactions between maize MON 89034 and the biotic and abiotic environment indicate no unintended effects of the introduced trait on agronomic and phenotypic characteristics. Environmental risk: There are no reports of the target Lepidopteran species attaining pest status on maize in Norway. Since there are no Bt-based insecticides approved for use in Norway, and lepidopteran pests have not been registered in maize, issues related to resistance evolution in target pests are not relevant at present for Norwegian agriculture. Published scientific studies show no or negligible adverse effects of Cry1A.105 and Cry2Ab2 proteins on non-target arthropods that live on or in the vicinity of maize plants. Cultivation of maize MON 89034 is not considered to represent a threat to the prevalence of red-listed species in Norway. Few studies have been published examining potential effects of Cry1A.105 and Cry2Ab toxin on ecosystems in soil, mineralization, nutrient turnover and soil communities. Some field studies have indicated that root exudates and decaying plant material containing Cry proteins may affect population size and activity of rhizosphere organisms (soil protozoa and microorganisms). However, data are only available from short term experiments and predictions of potential long term effects are difficult to deduce. Most studies conclude that effects on soil microorganisms and microbial communities are transient and minor compared to effects caused by agronomic and environmental factors. Few studies have assessed the impact of Cry proteins on non-target aquatic arthropods and the fate of these proteins in senescent and decaying maize detritus in aquatic environments. Further studies with better experimental design are needed for the assessment of the potential effects of Bt crops on aquatic organisms. However, exposure of non-target organisms to Cry proteins in aquatic ecosystems is likely to be very low, and potential exposure of Bt toxins to non-target organisms in stream ecosystems in Norway is considered to be negligible. Maize is the only representative of the genus Zea in Europe, and there are no cross-compatible wild or weedy relatives outside cultivation with which maize can hybridise and form backcross progeny. Vertical gene transfer in maize therefore depends on cross-pollination with other conventional or organic maize varieties. In addition, unintended admixture of genetically modified material in seeds represents a possible way for gene flow between different crop cultivations. The risk of pollen flow from maize volunteers is negligible under Norwegian growing conditions. In addition to the data presented by the applicant, the VKM GMO Panel is not aware of any scientific report of increased establishment and spread of maize MON 89034 and any change in survival (including over-wintering), persistence and invasiveness capacity. Because the general characteristics of maize MON 89034 are unchanged, insect resistance are not likely to provide a selective advantage outside cultivation in Norway. Since MON 89034 has no altered agronomic and phenotypic characteristics, except for the specific target pest resistance, the VKM GMO Panel is of the opinion that the likelihood of unintended environmental effects due to the establishment and survival of maize MON 89034 will be no different to that of conventional maize varieties in Norway The environmental risk assessment will be completed and finalized by the VKM Panel on Genetically Modified Organisms when requested additional information from the applicant is available.

Environmental Risk Assessment of Insect Resistant Genetically Modified Maize MON810 for Cultivation, Seed Production, Import, Processing and Feed Uses under Directive 2001/18/EC (Notification C/F/95/12/02)

In preparation for a legal implementation of EU-regulation 1829/2003, the Norwegian Scientific Committee for Food Safety (VKM) has been requested by the Norwegian Directorate for Nature Management to conduct final environmental risk assessments for all genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and products containing or consisting of GMOs that are authorized in the European Union under Directive 2001/18/EC or Regulation 1829/2003/EC. The request covers scope(s) relevant to the Gene Technology Act. The request does not cover GMOs that VKM already has conducted its final risk assessments on. However, the Directorate requests VKM to consider whether updates or other changes to earlier submitted assessments are necessary. MON810 notification C/F/95/12-02 is approved under Directive 90/220/EEC for cultivation, seed production, import and processing into feeding stuffs and industrial purposes since 22 April 1998 (Commission Decision 98/294/EC). In December 1997, food and food ingredients derived from the progeny of maize line MON810 were notified under Article 5 of Regulation (EC) No 258/97 on novel foods and novel food ingredients. In addition, existing food and feed products containing, consisting of or produced from MON810 were notified according to Articles 8 and 20 of Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 and were placed in the Community Register in 2005. Three applications for renewal of the authorisation for continued marketing of (1) existing food and food ingredients produced from MON810; (2) feed consisting of and/or containing maize MON810, and MON810 for feed use (including cultivation); and (3) food and feed additives, and feed materials produced from maize MON810 within the framework of Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 were submitted in 2007. Maize MON810 has previously been assessed by the VKM GMO Panel commissioned by the Norwegian Directorate for Nature Management in connection with the national finalisation of the procedure of the notification C/F/95/12/02 (VKM 2007a,b). In addition, MON810 has been evaluated by the VKM GMO Panel as a component of several stacked GM maize events (VKM 2005a,b,c, VKM 2007c, VKM 2008, VKM 2009, VKM 2012). Due to the publication of updated guidelines for environmental risk assessments of genetically modified plants and new scientific literature, the VKM GMO Panel has decided to deliver an updated environmental risk assessment of MON810. The environmental risk assessment of the maize MON810 is based on information provided by the applicant in the notification C/F/95/12/02 and application EFSA/GMO/RX/MON810, and scientific comments from EFSA and other member states made available on the EFSA website GMO Extranet. The risk assessment also considered other peer-reviewed scientific literature as relevant. The VKM GMO Panel has evaluated MON810 with reference to its intended uses in the European Economic Area (EEA), and according to the principles described in the Norwegian Food Act, the Norwegian Gene Technology Act and regulations relating to impact assessment pursuant to the Gene Technology Act, Directive 2001/18/EC on the deliberate release into the environment of genetically modified organisms, and Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 on genetically modified food and feed. The Norwegian Scientific Committee for Food Safety has also decided to take account of the appropriate principles described in the EFSA guidelines for the risk assessment of GM plants and derived food and feed (EFSA 2006, 2011a), the environmental risk assessment of GM plants (EFSA 2010), the selection of comparators for the risk assessment of GM plants (EFSA 2011b), and for the post-market environmental monitoring of GM plants (EFSA 2006, 2011c). The scientific risk assessment of maize MON810 include molecular characterisation of the inserted DNA and expression of the target protein, comparative assessment of agronomic and phenotypic characteristics, unintended effects on plant fitness, potential for gene transfer, interactions between the GM plant and target and non-target organisms, effects on biogeochemical processes and evaluations of the post-market environmental plan. In line with its mandate, VKM emphasised that assessments of sustainable development, societal utility and ethical considerations, according to the Norwegian Gene Technology Act and Regulations relating to impact assessment pursuant to the Gene Technology Act, shall not be carried out by the Panel on Genetically Modified Organisms. The genetically modified maize MON810 was developed to provide protection against certain lepidopteran target pests, including European corn borer (Ostrinia nubilalis) and species belonging to the genus Sesamia. Protection is achieved through expression in the plant of the insecticidal Cry protein, Cry1Ab, derived from Bacillus thuringiensis ssp. kurstaki, a common soil bacterium. Molecular characterisation Appropriate analysis of the integration site including flanking sequences and bioinformatics analyses have been performed to analyse the construct integrated in the GM plant. Updated bioinformatics analyses revealed that one ORF shared sequence similarity to a putative HECT-ubiquitin ligase protein. The VKM GMO Panel found no safety implications from the interruption of this gene sequence. Analyses of leaf, grains, whole plant tissue and pollen from the maize MON 810 demonstrated that the Cry1Ab protein is expressed at very low levels in all tissues tested and constitutes less than 0.001% of the fresh weight in each tissue. The cry1Ab gene is the only transgene expressed in line MON 810 and was expressed highest in the leaves. The stability of the genetic modification has been demonstrated over several generations. Event MON810 and the physical, chemical and functional characteristics of the proteins have previously been evaluated by The VKM Panel on Genetically Modified Organisms, and considered satisfactory (VKM 2007a,b). Comparative assessment: Comparative analyses of data from field trials located at representative sites and environments in the USA and Europe indicate that maize MON810 is agronomically and phenotypically equivalent to the conventional counterpart and commercially available reference varieties, with the exception of the lepidopteran-protection trait, conferred by the expression of the Cry1Ab protein. The field evaluations support a conclusion of no phenotypic changes indicative of increased plant weed/pest potential of MON810 compared to conventional maize. Evaluations of ecological interactions between maize MON810 and the biotic and abiotic environment indicate no unintended effects of the introduced trait on agronomic and phenotypic characteristics. Environmental risk: There are no reports of the target lepidopteran species attaining pest status on maize in Norway. Since there are no Bt-based insecticides approved for use in Norway, and lepidopteran pests have not been registered in maize, issues related to resistance evolution in target pests are not relevant at present for Norwegian agriculture. Published scientific studies show no or negligible adverse effects of Cry1Ab protein on non-target arthropods that live on or in the vicinity of maize plants. Cultivation of maize MON810 is not considered to represent a threat to the prevalence of red-listed species in Norway. Few studies have been published examining potential effects of Cry1Ab toxin on ecosystems in soil, mineralization, nutrient turnover and soil communities. Some field studies have indicated that root exudates and decaying plant material containing Cry proteins may affect population size and activity of rhizosphere organisms (soil protozoa and microorganisms). Most studies conclude that effects on soil microorganisms and microbial communities are transient and minor compared to effects caused by agronomic and environmental factors. However, data are only available from short term experiments and predictions of potential long term effects are difficult to deduce. Few studies have assessed the impact of Cry proteins on non-target aquatic arthropods and the fate of these proteins in senescent and decaying maize detritus in aquatic environments. However, exposure of non-target organisms to Cry proteins in aquatic ecosystems is likely to be very low, and potential exposure of Bt toxins to non-target organisms in aquatic ecosystems in Norway is considered to be negligible. Maize is the only representative of the genus Zea in Europe, and there are no cross-compatible wild or weedy relatives outside cultivation with which maize can hybridise and form backcross progeny. Vertical gene transfer in maize therefore depends on cross-pollination with other conventional or organic maize varieties. In addition, unintended admixture of genetically modified material in seeds represents a possible way for gene flow between different crop cultivations. The risk of pollen flow from maize volunteers is negligible under Norwegian growing conditions. In addition to the data presented by the applicant, the VKM GMO Panel is not aware of any scientific report of increased establishment and spread of maize MON810 and any change in survival (including over-wintering), persistence and invasiveness capacity. Because the general characteristics of maize MON810 are unchanged, insect resistance are not likely to provide a selective advantage outside cultivation in Norway. Since MON810 has no altered agronomic and phenotypic characteristics, except for the specific target pest resistance, the VKM GMO Panel is of the opinion that the likelihood of unintended environmental effects due to the establishment and survival of maize MON810 will be no different to that of conventional maize varieties in Norway. Overall conclusion: The VKM GMO Panel concludes that cultivation of maize MON810 is unlikely to have any adverse effect on the environment in Norway.

Soil organic matter and production of ears of green corn after four years under tillage systems and previous crops in costal tablelands / Matéria orgânica do solo e a produção espigas de milho-verde após quatro anos sob sistemas de cultivo e culturas antecedentes nos tabuleiros costeiros

The current study aimed to evaluate the effects of different tillage systems on soil organic matter (SOM) contents and green corn yield (total ear weight) of an Argissolo Vermelho-Amarelo(Ultissol) in Coastal tablelands of northeast Brazil. The experiment was arranged as a strip plot design with three replications. Three tillage practices [conventional tillage (CT), minimum tillage (MT) and no-tillage (NT)] were laid out as a whole plot each (830 m²). Then, each plot was equally split into 12 experimental units (60 m²), distant 1 x 10 m from each other, where in four cover crops [pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.), sunn hemp (Crotalaria juncea L.), beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) and peanut (Arachis hypogeae) were seedling previous to corn cultivation. Neither cover crops, nor tillage practices affected SOM contents at 0.20 m depth. An exception was observed on beans plots in which CT resulted on the lowest SOM content (8.5 dag kg-1) at 0-10 cm soil layer. Regarding green corn ears yield, CT adoption also resulted in lower weight (4.11 t ha-1) than those on NT (7.65 t ha-1), regardless of cover crop. On the other hand, the influence of cover crops on green corn yield relied upon tillage practices. Peanuts and sunn hemp performed best to improve corn yield in CT; peanuts and beans increased by 14 % the green corn ears yield in MT, while sunn hemp resulted in the highest total ear weight (9.42 t ha-1). Linear correlation of Pearson was significant for SOM and productivity green maize ears in minimum tillage beans (p <0.001; r = 0.996). After four years of absence or reduced soildisturbance, there was no increase in SOM levels. The plowing appears to be important for increasing the entry of C soil and chemical protection SOM of Argissols mainly in the surface layer of Coastal tablelands in brazilian northeast. Although the NT did not provide higher levels of SOM, the yield of green maize incommercial was significantly higher when adopting conservation systems.

O presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar o efeito de diferentes sistemas de cultivo nos teores de matéria orgânica do solo (MOS) e na produtividade do milho verde (peso total das espigas) emArgissolo Vermelho-Amarelo (Ultissol) nos Tabuleiros costeiros da região nordeste do Brasil.. O experimento foi disposto em faixas experimentais com três repetições.Três práticas de cultivo [cultivo convencional (CC), cultivo mínimo (CM) e plantio direto (PD)] foram arranjadas em faixas (830 m²). Então, cada faixa foi dividida igualmente em doze unidades experimentais (60 m²), distante entre si a cada 1 x 10 m, onde quatro culturas antecessoras [guandu (Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.) crotalária (Crotalaria juncea), feijão (Phaseolus vulgaris) e amendoim (Arachis hypogeae)] foram semeadas previamente ao cultivo do milho. As culturas antecessoras e as práticas de cultivo não afetaram os teores de MOS da profundidade de 0.20 m. Uma exceção foi observada nas parcelas com feijão no qual o CC resultou no menor teor de MOS (8.5 dag kg-1) na camada 0-10 cm. Em relação a produtividade das espigas de milho verde, a adoção do CC também resultou em menor peso (4,11 t ha-1) que no PD (7,65 t ha-1), independente da cultura antecessora. Por outro lado, a influência da cultura de cobertura sob a produtividade do milho verde foi dependente da prática de cultivo. Amendoim e crotalária saíram-se melhor para aumentar a produtividade do milho no CC; amendoim e feijão aumentaram em 14 % a produtividade das espigas de milho verde no CM, enquanto crotalária resultou no mais alto peso total das espigas (9,42 t ha-1). A correlação linear de Pearson foi significativo para a MOS e produtividade de espigas de milho verde com crotalária sob o cultivo mínimo (p <0,001; r = 0,996). Após quatro anos da ausência ouredução do revolvimento do solo, não houve aumento nos níveis de MOS. A aração parece ser importante para aumentar a entrada de C no solo e a proteção química da MOS em Argissolos, principalmente na camada superficial. Embora o PD não tenha fornecido níveis mais elevados de MOS, o rendimento de espigas comerciais de milho verde foi significativamente maior ao se adotar sistemas conservacionistas.

Photosynthetic characteristics of summer maize under different planting patterns and the responses to nitrogen application of previous crop / Características fotossintéticas do milho verão sob diferentes padrões de plantio e as respostas à aplicação de nitrogênio da cultura anterior

Maize (Zea mays L.) is one of the most important grain crops in the North China Plain. Management practices affect the photosynthetic characteristics and the production of summer maize. This two-year (2014-2015) study examined the effects of different planting patterns and the application of nitrogen to previous winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) on the photosynthetic characteristics, yield and radiation use efficiency (RUE) of summer maize. Field experiments used a two-factor split-plot design with three replicates at Taian, Shandong Province, China (36°09' N, 117°09' E). The experiments involved two planting patterns(ridge planting, RP; and uniform row planting, UR) and two nitrogen application levels of previous winter wheat (N1, 112.50 kg ha-1; N2, 225.00 kg ha-1). The results indicated that the application of nitrogen on previous crop and ridge planting of the following crop had significant effects on the photosynthetic characteristics and yields of summer maize. Compared with UR, this study found that RP increased the chlorophyll content index (CCI), leaf area index (LAI), net photosynthetic rate (Pn), dry matter (DM), yield and grain RUE by 4.1%, 6.3%, 5.2%, 6.4%, 8.9% and 9.4%, respectively. The CCI, LAI, Pn, yield, and grain RUE of N2 were 9.7%, 3.3%, 3.7%, 10.0% and 10.1% higher than those of N1, respectively. RP combined with the application of nitrogen on previous crop of winter wheat could increase the CCI, LAI, Pn, DM, ultimately increasing the grain yield and RUE of the following summer's maize. It was concluded that previous crop nitrogen application and RP pattern treatment resulted in optimal cropping conditions for the North China plain.

O milho (Zea mays L.) é uma das culturas de grãos mais importantes da Planície do Norte da China. Práticas de manejo afetam as características fotossintéticas e a produção do milho verão. Este estudo de dois anos (2014-2015) examinou os efeitos de diferentes padrões de plantio e a aplicação de nitrogênio ao trigo de inverno anterior (Triticum aestivum L.) sobre as características fotossintéticas, produtividade e eficiência de uso de radiação (RUE) do milho verão. Experimentos de campo usaram um delineamento em parcelas subdivididas de dois fatores com três repetições em Taian, província de Shandong, China (36°09' N, 117°09' E). Os experimentos envolveram dois padrões de plantio (ridge planting, RP; e uniform row planting, UR) e dois níveis de aplicação de nitrogênio do trigo de inverno anterior (N1, 112,50 kg ha-1; N2, 225,00 kg ha-1). Os resultados indicaram que a aplicação de nitrogênio na cultura anterior e no plantio RP da cultura seguinte teve efeitos significativos nas características fotossintéticas e na produtividade do milho verão. Comparado com o plantio UR, este estudo concluiu que RP aumentou o índice de conteúdo de clorofila (CCI), índice de área foliar (LAI), taxa fotossintética líquida (Pn), matéria seca (DM), produtividade e RUE de grãos em 4,1%, 6,4%, 5,2%, 6,4%, 8,9% e 9,4%, respectivamente. Os valores de CCI, LAI, Pn, produtividade e RUE de N2 foram 9,7%, 3,3%, 3,7%, 10,0% e 10,1% superiores aos de N1, respectivamente. RP combinada com a aplicação de nitrogênio na safra anterior de trigo de inverno poderia aumentar os valores de CCI, LAI, Pn, DM, aumentando o rendimento de grãos e RUE do milho do verão seguinte. Concluiu-se que a aplicação prévia de nitrogênio na colheita e o tratamento com padrão RP resultaram em condições ótimas de cultivo para a planície do norte da China.

Tolerance to hydric stress on cultivars of silicon-fertilized corn crops: absorption and water-use efficiency / Tolerância ao estresse hídrico em cultivares de milho adubadas com silício: absorção e eficência no uso da água

Silicon (Si) plays specific functions in agriculture. Si is a beneficial element, as it accumulates at high amounts in plant tissue. Si accumulation in cell walls reduces water loss by transpiration and may be an adaptation factor to water stress. This study evaluated the efficiency of different corn crops using calcium silicate as a reducer of hydric stress. The experiment was organized in a factorial scheme, completely randomized, with two doses of calcium silicate (0 and 100 % according to soil liming) with two irrigation depths: (30 and 100 % of necessary water reposition in the soil) and two corn cultivars: (cv. BRS-1010) considered sensitive to hydric stress and (cv. DKB-390) tolerant to hydric stress. The study comprised four repetitions. We studied dry matter production on leaves and stem, weight of 1000 seeds and crop yield. We measured efficiency of gas exchange and water use to compare the different treatments. The results for stem and leaves dry matter were better in both cultivars when using calcium silicate, regardless of irrigation depth. Both corn cultivars cv. BRS-1010, sensitive to hydric stress, and cv. DKB-390, tolerant to hydric stress, had greater yield in the presence of calcium silicate, when at the smallest irrigation dose was applied. The treatment with calcium silicate was the most efficient in water use, using 30% of irrigation depth. Cv. DKB 390 was the most productive, with greater tolerance to water stress.

O silício (Si) desempenha funções específicas na agricultura, sendo considerado um elemento benéfico, pois se acumula em quantidades elevadas no tecido da planta. O acúmulo de Si nas paredes celulares reduz a perda de água pela transpiração e pode ser um fator de adaptação ao estresse hídrico. Este estudo avaliou a eficiência de diferentes cultivares de milho utilizando o silicato de cálcio como amenizador do estresse hídrico. O experimento foi organizado em esquema fatorial, inteiramente casualizado, com duas doses de silicato de cálcio (0 e 100% de acordo com a calagem do solo), com duas lâminas de irrigação (30 e 100% de reposição de água necessária no solo) e duas cultivares de milho: a (cv. BRS-1010) considerada sensível ao estresse hídrico e a (cv. DKB-390) tolerante ao estresse hídrico, com quatro repetições. Estudamos a produção de matéria seca em folhas e caule, o peso de 1000 sementes e o rendimento da cultura. Medimos a eficiência das trocas gasosas e do uso da água para comparar os diferentes tratamentos. Os resultados para matéria seca do caule e das folhas foram melhores em ambas as cultivares, quando utilizadas o silicato de cálcio, independente da lâmina de irrigação. As duas cultivares de milho estudadas, cv. BRS-1010 tolerante ao estresse hídrico e o DKB-390 tolerante ao estresse hídrico apresentaram maior produção na presença de silicato de cálcio, quando a menor lâmina de água foi aplicada. A maior eficiência no uso da água foi obtida no tratamento com silicato de cálcio, utilizando 30% de irrigação. A cv. DKB 390 foi a mais produtiva, com maior tolerância ao déficit hídrico.

Simultaneous determination of mycotoxins in peruvian purple maize / Determinação simultânea de micotoxinas em milho roxo peruano

ABSTRACT: Purple maize is an important foodstuff for the Peruvian people. Its unique nutritional and antioxidant characteristics makes it widely exported to other countries. However, when contaminated by fungi, it can trigger numerous health problems in the consumers. This study aimed to evaluate the presence of 27 mycotoxins in 63 samples of purple maize collected in Peru. Frequency of occurrence and mean concentration of the following mycotoxins were determined: alternariolmetileter (AME), alternariol (AOH), tentoxin, neosolaniol, nivalenol, wortmannin, deoxynivalenol, 3-acetyl deoxynivalenol, 15-acetyl deoxynivalenol, zearalenone, aflatoxin B1, aflatoxin B2, aflatoxin G1, aflatoxin G2, fumonisin B1, fumonisin B2, fumonisin B3, ochratoxin A, ochratoxin α, T-2 toxin, HT-2 toxin, fusarenon x, cyclopiazonic acid, gliotoxin, agroclavin and citreoviridin. The main mycotoxins reported in purple maize were AME and AOH, with a frequency of occurrence of 14.3 and 7.9%, and mean concentration of 23.3% and 1.8%, respectively. AME and AOH do not have guidance levels in the Brazilian legislation. Contrastingly, levels of mycotoxins which are within the standards of the country's regulations were below the limit of quantification. The present results suggested that purple maize is a raw material with a great potential for the production and industrialization of special products.

RESUMO: O milho roxo é um alimento importante para o povo peruano. Suas características nutricionais e antioxidantes únicas fazem com que seja amplamente exportado para outros países. No entanto, quando contaminado por fungos, pode desencadear inúmeros problemas de saúde nos consumidores. Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a presença de 27 micotoxinas em 63 amostras de milho roxo coletadas no Peru. A frequência de ocorrência e a concentração média das seguintes micotoxinas foram determinadas: alternariolmetileter (AME), alternariol (AOH), tentoxina, neosolaniol, nivalenol, wortmanina, desoxinivalenol, 3-acetil desoxinivalenol, 15-acetil desoxinivalenol, zearalenona, aflatoxina B1, aflatoxina B2 , aflatoxina G1, aflatoxina G2, fumonisina B1, fumonisina B2, fumonisina B3, ocratoxina A, ocratoxina, toxina T-2, toxina HT-2, fusarenona x, ácido ciclopiazonico, gliotoxina, agroclavina e citreoviridina. As principais micotoxinas encontradas no milho roxo foram AME e AOH, com frequência de ocorrência de 14,3% e 7,9% e concentração média de 23,3% e 1,8%, respectivamente. AME e AOH não possuem níveis de orientação na legislação brasileira. Contrastantemente, os níveis de micotoxinas que estão dentro dos padrões das regulamentações do país estavam abaixo do limite de quantificação. Os presentes resultados sugerem que o milho roxo é uma matéria-prima com grande potencial para a produção e industrialização de produtos especiais.

Fertirrigação do milho com água residuária sanitária tratada: crescimento e produção / Maize fertigation with treated sanitary wastewater: growth and yield

RESUMO Avaliou-se o crescimento vegetativo e a produção de milho em campo, fertirrigado com diferentes doses de água residuária da estação de tratamento de esgoto de Janaúba, Minas Gerais. Utilizou-se o delineamento em quatro blocos casualizados com parcelas subdivididas, sendo cinco tratamentos: água limpa + adubação mineral; e água residuária tratada equivalente a 50; 100; 150 e 200% da adubação com 60 kg.ha-1 de K2O em cobertura. Nas subparcelas, avaliaram-se as plantas aos 24, 38, 51 e 74 dias após a emergência. O fornecimento de doses de potássio via água residuária tratada além de 142% da dose recomendada do nutriente reduz o diâmetro transversal da copa. A produtividade do milho em grãos não é influenciada pela aplicação de água residuária tratada.

ABSTRACT We evaluated the growth and yield of maize field, fertigated with different wastewater rates coming from Janaúba sewage treatment plant (Minas Gerais State, Brazil). The split-plot on a randomized complete block design was used with five levels: mineral fertilizer + clean water, treated wastewater like to 50%, 100%, 150% and 200% fertilization with 60 kg.ha-1 K2O topdressing. As subplots, maize plants were evaluated at 24, 38, 51 and 74 days after emergence. Potassium supply 142% above the recommended level decrease the transversal canopy diameter. Maize grain yield is not affected by wastewater fertigation.

Risk Assessment of Insect-resistant and Herbicide Tolerant Genetically Modified Maize Bt11 for Cultivation, Import, Processing, Food and Feed Uses under Directive 2001/18/EC and Regulation (EC) Opinion

The Norwegian Environment Agency (NEA) and the Norwegian Food Safety Authority (NFSA) requested the Norwegian Scientific Committee for Food Safety (Vitenskapskomiteen for mattrygghet, VKM) for an opinion of potential risks to biodiversity and agriculture in Norway associated with import of seeds for sowing and cultivation of insect-resistant and herbicide tolerant genetically modified maize Bt11 under Directive 2001/18/EC (Notification C/F/96.05.10). The notification is still pending for authorisation in the European Union. VKM is also requested to assess the applicant´s post-market environmental monitoring plan, and the management measures suggested in the draft implementing decision of the European Commission. As the scope of the notification does not cover food and feed uses of maize Bt11, VKM was not asked for a health risk assessment of maize Bt11. However, VKM has decided to update a previous safety evaluation of the food and feed uses of maize Bt11 and derived products (VKM, 2014). VKM appointed a working group consisting of members from the Panel on Genetically Modified Organisms, the Panel on Alien Organisms and trade in Endangered Species (CITES) and the VKM staff to answer the requests. The Panel on Genetically Modified Organisms assessed and approved the final report. The genetically modified maize Bt11 was developed to provide protection against certain lepidopteran target pests, such as the European corn borer (ECB, Ostrinia nubilalis), and some species belonging to the genus Sesamia . The insect resistence is achieved by the expression of a truncated form of a Cry1Ab protein encoded by a modified cry1Ab gene derived from the soil microorganism Bacillus thuringiensis subsp kurstaki HD-1. Maize Bt11 also expresses the phosphinothricin - N - ace tyltransferase (pat) gene, derived from the soil microorganism Streptomyces viridochromogenes strain Tu494, which encodes the enzyme: phosphinothricin acetyl transferase (PAT). PAT protein confers tolerance to the herbicidal active substance glufosinate-ammonium. The PAT protein expressed in Bt11 was used as a selectable marker to facilitate the selection process of transformed plant cells and is not intended for weed management purposes. Since the scope of the notification C/F/96.05.10 does not cover the use of glufosinate-ammonium-containing herbicides on maize Bt11, potential effects due to the use of such herbicides on maize Bt11 are not considered by VKM. In delivering its scientific opinion, VKM considered relevant peer-reviewed scientific publications and information provided by the applicant in the notification C/F/96.05.10, the renewal application EFSA/GMO/RX/Bt11, and scientific opinions and comments from EFSA and other EU-member states. VKM has evaluated maize Bt11 with reference to its intended uses in the European Economic Area (EEA), and according to the principles described in the Norwegian Food Act, the Norwegian Gene Technology Act and regulations relating to impact assessment pursuant to the Gene Technology Act, Directive 2001/18/EC on the deliberate release into the environment of genetically modified organisms, and Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 on genetically modified food and feed. The Norwegian Scientific Committee for Food Safety has also decided to take account of the appropriate principles described in the EFSA guidelines for the risk assessment of GM plants and derived food and feed (EFSA 2011a), the environmental risk assessment of GM plants (EFSA 2010a), selection of comparators for the risk assessment of GM plants (EFSA, 2011b) and for the post-market environmental monitoring of GM plants (EFSA, 2011c). The scientific risk assessment of maize Bt11 includes molecular characterisation of the inserted DNA and expression of novel proteins, comparative assessment of agronomic and phenotypic characteristics, nutritional assessments, toxicology and allergenicity. An evaluation of unintended effects on plant fitness, potential for gene transfer, interactions between the GM plant and target and non-target organisms, effects on biogeochemical processes, the post-market environmental monitoring plan and coexistence measures at the farm level has also been undertaken. It is emphasised that the VKM mandate does not include assessments of contribution to sustainable development, societal utility and ethical considerations, according to the Norwegian Gene Technology Act and Regulations relating to impact assessment pursuant to the Gene Technology Act. These considerations are therefore not part of the risk assessment provided by the VKM. Molecular Characterization: Appropriate analyses of the integration site, inserted DNA sequence, flanking regions, and bioinformatics have been performed. The molecular characterisation reported by the applicant shows that the DNA-fragment containing the cry1Ab and pat genes, is integrated as a single copy at a single locus in the nuclear genome of maize Bt11 and that it is stably inherited as a dominant trait. VKM considers the molecular characterisation of maize Bt11 satisfactory. Comparative Assessment: Comparative analyses of data from field trials located at representative sites and environments in North America and Europe indicates that maize Bt11 is compositionally equivalent to its conventional counterpart, with the exception of the herbicide tolerance and insect resistance traits, conferred by the expression of the PAT and Cry1Ab proteins. However, data on the amino acid tryptophan, is only given in one out of six studies. Based on current knowledge, VKM concludes that maize Bt11 is compositionally equivalent to conventional maize. The data provided by the applicant are not sufficient to show that Bt11 maize is phenotypically and agronomically equivalent to conventional near-isogenic maize lines. The agronomic assessment data are provided from one growing season in the North America and one growing season in France. This is not considered to be sufficient for representative testing of agricultural environments. Food and Feed Risk Assessment: Whole food feeding studies have not indicated any adverse health effects of maize Bt11. These studies further support that maize Bt11 is nutritionally equivalent to conventional maize. The Cry1Ab and PAT proteins do not show sequence resemblance to other known toxins or IgE allergens, nor have they been reported to cause IgE mediated allergic reactions. Some studies have however indicated a potential role of Cry-proteins as adjuvants in allergic reactions. Based on current knowledge, the VKM concludes that maize Bt11 is nutritionally equivalent to conventional maize varieties. It is unlikely that the Cry1Ab and PAT proteins will introduce a toxic or allergenic potential in food or feed based on maize Bt11 compared to conventional maize. Environmental Risk Assessment: Maize is the only representative of the genus Zea in Europe, and there are no cross-compatible wild or weedy relatives outside cultivated maize with which maize can hybridise and form backcross progeny. Vertical gene transfer in maize therefore depends on cross-pollination with other conventional or organic maize varieties. In addition, unintended admixture of genetically modified material in seeds represents a possible way for gene flow between different crop cultivations. The risk of pollen flow from maize volunteers is negligible under Norwegian growing conditions. Since maize Bt11 has no altered agronomic and phenotypic characteristics, except for the specific target insect resistance and herbicide tolerance, the likelihood of unintended environmental effects as a consequence of spread of genes from maize Bt11 is considered to be extremely low. There are no reports of the target lepidopteran species attaining pest status on maize in Norway. Since there are no Bt-based insecticides approved for use in Norway, and lepidopteran pests have not been registered in maize, issues related to resistance evolution in target pests are not relevant at present for Norwegian agriculture. Published scientific studies showed that the likelihood of negative effects of Cry1Ab protein on non-target arthropods that live on or in the vicinity of maize plants is low. In Norway, the maize cultivation is marginal. The total crop area of forage maize is estimated to 2000-2800 decares, equivalent to less than 0.1% of the areas with cereal crops. The area of individual fields is limited by the topography such that the quantity of maize pollen produced under flowering is also limited. The potential exposure of Cry1Ab-containing maize pollen on non-target lepidopteran species in Norway is therefore negligible. Cultivation of maize Bt11 is not considered to represent a threat to the prevalence of red-listed species in Norway. Exposure of nontarget organisms to Cry proteins in aquatic ecosystems is likely to be very low, and potential exposure of Cry proteins to non-target organisms in aquatic ecosystems in Norway is considered to be negligible. VKM concludes that, although the data on the fate of the Cry1Ab protein and its potential interactions in soil are limited, the relevant scientific publications analysing the Cry1Ab protein, together with the relatively broad knowledge about the environmental fate of other Cry1 proteins, do not indicate significant direct effects on the soil environment. Despite limited number of studies, most studies conclude that effects on soil microorganisms and microbial communities are transient and minor compared to effects caused by agronomic and environmental factors. However, data are only available from short-term experiments and predictions of potential long-term effects are difficult to deduce. Coexistence: VKM concludes that separation distances of 200 meters most likely will ensure coexistence between genetically modified maize and conventional and organic maize varieties in Norway. Overall Conclusion: Based on current knowledge, VKM concludes that maize Bt11 is nutritionally equivalent t

Final Health and Environmental Risk Assessment of Genetically Modified Maize MON 89034 x NK 603

In preparation for a legal implementation of EU-regulation 1829/2003, the Norwegian Scientific Committee for Food Safety (VKM) has been requested by the Norwegian Environment Agency (former Norwegian Directorate for Nature Management) and the Norwegian Food Safety Authority (NFSA) to conduct final food/feed and environmental risk assessments for all genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and products containing or consisting of GMOs that are authorized in the European Union under Directive 2001/18/EC or Regulation 1829/2003/EC. The request covers scope(s) relevant to the Gene Technology Act. The request does not cover GMOs that VKM already has conducted its final risk assessments on. However, the Agency and NFSA requests VKM to consider whether updates or other changes to earlier submitted assessments are necessary. The insect-resistant and glyphosate-tolerant genetically modified maize MON 89034 x NK 603 from Monsanto (Unique Identifier MON-89Ø34-3 × MON-ØØ6Ø3-6) was approved under Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 in the EU for food and feed uses, import and processing on 28 July 2010 (Commission Decision 2010/420/EC). Genetically modified maize MON 890314 x NK 603 has previously been risk assessed by the VKM Panel on Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO), commissioned by the Norwegian Food Safety Authority and the Norwegian Environment Agency related and to the EFSA public hearing of the applications EFSA/GMO/NL/2007/38 and EFSA/GMO/NL/2009/72 in 2007 and 2009/2010 (VKM 2008a, VKM 2010a). In addition, the parental lines MON 89034 and NK 603 have been evaluated by the VKM GMO Panel as single events and as a component of several stacked GM maize events (VKM 2005a,b,c,d,e, VKM 2007a,b, VKM 2008b,c,d, VKM 2009a,b, VKM 2010 a,b, VKM 2011, VKM 2012a,b, VKM 2013 a,b, VKM 2014). The food/feed and environmental risk assessment of the maize MON 89034 x NK 603 is based on information provided by the applicant in the applications EFSA/GMO/NL/2007/38 EFSA/GMO/NL/2009/72 and scientific comments from EFSA and other member states made available on the EFSA website GMO Extranet. The risk assessment also considered other peer-reviewed scientific literature as relevant. The VKM GMO Panel has evaluated MON 89034 x NK 603 with reference to its intended uses in the European Economic Area (EEA), and according to the principles described in the Norwegian Food Act, the Norwegian Gene Technology Act and regulations relating to impact assessment pursuant to the Gene Technology Act, Directive 2001/18/EC on the deliberate release into the environment of genetically modified organisms, and Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 on genetically modified food and feed. The Norwegian Scientific Committee for Food Safety has also decided to take account of the appropriate principles described in the EFSA guidelines for the risk assessment of GM plants and derived food and feed (EFSA 2011a), the environmental risk assessment of GM plants (EFSA 2010a), selection of comparators for the risk assessment of GM plants (EFSA 2011b) and for the post-market environmental monitoring of GM plants (EFSA 2011c). The scientific risk assessment of maize MON 89034 x NK 603 include molecular characterisation of the inserted DNA and expression of novel proteins, comparative assessment of agronomic and phenotypic characteristics, nutritional assessments, toxicology and allergenicity, unintended effects on plant fitness, potential for gene transfer, effects on biogeochemical processes and interactions between the GM plant and target and non-target organisms. It is emphasized that the VKM mandate does not include assessments of contribution to sustainable development, societal utility and ethical considerations, according to the Norwegian Gene Technology Act and Regulations relating to impact assessment pursuant to the Gene Technology Act. These considerations are therefore not part of the risk assessment provided by the VKM Panel on Genetically Modified Organisms. Likewise, the VKM mandate does not include evaluations of herbicide residues in food and feed from genetically modified plants. The hybrid maize MON 89034 x NK 603 has been produced by conventional crosses between inbred lines containing MON 89034 and NK 603 events to combine resistance to certain lepidopteran pests and to confer tolerance towards glyphosate-containing herbicides. Maize MON 89034 was developed to provide protection against specific lepidopteran target pest, including Ostrinia nubilalis, S podoptera spp. and Agrotis ipsilon. Protection is achieved through expression in the plant of two insecticidal Cry proteins, Cry1A.105 and Cry2Ab2, derived from Baci llus thuringiensis subsp. a izawai and kurstaki. Maize NK 603 has been developed to provide tolerance to glyphosate by the introduction, of a gene coding for 5enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase (EPSPS) from Agrobacterium sp. strain CP4 (CP4 EPSPS). Molecular Characterisation: Southern and PCR analyses indicate that the recombinant inserts in the single maize events MON 89034 and NK 603 are retained in maize stack MON 89034 x NK603. Genetic stability of the inserts has previously been demonstrated in the parental lines MON 89034and NK603. The level of Cry1A.105, Cry2Ab2 and CP4 EPSPS proteins in grain and forage from the stacked event are comparable to the levels in the corresponding single events. Phenotypic analyses also indicate stability of the insect resistance and herbicide tolerance traits of the stacked event. Based on current knowledge and the previous assessments of the parental maize events, the VKM GMO Panel considers the molecular characterisation of maize MON 89034 x NK 603 satisfactory. 6 VKM Report 2016: 17. Comparative Assessment: The applicant has performed comparative analyses of data from field trials located at representative sites and environments in Argentina in 2004/2005 and Europe in 2007. With the exception of small intermittent variations and the insect resistance and herbicide tolerance conferred by the Cry1A.105, Cry2Ab2 and CP4 EPSPS proteins, the results showed no biologically relevant differences between maize stack MON 89034 x NK 603 and conventional control. Based on the assessment of available data, the VKM GMO Panel concludes that maize MON 89034 x NK 603 is compositionally, agronomical and phenotypically equivalent to its conventional counterpart, except for the new proteins. Food/feed Safety Assessment: A whole food feeding study on broilers has not indicated any adverse health effects of maize MON 89034 x NK 603, and shows that it is nutritionally equivalent to conventional maize varieties. The Cry1A.105, Cry2Ab2, and CP4 EPSPS proteins do not show sequence resemblance to other known toxins or IgE allergens, nor have they been reported to cause IgE mediated allergic reactions. However, some studies have indicated a potential role of Cry-proteins as adjuvants in allergic reactions. Based on current knowledge, the VKM GMO Panel concludes that maize MON 89034 x NK 603 is nutritionally equivalent to conventional maize varieties. It is unlikely that the Cry1A.105, Cry2Ab2, and CP4 EPSPS proteins will cause toxic or IgE-mediated allergic reactions to food or feed based on maize MON 89034 x NK 603 compared to conventional maize. Environmental Risk: Considering the intended uses of maize MON 89034 x NK603, excluding cultivation, the environmental risk assessment is concerned with accidental release into the environment of viable grains during transportation and processing, and indirect exposure, mainly through manure and faeces from animals fed grains from maize MON 89034 x NK603. Maize MON 89034 x NK 603 has no altered survival, multiplication or dissemination characteristics, and there are no indications of an increased likelihood of spread and establishment of feral maize plants in the case of accidental release into the environment of seeds from maize MON 89034 x NK603. Maize is the only representative of the genus Zea in Europe, and there are no cross-compatible wild or weedy relatives outside cultivation. The VKM GMO Panel considers the risk of gene flow from occasional feral GM maize plants to conventional maize varieties to be negligible in Norway. Considering the intended use as food and feed, interactions with the biotic and abiotic environment are not considered by the GMO Panel to be an issue. 7 VKM Report 2016: 17. Overall Conclusion: Based on current knowledge, the VKM GMO Panel concludes that maize MON 89034 x NK 603 is compositionally, nutritionally, agronomically and phenotypically equivalent to its conventional counterpart except for the new proteins. It is unlikely that the Cry1A.105, Cry2Ab2 and CP4 EPSPS proteins will cause an increased risk of toxic or IgE-mediated allergic reactions to food or feed based on maize MON 89034 x NK 603 compared to conventional maize varieties. The VKM GMO Panel concludes that maize MON 89034 x NK603, based on current knowledge, is comparable to conventional maize varieties concerning environmental risk in Norway with the intended usage.