Different microbial communities in paddy soils under organic and nonorganic farming.

Organic agriculture is a farming method that provides healthy food and is friendly to the environment, and it is developing rapidly worldwide. This study compared microbial communities in organic farming (Or) paddy fields to those in nonorganic farming (Nr) paddy fields based on 16S rDNA sequencing and analysis. The predominant microorganisms in both soils were Proteobacteria, Chloroflexi, Acidobacteria, Actinobacteria, and Nitrospirota. The alpha diversity of the paddy soil microbial communities was not different between the nonorganic and organic farming systems. The beta diversity of nonmetric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) revealed that the two groups were significantly separated. Distance-based redundancy analysis (db-RDA) suggested that soil pH and electrical conductivity (EC) had a positive relationship with the microbes in organic paddy soils. There were 23 amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) that showed differential abundance. Among them, g_B1-7BS (Proteobacteria), s_Sulfuricaulis limicola (Proteobacteria), g_GAL15 (p_GAL15), c_Thermodesulfovibrionia (Nitrospirota), two of f_Anaerolineaceae (Chloroflexi), and two of g_S085 (Chloroflexi) showed that they were more abundant in organic soils, whereas g_11-24 (Acidobacteriota), g__Subgroup_7 (Acidobacteriota), and g_Bacillus (Firmicutes) showed differential abundance in nonorganic paddy soils. Functional prediction of microbial communities in paddy soils showed that functions related to carbohydrate metabolism could be the major metabolic activities. Our work indicates that organic farming differs from nonorganic farming in terms of microbial composition in paddy soils and provides specific microbes that might be helpful for understanding soil fertility.

The endophytobiome of wild Rubiaceae as a source of antagonistic fungi against the American Leaf Spot of coffee (Mycena citricolor).

AIMS: The American leaf spot, caused by Mycena citricolor, is an important disease of coffee (Coffea arabica), mostly in Central America. Currently, there are limited pathogen control alternatives that are environment friendly and economically accessible. The use of fungi isolated from the plant endomycobiota in their native habitats is on the rise because studies show their great potential for biological control. To begin to generate a green alternative to control M. citricolor, the objectives of the present study were to (i) collect, identify, screen (in vitro and in planta), and select endophytic fungi from wild Rubiaceae collected in old-growth forests of Costa Rica; (ii) confirm endophytic colonization in coffee plantlets; (iii) evaluate the effects of the endophytes on plantlet development; and (iv) corroborate the antagonistic ability in planta. METHODS AND RESULTS: Through in vitro and in planta antagonism assays, we found that out of the selected isolates (i.e. Daldinia eschscholzii GU11N, Nectria pseudotrichia GUHN1, Purpureocillium aff. lilacinum CT24, Sarocladium aff. kiliense CT25, Trichoderma rifaii CT5, T. aff. crassum G1C, T. aff. atroviride G7T, T. aff. strigosellum GU12, and Xylaria multiplex GU14T), Trichoderma spp. produced the highest growth inhibition percentages in vitro. Trichoderma isolates CT5 and G1C were then tested in planta using Coffea arabica cv. caturra plantlets. Endophytic colonization was verified, followed by in planta growth promotion and antagonism assays. CONCLUSIONS: Results show that Trichoderma isolates CT5 and G1C have potential for plant growth promotion and antagonism against Mycena citricolor, reducing incidence and severity, and preventing plant mortality.

COVID-19: una oportunidad para revitalizar la autonomía alimentaria en comunidades indígenas / COVID-19: an opportunity to revitalize food autonomy in indigenous communities / Covid-19: uma oportunidade para revitalizar a autonomia alimentar nas comunidades indígenas

Resumen La autonomía alimentaria permite a las comunidades determinar sus prácticas alimentarias, comenzando con la producción agrícola en sus territorios garantizando la economía propia y la armonía con la madre tierra, en este contexto, la pandemia por COVID-19 generó cambios en las practicas sociales en las comunidades indígenas, incluidas sus prácticas alimentarias. Objetivo: Describir prácticas de autonomía alimentaria revitalizadas a partir del confinamiento por COVID-19 en una comunidad indígena Nasa del sur de Colombia. Método: Estudio cualitativo orientado en investigación participativa basada en comunidad (CBPR) realizado en una comunidad indígena Nasa del sur de Colombia. La recolección e interpretación de información se efectuó con técnicas de la investigación cualitativa: codificación abierta y axial y hasta llegar a la descripción de categorías emergentes. Resultados: Se fortalecieron prácticas ancestrales del sistema alimentario para mejorar el acceso a los alimentos sanos producidos en sus territorios, dentro de las que se destacan: tul (huerta familiar), trueque, mano-cambio, mercado Nasa y recetas tradicionales. Conclusiones: El confinamiento representó una oportunidad para retomar y revitalizar las prácticas alimentarias ancestrales de la comunidad que respondieron a necesidades concretas de salud y de alimentación, fortaleciendo el tejido social y la identidad indígena, acciones que pueden trascender a políticas públicas, planes de vida y aspiraciones de buen vivir.

Abstract Food autonomy allows communities to determine their food practices, starting with agricultural production in their territories, guaranteeing their own economy and harmony with Mother Earth. In this context, the COVID-19 pandemic generated changes in social practices in the communities. indigenous communities, including their food practices. Objective: Describe food autonomy practices revitalized following the COVID-19 confinement in a Nasa indigenous community in southern Colombia. Method: Qualitative study oriented on community-based participatory research (CBPR) carried out in a Nasa indigenous community in southern Colombia. The collection and interpretation of information was carried out with qualitative research techniques: open and axial coding and until reaching the description of emerging categories. Results: Ancestral practices of the food system were strengthened to improve access to healthy foods produced in their territories, among which the following stand out: tul (family garden), barter, hand-exchange, Nasa market and traditional recipes. Conclusions: Confinement represented an opportunity to resume and revitalize the community's ancestral food practices that responded to specific health and food needs, strengthening the social fabric and indigenous identity, actions that can transcend public policies, life plans and aspirations for a good life.

Abstract A autonomia alimentar permite que as comunidades determinem suas práticas alimentares, começando pela produção agrícola em seus territórios, garantindo sua própria economia e harmonia com a Mãe Terra. Nesse contexto, a pandemia da Covid-19 gerou mudanças nas práticas sociais nas comunidades indígenas, incluindo suas práticas alimentares. Objetivo: Descrever as práticas de autonomia alimentar revitalizadas após o confinamento da COVID-19 em uma comunidade indígena Nasa no sul da Colômbia. Método: Estudo qualitativo orientado à pesquisa participativa de base comunitária (CBPR) realizada em uma comunidade indígena Nasa no sul da Colômbia. A coleta e interpretação das informações foram realizadas com técnicas de pesquisa qualitativa: codificação aberta e axial e até chegar à descrição das categorias emergentes. Resultados: As práticas ancestrais do sistema alimentar foram fortalecidas para melhorar o acesso aos alimentos saudáveis produzidos em seus territórios, entre os quais se destacam: tul (horta familiar), escambo, troca de mãos, mercado Nasa e receitas tradicionais. Conclusões: O confinamento representou uma oportunidade para retomar e revitalizar as práticas alimentares ancestrais da comunidade que respondiam às necessidades específicas de saúde e alimentação, fortalecendo o tecido social e a identidade indígena, ações que podem transcender as políticas públicas, os planos de vida e as aspirações por uma vida boa.

Seed treatment: importance of products and equipment / Tratamento de sementes: importância dos produtos e equipamentos

Seed treatment is extremely important and beneficial for all crops, which aims to eliminate and control fungi, insects and other pests that attack seeds, seedlings and plants. For this, it is necessary to use new technologies and agricultural equipment that help in the treatment of these seeds, making the producer more profitable. This literary review aims todescribe different types of seed treatments and agricultural equipment that can help in this process. This study took place between October and November 2022 and used different works as a basis to develop this review, in which it can be seen that the demand for seed treatment in Brazil has increased in relation to the use of fungicides and application technologies and equipment. , where it can be concluded that seed treatment is constantly evolving, both with regard to seed treatment equipment and the chemical and biological products used.(AU)

O tratamento de sementes é de extrema importância e benéfica para todas as culturas, na qual tem por objetivo a eliminação, controle de fungos, insetos e outras pragas que atacam sementes, mudas e plantas. Para isso se faz necessário o uso de novas tecnologias e equipamentos agrícolas que auxiliam no tratamento dessas sementes, fazendo com que haja uma maior rentabilidade ao produtor. Está revisão literária têm como objetivo descrever diferentes tipos de tratamentos de sementes e equipamentos agrícolas que podem auxiliar nesse processo. Este estudo ocorreu entre os meses de outubro e novembro de 2022 e usou como base diferentes trabalhos para desenvolver está revisão, na qual pode perceber que a demanda por tratamento de sementes no Brasil tem aumentado em relação ao uso de fungicidas e tecnologias e equipamentos de aplicação, onde pode-se concluir que o tratamento de sementes está em constante evolução, tanto no que diz respeito aos equipamentos de tratamento de sementes quanto aos produtos químicos e biológicos utilizados.(AU)

Agricultural practices in Brazilian organic farms and microbiological characteristics of samples collected along the production chain.

AIMS: To gather data on agricultural practices in organic farms in Sao Paulo, Brazil, and evaluate their relationship with the microbiological characteristics of samples collected along the production chain. METHODS AND RESULTS: Practices data were based on field observations and interviews with farmers in 10 selected organic lettuce producing farms. Counts of Enterobacteriaceae and surveys for Salmonella were performed in samples of lettuce (before and after washing), fertilizers, irrigation and washing water, all collected in the same farm. Water samples were also tested for total coliforms and generic Escherichia coli. Isolated Enterobacteriaceae were identified by MALDI-TOF MS. Contamination of lettuce was influenced by some agricultural practices: chicken manure-based fertilization resulted in higher Enterobacteriaceae counts in lettuce when compared to other types of manure, whereas pre-washed lettuces presented lower microbial counts than non-pre-washed samples. Salmonella was detected in one lettuce sample by qPCR. Escherichia coli was detected in all irrigation water samples. All sample types contained Enterobacteriaceae species commonly reported as opportunistic human pathogens. CONCLUSIONS: The data highlight the need for improvement in the good agricultural practices in the studied farms. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY: This study provides information on agricultural practices and microbiological characteristics of organic lettuce, contributing to the development of more accurate risk assessments.

Investigando os olhares da saúde coletiva sobre a agroecologia / Investigating the views of collective health on agroecology

RESUMO A agroecologia tem sido objeto no campo da saúde coletiva/pública de maneira crescente nas duas últimas décadas no Brasil. Conforme o tema ganha relevância, importa verificar como o campo tem abordado a agroecologia, tendo em vista a persistência de tendências à redução e ao esvaziamento no processo de apropriação de conceitos ao campo. Artigos científicos da saúde foram analisados por procedimentos da análise de conteúdo e da análise do discurso, atentando aos sentidos e temas mais recorrentes, bem como às ausências nas abordagens sobre agroecologia. Resultados mostram que abordagens de tendência mais normativa/regulatória da saúde coletiva tendem a se associar à vertente mais técnica da agroecologia; silenciamentos sobre legitimidade da origem 'tradicional'/'indígena'/'popular' e sobre o protagonismo das mulheres na construção do conhecimento agroecológico; a importância histórica de movimentos populares na constituição desse campo científico; e, ainda, apontam o reconhecimento da agroecologia enquanto um campo que, como o da saúde coletiva, está em disputa. Fazem-se considerações sobre a redução da agroecologia a um sistema ecológico de produção que 'naturalmente promove saúde' e possíveis repercussões para cooptação da pauta agroecológica pelos discursos hegemônicos. Reflete-se sobre a importância da apropriação crítica de conceitos no diálogo entre os campos.

ABSTRACT Agroecology has been an object in collective/public health in an increasing way in the last two decades. As its gains relevance, it is important to verify how Brazilian academic health literature has addressed agroecology, considering the persistent tendencies towards reduction, standardization and emptying when concepts are appropriated by the field. Scientific papers in health were analyzed through content and speech analysis, paying attention to the recurring meanings and themes, as well as to the 'absences' in health discourses related to agroecology. Results show that collective health instrumental approaches tend to be associated with more 'technical' agroecology perspectives; persistent silencing related to 'traditional '/'indigenous'/'popular' and woman protagonism in agroecological knowledge construction; recognition of the emergence of agroecology as a scientific field as part of the historic popular movements struggle; and, further, to the consideration of agroecology as a scientific field that is in dispute, just like collective health. Considerations are made involving the reduction of agroecology as an ecological-based agricultural system that 'naturally promotes health', and its possible repercussions in agroecological agenda cooptation. It is discussed the importance of critical appropriation of concepts in deepening dialogues between the fields of collective health and agroecology.

Distribuição espacial e preço praticado em equipamentos públicos de comercialização de alimentos orgânicos / Spatial distribution and price priced on public markets of organic foods / Distribución espacial y tarificación de equipos públicos para la comercialización de alimentos orgánicos

Este estudo comparou a existência de pontos de comercialização de frutas e hortaliças provenientes de sistemas de produção convencional e orgânicos, verificando diferenças nos preços desses alimentos em Curitiba (PR). A coleta de dados aconteceu em 2018, mapeando os pontos de venda cadastrados na Secretaria Municipal de Abastecimento de Curitiba, registrando os alimentos ofertados (convencional e orgânico), e os preços de frutas, legumes e verduras, listados no instrumento de avaliação de estabelecimentos de comercialização dos alimentos para consumo em domicílio (ESAO-s Feiras Livres). Realizou-se o cálculo da razão de preços do dia, registrado conforme os preços praticados na central de abastecimento de Curitiba. Os alimentos convencionais foram encontrados em mais pontos (n =74) em relação aos alimentos orgânicos (n = 15). A oferta dos orgânicos ficou limitada a áreas mais centrais e regiões com maior renda. A maioria dos orgânicos apresentaram preços mais altos que os convencionais. Foi demonstrado que existem desigualdades na distribuição espacial e no preço entre frutas e hortaliças orgânicas e convencionais, indicando que a população do município não tem qualidade no acesso a estes alimentos, dispendendo valores maiores, caso queira optar por escolhas orgânicas.

The study compared the existence of points of commercialization of fruits and vegetables from conventional and organic production systems and verifying differences in the prices of these foods in Curitiba, Paraná. Data collection took place in 2018, mapping the points of sale registered with the Curitiba Municipal Secretariat of Supply, registering the foods offered (conventional / organic), and the prices of fruits and vegetables, listed in the Instrument of Evaluation of establishments in marketing of food for consumption at home (ESAO-s Feiras Livres). The price ratio of the day was calculated, recorded according to the prices practiced at the Central de Abastecimento of Curitiba. Conventional foods were found in more points (n = 74) in relation to organic foods (n = 15). The supply of organics was limited to more central areas, a region with higher income. Most organic products had higher prices than conventional ones. It has been shown that there are inequalities in the spatial distribution and in the price between organic and conventional fruits and vegetables, indicating that the population of the municipality does not have quality access to these foods and may have higher values if they want to choose organic choices.

El estudio comparó la existencia de puntos de comercialización de frutas y verduras de sistemas de producción convencionales y orgánicos, y verificó diferencias en los precios de estos alimentos en Curitiba, Paraná. La recolección de datos se llevó a cabo en 2018, mapeando los puntos de venta registrados en la Secretaría de Abastecimiento Municipal de Curitiba, registrando los alimentos ofertados (convencionales / orgánicos), y los precios de frutas y verduras, enumerados en el Instrumento de Evaluación de Establecimientos de comercialización de alimentos para consumo en el hogar (ESAO-s Feiras Livres). Se calculó la ratio de precios del día, registrado de acuerdo con los precios practicados en la Central de Abastecimento de Curitiba. Los alimentos convencionales se encontraron en más puntos (n = 74) con relación a los alimentos orgánicos (n = 15). La oferta de productos orgánicos se limitó a áreas más centrales, una región con mayores ingresos. La mayoría de los orgánicos tenían precios más altos que los convencionales. Se ha demostrado que existen desigualdades en la distribución espacial y en el precio entre frutas y verduras orgánicas y convencionales, lo que indica que la población del municipio no tiene acceso de calidad a estos alimentos y puede tener valores más altos si así lo desea elija opciones orgánicas.

Coliformes totais e fecais em hortaliças de cultivos convencional, hidropônico e orgânico / Total and fecal coliforms in conventional, hydroponic and organic crops

Objetivo ­ Analisar e comparar a presença de coliformes totais e fecais em hortaliças de cultivos convencional, hidropônico e orgânico. Métodos ­ A presença de coliformes totais e fecais foi analisada em amostras de alface, da variedade crespa (Lactuca sativa var. cripa), a partir do seu enriquecimento com água peptonada 0,1% para inoculá-las em diluições de 10-1, 10-2 e 10-3 em Petrifilm EC (3M Company). Após a incubação a 37°C por 24 horas, as colônias foram contadas e o resultado foi expresso como UFC.g-1 de coliformes totais e UFC.g-1 de Escherichia coli. Resultados ­ Foram analisadas seis amostras de alface, sendo duas de cultivo tradicional, três de cultivo orgânico e uma de cultivo hidropônico. Somente uma delas se apresentou própria para consumo, uma vez que o número de coliformes totais não ultrapassou o limite exigido pela vigilância sanitária. Além disso, uma das amostras de alface orgânica estava contaminada com coliformes fecais. Conclusão ­ O presente estudo evidenciou que a maioria das amostras de alface orgânica apresentou um número maior de coliformes totais quando comparado aos outros tipos de cultivo, e uma delas estava contaminada com E. coli. Além disso, a maioria mostrou-se em desacordo com o padrão microbiológico estabelecido pela legislação brasileira

Objective ­ To analyze and compare the presence of total and fecal coliforms in conventional, hydroponic and organic crops. Methods ­ The presence of total and fecal coliforms was analyzed in lettuce samples from the crespa variety (Lactuca sativa var. Cripa) from their enrichment with 0.1% peptone water to inoculate them in 10-1, 10-2 and 10-3 in Petrifilm EC (3M Company). After incubation at 37 °C for 24 hours, the colonies were counted and the result was expressed as UFC.g-1 of total coliforms and UFC.g-1 of Escherichia coli. Results ­ Six lettuce samples were analyzed, two of them being traditional, three organic and one hydroponic. Only one of them presented itself for consumption, since the number of total coliforms did not exceed the limit required by sanitary surveillance. In addition, one of the organic lettuce samples was contaminated with fecal coliforms. Conclusion ­ The present study showed that the majority of the organic lettuce samples presented a higher number of total coliforms when compared to the other types of culture, and one of them was contaminated with E. coli. In addition, the majority were in disagreement with the microbiological standard established by Brazilian legislation

Organic agriculture and rural networks in the mountain environments of Região serrana fluminense, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

This paper presents a case study on organic agriculture at Região Serrana Fluminense, Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil. We sought to understand what was the role of organic farming, and if it can be considered as an aggregating element between different kinds of people or groups who were located in the same region. The methodology used to carry out this investigation was based on the concept of the rural network, which enabled us to comprehend the articulations and connections that comprise the organic agriculture circuit in the mountains of this specific region.

Cytogenetic toxicity from pesticide and trace element mixtures in soils used for conventional and organic crops of Allium cepa L.

Pesticides and trace elements occur in complex mixtures in agroecosystems, affecting soil health and food security. Hence, it is necessary to determine their toxicity in field conditions and to develop monitoring approaches to assess conventional and organic agriculture. The aim of this research was to evaluate the associations between Allium cepa L. cytogenetic biomarkers and the realistic mixture of pesticides and trace elements found in soils of conventional, conversion, and organic crops in an intensive agricultural region in Colombia. Pesticide screening was conducted using GC-MS/MS and LC-MS/MS methods. Arsenic, cadmium, lead, and zinc were analyzed by ICP-MS; chromium, copper, nickel, and selenium by ICP-OES; and mercury by a direct analyzer. The meristematic cells in roots of Allium cepa L. were analyzed through microscopic observations to quantify cytogenetic effects. In conventional crops, 26 pesticides were detected in the soil samples, and those were below the limit of quantification in organic crops. The mean levels of As, Cd, Cr, Ni, Pb, and Se were also greater in soils of conventional crops compared to the organics. In addition, the biomarkers of cytotoxicity and genotoxicity appeared augmented in conventional samples, and those were correlated with pesticide and trace element concentrations, pollution indices, and hazard quotients. Subsequently, a discriminant function based on the mitotic index, chromosomal aberrations, and nuclear abnormalities was suitable to classify the samples by crop type. These results demonstrate the sensitivity of Allium cepa L. to the toxicity of complex mixtures in field crops and its potential as an in-situ approach for soil health monitoring in organic and conventional crop systems.

Belowground fungal community diversity, composition and ecological functionality associated with winter wheat in conventional and organic agricultural systems.

Understanding the impacts of agricultural practices on belowground fungal communities is crucial in order to preserve biological diversity in agricultural soils and enhance their role in agroecosystem functioning. Although fungal communities are widely distributed, relatively few studies have correlated agricultural production practices. We investigated the diversity, composition and ecological functionality of fungal communities in roots of winter wheat (Triticum aestivum) growing in conventional and organic farming systems. Direct and nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplifications spanning the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of the rDNA from pooled fine root samples were performed with two different sets of fungal specific primers. Fungal identification was carried out through similarity searches against validated reference sequences (RefSeq). The R package 'picante' and FUNGuild were used to analyse fungal community composition and trophic mode, respectively. Either by direct or cloning sequencing, 130 complete ITS sequences were clustered into 39 operational taxonomic units (OTUs) (25 singletons), belonging to the Ascomycota (24), the Basidiomycota (14) and to the Glomeromycota (1). Fungal communities from conventional farming sites are phylogenetically more related than expected by chance. Constrained ordination analysis identified total N, total S and Pcal that had a significant effect on the OTU's abundance and distribution, and a further correlation with the diversity of the co-occurring vegetation could be hypothesised. The functional predictions based on FUNGuild suggested that conventional farming increased the presence of plant pathogenic fungi compared with organic farming. Based on diversity, OTU distribution, nutrition mode and the significant phylogenetic clustering of fungal communities, this study shows that fungal communities differ across sampling sites, depending on agricultural practices. Although it is not fully clear which factors determine the fungal communities, our findings suggest that organic farming systems have a positive effect on fungal communities in winter wheat crops.

Prevalence of Early- and Late-Season Pest Damage to Corn in Cover Crop-Based Reduced-Tillage Organic Systems.

In organic agronomic cropping systems, the use of synthetic insecticides and transgenic varieties are prohibited and producers rely mainly on biological control, tillage, crop rotation, and other cultural practices to manage pests. We measured damage to organic corn (Zea mays L.) from multiple invertebrate pests, including slugs (Gastropoda: Mollusca), European corn borer (Ostrinia nubilalis Hübner), corn earworm (Helicoverpa zea Boddie), and fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda Smith), early and late in the growing season in four cropping systems that varied in tillage frequency and intensity and in winter cover crop species. Specific management tactics included two cover crop mixtures preceding corn, the use of a roller-crimper or tillage to terminate cover crops preceding corn, and the establishment of interseeded cover crops after corn emergence. Prevalence of early-season damage was high, but severity of damage was very low and unrelated to corn yield. The proportion of corn plants affected by chewing pests early in the season was lower in plots in which tillage compared to a roller-crimper was used to terminate cover crops. Cropping system did not affect the numbers of late-season caterpillar pests or corn yield. Predation by natural enemies appeared to effectively maintain damage from chewing pests below yield-damaging levels. These results support the inclusion of winter and interseeded cover crops in organic agronomic crop rotations to gain environmental benefits without increasing risks of damage by insect pests.

Agricultural Use of Copper and Its Link to Alzheimer's Disease.

Copper is an essential nutrient for plants, animals, and humans because it is an indispensable component of several essential proteins and either lack or excess are harmful to human health. Recent studies revealed that the breakdown of the regulation of copper homeostasis could be associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD), the most common form of dementia. Copper accumulation occurs in human aging and is thought to increase the risk of AD for individuals with a susceptibility to copper exposure. This review reports that one of the leading causes of copper accumulation in the environment and the human food chain is its use in agriculture as a plant protection product against numerous diseases, especially in organic production. In the past two decades, some countries and the EU have invested in research to reduce the reliance on copper. However, no single alternative able to replace copper has been identified. We suggest that agroecological approaches are urgently needed to design crop protection strategies based on the complementary actions of the wide variety of crop protection tools for disease control.

Consumer preferences toward organic food and the moderating role of knowledge: a case of Pakistan and Malaysia / Fatores que afetam as preferências do consumidor na intenção de compra de alimentos orgânicos e o papel moderador do conhecimento no Paquistão e na Malásia

The present study aimed to identify the elements of the Theory of Planned Behaviour along with health consciousness and determine the role of knowledge as a moderating variable in Pakistan and Malaysia. Three hundred and forty-one observations from Pakistan and 280 observations from Malaysia were acquired through questionnaire; while, confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modelling was applied for the analysis. The magnitude of the results varied across both countries; however, attitude, subjective norms and health consciousness, as well as their interaction terms, were significant predictors, whereas, perceived behavioural control and its knowledge interaction terms had insignificant impacts on the purchase intentions of consumers for both countries. This research will help to further understand about consumer perception in the purchase of organic food items, which will assist retailers, advertisers and manufacturers in developing strategies for such products.(AU)

O presente estudo teve como objetivo identificar os elementos da teoria do comportamento planejado juntamente com a consciência em saúde, e determinar o papel do conhecimento como uma variável moderadora no Paquistão e na Malásia. 341 observações do Paquistão e 280 observações da Malásia foram adquiridas através de questionário; enquanto que análise fatorial confirmatória e modelagem de equações estruturais foram aplicadas para a análise. A magnitude dos resultados variou entre os dois países. No entanto, atitudes, normas subjetivas e consciência da saúde, bem como seus termos de interação, foram preditores significativos, enquanto que controle comportamental percebido e seus termos de interação do conhecimento tiveram impactos insignificantes nas intenções de compra dos consumidores para os dois países. Esta pesquisa ajudará a entender melhor a percepção do consumidor na compra de alimentos orgânicos, o que ajudará varejistas, anunciantes e fabricantes no desenvolvimento de estratégias para esses produtos.(AU)

Contrasting Patterns of Functional Diversity in Coffee Root Fungal Communities Associated with Organic and Conventionally Managed Fields.

The structure and function of fungal communities in the coffee rhizosphere are influenced by crop environment. Because coffee can be grown along a management continuum from conventional application of pesticides and fertilizers in full sun to organic management in a shaded understory, we used coffee fields to hold host constant while comparing rhizosphere fungal communities under markedly different environmental conditions with regard to shade and inputs. We characterized the shade and soil environment in 25 fields under conventional, organic, or transitional management in two regions of Costa Rica. We amplified the internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) region of fungal DNA from coffee roots in these fields and characterized the rhizosphere fungal community via high-throughput sequencing. Sequences were assigned to guilds to determine differences in functional diversity and trophic structure among coffee field environments. Organic fields had more shade, a greater richness of shade tree species, and more leaf litter and were less acidic, with lower soil nitrate availability and higher soil copper, calcium, and magnesium availability than conventionally managed fields, although differences between organic and conventionally managed fields in shade and calcium and magnesium availability depended on region. Differences in richness and community composition of rhizosphere fungi between organic and conventionally managed fields were also correlated with shade, soil acidity, and nitrate and copper availability. Trophic structure differed with coffee field management. Saprotrophs, plant pathogens, and mycoparasites were more diverse, and plant pathogens were more abundant, in organic than in conventionally managed fields, while saprotroph-plant pathogens were more abundant in conventionally managed fields. These differences reflected environmental differences and depended on region.IMPORTANCE Rhizosphere fungi play key roles in ecosystems as nutrient cyclers, pathogens, and mutualists, yet little is currently known about which environmental factors and how agricultural management may influence rhizosphere fungal communities and their functional diversity. This field study of the coffee agroecosystem suggests that organic management not only fosters a greater overall diversity of fungi, but it also maintains a greater richness of saprotrophic, plant-pathogenic, and mycoparasitic fungi that has implications for the efficiency of nutrient cycling and regulation of plant pathogen populations in agricultural systems. As well as influencing community composition and richness of rhizosphere fungi, shade management and use of fungicides and synthetic fertilizers altered the trophic structure of the coffee agroecosystem.

Compra e venda de alimentos orgânicos para a alimentação escolar: dificuldades e estratégias de superação / Purchase and sale of organic foods for school feeding: difficulties and strategies to overcome

Objetivo: Foram avaliadas as dificuldades no processo de compra /venda de produtos orgânicos da agricultura familiar para a alimentação escolar em 21 municípios do Sul do Brasil e identificadas as ações para superá-las. Métodos: Estudo quali-quantitativo realizado mediante entrevistas semiestruturadas com 111 informantes-chave envolvidos na alimentação escolar. Os entrevistados foram arguidos sobre as dificuldades da compra / venda de alimentos orgânicos para a alimentação escolar e sobre as ações que estão sendo desenvolvidas e/ou em planejamento para superação dessas problemáticas. Realizou-se análise descritiva das perguntas fechadas com base na distribuição da frequência e análise de conteúdo com codificação e categorização das questões abertas. Resultados: A maioria dos municípios (n=19) não comprava alimentos orgânicos provenientes da agricultura familiar. A pouca disponibilidade de mercado fornecedor e a baixa produção de alimentos orgânicos foram as dificuldades mais relatadas. Em contrapartida, os custos elevados dos produtos e a ausência de interesse da gestão pública na aquisição de alimentos orgânicos foram dificuldades pouco citadas. Os entrevistados apontaram que a compra/venda poderia aumentar com o fortalecimento dos processos de certificação participativa e se os envolvidos tivessem maiores informações sobre os benefícios e riscos dos modelos produtivos. Conclusões: Evidenciaram-se o fortalecimento da assistência técnica e extensão rural, desenvolvimento das regulamentações e incentivos para a certificação orgânica, apoio e investimento para a certificação participativa e orientações técnicas são estratégias necessárias para o incentivo da produção e consumo de alimentos orgânicos na alimentação humana. (AU)

Objective: To evaluate the difficulties in the process of buying/selling organic products from family farming for school meals in 21 municipalities in southern Brazil and to take actions to overcome them. Methods: This is a qualitative and quantitative study through semi-structured interviews with 111 key informants involved in school meals. The interviewees were asked about the difficulties of buying/selling organic food for school meals and about the actions developed and/or in planning to overcome these problems. Descriptive analysis of closed questions was performed based on frequency distribution and content analysis with coding and categorization of open questions. Results: Most municipalities (n = 19) did not buy organic food from family farming. The limited availability of the supplier market and the low production of organic foods were the most reported difficulties. On the other hand, the high costs of the products and the lack of interest by the public management in the acquisition of organic foods were difficulties little mentioned. Respondents highlighted that buying/selling could increase with the strengthening of participatory certification processes and if those involved had more information about the benefits and risks of productive models. Conclusions: The strengthening of technical assistance and rural extension, development of regulations and incentives for organic certification, support and investment for participatory certification, and technical guidelines were necessary strategies to encourage the production and consumption of organic human food. (AU)

O reflexo da ausência de políticas de incentivo à agricultura urbana orgânica: um estudo de caso em duas cidades no Brasil / Results of lack of policies to encourage urban organic farming: a case study in two Brazilian cities / El reflejo de la ausencia de políticas de incentivo a la agricultura urbana orgánica: un estudio de caso en dos ciudades en Brasil

A agricultura urbana orgânica é um importante estímulo para o desenvolvimento sustentável das cidades, contribuindo para a segurança alimentar, melhoria do meio ambiente, inclusão social e geração de renda. O objetivo deste estudo foi caracterizar as principais dificuldades que o agricultor urbano orgânico enfrenta em municípios onde não há políticas de incentivo à agricultura urbana. Para isso, entrevistas semiestruturadas foram aplicadas entre julho e dezembro de 2018, com sete agricultores urbanos orgânicos que adotam a prática como profissão. Os resultados foram examinados conforme análise de conteúdo e apontaram carências como a ausência de mão de obra capacitada, falta de máquinas e equipamentos adequados à prática em pequenos espaços e insuficiência de recursos financeiros, insuficiências semelhantes às da agricultura familiar orgânica. Portanto, é fundamental a ampliação de políticas de fomento à agricultura urbana orgânica, contemplando tais aspectos no sentido de diminuir os obstáculos e estimular a profissão.

Urban organic farming is an important stimulus for cities' sustainable development, contributing to food security, environmental improvement, social inclusion, and income generation. This study aimed to assess the main difficulties faced by urban organic farmers in cities where there are no policies to encourage urban farming. Semi-structured interviews were applied from July to December 2018 with seven urban organic farmers who had adopted this practice as their profession. The results were examined with content analysis, detecting such gaps as lack of trained labor, lack of adequate machinery and equipment for this practice in small areas, and insufficient financing, all of which were similar to family organic farming. It is thus essential to expand policies to promote urban organic farming, addressing these issues to decrease the barriers and stimulate the profession.

La agricultura urbana orgánica es un importante estímulo para el desarrollo sostenible de las ciudades, contribuyendo a la seguridad alimentaria, mejora del medio ambiente, inclusión social y generación de renta. El objetivo de este estudio fue caracterizar las principales dificultades que el agricultor urbano orgánico enfrenta en municipios donde no existen políticas de incentivo para la agricultura urbana. Para eso, se realizaron entrevistas semiestructuradas entre julio y diciembre de 2018, con siete agricultores urbanos orgánicos que adoptan la práctica como profesión. Los resultados fueron examinados según análisis de contenido y apuntaron carencias como la ausencia de mano de obra capacitada, falta de máquinas y equipamientos adecuados para la práctica en pequeños espacios e insuficiencia de recursos financieros, insuficiencias semejantes a la de la agricultura familiar orgánica. Por lo tanto, es fundamental la ampliación de políticas de fomento a la agricultura urbana orgánica, contemplando tales aspectos, con el fin de disminuir los obstáculos y estimular la profesión.

Consumer preferences toward organic food and the moderating role of knowledge: a case of Pakistan and Malaysia / Fatores que afetam as preferências do consumidor na intenção de compra de alimentos orgânicos e o papel moderador do conhecimento no Paquistão e na Malásia

ABSTRACT: The present study aimed to identify the elements of the Theory of Planned Behaviour along with health consciousness and determine the role of knowledge as a moderating variable in Pakistan and Malaysia. Three hundred and forty-one observations from Pakistan and 280 observations from Malaysia were acquired through questionnaire; while, confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modelling was applied for the analysis. The magnitude of the results varied across both countries; however, attitude, subjective norms and health consciousness, as well as their interaction terms, were significant predictors, whereas, perceived behavioural control and its knowledge interaction terms had insignificant impacts on the purchase intentions of consumers for both countries. This research will help to further understand about consumer perception in the purchase of organic food items, which will assist retailers, advertisers and manufacturers in developing strategies for such products.

RESUMO: O presente estudo teve como objetivo identificar os elementos da teoria do comportamento planejado juntamente com a consciência em saúde, e determinar o papel do conhecimento como uma variável moderadora no Paquistão e na Malásia. 341 observações do Paquistão e 280 observações da Malásia foram adquiridas através de questionário; enquanto que análise fatorial confirmatória e modelagem de equações estruturais foram aplicadas para a análise. A magnitude dos resultados variou entre os dois países. No entanto, atitudes, normas subjetivas e consciência da saúde, bem como seus termos de interação, foram preditores significativos, enquanto que controle comportamental percebido e seus termos de interação do conhecimento tiveram impactos insignificantes nas intenções de compra dos consumidores para os dois países. Esta pesquisa ajudará a entender melhor a percepção do consumidor na compra de alimentos orgânicos, o que ajudará varejistas, anunciantes e fabricantes no desenvolvimento de estratégias para esses produtos.

Compatibility of Heterorhabditis amazonensis MC01 (Nematoda: rhabditida) with fertilizers and soil conditioners / Compatibilidade de Heterorhabditis amazonensis MC01 (Nematoda: Rhabditida) com fertilizantes e condicionadores de solo

Entomopathogenic nematodes are natural enemies of insect pests present in the soil; however, the intensive use of agricultural inputs can affect the action of these organisms. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of exposure of the nematode Heterorhabditis amazonensis MC01 to soil fertilizers containing different active ingredient, verifying their influence in the viability, infectivity and nematode production in Tenebrio molitor L. larvae. Nine products were tested, including fertilizers and soil conditioners, using the adapted IOBC/WPRS protocol. The infective juveniles were exposed to the highest concentration recommended by the manufacturer of each product for a period of 48 h. After this period, the viability, infectivity and production were evaluated and the values of mortality, infectivity reduction, production reduction and insecticide effect were obtained in order to classify the products according to IOBC criteria. In this way, the nematode H. amazonensisMC01 was compatible with most of the products under the tested conditions, so could be present in the soil at the same time. However, the product Nutriterge® Formula 3 was considered slightly harmful and Nem out® considered harmful. However, further field tests should be performed with these products to prove the deleterious effect on the nematode tested.

Nematoides entomopatogênicos são inimigos naturais de insetos-praga presentes no solo; no entanto, o uso de insumos agrícolas pode afetar a ação desses organismos. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar os efeitos da exposição de Heterorhabditis amazonensis MC01 com fertilizantes de solo contendo diferentes ingredientes ativos, a fim de verificar a influência na viabilidade, infectividade e produção do nematoide em larvas de Tenebrio molitor L. Foram testados nove produtos, incluindo fertilizantes e condicionadores de solo, utilizando o protocolo adaptado da IOBC/WPRS. Os juvenis infectantes foram expostos à maior concentração recomendada de cada produto por período de 48 h. Após, esse período os valores de viabilidade, infectividade, redução da produção e efeito inseticida foram obtidos e os produtos foram classificados de acordo com os critérios da IOBC. Dessa forma, o nematoide H. amazonensis MC01 foi compatível com a maioria dos produtos nas condições testadas, podendo estar presente no solo ao mesmo tempo. No entanto, o produto Nutriterge® Fórmula 3 foi considerado ligeiramente prejudicial e Nem out® foi considerado prejudicial. Outros testes de campo devem ser realizados com esses produtos para comprovar o efeito deletério sobre o nematoide testado.

Condiciones de trabajo y de seguridad social en asociaciones de pequeños y medianos agricultores campesinos con prácticas de economía solidaria en tres municipios del oriente antioqueño, Colombia, 2015 / Conditions of working and social security in peasant communities with solidarity economy practices in three municipalities in eastern Antioquia, Colombia 2015 / Condições de trabalho e segurança social nas comunidades camponesas com práticas de economia solidária em três municípios do leste de Antioquia, Colômbia 2015

Resumen Introducción: En algunas asociaciones de pequeños y medianos productores agropecuarios del oriente de Antioquia se identifican prácticas de economía solidaria y de producción agrícola que se han constituido en escenarios de resistencia y alternativas de trabajo para una población económica y socialmente vulnerable. La economía campesina fundamentada en el trabajo agrícola y las incertidumbres relacionadas con las transformaciones productivas que supone la cercanía del oriente antioqueño al Área Metropolitana son aspectos relevantes que deben considerarse a la hora de propender por el fortalecimiento de las organizaciones campesinas de la economía solidaria. Objetivo: Analizar las condiciones de trabajo y de seguridad social de un grupo de pequeños y medianos agricultores del sector solidario, comprometidos con la seguridad alimentaria, en tres municipios del oriente de Antioquia. Metodología: Se hizo un estudio descriptivo transversal de 111 productores, asociados activos de diez asociaciones campesinas de economía solidaria, legalmente constituidas. Se recolectó información primaria mediante encuestas. Se analizaron variables sociodemográficas, laborales y de seguridad social. Resultados: 85,6 % de los asociados pertenecen a estratos bajos y son trabajadores independientes, con ingreso promedio de $296 000 mensual; el 72 % posee seguridad social en salud en régimen subsidiado; el 91 % presenta desprotección en riesgos laborales, y el 88,3 %, en pensiones. Conclusión: Los ingresos de estos colectivos de agricultores del sector solidario son inferiores al salario mínimo legal y al ingreso promedio de los trabajadores del campo colombiano; las desigualdades son protuberantes en relación con los ingresos del resto de trabajadores del país. La protección social supone retos para el Gobierno, en cuanto a incrementar la cobertura en pensiones y riesgos laborales.

Abstract Introduction: The agricultural-based solidarity economy practiced by rural communities in Eastern Antioqua, Colombia, has become a tool for resistance, as well as an alternative source of employment for a socially and economically vulnerable population. Economies based on agriculture and the uncertainties of the productive transformations derived from a community's proximity to Medellin metropolitan area, are important factors that should be taken into account when examining the potentials of a solidary economy. Objective: To analyze the working and social conditions of a group of small and medium-scale farmers, from 3 towns in Eastern Antioquia, who follow the solidarity economy and are committed to food security. Methodology: A descriptive, transversal study was carried out with 111 active producers belonging to 10 legally consolidated solidarity economy farmers associations. Primary data was gathered through polls and workshops. Variables in respondents sociodemographics, work and social security were analyzed based on the statistical measurements of frequency, proportion and central tendency. Results: 85.6% of respondents are independent workers and belong to a lower socioeconomical strata with a mean monthly income of COP 296.000; 72% have health insurance through the country's subsidized system; 91% work without occupational hazard insurance; 88.3% do not contribute to a pension fund. Discussion: Income of the surveyed population was found to be lower than both the legal minimum wage and average wages of workers in the same field; income inequalities are very pronounced compared to other Colombian workers; increasing pension enrollment and occupational hazard coverage are challenges the government continues to face.

Resumo Introdução: As comunidades camponesas do Leste de Antioquia praticam economia de solidariedade que foi constituída em cenários de resistência e alternativas trabalho para populacoes economica e socialmente vulneráveis. A economia baseada na agricultura e as incertezas associadas com as transformações produtivas colocadas pela sua proximidade à área metropolitana de Medellin, são fatores importantes a ter em conta para demonstrar as possibilidades que tem a economia solidária, através da abordagem com as experiências das comunidades. Objetivo: O objetivo foi analisar as condições de trabalho e segurança social de um grupo do setor de pequenos e medios agricultores, comprometidos com a segurança alimentar em três municípios do Leste de Antioquia. Metodologia: Um estudo descritivo transversal foi realizado em 111 produtores associados ativos de 10 associações camponesas de economia solidária, legalmente constituídas. As informações primárias foram coletadas por meio de pesquisas e workshops. Variáveis sociodemográficas, trabalhistas e de seguranca social foram analisadas. A análise foi feita com medidas estatísticas de frequência, proporção e tendência central. Resultados: 85,6% dos associados pertencem ao estrato baixo e são trabalhadores independentes com renda média de $ 296 mil pesos por mês; 72% têm segurança social em saúde em regime subsidiado; 91% tem falta de proteção nos riscos ocupacionais e 88,3% nas posibilidades de ter aposentadoria. Discussão: A renda é menor do que o salário mínimo legal da média dos trabalhadores no campo colombiano; as desigualdades são acentuadas em relação à renda do resto dos trabalhadores do país; na proteção social apresentam-se desafios para o governo para aumentar a cobertura em pensões e riscos ocupacionais.