Toxicity of paclobutrazol-based pesticide on Lactuca sativa L.: germination, seedling development, and DNA damage.

Paclobutrazol, a fungicide of the triazole class, is widely used as an inducer of early flowering and fruiting by inhibiting gibberellin formation. However, biological assays using model organisms to evaluate their cytogenotoxic and mutagenic potential are still scarce. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of the commercial product Cultar® 250 SC (CP) and the pure substance (PBZ) on the germination and initial seedling development of Lactuca sativa L. (lettuce), in addition to evaluating the effects of CP on the mitotic activity and DNA, as we believe that PBZ has a greater toxic potential than CP on seed germination, and that the latter has cytogenotoxic and mutagenic effects on L. sativa. Lettuce seeds treated with CP and with PBZ in the doses of 0.25, 0.50, 1, 1.5, and 2 g L-1 showed significant reductions in germination rate, as well the CP reduced the root and initial development seedling development. PBZ showed greater inhibition of germination compared to CP. In direct exposure to PBZ, there was not sufficient seedling development for analysis, while in discontinuous treatment, there was inhibition of root growth (except for doses of 0.25 and 0.50 g L-1) and in the development of the aerial part. While no mitodepressive effect was observed in meristematic cells treated with CP, increased frequencies of chromosomal alterations, including condensed nuclei and micronuclei, were evident in both meristematic cells and the F1 region. The Comet assay further demonstrated higher levels of DNA damage at higher paclobutrazol doses, supporting the findings of increased micronucleus frequencies. Consequently, it can be concluded that the CP exhibits greater toxicity towards seed germination compared to lettuce seedlings, and PBZ has a greater toxic potential than CP in relation to these parameters. However, the impact of CP on seedlings was relatively minimal, as evidenced by their limited effects on development, cell proliferation, and DNA, suggesting a slight toxicity of this agent. Therefore, we infer that Cultar® 250 SC should be used with caution. Thus, this study emphasizes the importance of employing joint analyses to better elucidate and correlate the mechanisms of action of potentially toxic substances. Furthermore, it provides a basis for discussing the application of Cultar® 250 SC and seeking more sustainable alternatives in food production.

Bioprocess of Gibberellic Acid by Fusarium fujikuroi: The Challenge of Regulation, Raw Materials, and Product Yields.

Gibberellic acid (GA3) is a tetracyclic diterpenoid carboxylic acid synthesized by the secondary metabolism of Fusarium fujikuroi. This phytohormone is widely studied due to the advantages it offers as a plant growth regulator, such as growth stimulation, senescence delay, flowering induction, increased fruit size, and defense against abiotic or biotic stress, which improve the quality and yield of crops. Therefore, GA3 has been considered as an innovative strategy to improve agricultural production. However, the yields obtained at large scale are insufficient for the current market demand. This low productivity is attributed to the lack of adequate parameters to optimize the fermentation process, as well as the complexity of its regulation. Therefore, this article describes the latest advances for potentializing the GA3 production process, including an analysis of its origins from crops, the benefits of its application, the related biosynthetic metabolism, the maximum yields achieved from production processes, and their association with genetic engineering techniques for GA3 producers. This work provides a new perspective on the critical points of the production process, in order to overcome the limits surrounding this modern line of bioengineering.

Effects of gibberellic acid concentration and fruit maturation stage on seed germination and vigor of pitahaya seedlings / Doses de ácido giberélico e estágio de maturação de frutos na germinação de sementes e vigor de plântulas de pitaya

With increased interest in cultivation, the study of white-fleshed pitahaya (Selenicereus undatus (Haw.) D.R. Hunt, Cactaceae family) seedling production is of fundamental importance in the search for novel techniques to increase cultivation and guarantee homogeneous and productive orchards. The present study investigated the influence of various gibberellic acid (GA3) concentrations and fruit maturation stages on seed germination and vigor of white-fleshed pitahaya seedlings, considering the physiological quality of seedlings produced to support genetic breeding and conservation programs of the species. White-fleshed pitahaya seeds at two maturation stages (physiologically ripe and maintained at 10 °C in Biochemical Oxygen Demand incubators for three months) were treated with varying GA3 concentrations of 0, 50, 100, and 500 mg/L. We observed the influence of fruit storage on seedling germination, emergence, and growth as a function of GA3 concentration. According to the results, seeds extracted from ripe white-fleshed pitahaya fruits grown under the conditions tested here required GA3 application to increase seedling emergence and vigor, with optimal doses in the 150-300-mg/L range. In the case of pitahaya fruits intended for storage for future seed removal and maintained under the same sowing conditions, the application of higher doses of GA3 was necessary when compared to the previous condition, with a minimum dose of 500 mg/L GA3. The present study shows that the maturation stage of white-fleshed pitahaya fruits intended for seed removal influences the quality of seedlings; therefore, the use of seeds extracted from ripe pitahaya fruits without fermentation is more appropriate for the purpose.

Com o crescente interesse no seu cultivo, estudos na produção de pitaya ((Selenicereus undatus (Haw.) D.R. Hunt, família Cactaceae) é de fundamental importância quando se busca novas técnicas para o incremento do cultivo e garantia de um pomar homogêneo e produtivo. Objetivou-se avaliar a influência do uso de diferentes concentrações de ácido giberélico e do estágio de maturação de frutos na germinação de sementes e vigor de plântulas de pitaya vermelha da polpa branca, tendo em vista a qualidade fisiológica de mudas produzidas a fim de subsidiar trabalhos de melhoramento genético e conservação da espécie. Foram utilizadas sementes de frutos de pitaya vermelha da polpa branca em dois estágios de maturação (fisiologicamente maduros e conservados à 10°C em BOD por 3 meses), tratadas com diferentes concentrações de ácido giberélico: 0, 50, 100 e 500 mg/L. Foi possível observar que houve influência do armazenamento de frutos na germinação, emergência e crescimento das plântulas em função das concentrações de ácido giberélico. Assim, verifica-se que, no caso de sementes extraídas de frutos maduros de pitaya vermelha da polpa branca, quando semeadas nas condições do presente estudo, é necessário a utilização de GA3 para incrementar a emergência e o vigor das plântulas, com doses ótimas variando entre 150 e 300 mg/L. No caso da necessidade em armazenar os frutos de pitaya para a posterior retirada de sementes, também nas mesmas condições de semeadura do presente estudo, observa-se que, em síntese, é necessária a utilização de GA3, porém em doses maiores do que o observado no primeiro, sendo de, no mínimo, 500 mg/L. O presente estudo mostra que há influência do estágio de maturação dos frutos de pitaya vermelha de polpa branca para retirada de sementes sobre a qualidade das mudas, concluindo que o uso de sementes extraídas de frutos maduros, sem fermentação, é mais adequado para esta finalidade.

Flower-inducing technology facilitates speed breeding in cassava.

Cassava is a tropical crop that provides daily carbohydrates to more than 800 million people. New cassava cultivars with improved yield, disease resistance, and food quality are critical to end hunger and reduce poverty in the tropics. However, the progress of new cultivar development has been dragged down by difficulties obtaining flowers from desired parental plants to enable designed crosses. Inducing early flowering and increasing seed production are crucial to improving the efficiency of developing farmer-preferred cultivars. In the present study, we used breeding progenitors to evaluate the effectiveness of flower-inducing technology, including photoperiod extension, pruning, and plant growth regulators. Photoperiod extension significantly reduced the time to flowering in all 150 breeding progenitors, especially late-flowering progenitors which were reduced from 6-7 months to 3-4 months. Seed production was increased by using the combination of pruning and plant growth regulators. Combining photoperiod extension with pruning and the PGR 6-benzyladenine (synthetic cytokinin) produced significantly more fruits and seeds than only photoperiod extension and pruning. Another growth regulator, silver thiosulfate, commonly used to block the action of ethylene, did not show a significant effect on fruit or seed production when combined with pruning. The present study validated a protocol for flower induction in cassava breeding programs and discussed factors to consider in implementing the technology. By inducing early flowering and increasing seed production, the protocol helped move one step further for speed breeding in cassava.

Ácido salicílico como atenuador do déficit hídrico em canola / alicylic acid as a water deficit mitigator in canola

A aplicação dereguladores de crescimento vegetal representa uma alternativa para atenuar a ocorrência de estresse nos cultivos, tais como períodos de escassez hídrica na canola (Brassica napusL.) Diante disso, objetivou-se avaliar a aplicação de ácido salicílico no desenvolvimento inicial da cultura da canola submetida a déficit hídrico. O experimento foi conduzido em casa de vegetação, no delineamento experimental de blocos casualizados em esquema fatorial 5 x 2, composto por cinco doses de ácido salicílico (0; 0,5; 1,0; 1,5 e 2,0 mM L-1) e dois regimes hídricos, com e sem déficit hídrico (25% e 80% da capacidade de vaso), com quatro repetições. As variáveis analisadas foram injúrias visuais, altura de plantas, teor de clorofila e massaseca da parte aérea. A aplicaçãode diferentes doses de ácido salicílico não apresentou diferenças significativas em relação a não aplicação. O déficit hídrico resultou em maior porcentagem de injúrias, menor altura e massa seca de plantas, indicando a ocorrência de estresse à cultura. Aaplicação de ácido salicílico não atenuou os efeitos do déficit hídrico, assim como não demonstrou efeitos benéficos no desenvolvimento das plantas de canola.(AU)

The application of plant growth regulators represents an alternative to attenuate the occurrence of stress in crops, such as periods of water scarcity in canola (Brassica napus L.). Therefore, the objective was to evaluate the application of salicylic acid in the initial development of the crop. of canola subjected to water deficit. The experiment was carried out in a greenhouse, in a randomized block design in a 5 x 2 factorial scheme, consisting of five doses of salicylic acid (0; 0.5; 1.0; 1.5 and 2.0 mM L-1) and two water regimes, with and without water deficit (25% and 80% of vessel capacity), with four replications. The variables analyzed were visual injuries, plant height, chlorophyll content and shoot dry mass. The application of different doses of salicylic acid did not present significant differences in relation to non-application. The water deficit resulted in a higher percentage of injuries, lower height and dry mass of plants, indicating the occurrence of stress to the crop. The application of salicylic acid did not attenuate the effects of water deficit, as well as it did not demonstrate beneficial effects on the development of canola plants.(AU)

Biological Activity of Insecticides Against Bradysia ocellaris Larvae (Diptera: Sciaridae): A New Pest of Strawberry Crops.

Black fungus gnat larvae are one of the primary insect pests in greenhouse and nursery crops, and Bradysia ocellaris (Comstock) (Diptera: Sciaridae) is one common pest species. This pest is difficult to control in Brazil because of the absence of registered insecticides. The aim of this work was to evaluate the effects of some insecticides on B. ocellaris larvae. We also verified that the insect growth regulator novaluron caused the deformation of B. ocellaris. Of the insecticides evaluated, malationa, and thiamethoxam showed high mortality rate (96 and 86 % respectively). Further, bioassays with acetamiprid (78 %) and novaluron (44 %) showed that the lethal concentrations (LC50) were 19.18 mg a.i.L-1 at 48h to acetamiprid and 1.24 mg a.i.L-1 at 120 h to novaluron. When larvae were fed on potato pieces treated with novaluron, independently of the dose, the mortality rate was 100 %, since no larvae could complete the development cycle. Among all evaluated insecticides, only acetamiprid and novaluron were considered effective tools for control of B. ocellaris larvae under laboratory conditions.

Sublethal exposure to pyriproxyfen does not impair the abilities of the backswimmer Buenoa amnigenus to prey upon Aedes aegypti larvae.

Pyriproxyfen is a juvenile hormone analogue that is commonly used to control the immature stages of mosquitoes in both artificial and natural water reservoirs. Recently, concerns have been raised regarding the community effectiveness of pyriproxyfen in preventing vector-transmitted diseases. Such concerns have been based on the unintended effects on non-target organisms and the selection of resistant mosquito populations. This investigation was, therefore, conducted to evaluate the toxicity of pyriproxyfen to Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) larvae and the backswimmer Buenoa amnigenus (Hemiptera: Notonectidae), a naturally occurring mosquito larvae predator. We also assessed the abilities of backswimmers exposed to sublethal levels of pyriproxyfen to prey upon mosquito larvae (L2) under three larval densities (3, 6, or 9 larvae/100 mL of water) using artificial containers. Our results revealed that pyriproxyfen killed backswimmers only at concentrations higher than 100 µg active ingredient [a.i.]/L, which is 10 times higher than that recommended for larvicidal field application (i.e, 10 µg a.i./L). The abilities of backswimmers exposed to sublethal levels of pyriproxyfen (100 µg a.i./L) to prey upon mosquito larvae were not affected. Harmful effects on the backswimmer predatory abilities were detected only at concentrations of 150 µg a.i./L and when there was a higher prey availability (i.e., 9 larvae/100 mL of water). Together, our findings indicate that the reduced community effectiveness of this insecticide derives from factors other than its detrimental effects on non-target organisms such as backswimmers.

Interaction between fructan metabolism and plant growth regulators.

MAIN CONCLUSION: The relationship of fructan to plant growth regulators is clearly more complicated than it looks and is likely related to differences between fructan molecules in size and structure as well as localization. Fructans are a complex group of carbohydrates composed mainly of fructose units linked to a sucrose molecule. Fructans are present in plants as heterogeneous mixtures with diverse molecular structures and mass, different polymerization degrees, and linkage types between fructosyl residues. Like sucrose, they are frequently stored in leaves and other organs, acting as carbohydrate reserves. Fructans are synthesized in the cell vacuole by fructosyltransferase enzymes and catabolized by fructan exohydrolase enzymes. Several publications have shown that fructan metabolism varies with the stage of plant development and in response to the environment. Recent studies have shown a correlation between plant growth regulators (PGR), fructan metabolism, and tolerance to drought and cold. PGR are compounds that profoundly influence the growth and differentiation of plant cells, tissues, and organs. They play a fundamental role in regulating plant responses to developmental and environmental signals. In this review, we summarize the most up-to-date knowledge on the metabolism of fructans and their crosstalk with PGR signaling pathways. We identify areas that require more research to complete our understanding of the role of fructans in plants.

Side effects of insecticides applied to cotton on adult Trichogramma pretiosum by three exposure routes.

BACKGROUND: Trichogramma pretiosum Riley (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae) is released in extensive areas cultivated with cotton worldwide, but the use of synthetic insecticides threatens the establishment of augmented populations. Thus, an assessment of insecticides' effects on T. pretiosum is required to establish their compatibility with mass releases of the parasitoid. We studied in the laboratory the impact of insecticides administered through different exposure routes (direct-spraying, ingestion and residue contact) on T. pretiosum. Based on their toxicity, the insecticides were rated into four categories (harmless, slightly harmful, moderately harmful and harmful) as per the International Organization for Biological Control. RESULTS: The survival, parasitism ability and emergence of the treated adults and offspring (F1 and F2 ), in addition to the persistence of the toxic effects in semi-field conditions, were assessed. Teflubenzuron did not reduce female survival and caused a lesser impact on T. pretiosum on both direct-spraying and ingestion bioassays. In the residue contact bioassay, teflubenzuron and flupyradifurone were rated as harmless and slightly harmful, respectively. The other active substances (chlorfenapyr, thiodicarb and methomyl) were harmful to the parasitoid by all exposure routes and were persistent (with toxicity duration surpassing 30 days). CONCLUSION: From these findings, teflubenzuron is the insecticide most compatible with T. pretiosum releases and should be preferred over the other active substances. Further studies with the harmful insecticides (thiodicarb, chlorfenapyr and methomyl) are required to determine their toxicity under field conditions and confirm their incompatibility with T. pretiosum releases.

Application of abscisic acid (S-ABA) at different stages of ripening on color development of 'Rubi' table grape / Aplicação do ácido abscísico (S-ABA) durante a maturação no desenvolvimento da cor da uva fina de mesa 'Rubi'

The color of the berries is an important aspect of the quality of table grapes and crucial for marketing. The 'Rubi' table grapes grown in the subtropical climate generally lack color intensity due to the inhibition of anthocyanins by high temperatures during ripening. The exogenous application of abscisic acid (S-ABA) can be used to overcome this problem as the accumulation of anthocyanins in the berry skin is regulated by this plant growth regulator. The objective of this study was to assess the effect of the exogenous application of S-ABA at different stages of ripening on color development in 'Rubi' table grapes using the soluble solids (SS) content as a marker of ripening. The study was conducted during two seasons in commercial vineyards. The first trial was conducted in Marialva, Parana, Brazil, during the 2019 summer season crop (harvest in December). S-ABA (400 mg L-1) was exogenously applied at different stages of ripening of 'Rubi' table grapes (determined by the SS content of the berries): control (without application); SS = 8-9 ºBrix; SS = 10-11 ºBrix; SS = 8-9 ºBrix (two applications; the second one applied 10 days after the first); and SS = 10-11 ºBrix (two applications; the second one applied 10 days after the first). The second trial was conducted in Cambira, Parana, Brazil, during the 2020 off-season crop (harvest in May). S-ABA (400 mg L-1) was exogenously applied at different stages of ripening of 'Rubi' grapes: control (without application); SS = 6-7 ºBrix; SS = 7-8 ºBrix; SS = 9-10 ºBrix; SS = 6-7 ºBrix (two applications; the second one applied 14 days after the first); SS = 7-8 ºBrix (two applications; the second one applied 14 days after the first); and SS = 9-10 ºBrix (two applications; the second one applied 14 days after the first).(AU)

A cor das bagas é um aspecto importante de qualidade e comercialização de uvas de mesa. A uva fina de mesa 'Rubi' produzida em clima subtropical geralmente apresenta deficiência de cor devido à inibição da formação de antocianinas pelas altas temperaturas durante a maturação. Um dos métodos utilizados para superar esse problema é a aplicação exógena de ácido abscísico (S-ABA), uma vez que o acúmulo de antocianinas na casca das bagas é controlado por esse regulador vegetal. O objetivo deste trabalho foi determinar o efeito da aplicação do S-ABA em diferentes fases de maturação no desenvolvimento da cor da uva fina de mesa 'Rubi', visando o incremento e uniformização da cor dos seus cachos, tendo como referência o teor de sólidos solúveis (SS) das bagas. O experimento foi avaliado em dois ensaios a campo, em pomares comerciais. O primeiro ensaio foi realizado em Marialva, Paraná, Brasil, durante a safra de verão (colheita em dezembro) de 2019. Os tratamentos foram constituídos da aplicação de S-ABA na concentração de 400 mg L-1, em diferentes fases de maturação da uva 'Rubi', de acordo com o teor de SS das bagas, assim descritos: controle (sem aplicação); SS = 8-9 ºBrix; SS = 10-11 ºBrix; SS = 8-9 ºBrix em duas aplicações, sendo a segunda realizada aos 10 dias após a primeira; e SS = 10-11 ºBrix, em duas aplicações, sendo a segunda realizada aos 10 dias após a primeira. O segundo ensaio foi realizado em Cambira, Paraná, Brasil, durante a safra temporona ou de outono (colheita em maio) de 2020. Os tratamentos foram constituídos da aplicação de S-ABA na concentração de 400 mg.L-1 em diferentes fases de maturação da uva 'Rubi', de acordo com o teor de SS das bagas, assim descritos: controle (sem aplicação); SS = 6-7 ºBrix; SS = 7-8 ºBrix; SS = 9-10 ºBrix; SS = 6-7 ºBrix em duas aplicações, sendo a segunda realizada aos 14 dias após a primeira; SS = 7-8 ºBrix em duas aplicações, sendo a segunda realizada aos 14 dias após a primeira; e SS = 9-10 ºBrix em duas aplicações, sendo a segunda realizada aos 14 dias após a primeira. O delineamento experimental de ambos experimentos foi em blocos casualizados com 4 repetições, sendo que cada parcela foi composta por uma videira. As variáveis analisadas foram antocianinas totais, índice de cor (CIRG), e atributos (L*, C*, h° e ΔE) das bagas.(AU)

Trinexapac-ethyl application time in the crop corn agronomic performance grown under different plant arrangements / Épocas de aplicação de Trinexapac-etil no desempenho agronômico do milho cultivado sob diferentes arranjos de plantas

Reduced row spacing promotes more uniform spatial distribution of plants in the field. However, the adoption of reduced row spacing only is possible with smaller plants, which may be obtained with the use of plant growth regulator. This study aimed to evaluate the agronomic performance of the first corn crop with Trinexapac-ethyl applied at the different plant development stages and grown under different row spacing, with the same plant population. The experiments were arranged in a split-plot randomized block design with four replications, with row spacing for the plots (0.45 and 0.90 m) and Trinexapac-ethyl (TE) application time to subplots (control without application, at the V3, V6, V9 and V12 phenological stages). The Trinexapacethyl application time interacted with row spacings changing the growth and yield performance of the corn crop. For 0.45 m spacing Trinexapac-ethyl application at V12 and for 0.90 m spacing application at V9 and V12 reduced plant height and ear height. Trinexapac-ethyl application at V9 for both row spacings changed the plant architecture without changing the ear length and grain yield.(AU)

A redução do espaçamento entre linhas promove distribuição espacial mais uniforme das plantas na lavoura. Entretanto, a adoção do espaçamento reduzido só é possível com cultivares de menor porte, o que pode ser obtido com o uso de regulador de crescimento. Objetivou-se avaliar o desempenho agronômico do milho de primeira safra, submetido à aplicação de Trinexapac-etil (TE) em diferentes estádios de desenvolvimento vegetativo e cultivado sob diferentes espaçamentos entre linhas, com mesma população de plantas. Utilizou-se o delineamento experimental de blocos casualizados com parcelas subdivididas, com quatro repetições. As parcelas receberam os dois espaçamentos entre linhas (0,45 e 0,90 m) e as subparcelas as cinco épocas de aplicação de TE (testemunha sem aplicação, V3, V6, V9 e V12). A época de aplicação de Trinexapac-etil interage com os espaçamentos entre linhas alterando o crescimento e o desempenho produtivo da cultura. Para o espaçamento 0,45 m a aplicação de Trinexapac-etil em V12 e para o 0,90 m a aplicação em V9 e V12 reduz a altura de planta e de inserção de espiga. A aplicação de Trinexapac-etil em V9 para ambos os espaçamentos modifica a arquitetura da planta sem alterar o comprimento da espiga e produtividade de grãos.(AU)

Indolebutyric acid on the rooting of Fuchsia spp. cuttings / Ácido indolbutírico no enraizamento de estacas de Fuchsia spp

The princess earring is an ornamental plant native to the southern region of Brazil, much appreciated due to the beauty of its outstanding and colorful flowers. This study evaluated the effect of different doses of synthetic auxin indolebutyric acid (IBA) on the rooting of herbaceous cuttings of Fuchsia regia (Vell.) Munz, native species, and Fuchsia hybrida Hort. Ex Siebert & Voss commercial variety 'General Monk Red Blue'. The experiment was carried out in a greenhouse following a randomized block design with a 2x5 factorial arrangement (two genotypes of Fuchsia x five IBA doses). The IBA doses consisted in the concentrations of 0, 200, 400, 600 and 800 mg.L-1. Evaluations were performed 20 days after staking. The parameters evaluated were length of the largest root, number of roots per cutting, fresh weight and dry weight of the aerial part and roots. The concentration of 800 mg.L-1 of indolebutyric acid resulted in greater rooting of the cuttings of both Fuchsia materials tested. Therefore, the use of IBA (800 mg.L-1) provided better quality rooted cuttings, with greater length and number of roots.

O brinco-de-princesa é uma planta ornamental nativa da região Sul do Brasil, muito apreciada devido a beleza de suas flores pendentes e coloridas. O presente trabalho foi realizado com o objetivo de avaliar o efeito de diferentes doses de auxina sintética ácido indolbutírico (IBA) no enraizamento de estacas herbáceas de Fuchsia regia (Vell.) Munz, espécie nativa, e Fuchsia hybrida Hort. Ex Siebert & Voss variedade comercial 'General Monk Red Blue'. O experimento foi conduzido em casa-de-vegetação e o delineamento experimental foi em blocos ao acaso com arranjo fatorial 2x5 (dois genótipos de Fuchsia x cinco tratamentos). Os tratamentos consistiram em controle, e doses de IBA (mg.L-1) (0, 200, 400, 600 e 800). As avaliações foram feitas 20 dias após o estaqueamento. Os parâmetros avaliados foram: comprimento da maior raiz, número de raízes formadas por estaca, massa fresca e massa seca da parte aérea e das raízes. A concentração de 800 mg.L-1 de ácido indolbutírico resultou em maior enraizamento das estacas de ambos os materiais de Fuchsia testados. Portanto, o uso de IBA (800 mg.L-1) proporcionou a obtenção de mudas enraizadas de melhor qualidade, maior comprimento e número de raízes.

Effect of Ethephon Application on Fruit Quality at Harvest and Post-harvest Storage of Japanese Plum (Prunus salicina) cv. Fortune

Abstract The objective of this work was to evaluate different concentrations of ethephon on Fortune plum ripening, also observing the effect of ethephon concentration on the fruit parameters of yield, soluble solids (SS), titratable acidity (TA), SS/TA ratio, firmness, wooliness, diameter, length, and average fruit mass at harvest and post-harvest. The experimental design was completely randomized with five treatments and four replications, each experimental unit consisting of four plants. The ethephon concentrations of zero, 100, 200, 300, and 400 mg∙L-1 were applied on the plums 20 days before the estimated harvest time. The results indicated that ethephon application induced a higher fruit yield in earlier harvest time, but with no effect on overall yield. Relative to the quality characteristics, the application of ethephon induced a reduction of fruit firmness, soluble solids content, and titratable acidity. Fruit length was not affected. The parameters of soluble solids, titratable acidity, and firmness presented a negative significant correlation with the ethephon dose. Relative to post-storage evaluation, the ethephon application induced a higher SS/TA ratio, and lower wooliness, titratable acidity, and soluble solids content. The parameters of soluble solids and titratable acidity presented a significant negative correlation, whereas the SS/TA ratio was positively correlated with the ethephon dose.

Growth regulation of bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon) and zoysiagrass (Zoysia japonica) with glyphosate.

Glyphosate can generate positive effects on turfgrass maintenance as a form of growth control by decreasing the expenses associated with mowing. However, there is little information about the effects of this herbicide on turfgrasses. This study aimed to evaluate the response of bermudagrass and zoysiagrass to the herbicide glyphosate as a growth regulator. Two studies were performed in a greenhouse and repeated at different times. The treatments involved application of glyphosate at 10 different rates (0, 5.625, 11.25, 22.5, 45, 90, 180, 360, 720, and 1.440 g ae ha-1) with four replicates. Evaluations of green cover by digital analysis, injury, and plant height were performed at 7, 14, 21, and 28 days after application, and shoot dry matter of clippings was determined for the last evaluation period. Bermudagrass and zoysiagrass presented variedtolerance to glyphosate toxicity. Overall, the digital analysis showed that green content was negatively influenced by the increase in visual injury caused by glyphosate application. Moreover, increasing the glyphosate rate decreased plant height and shoot dry matter in both turfgrasses. Glyphosate application rates up to 45 g ae ha-1 for bermudagrass and 90 g ae ha-1 for zoysiagrass decreased plant growth without affecting the factors analyzed in this study.

Pyriproxyfen Ingested With Attractive Toxic Sugar Baits Is Carried by the Feces and Reduces the Reproductive Potential of Adult Female Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae).

In the search for new strategies to control Aedes aegypti Linnaeus (Diptera: Culicidae), several studies have successfully related pyriproxyfen (PPF) tarsal transference to breeding sites (autodissemination), as well as the sterilization potential of females exposed to PPF. Potential PPF autodissemination by mosquito feces after the ingestion of sugar baits has also been proposed. Therefore, the present work evaluated several parameters, e.g., fecal production, residuality under dry and aqueous conditions, PPF excretion affecting emergence inhibition (EI) by fecal deposits of Ae. aegypti fed with attractive toxic sugar baits (ATSBs) containing PPF as well as their reproductive potential. Females were fed with ATSBs offered as droplets and the feces were collected using filter paper and transferred to plastic cups with L3 larvae to evaluate EI. The residual effect of feces in aqueous and dry conditions and PPF excretion on EI was obtained by keeping the feces in water or dried for different time intervals and using feces collected at 24-h intervals, respectively. Females received a bloodmeal after feeding on ATSBs, eggs and larval counting expressed the reproductive potential. The fecal mass was not affected by PPF concentration, but EI increased from 33 to 54% as the PPF concentration increased. The PPF excretion in the feces exceeded 96 h. The residual effect in the EI for feces kept in water was reduced by more than 60% after 30 d but was not affected under dry conditions. The fecundity and fertility of the females were reduced up to 51% and 97%, respectively.

Cytokinin induces the development of gabirobeira root cuttings / Citocininas induzem o desenvolvimento de estacas de raiz de gabirobeira

The gabirobeira is a species native to the Brazilian Cerrado with potential for use in cropping systems. This study evaluated the effect of the cytokinin 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP) on root cuttings of gabirobeira (Campomanesia adamantium). The plant material was obtained from gabirobeira progenies of one and two-years-old. The cuttings were segmented in 5 cm length and 1.90 to 3.22 mm diameter, immersed in the following BAP concentrations: 0.0; 1.0; 2.0 and 4.0 mg L-1 for 15 seconds and planted in trays containing the substrate Bioplant®. A complete randomized experimental design was adopted in a factorial scheme 2x4, (cuttings age x BAP concentrations) with fifteen replicates per treatment. After 140 days the number of cuttings with shoots, number of shoots, number of leaves, and diameter of the main root were evaluated. The better development of the cuttings was observed on progenies of two-years-old. The lowest cytokinin concentrations promoted the better emission and number of shoots of the progenies from both ages.(AU)

A gabirobeira é uma espécie nativa do Cerrado brasileiro com potencial para uso em sistemas de cultivo. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o efeito da 6-benzilaminopurina (BAP) em estacas radiculares de progênies de Gabirobeira (Campomanesia adamantium). As estacas radiculares foram obtidas de progênies de Gabirobeira de um e dois anos de idade. Estes foram segmentados em 5 cm de comprimento e apresentavam entre 1,90 a 3,22 mm de diâmetro, imersos nas concentrações: 0.0; 1.0; 2.0 e 4.0 mg L-1 de BAP por 15 segundos e plantados em bandejas contendo Bioplant®. O delineamento experimental foi o inteiramente casualizado, em esquema fatorial 2x4 (idades das estacas x concentrações de BAP), com quinze repetições por tratamento. Após 140 dias, foram avaliados o número de estacas com brotações, número de brotações, número de folhas e diâmetro da raiz principal. Estacas de raízes de progênies de dois anos de idade apresentaram melhor desenvolvimento. Menores concentrações de citocinina trouxeram melhores resultados de emissão e número de brotações das progênies de ambas as idades.(AU)

The Effect of Temperature and Growth Regulators on Callus Induction in Watermelon Anthers

HIGHLIGHTS Callogenesis was induced from watermelon anthers The auxin 2,4-D at 2.0 and 5.0 μM concentrations induced callus formation. Anthers' responses to the pre-treatment at 4 °C varied according to the watermelon genotype.

Abstract Callus induction is one of the pathways required for haploid plant regeneration through anther culture. Pollen viability, as well as the effect of growth regulators and cold pretreatment on anthers of two watermelon lines (Smile and Sugar Baby) to induce callus formation were herein evaluated. Pollen viability was estimated through the staining technique using 2% acetic carmine. Male flower buds were collected and disinfested to allow removal anthers. These anthers were placed on Murashige and Skoog medium, which was supplemented with 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic (2,4-D) at 0.0, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0 or 5.0 μM or with 6-benzylaminopurine at 0.0, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, or 2.0 μM, in combination with 2.0 μM of 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic. Anthers were pretreated at 4 °C, for two days and then placed in vitro. Both watermelon lines provided high pollen viability rates (from 93 to 98%). The 2.0 and 5.0 μM concentrations of 2,4-D stimulated higher friable callus formation. The optimal concentration of 2,4-D was estimated at 3.78 μM and 4.17 μM, which had callus induction rates of 64% and 52%, respectively. The combination of 2.0 μM of 2,4-D and 6-benzylaminopurine did not lead to increased anther response to callus induction. The pre-treatment applied to flower buds at 4 °C enabled callus induction and the anther response to callus induction was genotype-dependent.

Cytokinin induces the development of gabirobeira root cuttings / Citocininas induzem o desenvolvimento de estacas de raiz de gabirobeira

ABSTRACT: The gabirobeira is a species native to the Brazilian Cerrado with potential for use in cropping systems. This study evaluated the effect of the cytokinin 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP) on root cuttings of gabirobeira (Campomanesia adamantium). The plant material was obtained from gabirobeira progenies of one and two-years-old. The cuttings were segmented in 5 cm length and 1.90 to 3.22 mm diameter, immersed in the following BAP concentrations: 0.0; 1.0; 2.0 and 4.0 mg L-1 for 15 seconds and planted in trays containing the substrate Bioplant®. A complete randomized experimental design was adopted in a factorial scheme 2x4, (cuttings age x BAP concentrations) with fifteen replicates per treatment. After 140 days the number of cuttings with shoots, number of shoots, number of leaves, and diameter of the main root were evaluated. The better development of the cuttings was observed on progenies of two-years-old. The lowest cytokinin concentrations promoted the better emission and number of shoots of the progenies from both ages.

RESUMO: A gabirobeira é uma espécie nativa do Cerrado brasileiro com potencial para uso em sistemas de cultivo. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o efeito da 6-benzilaminopurina (BAP) em estacas radiculares de progênies de Gabirobeira (Campomanesia adamantium). As estacas radiculares foram obtidas de progênies de Gabirobeira de um e dois anos de idade. Estes foram segmentados em 5 cm de comprimento e apresentavam entre 1,90 a 3,22 mm de diâmetro, imersos nas concentrações: 0.0; 1.0; 2.0 e 4.0 mg L-1 de BAP por 15 segundos e plantados em bandejas contendo Bioplant®. O delineamento experimental foi o inteiramente casualizado, em esquema fatorial 2x4 (idades das estacas x concentrações de BAP), com quinze repetições por tratamento. Após 140 dias, foram avaliados o número de estacas com brotações, número de brotações, número de folhas e diâmetro da raiz principal. Estacas de raízes de progênies de dois anos de idade apresentaram melhor desenvolvimento. Menores concentrações de citocinina trouxeram melhores resultados de emissão e número de brotações das progênies de ambas as idades.

Soil presence reduces the control effectiveness of a slow-release formulation of pyriproxyfen on Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) larvae.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the influence of soil on the effectiveness of two new slow-release formulations (floating and non-floating) of pyriproxyfen coextruded with low-density polyethylene. METHODS: Two slow-release devices were developed using low-density polyethylene, pyriproxyfen as larvicide and calcium carbonate as filler. A factorial design was used to evaluate the effect of soil presence on the performance of each device. Weekly bioassays were performed. RESULTS: Soil presence affected treatment effectiveness, but this effect was associated with device type. The tablets were effective for nearly 3 months. CONCLUSION: Treatment effectiveness could be reduced because of the loss of pyriproxyfen by several physico-chemical processes such as adsorption into the soil.

OBJECTIF: Evaluer l'influence de la terre sur l'efficacité de deux nouvelles formulations à libération lente (flottante et non flottante) de pyriproxyfène coextrudé avec du polyéthylène de faible densité. MÉTHODES: Deux dispositifs à libération lente ont été développés en utilisant du polyéthylène de faible densité, du pyriproxyfène comme larvicide et du carbonate de calcium comme agent de charge. Un plan factoriel a été utilisé pour évaluer l'effet de la présence de terre sur les performances de chaque dispositif. Des essais biologiques hebdomadaires ont été effectués. RÉSULTATS: La présence de terre a affecté l'efficacité du traitement, mais cet effet était associé au type de dispositif. Les comprimés ont été efficaces pendant près de 3 mois. CONCLUSION: L'efficacité du traitement pourrait être réduite en raison de la perte du pyriproxyfène par plusieurs processus physicochimiques tels que l'adsorption sur la terre.

Costus root aqueous extract modulates rat liver toxicity, DNA damage, injury, proliferation alterations induced by plant growth regulator Ethephon

Ethephon (Ethrel®) is an ethylene-based plant growth regulator that used in agriculture and it has direct and indirect effects on human health, direct effect via its inhalation during usage in agriculture and indirect effect through the diet (Fruits and vegetables) that is sprayed with it. The current study aimed to examine the possible modifying effects of costus (Saussurea lappa) root aqueous extract against Ethephon induced liver toxicity, injury, DNA fragmentation and PCNA alterations in male rats. Fifty adult male rats were divided into 5 groups (1st, control; 2nd, Costus; 3rd, Ethephon; 4th, Post treated Ethephon with costus; 5th, self-healing Ethephon). Current results revealed that; a significant increase in aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), liver injury, DNA damage and PCNA expressions in Ethephon group when compared with control group. In contrast; a significant decrease in albumin and total proteins in Ethephon group when compared with control group. Treatment of rats with costus after Ethephon improved these alterations as compared with Ethephon self-healing. So, it could be concluded that costus root extract worth to be considered as a natural substance for ameliorating the hepatic toxicity induced by plant growth regulator Ethephon.