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Abstract Plants that produce allelopathic compounds against weeds have emerged as a potential solution for the development of ecologically correct bioherbicides. Talinum triangulare is noteworthy in this regard, as its phytochemical composition encompasses flavonoids, alkaloids and other metabolites that can be used to develop inhibitory weed growth solutions. Lactuca sativa (lettuce) has been widely applied as a bioindicator species for bioherbicides and several chemicals, animal waste, water and soil quality, and atmospheric contamination, among others. In this context, this study aimed to assess the potential allelopathic effect of aqueous T. triangulare extracts on the development of L. sativa seedlings. A completely randomized design employing a 2x4 factorial scheme (shoot and root extracts) x the concentration of each extract (0, 2.5, 5, 7.5%) was applied, comprising four replications. Lactuca sativa seeds were sown on germitest papers soaked with the extracts in a germination chamber at 20°C. Physiological seed evaluations comprising the germination test, where normal and abnormal seedlings are counted on the seventh day after sowing, first normal seedling counts on the fourth day after sowing, and seedling and root length measurements. At the end of the germination test, L. sativa seedlings were separated for morphoanatomical characterizations and chlorophyll a fluorescence analyses. The T. triangulare extracts significantly influenced L. sativa root growth, with shoot extract exposure leading to more abnormal plants and lower root lengths at increasing concentrations and compared to the root extract. Root extract exposure led to evident cellular changes and lower non-photochemical quenching and unregulated dissipation quantum yields at a 5% exposure dose compared to shoot extract exposure. These findings suggest that both aqueous T. triangulare root and shoot extracts from 5% exposure doses exhibit high potential as bioherbicides, acting directly on plant structure, anatomy, quality, size and physiology.

Abstract The Brazilian Midwest is responsible for 54.3% of the country’s soybean production. Adequate storage technologies are essential to maintain physical, physiological, and sanitary seed qualities while also minimizing deterioration processes and consequent germination and vigor declines. In this context, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the physiological potential and physical qualities of soybean seeds stored under different environmental conditions and storage bag depths. Assays were carried out in September 2021 employing Foco 74i77 RSF IPRO cultivar seeds stored from April to August 2021 under three conditions, as follows: chilled at an average temperature of ≤20 °C, at an average temperature of ≤25 °C using a with blanket, and in without blanket warehouse structure at an average temperature of ≥25 °C with no with blanket. A completely randomized 3x3 factorial experimental design was applied, comprising three storage environments and three bag positions (top, middle, and bottom), with three replication each. Physical, physiological, and biochemical tests were performed on the stored seeds. The findings indicate better seed preservation in the chilled environment or when using a with blanket, with significant differences noted for seeds stored the middle of the storage bag. Therefore, soybean seed storage in a chilled environment or using a with blanket aids in slowing down the seed deterioration processes, preserving physiological quality and vigor compared to a conventional storage environment. Additionally, the quality of soybean seeds stored under these conditions in the middle of storage bags is maintained.

The Cerrado has wide plant diversity, including orchids. These plants need symbiosis with fungi for their germination to occur in the wild. In vitro or asbiotic cultivation is an alternative for the production of seedlings of this species. This diversity of orchids makes it much appreciated as pot plants, landscaping, with high commercial value. The objective of this work was to carry out the study for the development of a protocol for the germination and in vitro development of orchids. The experiment was carried out at the LABIOTEC Biotechnology Laboratory of the Federal Institute Goiano Campus Urutaí-GO. Catasetum sp native capsules from Goiás State, containing mature seeds were collected and disinfected in 50% sodium hypochlorite solution for 30 minutes and in laminar flow were washed four times in distilled and autoclaved water. They were then seeded in vitro in 258 mL glass vials containing 30 mL of MS medium enriched with vitamins and 0.0 Tryptone; 1.0; 2.0 and 3.0 g L-1. The pH of the medium was adjusted to 5.2 ± 0.1. The average time for germination and development of the protocorms varied from 3 to 7 days after sowing for the species under study. The dosage of 2.0 g L-1 is efficient for the development and maintenance of in vitro Catasetum protocorms up to 333 days. There was no development of shoot of Catasetum seedlings in any of the evaluated treatments. It was observed that the 3.0 g L-1 Tryptone dosage presented higher rates of fungal and bacterial contamination and oxidation

The effect of water replenishment on the physiological quality and seed uniformity of Napoli and Contender bean cultivars harvested in May 2015 was studied; Contender and Japanese Yellow collected in the 2016 and 2017 harvests in the experimental area of the State University of Goiás - UEG. The experiment was installed in the Laboratory of Vegetable Production of UEG-GO. The sowing was done using four replicates of 50 seeds, distributed among three sheets of germitest paper, moistened with demineralized water. The rolls were taken to the germinator regulated at 25ºC. The experimental design was completely randomized with different cultivars, collection times and water replenishment, with 4 replicates. The germination indexes were evaluated; speed of germination; hard seeds; dormant and dead; index of seedlings with small defect; with secondary infection and intact seedlings. The physiological quality of the seeds was evaluated by means of the germination and vigor test and the results in percentage and the statistic using software R. Seeds from the different water replaces, cultivars and production times presented as promising for the cultivation in Ipameri-GO.

Monocristais de ítria (Y2O3) são importantes materiais hospedeiros para lasers. Entretanto, seu elevado ponto de fusão (2450 ºC) dificulta o processo de crescimento de monocristais. Uma alternativa para a obtenção de ítria policristalina com propriedades similares às dos monocristais é a fabricação de cerâmicas transparentes. Desta forma, este trabalho teve o propósito de desenvolver uma metodologia para fabricar cerâmicas transparentes de ítria, utilizando-se um forno de indução eletromagnética que permite o uso controlado de atmosferas inertes ou redutoras e pode atingir temperaturas próximas a 2000 ºC, com taxas de aquecimento maiores que 100 ºC/min. Os pós-precursores foram preparados por meio de reação do estado sólido usando 3% em mol de ZrO2 como aditivo. As amostras foram conformadas em discos com 12 mm de diâmetro e 1 mm de espessura sob uma pressão uniaxial de 50 MPa e isostática de 350 MPa. Em seguida, foram sinterizadas a 1800 e 1900 ºC com tempos de sinterização de 1 e 5 h. Difração de raios X e microscopia eletrônica de varredura foram usadas na caracterização estrutural e microestrutural das amostras e sua transmissividade ótica foi medida por meio de espectrofotometria. Através da sinterização em forno de indução foi possível obter cerâmicas com até 60 % de transmissão em linha na região de 800 nm em tempos de sinterização menores que os descritos na literatura.

The objective of this study is to verify the contribution of the spectral bands from the new WorldView-2 satellite for the extraction of urban targets aiming a detailed mapping from the city of São Luis, at the coastal zone of Maranhão State, Brazil. This satellite system has 3 bands in the visible portion of the spectrum and also the following 4 new bands: Coastal (400-450 nm), Yellow (585- 625 nm), Red Edge (705-745 nm), and Near Infrared 2 (860-1040 nm). As for the methodology used, initially a fusion was made among the panchromatic and the multispectral bands, combining the spectral information of the multispectral bands with the geometric information of the panchromatic band. Following the ortho-rectification of the dataset was done, using ground control points (GCPs) obtained during field survey. The classification reached high values of Kappa indices. The use of the new bands Red Edge and Near Infrared 2, allowed the improvement of discriminations at tidal flats, mangrove and other vegetation types. The Yellow band improved the discrimination of bare soils – very important information for urban planning – and ceramic roofs. The Coastal band allowed to map the tidal channels which cross the urban area of São Luis, a typical feature of this coastal area. The functionalities of software GEODMA used, allowed an efficient attribute selection which improved the land cover classification from the test sites. The new WorldView-2 bands permit the identification and extraction of the features mentioned, because these bands are positioned at important parts of the electromagnetic spectrum, such as band Red Edge, which strongly improves the discrimination of vegetation conditions. Combining both higher spatial and spectral resolutions, WorldView-2 data allows an improvement on the discrimination of physical characteristics of the targets of interest, thus permitting a higher precision of land use/land cover maps, contributing to urban planning. The test sites of this study represent the main problem areas involving the city of São Luis and the entire region of the Maranhão Island.

Taking into account the importance of mangrove environments for the biodiversity of coastal areas, the objective of this paper is to classify the different types of irregular human occupation on the areas of mangrove vegetation in São Luis, capital of Maranhão State, Brazil, considering the OBIA (Object-based Image Analysis) approach with WorldView-2 satellite data and using InterIMAGE, a free image analysis software. A methodology for the study of the area covered by mangroves at the northern portion of the city was proposed to identify the main targets of this area, such as: marsh areas (known locally as Apicum), mangrove forests, tidal channels, blockhouses (irregular constructions), embankments, paved streets and different condominiums. Initially a databank including information on the main types of occupation and environments was established for the area under study. An image fusion (multispectral bands with panchromatic band) was done, to improve the information content of WorldView-2 data. Following an ortho-rectification was made with the dataset used, in order to compare with cartographical data from the municipality, using Ground Control Points (GCPs) collected during field survey. Using the data mining software GEODMA, a series of attributes which characterize the targets of interest was established. Afterwards the classes were structured, a knowledge model was created and the classification performed. The OBIA approach eased mapping of such sensitive areas, showing the irregular occupations and embankments of mangrove forests, reducing its area and damaging the marine biodiversity.

Introduction: The dynamic changes of mineral nutrients in the leaf and branch of Zanthoxylum bungeanum 'Hanyuan' during fruit development can serve as a basis for nutrient diagnosis and scientific fertilization. Methods: The content of Nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn) in the branch and leaf were measured using current-year shoots of 10-year-old Z. bungeanum 'Hanyuan' during the fruit development period, and the corresponding nutrient content in soil of the orchard were also determined to explore the nutrient demand patterns of Z. bungeanum 'Hanyuan' trees. Results: Both branch and leaf exhibited relatively high levels of various nutrients during the early stages of fruit growth, then declined temporarily. At fruit maturity, the content of Ca and K in branches was the highest, while the content of Ca and N in leaves was the highest. At fruit maturity, the average nutrient content of N, P, K, Ca, Mg, Fe, Mn, Cu, and Zn in the branches and leaves were 17.25 g/kg, 1.99 g/kg, 18.84 g/kg, 26.14 g/kg, 3.69 g/kg, 215.61 mg/kg, 248.85 mg/kg, 13.08 mg/kg, and 53.77 mg/kg. The N, K, Ca, Fe, Cu, and Zn content in the branches and leaves significantly correlated with those nutrients content in the soil. Discussion: The appropriate period for nutrient diagnosis of Z. bungeanum is 39−86 d after flowering (AF), with the critical period for branch and leaf nutrient requirements being 1−39 d AF. This provides a basis for nutrient supplements in Z. bungeanum 'Hanyuan' orchards management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Double-pulse laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (DP-LIBS) is the most effective LIBS signal enhancement method widely used in various fields. Due to adding an extra laser pulse, DP-LIBS experiments have more possibilities for research. Since the proposal of DP-LIBS technology in 1998, researchers have devoted themselves to much research on DP-LIBS. Research on DP-LIBS has been more common and innovative in the last 5 years. This review aims to comprehensively analyze DP-LIBS's experimental research and application, focusing on the various studies conducted in this area. The latest advancements in DP-LIBS experiments are summarized, including the instruments studies (such as geometric configurations, experimental parameters, and conditions). It also discusses the mechanism of DP-LIBS and its combination with other enhancement methods and spectroscopies. Moreover, the application of DP-LIBS is categorized into five domains: geological exploration and environmental monitoring, metallurgical industry, energy industry, biological application, and other applications. The applications of DP-LIBS in various fields are further elaborated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sulfinyl group, as one of the bioisosteres of carbonyl groups, attracts considerable attention in the field of synthetic chemistry. In particular, the asymmetric construction of chiral sulfinyl compounds and their derivatives remains in the early stages of development. Sulfinyl compounds mainly include sulfoxides, sulfinate esters and sulfinamides, according to the different functional groups connected to the sulfur atom. This Review summarizes the fascinating recent progress made over the past decade on the asymmetric synthesis of enantiopure sulfinyl derivatives. 1 Introduction 2 Asymmetric Synthesis of Chiral Sulfoxides 3 Asymmetric Synthesis of Chiral Sulfinate Esters 4 Asymmetric Synthesis of Chiral Sulfinamides 5 Conclusion and Outlook [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Etnobiología is the property of Etnobiologia and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Using lightweight and inexpensive aluminum foil as a current collector in aqueous batteries is still very challenging due to its serious corrosion effects, which impede the practical applications of aqueous batteries. In this study, Pc is proposed as a corrosion inhibitor for aluminum current collectors. Interestingly, the corrosion current density (0.013 μA) in an aqueous electrolyte with the Pc additive is 23 times less than that (0.302 μA) without Pc. Furthermore, a Zn/LVPF cell was used to assess the corrosion impact on its battery performance in an aqueous electrolyte. Zn‖LVPF cells at a 0.2C rate with the Pc additive demonstrated a higher capacity retention of 75% and 50.12% after 100 and 200 cycles, respectively. The battery without Pc showed a substantially worse cycle life with only 27.57% capacity retention after 40 cycles. Furthermore, Pc prevents aluminum corrosion in an organic electrolyte-based battery. The Pc additive can protect aluminum from corrosion by a dual-secure passivation mechanism, including its physical adsorption on the Al surfaces and electrochemically formed AlPc-F passivation layer. This work opens a new avenue for developing corrosion inhibitors of aluminum not only in aqueous electrolytes but also for organic-based electrolytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, two prediction models were developed using visible/near‐infrared (Vis/NIR) spectroscopy combined with partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS‐DA) and least squares support vector machine (LS‐SVM) for the detection of pesticide residues of avermectin, dichlorvos, and chlorothalonil at different concentration levels on the surface of cauliflowers. Five samples of each of the three different types of pesticide were prepared at different concentrations and sprayed in groups on the surface of the corresponding cauliflower samples. Utilizing the spectral data collected in the Vis/NIR as input values, comparison and analysis of preprocessed spectral data, and regression coefficient (RC), successive projections algorithm (SPA), and competitive adaptive reweighted sampling (CARS) were used in turn to downscale the data to select the main feature wavelengths, and PLS‐DA and LS‐SVM models were built for comparison. The results showed that the RC‐LS‐SVM was the best discriminant model for detecting avermectin residues concentration on the surface of cauliflowers, with a prediction set discriminant accuracy of 98.33%. For detecting different concentrations of dichlorvos, the SPA‐LS‐SVM had the best predictive accuracy of 95%. The accuracy of the model based on CARS‐PLS‐DA to identify chlorothalonil at different concentration levels on cauliflower surfaces reached 93.33%. The results demonstrated that the Vis/NIR spectroscopy combined with chemometrics could quickly and effectively identify pesticide residues on cauliflower surfaces, affording a certain reference for the rapid recognition of different pesticide residue concentrations on cauliflower surfaces. Practical Application: Vis/NIR spectroscopy can detect the concentration levels of pesticide residues on the surface of cauliflowers and help food regulators quickly and non‐destructively detect traces of pesticides in food, providing a guarantee for food safety. The technique also provides a basis for determining pesticide residue concentrations on the surface of other vegetables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil contamination by pesticides is one of the world's most pressing environmental issues. The widespread use of Organophosphate pesticides (OPPs) in agriculture has led to biological diversity changes. The indigenous bacterial community played significant roles in the remediation of soil contaminated with OPPs. This study examines the overall bacterial community composition of three agricultural fields in Yogyakarta, Java, Indonesia, that were exposed to OPPs. The agricultural field was divided into zones near the beach, residential, and mountainous. Sequencing 16S rRNA amplicon fragments used to analyze the soil bacterial community. It was discovered that Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, and Firmicutes comprised the majority of the bacterial community. In addition, the samples contain a high relative abundance of Bacillus, Bradyrhizobium, Chryseobacterium, Cystobacter, Microvirga, and Burkholderia. The high alpha diversity indexes suggest that the agricultural soil microbiome provides important ecological services and may harbor a wide variety of bacteria and genes with biotechnological applications. The physicochemical soil characteristics are also correlated with the bacterial community structure. The findings can be used to develop bioremediation strategies that employ native microbes to clean and restore agricultural soil contaminated with OPPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dietary antioxidant capacity (dTAC) and dietary inflammatory index (DII) are commonly used to assess nutrition. This prospective study examined dTAC, DII, and serum biomarkers in women with breast cancer (BC). Patients were followed-up before surgery (T1), before chemotherapy (T2), at 6th (T3) and 12th months of chemotherapy (T4). Serum tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin 1β, interleukin 6, protein carbonyl, malondialdehyde, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and total oxidant status levels were analyzed. Dietary antioxidant intake, dTAC, and DII were determined using a three-day dietary record. dTAC was calculated using vitamin C equivalent (VCE), oxygen radical absorption capacity (ORAC), trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC), total radical-trapping antioxidant parameter (TRAP), and ferrous ion reducing antioxidant potential (FRAP). This study included 32 women with BC and 32 controls (CG). ORAC, TEAC, TRAP, and FRAP were significantly lower in BC than in CG. During follow-up, only ORAC increased significantly at T2 compared to T1. A weak positive correlation was found between dTAC (VCE) and serum TAC levels at T2 (rho = 0.371, p = 0.036). The relationship between diet and serum biomarkers was not significant. Multicenter prospective studies on different age groups are needed to understand the association between diet and serum biomarkers levels in patients with BC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Logging is an economically important activity in the Amazon; however, there are doubts regarding its sustainability, even under planned systems. This study sought to evaluate the dynamics of the structure and composition of a forest undergoing logging operations in a Sustainable Management Unit (SMU) located in the Mamuru–Arapiuns lots of the cities of Juruti and Santarém, in the state of Pará, Brazil. The studied areas are under public concession and are closely monitored by Brazilian environmental agencies. Data were collected from permanent plots before and after logging (years 2012 to 2015). Our findings raise concerns regarding the prospects of sustainable logging because mortality rates exceeded recruitment rates, causing significant decreases in tree density per hectare and basal forest area. The diameter increment rate in the forest community was 0.82 cm year−1; crown shape and lighting significantly influenced tree diameter growth. There was initially a decrease in tree diversity followed by an increase, resulting in higher diversity levels than those observed prior to logging. There were minor changes in the composition of the forest community, with a particular shift toward pioneer species. We concluded that logging affected forest dynamics at a level that calls its prospects for sustainability into question. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Commelinaceae is an important component of the Atlantic Forest and its analysis can provide information on the conservation of that species. This study had the objective of analyzing the phenology and floral and reproductive biology of Dichorisandra rhizantha, growing in an Atlantic Forest fragment, to obtain data related to the form of reproduction and pollination mechanism of this species. We monitored the phenophases and reproductive biology of the D. rhizantha in the area studied using different methodologies and microscopy techniques (LM, SEM and FM). The flowering period occurs during the dry season. The species is andromonoecious and has daytime anthesis (4:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.). It has purple zygomorphic flowers and rimose but functionally poricidal anthers. The pollen viability was 97.6% and the two floral morphs investigated contained a large quantity of pollen grains. The time of greatest stigma receptivity (anthesis) coincided with the pollen viability. Cross‐pollination was the only efficient reproductive system of the species, with observation of gametophytic self‐incompatibility and pollen tubes growth only as far as the middle or lower third of the pistil. We observed bee species of the genera Xylocopa and Euglossa visiting the flowers and acting as effective pollinators. The immature fruits were formed after about 3.25 ± 1 days, and the presence was noted of ants of the genus Cephalotes acting as dispersers of the seeds, with aril serving as the reward. Although the natural reproductive system is efficient, D. rhizantha is endangered, mainly due to fragmentation of habitat caused by deforestation and urban encroachment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Corrosion in steel leads to the deterioration of reinforced concrete structures due to chemical reactions between steel and its surrounding atmosphere. In this paper, a novel anticorrosive powder was derived from the waste Printed Circuit Board (PCB) and manually coated on the steel rebar of the reinforced concrete specimen. The corrosion-resistant efficiency of the developed nano PCB-coating on the steel bars was studied by polarization, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and accelerated corrosion technique. Also, the applicability of the nano PCB-coated rebar as reinforcement in the concrete environment was investigated. From the results, it was observed that the nano PCB-coated specimens exhibited 3.5 times reduced rate of corrosion and lost only 46.15% strength and 52.5% diameter under the accelerated rate of 6 V after 48 hours. The presence of nano PCB powder improved the corrosion-resistant behaviour of the steel rebar by 1.65 times of the noncoated specimen. Also, the nano PCB-coating reduced the loss in residual yield strength of the corroded steel rebar by 32% lesser than the noncoated specimens and exhibited similar corrosion-resistant properties as that of the existing zinc coating. In addition to the corrosion resistance, the nano PCB-coated steel rebar exhibited almost similar adhesion with concrete as that of the commercial zinc coating which is 7% lower than uncoated steel rebars. It was inferred from this research work that the proposed anticorrosive coating prepared from the waste nano PCB powder showed better corrosion-resistant behaviour and reduced the overall cost of coating by 42%, which ensures economy and serviceability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Different amounts of AlON have been introduced in calcium hexaaluminate (CA6) using two approaches, that is, one-step and two-step methods, to improve the slag resistance of CA6. A one-step method can directly sinter the mixtures combining Al2O3, CaCO3, and Al in flowing nitrogen, in which AlON clusters are always formed because of the poor wettability of Al by Al2O3, leading to the high porosity of CA6/AlON composite. In a two-step method, CA6 and AlON are prepared separately and then mixed and sintered in flowing nitrogen. Compared with the sample prepared by the one-step method, CA6 and AlON in composite by the two-step method are more uniformly distributed, and the optimized amount of AlON added is 10wt%. The slag corrosion and penetration test shows that the CA6/AlON composite using the two-step method exhibits superior slag corrosion protection. The promoted effect of AlON on slag penetration and corrosion resistance is also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the potential of photodynamic therapy (PDT) with blue light‐emitting diode (LED) 460 nm at 25, 50 and 100 J/cm2 using three concentrations of acai extracts (100, 40, and 10 mg/ml), in the proliferation and viability of head and neck tumor lines (SCC9). Methods: Three groups of cells were analyzed for 3 days in an in vitro assay with MTT (3‐ (4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl) ‐2,5, ‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide) and crystal violet: cells in the absence of acai extract and PDT (control group); cells in the presence of acai extract and no light; and cells in the presence of acai extract and LED blue light (PDT groups). Results: When using acai as a PS combined with blue LED (460 nm, 0.7466 cm2, 1000 mW/cm2) and irradiation at 25, 50, and 100 J/cm2, after 72 h, cell viability (p < 0.0001 vs. control, p = 0.0027 vs. 100 mg/ml açai group, p = 0.0039 vs. 40 mg/ml açai group, p = 0.0135 vs. 10 mg/ml açai group; One‐Way ANOVA/Tukey) and proliferation (p < 0.05, One‐Way ANOVA/Tukey) decreased. Conclusion: The acai in question is a potential photosensitizer (PS), with blue light absorbance and efficacy against head and neck tumor lines (SCC9). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The competitive neighbourhood surrounding an individual tree can have a significant influence on its diameter at breast height (DBH) and individual tree stem volume (SV). Distance dependent competition index metrics are rarely recorded in traditional field campaigns because they are laborious to collect and are spatially limited. Remote sensing data could overcome these limitations while providing estimation of forest attributes over a large area. We used unoccupied aerial vehicle laser scanning data to delineate individual tree crowns (ITCs) and calculated crown size and distance-dependent competition indices to estimate DBH and SV. We contrasted two methods: (i) Random Forest (RF) and (ii) backwards-stepwise, linear multiple regression (LMR). We utilized an existing experiment in Pinus taeda L. plantations including multiple planting densities, genotypes and silvicultural levels. While the tree planting density did affect the correct delineation of ITCs, between 61% and 99% (mean 86%) were correctly linked to the planting location. The most accurate RF and LMR models all included metrics related to ITC size and competitive neighbourhood. The DBH estimates from RF and LMR were similar: RMSE 3.05 and 3.13 cm (R2 0.64 and 0.62), respectively. Estimates of SV from RF were slightly better than for LMR: RMSE 0.06 and 0.07 m3 (R2 0.77 and 0.70), respectively. Our results provide evidence that ITC size and competition index metrics may improve DBH and SV estimation accuracy when analysing laser-scanning data. The ability to provide accurate, and near-complete, forest inventories holds a great deal of potential for forest management planning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is currently a lack of information in the literature on the integrated production of macauba (Acrocomia aculeata) and soybean (Glycine max) crops, and the importance of expanding integrated production systems; therefore, the objective of this work was to identify the effects of macauba shading on growth, development, and productivity of different soybean cultivars. The experiment was carried out in a randomized block design in a factorial scheme (4 × 2), with four cultivars and two production systems (monoculture and crop-forest integration), and four replicates per treatment. All soybean cultivars in the crop-forest integration system showed plant stagnation due to the shade level of the palm trees, as well as a reduction in the leaf area index and chlorophyll content in the leaves. Regarding reproductive parameters, grain, and oil yield, the cultivars responded differently between the production systems, revealing an interaction between the genotype and the environment. Our methodology was not favorable to soybean production; therefore, the management of spacing between palm trees and the selection of soybean genotypes that are more adapted to shaded environments are strategies that can allow for the integrated production of these species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Data on weakly developed permafrost-affected soils (Cryosols) in the eastern part of Broknes Peninsula, the Larsemann Hills, East Antarctica are presented. Four key plots characterizing wet and dry habitats within two valleys, an elevated dry area with visual signs of salinization, and an area with a moss ecosystem were studied within the framework of the 12th Belarusian Antarctic Expedition in January–February 2020. Data on the soil particle-size distribution, bulk elemental composition, acidity, and the contents of organic carbon, total nitrogen, available nutrients, exchangeable bases, and water-soluble compounds are discussed. The variability of the main indicators of studied soils is shown. The Si2O3/R2O3 ratio varies from 2.9 (for the slopes of the valleys) to 5.2 (for the saline area). The highest contents of Corg (2.62%), Ntot (0.42%), and P2O5 (117.8 mg/kg) are characteristic of the soils of the moss ecosystem, as well as waterlogged habitats of wet valleys (1.84%, 0.20% and 108.2 mg/kg, respectively). The soils of saline area are characterized by an increased content of K2O (217.3 mg/kg) and a high percent of exchangeable sodium (up to 37–44%). The studied soils develop under different contributions of soil-forming factors with a dominance of lithogenic (site I), biogenic (site II), geomorphic (valley slopes at site III), and hydrological and biogenic (valley bottoms at sites III and IV) factors. Data on soil properties obtained in this study supplement the database on Antarctic soils and can be used as the basis for subsequent assessment of their functioning depending on climate change and anthropogenic loads. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A suitable statistical model for the analysis of repeated measures is a prerequisite for an accurate genetic selection of cacao (Theobroma cacao L.) genotypes. Thus, the objectives of this study were to (a) evaluate homoscedastic and heteroscedastic repeatability models, (b) estimate the optimal number of harvest years for genetic selection, and (c) identify and select biparental crosses with high productivity, witches' broom (Moniliophthora perniciosa Stahel & Philips‐Mora) resistance, stability, and adaptability. Twenty biparental crosses were evaluated in a complete randomized blocks design, with seven replications and 12 trees per plot for 10 harvest years. Evaluated traits were number of healthy fruits (NHF), number of symptomatic fruits for witches' broom (NWBF), dry bean weight (DBW), and fruit index (FI). Variance components were estimated by restricted maximum likelihood, and genotypic values were predicted by best linear unbiased prediction. The best‐fitted repeatability model for each trait was indicated by Akaike's information criterion. The additive index was used for simultaneous selection for productivity, witches' broom resistance, stability, and adaptability. The heteroscedastic repeatability model showed the best fit for all traits. For HF, WBF, and FI, two and seven harvest years were sufficient for selection aiming at recombination and recommendation, respectively. For NWBF, evaluated only from the seventh year onwards, one harvest year was enough for recombination and three for recommendation. Five biparental crosses with high productivity, witches' broom resistance, stability, and adaptability were selected for recombination and/or for competition trials for recommendation. Such results can help define efficient strategies and optimize cacao breeding programs. Core Ideas: Heteroscedastic repeatability model was more suitable than homoscedastic repeatability model.Two and seven harvest years were necessary for selection for recombination and recommendation, respectively.Additive index allowed genetic gains for productivity and disease resistance traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to describe anatomical characteristics of wood known as 'louros' from the Brazilian Amazon. The species is also known in Portuguese as preciosa, louro preto, louro pimenta, louro rosa, itauba, itauba amarela, louro branco and louro vermelho. Wood samples were collected in the extractivist communities of Paraíso and Arimum, located in the Verde Para Sempre Extractivist Reserve in Pará State, Brazil. All evaluated wood had diffuse porosity, simple perforate plate, alternate intervessel pits and non-storied rays. The anatomical characteristics indicated that louro branco had lower average ray frequency values (1.23), while preciosa, itauba and itauba amarela had higher mean ray frequency (6.70, 6.43 and 6.60), respectively. Samples of louro vermelho and louro branco had higher values for ray height (1994.36 and 5579.81) and width (511.21 and 506.40). Regarding vessel dimensions and frequency, itauba and itauba amarela had higher vessel frequency (11.43 and 11.83). Overall, strong uniformity of wood structure was observed at macroscopic and microscopic levels in the evaluated species. However, there were some slight differences. The anatomical characteristics, effective for discrimination, were axial parenchyma type, presence of septate fibres, type and grouping of vessels, presence of oil cells and starch. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We employed density functional B3LYP to inspect the impact of Pd-decoration on an AlP quantum dot (AlPQ) sensing performance in detection of mesalamine (MA) drug. The interaction of the pristine AlPQ with the MA was found to be weak, and the sensing response is about 2.5. Decorating a Pd atom into the AlPQ surface increases the adsorption energy (Ead) of MA from −6.1 to −23.5 kcal/mol. The sensing response significantly rises to 82.7 by Pd-decoration. A short recovery time of 13.3 s is found for the MA desorption from the Pd-decorated AlPQ surface at 298 K. The water solvent reduces Ead of MA to −19.4 kcal/mol. Thus, it suggests that Pd-decorated AlPQ may be highly sensitive MA sensor with a short recovery time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Ceramica is the property of Associacao Brasileira de Ceramica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Herbicides play an important role in controlling weeds in agricultural crop areas. However, the lack of knowledge of their mobility in the soil may cause environmental damage, such as the contamination of soil and water bodies. Thus, this study was conducted to identify the effect of different rainfall intensities on the leaching potential of the herbicides diuron, hexazinone, and sulfometuron-methyl in red latosol. The trials were conducted in polyvinyl chloride columns. Rainfall simulations were performed for the following intensities: 10 mm h−1, 15 mm h−1, 20 mm h−1, and 25 mm h−1 of rainfall during 4 h. The columns were sectioned into seven layers (0–0.05; 0.05–0.10; 0.10–0.15; 0.15–0.20; 0.20–0.25; 0.25–0.30; 0.30–0.35 m), and the quantification of the herbicides in the layers was performed by Ultra-High Performance Liquid Chromatography coupled to the Mass Spectrometer. The diuron showed lower leaching potential in the soil, detected almost entirely in the upper layer of the column (0.0–0.05 m) for all precipitation applied. Hexazinone showed high leaching, being detected until the last layer of the soil (0.30–0.35 m) and in the water leached in the column when applied 20 and 25 mm h−1 of rainfall. Sulfometuron-methyl reached the last layer (0.30–0.35 m) when applied at an intensity of 25 mm h−1. Hexazinone showed higher leaching potential and consequent environmental risk. Diuron and sulfometuron-methyl were fewer mobiles in the soil profile; however, the environmental risk should be considered because higher rainfall intensities may alter their behavior in the soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel "MnOx/Pt/MWCNT-GC" nanocatalyst is recommended for the electrooxidation of formic acid (EOFA), the principal anodic reaction in the direct formic acid fuel cells (DFAFCs). The sequential (layer-by-layer) protocol was employed to prepare the catalyst through the electrodeposition of Pt (nano-Pt) and manganese oxide (nano-MnOx) nanoparticles onto the surface of a glassy carbon (GC) electrode supported with multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). The nano-MnOx could successfully mediate the mechanism of EOFA by accelerating the charge transfer, "electronic effect". On the other hand, MWCNTs could enhance the catalytic performance by changing the surface geometry that inhibited the adsorption of poisoning CO, which is a typical intermediate in the reaction mechanism of EOFA that is responsible for the potential deterioration of the catalytic performance of DFAFCs. Interestingly with this modification, a significant enhancement in the catalytic activity and stability toward EOFA was achieved. Several techniques will be employed to evaluate the catalyst's morphology, composition, crystal structure, and activity and further to understand the role of each of the nano-MnOx and MWCNTs in the catalytic enhancement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowledge about the behavior of seeds is important to support studies to minimize the effects of predatory extractivism on ornamental bromeliads. The aim of this study was to evaluate the germination, seed morphology and post-seminal development of Hohenbergia belemii and Neoregelia compacta (Bromeliaceae) in different substrates. Seeds were disinfested with a sodium hypochlorite solution and germinated in four substrates: germitest paper; washed sand; vermiculite; and the commercial substrate Plantmax®. The experimental design was completely randomized in a 2 x 4 factorial scheme, with four repetitions and 50 seeds per repetition. The seeds were sown on the substrates and stored in plastic Gerbox® boxes, which were kept in BOD chambers with 12 hours photoperiod at constant temperature of 30°C. Data were collected daily to calculate germination percentage and growth performance. The germination started on the 4th day after sowing (DAS) for H. belemii, with stabilization on the 11th DAS, while this occurred from the 5th DAS for N. compacta with stabilization on the 21st DAS. Germination was classified as development of epigeal and cryptocotylar seedlings for both species. The vermiculite substrate had a significant effect on seed germination, GSI (germination speed index) and growth of seedlings of both species. Our findings can support future research on seed technology and also contribute to better knowledge of the evolution of morphological characters of these bromeliad species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mullite, an intermediate phase of the binary alumina-silica system, is one of the most important phases of ceramic products containing alumina and silica in the initial composition. Its stoichiometry ranges from 3Al2O3.2SiO2 (3:2) to 2Al2O3.SiO2 (2:1) and its crystalline structure is orthorhombic, characterized by the presence of octahedral chains of AlO6 interconnected by tetrahedral chains of aluminum-oxygen and/or silicon-oxygen (AlO4/SiO4). Properties such as high chemical and thermal stability, low thermal expansion and conductivity, and good mechanical strength enable a wide range of applications. Due to the relevance of this material, it is important for the scientific community to understand its microstructural characteristics, properties, methods of synthesis, and various applications. Therefore, this article aimed to make a comprehensive review on the mullite to gather and present to the reader a series of relevant information that makes it possible to deepen the knowledge about mullite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Semiconductor and display production equipment requires highly plasma-resistant components, where α-Al2O3 plays a vital role in shielding and insulating. In the present study, the physicochemical properties of a new domestic α-Al2O3 powder were compared with those of imported ones currently used in the Korean industry. The particle size distribution revealed finer particles in the domestic powder that were generated during dry milling than the imported powder resulting in a broad size distribution and high surface area. An effort was made to eliminate the fine particles by heat treatment because they increase the viscosity of a slurry for wet processing and induce a low green and sintered density of the final products. In addition to the effects of heat treatment on the powder characteristics, the dispersion behavior of an aqueous Al2O3 slip was examined systematically upon the addition of each polymeric processing additive for filter pressing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The combination of machine learning and products obtained by Remote Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) has stood out in the forest sector in the last decade due to the wide range of applications and contributions to the classification and modelling of spatial attributes. The literature presents an overview of these applications, their limitations, and the perspectives related to the theme. Many applications are promising and have different approaches in practices such as identifying rare or invasive trees species, quantifying biomass, early detection of diseases, monitoring deforestation and forest fires, among others. In this context of large data sets generated by RPAS surveys, observed significant influence of deep learning methods, mainly due to their ability to automatically extract spatial characteristics and design flexibility, as in the case of different Neural Networks (NN) architectures. Other algorithms such as Random Forest (RF) and Support Vector Machine (SVM) also occupy a prominent position in this context, having a proven ability to deal with complex problems. However, reduction of computational load, consolidation of analysis protocols, automated selection of predictors, use of proprietary software, and expansion of the research scope are some of the challenges that still need to be overcome to disseminate and improve the use of RPA data sets. Thus, computer vision through deep learning networks emerges as a promising approach in object-based image analysis, considering its ability to recover patterns, even when operating in less complex databases, such as RGB compositions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To assess association between congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection and brain injury in neonates. Methods. The literatures from inception to November 4, 2020, were searched through PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science. Heterogeneity test was conducted for each indicator and measured by I 2 statistics. If I 2 ≥ 50 % , the random effects model was applied; otherwise, the fixed effects model was used. Sensitivity analysis was performed for all models. Weighed mean difference (WMD) was used as the effect size for measurement data, and risk ratio (RR) was as the effect indicator. Results. A total of 13 studies, including 4,262 congenital CMV infection neonates, were enrolled in this study. Our results showed that the rate of hearing impairment (RR: 2.105, 95% CI: (1.115, 3.971), P = 0.002), sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) (RR: 17.051, 95% CI: (6.201, 46.886), P < 0.001), and microcephaly (RR: 2.283, 95% CI: (1.325, 3.935), P =0.003) in neonates infected congenital CMV was higher than that in control group. Conclusion. The risks of hearing impairment, SNHL, and microcephaly in neonates during childhood may be associated with congenital CMV infection. It is necessary to establish neonatal screening programs and comprehensive diagnostic tests for patients to reduce the risk of adverse brain damage to the congenital CMV infection as early as possible and to improve the prognosis of the newborn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sex differences in behaviors relevant to nicotine addiction have been observed in rodent models and human subjects. Behavioral, imaging, and epidemiological studies also suggest underlying sex differences in mesolimbic dopamine signaling pathways. In this study we evaluated the proteome in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and nucleus accumbens (NAc) shell in male and female mice. Experimental groups included two mouse strains (C3H/HeJ and C57BL/6J) at baseline, a sub-chronic, rewarding regimen of nicotine in C3H/HeJ mice, and chronic nicotine administration and withdrawal in C57BL/6J mice. Isobaric labeling with a TMT 10-plex system, sample fractionation, and tandem mass spectrometry were used to quantify changes in protein abundance. In C3H/HeJ mice, similar numbers of proteins were differentially regulated between sexes at baseline compared with within each sex after sub-chronic nicotine administration. In C57BL/6J mice, there were significantly greater numbers of proteins differentially regulated between sexes at baseline compared with within each sex after chronic nicotine administration and withdrawal. Despite differences by sex, strain, and nicotine exposure parameters, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and dopamine and cAMP-regulated phosphoprotein of 32 kDa (DARPP-32, Ppp1r1b) were repeatedly identified as significantly altered proteins, especially in the VTA. Further, network analyses showed sex- and nicotine-dependent regulation of a number of signaling pathways, including dopaminergic signaling. Sub-chronic nicotine exposure in female mice increased proteins related to dopaminergic signaling in the NAc shell but decreased them in the VTA, whereas the opposite pattern was observed in male mice. In contrast, dopaminergic signaling pathways were similarly upregulated in both male and female VTA after chronic nicotine and withdrawal. Overall, this study identifies significant sex differences in the proteome of the mesolimbic system, at baseline and after nicotine reward or withdrawal, which may help explain differential trajectories and susceptibility to nicotine addiction in males and females. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Saflufenacil is an herbicide that is leachable in soil and has the potential to contaminate groundwater, besides having moderate toxicity to aquatic organisms. Some macrophyte species may interfere with the availability of herbicides in water, increasing dissipation in this environment. Thus, the objective of this work was to evaluate the absorption and dissipation of 14C-saflufenacil in water by Egeria densa and Pistia stratiotes. Dissipation was performed with 14C-saflufenacil applied directly in water and quantified by liquid scintillation spectrometry (LSS). The evaluation times were 0, 3, 6, 24, 48, 72 and 96 h after application (HAA) for E. densa and 0, 12, 24, 36, 48, 60, 84 and 108 HAA for P. stratiotes. Absorption was analyzed through plant combustion in a biological oxidizer. The presence of the macrophytes increased the dissipation of 14C-saflufenacil in water. The half-life time (DT50) of the herbicide decreased by 82.6% in the presence of E. densa at 96 HAA. For P. stratiotes, the reduction in DT50 was 94.8% at 108 HAA. The absorption of 14C-saflufenacil was low for both macrophytes during the evaluated time. However, the macrophytes E. densa and P. stratiotes showed potential for the phytoremediation of water contaminated with saflufenacil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista em Agronegócio e Meio Ambiente is the property of Revista em Agronegocio e Meio Ambiente and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Journal of Advanced Nursing (John Wiley & Sons, Inc.) is the property of John Wiley & Sons, Inc. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)