ABSTRACT Perhaps one of the most important goals of sustainable development for developing countries is to enhance the utilization of renewable energy sources in all sectors in general and the agricultural sector in particular. The pre-cooling process helps to maintain quality and extend the shelf life of the fruits and vegetables. The aim of this study was to fabricate an indirect evaporative solar precooler (IESP) to reduce post-harvest loss for agricultural products. Tomato crop was chosen to be pre-cooled as an example of agricultural value chains. Experimental variables included three temperatures of cooling water (15, 10 and 5 °C) and two air velocities that passed through the cooling cabinet (1.5 and 2.5 m s-1). The results showed that at 1.5 m s-1 air velocity, the actual coefficient of performance was 19.4, 25.5 and 34.7% at cooling water temperatures 15, 10 and 5 °C, respectively. At 2.5 m s-1 air velocity, the actual coefficient of performance was 23.1, 28.8 and 37.2% at cooling water temperatures 15, 10 and 5 oC, respectively. The performance of the IESP under these conditions was 15.4 oC, 91.5% RH, 0.338 TR refrigeration load and 37.2% COPcyc. Total energy consumption was 6.4 kWh day-1. The solar pre-cooler performance proved a very feasible solution to the demands of small and medium horticultural holdings, especially in cities with a very hot climate to keep vegetables and fruits from deteriorating after harvest.

RESUMEN Quizás uno de los objetivos más importantes del desarrollo sostenible para los países en desarrollo es mejorar la utilización de fuentes de energía renovables en todos los sectores en general y en el sector agrícola en particular. El proceso de pre-enfriamiento ayuda a mantener la calidad y prolongar la vida útil de las frutas y verduras. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo fabricar un preenfriador solar evaporativo indirecto (IESP) para reducir las pérdidas posteriores a la cosecha de productos agrícolas. El cultivo de tomate fue elegido para ser preenfriado como ejemplo de cadenas de valor agrícolas. Las variables experimentales incluyeron tres temperaturas del agua de enfriamiento (15, 10 y 5 °C) y dos velocidades del aire que pasó por el gabinete de enfriamiento (1,5 y 2,5 m s-1). Los resultados mostraron que a una velocidad del aire de 1,5 m s-1, el coeficiente de rendimiento real fue de 19,4, 25,5 y 34,7% a temperaturas del agua de refrigeración de 15, 10 y 5 oC, respectivamente. A una velocidad del aire de 2,5 m s-1, el coeficiente de rendimiento real fue de 23,1, 28,8 y 37,2% a temperaturas del agua de refrigeración de 15, 10 y 5 oC, respectivamente. El desempeño del IESP bajo estas condiciones fue de 15,4 oC, 91,5% HR, 0,338 TR carga frigorífica y 37,2% COPcyc. El consumo total de energía fue de 6,4 kWh día-1. El rendimiento del preenfriador solar resultó ser una solución muy viable para las demandas de las pequeñas y medianas explotaciones hortícolas, especialmente en ciudades con un clima muy cálido, para evitar que las verduras y frutas se deterioren después de la cosecha.

ABSTRACT Postharvest conservation of fresh fruits and vegetables is a constant challenge in the food industry. Biodegradable coatings represent an innovative and sustainable solution to extend their shelf life. In this context, this research evaluated the influence of a coating based on oxidized banana starch (Musa paradisiaca L. group AAA, cv. Cavendish) and olive oil on the conservation of cherry tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum cv. Cerasiforme) during their storage at ambient conditions. Coating-forming emulsions were prepared using starch (4% m v-1) with a high degree of oxidation, glycerol, Tween 80, and olive oil. The products were dip coated. The starch extraction yield was 27.26% by the wet milling method. The contents of lipids, crude fiber, proteins, carbohydrates, and ashes tended to decrease in oxidized starches with increasing reaction time, the opposite behavior for humidity (P≤0.05). Solubility and oil absorption capacity increased in oxidized starches, while water absorption and swelling power decreased (P≤0.05). The best combination for the formulation of oxidized starch coatings was 3% (m v-1) of glycerol and 0.3% (m v-1) of oil. This coating reduced weight losses and delayed the ripening process. The results suggested that the use of coatings based on oxidized banana starch and olive oil is an effective strategy for maintaining the quality and freshness of the fruits during a longer storage period.

RESUMEN La conservación poscosecha de frutas y hortalizas frescas es un desafío constante en la industria alimentaria. Los recubrimientos biodegradables representan una solución innovadora y sostenible para prolongar su vida útil. En este contexto, esta investigación evaluó la influencia de un recubrimiento a base de almidón oxidado de plátano (Musa paradisiaca L. grupo AAA, cv. Cavendish) y aceite de oliva en la conservación de tomates cherry (Solanum lycopersicum cv. Cerasiforme) durante su almacenamiento en condiciones ambientales. Se prepararon emulsiones formadoras de recubrimiento usando almidón (4% m v-1) con alto grado de oxidación, glicerol, Tween 80 y aceite de oliva. Los productos se recubrieron mediante inmersión. El rendimiento de extracción del almidón fue de 27,26% por el método de molienda húmeda. Los contenidos de lípidos, fibra cruda, proteínas, carbohidratos y cenizas tendieron a disminuir en los almidones oxidados al aumentar el tiempo de reacción, comportamiento opuesto para la humedad (P≤0,05). La solubilidad y capacidad de absorción de aceite aumentaron en los almidones oxidados, mientras que la absorción de agua y poder de hinchamiento disminuyeron (P≤0,05). La mejor combinación para la formulación de los recubrimientos de almidón oxidado fue 3% (m v-1) de glicerol y 0,3% (m v-1) de aceite. Este recubrimiento redujo las pérdidas de masa y retrasó el proceso de maduración. Los resultados sugirieron que el uso de recubrimientos a base de almidón oxidado de plátano y aceite de oliva es una estrategia eficaz para mantener la calidad y frescura de los frutos durante un periodo de almacenamiento más prolongado.

Abstract Edible films (EFs) present an alternative to increase the shelf life of fruits and vegetables by serving as a barrier for the transfer of oxygen and moisture; and at the same time, to allow the release of compounds with antioxidant and antimicrobial activity into the food. In the present study, films based on sodium alginate (A) were formulated and characterized at different concentrations of melipona honey (M). The EFs were formulated with a concentration of 2 % A and 6 different concentrations of M (from 0 to 1.6 % w/v) and their physical, barrier, mechanical, optical, structural, morphological, and bioactive properties were evaluated. The physical properties of the films showed an increase in thickness and density and a decrease in the percentage of moisture with increasing honey content. The EFs showed a plasticizing effect observed at the highest concentration of M, reflecting an increase of up to 9 % in the percentage of elongation, a decrease in tensile strength, and elastic modulus of 18.36 MPa and 283.88 MPa, respectively. The formulation with 1.6 % M showed suitable physicochemical and plasticizing properties to be used as EFs.

Resumen Las películas comestibles (PCs) presentan una alternativa para incrementar la vida útil de frutas y hortalizas al servir como barrera para la transferencia de oxígeno y humedad; y al mismo tiempo, permitir la liberación de compuestos con actividad antioxidante y antimicrobiana hacia el alimento. En el presente estudio se formuló y caracterizó películas a base de alginato de sodio (A) a distintas concentraciones de miel de melipona (M). Las PCs se formularon con una concentración de 2 % de A y 6 concentraciones diferentes de M (0 hasta 1.6 % p/v) y se les evaluó las propiedades físicas, de barrera, mecánicas, ópticas, estructurales, morfológicas y bioactivas. En las propiedades físicas, las películas presentaron un incremento en el espesor y la densidad, y una disminución en el porcentaje de humedad al incrementar el contenido de miel. Las PCs mostraron un efecto plastificante observado en la mayor concentración de M reflejando un aumento de hasta 9 % en el porcentaje de elongación, una disminución en el esfuerzo a la tensión y módulo elástico de 18.36 MPa y 283.88 MPa, respectivamente. La formulación con 1.6 % de M mostró las propiedades fisicoquímicas adecuadas y propiedades plastificantes para ser usada como PCs.

Abstract Oxalic acid is an organic compound found in green leafy vegetables, which has proven to be effective in delaying ripening by inhibiting ethylene synthesis in fruits such as banana, mango, peach, tomato, plum, and others. In this study, the response to oxalic acid application on postharvest physiology was evaluated in transgenic tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum) variety TA234 with the TomLoxB gene insertion in antisense, at two concentrations of oxalic acid: 3 and 10 mM, during 30 d of storage at 25 ± 1 ºC and a relative humidity of 65 - 70 %. The fruits were harvested at break stage and immersed for 10 minutes in the oxalic acid solution, which was maintained at 25 ºC. Upon treatment, less weight loss, better retention of lightness, delay in the decrease of firmness and hue angle, decrease in lipoxygenase activity, low electrolyte leakage and increase in total phenolics content were observed. The most effective oxalic acid concentration was 3 mM, that extended postharvest life by up to 30 d and reduced deterioration of the genetically modified (GM) tomatoes. In turn, the untreated GM tomatoes showed an acceptable appearance up to day 24 of storage, while the wild type fruits were kept satisfactorily for 15 d.

Resumen El ácido oxálico es un compuesto orgánico que se encuentra en vegetales de hoja verde y que ha demostrado ser eficaz para retrasar la maduración mediante la inhibición de la síntesis de etileno en frutos. En este estudio se evaluó el efecto de la aplicación de ácido oxálico sobre la fisiología poscosecha en frutos de tomate (Solanum lycopersicum) variedad TA234 genéticamente modificados (GM) con la inserción del gen TomLoxB en antisentido, a dos concentraciones de ácido oxálico (3 y 10 mM) durante 30 d de almacenamiento a 25 ± 1 ºC y una humedad relativa del 65 - 70 %. Los frutos en estado break se sumergieron durante 10 min en la solución de ácido oxálico. Se observó una menor pérdida de peso, mejor retención de la luminosidad, un retraso en la disminución de la firmeza y del ángulo hue, disminución de la actividad lipoxigenasa, baja pérdida de electrolitos y un aumento en el contenido de fenoles totales. La concentración más eficaz fue de 3 mM, que prolongó la vida poscosecha hasta 30 d y redujo el deterioro del tomate modificado, mientras los frutos GM testigos tuvieron una vida postcosecha de 24 d y los frutos silvestres testigo se mantuvieron satisfactoriamente por 15 d.

RESUMEN Introducción: la diabetes mellitus es una patología prevalente y por ello la implementación de estrategias prácticas para su diagnóstico son importantes desde la Atención Primaria. Objetivo: determinar los parámetros laboratoriales de los pacientes de la Unidad de Salud Familiar del barrio Chaipe (Encarnación, Paraguay) con moderado a muy alto riesgo de diabetes mellitus tipo 2 según la prueba de FINDRISK. Metodología: estudio prospectivo, observacional, descriptivo, transversal. Se incluyeron pacientes mayores de 18 años que acudieron a consultar en la Unidad de Salud Familiar del barrio Chaipe desde setiembre del 2022 a febrero del 2023. Se aplicó la prueba de FINDRISK para seleccionar a aquellos con moderado a muy alto riesgo de diabetes mellitus tipo 2 para las determinaciones laboratoriales. Resultados: la muestra estuvo conformada por 142 pacientes, con rango de edad menor a 45 años y predominio del sexo femenino. El 42,96 % tenía índice de masa corporal aumentado y 62,68 % circunferencia abdominal de riesgo. El 52,11 % no realizaba actividad física y el 27,46 % no consumía frutas y verduras diariamente. El 25,35 % eran hipertensos, el 11,97 % presentó en alguna oportunidad glicemia elevada y el 56,34 % tenía familiares con diabetes mellitus. El 4,93 % presentó glicemia ≥ 126 mg/dl y el 10,56 % valores de hemoglobina glicosilada (HBA1C) ≥ 6,5 %. El 14,08 % presentó colesterol total ≥ 200 mg/dl y 19,72 % triglicéridos ≥ 150 mg/dl. El 26,65 % presentó 3 o más criterios para síndrome metabólico y se encontró una relación significativa con el riesgo de diabetes mellitus. Conclusiones: se encontró una proporción significativa de pacientes con parámetros laboratoriales de glicemia, HBA1C, colesterol y triglicéridos aumentados.

ABSTRACT Introduction: diabetes mellitus is a prevalent pathology and therefore the implementation of practical strategies for its diagnosis are important from Primary Care. Objective: to determine the laboratory parameters of patients from the United Family Healthcare of the Chaipe neighborhood (Encarnación, Paraguay) with moderate to very high risk of diabetes mellitus type 2 according to the FINDRISK test. Methodology: prospective, observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study. Patients over 18 years of age who came to consult at the United Family Healthcare in the Chaipe neighborhood from September 2022 to February 2023 were included. The FINDRISK test was applied to select those with moderate to very high risk of diabetes mellitus type 2 for the laboratory’s determinations. Results: the sample was made up of 142 patients, with an age range of less than 45 years and a predominance of the female sex. 42.96 % had an increased body mass index and 62.68 % had an abdominal circumference at risk. 52.11 % did not do physical activity and 27.46 % did not consume fruits and vegetables daily. 25.35 % were hypertensive, 11.97 % had high blood glucose at some point and 56.34 % had family members with diabetes mellitus. 4.93 % had blood glucose ≥ 126 mg/dl and 10.56 % had glycosylated hemoglobin (HBA1C) values ≥ 6.5 %. 14.08 % had total cholesterol ≥ 200 mg/dl and 19.72 % had triglycerides ≥ 150 mg/dl. 26.65 % presented 3 or more criteria for metabolic syndrome and a significant relationship was found with the risk of diabetes mellitus. Conclusions: a significant proportion of patients with increased laboratory parameters of glycemia, HBA1C, cholesterol and triglycerides were found.

ABSTRACT Alternative techniques for cultivation without soil are widespread; however, studies comparing hydroponic systems still need to be studied, mainly in semi-arid regions. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of hydroponic systems on the yield and quality of lettuce cultivars subjected to different electrical conductivities of the nutrient solution. The research was conducted in a greenhouse, adopting a completely randomized design in a 2 × 2 × 3 factorial scheme, being two lettuce cultivars (Cinderela and Rubinela), two electrical conductivities (2.90 and 1.6 dS m-1), and three hydroponics systems (NFT, semi-hydroponic, and floating), with three replications. The number of leaves, leaf succulence, specific leaf area, leaf fresh mass, total dry mass, leaf area, titratable acidity, vitamin C, and soluble solids were evaluated. Cinderela cultivar showed the highest average leaf fresh mass, total dry mass, leaf area, and vitamin C values. The NFT and floating systems provided the highest leaf yield and quality, especially in the solution of 1.60 dS m-1. The semi-hydroponic system provided greater development of the plants with a more concentrated nutrient solution (2.90 dS m-1). widespread however studied semiarid semi arid regions greenhouse scheme Rubinela, Rubinela , Rubinela) 2.90 290 90 (2.9 16 1 6 1. m1, m1 m m-1) NFT, (NFT semihydroponic, semihydroponic hydroponic, floating, floating) replications leaves succulence area mass acidity evaluated values 160 60 m1. m-1 . 2.9 29 9 (2. m- 2. (2 (

RESUMO Técnicas alternativas de cultivo sem solo são difundidas; no entanto, estudos comparando os sistemas hidropônicos ainda precisam ser estudados, principalmente em regiões semiáridas. O presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a efeito de sistemas hidropônicos na produtividade e qualidade de cultivares de alface submetidas a diferentes condutividades elétricas da solução nutritiva. A pesquisa foi conduzida em casa de vegetação, adotando delineamento inteiramente casualizado. em esquema fatorial 2 × 2 × 3, sendo duas cultivares de alface (Cinderela e Rubinela), duas condutividades elétricas (2,90 e 1,6 dS m-1), e três sistemas hidropônicos (NFT, semi-hidropônico e floating), com três repetições. Foram avaliados número de folhas, suculência foliar, área foliar específica, massa fresca foliar, massa seca total, área foliar, acidez titulável, vitamina C e sólidos solúveis. A cultivar Cinderela apresentou maior massa fresca de folhas, massa seca total, área foliar, acidez titulável e vitamina C e sólidos solúveis. Os sistemas NFT e floating proporcionaram maior produtividade e qualidade foliar, especialmente na solução de 1,60 dS m-1. O sistema semi-hidropônico proporcionou maior desenvolvimento das plantas com solução nutritiva mais concentrada (2,90 dS m-1). difundidas entanto estudados semiáridas vegetação casualizado 3 Rubinela, Rubinela , Rubinela) 2,90 290 90 (2,9 16 1 6 1, m1, m1 m m-1) NFT, (NFT semihidropônico semi hidropônico floating, floating) repetições folhas específica total solúveis 160 60 m1. 1. m-1 . 2,9 29 9 (2, m- 2, (2 (

RESUMO Objetivou-se descrever os aspectos metodológicos, operacionais e atravessamentos políticos do projeto ‘Avaliação da contaminação ocupacional, ambiental e em alimentos por agrotóxicos na Bacia do Juruena, Mato Grosso (MT)’, realizado entre 2015 e 2019, em municípios de elevada produção agrícola voltada para o agronegócio: Campo Novo do Parecis, Sapezal e Campos de Júlio. Fundamentada na epidemiologia crítica, na vigilância popular e do desenvolvimento, a pesquisa participativa envolveu a população por meio de articulações com prefeituras, sindicatos e escolas públicas e trabalhadores(as) rurais e urbanos. Coletaram-se amostras de matriz ambiental (água, ar, sedimento), alimentar (hortaliças, commodities e animais) e humanas (sangue e urina) e realizou-se um inquérito populacional das condições de saúde autorreferidas, exposição ambiental, alimentar e ocupacional de trabalhadores(as) e moradores(as). Os dados revelaram um processo de contaminação impositiva em todo o território da bacia do rio Juruena, no ambiente, em alimentos, e o adoecimento agudo e crônico supostamente relacionado com a exposição ambiental e ocupacional aos agrotóxicos. O processo participativo na pesquisa almejou fortalecer a luta por territórios saudáveis e sustentáveis mediante redes cooperativas, vigilância popular de base territorial e das populações expostas aos agrotóxicos, além de outros desdobramentos que modifiquem legislações e processos destrutivos do atual modelo de desenvolvimento. Objetivouse Objetivou se metodológicos Avaliação Juruena MT, MT , (MT)’ 201 2019 agronegócio Parecis Júlio crítica desenvolvimento prefeituras trabalhadoresas trabalhadores as trabalhadores(as urbanos Coletaramse Coletaram água, água (água ar sedimento, sedimento sedimento) hortaliças, hortaliças (hortaliças animais sangue urina realizouse realizou autorreferidas moradoresas. moradoresas moradores . moradores(as) ambiente cooperativas (MT) 20 moradores(as (MT 2

ABSTRACT The aim was to describe the methodological, operational, and political aspects of the project ‘Assessment of occupational, environmental and food contamination by pesticides in the Juruena Basin, Mato Grosso (MT)’, carried out between 2015 and 2019 in municipalities with high agricultural production geared towards agribusiness: Campo Novo do Parecis, Sapezal, and Campos de Júlio. Based on critical epidemiology, popular and developmental surveillance, the participatory research involved the population through links with town halls, unions public schools, and rural and urban workers. Environmental (water, air, sediment), food (vegetables, commodities, and animals), and human (blood and urine) samples were collected, and a population survey was carried out on self-reported health conditions, environmental, food, and occupational exposure of workers and residents. The data revealed a process of imposing contamination throughout the territory of the Juruena River basin, in the environment, in food, and in acute and chronic illnesses supposedly related to environmental and occupational exposure to pesticides. The participatory process in the research aimed to strengthen the struggle for healthy and sustainable territories through cooperative networks, grassroots territorial surveillance, and populations exposed to pesticides, as well as other developments that modify legislation and destructive processes of the current development model. methodological operational Assessment Basin MT, MT , (MT)’ 201 agribusiness Parecis Sapezal Júlio epidemiology surveillance halls schools water, water (water air sediment, sediment sediment) vegetables, vegetables (vegetables commodities animals, animals animals) blood urine collected selfreported self reported conditions residents basin environment networks model (MT) 20 (MT 2

Resumen La contaminación ambiental es uno de los factores que favorece el estrés oxidante, ya que expone al organismo a materiales diversos que generan radicales libres y afectan al sistema respiratorio, cardiovascular, inmunológico y nervioso de las personas más vulnerables como los niños, adultos mayores y personas con enfermedades crónicas. Para prevenir o reducir el estrés oxidante, el cual es un desequilibrio entre la producción de radicales libres y la capacidad del organismo de neutralizarlo, se recomienda consumir una dieta equilibrada y rica en antioxidantes naturales los cuales se encuentran diversos alimentos, especialmente en frutas y verduras con colores intensos, en las semillas y las especias. En las últimas décadas se ha demostrado la eficacia del consumo de antioxidantes naturales como: el resveratrol vino, el café, la curcumina, el ajo, la vitamina C, la vitamina E y el té verde que presentan efectos benéficos como: proteger membranas celulares, regular la expresión de genes relacionados con la inflamación, prevenir o reducir el daño endotelial, disminuir la frecuencia o severidad de enfermedades neurodegenerativas, hepáticas y pulmonares, así como estimular al sistema inmunológico.

Abstract Environmental pollution can promote oxidative stress by exposing the body to various elements and substances that generate free radicals, such as lead and vanadium. These free radicals can negatively impact the respiratory, cardiovascular, immune, and neurological systems of vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and those with chronic diseases. To prevent or reduce oxidative stress, it is recommended to consume a balanced diet rich in natural antioxidants. These antioxidants can be found in various foods, especially in fruits and vegetables with intense colors, seeds, and spices. In recent decades, the effectiveness of consuming natural antioxidants such as resveratrol found in wine, coffee, curcumin, garlic, vitamin C, vitamin E, and green tea has been demonstrated. These antioxidants have beneficial effects on the body, including the protection of cell membranes, regulation of gene expression associated with inflammation, prevention or reduction of endothelial damage, and the decrease or diminished severity of neurodegeneration, liver, and pulmonary disorders. Additionally, they stimulate the immune response.

The South African food system is facing severe challenges as increasing hunger, rising food costs, lack of dietary diversity, child stunting, foodborne illnesses, food waste and an obesity epidemic coupled with malnutrition are observed. In this study, we aimed to establish the application of science and technology advances in the food and beverage industry in South Africa in response to food consumption pattern changes since 1994 and how they could be used to address food security challenges. We found that food consumption shifts have been towards sugar-sweetened beverages, processed and packaged food, animal-source foods and added caloric sweeteners, and away from vegetables. These dietary shifts are concerning as they relate to public health. Most commitments to improve the nutritional status of South Africans have been limited to corporate social investment strategies and should be extended into core business strategies. Furthermore, although the South African food and beverage industry has kept pace with developments in food manufacturing practices, there has been little experimentation with non-commercial novel technologies. The expert survey revealed that indigenous African crops and food waste recovery are the two most promising emerging food sources that could be available to South Africans in the shortest time frame. South Africa has many enabling drivers to become a global leader in food technology advances. However, many barriers need to be overcome for industry, academia and government to collaborate to advance novel food science and technologies to reach commercialisation. SIGNIFICANCE: • Drivers and consequences of food consumption changes in South Africa were modelled and broad food consumption trends between 1994 and 2009/2012 were identified. • For the first time, the Access to Nutrition Index methodology was applied to South African owned food companies to identify strategies to enhance nutrition practices. Companies need to do more to deliver affordable and accessible products. • Drivers and barriers in adopting advanced food science and technology were modelled. A collective ecosystem approach with industry, academia and government mobilisation around critical areas like hunger, malnutrition and poverty could be a way to tackle the failing food system.

ABSTRACT: The invasive chinese slug Meghimatiumpictum (Stoliczka, 1873) (Stylommathophora: Philomycidae) is originally from Asia, and it has been introduced in Latin American countries like Argentina and Brazil, where it is considered a critical horticultural pest. This species also became an intermediate host for the nematode AngiostrongyluscostaricensisMorera&Cespedes, 1971(Strongylida: Metastrongylidae), which can cause abdominal angiostrongyliasis in humans when ingested molluscs or their mucus containing larvae released on fruit and vegetables. This research aimed to investigate the biological parameters of the life cycle of M. pictum and evaluate its food preference to understand the species’ behavior and provide information on the choice of safer pest management and control methods. We observed that 68 and 75% of the grouped and isolated slugs, respectively, survived 26 weeks (180 days) under laboratory conditions. In addition, the individuals kept isolated had higher body mass (2.8 ± 0.6 g), length (3.3 ± 0.8 cm), and width (0.37 ± 0.3 cm) than grouped specimens. We also found that M. pictum has indeterminate growth and an annual reproductive cycle. Concerning food preference, slugs better accepted lettuce at different developmental stages (neonate, juvenile, and adult). Our study presents the first description of the M. pictum life cycle. We concluded that M. pictum has undefined biological parameters, which hampers its laboratory rearing. However, we also demonstrate its potential as a pest for different horticultural crops, which will require the development of management strategies. ABSTRACT Stoliczka, Stoliczka (Stoliczka 1873 Stylommathophora (Stylommathophora Philomycidae Asia Brazil AngiostrongyluscostaricensisMoreraCespedes AngiostrongyluscostaricensisMorera Cespedes AngiostrongyluscostaricensisMorera&Cespedes 1971Strongylida Strongylida 1971 1971(Strongylida Metastrongylidae, Metastrongylidae , Metastrongylidae) vegetables M methods 6 75 respectively 2 180 (18 days conditions addition 2.8 28 8 (2. 06 0 0. g, g g) 3.3 33 3 (3. 08 cm, cm 0.37 037 37 (0.3 03 specimens neonate, neonate (neonate juvenile adult. adult . adult) rearing However crops strategies 187 197 7 18 (1 2. (2 3. (3 (0. 19 1 ( (0

RESUMO: A lesma invasora Meghimatium pictum (Stoliczka, 1873) (Stylommathophora: Philomycidae) é originária da Ásia e foi introduzida em países latino-americanos como Argentina e Brasil, onde é considerada uma praga hortícola severa. Esta espécie também se tornou um hospedeiro intermediário do nematoide Angiostrongylus costaricensis Morera & Céspedes, 1971 (Strongylida: Metastrongylidae), que pode causar a infecção angiostrongilíase abdominal em humanos quando ingerido o molusco ou frutas e vegetais contendo o seu muco contaminado com larvas. Esta pesquisa teve como objetivo investigar os parâmetros biológicos do ciclo de vida de M. pictum e avaliar sua preferência alimentar para entender o comportamento da espécie e fornecer informações sobre a escolha futura de métodos mais seguros de manejo e controle desta praga. Observamos que 68 e 75% das lesmas agrupadas e isoladas, respectivamente, sobreviveram 26 semanas (180 dias) em condições de laboratório. Além disso, os indivíduos mantidos isolados apresentaram maior massa corporal (2,8 ± 0,6 g), comprimento (3,3 ± 0,8 cm) e largura (0,37 ± 0,3 cm) do que os espécimes agrupados. Também descobrimos que M. pictum tem crescimento indeterminado e ciclo reprodutivo anual. Com relação à preferência alimentar, a alface foi bem aceita pelas lesmas em diferentes estágios de desenvolvimento (recém-nascido, juvenil e adulto). Nosso estudo apresenta a primeira descrição do ciclo de vida de M. pictum. Concluímos que M. pictum possui parâmetros biológicos indefinidos, com ciclo de vida longo o que dificulta sua criação em laboratório. No entanto, também demonstramos seu potencial como praga para diferentes culturas hortícolas, o que exigirá o desenvolvimento de estratégias de manejo. RESUMO Stoliczka, Stoliczka (Stoliczka 1873 Stylommathophora (Stylommathophora Philomycidae latinoamericanos latino americanos Brasil severa Céspedes 197 Strongylida (Strongylida Metastrongylidae, Metastrongylidae , Metastrongylidae) larvas M 6 75 isoladas respectivamente 2 180 (18 dias laboratório disso 2,8 28 8 (2, 06 0 0, g, g g) 3,3 33 3 (3, 08 cm 0,37 037 37 (0,3 03 agrupados anual recémnascido, recémnascido recém nascido, nascido (recém-nascido adulto. adulto . adulto) indefinidos entanto hortícolas 187 19 7 18 (1 2, (2 3, (3 (0, 1 ( (0

ABSTRACT: Seventy-five pectinolytic strains collected from vegetables grown in the counties of Santarém, Belterra, and Mojuí dos Campos, located in the western region of the Pará State, Brazil, were studied according to their pathological and genetic variability. The strains were grouped in 5 clusters according to pathogenicity in potato, pepper, carrot, and onion, and 38 strains were selected for genetic analysis using rep-PCR. These strains were divided into 35 genetic groups according to rep-PCR at 70% similarity. These results indicated high pathological and genetic variability of the strains causing soft rot in vegetables in the western region of the Pará State, which will be used in etiological research and for the development and assessment of management techniques for the soft rot in vegetables in this region. ABSTRACT Seventyfive Seventy five Santarém Belterra Campos State Brazil potato pepper carrot onion 3 repPCR. repPCR rep PCR. PCR 70 similarity 7

RESUMO: Setenta e cinco isolados de bactérias pectinolíticas coletados de hortaliças cultivadas nos municípios de Santarém, Belterra e Mojuí dos Campos, região oeste do Estado do Pará, Brasil, foram estudadas de acordo com sua variabilidade patológica e genética. Os isolados foram agrupados em cinco grupos de acordo com a patogenicidade em batata, pimenta, cenoura e cebola, e 38 isolados foram selecionados para análise genética por rep-PCR. Esses isolados foram divididos em 35 grupos genéticos de acordo com rep-PCR a 70% de similaridade. Esses resultados indicaram alta variabilidade patológica e genética dos isolados causadores da podridão mole em hortaliças da região oeste do Pará, os quais serão utilizados em pesquisas etiológicas e para o desenvolvimento e avaliação de técnicas de manejo da podridão mole em hortaliças nesta região. RESUMO Santarém Campos Pará Brasil batata pimenta cebola 3 repPCR. repPCR rep PCR. PCR 70 similaridade 7

ABSTRACT: In order to ensure reliable inferences in scientific experiments, sampling criteria should be determined and defined during the experimental design phase. Determining plot and sample sizes without scientific criteria could result in resource and labor inefficiencies with no gain in experimental precision. In this work we estimate plot and sample sizes for biometric variable analyses in lettuce seedlings. The seedlings were sown in four expanded polystyrene foam transplant trays with 128 and 200 cells. Foliar area, stem diameter, shoot height, root length, root volume, root area, fresh and dry shoot and root masses. The methods described by Paranaiba (PARANAIBA et al., 2009) and Cochran (COCHRAN, 1977) were used for plot size and sample size estimations, respectively. Sample size varied according to the variables analysed and transplant tray cell number. Root variables required the highest number of samples. For a 10% margin of error, 12 seedlings were necessary for evaluations in a 128 cell tray, while 11 seedlings were required for analysis in 200 cell trays. ABSTRACT experiments phase precision 20 cells area diameter height length volume masses PARANAIBA al al. 2009 COCHRAN, COCHRAN (COCHRAN 1977 estimations respectively samples 10 error 1 2 197 19

RESUMO: A fim de garantir inferências confiáveis em experimentos científicos, os critérios de amostragem devem ser determinados e definidos durante a fase de planejamento experimental. Determinar tamanhos de parcelas e amostras sem critérios científicos pode resultar em ineficiências de recursos e mão de obra sem ganho de precisão experimental. Neste trabalho estimamos tamanhos de parcelas e amostras para análises de variáveis biométricas em mudas de alface. As mudas foram semeadas em quatro bandejas de transplante de espuma de poliestireno expandido com 128 e 200 células. Área foliar, diâmetro do caule, altura da parte aérea, comprimento da raiz, volume da raiz, área da raiz, parte aérea fresca e seca e massas radiculares. Os métodos descritos por Paranaíba (PARANAÍBA et al., 2009) e Cochran (COCHRAN, 1977) foram utilizados para estimativas de tamanho de parcela e tamanho de amostra, respectivamente. O tamanho da amostra variou de acordo com as variáveis analisadas e o número de células da bandeja de transplante. As variáveis de raiz exigiram o maior número de amostras. Para uma margem de erro de 10%, foram necessárias 12 mudas para avaliação em bandeja de 128 células, enquanto 11 mudas foram necessárias para análise em bandeja de 200 células. RESUMO experimental alface 20 foliar caule radiculares PARANAÍBA al al. 2009 COCHRAN, COCHRAN (COCHRAN 1977 respectivamente 10 10% 1 2 197 19

Abstract: The objective of this work is to carry out a comparative analysis of researches related to the determination of physical-mechanical properties of construction units (adobe and bricks) made of soil, soil-cement, and concrete with various reinforcements, to provide an overview of procedures that could lead to the improvement of the performance of these construction units. The percentage variation of compressive, tensile, flexural strength, thermal insulation, density, and water absorption according to the type of reinforcement and base mortar is analyzed. The incorporation of cement as reinforcement seems to have the greatest effect on improving the compressive strength, plastics on thermal insulation, density, and water absorption, and vegetables on tensile strength.

Resumen: El objetivo del presente trabajo es realizar un análisis comparativo de investigaciones relacionadas a la determinación de propiedades físico-mecánicas de unidades de construcción (adobes y ladrillos) hechos de suelo, suelo-cemento y concreto con refuerzos diversos para proveer un panorama sobre procedimientos que conduzcan a la mejora del desempeño de estas unidades de construcción. Se analiza la variación porcentual de resistencia a la compresión, tensión, flexión, aislamiento térmico, densidad y absorción de agua acorde al tipo de refuerzo y mortero base. La incorporación de cemento como refuerzo parece tener el mayor efecto en la mejora de desempeño por resistencia a la compresión, los plásticos al aislamiento térmico, densidad y absorción de agua y los vegetales en resistencia a la tensión.

SUMMARY Introduction: The food sector includes a reasonable number of workers involved. Empirically, there is no doubt that this sector has work areas that by their nature involve a series of risk factors that can affect the health. Knowing and cataloguing these, in order to be able to draw up a preventive plan, is essential for the health of the worker (and the entity that employs him). This article aims to gather the main occupational risk factors/occupational risks, occupational diseases and recommended protective measures at kitchen workers. Methodology: This is a Scoping Review, initiated through a search carried out in the Medline database (via Pubmed), carried out during the month of November 2023, encompassing articles (in Portuguese and English), with the keywords "kitchen worker" and "occupational" in the title, with no time limit. The risk analysis tool "Online interactive risk assessment" of the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work was used as a complement. Content: The main risk factors found are exposure to chemical agents (products used to clean facilities and/or fruit and vegetables, or by-products from cooking); ergonomic risks (maintained/forced postures; repetitive movements, manual handling of loads); accidents (falls at the same level or at different levels; handling of equipment/utensils that increase the risk of burns, cuts and/or amputations); contact with electrical equipment, noise, heat stress and psychosocial risks. The main occupational diseases refer to musculoskeletal, psychosocial or dermatological conditions. Each unit should, however, be evaluated individually, according to its intrinsic characteristics. Conclusions: The safety and health of kitchen workers are issues that deserve constant attention from employers, regulators and society at large. This article explored some of the main occupational hazards and listed the need for effective preventive measures. Reducing these risks is not only an ethical and legal responsibility, but a smart strategy to improve operational efficiency and quality of services, avoiding accidents, minimizing absenteeism, but also improving the productivity of companies. It would be pertinent to develop investigations that assess the national reality

RESUMO Introdução: O setor da alimentação coletiva inclui um número razoável de trabalhadores envolvidos. Empiricamente, não existem dúvidas de que este setor possui áreas de trabalho que pela sua natureza envolvem uma série de fatores de risco que podem afetar a saúde dos trabalhadores. Conhecer e catalogar os mesmos, de modo a poder elaborar um plano preventivo, é essencial para a saúde do trabalhador (e da entidade que o emprega). Este artigo objetiva reunir os principais fatores de risco/riscos ocupacionais, doenças profissionais associadas e medidas de proteção recomendadas. Metodologia: Trata-se de umaScoping Review, iniciada através de uma pesquisa realizada nas base de dados Medline (via Pubmed), realizada durante o mês de novembro de 2023, englobando artigos (em português e inglês), com as palavras-chave “kitchen worker” e “occupational” no título, sem limite temporal. Utilizou-se como complemento a ferramenta de análise de riscos “Online interactive risk assessment”, da Agência Europeia para a Segurança e Saúde no Trabalho. Conteúdo: Os principais fatores de risco encontrados são exposição a agentes químicos (produtos na higienização das instalações e/ou hortofrutícolas, ou subprodutos derivados da confeção); riscos ergonómicos (posturas mantidas/ forçadas; movimentos repetitivos, manuseamento manual de cargas); riscos de acidentes (quedas ao mesmo nível ou a níveis diferentes; manuseamento de equipamentos/utensílios que aumentem o risco de queimaduras, cortes e/ou amputações); contato com equipamentos elétricos, ruído, stress térmico e riscos psicossociais. As principais doenças profissionais referem-se a condições musculoesqueléticas, psicossociais ou dermatológicas. Cada unidade deverá, no entanto, ser avaliada individualmente, mediante as suas caraterísticas intrínsecas. Conclusões: A segurança e saúde dos trabalhadores das unidades de alimentação coletiva são questões que merecem atenção constante dos Empregadores, reguladores e da sociedade em geral. Este artigo explorou alguns dos principais riscos ocupacionais e listou a necessidade de medidas preventivas eficazes. A redução destes riscos não é apenas uma responsabilidade ética e legal, mas uma estratégia inteligente para melhorar a eficiência operacional e a qualidade dos serviços, evitando acidentes, minimizando o absentismo, mas também melhorando a produtividade das empresas. Seria pertinente desenvolver investigações que avaliassem a realidade nacional.

ABSTRACT Due to the smaller size of berries plants and some vegetables, their production in containers has grown worldwide. To understand the effect of increasing doses of ammoniacal N, we evaluated production, firmness and size of fruits and concentration of macronutrients in leaves of four blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum L.) cultivars (Duke, Legacy, Cargo, and Suziblue) in south central Chile. All were grown in pots with substrate during their third growing season. The results showed an interaction of ammoniacal N dose with blueberry cultivar in most of the parameters evaluated, except for firmness and size of fruits. The increasing dose of ammoniacal N allowed higher production per plant in only two of the four cultivars without effects on the quality attributes firmness and size of fruits. Differences in production per plant and fruit firmness were obtained between cultivars, with production values per plant between 86-210, 142-219, 195-203, and 504-979 g in ʻDukeʼ, ʻLegacyʼ, ʻCargoʼ, and ʻSuziblueʼ, respectively, and greater fruit firmness in ʻSuziblueʼ. The concentrations of macronutrients in leaves showed interactions between cultivar and doses of ammoniacal N, which did not allow obtaining a single dose of ammoniacal N that generate nutritional concentration values in leaves associated with greater fruit production in the four blueberry cultivars.