Label Rate Research Articles

Herbicide selection for controlling Tahitian bridal veil (Gibasis pellucida)

AbstractTahitian bridal veil [Gibasis pellucida (M. Martens & Galeotti) D.R. Hunt], a Central and South America native plant that is often confused with another more well-known invasive plant, small leaf spiderwort (Tradescantia fluminensis Vell.), has become invasive in natural areas throughout Florida. However, very little is known regarding herbicide control or other methods. To begin the process of developing herbicide recommendations for land managers who are working to control G. pellucida, multiple postemergence herbicides were screened for efficacy in a shaded greenhouse to determine active ingredients and/or combinations that warrant further investigation under field conditions. Nine different herbicides or combinations, including glyphosate, triclopyr acid, 2,4-D + triclopyr, aminopyralid, 2,4-D, triclopyr amine, metsulfuron-methyl, fluroxypyr, and glufosinate, were applied at standard label rates and compared with a nontreated control group. Visual control ratings were taken at 2, 4, and 8 wk after treatment (WAT), and shoot dry weights were determined at trial conclusion (8 WAT). Data showed glufosinate and triclopyr (acid and amine) provided the highest level of control, as evidenced by control ratings (100% or complete control) and shoot fresh weight reduction, followed by 2,4-D + triclopyr (∼70%) and fluroxypyr (∼50% control). Metsulfuron-methyl and 2,4-D provided the lowest level of control, with results similar to those for nontreated plants on most evaluation dates.

PS-4 Evaluating the Effects of Artificial Rainfall and Permethrin Resistance Status on the Efficacy of Common Pour-On Formulation Delivered to Beef Heifers in a Controlled Environment

Abstract The objective of this study is to determine the impact of rainfall on the duration of efficacy of a commercial pour-on against susceptible (SS) and permethrin resistant (PR) horn flies. Eighteen Angus-Hereford crossbred heifers (BW) were used in a completely randomized design with repeated measures to determine the efficacy and longevity of a permethrin-based pour-on. Animals were randomly assigned to one of two fly infestations (SS or PR) and within infestation to one of three rainfall regimens [no rain (NR), no rain with a pour-on (NP) treatment, and rain with a pour-on (RP) treatment]. All heifers were housed in outdoor roofed pens within the corresponding treatment group and animals with NP and RP groups were treated once on day 0 at the label rate. Once a week for four weeks all animals were placed into individual indoor screened rooms where the fly infestations were administered. Live fly counts were acquired 24 h following each infestation. Animal with RP received approximately 2.54 cm of artificially provided rainfall within 2 hours following each weakly horn fly count. A treatment × day x fly interaction (P < 0.01) was observed. In general, NR groups maintained higher (P < 0.05) populations of SS and PR for 22 and 8 days post-treatment, respectively. Regardless, of fly species, rainfall had no (P > 0.05) influence on product efficacy. In conclusion, insecticide resistance status appears to be more influential than heavy rainfall in the longevity of permethrin-based pour-on products.

Prevalence of H6Y mutation in β-tubulin causing thiophanate-methyl resistant in Monilinia fructicola from Fujian, China

Brown rot disease broke out in stone fruit orchards of Fujian, China in 2019, despite pre-harvest application of methyl benzimidazole carbamate (MBC). To determine the reason, a total of 44 Monilinia fructicola strains were collected from nectarine, plum and peach fruits in this study, among which 79.5% strains were resistant to thiophanate-methyl, indicated by discriminatory dose of 5 μg/mL. The resistance of these strains was confirmed by treating detached peach fruit with label rates of formulated thiophanate-methyl which only completely inhibit infection of the sensitive strains, but not the resistant strains. Further analysis of the mechanism of MBC resistance revealed that all resistant strains carry a H6Y mutation in β-tubulin protein Tub2, which was only reported previously in the M. fructicola strains from California, USA, and do not display obvious fitness penalties, as no significant defects in mycelial growth rate, sporulation, conidia germination, aggressiveness on detached peach fruit and temperature sensitivity was detected. In addition, we found that diethofencarb, the agent for managing MBC-resistance strains, was unable to inhibit growth of the H6Y strains. Taken together, our study, for the first time, identified a mutation form of H6Y in the β-tubulin protein of M. fructicola in China, rendering the strains wide resistance to thiophanate-methyl. This mechanism of M. fructicola gaining resistance to MBC fungicides needs to be fully considered, when designing management strategies to control brown rot disease in stone fruit orchards.

Multiple herbicide resistance in waterhemp (Amaranthus tuberculatus) accessions from Wisconsin

AbstractA comprehensive, Wisconsin state-wide assessment of waterhemp response to a diverse group of herbicide sites of action has not been conducted. Our objective was to characterize the response of a state-wide collection of waterhemp accessions to postemergence (POST) and preemergence (PRE) herbicides commonly used in corn and soybean in Wisconsin. Greenhouse experiments were conducted with more than 80 accessions from 27 counties. POST treatments included 2,4-D, atrazine, dicamba, fomesafen, glufosinate, glyphosate, imazethapyr, and mesotrione at 1× and 3× label rates. PRE treatments included atrazine, fomesafen, mesotrione, metribuzin, and S-metolachlor at 0.5×, 1×, and 3× label rates. Ninety-eight percent and 88% of the accessions exhibited ≥50% plant survival after exposure to imazethapyr and glyphosate POST 3× rate, respectively. Seventeen percent, 16%, and 3% of the accessions exhibited ≥50% plant survival after exposure to 2,4-D, atrazine, and dicamba, respectively, applied POST at the 1× rate. Survival of all accessions was ≤25% after exposure to 2,4-D or dicamba applied POST at the 3× rate, or glufosinate, fomesafen, and mesotrione applied POST at either rate evaluated. No plant of any accession survived exposure to glufosinate at either rate. Forty-five percent and 3% of the accessions exhibited <90% plant density reduction after exposure to atrazine applied PRE at the 3× rate and fomesafen PRE at the 1× rate, respectively. Plant density reduction of all accessions was ≥96% after exposure to fomesafen applied PRE at the 3× rate, or metribuzin, S-metolachlor, and mesotrione applied PRE at the 1× rate. Our results suggest that waterhemp resistance to imazethapyr and glyphosate applied POST is widespread in Wisconsin, whereas resistance to 2,4-D, atrazine, and dicamba applied POST is present to a lower extent. One accession (A75, Fond du Lac County) exhibited multiple resistance to imazethapyr, atrazine, glyphosate, and 2,4-D when applied POST. Overall, atrazine applied PRE was ineffective for waterhemp control in Wisconsin. Proactive resistance management and the use of effective PRE and POST herbicides are fundamental for waterhemp management in Wisconsin.

Ryegrass resistance to glyphosate and amitrole is becoming common in New Zealand vineyards

The prevalence of herbicide resistance in ryegrass (Lolium spp.) in the wine-growing regions in New Zealand is poorly understood. Cases of glyphosate, glufosinate and amitrole-resistant ryegrass were documented in a few vineyards in New Zealand in 2013, but there have been no regional surveys for resistance. To address this knowledge gap, 106 vineyards were visited across the important New Zealand wine-growing regions of Marlborough and Waipara in late February 2021, and Hawke’s Bay and Gisborne in late February 2022, and seed samples from individual plants at each site surviving weed-control measures were collected. Ryegrass was found in more South Island (68%) than North Island (20%) vineyards. These seeds, and those from a susceptible ryegrass population were sown in marked rows into trays (10-20 seeds per herbicide) and grown in a glasshouse. When seedlings reached the 3-4 leaf stage, trays were sprayed at the highest recommended label rate of glyphosate. Samples with enough seed were also screened against additional herbicides, amitrole, glufosinate or clethodim. The results indicated 39% of the surveyed vineyards contained glyphosate-resistant ryegrass, with cases detected across all regions, including 58% of vineyards in Marlborough. Eleven of the 27 Marlborough vineyards screened contained amitrole-resistant ryegrass; six samples were also resistant to glyphosate. However, glufosinate and clethodim were still effective against ryegrass at the sites tested. Considering the levels of herbicide resistance to ryegrass observed in this study, growers should explore alternative weed-suppression measures, including tilling, cover-crops, grazing, mowing and the use of herbicides with different modes of action.

Efficacy of Abamectin against adult spider mite, Tetranychus cinnabarinus (Acari: Tetranychidae) on tomato in Botswana

The efficacy of abamectin against the carmine spider mite (CSM) on tomato was studied in the laboratory at Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Gaborone, Botswana. The acaricide was applied at five dosages including the recommended label rate. Each treatment was replicated three times. The results were analysed using probit analysis where LD50 and LD90 values found with the acaricide were estimated at different assessment periods (24, 48, 72 and 96 hours) following application and used to determine effectiveness of the acaricide. When the treatments were assessed at 24, 48, 72 and 96 h, LD90 values against spider mites were 0.82, 0.71, 0.69 and 0.64. This indicated that abamectin was highly effective against spider mites. The slopes of the probit lines assessed at 24, 48, 72 and 96 h after application were 6.68, 6.97, 6.62 and 4.46. This indicates a rapid change in mortality with increase in acaricide dosage. The study shows that abamectin can be a valuable component of integrated spider mite control programme under Botswana conditions. Further research and field testing is necessary to confirm these laboratory findings.

The association of knowledge, attitudes and behaviors related to salt with 24-h urinary sodium, potassium excretion and hypertensive status

To understand the association between sodium and potassium consumption levels, hypertension and knowledge, attitudes and behaviors (KAB) toward salt and the commitment to effective sodium reduction and potassium supplementation to achieve the purpose of suppressing hypertension. A stratified multistage random sampling method was used to obtain a representative provincial sample of 7512 residents aged 18–69 years through a cross-sectional survey by the Salt Reduction and Hypertension Prevention Project (SRHPP) in Zhejiang Province of China in 2017–2018. A screening including demographic, anthropometric, salt-related KAB and physical measurements was implemented, and 24-h urine of approximately 1/5 of the participants was collected and tested. The mean age was 44.8 years, 50.1% were women, 44.0% lived in urban areas, and hypertension or prehypertension accounted for approximately 35.0%. The mean 24-h urinary sodium and potassium excretion were 3848.5 (1661.1) mg/d and 1491.1 (710.9) mg/d, respectively. KAB in urban areas was generally more favorable than in rural areas, women were better than men, and the optimal blood pressure group was better than the other two groups (P < 0.05). However, the awareness and correct use rate of salt-restricted spoons, low-sodium salt and nutrition labeling were lower. A multivariable linear regression model indicated that KAB had a smaller effect on sodium (two indicators effective for promoting sodium reduction) and a greater effect on potassium (six indicators effective for promoting potassium supplementation) and mainly focused on knowledge and behavior indicators. A multivariable logistic regression model indicated that mastering more knowledge and taking active measures could effectively reduce the transition to hypertension, even if the individual was already in prehypertension. There is much room for improvement of salt-related KAB in the Chinese population. A clear association indicates that KAB can help to reduce sodium and supplement potassium, especially potassium, and help to suppress the development of hypertension. The role of beliefs in KAB should be fully valued and improved, similar to knowledge and behaviors. This study provides important evidence and insight into China’s efforts to meet the targets of salt reduction and hypertension prevention.

Preparation and evaluation of LA-PEG-SPION, a targeted MRI contrast agent for liver cancer.

This study aims to synthesize a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agent that can specifically target the asialoglycoprotein receptor of liver cancer cells and evaluate its ability as a targeted MRI contrast agent. Lactobionic acid (LA) and polyethylene glycol (PEG) were used to modify superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPION) to obtain LA-PEG-SPION. LA-PEG-SPION was uniformly spherical under the electron microscope, with regular morphology and good dispersion. The particle size of LA-PEG-SPION was about 30 ± 4.5 nm, and its surface potential was about 31 ± 1.5 mV. LA-PEG-SPION had no toxicity or low toxicity to HepG2 cells and HeLa cells, even at 400 μg/mL. The uptake of LA-PEG-SPION by HepG2 cells was higher than that of SPION, with increased blue-stained particles. The fluorescent labeling rate of HepG2 cells reached 68.8%, which was higher than that of the control group. In vitro, MRI showed that the T2-weighted signal intensity of HepG2 cells was lower than that of the control group. Conclusively, LA-PEG-SPION nanoparticles are synthesized in a simple and efficient way. They are successfully applied to the T2-weighted contrast-enhanced MRI in liver cancer in vitro, and they have the potential to be used for in vivo research and clinical studies.

Semi-supervised classification of fundus images combined with CNN and GCN.

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is one of the most serious complications of diabetes, which is a kind of fundus lesion with specific changes. Early diagnosis of DR can effectively reduce the visual damage caused by DR. Due to the variety and different morphology of DR lesions, automatic classification of fundus images in mass screening can greatly save clinicians' diagnosis time. To alleviate these problems, in this paper, we propose a novel framework-graph attentional convolutional neural network (GACNN). The network consists of convolutional neural network (CNN) and graph convolutional network (GCN). The global and spatial features of fundus images are extracted by using CNN and GCN, and attention mechanism is introduced to enhance the adaptability of GCN to topology map. We adopt semi-supervised method for classification, which greatly improves the generalization ability of the network. In order to verify the effectiveness of the network, we conducted comparative experiments and ablation experiments. We use confusion matrix, precision, recall, kappa score, and accuracy as evaluation indexes. With the increase of the labeling rates, the classification accuracy is higher. Particularly, when the labeling rate is set to 100%, the classification accuracy of GACNN reaches 93.35%. Compared with DenseNet121, the accuracy rate is improved by 6.24%. Semi-supervised classification based on attention mechanism can effectively improve the classification performance of the model, and attain preferable results in classification indexes such as accuracy and recall. GACNN provides a feasible classification scheme for fundus images, which effectively reduces the screening human resources.

An 18-country analysis of the effectiveness of five front-of-pack nutrition labels

Various front-of-pack food labels (FoPLs) are being introduced across the world, and discussion continues about the most effective label formats to improve consumers’ (i) understanding of the relative healthiness of alternative products and (ii) product choices. Of increasing interest is the relative ability of different types of labels to steer consumers away from unhealthy options (aversion) versus steer them towards healthier options (attraction). The aim of this study was to assess aversion and attraction outcomes for five FoPLs (Health Star Rating, Multiple Traffic Lights, Nutri-Score, Reference Intakes, and Warning Label) across 18 countries (n = 18393). Descriptive analyses assessed improvements in consumer understanding and choice outcomes for each label across three different types of food products. Binary logistic regressions were used to compare the relative ability of the labels to improve respondents’ understanding of product healthiness and their product choices, using the industry-developed Reference Intakes as the comparator. Aversion and attraction effects were assessed for each label/food type combination. Across the total sample, the Nutri-Score performed best in terms of both attraction and aversion results for understanding and simulated choice outcomes, followed by the Multiple Traffic Lights. The Reference Intakes exhibited the weakest performance overall, with the Warning Label and Health Star Rating falling in between. The most effective FoPLs featured a colour-coded spectrum design. The results indicate that front-of-pack labels that are effective in guiding consumers towards healthier food products can also be effective in steering them away from unhealthy options.

Uncertainty in potential savings from improving energy label: A Monte Carlo study of the Swiss residential buildings

This paper models scenarios for energy label based retrofit targets for Switzerland’s residential building sector for 2050. It takes into account the magnitude and uncertainty in the energy performance gap (EPG) between labelled and actual energy consumption using actual energy performance data, as previous work highlighted that the EPG is not evenly distributed across different building labels. A building stock retrofit model is developed to estimate the potential energy savings from improving building performance through increasing energy label rating. A Monte Carlo analysis is applied using real EPG distribution data. The uncertainty in total energy savings is calculated for business-as-usual case and for three scenarios based on the different retrofit incentive policies of different Swiss Cantons. This allows to quantify the uncertainties in energy and emission outcomes of different policy targets arising from the variable EPG. The results show that with the business-as-usual approach it is impossible to achieve the objectives set (9.7 Mt CO2-eq/y vs 0.4 Mt CO2-eq/y by 2050). On the other hand, to reach the targets, a more aggressive policy aiming at renovating all buildings to the highest standards is necessary, that translates into a renovation rate that seems unrealistically high (3.4% per year until 2050 vs the proposed 1.4%). The contribution is to inform stakeholders designing new policies (notably the EU Renovation Wave policies) of the risk related to energy policies.

Large-Scale Monitoring of the Frequency of Ryanodine Receptor Target-Site Mutations Conferring Diamide Resistance in Brazilian Field Populations of Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae).

Simple SummaryFall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda, is a destructive moth pest species on various crops, particularly corn. It is native to the tropical regions of the Western Hemisphere such as Brazil, but recently invaded Africa, India, China, and Australia. Its larval stages damage crops by feeding, and to keep them under damage thresholds, insecticide applications are common. Due to frequent insecticide applications, FAW evolved resistance to different chemical classes of insecticides, including diamides. Field relevant levels of diamide resistance are usually conferred by ryanodine receptor (RyR) mutations and compromising recommended label rates. Diamide resistance in FAW so far remained restricted to laboratory-selected strains. Here, we investigated the frequency of specific resistance mutations in field-collected Brazilian populations of FAW by an F2 screen, selected two populations (BA-R and TF-R) for high levels of diamide resistance, deciphered the genetics of resistance, and employed a molecular genotyping assay to correlate resistance levels with the presence of RyR mutations. Crossin studies indicated that resistance is autosomal and (incompletely) recessive in both strains. F1 backcrosses suggested monogenic resistance, supported by the identification of an I4734M/K target-site mutation in the RyR. Our results will help to sustainably manage diamide resistance in FAW in Brazil.Fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda, is an important lepidopteran pest in the Americas, and recently invaded the Eastern Hemisphere. In Brazil, FAW is considered the most destructive pest of corn and cotton. FAW has evolved resistance to many insecticides and Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) proteins. Here, a large-scale monitoring was performed between 2019 and 2021 to assess diamide insecticide susceptibility in more than 65 FAW populations sampled in corn and cotton. We did not detect a significant shift in FAW susceptibility to flubendiamide, but a few populations were less affected by a discriminating rate. F2 screen results of 31 selected FAW populations across regions confirmed that the frequency of diamide resistance alleles remained rather stable. Two laboratory-selected strains exhibited high resistance ratios against flubendiamide, and cross-resistance to anthranilic diamides. Reciprocal crosses indicated that resistance is autosomal and (incompletely) recessive in both strains. F1 backcrosses suggested monogenic resistance, supported by the identification of an I4734M/K target-site mutation in the ryanodine receptor (RyR). Subsequent genotyping of field-collected samples employing a TaqMan-based allelic discrimination assay, revealed a low frequency of RyR I4790M/K mutations significantly correlated with phenotypic diamide resistance. Our findings will help to sustainably employ diamides in FAW resistance management strategies across crops.

Biological attributes of Salibro™, a novel sulfonamide nematicide. Part 3: biocompatibility with beneficial soil fungi

Summary Over the last few years, novel synthetic nematicides, such as Salibro™ nematicide (a.s. fluazaindolizine - Reklemel™ active), Velum Prime® (a.s. fluopyram) or Nimitz® (a.s. fluensulfone), have been commercialised in various regions around the world. Whilst considerable scientific information exists on their field efficacy against plant-parasitic nematodes, very little has been published on their bio-compatibility with beneficial soil fungi. In this paper in vitro studies are presented with various nematophagous (Athrobotrys, Monacrosporium, Harposporium, Purpureocillium), entomoparasitic (Beauveria, Isaria) and disease-suppressive (Trichoderma) fungi that were exposed to these nematicides under laboratory conditions. Assessments were made on their impact on radial growth and sporulation of those fungi. Clear differences in sensitivity to the nematicides were seen between the different fungi. Intrinsically, fluopyram showed the strongest adverse effects on the tested fungi that often became already visible at a concentration of 5 ppm (a.s.). Negative effects were significant at higher concentrations of 50 ppm. Fluensulfone showed limited adverse impacts on the tested fungi at 5 ppm (a.s.) but clearly inhibited most of the fungi at 50 ppm (a.s.). Fluazaindolizine had the least impact of the novel nematicides, with no adverse effects recorded on any species at 5 ppm (a.s.), and very minor growth reductions at 50 ppm (a.s.). Even when tested at 250 ppm (a.s.) fluazaindolizine still showed no impact on Purpureocillium lilacinum, as well as only a weak impact on some Trichoderma species. Vydate (a.s. oxamyl), which was often included as a traditional carbamate nematicide in the test, also showed excellent bio-compatibility with the tested fungi at concentrations of from 5 to 50 ppm (a.s.). Overall, the studies showed that beneficial soil fungi differ in their intrinsic sensitivity to these modern nematicides. These interactions may be considered when designing integrated nematode management programmes that leverage endemic or introduced biocontrol agents. However, it should be noted that additional studies under field conditions with recommended label rates of the products are needed to confirm the trends seen in these laboratory data.

Effects of Insect Growth Regulators on Ambrosia Beetles (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)

Abstract Ambrosia beetles, especially the granulate ambrosia beetle, Xylosandrus crassiusculus (Motschulsky) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), are serious pests in ornamental nurseries in Georgia during the spring months. Growers spray pyrethroid insecticides to prevent ambrosia beetle attacks on the tree trunk around bud break. Repeated pyrethroid insecticide applications can harm beneficial arthropods and cause a resurgence of minor, secondary pests. Insect growth regulators (IGRs), such as novaluron and azadirachtin, have demonstrated transovarial activity on many insect pests, for which the viability of the eggs was reduced after adult exposure. IGRs, particularly azadirachtin, are also repellent to many insect pests. Thus, the objective of this study was to determine the transovarial and repellent activity of IGRs on ambrosia beetles. Two experiments were conducted in ornamental nurseries in 2019 and 2021. In the first experiment, novaluron, azadirachtin, and permethrin were sprayed as stand-alone and combination treatments with permethrin on maple (Acer) tree bolts. The number of ambrosia beetle attacks was significantly lower in treatments with permethrin in both years. Novaluron and azadirachtin treatments neither reduced ambrosia beetle attacks on the ethanol-infused bolts nor suppressed the recovery of X. crassiusculus from the bolts, suggesting the lack of repellent and transovarial activity, respectively. For the second experiment, novaluron alone and in combination with 1×, 4×, and 8× bark penetrant at the label rate were sprayed on ethanol-infused bolts. None of the novaluron treatments with or without bark penetrant elicited transovarial activity in X. crassiusculus, as the beetle recovery was similar among treatments.

Global stable-isotope tracing metabolomics reveals system-wide metabolic alternations in aging Drosophila

System-wide metabolic homeostasis is crucial for maintaining physiological functions of living organisms. Stable-isotope tracing metabolomics allows to unravel metabolic activity quantitatively by measuring the isotopically labeled metabolites, but has been largely restricted by coverage. Delineating system-wide metabolic homeostasis at the whole-organism level remains challenging. Here, we develop a global isotope tracing metabolomics technology to measure labeled metabolites with a metabolome-wide coverage. Using Drosophila as an aging model organism, we probe the in vivo tracing kinetics with quantitative information on labeling patterns, extents and rates on a metabolome-wide scale. We curate a system-wide metabolic network to characterize metabolic homeostasis and disclose a system-wide loss of metabolic coordinations that impacts both intra- and inter-tissue metabolic homeostasis significantly during Drosophila aging. Importantly, we reveal an unappreciated metabolic diversion from glycolysis to serine metabolism and purine metabolism as Drosophila aging. The developed technology facilitates a system-level understanding of metabolic regulation in living organisms.

Management of Grape Powdery Mildew with an Intelligent Sprayer and Sulfur.

Wine grapes are an important agricultural commodity in the Pacific Northwest, where grape powdery mildew (GPM) is one of the main disease problems. The efficacy of various sulfur concentrations and output volumes from an air blast sprayer retrofitted with the Intelligent Spray System (ISS) were evaluated for the management of GPM. The ISS consists of a LiDAR sensor, Doppler speed sensor, embedded computer, flow controller, and individual pulse-width-modulation solenoid valves at each nozzle. GPM cluster severity ranged from 55 to 75% across all trials in the study when the ISS was used at its default spray rate of 62.5 ml/m3 with micronized sulfur at 6 g/liter, which was significantly higher than all other fungicide treatments but lower than nontreated controls. Similarly, leaf incidence values were highest on nontreated vines, followed by micronized sulfur at 6 g/liter applied at 62.5 ml/m3, with all other fungicide treatments being significantly lower in all trials. Using the ISS at the 62.5 ml/m3 rate and a rotation of locally systemic fungicides resulted in the lowest observed GPM leaf incidence and average cluster severity of 11% in both 2019 and 2020, the lowest cluster severity of all fungicide treatments tested. GPM control with the ISS and micronized sulfur was equivalent to a constant-rate air blast treatment at 6 g/liter when the spray rate of the ISS was increased to 125 ml/m3 or the concentration of sulfur was increased to 24 g/liter. In those cases, the amount of sulfur applied to vines was at or above the minimum label rate from bloom until the end of the season, or the entire season, respectively. This study has shown that sufficient disease control cannot always be expected when pesticides are mixed at the same rate as would be used for a constant-rate sprayer in a variable rate sprayer, especially when contact fungicides such as sulfur are used. With appropriate adjustments, the variable-rate ISS can be a useful tool to reduce pesticide quantities, water needed for mixing, and as a result labor, because fewer trips to refill for a given spray event are needed.

Central sterile supply department (CSSD) management quality sensitive index constructed by management mode under the guidance of key point control theory and its effect on CSSD management quality: a retrospective study

The central sterile supply department (CSSD) ensures the quality of medical care and controls infection. The professional, standardized, and scientific management of the CSSD is prerequisite if a hospital is to realize sustainable development. Based on the management mode and under the guidance of key point control theory, this study developed the CSSD management quality sensitive index to analyze its effects on the management quality of the CSSD. We conducted a retrospective analysis of 282 medical devices processed from January 2020 to June 2020 (the control group), and 280 medical devices sterilized from July 2020 to December 2020 (the observation group). The devices in the control group were cleaned and disinfected according to the conventional operation process, while the observation group used a management quality sensitive index that had been developed according to the management mode, as guided by the key point control theory, and managed by the CSSD. The sensitive indexes of the two groups before and after the intervention were recorded to evaluate the work quality of CSSD medical staff. After the intervention, the process indexes, such as the qualified rate of cleaning quality, qualified rate of assembly, qualified rate of labeling, and correct rate of sterilization, the qualification rate of the sterilization results, the rate of intact packaging, and the rate of intact instruments, the environmental status, packaging quality, cleaning quality, and equipment management scores of the observation group were significantly higher than those of the control group (P<0.05). The incidence of wet packaging in the observation group was significantly lower than that in the control group (P<0.05). The service quality indexes, such as the replenishment time, retrieval time and preparation time of goods, of the observation group were significantly shorter than those of the control group (P<0.05). The quality sensitive index constructed under the guidance of the key point control theory can be used to guide the quality management of the CSSD, improve the processing results of key points in key control processes, and improve the work quality and service quality of the medical staff.

Timing of Ethylene Inhibition Affects Internal Browning and Quality of 'Gala' Apples in Long-Term Low Oxygen Storage.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the timing of ethylene inhibition with preharvest and postharvest 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) treatments on internal browning and quality of ‘Gala’ apples in long-term low O2 storage. ‘Gala’ apples were obtained from the same commercial orchard during their harvesting period for 2 years of study. Preharvest 1-MCP orchard spray (3.8% a.i) was applied at the label rate of 60 g 1-MCP per acre in the first year. Postharvest 1-MCP (1 μl L−1) treatments were made for 24 h at 0.5°C either at harvest time (1 day after harvest) or after storage in controlled atmosphere (CA) in both years. Apples were stored in 1.5 kPa O2 + 0.5 kPa CO2 or 0.6 kPa O2 + <0.5 kPa CO2 for 9 months in the first year and 1.5, 1.0, or 0.5 kPa O2 + 0.5 kPa CO2 for 8 months in the second year. Storage regimes with O2 concentrations less than 1 kPa were based on fruit respiration using SafePod™ technology. After removal from storage, all apples were then evaluated for internal browning and other quality attributes after 1, 7, and 14 days at room temperature (RT, 21–22°C). Internal browning developed in ‘Gala’ apples during both years of study, with up to 16% incidence across treatments in the first year and up to 84% in the second year. Apples stored in 0.5–0.6 kPa O2 had significantly less internal browning during both years of study, compared to apples stored in higher O2. The effect of 1-MCP on internal browning was negligible in 0.5–0.6 kPa O2 storage. ‘Gala’ stored in 1.5 kPa O2 and treated with postharvest 1-MCP after storage had significantly less internal browning with preharvest 1-MCP than those without preharvest treatment. Apples treated with postharvest 1-MCP at harvest time, instead of after storage, did not exhibit this same effect. Preharvest 1-MCP-treated fruit maintained greater firmness retention than those without preharvest 1-MCP, and this effect was further enhanced when 1-MCP was applied after storage. Postharvest 1-MCP had no effect on firmness retention in fruit without preharvest 1-MCP, but lower O2 maintained greater firmness in those apples. Preharvest 1-MCP had no significant effect on internal ethylene concentration, whereas it was reduced by postharvest 1-MCP at harvest time in the first year of study, regardless of storage regimes. However, internal ethylene was only affected by storage regime in the second year, with lower concentration in fruit from 0.5 kPa O2 than in those from higher O2. Greasiness developed only in the second year and postharvest 1-MCP consistently reduced it, regardless of treatment timing and storage regime. There was no greasiness in apples treated with postharvest 1-MCP at harvest and then held in 0.5 kPa O2 for 8 months plus 14 days at room temperature. Soluble solids concentration and malic acid content were slightly higher in ‘Gala’ apples with preharvest 1-MCP compared to those without, whereas there was little and inconsistent effect of postharvest 1-MCP on these attributes. Overall, storage regimes with less than 1 kPa O2 provided the least amount of internal browning and best quality attributes. Ethylene inhibition provided further benefits, but this was dependent on the timing of 1-MCP treatment.

Evaluation of imazapic and flumioxazin carryover risk for Carinata (Brassica carinata) establishment

AbstractCarinata (Brassica carinata A. Braun) is a potential crop for biofuel production, but the risk of injury resulting from carryover of soil herbicides used in rotational crops is of concern. The present study evaluated the carryover risk of imazapic and flumioxazin for carinata. Label rates of imazapic (70 g ai ha−1) and flumioxazin (107 g ai ha−1) were applied 24, 18, 12, 6, and 3 mo before carinata planting (MBP). The same herbicides were applied preemergence right after carinata planting at 1X, 0.5X, 0.25X, 0.125X, 0.063X, and 0X the label rate. When either herbicide was applied earlier than 3 MBP, there was no difference in plant density compared with the nontreated control. Carinata damage was &lt;25% when flumioxazin or imazapic was applied at least 6 MBP in Clayton, NC (sandy loam soil), while in Jackson Springs, NC (coarser-textured soil and higher precipitation), at least 12 MPB were needed to lower plant damage to &lt;25%. Preemergence application of 0.063X each herbicide decreased plant density by 40%, with damage reaching &gt;25%. Quantification of herbicide residues in both soils showed that imazapic moved deeper in the soil profile than flumioxazin. This was more evident in Jackson Springs, where 0.68, 3.52, and 7.77 ng of imazapic g−1 soil were detected (15- to 20-cm depth) when the herbicide was applied at 12, 6 and 3 MBP, respectively, while no flumioxazin residues were detected at the same soil depths and times. When residues were 7.78 and 6.90 ng herbicide g−1 soil in the top 10 cm of soil for imazapic and flumioxazin, respectively, carinata exhibited at least 25% damage. Rotational intervals to avoid imazapic and flumioxazin damage to carinata should be between 6 and 12 MBP depending on soil type and environmental conditions, with longer intervals for the former than the latter.

Tolerance of four dry bean market classes to flufenacet, acetochlor, and S-metolachlor applied preplant incorporated

AbstractCommon bean and azuki bean are poor competitors with weeds and demonstrate sensitivity to herbicides used for weed control in soybean. S-metolachlor, flufenacet, and acetochlor are categorized as Group 15 herbicides and provide control of multiple annual grass and select small-seeded broadleaf weeds. By way of field trials near Exeter and Ridgetown, Ontario, in 2019, 2020, and 2021, four dry bean market classes (azuki, kidney, small red, and white bean) were evaluated for their tolerance to 1× established label rates and 2× rates of S-metolachlor (1,600 and 3,200 g ai ha−1), flufenacet (750 and 1,500 g ai ha−1) and acetochlor (1,700 and 3,400 g ai ha−1) applied preplant incorporated (PPI). Injury was evaluated by assessing visible injury symptoms, density, shoot biomass, height, seed moisture content, and seed yield. Azuki bean was more sensitive to the Group 15 herbicides than other dry bean market classes; the Group 15 herbicides caused a 12% reduction in azuki bean growth at 2 wk after emergence; growth reduction was ≤2% in the other bean classes. Flufenacet (2× rate) was the most injurious treatment, causing a 27% reduction in azuki bean yield. This study concludes that kidney, small red, and white bean have a sufficient margin of crop safety to flufenacet, acetochlor, and S-metolachlor applied PPI. Azuki bean was sensitive to flufenacet; additional research is needed to investigate azuki bean tolerance to acetochlor and S-metolachlor applied PPI.