Search Results (1,396)

Agricultural expansion in frontier regions is reshaping land-tenure arrangements and accelerating native vegetation loss, posing significant challenges to territorial governance. MATOPIBA, Brazil, epitomizes this dynamic, concentrating long-standing tensions between agribusiness expansion and environmental conservation in the Cerrado biome. This study examines how the Rural Environmental Registry (CAR) reflects these pressures by analyzing property records from 2019 and 2025, mapping overlaps with public lands, and quantifying vegetation change between 1985 and 2024 to evaluate CAR’s potential as a territorial governance instrument. We integrated public datasets, applying geometry validation and cadastral hierarchization procedures. Between 2019 and 2025, registered properties nearly doubled, rising from 7734 to 14,231. Overlaps with protected and public lands were identified, and native vegetation declined by 38.12% over the study period, with losses recorded in approximately 75% of the properties analyzed. These findings indicate that CAR holds significant potential for territorial and environmental governance, but its effectiveness depends on continuous data validation, institutional integration, and strengthened conservation policies. Full article

The northern part of the state of Mato Grosso is located at the intersection of large-scale agricultural production and the Amazon, a tropical biome of great importance for ecosystem services and biodiversity. Agricultural production activities interact with natural capital, among other factors, in land use and in biogeochemical cycles of water and carbon. In this study, we sought to use remote sensing at the regional level to diagnose and spatialize the contribution of agricultural activity to dry areas. Using carbon dioxide orbital models, land use classification techniques, the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI), and Pettitt and Mann–Kendall statistics, the variables were compared spatially for the biogeographic boundary of the Amazon in Mato Grosso in two distinct time frames: (i) over the crop years of the CO₂ efflux model (2020 to 2023), and (ii) over the years 2008 to 2023, with consolidated data from the MODIS sensor system. The hot and cold spots analysis reinforces the correlation of carbon variables to land use; the drought index suggests a spatial correlation to forest loss, where more intense agricultural activity favors drought and inhibits moderate rainfall, and in turn is linked to the amount of forest in the context of intense continentality. Temporally, the statistical diagnosis highlights abrupt changes in 2011, 2013, and 2019, restate the complex relation of tropical forest and biogeochemical cycles, above all with carbon dioxide. Full article

Vegetation carbon stock is a key component of the terrestrial carbon cycle and supports climate-change mitigation and carbon-neutrality strategies. While field inventories provide accurate references, they are constrained by cost and limited scalability, motivating the rapid adoption of remote sensing for large-scale spatial estimation and mapping. However, the literature lacks a consolidated bibliometric and critical synthesis focused on above-ground vegetation carbon stock estimation. Therefore, this review aims to provide a quantitative overview of publication trends, synthesise methodological developments, and identify key research gaps in remote-sensing-based above-ground vegetation carbon stock estimation. A total of 1825 Web of Science records (2015–2024) were retrieved, of which 763 were included for bibliometric mapping using VOSviewer version 1.6.20 and CiteSpace version 6.3.R2, complemented by a critical review of 32 high-quality studies. Results indicate a shift from passive optical and single-index approaches toward active sensing and multi-sensor, multi-platform integration, alongside broad uptake of machine learning and an emerging dominance of deep learning for nonlinear modelling and feature learning. Research attention is expanding beyond forests to non-forest ecosystems, yet challenges persist in spatial resolution, validation data availability, and cross-biome generalizability. This review summarizes methodological trajectories and identifies priorities for robust, transferable above-ground carbon estimation. Full article

The necrotrophic pathogen Sclerotinia sclerotiorum compromises the physiological and anatomical integrity of cotton, leading to substantial economic losses due to rapid tissue necrosis, stem blight, boll rot, and leaf wilting. In this context, the use of endophytic microorganisms emerges as a promising strategy for the biocontrol of white mold. This study tested the hypothesis that endophytic fungal strains isolated from the roots of Butia purpurascens, a palm tree endemic to the Cerrado biome, could mitigate disease symptoms in Gossypium hirsutum L. To evaluate this, cotton plants were subjected to biotic stress imposed by S. sclerotiorum to assess the effectiveness of seven fungal strains in attenuating disease. The impact of the pathogen was monitored through growth variables, gas exchange, leaf temperature, chlorophyll a fluorescence, antioxidant enzyme activity, proline and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, and the incidence of rot in petioles, leaves, and flower buds. Overall, inoculation with endophytic fungi significantly alleviated the effects of the phytopathogen, promoting vegetative growth and optimizing physiological performance. Treated plants exhibited alleviated stress in primary photochemistry, reduced non-photochemical energy dissipation, and stable carbon fixation. Additionally, efficient modulation of the antioxidant system and preservation of anatomical structures were observed, minimizing the severe symptoms of white mold. Notably, the non-pathogenic strains BP10EF (Gibberella moniliformis), BP16EF (Penicillium purpurogenum), and BP33EF (Hamigera insecticola) acted as potent physiological modulators, yielding responses similar to those of healthy plants. These results highlight the biotechnological potential of these endophytic strains, which can be explored as both growth promoters and resistance inducers in cotton against white mold. Full article

This study presents a predictive manufacturing framework for customizing the biomechanical response of a 3D printed ergonomic armrest based on relaxed Voronoi metamaterials. A double curved armrest geometry was combined with parametric lattice generation, stereolithography printing in BioMed Elastic 50A resin, uniaxial compression testing of cylindrical lattice specimens, and homogenized finite element simulations using a CT derived forearm model under 15, 30, and 45 N loading. The results showed that both cell size and ligament thickness strongly affected compressive behavior, with smaller cells and thicker ligaments producing higher stiffness and earlier densification. Among the uniform configurations selected for simulation, the E-9-1.5 lattice provided the most balanced response, maintaining contact pressure below about 70 kPa up to 45 N, whereas the stiffer E-7-1.5 configuration exceeded 160 kPa and the E-7-1 configuration surpassed 100 kPa at higher load. Based on these findings, a functionally graded Voronoi concept was developed to combine a more compliant central zone with a stiffer peripheral support region while preserving conformity to the complex armrest boundary. Overall, the results show that relaxed Voronoi lattices offer a computationally efficient route toward anatomically conforming and mechanically tunable cushioning interfaces. Full article

This study evaluated the fermentative potential of eight industrial strains of Saccharomyces cerevisiae for producing mead from honeys originating from the Caatinga Biome in the semi-arid region of Pernambuco, Brazil. Despite presenting similar ethanol yields around 0.38 g/g, the strains differed in fermentation rate, residual sugar profile, and metabolic composition of the final products. Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains Renaissance TR313 and Fermol Distiller JP1 were selected for more detailed analyses, with JP1 standing out for its higher volumetric productivity (0.23 g/L/h) and shorter fermentation time of 20 days. Further fermentations demonstrated that increasing biomass, supplementing with the inorganic nitrogen source ammonium sulphate, or cell immobilization accelerates fermentation without compromising yield. Thus, the JP1 strain shows promise as a ferment for producing regionally identified mead from honeys typical of the Caatinga biome of the semi-arid Northeast of Brazil. The use of this strain with the honey of the Sertão can characterize the regional product and increase its value. Full article

The Atlantic Forest is a highly diverse biome that is under constant pressure due to human action, resulting in habitat fragmentation and intensifying edge effects, affecting biodiversity. The aim was to study the edge effect and influence of biotic and abiotic parameters on Calliphoridae and Mesembrinellidae communities in Três Picos State Park. Two traps baited using beef liver were placed at each site (n = 5) across 1000 m from the edge toward the interior of the forest, with vegetal characterization at each point. Collections occurred between June 2021 and May 2023, encompassing each season twice. The dipterans were identified taxonomically using a stereoscope microscope with the aid of taxonomic keys, totaling 5476 specimens. Dipteran abundance and species composition were primarily influenced by seasonal variation, while the distance from the forest edge or vegetation structure showed no effect. Abundance peaked during warmer periods, and temperature showed a positive effect on overall dipteran abundance. No species showed a strong association with specific seasons or distance along the edge–interior gradient. These results indicate that, in a relatively continuous and well-preserved forest remnant, edge effects do not lead to significant species loss, and climatic seasonality shapes patterns of dominance and abundance. Our findings highlight the ecological stability of the studied conservation unit and support the use of Calliphoridae and Mesembrinellidae as effective bioindicators. Understanding how dipteran assemblages respond to seasonal and edge-related gradients contributes to the development of cost-effective biomonitoring tools for tropical forest conservation. Full article

Understanding the mechanisms driving patterns of alpha and beta-diversity through temporal variation in taxonomic diversity remains a fundamental question in community ecology surveys. Insects represent a species-rich group playing several roles in ecological processes. However, knowledge of their temporal distribution and seasonality remains limited, particularly in subtropical regions. We investigated intra-annual patterns of alpha and beta-diversity of butterflies in Restinga ecosystems of southern Brazil, a subtropical region characterised by marked seasonality. Butterflies were monitored throughout one year using Malaise interception traps, and data were grouped by season. We tested seasonal differences in temperature and humidity and evaluated their association with patterns of richness, abundance, evenness, and species composition. Temperature was the main environmental filter structuring butterfly assemblages compared to humidity. Butterfly richness and abundance peaked in summer, followed by spring, coinciding with higher temperatures, while diversity declined markedly during winter. Although we expected winter assemblages to represent nested subsets of other seasons, beta-diversity analyses revealed high species turnover among seasons. Our findings demonstrate that temperature drove the structure of butterfly assemblages across seasons, highlighting the importance of monitoring to increase knowledge on the temporal dynamics and distribution of insects in the subtropical region. Full article

Anomalopsychidae Flint, 1981, is a small family of caddisflies comprising two genera: the monotypic Anomalopsyche Flint, 1967, and Contulma Flint, 1969, including 31 described species grouped into the cranifer and spinosa species groups. The genus Contulma is distributed across Costa Rica, the Andes, and the mountainous areas of Brazil and Chile, with six species recorded in Brazil, primarily from the Atlantic Forest biome in the southeastern region. In this study, we describe and illustrate a new species of Contulma from the Cerrado biome of São Paulo State, representing the first record of the genus in this biome. Male specimens were collected using Malaise traps in a stream within a protected area. The new species is distinguished by the presence of both a strongly sclerotized dorsomesal process and a strongly dorsolateral process on tergum IX and by an extremely deep cleft in the posteromesal process of sternum IX, dividing it into two narrow, digitated lobes. Based on its unique combination of characters, the new species cannot be placed unambiguously in either of the species groups. Consequently, C. assisensis sp. nov. is here treated as incertae sedis within Contulma. With this addition, seven species of Contulma are now known from Brazil, most of which are recorded from the Atlantic Forest (6 spp.), especially in the mountainous areas of southeastern Brazil. The discovery of this new species in the Cerrado highlights the underestimated diversity of the genus in Brazil and underscores the importance of regional taxonomic studies for addressing biogeographic and diversity knowledge gaps. The identification key provided enables the differentiation of the seven Contulma species now known from Brazil. Full article

Pythiosis is a neglected infectious disease caused by the aquatic oomycete Pythium insidiosum and remains underrecognized in cattle, particularly in tropical regions. Here, we report the first molecularly confirmed outbreak of bovine pythiosis in the Amazon biome, affecting more than 400 animals raised under extensive production systems and areas with prolonged exposure to standing water. Clinically affected cattle presented ulcerative and exudative cutaneous lesions, predominantly involving the distal limbs. Given the diagnostic challenges associated with pythiosis, etiological confirmation was achieved through quantitative PCR (qPCR) targeting the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of P. insidiosum, providing rapid and specific molecular detection during the outbreak investigation. Therapeutic interventions were implemented as part of routine field management, including intramuscular triamcinolone combined with topical copper sulfate; this regimen was associated with clinical improvement in a substantial proportion of affected animals, though treatment efficacy was not formally evaluated. The outbreak occurred in flood-prone pastures during the rainy season, highlighting the role of aquatic environments in pathogen transmission. These findings expand the current understanding of bovine pythiosis in tropical ecosystems and underscore the importance of molecular diagnostics, outbreak surveillance, and a One Health approach for the identification and management of water-associated pathogens in livestock. Full article

Litter input, including aboveground and belowground plant residues such as leaves, branches, and roots, is a major pathway of carbon return to forest soils. The prevailing paradigm in forest carbon management emphasizes litter input as the primary driver of soil organic carbon (SOC) sequestration. Here, litter input refers specifically to experimental litter manipulation, including litter-addition and litter-removal treatments. Although numerous experimental studies have examined the effects of litter manipulation on SOC, several limitations remain. By synthesizing 1555 global observations, we demonstrate that climate zone, not litter manipulation per se, is the dominant moderator of SOC fraction responses. Litter addition significantly increased labile fractions (light fraction: +60%) but left MAOC largely unchanged. Conversely, litter removal depleted labile pools yet failed to destabilize MAOC. This universal inertia of MAOC challenges the assumption that litter management directly enhances long-term carbon stability. Furthermore, we reveal a critical climate dependency: tropical forests show attenuated carbon gains under litter addition, while temperate systems are more responsive. Our findings necessitate a paradigm shift from uniform litter-based strategies to climate-zone-specific forest management, prioritizing the protection of existing soil carbon in vulnerable biomes over indiscriminate litter augmentation. Full article

The coupling of water and nitrogen (N) availability critically constrains alpine plant growth and ecosystem productivity, yet the mechanistic links between plant functional traits and resource use efficiencies (rain use efficiency, RUE; nitrogen use efficiency, NUE) along precipitation gradients remain unclear. This study aimed to test whether coordinated shifts in plant functional traits are associated with spatial variation in RUE and NUE across a precipitation gradient on the Changtang Plateau. Here, combining transect surveys with N-addition experiments on the Changtang Plateau, we measured biomass and leaf/root functional traits on four typical grasslands and analyzed the spatial variations in RUE, NUE, and fertilizer use efficiency (FUE). Our results demonstrated contrasting spatial patterns: with increasing precipitation, soil resource availability, community species richness, and biomass significantly improved, and vegetation shifted from a water-conservative strategy in arid regions to a nutrient-efficient strategy in humid regions. FUE increased with precipitation (p < 0.05), with low-dose nitrogen addition exerting more pronounced effects in humid regions, indicating greater responsiveness to fertilization. This transition in resource use patterns is underpinned by a coordinated divergence in functional traits: as water limitation eases, communities exhibited decreasing specific root length (high specific root length, SRL) coupled with increasing specific leaf area (high specific leaf area, SLA) along the gradient. Our findings demonstrate that functional trait variation is associated with the optimization of resource acquisition across environmental gradients. These results provide a mechanistic basis for adaptive management in climate-sensitive alpine biomes, where differentiated grassland management schemes may enhance ecosystem productivity—water conservation and reduced disturbance in arid regions, with moderate low-dose nitrogen fertilization and species diversity protection in humid regions. Long-term ecosystem responses to such management approaches require further investigation. Full article

Atmospheric aerosols influence the terrestrial carbon cycle through diverse radiative and biogeochemical effects, yet their net impact on vegetation productivity remains contentious and region-specific. To address this, we analyzed the spatiotemporal coupling between aerosol optical depth (AOD) and net primary productivity (NPP) over three African biomes (2013–2023), using multi-source datasets (MODIS, CERES, ERA5, CRU TS). We explicitly distinguished statistically significant relationships (p < 0.05) from non-significant ones when interpreting correlation patterns. Because AOD is an optical measure and does not provide aerosol composition, interpretations involving dust versus smoke are treated as qualitative and indirect. Through structural equation modeling (SEM), we identified two contrasting mechanistic pathways: in the humid Congo Basin rainforest, aerosols were associated with lower NPP via a cooling-mediated pathway (increased cloud albedo leading to reduced temperature and light availability), whereas in the arid savanna, they were associated with more substantial limitations on NPP via a warming-aggravated pathway (increased temperature and potentially coupled water stress). SEM fit was poor for the semi-arid South African plateau, underscoring the dominant role of water availability in strongly water-limited systems. This framework reconciles the paradox of dual aerosol effects by demonstrating that the net impact is dictated by regional climate context. Overall, our conclusions emphasize context-dependent associations rather than direct causal attribution from correlations alone. Our findings provide a process-based understanding that is critical for improving carbon cycle models and for formulating targeted climate adaptation strategies in Africa. Full article

Forest fires release various chemical compounds that directly degrade air quality and endanger human health. This study examines the occurrence of forest fires in six Brazilian biomes over a 22-year period (1999–2021). The primary purpose is to identify significant meteorological predictors for the monthly number of hot spots using a standardized statistical framework. Fire hotspots were identified using satellite thermal sensors (AVHRR and MODIS), and we employed a standardized negative binomial regression modeling approach to analyze the relationship between meteorological variables and fire hotspots in all six Brazilian biomes simultaneously, providing a comprehensive comparative perspective often lacking in studies focused on isolated regions. The results show that the Amazon and Cerrado biomes have the highest absolute number of fires, which is consistent with their size and vegetation structure. To avoid bias associated with biome size, fire occurrence was additionally estimated using hotspot density normalized by biome area (hotspots per km²). Using these models, significant factors for fire occurrence were identified, namely the main meteorological variables—temperature, precipitation and wind speed. By comparing the performance of the models in different biomes, we aimed to better understand regional fire dynamics. The model’s ability to predict the expected number of fires based on these variables provides a key tool for preventive air quality monitoring. Such a predictive model serves as a basis for developing early warning systems, assessing potential health risks for the population, and adopting targeted fire management policies. Full article

Background: Zygomatic implants (ZIs) were initially pioneered by Brånemark to rehabilitate patients suffering from destructive diseases through original surgical technique (OST). Subsequently, other techniques were proposed, such as the zygomatic anatomy-guided approach (ZAGA). This umbrella review was conceived to quantify and critically characterize the spectrum of complications associated with different techniques of ZI placement. Methods: Systematic reviews, encompassing both those with and without meta-analysis, focusing on the complications associate with ZIs and published only in the English language were systematically sought. A systematic literature search was performed through MEDLINE/Pubmed, Scopus, BioMed Central, and the Cochrane Library, and the PROSPERO register. Results: A total of 11 articles were included. The latter documented the spectrum of complications associated with ZIs, ranging from minor morbidities such as sinusitis, hematoma, and soft tissue complications up to severe adverse events such as orbital penetration and diplopia. Conclusions: The use of described ZI OST and ZAGA in cases of severe maxillary resorption is associated with a high implant survival rate and a low incidence of surgical complications. However, complications, the most common of which were sinusitis and peri-implant soft tissue infection, may be underestimated due to the heterogeneity of the studies included. Full article