Computer program for distance learning of pesticide application technology

Abstract

Distance learning presents great potential for mitigating field problems on pesticide application technology. Thus, due to the lack of teaching material about pesticide spraying technology in the Portuguese language and the increasing availability of distance learning, this study developed and evaluated a computer program for distance learning about the theory of pesticide spraying technology using the tools of information technology. The modules comprising the course, named Pulverizar, were: (1) Basic concepts, (2) Factors that affect application, (3) Equipments, (4) Spraying nozzles, (5) Sprayer calibration, (6) Aerial application, (7) Chemigation, (8) Physical-chemical properties, (9) Formulations, (10) Adjuvants, (11) Water quality, and (12) Adequate use of pesticides. The program was made available to the public on July 1 st , 2008, hosted at the web site www.pulverizar.iciag.ufu.br, and was simple, robust and practical on the complementation of traditional teaching for the education of professionals in Agricultural Sciences. Mastering pesticide spraying technology by people involved in agricultural production can be facilitated by the program Pulverizar, which was well accepted in its initial evaluation.

Mobile Application for Adjusting Air-Blast Sprayers in Coffee Plantation

“…They state the efficiency of distance education compared to the traditional study methods. This is due to the fact that the system makes the learning task more active (Maia & Cunha, 2011). Thus, agriculture can benefit from the use of these new technological tools, such as portable devices.…”

“…With this, decision making becomes more assertive, allowing optimization of work (Massruhá & Leite, 2016). Maia & Cunha (2011), who developed the program Pulverizar, for teaching application technology, reported that the program proved to be simple, robust, and practical in complementing the teaching for the training of professionals in the field of Agricultural Sciences related to the area of application of pesticides. Similar to the present app, the authors showed the potential of this type of tool by achieving success in the use of digital technologies for the agricultural sector.…”

Key enzymes and proteins of crop insects as candidate for RNAi based gene silencing

“…Various components of the acetylcholine system, GABA-gated chloride, and sodium channel modulators are targeted by neurotoxins. Organophosphates (OPs), neonicotinoids, and spinosyns inhibit the acetylcholinesterae (AchE) by removing the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (Ach) from its receptor in the post-synapse nerve and cause overstimulation of the nerve cell and finally insect death (Nauen and Denholm, 2005 ; Suiter and Scharf, 2011 ). Further, GABA-gated chloride channels located in the insect central nervous system and peripheral nerves are important target sites for insecticides.…”