Biochar is colonized by select arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in agricultural soils.

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) colonize biochar in soils, yet the processes governing their colonization and growth in biochar are not well characterized. Biochar amendment improves soil health by increasing soil carbon, decreasing bulk density, and improving soil water retention, all of which can increase yield and alleviate environmental stress on crops. Biochar is often applied with nutrient addition, impacting mycorrhizal communities.

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in oat-pea intercropping.

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal diversity can be altered by intercropping plant species, as well as N fertilizer applications. This study examined the effects of oat-pea intercropping and N fertilizer addition on the richness and diversity of mycorrhizal species, as well as identified the most common arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) genera recruited for oats and peas in two growing seasons (2019 and 2020). The AMF diversity was higher in an intercropped system compared to their respective monocropping system.

Hand Functions of Myoelectric and 3D-Printed Pressure-Sensored Prosthetics: A Comparative Study.

The loss of an upper limb significantly limits the functional activities of daily living. A huge emphasis is placed on the manipulation, shape, weight, and comfort of a prosthesis, to enable its use as an inherent body part. Even with technological advances, customized upper-extremity myoelectric prosthesis remain heavy and expensive.