Production and quality of meat from hair sheep grazing on Tanzania grass and supplemented with different protein levels

Objective: To evaluate the effect of a supplementary feeding (with different crude protein (CP) levels) in the yield and growth performance and meat characteristics of hair lambs grazed on Tanzania grass. Design/Methodology/Approach: A 120-d-1 experiment was conducted; it included four treatments and seven replications in a completely randomized design. Twenty-eight hair lambs (22.6 ± 1.6 kg LW) were allowed to graze on Tanzania grass (Panicum maximum) and were provided concentrate feeds (with 10, 12, 14, and 16% crude protein). The aim was to assess the effects of the latter food on growth, carcass characteristics, and meat quality. Results: Compared with the lambs fed with 10, 12, and 14% CP, the heaviest carcasses (P<0.05) were obtained from lambs fed with 16% CP. The percentage of crude protein and fat of the biceps femoris linearly increased (P<0.05) as the CP percentage increased in the concentrate feed. Meat color, water retention capacity, and cutting force were not impacted by the CP percentage of the concentrate feeds. Compared with the lambs fed with 10, 12, and 14%, the lowest palmitic acid percentage and the highest oleic acid percentage were found in the meat of lambs fed with 16% CP. Study Limitations/Implications: A high area was selected to avoid excessive rain. Findings/Conclusions: Compared with the lambs fed with 10, 12, and 14% CP, the lambs grazed on Tanzania grass and supplemented with 16% CP grew more, recorded a higher carcass yield, and their meat had a better unsaturated fatty acids ratio

Geographic distribution prediction of an invading species in Mexico: the case of the monk parakeet (Myiopsitta monachus): Distribution of the Argentine parrot in Mexico

Objective: Determine the potential distribution of the monk parakeet (Myiopsitta monachus) in Mexico. Design/methodology/approach: We generated the model with confirmed presences of the species, the MaxEnt algorithm, layers of bioclimatic and elevation information. The evaluation, calibration and selection were carried out with the kuenm package in R. Finally, we projected the model to the geographic space of Mexico. Results: The model estimated the most favorable areas for the species in Mexico based on the similarity of the climatic conditions and elevation of the sites with its natural distribution. The most favorable sites for the species are distributed especially in the central–southern portions of the country. Variables influencing its distribution are derived from temperature, precipitation, and elevation. Limitations on study/implications: The model can contribute to the planning of management and monitoring strategies that mitigate the invasion of this species. Findings/conclusions: The areas of Mexico where the risk of invasion of the Argentine parrot is high were identified.Objective: To determine the potential distribution of the monk parakeet (Myiopsitta monachus) in Mexico. Design/methodology/approach: The study generated the model with confirmed presences of the species, the MaxEnt algorithm, and bioclimatic and elevation information. The evaluation, calibration and selection were carried out with the kuenm package in R. The model generated was projected to the geographic space of Mexico. Results: The model estimated the most favorable areas for the species in Mexico, based on the similarity of the climate and elevation conditions of the sites with its natural distribution. The most favorable sites for the species are distributed in the central–southern regions of the country. Variables influencing its distribution are derived from temperature, precipitation and elevation. Limitations on study/implications: The model can contribute to the planning of management and monitoring strategies that mitigate the invasion of this species. Findings/conclusions: The areas in Mexico where there is a high risk of invasion by the monk parakeet were identified

Innovation and development of a new snack based on blue corn and grasshopper.

Objective: Develop a similar snack to marzipan, with higher nutritional quality by adding protein to provide a healthy consumption alternative. Design/methodology/approach: A snack made from blue corn flour, grasshopper, agave honey and cocoa was elaborated. The proportions of the aforementioned ingredients were modified in four different formulations. Acceptance tests were conducted with 140 individuals to determine the formulation with the highest degree of approval and laboratory tests were carried out to determine its nutritional quality. Results: In this research it was possible to develop an innovative nutritional product such as marzipan containing protein, which had a 72% acceptance rate by the participants in the sensorial test. Furthermore, it was managed to use a carbohydrate source from blue corn, which is low on the glycemic index. On the other hand, an attractive packaging design was proposed to capture the consumer's attention, so not only a nutritious snack was developed, but also a marketing package was proposed for its commercialization. Limitations on study/implications: During the development of this product, no preservatives were used, therefore the shelf life for this product is shorter if no preservatives are added. Findings/conclusions: A considered functional snack was successfully developed which also has great potential for becoming a distinguished quality product since it is made with local ingredients from the region or country.  The product was well accepted; besides it was suggested a packaging for its preservation and distribution.bjective: Develop a similar snack to marzipan, with higher nutritional quality by adding protein to provide a healthy consumption alternative. Design/methodology/approach: A snack made from blue corn flour, grasshopper, agave honey and cocoa was elaborated. The proportions of the aforementioned ingredients were modified in four different formulations. Acceptance tests were conducted with 140 individuals to determine the formulation with the highest degree of approval and laboratory tests were carried out to determine its nutritional quality. Results: In this research it was possible to develop an innovative nutritional product such as marzipan containing protein, which had a 72% acceptance rate by the participants in the sensorial test. Furthermore, it was managed to use a carbohydrate source from blue corn, which is low on the glycemic index. On the other hand, an attractive packaging design was proposed to capture the consumer's attention, so not only a nutritious snack was developed, but also a marketing package was proposed for its commercialization. Limitations on study/implications: During the development of this product, no preservatives were used, therefore the shelf life for this product is shorter if no preservatives are added. Findings/conclusions: A considered functional snack was successfully developed which also has great potential for becoming a distinguished quality product since it is made with local ingredients from the region or country.  The product was well accepted; besides it was suggested a packaging for its preservation and distribution

Lychee (Lychee chinensis Sonn.), composition and possible applications

Objective: to mention the importance of the bioactive compounds and fatty acids (FA) present in lychee, in addition to their possible applications Lychee is a fruit originally from Asia, which has sweet pulp and juice, presents an attractive appearance and pleasant flavor, in addition to high nutritional value, so that it is quite accepted by consumers. Lychee is a great source of bioactive compounds such as tannins and vitamin B1. Because of its functionality, it has various uses as in the preparation of teas and medicinal remedies. Because of the functionality it has, it is important to research this fruit in detail and to find possible applications. Therefore, the objective of this study

Forest Management and Tree Species Diversity in a Temperate Forest of the Meseta Purhépecha, Michoacán

Objective: To evaluate how traditional forest management practices impact the diversity and structure of temperate forests in the Nuevo San Juan Parangaricutiro Indigenous Community (ICNSJP), with the goal of providing information on the sustainable management of these forests. Design/methodology/approach: Forest inventory data were collected and analyzed in stands treated with four thinning (A4) through the Silvicultural Development Method (SDM) and contrasted with stands that have not been intervened for more than 30 years (A0). Diversity indices and stand variables were used to statistically compare the effects of the treatments. Results: In total 20 species were recorded, 13 in A0 and 18 in A4. The true diversity (q1) recorded a value of 3.3±1.6 in A4 and 1.9±0.8 in A0, although this difference was not statistically significant. The species with highest importance value were Pinus douglasiana Martinez (30%) for A0 and P. pseudostrobus Lindl (27%) for A4. Limitations on study/implications: According to the SDM, the cutting cycle in A4 has not yet ended since the release and regeneration treatments are missing, therefore, monitoring is recommended to evaluate the effect of the SDM more comprehensively on diversity and structure in the forests of the ICNSJP. Findings/conclusions: Forest management in the ICNSJP has shown a positive effect in terms of species diversity and due to its commercial value, the development of P. pseudostrobus has been favored. In general, forest management has contributed to socioeconomic development by promoting species diversity, a key element for sustainable development

Control of Macrophomina pseudophaseolina Crous, Sarr & Ndiaye with Trichoderma spp. and botanical and chemical pesticides

Chili is the most important traditionally consumed vegetable in Mexico; however, production is reduced by soil fungi. The objective of the research was to evaluate in in vitro, greenhouse and field conditions, the effectiveness of biological, botanical and chemical pesticides for the control of Macrophomina pseudophaseolina. In vitro, greenhouse and field experiments were carried out to evaluate the control effect of different pesticides for the control of M. pseudophaseolina. It was determined that all the evaluated strains of Trichoderma spp. They had a fungistatic effect against M. pseudophaseolina, and T. reesei showed the greatest antagonism and antibiosis against M. pseudophaseolina. High, medium and low doses of NeemAcar® and high and medium doses of Regalia® Maxx inhibited 100% the growth of M. pseudophaseolina mycelium. In the greenhouse, the lowest percentage of severity was obtained in the treatment with Regalia® Maxx + T. reesei. In the field, the lowest severity was determined with the application of NeemAcar® CE + Headline®. The preventive or curative application of biological, botanical and chemical pesticides did not influence the severity of the disease.Objective: The objective of the research was to evaluate in in vitro, greenhouse and field conditions, the effectiveness of biological, botanical and chemical pesticides for the control of Macrophomina pseudophaseolina. Design/methodology/approach: In vitro, greenhouse and field experiments were carried out to evaluate the control effect of different pesticides for the control of M. pseudophaseolina. Results: It was determined that all the evaluated strains of Trichoderma spp. they had a fungistatic effect against M. pseudophaseolina, and T. reesei showed the greatest antagonism and antibiosis against M. pseudophaseolina. High, medium and low doses of NeemAcar® and high and medium doses of Regalia® Maxx inhibited 100% the growth of M. pseudophaseolina mycelium. In the greenhouse, the lowest percentage of severity was obtained in the treatment with Regalia® Maxx + T. reesei. In the field, the lowest severity was determined with the application of NeemAcar® CE + Headline®. Limitations on study/implications: Our results are essential for the management of this disease by producers. Findings/conclusions: The implementation of the use of Trichoderma spp., botanical pesticides and chemical insecticides is recommended for the control of M. pseudophaseolina,

Relationship between feeding protocols and their cost with body development of lactating calves in family milk-production units

Objective: Characterize the feeding protocols and feeding costs, as well as their relationship with the body development of lactating calves until weaning in family milk-production units (FMPU). Methodology: A prospective observational cohort study was carried out. The feeding protocol, and its cost were recorded, in addition, the daily gains in weight (DWG) and height (DHG) between birth and weaning of 193 calves (n=12 FMPU). The information was subjected to descriptive statistics and analysis of variance. Results: In some FMPU, up to 5 feeding protocols were used, and calves with 49 and 138 days until weaning. The predominant feeding consisted of milk replacer plus starter concentrate (28.5%). The costs of the feeding protocols (1162 to 2395 pesos), as well as the DWG (0.346 to 0.721 Kg/day) and DHG (0.114 to 0.216 Cm/day), were statistically different between FMPU (P<0.01). The most expensive feeding protocol had a DWG of 0.555 kg/day and a DHG of 0.161 cm/day. Limitations of study/implications: The nutrient contributions of the feeding protocols were not determined, consequently, whether they covered the calves' nutritional requirements. Conclusions: In FMPU, there is a lack of standardization in feeding protocols and a high variation in their costs, as well as in the duration to weaning. The body development of the calves is suboptimal, influenced by the feeding protocol, where the highest cost is not reflected in the best body development rate

Infiltration in three soil management for soybean growing under rainfed agriculture

Objective: To study infiltration parameters (infiltration rate, cumulative infiltration, saturated hydraulic conductivity, and sorptivity), on the basis of three soil management treatments (subsoiling, ploughing, and harrowing), for soybean (Glycine max) growing, under rainfed agriculture, during three discontinuous years (2020, 2022, and 2023). Design/Methodology/Approach: The experiment was carried out in the region of Tapachula, Chiapas, Mexico. Each treatment was established in 0.50 ha, with independent plots. Two infiltration tests were made per treatment in 2020 and 2023, using cylindrical infiltrometers for 450 minutes in average. During 2020, 2.0 m × 1.50 m soil profiles were made at a depth of 1.50 m to detect the plough layer. Based on this information, the subsoiling depth (0.70 m) was planned. Additionally, three soil samples were extracted at depths of 0-20 cm and 20-40 cm to analyze their physical and chemical properties. Results: Based on their physical properties, texture, organic matter, and soil conditions, the initial moisture and infiltration parameters (2020) were calculated to compare them with the final results (2023). Findings/Conclusions The following infiltration parameters had a marked variability in the subsoiling, ploughing, and harrowing soil management systems, for soybean growing under rainfed agriculture: infiltration rate, cumulative infiltration, saturated hydraulic conductivity, and sorptivity. Infiltration parameters were higher with subsoiling than with the ploughing and harrowing systems

Bioremediation alternatives for total petroleum hydrocarbon removal in agricultural soil

Objective: The purpose of the present study is to highlight the importance of assessing bioremediation and total petroleum hydrocarbon removal by bioaugmentation and biostimulation on the rhizosphere. Design/methodology/approach: An 89-day experiment was established with treatments considering plant (corn) establishment–crude petroleum (25,000 mg kg-1)–bacteria and hydrocarbonoclastic fungi–adding nitrogen and phosphorus to agricultural soil. At the end of the experiment, hydrocarbonoclastic fungal and bacterial populations and total petroleum hydrocarbon removal were assessed. Results: Both microbial groups increased in number and time. The treatment with 120 kg nitrogen ha-1 and 12.5 kg phosphorus ha-1 allowed the highest population (227 x 103 g-1 of colony forming units (CFU) of hydrocarbonoclastic bacteria). A total of 83% petroleum hydrocarbon removal was obtained as established in 89 days. Limitations on study/implications: The effectiveness of bioremediation can vary significantly in real environments due to factors, such as soil variability, climate. Findings/conclusions: The previous results highlight the importance of using these bioremediation techniques to eliminate hydrocarbons in contaminated agricultural soils

Agroecological Alternatives for Pest and Disease Management in Mexican Lime [Citrus aurantifolia (Christm.) Swingle] Cultivation

agroecological alternatives for the integrated management of recurrent pests in Mexican lime (Citrus aurantifolia); as well as to establish possible synergies with the commercial bioinsecticide. Design/methodology/approach: This experiment was conducted in two phases: 1) visual monitoring and pre-identification of pests and fungal diseases in the Mexican lime crop, and 2) application and evaluation of the effect of application of commercial bioinsecticide (Biocanela) and mineral broths (bordeaux broth and sulfocalcium broth) alone and mixtures. Results: The pests with highest incidence were thrips (Pezothrips kellynus), Asian citrus psyllid (Diaphorina citri), whitefly (Bemisia tabaci), fruit fly (Drosophila melanogaster), and red spider mite (Tetranychus urticae), while the main fungal diseases were sooty mold (Capnodium citri), red algae (Cephaleuros virescens), citrus greasy spot (Mycosphaerella citri), and anthracnose (Colletotrichum acutatum). The mixture of mineral broths with the bioinsecticide Biocanela showed the highest fungicide and insecticide activity, and repellency on various pests and diseases of the Mexican lemon crop. Limitations on study/implications: Generate scientific knowledge regarding to the best agroecological alternatives for the integrated management of citrus pests and diseases that are economically and environmentally profitable. Findings/conclusions: Application of the mixture of sulfocalcium broth and Biocanela showed repellency effectiveness against pests such as thrips (Pezothrips kellyanus), Asian citrus psyllid (Diaphorina citri), whitefly (Bemisia tabaci), and fruit fly (Drosophila melanogaster). Likewise, it was effective against sooty mold (Capnodium citri), red algae (Cephaleuros virescens), and citrus greasy spot (Mycosphaerella citri), while the effect was lighter against anthracnose (Colletotrichum acutatum). Additionally, it induces new, healthy shoots in Mexican lemon trees