Obtaining a lipid extract from peach palm (Bactris gasipaes Kunth) epicarp. Quantification of carotenoid content and application as a food additive

The agro-industrial assessment of fruit by-products as food additives would allow compliance with Sustainable Development Goals. This research aimed at the homogenizer-assisted extraction of total carotenoids from peach palm (Bactris gasipaes) peel (epicarp) with sunflower oil. We also studied its application as a natural additive in white corn flour food. The response surface methodology and the rotational composite central design quantified the extraction process. The studied factors were extraction speed, temperature, time, and liquid-solid ratio. Total carotenoid content in the extract (336.06 µg/g dried epicarp) was optimized at 50°C, with 76 seconds, extraction speed of 19200 rpm, and liquid-solid ratio of 48.75 mL/g. The green extract obtained from homogenizer-assisted extraction constitutes a natural additive with agro-industrial potential for use in roasted corn cake, increasing carotenoid (30.60 µg/g of β-carotene), provitamin A (4.14 µg/g) and antioxidant activity (11.57 % DPPH). Highlights: Homogenizer-assisted extraction (HAE) is adequate for carotenoid extraction in peach palm epicarp. The lipid extract from the peach palm epicarp is a source of provitamin A. Lipid extract obtained is a natural additive with potential for use in corn griddle cakes.The agro-industrial assessment of fruit by-products as food additives would allow compliance with Sustainable Development Goals. This research aimed at the homogenizer-assisted extraction of total carotenoids from peach palm (Bactris gasipaes) peel (epicarp) with sunflower oil. We also studied its application as a natural additive in white corn flour food. The response surface methodology and the rotational composite central design quantified the extraction process. The studied factors were extraction speed, temperature, time, and liquid-solid ratio. Total carotenoid content in the extract (336.06 µg/g dried epicarp) was optimized at 50°C, with 76 seconds, extraction speed of 19200 rpm, and liquid-solid ratio of 48.75 mL/g. The green extract obtained from homogenizer-assisted extraction constitutes a natural additive with agro-industrial potential for use in roasted corn cake, increasing carotenoid (30.60 µg/g of β-carotene), provitamin A (4.14 µg/g) and antioxidant activity (11.57 % DPPH). Highlights: Homogenizer-assisted extraction (HAE) is adequate for carotenoid extraction in peach palm epicarp. The lipid extract from the peach palm epicarp is a source of provitamin A. Lipid extract obtained is a natural additive with potential for use in corn griddle cakes

Pesticide drift: comparing spraying systems under variable field climatic conditions

Safe pesticide application must ensure efficacy in pest control while minimizing environmental and human health risks. This study investigated pesticide potential drift by comparing ground and aerial spraying systems under different climatic conditions. The research was conducted in Rio Verde, Goiás, Brazil, using a randomized block experimental design with 10 repetitions and a 2 x 2 split-plot scheme, considering spraying systems and climatic conditions as factors. Favorable and Unfavorable conditions were determined by relative air humidity, temperature, and wind speed. Aerial spraying was performed using a Cessna aircraft, while terrestrial spraying was done using a self-propelled Montana Parruda sprayer. Variables assessed included Volumetric Median Diameter (VMD), droplet density (DEN), and target coverage. Results revealed that aerial spraying has a higher drift potential, exceeding 180 m, compared to terrestrial spraying, limited to 90 m under unfavorable conditions. Although terrestrial spraying produces larger droplets, its shorter distance to the target and reduced speed minimize lateral movement, limiting drift potential. Droplet density and non-target area coverage were low for both systems, (0.1%). Under ideal conditions, aerial spraying is more efficient, but both methods require rigorous safety measures to prevent contamination risks. This study underlines the importance of considering droplet size and specific environmental conditions when choosing a spraying system, contributing to safer and more efficient agricultural practices. Highlights: Terrestrial spraying produces larger droplets which results in limited drift potential. Aerial spraying has a higher drift potential compared to terrestrial spraying. Aerial spraying is more efficient under favorable environmental conditions. For safer and more efficient agricultural practices it is important considering droplet size and specific environmental conditions.Safe pesticide application must ensure efficacy in pest control while minimizing environmental and human health risks. This study investigated pesticide potential drift by comparing ground and aerial spraying systems under different climatic conditions. The research was conducted in Rio Verde, Goiás, Brazil, using a randomized block experimental design with 10 repetitions and a 2 x 2 split-plot scheme, considering spraying systems and climatic conditions as factors. Favorable and Unfavorable conditions were determined by relative air humidity, temperature, and wind speed. Aerial spraying was performed using a Cessna aircraft, while terrestrial spraying was done using a self-propelled Montana Parruda sprayer. Variables assessed included Volumetric Median Diameter (VMD), droplet density (DEN), and target coverage. Results revealed that aerial spraying has a higher drift potential, exceeding 180 m, compared to terrestrial spraying, limited to 90 m under unfavorable conditions. Although terrestrial spraying produces larger droplets, its shorter distance to the target and reduced speed minimize lateral movement, limiting drift potential. Droplet density and non-target area coverage were low for both systems, (0.1%). Under ideal conditions, aerial spraying is more efficient, but both methods require rigorous safety measures to prevent contamination risks. This study underlines the importance of considering droplet size and specific environmental conditions when choosing a spraying system, contributing to safer and more efficient agricultural practices. Highlights: Terrestrial spraying produces larger droplets which results in limited drift potential. Aerial spraying has a higher drift potential compared to terrestrial spraying. Aerial spraying is more efficient under favorable environmental conditions. For safer and more efficient agricultural practices it is important considering droplet size and specific environmental conditions

Physiological and biochemical responses of Neltuma ruscifolia under Na2SO4 stress

Salt stress limits plant production in arid and semi-arid zones. Although Na2SO4 is frequent in saline soils, most studies on plant physiological responses to salt stress were conducted using NaCl. This study aimed to determine the effect of Na2SO4 salt stress on physiological and biochemical responses in Neltuma ruscifolia. Increasing concentrations of Na2SO4 were added to 6-month-old plants grown hydroponically in 25% Hoagland nutrient solution. After 60 days of saline treatments, biomass, cysteine concentration, gas exchange, mineral composition, abscisic acid and salicylic acid concentrations, and antioxidant enzyme activity were determined. It is concluded that 200 mmol L-1 Na2SO4 is the threshold for N. ruscifolia seedling growth. Growth inhibition can be attributed to altered ionic homeostasis and photosynthesis inhibition after stomatal closure. Nevertheless, the species shows adaptive responses to this salt. Stomatal closure and increased foliar concentrations of abscisic acid contribute to water economy, while cysteine synthesis reduces sulfate toxicity. In parallel, salt stress induces salicylic acidaccumulation in leaves, increasing the activity of antioxidant enzymes that prevent oxidative stress. Highlights: The threshold for growth of Neltuma ruscifoliais 200 mmol L-1 Na2SO4. Salt stress altered ionic homeostasis. Sodium sulfate inhibited photosynthesis due to stomatal closure. Salt stress increased concentrations of abscisic acid and salicylic acid.Salt stress limits plant production in arid and semi-arid zones. Although Na2SO4 is frequent in saline soils, most studies on plant physiological responses to salt stress were conducted using NaCl. This study aimed to determine the effect of Na2SO4 salt stress on physiological and biochemical responses in Neltuma ruscifolia. Increasing concentrations of Na2SO4 were added to 6-month-old plants grown hydroponically in 25% Hoagland nutrient solution. After 60 days of saline treatments, biomass, cysteine concentration, gas exchange, mineral composition, abscisic acid and salicylic acid concentrations, and antioxidant enzyme activity were determined. It is concluded that 200 mmol L-1 Na2SO4 is the threshold for N. ruscifolia seedling growth. Growth inhibition can be attributed to altered ionic homeostasis and photosynthesis inhibition after stomatal closure. Nevertheless, the species shows adaptive responses to this salt. Stomatal closure and increased foliar concentrations of abscisic acid contribute to water economy, while cysteine synthesis reduces sulfate toxicity. In parallel, salt stress induces salicylic acidaccumulation in leaves, increasing the activity of antioxidant enzymes that prevent oxidative stress. Highlights: The threshold for growth of Neltuma ruscifoliais 200 mmol L-1 Na2SO4. Salt stress altered ionic homeostasis. Sodium sulfate inhibited photosynthesis due to stomatal closure. Salt stress increased concentrations of abscisic acid and salicylic acid. Salt stress triggers the species' antioxidant response.

Antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of the woody endocarp of native and commercial walnuts from Argentina

Juglans australis is a tree from the Juglandaceae family found in the southernmost region of America. Its small edible nuts are not commercialized, and their bioactive characteristics are unknown. This study first reports the antioxidant, antiradical, and antibacterial activity of extracts from this native walnut against phytopathogenic bacteria and compared with its commercial counterpart, J. regia L. Different extracts from the woody endocarp (shells) were obtained using methanol and ethyl acetate. Methanolic extracts significantly inhibited phytopathogenic growth at all concentrations tested (0.1, 1, and 10 mg/mL). The best activity was reported against Xanthomonas. Highest total phenolics and the most significant antioxidant activity were determined in methanolic extracts (TPC: 121 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/g of dried peel, FRAP: 58.6 mmol Trolox/100 g of peel dried and 9.7 mM Trolox/100 g of dried peel). Extracts from both species demonstrated congruent patterns. Gallic acid was the most abundant compound in the methanolic extract. However, extracts demonstrated superior efficiency, suggesting a potential synergistic effect among their components. Antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of methanolic extracts against Xanthomonas make them potential control agents. Highlights: First report of antioxidant and antibacterial properties in Juglans australis nuts. Methanolic extracts from walnut shells significantly inhibit Xanthomonas. High phenolic content and antioxidant activity highlight Juglans australis'. Galic acid is the dominant bioactive in methanolic extracts with synergistic effects. Native walnut extracts offer sustainable phytopathogen control alternatives.Juglans australis is a tree from the Juglandaceae family found in the southernmost region of America. Its small edible nuts are not commercialized, and their bioactive characteristics are unknown. This study first reports the antioxidant, antiradical, and antibacterial activity of extracts from this native walnut against phytopathogenic bacteria and compared with its commercial counterpart, J. regia L. Different extracts from the woody endocarp (shells) were obtained using methanol and ethyl acetate. Methanolic extracts significantly inhibited phytopathogenic growth at all concentrations tested (0.1, 1, and 10 mg/mL). The best activity was reported against Xanthomonas. Highest total phenolics and the most significant antioxidant activity were determined in methanolic extracts (TPC: 121 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/g of dried peel, FRAP: 58.6 mmol Trolox/100 g of peel dried and 9.7 mM Trolox/100 g of dried peel). Extracts from both species demonstrated congruent patterns. Gallic acid was the most abundant compound in the methanolic extract. However, extracts demonstrated superior efficiency, suggesting a potential synergistic effect among their components. Antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of methanolic extracts against Xanthomonas make them potential control agents. Highlights: First report of antioxidant and antibacterial properties in Juglans australis nuts. Methanolic extracts from walnut shells significantly inhibit Xanthomonas. High phenolic content and antioxidant activity highlight Juglans australis'. Galic acid is the dominant bioactive in methanolic extracts with synergistic effects. Native walnut extracts offer sustainable phytopathogen control alternatives

Methodological analyses for determining thermal requirements of grape varieties in Tandil, Argentina

This study evaluated the thermal demand of different grapevine varieties (Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Semillón, and Tannat) in Don Bosco, Tandil, Buenos Aires, Argentina. Phenology was evaluated during four productive cycles, identifying periods from budburst to flowering onset (BB-FO), flowering onset to veraison onset (FO-VO), and veraison onset to maturity (VO-M). The National Meteorological Service of Argentina provided daily maximum and minimum air temperatures. Six thermal sum methods were used: methods 1.1, 1.2, and 1.3 depended on base temperature for vine development (10°C); methods 2.1 and 2.2, considered base temperature and optimum temperature (25°C); and method 3, considered base, optimum, and threshold temperature (35°C). These methods were evaluated using the standard error of the thermal sum. Methods 2.2 and 3 best fit all four varieties, allowing adequate estimates of cumulative daily heat summation. Highlights: The thermal requirements of four grapevine varieties (Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Semillón, and Tannat) were evaluated in Tandil, Argentina, using different thermal accumulation methods. Methods that consider optimal temperatures and thresholds (methods 2.2 and 3) showed greater accuracy in estimating phenological stages. Tandil’s climate proved suitable for cultivating red grape varieties, highlighting the region’s viticultural potential. The study highlights the need for precise thermal models to optimize grape management under changing climate conditions.This study evaluated the thermal demand of different grapevine varieties (Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Semillón, and Tannat) in Don Bosco, Tandil, Buenos Aires, Argentina. Phenology was evaluated during four productive cycles, identifying periods from budburst to flowering onset (BB-FO), flowering onset to veraison onset (FO-VO), and veraison onset to maturity (VO-M). The National Meteorological Service of Argentina provided daily maximum and minimum air temperatures. Six thermal sum methods were used: methods 1.1, 1.2, and 1.3 depended on base temperature for vine development (10°C); methods 2.1 and 2.2, considered base temperature and optimum temperature (25°C); and method 3, considered base, optimum, and threshold temperature (35°C). These methods were evaluated using the standard error of the thermal sum. Methods 2.2 and 3 best fit all four varieties, allowing adequate estimates of cumulative daily heat summation. Highlights: The thermal requirements of four grapevine varieties (Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Semillón, and Tannat) were evaluated in Tandil, Argentina, using different thermal accumulation methods. Methods that consider optimal temperatures and thresholds (methods 2.2 and 3) showed greater accuracy in estimating phenological stages. Tandil’s climate proved suitable for cultivating red grape varieties, highlighting the region’s viticultural potential. The study highlights the need for precise thermal models to optimize grape management under changing climate conditions

Net protein requirements for maintenance and weight gain in male guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus) of the Peru breed

Net protein requirements for weight gain (NPg) and maintenance (NPm) in meat-producing guinea pigs are not yet established. The objective of this study was to estimate the requirements for NPm and NPg in male guinea pigs of the Peru breed using the comparative slaughter method. Sixty guinea pigs with an initial body weight (BW) of 393 ±55 g were distributed in five groups of 12 animals. The animals were fed a pelleted diet. At the beginning of the experiment, a reference group with a BW 385.9 ± 44.5 g was slaughtered. Two groups were fed ad libitum, another group received 75% of the feed provided to the ad libitum groups, and a fifth group was kept at the maintenance level. One of the ad libitum-fed groups was slaughtered when its BW reached 846.6 ± 48 g. The other animals, distributed according to their feeding level, were slaughtered when the second ad libitum-fed group reached 1197 ± 84 g BW. The NPm requirement was 3.97 g/kg/EBW0.75 (empty body weight). And the requirement was NPg 2.5 g/kg EBW0.75. The protein use efficiency was 0.629. Highlights: The net protein requirement for weight gain in guinea pigs is 2.5 g/kg EBW75/day. The net protein requirement for maintenance in guinea pigs is 3.7 g/kg EBW75/day. The protein utilization efficiency is 0.629. The endogenous and metabolic nitrogen losses in guinea pigs are 0.6359 g/kg EBW75/day.Net protein requirements for weight gain (NPg) and maintenance (NPm) in meat-producing guinea pigs are not yet established. The objective of this study was to estimate the requirements for NPm and NPg in male guinea pigs of the Peru breed using the comparative slaughter method. Sixty guinea pigs with an initial body weight (BW) of 393 ±55 g were distributed in five groups of 12 animals. The animals were fed a pelleted diet. At the beginning of the experiment, a reference group with a BW 385.9 ± 44.5 g was slaughtered. Two groups were fed ad libitum, another group received 75% of the feed provided to the ad libitum groups, and a fifth group was kept at the maintenance level. One of the ad libitum-fed groups was slaughtered when its BW reached 846.6 ± 48 g. The other animals, distributed according to their feeding level, were slaughtered when the second ad libitum-fed group reached 1197 ± 84 g BW. The NPm requirement was 3.97 g/kg/EBW0.75 (empty body weight). And the requirement was NPg 2.5 g/kg EBW0.75. The protein use efficiency was 0.629. Highlights: The net protein requirement for weight gain in guinea pigs is 2.5 g/kg EBW75/day. The net protein requirement for maintenance in guinea pigs is 3.7 g/kg EBW75/day. The protein utilization efficiency is 0.629. The endogenous and metabolic nitrogen losses in guinea pigs are 0.6359 g/kg EBW75/day

Biofungicide formulation based on Bacillus velezensis EM-A8 for control of maize foliar diseases

The aim was to evaluate inoculum production of Bacillus velezensis EM-A8, a native bacterium of maize phyllosphere, antagonist to foliar pathogens Exserohilum turcicum and Puccinia sorghi. Six economic media were tested: 1) Nutrient Broth (8 g.L-1); 2) Whole soybean flour (40 g.L-1) + sucrose (20 g.L-1); 3) Whole soybean flour (10 g.L-1) + molasses (20 g.L-1), 4) Whole soybean flour (40 g.L-1) + molasses (10 g.L-1); 5) Yeast extract (10 g.L-1) + molasses (5 g.L-1) and 6) Yeast extract (10 g.L-1) + sucrose (5 g.L-1). Growth was determined spectrophotometrically at 620 nm and viability was estimated. M2 showed the shortest generation time (g 1.22 h). M3 and M5 were selected for efficiency and aW was modified with glycerol at 0.97. Inoculums were stored under refrigeration (5°C) and room temperature (20-25°C) for 8 months. At 5°C the viability of the antagonist at 3.3-4.5 log CFU ml-1 was significantly lower than at room temperature (6-6.8 log CFU ml-1), where M5 showed the highest stability. The bioformulation of B. velezensis EM-A8 in M5 at aW 0.97 and stored at room temperature will allow successful control of maize foliar diseases. Highlights: Commercial products and by-products in different media provide high growth and shelf life of B. velezensis EM-A8. Storage temperature significantly affected B. velezensis EM-A8 viability. B. velezensis EM-A8 in growth medium with yeast extract and molasses, modified aW with glycerol at 0.97 and stored at room temperature is a promising product. Liquid formulations stored at room temperature maintained stable viability in 6 log for 8 month.  The aim was to evaluate inoculum production of Bacillus velezensis EM-A8, a native bacterium of maize phyllosphere, antagonist to foliar pathogens Exserohilum turcicum and Puccinia sorghi. Six economic media were tested: 1) Nutrient Broth (8 g.L-1); 2) Whole soybean flour (40 g.L-1) + sucrose (20 g.L-1); 3) Whole soybean flour (10 g.L-1) + molasses (20 g.L-1), 4) Whole soybean flour (40 g.L-1) + molasses (10 g.L-1); 5) Yeast extract (10 g.L-1) + molasses (5 g.L-1) and 6) Yeast extract (10 g.L-1) + sucrose (5 g.L-1). Growth was determined spectrophotometrically at 620 nm and viability was estimated. M2 showed the shortest generation time (g 1.22 h). M3 and M5 were selected for efficiency and aW was modified with glycerol at 0.97. Inoculums were stored under refrigeration (5°C) and room temperature (20-25°C) for 8 months. At 5°C the viability of the antagonist at 3.3-4.5 log CFU ml-1 was significantly lower than at room temperature (6-6.8 log CFU ml-1), where M5 showed the highest stability. The bioformulation of B. velezensis EM-A8 in M5 at aW 0.97 and stored at room temperature will allow successful control of maize foliar diseases. Highlights: Commercial products and by-products in different media provide high growth and shelf life of B. velezensis EM-A8. Storage temperature significantly affected B. velezensis EM-A8 viability. B. velezensis EM-A8 in growth medium with yeast extract and molasses, modified aW with glycerol at 0.97 and stored at room temperature is a promising product. Liquid formulations stored at room temperature maintained stable viability in 6 log for 8 month

Characterization of the pork sector in the productive core of Argentina: a look at small producers

Pros and cons of pork production in Argentina underscore the need to have information to empower pork producers. This study characterizes three pork production strata (Small, Medium, and Large) in north Buenos Aires using surveys (n=40). We provide information on farms, management practices, infrastructure, technology and commercial activities. We found significant differences (p-value < 0.05) between strata in the use of artificial insemination and effluent treatment (mainly through lagoons and soil application) regarding infrastructure and technology. Additionally, there was a trend towards breeding in confined systems as the size of the production increased. Furthermore, despite 72.50% of surveyed producers having reported access to professional veterinary advice, we found a significant difference (p-value = 0.0167) in access between the Small (45.45%) and Large (100%) strata. Regarding commercialization, data indicated piglet sales as the predominant activity, with pig farming serving as a supplementary source of income for most producers. These findings show the need for professional intervention in smaller-scale pig farms to overcome structural barriers and access to the production chain. Highlights: The majority of surveyed pork producers (82.05%) relied on natural mating for breeding, with significantly greater access to artificial insemination in the Large stratum. For the first time, information is presented on effluent disposal and/or treatment processes to reduce contaminants, along with workforce size, within the study area. A Significant proportion of surveyed swine producers (72.50%) received veterinary advice, though there was a statistically difference between the Small and Large strata. Predominant proportion of producers (65%) reported primarily selling piglets, with private sales prevailing in the Small and Medium stratum.Pros and cons of pork production in Argentina underscore the need to have information to empower pork producers. This study characterizes three pork production strata (Small, Medium, and Large) in north Buenos Aires using surveys (n=40). We provide information on farms, management practices, infrastructure, technology and commercial activities. We found significant differences (p-value < 0.05) between strata in the use of artificial insemination and effluent treatment (mainly through lagoons and soil application) regarding infrastructure and technology. Additionally, there was a trend towards breeding in confined systems as the size of the production increased. Furthermore, despite 72.50% of surveyed producers having reported access to professional veterinary advice, we found a significant difference (p-value = 0.0167) in access between the Small (45.45%) and Large (100%) strata. Regarding commercialization, data indicated piglet sales as the predominant activity, with pig farming serving as a supplementary source of income for most producers. These findings show the need for professional intervention in smaller-scale pig farms to overcome structural barriers and access to the production chain. Highlights: The majority of surveyed pork producers (82.05%) relied on natural mating for breeding, with significantly greater access to artificial insemination in the Large stratum. For the first time, information is presented on effluent disposal and/or treatment processes to reduce contaminants, along with workforce size, within the study area. A Significant proportion of surveyed swine producers (72.50%) received veterinary advice, though there was a statistically difference between the Small and Large strata. Predominant proportion of producers (65%) reported primarily selling piglets, with private sales prevailing in the Small and Medium stratum

Milk production, age at first calving, and calving-toconception interval in Holstein, Brown Swiss, and Holstein x Brown Swiss cows

The objective of this study was to evaluate milk production, age at first calving, and calving to conception interval in Holstein, Brown Swiss, and Holstein x Brown Swiss crossbred cows within a pasture-based dairy system in Argentina. The increasing global demand for more resilient and locally adapted dairy systems has led to a renewed interest in crossbreeding to enhance both reproductive and productive efficiency through heterosis. We analyzed data collected over 10 years (2014-2023) from 647 first-lactation cows, including Holstein, Brown Swiss, and Holstein x Brown Swiss crossbred cows. Data were examined using a mixed-effects linear model with breed, season, and their interactions as fixed effect and year as random effect. The results showed no significant differences in milk production between breeds or seasons. However, a significant interaction between breed and season was observed for the calving-to-conception interval, with a shorter interval for crossbred cows during spring-summer (102 days), compared to Holstein cows (156 days). This finding highlights a potential advantage of crossbreeding in reducing open days during the warmest months, thereby enhancing reproductive efficiency in pasture-based systems. This study suggests that crossbreeding can be a viable strategy for improving reproductive performance of dairy systems while maintaining similar milk yield compared to the other breeds, particularly in grazing systems. Highlights: Crossbreeding is increasingly considered in Argentina to improve resilience and efficiency in pasture-based dairy systems. Milk yield, age at first calving, and calving-to-conception interval in 647 first-lactation cows over a ten-year period were evaluated. No significant differences were found among breeds (Holstein, Brown Swiss cows and their cross) for milk yield or age at first calving. A significant interaction between breed and season was detected for calving-to-conception interval. Crossbred cows showed a shorter calving-to-conception interval than Holstein cows during spring and summer (102 versus 156 days).The objective of this study was to evaluate milk production, age at first calving, and calving to conception interval in Holstein, Brown Swiss, and Holstein x Brown Swiss crossbred cows within a pasture-based dairy system in Argentina. The increasing global demand for more resilient and locally adapted dairy systems has led to a renewed interest in crossbreeding to enhance both reproductive and productive efficiency through heterosis. We analyzed data collected over 10 years (2014-2023) from 647 first-lactation cows, including Holstein, Brown Swiss, and Holstein x Brown Swiss crossbred cows. Data were examined using a mixed-effects linear model with breed, season, and their interactions as fixed effect and year as random effect. The results showed no significant differences in milk production between breeds or seasons. However, a significant interaction between breed and season was observed for the calving-to-conception interval, with a shorter interval for crossbred cows during spring-summer (102 days), compared to Holstein cows (156 days). This finding highlights a potential advantage of crossbreeding in reducing open days during the warmest months, thereby enhancing reproductive efficiency in pasture-based systems. This study suggests that crossbreeding can be a viable strategy for improving reproductive performance of dairy systems while maintaining similar milk yield compared to the other breeds, particularly in grazing systems. Highlights: Crossbreeding is increasingly considered in Argentina to improve resilience and efficiency in pasture-based dairy systems. Milk yield, age at first calving, and calving-to-conception interval in 647 first-lactation cows over a ten-year period were evaluated. No significant differences were found among breeds (Holstein, Brown Swiss cows and their cross) for milk yield or age at first calving. A significant interaction between breed and season was detected for calving-to-conception interval. Crossbred cows showed a shorter calving-to-conception interval than Holstein cows during spring and summer (102 versus 156 days).

Remaining in rural areas: towards a rural entrepreneur’s analysis framework

This research employs an empirical approach to understand aspects defining why young people remain in their rural territories. Utilising a rural region of Caldas, Colombia as a case study and based on an agricultural education program for entrepreneurship, information from 368 rural young people was obtained. The study explored a conceptual model shaped by four dimensions and 34 variables. Using a Probit method, we identify significant variables regarding permanence in rural areas. We identify 11 key variables that determine the categories of socio-demographic profile, profile of entrepreneur characteristics, and category of motivations and territory. Our study contributes to literature on rural entrepreneurship from an empirical approach. Additionally, we propose a new analytical framework to address major problems in agriculture and rural territories, particularly in developing countries, such as Latin America. Highlights: This paper proposes an analysis model of the rural entrepreneur, which seeks to understand the aspects that determine the interest of rural young people wanting to stay within their own rural territories. The categories and variables determining the permanence of rural youth in their territory based on entrepreneurship can be divided into an internal environment such as the dimensions of the profile and skills for entrepreneurship, as well as an external environment based on what determines the territory as a motivational factor. The model shows the relevance of the interrelation of dimensions and environments, as even when rural young people have entrepreneurial skills, there are other aspects that promote permanence in the territories.This research employs an empirical approach to understand aspects defining why young people remain in their rural territories. Utilising a rural region of Caldas, Colombia as a case study and based on an agricultural education program for entrepreneurship, information from 368 rural young people was obtained. The study explored a conceptual model shaped by four dimensions and 34 variables. Using a Probit method, we identify significant variables regarding permanence in rural areas. We identify 11 key variables that determine the categories of socio-demographic profile, profile of entrepreneur characteristics, and category of motivations and territory. Our study contributes to literature on rural entrepreneurship from an empirical approach. Additionally, we propose a new analytical framework to address major problems in agriculture and rural territories, particularly in developing countries, such as Latin America. Highlights: This paper proposes an analysis model of the rural entrepreneur, which seeks to understand the aspects that determine the interest of rural young people wanting to stay within their own rural territories. The categories and variables determining the permanence of rural youth in their territory based on entrepreneurship can be divided into an internal environment such as the dimensions of the profile and skills for entrepreneurship, as well as an external environment based on what determines the territory as a motivational factor. The model shows the relevance of the interrelation of dimensions and environments, as even when rural young people have entrepreneurial skills, there are other aspects that promote permanence in the territories