ABSTRACT Biochar can promote crop production and soil quality. However, its characteristics depend on the waste used in its production and its effects may vary according to the species being cultivated and the management adopted. The aim of this study was to evaluate the application of biochar from animal waste on soil quality and the agronomic characteristics of the cowpea. An experiment was set up to test three types of biochar (bovine-BB, swine-SB and poultry-BP), with added fertiliser (BBF, SBF and BPF) and two control treatments, including the addition of calcium magnesium oxide (CT) and calcium magnesium oxide with fertiliser (CTF), giving a total of eight treatments with four replications. There was a respective increase of up to 102.94%, 1048%, 1560% and 360.22% in stem diameter, number of pods, number of grains per pod and stem dry matter from adding the biochar. The poultry biochar increased each of the above parameters even with no added fertiliser. There was no difference in basal soil respiration or β-glucosidase enzyme activity, whereas organic carbon (TOC), total nitrogen (TN), microbial carbon and soil labile carbon were greater with biochar. BBF gave the highest TOC content (24.40 g kg-1), while BP and BPF increased TN by around 61%. The application of biochar + fertiliser contributed to an average reduction of 56% in the soil metabolic quotient. Poultry biochar favoured both the agronomic characteristics of the cowpea and soil quality, while bovine biochar showed more marked results with the addition of fertiliser. However adopted bovineBB, bovineBB BB, BB (bovine-BB swineSB swine SB poultryBP, poultryBP , poultry-BP) BBF, (BBF CT (CT CTF, CTF (CTF) replications 10294 102 94 102.94% 1048 1048% 1560 36022 360 22 360.22 diameter pods βglucosidase β glucosidase activity TOC, (TOC) TN, (TN) 24.40 2440 24 40 (24.4 kg1, kg1 kg 1 kg-1) 61 61% 56 quotient poultry-BP (CTF 1029 10 9 102.94 104 156 3602 36 2 360.2 (TOC (TN 24.4 244 4 (24. kg-1 6 5 102.9 15 3 360. 24. (24 kg- 102. (2 (

Resumen La bacteria Escherichia coli causa la colibacilosis en animales de granja que actúan como reservorios de cepas patógenas. La resistencia antimicrobiana de E. coli productor de betalactamasas de espectro extendido [BLEE] es un grave problema de salud pública y se puede atribuir a factores relacionados con el consumo de alimentos y el contacto con animales domésticos. El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar la presencia y patrones de resistencia antimicrobiana de E. coli BLEE aislado en muestras fecales provenientes de bovinos productores de leche de la provincia de Pichincha. Se analizaron un total 182 muestras de heces de bovinos: 112 muestras de bovinos faenados en el Camal Metropolitano de la provincia de Pichincha y 70 muestras de la colección de la Unidad de Investigación de Enfermedades Transmitidas por Alimentos y Resistencias a los Antimicrobianos [UNIETAR], se realizó el aislamiento de E. coli BLEE, la identificación bioquímica y pruebas de resistencia a los principales antibióticos utilizados. Se logró identificar 93 muestras positivas a E. coli BLEE (51 %), el análisis fenotípico reveló que los antibióticos amoxicilina más ácido clavulánico, cefepime, ceftazidima, ciprofloxacina, amikacina y tetraciclina presentaron porcentajes de resistencia mayores al 80 %. Además, se observó una baja resistencia a la nitrofurantoína, cefoxitin y ertapenem, mientras que ningún aislado fue resistente a la tigeciclina. El 100 % de los aislados presentaron fenotipos de multirresistencia y el patrón más frecuente estuvo compuesto por 7 familias de antibióticos. En conclusión, estos resultados sugieren que E. coli originaria de bovinos lecheros podría ser un reservorio de genes BLEE.

Abstract Escherichia coli causes colibacillosis in farm animals that act as reservoirs for pathogenic strains. Antimicrobial resistance of E. coli producing Extended Spectrum Beta-lactamases [ESBL] is a serious public health problem that can be attributed to factors related to food consumption and contact with domestic animals. This study aimed to determine the presence and patterns of antimicrobial resistance of ESBL E. coli isolated from fecal samples from dairy cattle in the Pichincha province. A total of 182 bovine feces samples were analyzed, 112 samples from cattle slaughtered at the official slaughterhouse in Quito-Pichincha province, and 70 samples from the collection of the Foodborne Diseases and Antimicrobial Resistance Research Unit [UNIETAR]. The isolation of ESBL E. coli, biochemical identification, and resistance tests using the main antibiotics were carried out at UNIETAR. It was possible to identify 93 positive samples for ESBL E. coli (51%), phenotypic analysis revealed that antibiotics such as amoxicillin plus clavulanic acid, cefepime, ceftazidime, ciprofloxacin, amikacin, tetracycline, presented resistance higher than 80%. Furthermore, low resistance to nitrofurantoin, cefoxitin, and ertapenem was observed, while no isolate was resistant to tigecycline. One hundred percent of the isolates presented multi-resistance phenotypes, with the most frequent pattern being composed of 7 families of antibiotics. In conclusion, these results suggest that E. coli from dairy cattle origin could be an important reservoir of ESBL genes.

Resumen La mastitis bovina es una enfermedad que afecta a las ganaderías de pequeños y medianos productores de los cantones Cayambe y Pedro Moncayo, Provincia de Pichincha-Ecuador. El tratamiento de esta enfermedad resulta complicado debido a la variedad de microorganismos que la provocan. El presente estudio se enfocó en la determinación molecular por medio de reacción en cadena de la polimerasa (PCR) de los agentes etiológicos de la mastitis. Esta técnica presenta múltiples ventajas al reconocer familia, género y especie de microorganismos, y es un método capaz de detectar genes de resistencia de antibióticos, lo que resulta importante al momento de diagnosticar y tratar enfermedades. El objetivo de esta investigación se centró en la identificación de bacterias causantes de la mastitis bovina, utilizando pruebas bioquímicas y moleculares. Las pruebas bioquímicas como tinción Gram, Catalasa, Coagulasa, y Agar Manitol Sal fueron eficientes para obtener cepas puras y determinar el género de algunas bacterias. Se utilizaron primers específicos (RNA16S) para la identificación molecular de 9 agentes etiológicos causantes de la enfermedad en las unidades productivas. Los microorganismos encontrados fueron; Staphylococcus pasteuri, Staphylococcus warneri, Staphylococcus sp., Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus saprophyticus, Sphingomonas sp., Streptococcus dysgalactiae, Streptococcus uberis, la mayoría presentes en mastitis clínica. Para detectar genes de resistencia se utilizaron primers específicos, de los cuales 7 muestras presentaron el gen para resistencia a blaTEM (β-lactámicos) y 6 muestras presentaron el gen para resistencia a tetA (tetraciclinas). Se identificó multirresistencia en las especies: Staphylococcus pasteuri, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus uberis, Sphingomonas sp.

Abstract Bovine mastitis is a disease that affects the farms of small and medium producers in the cantons of Cayambe and Pedro Moncayo, Pichincha Province-Ecuador. Treating this disease is not easy due to the different microorganisms that cause it. This study focused on the molecular determination by means of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) of the etiological agents of mastitis, having multiple advantages when recognizing family, gender and species of microorganisms. It is a method capable of detecting resistance genes of antibiotics, an important analysis when diagnosing and treating diseases. The aim of this research is to identify bacteria causing bovine mastitis by using biochemical and molecular tests. Biochemical tests such as: Gram staining, Catalase, Coagulase, and Mannitol Salt Agar were efficient to obtain pure strains and determine the gender of some bacteria. Specific primers (RNA16S) were used for the molecular identification of 9 etiological agents causing the disease in the productive units. The microorganisms found were Staphylococcus pasteuri, Staphylococcus warneri, Staphylococcus sp., Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus saprophyticus, Sphingomonas sp., Streptococcus dysgalactiae, Streptococcus uberis, mostly present in clinic mastitis. To detect resistance genes, specific primers were used, of which 7 samples presented the gene for resistance to blaTEM (β-lactam) and 6 samples presented the gene for resistance to tetA (tetracyclines). Multi-resistance was identified in the species Staphylococcus pasteuri, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus uberis, Sphingomonas sp.

ABSTRACT: This study determined the zootechnical, metabolic, and health performance of Girolando calves born with high or low birth weight, conceived through in vitro fertilization. The study was carried out on a commercial dairy farm located in Passos, Minas Gerais, Brazil. For this, a hundred Girolando calves were divided into two groups: The Control, which consisted of calves that were born weighing ≤ 35 kg; and high birth weight (HBW) calves, which were born weighing > 35 kg. The calves were monitored for zootechnical parameters; epidemiological indices, for diseases such diarrhea and pneumonia; as well as serum concentrations of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, gamma-glutamyl transferase, cholesterol, triglycerides, paraoxonase1, albumin, urea, and globulin. Calves from the HBW group had a higher general mortality rate, but no effects on the zootechnical performance or metabolism were observed. The results obtained allow us to conclude that Girolando calves generated by IVF and heavier at birth have a greater chance to present diseases such as omphalophlebitis, tympany, and bovine parasitic sadness, and have a higher rate of general mortality. Conversely, birth weight of the calves does not influence diarrhea or pneumonia, the zootechnical performance, or the metabolism. ABSTRACT metabolic fertilization Passos Gerais Brazil this groups Control 3 kg (HBW parameters indices pneumonia aminotransferase phosphatase gammaglutamyl gamma glutamyl transferase cholesterol triglycerides paraoxonase1 paraoxonase albumin urea globulin observed omphalophlebitis tympany sadness Conversely

RESUMO: Este estudo determinou o desempenho zootécnico, metabólico e saúde de bezerras Girolando nascidas com alto ou baixo peso, concebidas por fertilização in vitro. O estudo foi realizado em uma fazenda leiteira comercial localizada em Passos, Minas Gerais, Brasil. Cem bezerras Girolando foram divididas em dois grupos: Controle, que consistiu em bezerras que nasceram com peso ≤ 35 kg; e HBW, bezerras que nasceram com peso > 35 kg. As bezerras foram monitoradas quanto aos parâmetros zootécnicos; índices epidemiológicos para doenças como diarreia e pneumonia; bem como as concentrações séricas de aspartato aminotransferase, alanina aminotransferase, fosfatase alcalina, gama-glutamil transferase, colesterol, triglicérides, paraoxonase1, albumina, uréia e globulina. As bezerras do grupo HBW apresentaram maior taxa de mortalidade, mas nenhum efeito no desempenho zootécnico ou metabolismo foram observados. Os resultados permitem concluir que bezerras Girolando provenientes de FIV que nascem mais pesadas têm maior chance de apresentar doenças, como onfaloflebite, timpanismo e tristeza parasitária bovina, tendo uma maior taxa de mortalidade geral. Porém, o peso ao nascimento das bezerras não influenciou a ocorrência de diarreia ou broncopneumonia, o desempenho zootécnico e o perfil metabólico. RESUMO vitro Passos Gerais Brasil grupos Controle 3 kg zootécnicos pneumonia aminotransferase alcalina gamaglutamil gama glutamil transferase colesterol triglicérides paraoxonase1 paraoxonase albumina globulina observados onfaloflebite bovina geral Porém broncopneumonia

Abstract Dairy production in Ecuador is a source of economic income for many small and medium producers, however the lack of technical advice leads to problems in the quality of milk, and affects their production volume. The purpose of this investigation was to conduct a pilot plan to improve the quality of milk produced by 57 small producers from different parishes of the cantons of Quito, Rumiñahui and San Miguel de los Bancos in the province of Pichincha, through a training plan in good milking practices and feeding strategies. Two initial samplings were carried out (between October and November 2021) prior to the training, and two final samplings (in June 2022) to measure the impact of the training. A total of 1.273 samples were collected, of these only 4.02 % (52/1273) (of the samples) complied with the reference values of the national regulations, while 95.98 % (1243/1273) did not comply with any of the evaluated parameters; however, the vast majority of the milk is suitable for human consumption, yet its nutritional quality needs to be improved. We were able to reduce considerably (although not statistically) the somatic cell count (SC, from an initial average of 623530 CS ml-1 to 365660 CS ml-1 after training, being correlated with the significant increase in the percentage of lactose between the initial and final sampling; there were also significant differences in the percentage of fat and total solids, although in these two cases their values decreased after training (fat from 2.58 % in the initial sampling to 2.10 % in the final sampling and total solids of 11, 44 % to 11.00 %);showed no significant differences between samples. It is concluded that the training was beneficial since the considerable decrease in the somatic cell count increased the volume of milk production of the small producers, and therefore their economic income. For the rest of the parameters, it is recommended to reinforce training in nutrition, feeding, pasture management, etc., in order to increase their values, as well as to maintain constant training programs for producers, supported by academia, private and public entities.

Resumen La producción láctea en Ecuador es una fuente de ingresos económicos para muchos pequeños y medianos productores; sin embargo, la falta de asesoría técnica conlleva a que tengan problemas en la calidad de la leche y se vea afectado su volumen de producción, por lo que la presente investigación tuvo como finalidad realizar un plan piloto para el mejoramiento de la calidad de leche producida por 57 pequeños productores de diferentes parroquias de los cantones Quito, Rumiñahui y San Miguel de los Bancos de la provincia de Pichincha, mediante un plan de capacitación en buenas prácticas de ordeño y estrategias de alimentación. Se realizaron 2 muestreos iniciales (entre octubre y noviembre de 2021), previo a la capacitación, y 2 muestreos finales (en junio de 2022) para medir el impacto de estas. Se recolectaron 1.273 muestras, donde solamente el 4,02 % (52/1.273) de las mismas, cumplen con los valores referenciales de la normativa nacional, mientras que el 95,98 % (1.243/1.273) no cumple con alguno de los parámetros evaluados; sin embargo, la gran mayoría de dicha leche sí es apta para el consumo humano, pero requiere ser mejorada en su calidad nutricional. Se logró disminuir considerablemente (aunque no estadísticamente) el conteo de células somáticas, de un promedio inicial de 623.530 CS ml-1 a 365.660 CS ml-1 luego de la capacitación, siendo correlacionado con el aumento significativo del porcentaje de lactosa entre el muestreo inicial y el final; también existió diferencias significativas en el porcentaje de grasa y sólidos totales, aunque en estos dos casos disminuyeron sus valores luego de la capacitación (grasa de 2,58 % en el muestreo inicial a 2,10 % en el final y sólidos totales de 11,44 % a 11,00 %). El resto de los parámetros no mostraron diferencias significativas entre los muestreos. Se concluye que la capacitación fue beneficiosa, pues la disminución considerable del conteo de células somáticas aumentó el volumen de producción de leche de los pequeños productores y, por ende, sus ingresos económicos. Para el resto de los parámetros se recomienda reforzar las capacitaciones de nutrición, alimentación, manejo de pasturas, etc., para incrementar sus valores, así como mantener constantes programas de capacitación a los productores, apoyados desde la academia, la empresa privada y entidades públicas.

Resumen: El objetivo fue evaluar el efecto de algunos factores en características de la canal y las correlaciones fenotípicas entre ellas. Se utilizó la información de registro de 514 bovinos Simmental y 178 Simbrah nacidos entre 2011 y 2018 en México. Las características evaluadas fueron área del ojo del lomo (AOL), grasa de la cadera (GC), grasa dorsal (GD), grasa intramuscular ajustada (GI), marmoleo (M) y grado de rendimiento en canal (R). Las medias ajustadas y las correlaciones fenotípicas entre características se estimaron con PROC MIXED y PROC CORR de SAS®. Los efectos fijos incluidos en los modelos fueron: raza, sexo del animal, hato, año de medición, época de medición y edad en días a la medición como covariable lineal; se incluyó al semental anidado en raza como efecto aleatorio. El efecto de raza fue significativo para GC (p<0,001), R (p<0,07) y GD (p<0,07). Los efectos de sexo y época fueron significativos (p<0,001) para todas las características evaluadas. Las correlaciones de AOL con las otras características estudiadas fueron significativas (p<0,001); negativas con GI y M; y positivas con GC, GD y R. Las correlaciones de GC con GD y R fueron importantes y positivas (p<0,001). La selección de fenotipos para aumentar la carne magra puede conducir a una disminución del contenido de grasa. Las correlaciones fenotípicas positivas entre R y los rasgos de calidad de la canal implicarían que los rasgos mencionados pueden mejorarse sin ningún efecto adverso en éstos y R en la población.

Abstract: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of some factors on carcass traits and the phenotypic correlations between them. Records from 514 Simmental and 178 Simbrah bovine individuals born in Mexico between 2011 and 2018 were used. The variables evaluated were rib eye area (AOL), rump fat thickness (GC), back fat thickness (GD), adjusted intramuscular fat (GI), marbling (M) and carcass yield grade (R). Adjusted means and phenotypic correlations between traits were estimated with PROC MIXED and PROC CORR of SAS®. The fixed effects included in the models were breed, sex of the animal, herd, year of measurement, season of measurement, and age in days at measurement as a covariate; sire nested in breed was included as a random effect. The effect of breed was significan for GC (p<0.001), R (p<0.07) and GD (p<0.07). The effects of sex and season were significant (p<0.001) for all the evaluated traits. The correlations of AOL with all other traits were significant (p<0.001); negative with GI and M; and positive with GC, GD, and R. The correlations of GC with GD and R were important and positive (p<0.001). Selecting phenotypes to increase lean meat can lead to a decreased fat content. The positive phenotypic correlations between R and carcass quality traits would imply that the aforementioned traits can be improved without any adverse effects on them and R in the population.

ABSTRACT Peanut (Arachis hypogaea) is an important agricultural crop in Brazil, considered one of the most important oilseed crops cultivated. The use of fertilizer-solubilizing bacteria can mitigate salt stress. The objective of this study was to evaluate the gas exchange, growth, and water use efficiency of the peanut crop irrigated with brackish water under phosphate fertilization and inoculated with bacteria of the genus Bacillus sp. The experimental design used in this study was completely randomized, in a 4 × 2 × 2 factorial scheme, with 5 replicates, referring to the forms of fertilization (F1 - 0% phosphorus, F2 - 50% phosphorus, F3 - 100% phosphorus, and F4 - bovine biofertilizer), presence and absence of the inoculant and two levels of electrical conductivity of the irrigation water (ECw - 0.3 and 4.0 dS m-1). Fertilization with organic fertilizer (100% biofertilizer) and mineral fertilizer (50 and 100% phosphorus) associated with Bacillus sp. mitigated the damage caused by salt stress and promoted greater water use efficiency, chlorophyll index, internal CO2 concentration and stem diameter. The control treatment (without phosphate fertilization and without salt stress) and the application of Bacillus sp. promoted greater performance in net photosynthesis, transpiration rate, stomatal conductance, and plant height in peanut plants. Arachis hypogaea Brazil cultivated fertilizersolubilizing solubilizing exchange growth sp randomized scheme replicates F1 F (F 0 phosphorus 50 100 biofertilizer, biofertilizer , ECw 03 3 0. 40 4. m1. m1 m 1 . m-1) (100 (5 index CO diameter photosynthesis rate conductance plants 10 m-1 (10 ( m- (1

RESUMO O amendoim (Arachis hypogaea) é uma importante cultura agrícola no Brasil, considerada uma das mais importantes oleaginosas cultivadas. O uso de bactérias solubilizadoras de fertilizantes pode mitigar o estresse salino. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar as trocas gasosas, o crescimento e a eficiência do uso da água da cultura do amendoim irrigado com água salobra sob adubação fosfatada e inoculada com bactérias do gênero Bacillus sp. O delineamento experimental utilizado neste estudo foi inteiramente casualizado, em esquema fatorial 4 × 2 × 2, com 5 repetições, referente às formas de adubação (F1 - 0% fósforo, F2 - 50% fósforo, F3 - 100% fósforo e F4 - bovino biofertilizante), presença e ausência do inoculante e dois níveis de condutividade elétrica da água de irrigação (CEa - 0.3 e 4.0 dS m-1). As adubações com fertilizante orgânico (100% de biofertilizante) e mineral (50 e 100% de fósforo) associada a Bacillus sp. mitigou os danos causados pelo estresse salino e proporcionou maior eficiência no uso da água, índice de clorofila, concentração interna de CO2 e diâmetro do caule. O tratamento controle (sem adubação fosfatada e sem estresse salino) e a aplicação de Bacillus sp., promoveu maior desempenho na fotossíntese líquida, taxa de transpiração, condutância estomática e altura das plantas em plantas de amendoim. Arachis hypogaea Brasil cultivadas gasosas sp casualizado repetições F1 F (F 0 50 100 biofertilizante, biofertilizante , CEa 03 3 0. 40 4. m1. m1 m 1 . m-1) (100 (5 clorofila CO caule líquida transpiração 10 m-1 (10 ( m- (1

ABSTRACT The use of Bacillus sp. mitigates salt stress and increases the productive yield in soybean plants. In this context, the objective of the present study was to evaluate the production of soybean grown under different forms of fertilization and salt stress, inoculated with Bacillus sp. The experiment was performed in the experimental area of the University of International Integration of Afro-Brazilian Lusophony (UNILAB), Redenção, Ceará, Brazil. A completely randomized design was used in a 4 x 2 x 2 factorial scheme, with five replications, corresponding to four forms of fertilization (F1 = 100% of the NPK recommendation; F2 = 50% of the NPK recommendation; F3 = 100% bovine biofertilizer; F4 = organomineral fertilization - 50% NPK + 50% bovine biofertilizer), two electrical conductivities of the irrigation water (ECw - 0.3 and 4.0 dS m-1), with and without inoculation of Bacillus sp. The forms of fertilization organic with 100% of the recommendation through bovine biofertilizer, organomineral fertilization - 50% mineral and 50% organic with bovine biofertilizer, and 50% of the NPK recommendation promote greater productive performance of the soybean crop irrigated with water of lower salinity. Organomineral fertilization - 50% mineral and 50% organic with bovine biofertilizer was more efficient for soybean production, in the absence or presence of Bacillus sp. Salt stress negatively affected the production components of soybean crop under all forms of fertilization. sp plants context AfroBrazilian Afro Brazilian UNILAB, UNILAB , (UNILAB) Redenção Ceará Brazil scheme replications F1 F (F 100 50 biofertilizer) ECw 03 0 3 0. 40 4. m1, m1 m 1 m-1) salinity (UNILAB 10 5 m-1 m-

RESUMO O uso de Bacillus sp. atenua o estresse salino e aumenta o rendimento produtivo em plantas de soja. Neste contexto, o objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar a produção da soja cultivada sob diferentes formas de adubação e estresse salino, inoculada com Bacillus sp. O experimento foi realizado na área experimental da Universidade da Integração Internacional da Lusofonia Afro-Brasileira (UNILAB), Redenção, Ceará. Utilizou-se um delineamento inteiramente casualizado em esquema fatorial 4 x 2 x 2, com cinco repetições, correspondente a quatro formas de adubação (F1 = 100% da recomendação de NPK; F2 = 50% da recomendação de NPK; F3 = 100% de biofertilizante bovino; F4 = organomineral - 50% de NPK + 50% de biofertilizante bovino), duas condutividades elétricas da água de irrigação (CEa - 0,3 e 4,0 dS m-1), com e sem inoculação de Bacillus sp. As formas de adubação orgânica com 100% da recomendação através de biofertilizante bovino, adubação organomineral - 50% mineral e 50% orgânica com biofertilizante bovino e 50% da recomendação de NPK, proporcionam maior desempenho produtivo da cultura soja irrigada com água de menor salinidade. A adubação organomineral - 50% mineral e 50% orgânica com biofertilizante bovino, foi mais eficiente para produção da cultura da soja, na ausência ou presença de Bacillus sp. O estresse salino afetou negativamente os componentes de produção da cultura da soja em todas as formas de adubação. sp contexto AfroBrasileira Afro Brasileira UNILAB, UNILAB , (UNILAB) Redenção Ceará Utilizouse Utilizou se repetições F1 F (F 100 50 bovino) CEa 03 0 3 0, 40 4, m1, m1 m 1 m-1) salinidade (UNILAB 10 5 m-1 m-

Abstract The aim of this study was to examine the impact of both organic and inorganic nitrogen fertilizers on the intensity and epidemiological components of Cercospora leaf spot across three different canopies of cotton plants, specifically the variety DP ACALA 90, under field conditions. Fertilizers used in the study included bovine manure, Jatropha curcas seedcake, poultry manure, and urea (the latter serving as a control). These were applied at 20 days after plant emergence and then during the flowering stage until the total nitrogen (N) dose reached 50, 100, 150, or 200 kg N per hectare. The incidence and severity of the disease were assessed starting at the reproductive stage B1 (the first visible flower bud) across the lower, middle, and upper canopies of four cotton plants, with six evaluations conducted over time. To calculate the initial inoculum (Y 0 ) and the disease progress rate (r), the Exponential, Gompertz, and Logistic models were employed based on temporal data. The study was designed as a randomized complete block with a 4x4 factorial arrangement (fertilizer type x dose), and mean comparisons were made using Tukey's test (p ≤ 0.05). It was found that disease intensity within each canopy level varied in response to the type of nitrogen source and the applied dose, with the severity of the disease (including the area under the disease progress curve) being particularly influenced. A significant interaction between the type of fertilizer and the dose regarding the intensity of Cercospora leaf spot was observed. The Exponential model most accurately depicted the disease's temporal progression. Notably, poultry manure and urea were the fertilizers that most adversely influenced the intensity and initial inoculum (Y 0 ) of Cercospora leaf spot across the various canopies of the cotton plants. The findings suggest that the use of organic fertilizers in cotton cultivation could represent a viable sustainable management strategy.

Resumen Antecedentes: La producción de leche vacuna en Ecuador se diferencia por regiones; en la Costa y de forma particular la cuenca baja del Guayas, tiende a decrecer, determinado por factores socioeconómicos y ecológicos, sin embargo, constituye una prioridad para el consumo familiar y local, con demanda del producto y sus derivados, representa ingresos diarios, asegura el pago de jornales al productor y genera diversificación en los sistemas de producción. Objetivo: Valorar la producción de leche en Ecuador y su proyección a partir de escenarios con énfasis en la cuenca baja del Guayas. Desarrollo: Se realizó una revisión bibliográfica para examinar la evidencia disponible sobre la producción de leche vacuna en Ecuador. Se constató un crecimiento, no obstante, la heterogeneidad de condiciones socioeconómicas y ecológicas existentes, determinaron respuestas productivas diferentes. Respecto a la cuenca baja del Guayas, reportaron los rendimientos más bajos, condicionados por factores climáticos y las características de los sistemas de producción, que determinan la búsqueda de alternativas que garanticen su sostenibilidad. Conclusiones: La producción de leche se diferenció por regiones, los mayores rendimientos se encontraron en la Sierra, seguido por la Amazonía y por último en la Costa, donde prevalecen los pastos naturales, existen desbalances estacionales y se prioriza la actividad agrícola. En correspondencia con lo planteado, la construcción de escenarios prospectivos constituye una alternativa para la toma de decisión en la relación a la sostenibilidad de la producción de leche en la región.

Abstract Background: The production of bovine milk in Ecuador differs by region; On the coast and particularly the lower Guayas basin, it tends to decrease, determined by socioeconomic and ecological factors, however, it constitutes a priority for family and local consumption, with demand for the product and its derivatives, it represents daily income, he assures. the payment of wages to the producer and generates diversification in production systems. Aim. Assess milk production in Ecuador and its projection based on scenarios with emphasis on the lower Guayas basin. Development: A bibliographic review was carried out to examine the available evidence on bovine milk production in Ecuador. Growth was noted, however, the heterogeneity of existing socioeconomic and ecological conditions will determine different productive responses. Regarding the lower Guayas basin, they reported the lowest yields, conditioned by climatic factors and the characteristics of the production systems, which determine the search for alternatives that guarantee their sustainability. Conclusions: Milk production differs by region, the highest yields were found in the Sierra, followed by the Amazon and finally on the Coast, where natural pastures prevail, there are seasonal imbalances and agricultural activity is prioritized. In correspondence with what was stated, the construction of prospective scenarios constitutes an alternative for decision-making in relation to the sustainability of milk production in the region.

Abstract The objective was to determine the incidence of fighting cattle farms in the Spanish dehesa, defining those that are in this territory, and quantifying the hectares they occupy and some productive aspects in order to verify the importance of the breeding of the fighting bull in the maintenance and conservation of its biodiversity. To this end, different documentary sources of livestock associations and the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food were consulted; and 304 surveys were carried out among fighting bull farmers in the Spanish provinces with dehesa. The area of the dehesa is 3’515,846 ha distributed in the Autonomous Communities of Andalusia, Extremadura, Castile and Leon, Castilla-La Mancha and Madrid, where there are 726 registered fighting cattle farms, although only 631 of them are active in the Stud Book of the Fighting Bovine Breed (2022), with a downward trend in recent years, and with an average census of 144 dams and 9 bulls, a low stocking rate. The estimated number of farms in the dehesa engaged exclusively in fighting bull farming is 581, with an average area of 534 ha and occupying 315,301 ha, representing 8.97 % of the total Spanish dehesa, although it would amount to 347,744 ha (9.89 %) considering the entire farm with the presence of other complementary activities. These farms are located in 358 municipalities, in which 72.61 % of the census is less than 5,000 inhabitants, which could help to fix the rural population.

Resumen El objetivo fue determinar la incidencia de las ganaderías de lidia en la dehesa española, precisando aquellas que se encuentran en este territorio, y cuantificando las hectáreas que ocupan, y algunos aspectos productivos, a fin de constatar la importancia que supone la crianza del toro de lidia en el mantenimiento y conservación de su biodiversidad. Para ello se consultaron diferentes fuentes documentales de asociaciones ganaderas y el Ministerio de Agricultura Pesca y Alimentación; y se realizaron 304 encuestas a los ganaderos de bovino de lidia de las provincias españolas con dehesa. La superficie de la dehesa es de 3’515,846 ha repartidas en las Comunidades Autónomas de Andalucía, Extremadura, Castilla y León, Castilla-La Mancha y Madrid, donde existen registradas 726 ganaderías de lidia, aunque solo 631 de ellas están activas en el Libro Genealógico de la Raza Bovina de Lidia (2022), siendo su tendencia descendente en los últimos años, y con un censo medio de 144 reproductoras y 9 sementales, una baja carga animal. El número estimado de fincas en la dehesa dedicadas exclusivamente a la ganadería de lidia es 581, presentan una superficie media de 534 ha y ocupan 315,301 ha, suponiendo el 8.97 % del total de la dehesa española, aunque ascendería a 347,744 ha (9.89 %) considerando la totalidad de finca con la presencia de otras actividades complementarias. Estas fincas están localizadas en 358 términos municipales, en los que el 72.61 % del censo es menor de 5,000 habitantes, lo que podría ayudar a la fijación de población rural.

ABSTRACT Fifteen glands from clinically healthy bovine calves were evaluated using geometric morphometry methods. The right and left lobes were studied separately, comparing their differences in size and shape. The results reflected the presence of fluctuating asymmetry for the shape; that is, a deviation from the symmetry between lobes expected for this bilateral structure. No directional asymmetry was found. It is assumed that the degree of asymmetry is completely physiological; That is, fluctuating asymmetry, commonly used as a measure of developmental instability, would not represent in the case studied an inability of the gland to maintain its normal physiology.

RESUMEN Se evaluaron 15 glándulas de terneros, clínicamente sanos, mediante métodos de morfometría geométrica. Se estudiaron por separado los lóbulos derecho e izquierdo, comparando sus diferencias en tamaño y forma. Los resultados reflejaron la presencia de asimetría fluctuante para la forma; es decir, una desviación de la simetría entre lóbulos esperada para esta estructura bilateral. No se encontró asimetría direccional. Se asume que el grado de asimetría resulta totalmente fisiológica; o sea, que la asimetría fluctuante, comúnmente usada como medida de la inestabilidad del desarrollo, no representaría en el caso estudiado una incapacidad de la glándula para mantener su normal fisiología.

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of Insulin-Transferrin-Selenium (ITS) supplementation in embryo culture on the blastocyst rate and embryo quality. The bovine zygotes obtained by in vitro maturation (MIV) and fertilization (IVF) were transferred to Evolve medium in 4 groups (T1: Without ITS supplement; T2: ITS the first 48 h of culture (CIV1): T3: ITS after day 2 of culture (CIV2), T4: ITS during all culture time (CIV1+CIV2). All procedures were performed at 38.5 °C,5%CO2and90%relativehumidity. The cleavage and blastocyst rates were determined at 48 h and day 8 of culture. The total cell number and the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the expanded blastocysts were determined by staining the nucleus with Hoechst and the oxidation of the fluorescent probe dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (H2DCFDA). The T4 cultured embryos presented the highest rate of blastocysts (32.6%) and total cell number (145.6) compared to the control group without STI (26.2% and 98.6, respectively; p<0.05). Likewise, the production of ROS in T4 blastocysts was lower (p<0.05) than that obtained in the other study groups. The results show that the addition of the ITS supplement throughout the embryo culture time has beneficial effects on the percentage of blastocysts and embryo quality, assessed by the number of total cells and the production of ROS.

RESUMEN El estudio tuvo como objetivo evaluar el efecto del suplemento Insulina-Transferrina-Selenio (ITS) en el cultivo embrionario sobre la tasa de blastocistos y calidad embrionaria. Los cigotos de bovino obtenidos por maduración (MIV) y fertilización in vitro (FIV) fueron transferidos a medio Evolve en 4 grupos (T1: Sin suplemento ITS; T2: ITS las primeras 48 h de cultivo (CIV1): T3: ITS después del día 2 de cultivo (CIV2), T4: ITS todo el tiempo de cultivo (CIV1 + CIV2). Todos los procedimientos se realizaron a 38.5 °C, 5% de CO2 y 90% de humedad relativa. Las tasas de clivaje y de blastocistos se determinaron a las 48 h y día 8 de cultivo, respectivamente. El número de células totales y la producción de especies reactivas de oxígeno (EROs) en los blastocistos expandidos fueron determinados por tinción del núcleo con Hoechst y la oxidación de la sonda fluorescente diacetato diclorodihidrofluoresceína (H2DCFDA). Los embriones cultivados de T4 presentaron la mayor tasa de blastocistos (32.6%) y número de células totales (145.6) comparada al grupo control sin ITS (26.2% y 98.6, respectivamente; p<0.05). Asimismo, la producción de EROs en los blastocistos de T4 fue menor (p<0.05) que la obtenida en los demás grupos de estudio. Los resultados demuestran que la adición del suplemento ITS durante todo el tiempo de cultivo embrionario tiene efectos benéficos sobre el porcentaje de blastocistos y calidad embrionaria, valorada por el número de células totales y la producción de EROs.

ABSTRACT This experiment aimed to assess the effect of fetal calf serum (FCS) added to culture medium on day 5 to 7 after in vitro fertilization on production and subsequent cryotolerance of blastocysts from Ecuadorian Creole heifers. Immature cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were collected by ovum pick-up (OPU) from 10 Creole heifers and from ovaries collected at abattoir in eight collection sessions. COCs were subjected to in vitro maturation (IVM), fertilization (IVF), and culture (IVC). On day 1 after IVF, presumptive embryos from each oocyte source (OPU [O] and Abattoir [A]) were allocated randomly in two groups according to whether 2.5% (v/v) FCS was added to culture medium on day 5 after IVF: 1) O-FCS+, 2) O-FCS-, 3) A-FCS+, and 4) A-FCS-. On day 7 after IVF, high quality embryos were vitrified. Cryotolerance of vitrified-warmed embryos was assessed according to blastocele re-expansion at 2 h and subsequent re-expansion and hatching at 24 and 48 h of re-incubation. Blastocysts rate on day 7 did not differ between oocyte source and FCS group. After vitrification/warming process, addition of FCS affected the re-expansion rate only at 2 h, irrespective of the oocyte source (p<0.05). Likewise, blastocysts hatching rate at 48 h of incubation was drastically affected only in OPU derived oocyte (p<0.01). Supplementation of FCS on day 5 after IVF did not improve blastocyst production and adversely affected the cryotolerance of in vitro bovine embryos derived from creole heifers raised on Ecuadorian Andean highlands.

RESUMEN El estudio tuvo como objetivo evaluar el efecto del suero fetal bovino (FCS) agregado al medio de cultivo los días 5 a 7 después de la fertilización in vitro sobre la producción y posterior criotolerancia de blastocistos de vaquillonas criollas ecuatorianas. Se recolectaron complejos cúmulo-ovocitos (COCs) inmaduros mediante aspiración intravaginal guiada por ultrasonido (OPU) de 10 vaquillonas criollas y de ovarios de matadero en ocho sesiones. Los COCs se sometieron a maduración in vitro (MIV), fecundación (FIV) y cultivo (IVC). El día 1 después de la FIV, los presuntos embriones de cada fuente de ovocitos (OPU [O] y Matadero [A]) se asignaron aleatoriamente en dos grupos según si se añadió FCS al 2.5% (v/v) al medio de cultivo el día 5 después de la FIV: 1) O-FCS+, 2) O-FCS-, 3) A-FCS+ y 4) A-FCS-. El día 7 después de la FIV se vitrificaron embriones de alta calidad. La criotolerancia de los embriones vitrificados-calentados se evaluó según la reexpansión del blastocele a las 2 h y la posterior reexpansión y eclosión a las 24 y 48 h de incubación. La tasa de blastocistos el día 7 no difirió entre la fuente de ovocitos y el grupo FCS. Después del proceso de vitrificación/ calentamiento, la adición de FCS solo afectó la tasa de reexpansión a las 2 h, independientemente de la fuente de ovocitos (p<0.05). Asimismo, la tasa de eclosión de los blastocistos a las 48 h de incubación se vio drásticamente afectada únicamente en los ovocitos derivados de OPU (p<0.01). En conclusión, la suplementación de FCS el día 5 después de la FIV no mejoró la producción de blastocistos y afectó negativamente la criotolerancia de embriones bovinos in vitro derivados de vaquillonas criollas criadas en los Andes ecuatorianos.

Abstract 17. The study aimed to evaluate the Fertilization Rate of four independent in vitro treatments of bovine oocytes with Sexed (SX) and Conventional (Conv) semen, capacitated (B.O and Percoll) using the Swim-Up technique. Cleavage was assessed at 48 hours post-fertilization and on the seventh day of embryonic development. The results showed a cleavage percentage of 59.4% in T1 (Conv. Percoll), 60% in T2 (Conv. B.O), 75% in T3 (SX. Percoll), and 46.6% in T4 (SX. B.O), with a statistically significant difference (p>0.05) observed specifically between T3 and T4. The embryo development rate on the seventh day was 34.4% in T1, 20% in T2, 15% in T3, and 10.51% in T4. In this case, a statistically significant difference was found in the use of conventional medium with Percoll compared to SX B.O medium (p<0.05) (T1 and T4, respectively). The results also showed similar production of morula and early blastocysts and protruded embryos among the four treatments, demonstrating the feasibility of in vitro fertilization (IVF) technique for producing bovine embryos. In conclusion, the preliminary evaluation highlights the significant influence of the sexing method and treatment on semen quality and embryonic development in animal reproduction programs. Although Sexed semen with Percoll shows potential to improve cleavage rates, conventional semen, especially in T1 treatment (Conv. Percoll), exhibits superiority in individual motility and concentration. These findings provide crucial insights for optimizing reproductive programs.

Resumen 13. El objetivo del presente estudio fue evaluar la Tasa de Fecundación in vitro de ovocitos bovinos con semen sexado (SX) y convencional (Conv.) capacitados (B.O y Percoll) con la técnica Swim-Up. Se evaluó el clivaje a las 48 horas post fecundación y al séptimo día del desarrollo embrionario. Los resultados mostraron un porcentaje de clivaje del 59,4% en el T1 (Conv. Percoll), 60% en el T2 (Conv. B.O), 75% en el T3 (SX. Percoll) y 46,6% en el T4 (SX. B.O), mostrando diferencia estadística entre T3 y T4 (p>0,05). La tasa de desarrollo del embrión al séptimo día fue 34,4% T1, 20% en T2, 15% en T3 y 10,51% en T4; en este caso, se encontró diferencia estadísticamente significativa en el uso del medio convencional más Percoll en comparación con el medio de SX B.O (p<0,05) (T1 y T4, respectivamente). Los resultados también mostraron una producción similar de mórulas y blastocitos tempranos y protruidos entre los cuatro tratamientos, y demuestran la viabilidad del desarrollo e implementación de la técnica de fertilización in vitro (FIV) para producir embriones bovinos. Concluyendo la evaluación preliminar, destaca la significativa influencia del método de sexado y del tratamiento en la calidad del semen y desarrollo embrionario en programas de reproducción animal. Aunque el semen sexado con Percoll muestra potencial para mejorar tasas de clivaje, el semen convencional, especialmente en el tratamiento T1 (Conv. Percoll), exhibe una superioridad en motilidad individual y concentración. Estos resultados informan decisiones cruciales para optimizar programas reproductivos.