Resumen Introducción. En Ecuador el cultivo de fresa tiene una relevancia tanto económica como social y ha presentado un crecimiento significativo en los últimos años. Sin embargo, es susceptible a diferentes tipos de plagas y patógenos. Objetivo. Evaluar el efecto de Bacillus megaterium en el cultivo de fresa en variables relacionadas con la sanidad y el rendimiento agronómico. Materiales y métodos. El ensayo de campo se llevó a cabo en una plantación de fresa de la variedad Albion, de cuatro meses de edad desde la primera cosecha, en la provincia de Pichincha, Ecuador. Se utilizaron las cepas IB6 y AB4 de Bacillus megaterium a concentraciones de 1 × 109 y 5 × 108 UFC/L, comparadas con un testigo químico de captan (3 g/L) y clorotalonil (2 mL/L) como fungicidas, y abamectina (0,75 mL/L) y lambdacialotrina (0,3 mL/L) como insecticidas en rotación. Se empleó un diseño de parcela dividida con evaluaciones en dos tiempos, entre abril y junio de 2023; se evaluó la incidencia y el índice de severidad de Botrytis cinerea, peso fresco, rendimiento, diámetros y grados Brix de frutos. Resultados. No hubo interacción entre los factores tratamientos y tiempo; los tiempos evaluados no mostraron diferencia estadística. El factor de tratamientos presentó diferencia estadística para variables de sanidad e interés agronómico. La incidencia de B. cinerea en tratamientos biológicos fue la menor, con 13 % en promedio. El control de ácaros fue superior a 72,71 % con la cepa IB6 a una concentración alta; este mismo tratamiento evidenció incrementos significativos en el peso fresco de frutos (13,2 %), los diámetros (14 %) y la concentración de sólidos solubles (23 %), superiores al testigo. Conclusión. El uso de Bacillus megaterium redujo la incidencia de Botrytis cinerea, fue efectivo contra ácaros y trips, y mejoró las variables de peso fresco, diámetros y grados Brix de frutos.

Abstract Introduction. In Ecuador, strawberry cultivation holds significant economic and social importance, having witnessed substantial growth in recent years. However, this sector faces challenges from various pests and diseases. Objective. To evaluate the effect of Bacillus megaterium on strawberry crop variables related to plant health and agronomic yield. Materials and methods. Field trial was conducted on an Albion strawberry plantation, four months after the first harvest, in Pichincha province, Ecuador. IB6 and AB4 strains of Bacillus megaterium were used at concentrations of 1 × 109 and 5 × 108 CFU/L. These were compared with a chemical control using captan (3 g/L) and chlorothalonil (2 mL/L) as fungicides, and abamectin (0.75 mL/L) and lambdacyhalothrin (0.3 mL/L) as insecticides in rotation. A split-plot design was applied with evaluations conducted at two intervals between April and June 2023. Variables measured included Botrytis cinerea incidence and severity index, fresh weight, yield, diameters, and Brix degrees of fruits. Results. There was no interaction between the treatment and time factors; the evaluated times showed no statistical differences. The treatment factor showed statistical differences for health and agronomic interest variables. The incidence of B. cinerea in the biological treatments was the lowest, with an average of 13 %. Mite control was greater than 72.71 % with the IB6 strain at a high concentration. This same treatment showed significant increases in the fresh weight of fruits (13.2 %), diameters (14 %), and soluble solids concentration (23 %), higher than the control. Conclusion. The use of Bacillus megaterium reduced the incidence of Botrytis cinerea, provided effective control against mites and thrips, and improved fresh weight, diameters and Brix degrees of fruits.

Resumen Introducción. El cultivo de palto es susceptible al estrés hídrico durante la etapa de floración y el crecimiento inicial de los frutos. Este estrés puede ocasionar la caída prematura de los frutos y acentuar la alternancia en la producción. Objetivo. Determinar el índice de estrés hídrico del cultivo (IEHC) en tres cultivares de palto (Hass, Fuerte y Zutano) bajo diferentes condiciones de riego, mediante el empleo de termografía infrarroja. Materiales y métodos. El estudio se realizó en la temporada de otoño del 2023, en la Estación Experimental Agraria Canaán, Ayacucho, Perú. Se seleccionaron 170 árboles de palto de cuatro años en fase reproductiva. Se llevaron a cabo cinco evaluaciones bajo diferentes condiciones de riego, donde se recopiló información después de 14 y 7 días sin riego (SR-14d y SR-7d) y 12, 2 y 1 hora posterior al riego (DR-12h, DR-2h y DR-1h, respectivamente). Se registró la temperatura de las hojas (Th), la conductancia estomática (gs), la humedad del suelo (θ) y el IEHC. Resultados. Los tres cultivares evaluados en este estudio presentaron diferencias significativas de la Th según manejo del riego. Estas variaciones, influenciadas por la temperatura y humedad ambiental, establecieron umbrales de estrés que definieron el IEHC en un rango de 0,34 a 0,96. Al relacionar el IEHC con la gs y θ se obtuvieron valores de R2 = 0,51 y R2 = 0,61, respectivamente. El cultivar Zutano mostró el valor más alto de IEHC en períodos prolongados de restricción de riego y tuvo una baja capacidad para reducir estos valores tras la rehidratación, a diferencia de los otros cultivares. Conclusiones. Se demostró que la termografía infrarroja puede medir eficazmente el IEHC en cultivares de palto, con variaciones significativas observadas en la Th, según la condición de riego. Además, el cultivar Zutano fue el que presentó la menor capacidad de recuperación ante el estrés hídrico.

Abstract Introduction. Avocado cultivation is susceptible to water stress during the flowering stage and initial fruit growth. This stress can cause premature fruit drop and accentuate the alternation in production. Objective. To determine the crop water stress index (CWSI) in three avocado cultivars (Hass, Fuerte, and Zutano) under different irrigation conditions using infrared thermography. Materials and methods. The study was conducted in the autumn of 2023, at the Estación Experimental Agraria Canaán, Ayacucho, Peru. A total of 170 four-year-old avocado trees in the reproductive phase were selected. Five evaluations were carried out under different irrigation conditions, where data was collected after 14 and 7 days without irrigation (WI-14d and WI-7d) and at 12, 2, and 1 hour post-irrigation (AI-12h, AI-2h, and AI-1h, respectively). Leaf temperature (Th), stomatal conductance (gs), soil moisture (θ), and CWSI were recorded. Results. The three evaluated cultivars showed significant differences in Th depending on the irrigation management. These variations, influenced by ambient temperature and humidity, established stress thresholds that defined the CWSI within a range of 0.34 to 0.96. By correlating the CWSI with gs and θ, values of R2 = 0,51 y R2 = 0,61 were obtained, respectively. The Zutano cultivar exhibited the highest CWSI values during prolonged water restriction periods and showed a limited ability to reduce these values after rehydration, differing from the other cultivars. Conclusions. Infrared thermography proved to be an effective too for measuring the CWSI in avocado cultivars, reveling significant variations in Th based on irrigation conditions. Adicionally, the Zutano cultivar was the lest resilient to water stress.

Resumen Introducción. El girasol silvestre o polocote (Helianthus annuus L.) es la principal maleza anual en el cultivo de sorgo y maíz en el norte de Tamaulipas, México. Existe escasa información sobre esta especie para realizar bioensayos con herbicidas. Objetivo. Establecer una metodología para la obtención de plántulas de polocote para bioensayos con herbicidas, desde la semilla hasta la multiplicación en vivero. Materiales y métodos. La semilla de polocote se recolectó en enero del año 2023, en el Campo Experimental del Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Forestales, Agrícolas y Pecuarias (INIFAP), en Río Bravo, Tamaulipas. Después, se ejecutó la prueba de germinación inicial sobre papel filtro y viabilidad con tetrazolio. Se comprobó latencia por baja germinación (12 %) y alta viabilidad (86 %). Se usaron doce tratamientos para romper la latencia, mediante etanol (70 %) y agua (75, 25). Como control se utilizó solamente agua. Los tratamientos se aplicaron a temperaturas de 5 °C y 20 °C, sobre papel filtro, algodón y peat moss, en cajas Petri durante siete días. Posteriormente, se mantuvieron a una temperatura de ±25 °C. Con los resultados anteriores, se estableció la fase de vivero con cuatro esquemas con trasplante de semilla pregerminada y dos con siembra directa. Resultados. El mejor tratamiento para romper latencia fue inmersión en agua a 5 °C por siete días sobre algodón, con una germinación del 73 %. Los mejores métodos para obtener plantas fueron charolas con plántulas y trasplante en macetas negras con 75 % y 50 % de supervivencia, respectivamente. La sombra inhibió el crecimiento de las plantas. La siembra directa, con o sin prehidratación de la semilla, fue desfavorable para la germinación y emergencia. Conclusión. La obtención de plántulas de girasol silvestre fue superior cuando la semilla se sometió a pretratamiento hídrico y trasplante posterior a charolas o a bolsas.

Abstract Introduction. The wild sunflower or polocote (Helianthus annuus L.) is the main annual weed in the cultivation of sorghum and corn in northern Tamaulipas, Mexico. To date, there is little information about this species to carry out bioassays with herbicides. Objective. Establish a methodology for obtaining polocote seedlings for bioassays with herbicides, from seed to multiplication in the nursery. Materials and methods. The polocote seed was collected in January 2023, within the National Institute of Forestry, Agriculture and Livestock Research (INIFAP) Experimental Field, in Río Bravo, Tamaulipas. Afterwards, the initial germination test was carried out on filter paper and viability with tetrazolium. Latency was confirmed due to low germination (12 %) and high viability (86 %). Twelve treatments were used to break dormancy using ethanol (70 %) and water (75, 25). As a control only water were used. The treatments were applied at temperatures of 5 °C and 20 °C, on filter paper, cotton, and peat moss in Petri dishes for seven days. Subsequently, they were kept at a temperature of ±25 °C. With the previous results, the nursery phase was established with four schemes with pre-germinated seed transplantation and two with direct sowing. Results. The best treatment to break dormancy was immersion in water at 5 °C for seven days on cotton, with 73 % germination. The best methods to obtain plants were trays with seedlings and transplanting into black open-air pots, with 75 % and 50 % survival, respectively. Shade inhibited plant growth. Direct sowing, with or without seed prehydration, was unfavorable for germination and emergence. Conclusion. Obtaining wild sunflower seedlings was higher when the seed was subjected to water pre-treatment and subsequent transplanting into trays or open-air bags.

RESUMO O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar as características produtivas e a eficiência do uso da terra e da água em monocultivo e consórcio de rúcula com jambu sob regimes hídricos em dois ciclos de cultivo em região semiárida do Ceará. O delineamento experimental foi em blocos casualizados, em esquema de parcelas subdivididas, com 20 tratamentos e quatro repetições. As parcelas foram as irrigações, com 50, 75, 100, 125 e 150% de ETc. As subparcelas foram os sistemas consorciado e solteiro. Em cada ciclo foram avaliadas as características de crescimento das plantas e a eficiência do uso da água e da terra. Os maiores valores foram obtidos para número de folhas, altura, e massa fresca e seca das partes aéreas e raízes das plantas de rúcula quando consorciadas. Os melhores resultados para as variáveis de crescimento do jambu foram obtidos para as plantas cultivadas em monocultivo. Os valores de produtividade foram maiores no sistema solteiro; entretanto, os valores médios de eficiência do uso da terra no sistema consorciado foram de 1,23 e 1,28 em 2018 e 2019, respectivamente. Os melhores resultados foram obtidos com 75% ETc (DI75) para rúcula e irrigação total com 100% ETc (TI100) e irrigação em excesso com 125% ETc (EI125) para jambu. A eficiência do uso da água foi maior no sistema solteiro. Os índices de produtividade obtidos com o sistema consorciado rúcula-jambu e DI75 confirmam a maior eficiência biológica. Com base no exposto, conclui-se que rúcula e jambu são promissores para o consórcio em condições semiáridas.

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to evaluate the production characteristics and the efficiency of land and water use in monoculture and intercropping of arugula with jambu under water regimes in two crop cycles in the semi-arid region of Ceará, Brazil. The experimental design was randomized blocks, in a split-plot scheme, with 20 treatments and four replicates. The plots were irrigation, corresponding to 50, 75, 100, 125 and 150% of ETc. The subplots were the intercropping and single systems. In each cycle, the growth characteristics of the plants and the efficiency of water and land use were evaluated. The highest values were obtained for number of leaves, height, and fresh and dry mass of aerial parts and roots of arugula plants when intercropped. The best results for the growth variables of jambu were obtained for plants grown in monoculture. The productivity values were higher in the single-cropping system; however, the average land use efficiency values in the intercropped system were 1.23 and 1.28 in 2018 and 2019, respectively. The best results were obtained with 75% ETc (DI75) for arugula and full irrigation with 100% ETc (TI100) and excess irrigation with 125% ETc (EI125) for jambu. Water use efficiency was higher in the single system. The productivity indices obtained with the arugula-jambu intercropped system and DI75 confirm the higher biological efficiency. Based on the above, it is concluded that arugula and jambu are promising for intercropping under semi-arid conditions.

RESUMO O uso de águas com alta concentração de sais no cultivo do cajueiro se faz necessário na região semiárida do Nordeste brasileiro, devido à escassez hídrica e à má distribuição das chuvas. O excesso de sais na água é um fator limitante para a produção agrícola. Nesse cenário, estratégias têm sido empregadas para mitigar os efeitos nocivos do estresse salino sobre as plantas, destacando-se o uso do ácido salicílico. Com isso, o objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar os efeitos da aplicação foliar de ácido salicílico sobre os aspectos fisiológicos e crescimento do cajueiro anão precoce cultivado sob estresse salino na fase de pré-floração. O experimento foi conduzido em casa de vegetação utilizando o delineamento em blocos casualizados, em arranjo fatorial 5 × 4, com cinco níveis de condutividade elétrica da água de irrigação (CEa - 0,4; 1,2; 2,0; 2,8 e 3,6 dS m-1) e quatro concentrações de ácido salicílico - AS (0, 1, 2 e 3 mM), com três repetições. O ácido salicílico, aplicado na concentração de 1 mM, atenuou os efeitos do estresse salino na morfofisiologia do cajueiro durante a fase de pré-floração, especialmente em plantas irrigadas com CEa de até 1,2 dS m-1. Por outro lado, a concentração de 3 mM AS elevou os efeitos negativos do estresse salino no teor relativo de água, extravasamento de eletrólitos, pigmentos fotossintéticos, trocas gasosas e crescimento de cajueiro anão precoce, particularmente em CEa de 3,6 dS m-1.

ABSTRACT The use of water with high concentration of salts in cashew cultivation is a necessity in the semi-arid region of Northeast Brazil, due to water scarcity and poor rainfall distribution. Excess salts in water are a limiting factor for agricultural production. In this scenario, strategies have been employed to mitigate the harmful effects of salt stress on plants, and the use of salicylic acid stands out. With this, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of foliar application of salicylic acid on the physiology and growth of early dwarf cashew grown under salt stress in the pre-flowering stage. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse using a randomized block design, in a 5 × 4 factorial arrangement, with five levels of electrical conductivity of irrigation water (ECw - 0.4, 1.2, 2.0, 2.8, and 3.6 dS m-1) and four concentrations of salicylic acid (SA - 0, 1, 2, and 3 mM), with three replicates. Salicylic acid, applied at a concentration of 1 mM, mitigated the negative impacts of salt stress on the morphophysiology of cashew during the pre-flowering phase, especially in plants irrigated with ECw of up to 1.2 dS m-1. On the other hand, the concentration of 3 mM SA exacerbated the effects of salt stress on the relative water content, electrolyte leakage, photosynthetic pigments, gas exchange, and growth of early dwarf cashew, particularly at ECw of 3.6 dS m-1.

RESUMO O conforto térmico adequado para o cultivo de plantas em ambientes protegidos está intrinsecamente ligado às propriedades das coberturas translúcidas. Este estudo investigou a influência de três tipos de filmes plásticos (difusor, transparente e leitoso) em três estufas agrícolas em Fortaleza, CE. O objetivo foi analisar as condições de temperatura e umidade relativa do ar, buscando recomendações para otimizar o desempenho das estufas. Dez estações de monitoramento foram distribuídas, três para cada cobertura plástica e uma externa; as leituras foram coletadas a 2 m de altura sendo equipadas com sensores de temperatura e umidade relativa do ar (SHT31). A coleta de dados ocorreu de 11 a 27 de julho de 2023, com leituras a cada 5 min (totalizando 12 leituras por hora), tratadas posteriormente por regressão linear. Diferenças significativas nas madrugadas (1 e 5%) entre as coberturas para temperatura e umidade relativa do ar foram observadas. Comparando os filmes, difusor × transparente e difusor × leitoso mostraram diferenças a 5 e 1%, respectivamente, enquanto transparente x leitoso não apresentaram diferenças. Durante o período das 12 horas, o filme difusor exibiu menores variações de temperatura. Conclui-se que a cobertura difusora proporcionou as menores temperaturas e menores variações ao longo do dia, sendo estatisticamente diferente dos filmes leitoso e transparente nos horários mais quentes. Esses resultados oferecem percepções cruciais para otimizar as condições em estufas agrícolas, contribuindo para práticas eficientes de cultivo protegido.

ABSTRACT Adequate thermal comfort for plant growth in protected environments is associated with properties of translucent coverings. This study investigated the influence of three types of plastic films (diffuser, transparent, and milky) at three agricultural greenhouses in Fortaleza city, CE, Brazil. The objective of this study was to analyze air temperature and relative air humidity conditions, seeking recommendations to optimize plant growth performance in greenhouses. Ten monitoring stations were distributed, three for each plastic covering and one external; readings were taken 2 m above the ground level, using temperature and relative air humidity sensors (SHT31). Data were collected from July 11 to July 27, 2023, with readings every 5 min (totaling 12 readings per hour) and subsequently processed through linear regression. The tested coverings resulted in different temperature and relative air humidity during early morning hours (1 and 5%). The comparison between diffuser and transparent, and diffuser and milky films showed differences at 5 and 1%, respectively, while transparent and milky films did not show differences. The diffuser film exhibited lower temperature variations throughout a 12-hour period. The diffuser covering provided the lowest temperatures and smaller variations throughout the day, which was significantly different from milky and transparent films during warmer hours. These results provide valuable information for optimizing conditions in agricultural greenhouses, contributing to sustainable and efficient practices in protected cultivation.

Abstract The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound effect on food security worldwide. Colombian farmers were adversely affected by prolonged periods of lockdown, disruptions in the agricultural supply chain, increased poverty levels, and heightened socioeconomic uncertainty. The objective of this study is to evaluate the perceptions of pea producers with regard to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. To this end, and ex-ante (2019) and ex-post (2020-2022) diagnostic analysis was conducted in the south of Nariño. We carried out semi-structured interviews with 35 farmers, four key informants, and three focus groups. A sentiment analysis (text mining) was conducted to process sensitive information on environmental, economic, and intrinsic aspects of the productive system. The results revealed that participants maintained constant levels of happiness and confidence across the two-time periods. However, in the period subsequent to the pandemic, higher levels of anger and sadness were reported, attributed to effects of the pandemic itself and the inherent challenges associated with pea cultivation. The implementation of confinement measures resulted in an increase in feelings of uncertainty and sadness, in addition too the emergence of challenges in fieldwork context. Moreover, the increased production costs were attributed to the greater demand for agricultural inputs and labour in 2020. However, in 2022, the increased the price paid per kilogram of pea grains helped mitigate the adverse impact of the pandemic. The study concludes that the econ economic uncertainty introduced by the COVID-19 pandemic affected crop profitability. Nevertheless, small-scale farmers exhibited remarkable resilience and adaptability, allowing them to persist in growing and selling their pea harvest.

Resumen La pandemia de COVID-19 ha tenido un impacto significativo en la seguridad alimentaria en todo el mundo. El agricultor colombiano se vio afectado por bloqueos prolongados, interrupciones en la cadena de suministro agrícola, mayores niveles de pobreza y una mayor incertidumbre socioeconómica. Este estudio tiene como objetivo evaluar la percepción de los productores de arveja sobre el COVID-19, realiza un diagnóstico ex ante (2019) y ex post (2020-2022) en el sur de Nariño. Se realizaron entrevistas semiestructuradas a 35 agricultores, 4 informantes clave y 3 grupos focales. A través de un análisis de sentimiento (Text Mining) se procesó información sensible sobre aspectos ambientales, económicos e intrínsecos del sistema productivo. Los resultados revelaron que los participantes mantuvieron niveles constantes de felicidad y confianza durante dos períodos de tiempo. Sin embargo, en el período posterior a la COVID-19, se informaron niveles más altos de ira y tristeza, atribuidos a los efectos de la pandemia y los desafíos inherentes asociados con el cultivo de arvejas o guisantes. Las medidas de confinamiento intensificaron los sentimientos de incertidumbre y tristeza, además de desafíos en el trabajo de campo. Asimismo, atribuyeron el aumento de los costos de producción a la mayor demanda de insumos agrícolas y mano de obra en 2020. Sin embargo, en 2022, el aumento del precio pagado por kilogramo de granos de arvejas ayudó a mitigar el impacto adverso de la pandemia. El estudio concluye que la COVID-19 introdujo incertidumbre económica en la región y, en consecuencia, afectó la rentabilidad de los cultivos. Sin embargo, los pequeños agricultores mostraron una notable resiliencia y adaptabilidad, lo que les permitió persistir en el cultivo y venta de su cosecha de guisantes.

Abstract Bananas are the most widely consumed tropical fruit worldwide. Its production is an important source of economic income in Latin American and Caribbean countries. Recently, banana crops have been affected by the attack of overly aggressive pathogens such as Fusarium oxysporum and Mycosphaerella fijiensis. Chemical control is a widely used strategy, which has led to the excessive use of agrochemicals in banana production. There is great concern worldwide about the state of banana crops, which makes environmentally friendly alternatives necessary to cope with the actual threats. Ecuador is one of the main banana producers in the world, so it is essential to innovate production systems by implementing biologically sustainable alternatives to minimize environmental impacts and warranty productivity. This review aims to consolidate key information on banana-associated fungi, including isolation and introduction techniques of endophytic fungi. Finally, relevant research on biotechnological strategies based on endophytic and mycorrhizal fungi to improve banana production is included. We expect this review will provide insights into experimental investigations in the design of fungal inoculants.

Resumen El banano es la fruta tropical de mayor consumo mundial. Su producción es un importante ingreso económico en países de Latinoamérica y el Caribe. Recientemente, el cultivo de banano se ha visto afectado por el ataque de patógenos muy agresivos como Fusarium oxysporum y Mycosphaerella fijiensis. El control químico es una estrategia ampliamente utilizada, que ha llevado al uso excesivo de agroquímicos en la producción bananera. Existe una gran preocupación mundial por el estado de los cultivos de banano, siendo necesario encontrar alternativas amigables con el medio ambiente. Ecuador es uno de los principales productores de banano en el mundo, por lo que es fundamental innovar el sistema de producción mediante la implementación de alternativas biológicamente sostenibles para minimizar el impacto ambiental y garantizar la productividad. La presente revisión pretende consolidar información clave sobre los hongos asociados al banano, incluyendo técnicas de aislamiento e introducción de endófitos. Finalmente, se incluyen investigaciones relevantes sobre estrategias biotecnológicas basadas en hongos endofíticos y micorrízicos para mejorar la producción de banano. Nuestro objetivo es que esta revisión proporcione información para la investigación experimental en el diseño de inoculantes fúngicos.

Abstract Proper nutritional management is crucial for the development and production of cannabinoids in the cultivation of Cannabis sativa var. Cherry Oregon. The objective of this research was to evaluate the effect of five concentrations of Steiner nutrient solution on the phenology of medicinal hemp, and to determine the optimal dosage of the nutrient solution for cannabinoid content (cannabidiol [CBD] and tetrahydrocannabinol [THC]). Research was conducted at the Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Agropecuarias [INIAP], Estación Experimental Santa Catalina [EESC], in Ecuador, under greenhouse conditions. Five concentrations of Steiner nutrient solution (50, 75, 100, 125 and 150%). Agronomic variables such as plant height, diameter at collar height, yield, and cannabinoid content in flowers were evaluated. Significant effects (p > 0,05) were used. Agronomic variables such as plant height, diameter at neck height, yield, and cannabinoid content in flowers were evaluated. Significant effects (p > 0.05) were observed in plant height and diameter at neck height. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) remained at concentrations lower than 1%. Concentrations at 75% and 100% of the nutrient solution showed higher levels of cannabidiol (CBD) with 15,3% and 15,15%, respectively. The nutrient solution at 125% and 100% concentrations promoted greater growth in plant height and diameter. The 125% concentration also produced the highest dry biomass yield with 810 g m-2 or 8,1 t ha-1, surpassing the other concentrations. It is concluded that the optimal concentration of Steiner solution was 125% for accumulation of dry biomass, and 75 and 100% for cannabinoid production in flowers (CBD), complying with current regulations (< 1% THC).

Resumen El adecuado manejo nutricional es crucial para el desarrollo y producción de cannabinoides en el cultivo de Cannabis sativa var. Cherry Oregon. Esta investigación tuvo por objetivo evaluar el efecto de cinco concentraciones de solución nutritiva Steiner en la fenología del cáñamo medicinal, y determinar la dosis óptima de la solución nutritiva para el contenido de cannabinoides (cannabidiol [CBD] y tetrahidrocannabinol [THC]). La investigación fue realizada en el Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Agropecuarias [INIAP], Estación Experimental Santa Catalina [EESC], en Ecuador, en condiciones de invernadero. Se emplearon cinco concentraciones de solución nutritiva de Steiner (50, 75, 100, 125 y 150%). Se evaluaron variables agronómicas como altura de planta, diámetro a la altura del cuello, rendimiento y contenido de cannabinoides en las flores. Se observó efecto significativo (p > 0,05) en altura de planta y diámetro del cuello. El THC se mantuvo < 1%. Concentraciones al 75% y 100% de la solución nutritiva mostraron niveles superiores de CBD con 15,3 y 15,15%, respectivamente. La solución nutritiva al 125 y 100% promovieron un mayor crecimiento en altura y diámetro a la altura del cuello. La concentración al 125% también produjo mayor rendimiento de biomasa seca con 810 g m-2 o 8,10 t ha-1, superando al resto de concentraciones. Se concluye que la concentración óptima de solución Steiner fue de 125% para acumulación de biomasa seca, y del 75 y 100% para la producción de cannabinoides en flores (CBD), cumpliendo con las regulaciones vigentes (< 1% de THC).

Abstract (Introduction): The current cultivation of trees is insufficient to cover the national demand for wood, in this way small producers become an alternative solution to this situation, since despite having small areas, in the country there are abundant farms with these conditions; However, the current forest management scheme does not meet adequate standards for the incorporation of these small producers. (Objective): To present an adaptive forest management scheme (AFMS) to the needs of the small farmer, in addition, to demonstrate the institutional availability to change according to expert criteria. (Methodology): 1) the factors that influence the decision to adopt an agricultural or forestry production system were identified; 2) a profile of an ideal productive system that met the interests and preferences of the small producer was made, which was compared with the characteristics of agricultural and forestry production; 3) the proposal of an EMFA adjusted to the preferences and interest of the producer was made, which was also compared with the ideal profile; 4) three proposed change actions were presented to experts, obtaining different degrees of possibility of changes in the EMFA. (Results): The discrepancy of the forest management scheme for the cultivation of trees with the perspective that a small producer has on an ideal production system was evidenced, as well as the substantial improvement that an EMFA would have in the valuation of the small producer and the institutional availability to change the EMFA according to the perspective of the small producers. (Conclusions): The adjustment of the forest management scheme allows a greater adoption of the activity by the small producer, but it was recognized that any proposal that is made would be successful only if forest governance makes it more flexible and allows change.

Resumen (Introducción): El cultivo actual de árboles es insuficiente para cubrir la demanda nacional de madera, de este modo, los pequeños productores se tornan como una alternativa de solución ante esta situación, ya que pese a contar con áreas pequeñas, en el país son abundantes las fincas con estas condiciones; sin embargo, el esquema actual de manejo forestal no cumple con estándares adecuados para la incorporación de estos pequeños productores. (Objetivo): Presentar un esquema de manejo forestal adaptativo (EMFA) a las necesidades del pequeño productor, además de evidenciar la disponibilidad institucional al cambio, según el criterio experto. (Metodología): 1) se identificaron los factores que influyen en la decisión de adopción de un sistema productivo agrícola o forestal; 2) se realizó un perfil de un sistema productivo ideal que cumpliera con los intereses y preferencias del pequeño productor, el cual se confrontó con las características de la producción agrícola y forestal; 3) se efectuó la propuesta de un EMFA ajustado a las preferencias e interés del productor, que fue también confrontada con el perfil ideal; 4) se expusieron tres acciones de cambio propuestas ante expertos, obteniendo diferentes grados de posibilidad de cambios en el EMFA. (Resultados): Se evidenció la discrepancia del esquema de manejo forestal para el cultivo de árboles con la perspectiva que un pequeño productor tiene sobre un sistema de producción ideal, asimismo la mejora sustancial que un EMFA tendría en la valoración del pequeño productor y la disponibilidad institucional al cambio del EMFA, según la perspectiva de los pequeños productores. (Conclusiones): El ajuste del esquema de manejo forestal permite una mayor adopción del cultivo de árboles por parte del pequeño productor, pero se reconoció que cualquier propuesta que se realice lograría ser exitosa si la gobernanza forestal flexibiliza y posibilita el cambio.

Abstract (Introduction): In the removal of chromium (VI) from tannery wastewater, physicochemical methods are the most used. However, these require high operating costs, and worse still, generate secondary pollutants that again require complementary treatments for their elimination. Given this, the applicability of vegetable organic biomass (VOB) emerges as an environmental alternative based on: the simplicity of its obtaining, the reduction as waste, it does not generate secondary pollutants and, above all, it removes chromium (VI). (Objective): Use VOB waste in an aerobic sequential biological reactor (SBR) for the removal of chromium (VI) in the treatment of tannery wastewater. (Methodology): 3 aerobic SBR systems were implemented; 2 controls (SBR1 and SBR2) and 1 study subject (SBR+VOB). Each system was fed with tannery wastewater (18 L) and connected to an aeration mechanism (12.7 L/min). The bacterial inoculum, a fundamental part of an SBR system, was gained from the selective culture of chromium (VI) reducing bacteria (RBCrVI) taken from the wastewater under study, and integrated into SBR2 and SBR+VOB at 0.6 g/L. The VOB was obtained from Stenotaphrum secundatum residues, fragmented, sieved, sterilized and integrated into the SBR+VOB at 1.5 g/L. (Results): The SBR+VOB system achieved the highest percentage of chromium (VI) removal (93 %), followed by SBR2 (80.1 %), and finally SBR1 (2.8 %). With respect to COD and TSS, the statistical test (Tukey) showed that there was no significant difference between the system under study and the controls, recording COD removal percentages ranging from 87.8 % to 88.4 %, and TSS ranging from 63.8 % to 69.2 %. (Conclusions): The viability of using VOB waste to remove chromium (VI) in the treatment of tannery wastewater has been evidenced. The results of this research create a promising panorama to mitigate the effects derived from inadequate management of tannery wastewater and organic solid waste.

Resumen (Introducción): En la remoción de cromo (VI) de aguas residuales de curtiembre, los métodos fisicoquímicos son los más empleados. Sin embargo, estos demandan altos costos operativos y, peor aún, generan contaminantes secundarios que nuevamente requieren tratamientos complementarios para su eliminación. Ante ello, la aplicabilidad de la biomasa orgánica vegetal (BOV) emerge como una alternativa ambiental sobre la base de: la simplicidad de su obtención, la disminución como residuo, no genera contaminantes secundarios y, sobre todo, de remover cromo (VI). (Objetivo): Usar residuos de BOV en un reactor biológico secuencial (RBS) aerobio, para la remoción de cromo (VI) en el tratamiento de agua residual de curtiembre. (Metodología): Se implementaron 3 sistemas RBS aerobios; 2 controles (RBS1 y RBS2) y 1 materia de estudio (RBS+BOV). Cada sistema fue alimentado con agua residual de curtiembre (18 L) y conectado a un mecanismo de aireación (12.7 L/ min). El inóculo bacteriano, parte fundamental de un sistema RBS, se obtuvo a partir del cultivo selectivo de bacterias reductoras de cromo (VI) (BRCrVI), tomadas del agua residual en estudio e integradas al RBS2 y RBS+BOV a 0.6 g/L. La BOV se obtuvo de residuos de Stenotaphrum secundatum, fragmentado, tamizado, esterilizado e integrado al RBS+BOV a 1.5 g/L. (Resultados): El sistema SRB+BOV alcanzó el mayor porcentaje de remoción de cromo (VI) (93 %), seguido por SBR2 (80.1 %) y, por último, de RBS1 (2.8 %). Con respecto a la DQO y SST, la prueba estadística (Tukey) arrojó que no había diferencia significativa entre el sistema en estudio y los controles, por lo que registró porcentajes de remoción de DQO que van de 87.8 % a 88.4 % y SST que van de 63.8 % a 69.2 %. (Conclusiones): Se ha evidenciado la viabilidad del aprovechamiento de residuos de BOV para remover cromo (VI) en el tratamiento de agua residual de curtiembre. Los resultados de la presente investigación crean un panorama prometedor para mitigar los efectos derivados de la inadecuada gestión de las aguas residuales de curtiembre y de los residuos sólidos orgánicos.

ABSTRACT: The success of endodontic treatments is related to the neutralization of bacteria and their toxins, inside and outside the root canal system of a tooth. Usually this is achieved, under ideal conditions, by means of a chemical-mechanical action (endodontic files and irrigation with appropriate solutions). Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are well-known for their antibacterial properties, and, for this reason, the aim of this work was to modify the surface of Nickel-Titanium (NiTi) endodontic files with AgNPs, to confer them antimicrobial ability and avoid infections. For this purpose, the preparation and characterization of stable colloids of AgNPs were carried out. Ten NiTi files for endodontics (brand K3 XF, Sybron-Endo Keer) were divided into 2 groups; 5 for group 1 (control, files as received) and 5 for group 2 (files previously coated with AgNPs). Both groups were subjected to biofilm formation using a culture composed of Candida albicans and Enterococcus faecalis, in an anaerobic environment. Endodontic files were successfully modified with silver nanoparticles, and, after exposure under anaerobic conditions to the selected microorganisms. Scanning electron microscopy revealed the proliferation of microorganisms on the surface of the control files. In contrast, the modified and coated files showed no biofilm formation, and the bacteria exhibited changes in cell wall morphology, likely associated with wall rupture and subsequent cell death. The coating of silver nanoparticles on the surface of the files shows to change the morphology of the bacterial wall, causing death and thus inhibition in formation of microbiological biofilms. Since reactive oxygen species (ROS) are unlikely to be present under the anaerobic conditions used, the microbicidal effect of the nanoparticles indicates that ROS-promoted oxidative stress is not an important mechanism of action, and inactivation of thiol-containing proteins could be a more important mechanism.

RESUMEN: El éxito de los tratamientos de endodoncia está relacionado con la neutralización de las bacterias y sus toxinas, dentro y fuera del sistema de conductos radiculares de un diente. Habitualmente esto se consigue, en condiciones ideales, mediante una acción químico-mecánica (limas endodónticas e irrigación con soluciones adecuadas). Las nanopartículas de plata (AgNPs) son conocidas por sus propiedades antibacterianas, por lo que el objetivo de este trabajo fue modificar la superficie de limas endodónticas de Níquel-Titanio (NiTi) con AgNPs, para conferirles capacidad antimicrobiana y evitar infecciones. Se realizó la preparación y caracterización de coloides estables de AgNPs. Diez limas NiTi para endodoncia (marca K3 XF, Sybron-Endo Keer) se dividieron en dos grupos; 5 para el grupo 1 (control, limas tal como se recibieron) y 5 para el grupo 2 (limas previamente recubiertas con AgNP). Ambos grupos fueron sometidos a la formación de biopelículas utilizando un cultivo compuesto por Candida albicans y Enterococcus faecalis, en un ambiente anaeróbico. Las limas endodónticas se modificaron exitosamente con nanopartículas de plata y, después de la exposición en condiciones anaeróbicas a los microorganismos seleccionados. El análisis mediante microscopía electrónica de barrido reveló proliferación de microorganismos en la superficie de las limas de control. En contraste, las limas modificadas y recubiertas no presentaron formación de biopelículas, y las bacterias evidenciaron cambios en la morfología de su pared celular, posiblemente asociados a la ruptura de esta y a la consecuente muerte celular. El recubrimiento de nanopartículas de plata en la superficie de las limas cambia la morfología de la pared bacteriana, provocando la muerte y por lo tanto la inhibición en la formación de biopelículas microbiológicas. Dado que es poco probable que estén presentes especies reactivas de oxígeno (ROS) en las condiciones anaeróbicas utilizadas, el efecto microbicida de las nanopartículas indica que el estrés oxidativo promovido por ROS no es un mecanismo de acción importante, y la inactivación de proteínas que contienen tioles podría ser un mecanismo más importante.

Abstract The study analyzed the socio-environmental determination of health in five sugarcane-producing municipalities in Pernambuco. This participatory, qualitative research was conducted from January to August 2022. Workshops were held in the participating communities to build the Participatory Rural Diagnosis of protective and destructive processes of global, community, and individual socio-environmental health dimensions. The communities pointed to social inequalities, productive deregulation, environmental degradation, labor exploitation, violence, and illness as the main processes affecting the territories. Despite this, protective processes were related to the social function of land and the right to agrarian reform, family farming, solidarity and community organization ties, and individual and family self-care practices. The diagnosis points to the need to build public policies for equity, protection, and reparation of the eco-social health of territories affected by sugarcane cultivation, burdened with intense use of pesticides and burning and over-exploited labor, among other socio-environmental problems.

Resumo O estudo analisou a determinação socioambiental da saúde em cinco municípios produtores de cana-de-açúcar em Pernambuco. Trata-se de uma pesquisa participante com abordagem qualitativa, realizada no período de janeiro a agosto de 2022. Foram realizadas oficinas nas comunidades participantes para a construção do Diagnóstico Rural Participativo dos processos protetores e destrutivos de dimensão global, comunitária e individual da saúde socioambiental. As comunidades apontaram as iniquidades sociais, a desregulamentação produtiva, degradação ambiental, exploração pelo trabalho, violência e adoecimento como os principais processos que acometem os territórios. Apesar disso, os processos protetores foram relacionados à função social da terra e o direito à reforma agrária; à agricultura familiar; aos laços de solidariedade e organização comunitária, bem como às práticas de autocuidado individual e familiar. O diagnóstico aponta para a necessidade da construção de políticas públicas de equidade, proteção e reparação da saúde ecossocial dos territórios afetados pelo cultivo da cana-de-açúcar, onde há intenso uso de agrotóxicos, prática de queimadas e superexploração do trabalho, dentre outros problemas socioambientais.

Resumen El estudio analizó la determinación socioambiental de la salud en cinco municipios productores de caña de azúcar de Pernambuco, Brasil. Se trata de una investigación participativa con enfoque cualitativo, realizada de enero a agosto de 2022. Se realizaron talleres en las comunidades participantes para construir el Diagnóstico Rural Participativo de procesos protectores y destructivos de las dimensiones global, comunitaria e individual de la salud socioambiental. Las comunidades señalaron las inequidades sociales, la desregulación productiva, la degradación ambiental, la explotación laboral, la violencia y las enfermedades como los principales procesos que afectan los territorios. Pese a ello, los procesos protectores estuvieron relacionados con la función social de la tierra y el derecho a la reforma agraria; a la agricultura familiar; vínculos de solidaridad y organización comunitaria, así como prácticas de autocuidado individual y familiar. El diagnóstico apunta a la necesidad de construir políticas públicas de equidad, protección y reparación de la salud eco-social de los territorios afectados por el cultivo de la caña de azúcar, donde existe un uso intenso de pesticidas, quemas y sobreexplotación del trabajo, entre otros problemas socioambientales.

Resumen La floricultura es un sector de creciente importancia a nivel mundial, contribuyendo a la generación de empleo, ingresos y a la promoción de la biodiversidad y la sostenibilidad. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo identificar los factores que influyen en la adopción de la floricultura como cultivo alternativo en la provincia de Leoncio Prado, Perú, y evaluar su viabilidad económica. Para ello, se encuestó a 269 agricultores, analizando actitudes, aptitud de la tierra, factores socioeconómicos y ambientales. Mediante análisis descriptivo, pruebas de chi-cuadrado y regresión logística (p < 0,1) se seleccionaron los factores influyentes. Además, se emplearon múltiples algoritmos de aprendizaje automático (Árboles de Decisión, Regresión Logística, KNN, SVM, Ensemble, Redes Neuronales, Naive Bayes) con validación cruzada (k = 5) y métricas AUC para modelar la intención de adopción. Se desarrollaron escenarios incrementando la predisposición a adoptar la floricultura, y se realizó un análisis económico de ocho especies tropicales (Ginger Rojo, Anturio, Bastón del Emperador, Heliconia, Gardenia, Pico de Loro, Heliconias Golden, Maracas). Los resultados revelan que la disposición a cambiar de cultivo, la participación en campañas de sensibilización, la destinación de áreas a la conservación y el control de costos son factores clave. El modelo de redes neuronales alcanzó un AUC de 83,3% y escenarios mejorados indican que la adopción podría incrementar hasta en 11,32%. El Ginger Rojo demostró alta rentabilidad (VAN S/10428; TIR 51%; PRI 0,7 años). En conclusión, la floricultura representa una alternativa económica y ambientalmente viable que contribuye a la diversificación agrícola y a la sostenibilidad.

Abstract Floriculture is a sector of growing global importance, contributing to employment generation, income creation, and the promotion of biodiversity and sustainability. This study aimed to identify the factors influencing the adoption of floriculture as an alternative crop in the province of Leoncio Prado, Peru, and to assess its economic viability. A total of 269 farmers were surveyed, analyzing attitudes, land suitability, and socioeconomic and environmental factors. Influential factors were identified using descriptive analysis, chi-square tests, and logistic regression (p < 0.1). Additionally, multiple machine learning algorithms (Decision Trees, Logistic Regression, KNN, SVM, Ensemble, Neural Networks, Naive Bayes) with cross-validation (k = 5) and AUC metrics were employed to model adoption intentions. Scenarios were developed to increase the willingness to adopt floriculture, and an economic analysis of eight tropical species (Red Ginger, Anthurium, Emperor's Staff, Heliconia, Gardenia, Parrot's Beak, Golden Heliconias, Maracas) was conducted. The results reveal that willingness to change crops, participation in awareness campaigns, allocation of areas for conservation, and cost control are key factors. The neural network model achieved an AUC of 83.3%, and improved scenarios indicate that adoption could increase by up to 11.32%. Red Ginger demonstrated high profitability (NPV S/10428; IRR 51%; PBP 0.7 years). In conclusion, floriculture represents an economically and environmentally viable alternative that contributes to agricultural diversification and sustainability.

RESUMO Este estudo bibliométrico tem como objetivo explorar o desenvolvimento da pesquisa sobre máquinas pré-colheita para o cultivo de óleo de palma de 2000 a 2022, revisando um total de 557 artigos, publicados em 195 periódicos, com 2989 citações e envolvendo 142 autores. A Malásia é o país mais produtivo na publicação de artigos, enquanto a revista Biosystems Engineering é a mais prolífica. Os principais temas identificados incluem biodiesel, máquinas pré-colheita e eficiência energética. A análise ressalta o papel crítico das máquinas pré-colheita na melhoria da eficiência e sustentabilidade da indústria do óleo de palma. Ela revela tendências chave em direção ao desenvolvimento de máquinas e tecnologias mais eficientes e sustentáveis para aumentar a produção de biodiesel. Além disso, este estudo identifica padrões significativos de pesquisa e tópicos populares, sugerindo novas direções para pesquisas futuras.

ABSTRACT This bibliometric study aimed to explore research on oil palm pre-harvest machinery from 2000 to 2022 by reviewing a total of 557 articles, published in 195 selected journals, with 2989 citations, involving 142 authors. Malaysia was the most productive country in terms of published articles, and Biosystems Engineering the most prolific journal. The main themes identified were biodiesel, pre-harvest machinery, and energy efficiency. The analysis underscored the critical role of pre-harvest machinery in improving the efficiency and sustainability of the palm oil industry and revealed key trends towards developing more efficient and sustainable machinery and technologies to boost biodiesel production. This study also identified significant research trends and frequent topics, suggesting new avenues for future research.