Revista de la Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias
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Garlic inhibitory effect on platelet activity induced by different agonists
No full textPlatelets are essential elements of human blood. In addition to their normal role, platelets are involved in causing myocardial infarction, stroke and other thrombotic disorders. Platelet activation in vivo, probably involves a combination of agonists. Garlic has beneficial effects due to its ability to inhibit platelet aggregation and thromboxane formation. The aim of this work was to evaluate the ability of garlic extracts to inhibit platelet aggregation induced by different agonists and their mixtures in different donors. Significant differences were found in platelet aggregation in response to each agonist (P ≤ 0.05). The highest antiaggregatory effect was observed with arachidonic acid and the lowest effect with collagen-arachidonic acid mixture. Interaction effects between donor and agonist (or mixtures) were detected. The study showed the potential of aqueous garlic extracts to prevent platelet aggregation induced by different agonist.
Highlights
Platelets play a central role in the progression of atherosclerotic lesions.
Blood from nine non-smoker healthy donors was used for in vitro platelet aggregation study.
Significant differences were found in platelet aggregation in response to each agonist.
Aqueous garlic extracts could prevent platelet aggregation induced by different agonist.Platelets are essential elements of human blood. In addition to their normal role, platelets are involved in causing myocardial infarction, stroke and other thrombotic disorders. Platelet activation in vivo, probably involves a combination of agonists. Garlic has beneficial effects due to its ability to inhibit platelet aggregation and thromboxane formation. The aim of this work was to evaluate the ability of garlic extracts to inhibit platelet aggregation induced by different agonists and their mixtures in different donors. Significant differences were found in platelet aggregation in response to each agonist (P ≤ 0.05). The highest antiaggregatory effect was observed with arachidonic acid and the lowest effect with collagen-arachidonic acid mixture. Interaction effects between donor and agonist (or mixtures) were detected. The study showed the potential of aqueous garlic extracts to prevent platelet aggregation induced by different agonist.
Highlights
Platelets play a central role in the progression of atherosclerotic lesions.
Blood from nine non-smoker healthy donors was used for in vitro platelet aggregation study.
Significant differences were found in platelet aggregation in response to each agonist.
Aqueous garlic extracts could prevent platelet aggregation induced by different agonist
Path analysis under multiple-trait BLUP: application in the study of interrelationships among traits related to cotton fiber length
No full textMulti-trait best linear unbiased prediction (BLUP) is, generally, the most appropriate method to genetic evaluation because it considers the genetic and residual correlations among traits and conduct to higher selection accuracy. Thus, the present study aimed to identify traits correlated to the fiber length via path analysis under multi-trait BLUP for the cotton breeding. To this end, thirty-six elite lines were evaluated in three environments and phenotyped for many traits related to fiber quality and agronomic traits. Variance components were estimated via residual maximum likelihood (REML). The genetic correlation coefficients among traits were obtained through mixed model output, and to graphically express these results a correlation network was built. Subsequently, we performed path analysis considering fiber length as a principal dependent variable. Genetic parameters obtained by multi-trait BLUP model indicate that the phenotypic variance for most traits is mostly composed of residual effects, which reinforces the need for using more accurate statistical methods such as multi-trait BLUP. The results found for genetic correlations and path analysis under multi-trait BLUP reveal the difficulty of selection based on important fiber quality traits, especially fiber length, since most traits show very low cause-and-effect relationship, and other important traits present undesirable cause-and-effect relationship.
Highlights
Multiple-trait BLUP is the most appropriate method to predict genetic values.
This is the first study in cotton to perform path analysis under multiple-trait BLUP.
The findings of this study indicate that there is no genotype presenting all desirable traits.Multi-trait best linear unbiased prediction (BLUP) is, generally, the most appropriate method to genetic evaluation because it considers the genetic and residual correlations among traits and conduct to higher selection accuracy. Thus, the present study aimed to identify traits correlated to the fiber length via path analysis under multi-trait BLUP for the cotton breeding. To this end, thirty-six elite lines were evaluated in three environments and phenotyped for many traits related to fiber quality and agronomic traits. Variance components were estimated via residual maximum likelihood (REML). The genetic correlation coefficients among traits were obtained through mixed model output, and to graphically express these results a correlation network was built. Subsequently, we performed path analysis considering fiber length as a principal dependent variable. Genetic parameters obtained by multi-trait BLUP model indicate that the phenotypic variance for most traits is mostly composed of residual effects, which reinforces the need for using more accurate statistical methods such as multi-trait BLUP. The results found for genetic correlations and path analysis under multi-trait BLUP reveal the difficulty of selection based on important fiber quality traits, especially fiber length, since most traits show very low cause-and-effect relationship, and other important traits present undesirable cause-and-effect relationship.
Highlights
Multiple-trait BLUP is the most appropriate method to predict genetic values.
This is the first study in cotton to perform path analysis under multiple-trait BLUP.
The findings of this study indicate that there is no genotype presenting all desirable traits
Environmental factors affecting germination of Mimosa ephedroides (Fabaceae), an endemic shrub from Monte Desert, Argentina
No full textMimosa ephedroides is an endemic shrub from western Argentina. The knowledge of the germination response of this species to different environmental factors contribute to its efficient use in ecological restoration projects. This study aimed to examine aspects of seed quality, seed dormancy, and the effect of temperature, water and saline stress on the germination of this species. Also, the effect of seed storage time on the viability and the percentage of germinated seeds were evaluated. Experiments were carried out in controlled growth chambers. Germination percentage and mean germination time were calculated. It was found that this species has non-dormant seeds. Concerning abiotic factors, the optimum temperature for germination ranged from 20 to 30 ºC, it presented high germination percentages even at moderate and severe water stress (-1.12 MPa), and the germination percentages decreased with increasing salinity levels from 300 mM NaCl. In short periods (up to 36 months), seed storage at room temperature (18ºC) was adequate, not affecting the viability and the germination power of the seeds. These results constitute a contribution to the knowledge of the autecological aspects of this endemic species, support its incorporation for restoration projects, and aid to an efficient use of native seeds for direct seeding or seedling production.
Highlights
Mimosa ephedroides seeds are non- dormant, show high viability and rapid germination (>24 h).
This shrub is able to germinate in a wide range of temperatures and under moderate and severe water stress.
High salinity levels (<300 Mm NaCl) negatively affected seed germination.
Seed storage for short periods (<5 years) at room temperature (18ºC) did not affect seed viability and germination.Mimosa ephedroides is an endemic shrub from western Argentina. The knowledge of the germination response of this species to different environmental factors contribute to its efficient use in ecological restoration projects. This study aimed to examine aspects of seed quality, seed dormancy, and the effect of temperature, water and saline stress on the germination of this species. Also, the effect of seed storage time on the viability and the percentage of germinated seeds were evaluated. Experiments were carried out in controlled growth chambers. Germination percentage and mean germination time were calculated. It was found that this species has non-dormant seeds. Concerning abiotic factors, the optimum temperature for germination ranged from 20 to 30 ºC, it presented high germination percentages even at moderate and severe water stress (-1.12 MPa), and the germination percentages decreased with increasing salinity levels from 300 mM NaCl. In short periods (up to 36 months), seed storage at room temperature (18ºC) was adequate, not affecting the viability and the germination power of the seeds. These results constitute a contribution to the knowledge of the autecological aspects of this endemic species, support its incorporation for restoration projects, and aid to an efficient use of native seeds for direct seeding or seedling production.
Highlights
Mimosa ephedroides seeds are non- dormant, show high viability and rapid germination (>24 h).
This shrub is able to germinate in a wide range of temperatures and under moderate and severe water stress.
High salinity levels (<300 Mm NaCl) negatively affected seed germination.
Seed storage for short periods (<5 years) at room temperature (18ºC) did not affect seed viability and germination
Competitive ability of canola (Brassica napus var. oleifera) hybrids with black oat (Avena strigosa) in a subtropical environment
Get PDFThe objective of this study was to assess the competitive ability of canola (Brassicanapus var. oleifera) hybrids in competition with black oat (Avena strigosa) in a subtropical environment. The experiments were conducted in a greenhouse where canola hybrids ‘Hyola 61,’ ‘Hyola 76,’ ‘Hyola 433,’ and ‘Hyola 571’ were tested individually for their competitive performance with black oat. The plant proportion between black oat and the canola hybrid was changed (100%:0%; 75%:25%; 50%:50%; 25%:75%; and 0%:100%) while keeping the total population of plants constant (20 plants plot‑1). Photosynthesis rate (μmol m-2 s-1), internal CO2 concentration (μmol mol-1), and transpiration rate (mol H2O m-2 s-1) were assessed using an infrared gas analyzer 55 days after emergence. Leaf area (m2 m-2) and dry matter (g m-2) were also assessed on the same day. The data set was analyzed by the replacement series method for competition studies. There was evidence of intense competition between canola and black oat, independent of plant proportion. The competitive ability of canola was distinct among hybrids; Hyola 571 performed better than the others in the competition against black oat. Choosing the most competitive hybrid, such as Hyola 571, helps maintain high canola grain yield levels in areas infested with black oat.
Highlights:
There is difference in competition among canola hybrids against black oat; Hyola 571 performed better in the competition;
Preference should be given for most competitive canola genotypes against weeds, and weed control should be carried out early in the critical period of interference;
Aggressiveness is the most preponderant parameter in determining canola genotypes with superior ability in competition against weeds.The objective of this study was to assess the competitive ability of canola (Brassicanapus var. oleifera) hybrids in competition with black oat (Avena strigosa) in a subtropical environment. The experiments were conducted in a greenhouse where canola hybrids ‘Hyola 61,’ ‘Hyola 76,’ ‘Hyola 433,’ and ‘Hyola 571’ were tested individually for their competitive performance with black oat. The plant proportion between black oat and the canola hybrid was changed (100%:0%; 75%:25%; 50%:50%; 25%:75%; and 0%:100%) while keeping the total population of plants constant (20 plants plot‑1). Photosynthesis rate (μmol m-2 s-1), internal CO2 concentration (μmol mol-1), and transpiration rate (mol H2O m-2 s-1) were assessed using an infrared gas analyzer 55 days after emergence. Leaf area (m2 m-2) and dry matter (g m-2) were also assessed on the same day. The data set was analyzed by the replacement series method for competition studies. There was evidence of intense competition between canola and black oat, independent of plant proportion. The competitive ability of canola was distinct among hybrids; Hyola 571 performed better than the others in the competition against black oat. Choosing the most competitive hybrid, such as Hyola 571, helps maintain high canola grain yield levels in areas infested with black oat.
Highlights:
There is difference in competition among canola hybrids against black oat; Hyola 571 performed better in the competition;
Preference should be given for most competitive canola genotypes against weeds, and weed control should be carried out early in the critical period of interference;
Aggressiveness is the most preponderant parameter in determining canola genotypes with superior ability in competition against weeds
Modeling the adoption of a garlic variety (Allium sativum L.) in Mexico through survival analysis: Adoption speed of a garlic variety in Mexico
No full textThe objective of this research was to analyze the adoption behavior over time for the improved variety of garlic CEZAC 06, and the factors associated with the adoption process through survival analysis (SA), in North-Central Mexico. The data comes at farm level and was collected in 2019 through a questionnaire given to 40 garlic farmers in Zacatecas, Mexico. The results show that 62.5 % of the farmers who adopted CEZAC 06 carried out this process in the first two years after they were first introduced to it. The factors that played a role in the adoption process were: farmer age, how long the farmer had been in business for, number of hectares availables for garlic production, yield, number of college-educated family members, income from crop farming, income from garlic farming, agriculture-related courses taken, financial aid from the federal government, and being part of any type of organization. Improving yield and the quality of the garlic bulb requires an adequate extension system that allows farmers to receive updated and reliable information on the importance of technological innovation.
Highlights
The analysis also suggested that new technologies should be transmitted at higher rates to increase adoption. This can be done by implementing courses aimed at farmers with low educational backgrounds, small plots of land and low productivity levels.
The factors affecting the adoption process were: farmer age, how long the farmer had been in business, yield, etc.
CEZAC 06 will increase yield and rural farmers could improve the quality of the bulb as a marketable surplus.
This work contributes to the scarce literature on the application of survival analysis to agricultural technologies.The objective of this research was to analyze the adoption behavior over time for the improved variety of garlic CEZAC 06, and the factors associated with the adoption process through survival analysis (SA), in North-Central Mexico. The data comes at farm level and was collected in 2019 through a questionnaire given to 40 garlic farmers in Zacatecas, Mexico. The results show that 62.5 % of the farmers who adopted CEZAC 06 carried out this process in the first two years after they were first introduced to it. The factors that played a role in the adoption process were: farmer age, how long the farmer had been in business for, number of hectares availables for garlic production, yield, number of college-educated family members, income from crop farming, income from garlic farming, agriculture-related courses taken, financial aid from the federal government, and being part of any type of organization. Improving yield and the quality of the garlic bulb requires an adequate extension system that allows farmers to receive updated and reliable information on the importance of technological innovation.
Highlights
The analysis also suggested that new technologies should be transmitted at higher rates to increase adoption. This can be done by implementing courses aimed at farmers with low educational backgrounds, small plots of land and low productivity levels.
The factors affecting the adoption process were: farmer age, how long the farmer had been in business, yield, etc.
CEZAC 06 will increase yield and rural farmers could improve the quality of the bulb as a marketable surplus.
This work contributes to the scarce literature on the application of survival analysis to agricultural technologies
Assessment of fodder corn grown under surface and subsurface drip irrigation in Mendoza, Argentina
Get PDFDrip irrigation –surface (DI) and subsurface (SDI)– is one of the best irrigation systems to increase both irrigation and water use efficiency. The objective of this research is to assess and compare the response of fodder corn to SDI treatments at two depths with DI in Mendoza. A full factorial experimental design was used on random plots and measurements were replicated through time. Tests were run in two consecutive cycles. Germination percentage (GP), yield, water use efficiency (WUE) and water productivity (WP) were assessed. High yields ranging from 70,214 to 105,771 kg ha-1 of green matter and from 10,020 to 22,476 kg ha-1 of dry matter (DM) were obtained in both cycles, respectively.
DM production from the first sowing was significantly higher in both cycles under SDI treatment than under DI. No significant differences in WP or WUE were found. GP and soil moisture (SM) did not show differences between treatments, but significant differences were found in SM (p=<0.0001) between the first soil layer and the other two layers.
Highlights
Germination percentage was not affected by the depth of the drip irrigation lines.
No significant differences were found in green matter yields between treatments in both crop cycles.
High crop water use was achieved. WUE values were 12 percent (and up to 41 percent) higher.Drip irrigation –surface (DI) and subsurface (SDI)– is one of the best irrigation systems to increase both irrigation and water use efficiency. The objective of this research is to assess and compare the response of fodder corn to SDI treatments at two depths with DI in Mendoza. A full factorial experimental design was used on random plots and measurements were replicated through time. Tests were run in two consecutive cycles. Germination percentage (GP), yield, water use efficiency (WUE) and water productivity (WP) were assessed. High yields ranging from 70,214 to 105,771 kg ha-1 of green matter and from 10,020 to 22,476 kg ha-1 of dry matter (DM) were obtained in both cycles, respectively.
DM production from the first sowing was significantly higher in both cycles under SDI treatment than under DI. No significant differences in WP or WUE were found. GP and soil moisture (SM) did not show differences between treatments, but significant differences were found in SM (p=<0.0001) between the first soil layer and the other two layers.
Highlights
Germination percentage was not affected by the depth of the drip irrigation lines.
No significant differences were found in green matter yields between treatments in both crop cycles.
High crop water use was achieved. WUE values were 12 percent (and up to 41 percent) higher
Chinese consumers’ purchase intention of fresh cherries: Modeling of relations between satisfaction and perceived quality
Get PDFThe purpose of this study was to model Chinese consumers’ intention to purchase fresh cherries through direct and indirect relations and mediating role between perceived intrinsic quality, perceived extrinsic quality and satisfaction. The analytical method used was a structural equation modeling (SEM). Surveys were applied to 388 buyers in three traditional markets in Beijing, China. A confirmatory factor analysis was performed, which presented an adequate goodness of fit to accept the model, according to the literature, which confirmed the relations. The results showed, that perceived extrinsic quality and satisfaction are directly and significantly related to Chinese consumers’ intention to purchase fresh cherries. Additionally, an indirect and significant relationship was found between perceived intrinsic quality and purchase intention, through the mediating role of satisfaction.
Highlights:
Only the intrinsic perceived quality in fresh cherries is directly and significantly related to the satisfaction of Chinese consumers, generating indirect effects on the purchase intention through the mediating role of satisfaction, which is opposed to the results obtained in extrinsic perceived quality.
The results obtained in this study determined that the intrinsic perceived quality does not present a direct and significant relationship with the purchase intention in fresh cherries, a result in conflict with that obtained in the extrinsic perceived quality.
It was statistically demonstrated that intrinsic perceived quality has an indirect and significant influence on purchase intention through the mediating role of satisfaction; on the other hand, no indirect and significant influence was found between perceived extrinsic quality and purchase intention as a result of the mediating role of satisfaction.
Satisfaction has a direct and significant relation on the purchase intention of Chinese consumers.
The results of this research seem to be in line with the marketing initiatives developed by ASOEX, enhancing the attributes of intrinsic quality, color and size, and linking it to celebrations and traditions, through activities such as "Super Cherries days", "Chilean Cherries dance" and "Cherries from Chile", activities that have also been enhanced by public policies and agreements such as the free trade agreement between the two countries in force since 2005.The purpose of this study was to model Chinese consumers’ intention to purchase fresh cherries through direct and indirect relations and mediating role between perceived intrinsic quality, perceived extrinsic quality and satisfaction. The analytical method used was a structural equation modeling (SEM). Surveys were applied to 388 buyers in three traditional markets in Beijing, China. A confirmatory factor analysis was performed, which presented an adequate goodness of fit to accept the model, according to the literature, which confirmed the relations. The results showed, that perceived extrinsic quality and satisfaction are directly and significantly related to Chinese consumers’ intention to purchase fresh cherries. Additionally, an indirect and significant relationship was found between perceived intrinsic quality and purchase intention, through the mediating role of satisfaction.
Highlights:
Only the intrinsic perceived quality in fresh cherries is directly and significantly related to the satisfaction of Chinese consumers, generating indirect effects on the purchase intention through the mediating role of satisfaction, which is opposed to the results obtained in extrinsic perceived quality.
The results obtained in this study determined that the intrinsic perceived quality does not present a direct and significant relationship with the purchase intention in fresh cherries, a result in conflict with that obtained in the extrinsic perceived quality.
It was statistically demonstrated that intrinsic perceived quality has an indirect and significant influence on purchase intention through the mediating role of satisfaction; on the other hand, no indirect and significant influence was found between perceived extrinsic quality and purchase intention as a result of the mediating role of satisfaction.
Satisfaction has a direct and significant relation on the purchase intention of Chinese consumers.
The results of this research seem to be in line with the marketing initiatives developed by ASOEX, enhancing the attributes of intrinsic quality, color and size, and linking it to celebrations and traditions, through activities such as "Super Cherries days", "Chilean Cherries dance" and "Cherries from Chile", activities that have also been enhanced by public policies and agreements such as the free trade agreement between the two countries in force since 2005
Predation capacity and larval development of Ceraeochrysa claveri (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae) fed with Raoiella indica (Acari: Tenuipalpidae)
Get PDFCeraeochrysa claveri Navás (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae) is a predator found in several agricultural ecosystems and feeds on insects and phytophagous mites. Its high reproductive potential and forage capacity makes it a candidate for biological control of agricultural pests. Raoiella indica Hirst (Acari: Tenuipalpidae) is an important pest that can damage several species of palms, in particular, Cocos nucifera L. Given the scarcity of available knowledge about the biological aspects of Chrysopidae fed with phytophagous mites, the present work aimed to study the larval development of C. claveri fed mainly with R. indica, in order to obtain information that would be of help in the integrated management of this pest. The evaluation was performed in the F0 generation. Larva 3 is the instar that consumes the most mites (F value = 32.99; P > 0.0001) (L3: 46.80 ± 10.12 a; L2: 9.80 ± 1.23 b; L1: 9.40 ± 1.58 b). C. claveri did not complete larval development when fed only with R. indica. Larval instars L1, L2 and L3 lived 7.4 ± 2.2, 7.6 ± 1.9 and 9.0 ± 3.9 days, respectively. The larvae that reached the pupal stage failed to grow further. When adding Sitotroga cerealella Olivier (Lepidoptera: Gelechidae) eggs to the diet, the development lasted 7.9 ± 0.2, 7.4 ± 0.8, 6.5 ± 0.9 and 13.6 ± 0.9 days for L1, L2, L3 and pupae, respectively. The adults lived on average 6.7 ± 4.9 days. The sexual ratio was rt = 0.42. According to the conditions under which the experiment was carried out, it can be inferred is that C. claveri cannot complete its development by feeding only on R. indica, and that it thus consumes this mite as an occasional prey.
Highlights:
Ceraeochrysa claveri is a predator found in various agricultural ecosystems and feeds on insects and phytophagous mites.
Raoiella indica is an important mite that can damage several species of palms, in particular Cocos nucifera
Ceraeochrysa claveri does not complete its biological cycle by feeding only on indica. By adding another protein source to L3, it can reach the adult stage in 35.4±2.8 days.
Ceraeochrysa claveri does not complete its cycle by feeding only on R. indica and consequently takes this mite as occasional prey.Ceraeochrysa claveri Navás (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae) is a predator found in several agricultural ecosystems and feeds on insects and phytophagous mites. Its high reproductive potential and forage capacity makes it a candidate for biological control of agricultural pests. Raoiella indica Hirst (Acari: Tenuipalpidae) is an important pest that can damage several species of palms, in particular, Cocos nucifera L. Given the scarcity of available knowledge about the biological aspects of Chrysopidae fed with phytophagous mites, the present work aimed to study the larval development of C. claveri fed mainly with R. indica, in order to obtain information that would be of help in the integrated management of this pest. The evaluation was performed in the F0 generation. Larva 3 is the instar that consumes the most mites (F value = 32.99; P > 0.0001) (L3: 46.80 ± 10.12 a; L2: 9.80 ± 1.23 b; L1: 9.40 ± 1.58 b). C. claveri did not complete larval development when fed only with R. indica. Larval instars L1, L2 and L3 lived 7.4 ± 2.2, 7.6 ± 1.9 and 9.0 ± 3.9 days, respectively. The larvae that reached the pupal stage failed to grow further. When adding Sitotroga cerealella Olivier (Lepidoptera: Gelechidae) eggs to the diet, the development lasted 7.9 ± 0.2, 7.4 ± 0.8, 6.5 ± 0.9 and 13.6 ± 0.9 days for L1, L2, L3 and pupae, respectively. The adults lived on average 6.7 ± 4.9 days. The sexual ratio was rt = 0.42. According to the conditions under which the experiment was carried out, it can be inferred is that C. claveri cannot complete its development by feeding only on R. indica, and that it thus consumes this mite as an occasional prey.
Highlights:
Ceraeochrysa claveri is a predator found in various agricultural ecosystems and feeds on insects and phytophagous mites.
Raoiella indica is an important mite that can damage several species of palms, in particular Cocos nucifera
Ceraeochrysa claveri does not complete its biological cycle by feeding only on indica. By adding another protein source to L3, it can reach the adult stage in 35.4±2.8 days.
Ceraeochrysa claveri does not complete its cycle by feeding only on R. indica and consequently takes this mite as occasional prey
Waste assessment in distribution and marketing logistics of horticultural products: evidence from Brazil
Get PDFWorldwide, one-third of the food produced is inconsumable due to marketable quality losses. Parallelly, and given the growing world population, levels of waste have become unacceptable. Supply channels play a fundamental role in establishing strategies for food waste mitigation. The objective of this research was to analyze if good operational practices with different dimensions of distribution and commercialization logistics may contribute to reduce fruit and vegetable waste. The studied dimensions were: logistics, operations, technology, trade and management. Several questionnaires were administered to 83 specialized wholesale merchants from a large supply center in Brazil, for lettuce, potato, orange, papaya and tomato. The results indicated that for papaya and potato, low and high waste generation are associated with a greater number of anti-waste actions (p = 0.0071 and p = 0.0469 respectively). For tomato, lettuce and orange, no significant differences for found. These results represent a first approach to understanding the reasons for food waste at wholesale centers.
Highlights:
Worldwide, one-third of the food produced is inconsumable due to marketable quality losses. In Brazil, about 40 thousand tons of food is wasted per year.
Food waste in the fruit and vegetable supply chain is associated with the following dimensions: logistics, operation, technology, trade and management.
For papaya and potatoes, low levels of residues are associated with a greater number of anti-waste actions such use of a cold chamber and use of promotional pricing, respectively.
For tomato, lettuce and orange, no significant differences was found for high and low levels of waste in relation to the number of actions undertaken in these chains.Worldwide, one-third of the food produced is inconsumable due to marketable quality losses. Parallelly, and given the growing world population, levels of waste have become unacceptable. Supply channels play a fundamental role in establishing strategies for food waste mitigation. The objective of this research was to analyze if good operational practices with different dimensions of distribution and commercialization logistics may contribute to reduce fruit and vegetable waste. The studied dimensions were: logistics, operations, technology, trade and management. Several questionnaires were administered to 83 specialized wholesale merchants from a large supply center in Brazil, for lettuce, potato, orange, papaya and tomato. The results indicated that for papaya and potato, low and high waste generation are associated with a greater number of anti-waste actions (p = 0.0071 and p = 0.0469 respectively). For tomato, lettuce and orange, no significant differences for found. These results represent a first approach to understanding the reasons for food waste at wholesale centers.
Highlights:
Worldwide, one-third of the food produced is inconsumable due to marketable quality losses. In Brazil, about 40 thousand tons of food is wasted per year.
Food waste in the fruit and vegetable supply chain is associated with the following dimensions: logistics, operation, technology, trade and management.
For papaya and potatoes, low levels of residues are associated with a greater number of anti-waste actions such use of a cold chamber and use of promotional pricing, respectively.
For tomato, lettuce and orange, no significant differences was found for high and low levels of waste in relation to the number of actions undertaken in these chains
Factors affecting postpartum ovarian activity of goats in tropical semi-arid region : Environment and nutrition factors in reproduction
No full textThere have been few studies on the use of diets and strategies to reduce the length of postpartum anoestrus in dairy goats, especially in tropical semi-arid regions. This review discusses the factors influencing the return of postpartum ovarian activity in goats. During the postpartum period, goats are in puerperal anoestrus and their reproductive tract is being prepared for a new conception. Anoestrus is necessary for tissue renewal in the uterus (uterine involution) associated with the return of cyclic ovarian activity, and is influenced by factors such as suckling of the offspring, social interactions, body condition score (BCS) before and after birth, intensity of negative energy balance (NEB) and stress from adverse climatic conditions. The anoestrus period can be extended by delays in the resumption of reproductive activity of females in puerperium. The duration of puerperal anoestrus in goats directly affects the productivity of the herd and is mainly influenced by nutrition, lactation period and heat stress. To minimize the negative effects of postpartum anoestrus on productivity, we recommend a mating season and a plan for the kidding period, as well as a program to monitor the body condition score during pregnancy so that the animals will have a better BCS at parturition. To minimize the effects of a negative energy balance, we suggest nutritional supplementation with levels of energy above the requirements for maintenance.
Highlights
The duration of postpartum anoestrus in goats is influenced by nutrition and body condition score.
Heat stress can intensify the negative energy balance, consequently increased the period of anoestrus.
Puerperal anoestrus occurs as a result of tissue renewal in the uterus.
Suckling of the offspring associated with the period of lactation and social interactions can modified the puerperal anoestrus period.
Use of diets and strategies to reduce the postpartum anoestrus in goats.There have been few studies on the use of diets and strategies to reduce the length of postpartum anoestrus in dairy goats, especially in tropical semi-arid regions. This review discusses the factors influencing the return of postpartum ovarian activity in goats. During the postpartum period, goats are in puerperal anoestrus and their reproductive tract is being prepared for a new conception. Anoestrus is necessary for tissue renewal in the uterus (uterine involution) associated with the return of cyclic ovarian activity, and is influenced by factors such as suckling of the offspring, social interactions, body condition score (BCS) before and after birth, intensity of negative energy balance (NEB) and stress from adverse climatic conditions. The anoestrus period can be extended by delays in the resumption of reproductive activity of females in puerperium. The duration of puerperal anoestrus in goats directly affects the productivity of the herd and is mainly influenced by nutrition, lactation period and heat stress. To minimize the negative effects of postpartum anoestrus on productivity, we recommend a mating season and a plan for the kidding period, as well as a program to monitor the body condition score during pregnancy so that the animals will have a better BCS at parturition. To minimize the effects of a negative energy balance, we suggest nutritional supplementation with levels of energy above the requirements for maintenance.
Highlights
The duration of postpartum anoestrus in goats is influenced by nutrition and body condition score.
Heat stress can intensify the negative energy balance, consequently increased the period of anoestrus.
Puerperal anoestrus occurs as a result of tissue renewal in the uterus.
Suckling of the offspring associated with the period of lactation and social interactions can modified the puerperal anoestrus period.
Use of diets and strategies to reduce the postpartum anoestrus in goats