Revista de Ciencias Agropecuarias ALLPA. ISSN: 2600-5883.

Adaptation of 21 F6 lines of rice (Oryza sativa sp. Índica and japónica), under the climatic conditions of the Manglaralto parish, Santa Elena province

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The experiment was conducted at the Manglaralto Support Center, Santa Elena Province. The objective of this research was to evaluate the development of 21 F6 rice lines (Oryza sativa sp. indica and japonica) adapted to the climatic conditions of the area. Morphological and productive characteristics were analyzed using variables such as plant weight, number of tillers and panicles, panicle length, grain dimensions with and without husk, and weight of 1,000 grains. A Completely Randomized Block Design was used with 21 treatments and 3 replications. For the analysis of agronomic variables, InfoStat software was applied, comparing treatment means through analysis of variance (ANOVA) with Tukey’s test (≤ 0.05) to compare means. The results showed that six lines stood out for their high agronomic performance, exhibiting excellent morphological and physiological characteristics under Manglaralto’s conditions. This suggests that these lines could be key to enhancing rice production in the area.

Keywords: F6 lines, rice, crosses, morphological characteristics, agronomic and physiological.

Use of coffee bagasse (robusta) for paper production

Holguín-Flores Edisson Andrés, Santacruz-Terán Stalin Gustavo — Wed, 09 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Coffee is one of the world's most valuable commodities. Its manufacturing process generates waste that could be transformed into a product. The purpose of this study was to obtain a paper with characteristics similar to commercial paper. To this end, the use of sodium hydroxide at three concentrations (13, 15, and 17%) and the type of starch used in the sizing phase (cassava starch and corn starch) were studied on the paper's physical and mechanical characteristics. The paper with the best characteristics was obtained with cassava starch as a sizing additive. Regarding thickness, treatments T2, T3, T5, T6, T8, and T9 ranged in thickness from 0.76 to 0.83 mm, complying with TAPPI Standard T 410. In the case of ash analysis, treatment T4 showed the lowest ash content (4.12%). The weight treatments exceeded the requirements of TAPPI T410 (70-119 g/m2), but are nevertheless suitable for paperboard and cardboard. The evaluation of the whiteness index showed that the concentration of NaOH influences its hue. It is concluded that coffee grounds are an alternative for papermaking, and it is suggested that this line of research be continued using other starch sources, concentrations, and coffee varieties.

Keywords: By-product, revaluation, concentration, coffee bagasse.

Characteristics of soils with rotating crop management and protective forest

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The study analyzes the physical and chemical characteristics of the soil in a protective forest and a rotation crop (corn), with the aim of evaluating their impact on soil quality and sustainability. It was carried out at the Center for Agricultural Research, Innovation and Development (CIIDEA) of the Escuela Superior Politécnica Agropecuaria de Manabí "Manuel Félix López" (ESPAM MFL), in the Bolívar canton, Ecuador. The methodology included the analysis of 120 soil samples at different depths (0-5, 5-10, 10-20 and 20-30 cm). Variables such as humidity, apparent density, real density, pH, electrical conductivity, organic matter content and soil texture were evaluated. The results showed that humidity did not vary significantly between both systems, indicating that plant cover does not always guarantee greater moisture retention. The bulk density of the protective forest showed differences between under plants and streets, with values of 1.35 g/cm³ and 1.39 g/cm³, reflecting compaction. In the rotation crop, the bulk density remained the same, with an average of 1.38 g/cm³. The comparison between texture and organic matter showed greater variability in the protective forest, with clayey to sandy textures and an organic matter content between 0.27% and 2.04%. In conclusion, the rotation crop presented a better organic matter content, suggesting that sustainable agricultural practices can improve soil structure. Also reducing compaction and increasing organic matter is the key to soil conservation and adaptation to environmental changes.

Keywords: Soil quality, Crop rotation, Protective Forest, Agricultural management.

Cultivation of medicinal plants as a strategy for health security in rural communities with older adults

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

An aging population and limited access to health services in rural areas pose challenges to the health security of older adults. The cultivation of medicinal plants, combined with good agricultural practices, is presented as a strategy to improve the health and well-being of this vulnerable group. Objective: Determine the use of medicinal plants as a complement to health systems in rural communities, promoting health self-management and healthy aging. Material and methods: Descriptive, cross-sectional study, population of 30 older adults Discussion: The therapeutic properties of local species, their traditional use and the possibilities of integration in primary health care were analyzed. Results: There are successful experiences of cultivation and use of medicinal plants in rural communities with older adults, highlighting the benefits in terms of accessibility, sustainability and revaluation of traditional knowledge. Conclusion: There is the potential of medicinal plants to improve the quality of life of older adults in rural areas, promoting research, education and public policies that favor their responsible and sustainable use.

Keywords: Older adults, caregivers, nurses, farmers, community health promoters.

Family medicinal gardens: Empowering rural women in family health care

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Family health is essential because it promotes the physical and mental well-being of all its members. Objective: To analyze the role of family medicinal gardens in the empowerment of rural women and their impact on family health care in the Boca de Caña community. Materials and Methods: A qualitative study was conducted with 10 rural women who cultivate medicinal gardens. Semi-structured interviews and participant observation were conducted to explore their knowledge about medicinal plants, cultivation practices, uses in family health care, and perception of empowerment. Results: The women demonstrated extensive knowledge about the properties and uses of various medicinal plants (chamomile, marigold, oregano) to treat common ailments (colds, diarrhea, headaches) in their families. The cultivation of these plants gave them autonomy in health care, reducing dependence on expensive medications and promoting self-management of health. The women expressed feeling empowered by providing their families with natural remedies and preserving ancestral knowledge. Discussion: Family medicinal gardens are configured as spaces of female empowerment, strengthening the role of women as health caretakers and promoters of traditional knowledge. Access to medicinal plants improves family health and reduces vulnerability in contexts of limited access to health services. Conclusion: Family medicinal gardens empower rural women, giving them autonomy in family health care and strengthening their role as transmitters of ancestral knowledge.

Keywords: medicinal plants, self-care, empowerment.

Multitemporal analysis of the cultivated areas of Theobroma cacao L., in the parish Eloy Alfaro of the Chone canton

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The expansion of cocoa cultivation in the Eloy Alfaro parish of the Chone canton and its impact on natural vegetation cover has been the subject of study. Using Sentinel-2 and Landsat 7 satellite images, supervised and unsupervised classification techniques were applied to identify cultivated areas and their temporal evolution. Supervised classification allowed for a more accurate characterization of the crops. In addition, the analysis of vegetation indices showed that NDVI is a robust indicator for assessing the health of cocoa crops, presenting a high correlation with other spectral indices. However, the expansion of cultivation has resulted in a reduction in natural vegetation. The findings highlight the need to implement sustainable agricultural practices, such as agroforestry systems and efficient soil management, to balance cocoa production with environmental conservation.

Keywords: Cocoa, remote sensing, spectral indices, classification, sustainability.

Effect of soaking and heat treatments on the physical, chemical and functional characteristics of Vigna unguiculata and Lupinus mutabilis sweet

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The increase in population requires greater food production. However, the production of proteins of animal origin requires the use of more resources in relation to vegetable proteins. Cereals and legumes are sources of protein for human nutrition, which could partially replace proteins of animal origin. Native crops of cereals and legumes also allow us to strengthen the food security of the regions from which they come, such as lupine (Lupinus mutabilis sweet) and canario beans (Vigna unguiculata). In the present study, the effect of soaking and thermal treatment (cooking and high-pressure cooking) on the physical, chemical and functional characteristics of bean and lupine seeds and flours was evaluated. The results showed that the soaked grains had a greater mass and greater hydration capacity than those that were not soaked prior to heat treatment. Bean and lupine flours subjected to soaking and heat treatment showed low foaming capacity but high foaming stability. Regarding the chemical composition, only the lipid content showed dependence on the soaking-thermal treatment combination, with the lipid content being higher for the samples that were subjected to soaking.

Keywords: cooking, high pressure cooking, absorption, emulsion, foaming estability.

Use of Good practices for the generalization (diffusion) of the potential of Artocarpus species in Cuba

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Artocarpus species are underexploited in many Cuban provinces. They represent great nutritional potential for current and future generations in the search for food sovereignty due to their high nutritional and culinary potential. On the Isle of Youth, very promising results have been obtained with these species regarding their propagation, diverse culinary forms, and production and obtaining a gluten-free flour. The objective was to train producers, technicians, and specialists on the potential of Artocarpus species, using best practices for their widespread use in three Cuban provinces. Participatory research and extension techniques were used as methodology. As a result, three theoretical and practical workshops were held that allowed for the socialization of the experiences gained on the Isle of Youth; producers acquired new knowledge about the culinary potential and flour production. These workshops allowed for the sharing and application of good practices learned in the propagation, culinary diversity, and production of flour in these provinces, contributing to improved human nutrition, given the importance of this fruit as a healthy, gluten-free food. It is concluded that the theoretical and practical workshops provided new knowledge and skills to producers and other participants regarding the use of good practices and the potential of these species.

Keywords: Artocarpus, good practices, diffusion, potential.

Diagnosis of the prevalence and efficacy of treatment with cephalosporin, estradiol and prostaglandin in subclinical endometritis in cattle

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Subclinical endometritis is a highly prevalent postpartum uterine pathology in cattle, negatively impacting reproductive efficiency and the profitability of livestock systems. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of subclinical endometritis in crossbred cows from the Canuto parish and to evaluate the effectiveness of a combined therapeutic protocol (cephalosporin, estradiol benzoate, and prostaglandin F2α) versus conventional tetracycline treatment in crossbred cows from the Canuto parish, Chone canton, Ecuador. A total of 316 cows were studied between 30 and 90 days postpartum, of which 141 were diagnosed with subclinical endometritis by transrectal ultrasound. The diagnosed cows were randomly assigned to two treatment groups. The efficacy of the combined treatment was determined to be 98.6% in the group treated with the combined regimen. No significant correlations were found between clinical response and variables such as parity, weight, altitude, or method of conception. It is concluded that combination therapy is highly effective for the clinical resolution of subclinical endometritis and represents a superior therapeutic alternative for improving uterine health and productivity in cattle.

Keywords: subclinical endometritis, combination therapy, crossbred cattle, reproductive health, therapeutic efficacy.

Oocyte quality and its relationship with in vitro bovine embryo production

Vilela-Velásquez Luis Javier, Aguilar-Camba Sergio Paúl — Wed, 09 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

In vitro bovine embryo production is a key technique for the genetic improvement and multiplication of animals of high zootechnical value. The objective of this research was to evaluate oocyte quality and its relationship to in vitro bovine embryo production. Bovine ovaries were collected from slaughterhouses, and oocytes were extracted and classified into Grades I, II, and III according to the morphological criteria of the International Society of Embryo Technology. Culture was performed under controlled conditions, and embryonic development parameters were recorded. The Shapiro-Wilk normality test indicated that the data did not follow a normal distribution; therefore, nonparametric Kruskal-Wallis and Spearman correlation tests were applied. The results obtained show that there were no significant differences between oocyte quality groups for the variables studied. However, significant positive correlations were found between maturation and cleavage (p = 0.716), cleavage and blastocyst (p = 0.733), and blastocyst and hatching (p = 0.778). These results suggest that successful embryonic development is more closely associated with the degree of maturation and early cleavage than with initial morphological quality.

Keywords: oocyte quality, in vitro production, bovine embryos, embryo cleavage, hatching rate.

Comparative therapeutic efficacy of Vincristine sulfate dosages in mixed-breed dogs with transmissible venereal tumor

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Canine transmissible venereal tumor (TVT) is a contagious neoplasm that poses therapeutic and epidemiological challenges worldwide. This study evaluated the efficacy of intravenous vincristine sulfate administered under two weekly protocols: an adjusted regimen (0.5–0.7 mg/m²) and a fixed dose (0.75 mg/m²) over six consecutive weeks. Two clinical cases with genital and metastatic cutaneous involvement, respectively, are reported. Both protocols achieved over 90% tumor reduction, with a faster response observed in the adjusted protocol (86.7% reduction at week five versus 75% in the fixed-dose group). Cytological analyses demonstrated progressive decrease in neoplastic cell populations, presence of inflammatory infiltrates, and clear signs of cellular degeneration, with no evidence of tumor recurrence. No significant hematological or systemic adverse effects were observed. The results confirm the high efficacy and safety of vincristine sulfate in TVT treatment and suggest that individualized dosing protocols may accelerate therapeutic response without compromising treatment effectiveness.

Keywords: Transmissible venereal tumor, vincristine sulfate, veterinary chemotherapy, cytology.

Histological architecture of the aortic arch in three species: implications for comparative cardiovascular research

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The aorta is an essential component of the cardiovascular system and it varies significantly between species and adapts to the specific hemodynamic demands of each organism. This study aimed to provide a comparative description of the histological characteristics of the aortic arch in cattle, pigs, and humans. The samples were obtained from a slaughterhouse in the Bolívar cantón in Manabí, Ecuador, processed in a pathology laboratory, and observed using a digital microscope (ABAXIS 3000-LED Series). The average diameters measured were 2,68 ± 0,70 cm in cattle, 1,92 ± 0,48 cm in pigs and 2,35 ± 0,35 cm in humans. Histologically, the human tunica intima exhibited polygonal endothelial cells, in cattle, fusiform nuclei, and pigs presented and internal elastic membrane. The tunica media in humans displayed fenestrated elastic fibers, cattle had multiple compact layers, and pigs exhibited collagen fibers with poorly defined elastic bands. The tunica adventitia was fibroelastic with vasa vasorum in humans, dense in cattle, and loose with abundant collagen in pigs. It is concluded that the pig, due to its histological and morphometric similarity to humans, represents a preferred experimental model for vascular studies.

Keywords: aorta artery, cattle, histology, human, pigs.

Doppler ultrasound in cattle: clinical utility for early resynchronization compared to other imaging techniques

Vélez-Pinto Jean Franco, Macías-Andrade José Ignacio — Wed, 09 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Low reproductive efficiency in cattle represents a significant economic challenge, as it increases the number of days open, reduces productivity, and affects the profitability of beef and dairy systems. In this context, Doppler ultrasound has emerged as an innovative tool for assessing reproductive physiology, particularly in the early detection of non-pregnant females and the optimization of resynchronization programs. This systematic review, developed using the PRISMA methodology, analyzed 30 studies published between 2015 and 2024 in high-impact databases. The findings show that intraluteal perfusion measured with Doppler (area in cm² or percentage vascularized) is the most sensitive and early indicator of corpus luteum function, surpassing indirect metrics such as arterial spectral indices (RI and PI) or B-mode morphological measurements. Practical thresholds were established (≥0.52 cm² on D7; ≥0.77 cm² on D14; >0.55 cm² or >15.68% on D16; ≥51% on D20–22) that allow non-pregnancy to be ruled out and timely resynchronization to be performed, reducing reproductive losses. Compared with other techniques, Doppler provides functional information complementary to morphology, establishing itself as a clinical aid to improve decision-making in bovine reproductive management.

Keywords: Doppler ultrasound, bovine reproduction, corpus luteum, blood flow, early resynchronization.

Prevalence of Toxocara canis and Dipylidium caninum in domestic dogs (Canis lupus familiaris): A review

Gutiérrez-Bazurto Mercedes Paulette, Campozano-Marcillo Gustavo Adolfo — Wed, 09 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Abstract

The present study aimed to conduct a literature review on the prevalence of Toxocara canis and Dipylidium caninum in domestic dogs and their impact on public health due to their zoonotic nature. A narrative review design with an exploratory and descriptive approach was used, utilizing a systematic search of scientific literature in databases such as Scopus, Springer, SciELO, Google Scholar, and ResearchGate. Studies from the last seven years were analyzed, complemented by classic bibliographies. In total, studies involving 671 dogs from different Latin American regions were reviewed, with prevalences varying according to geographic and socioeconomic conditions. Toxocara canis had a prevalence between 8.2% and 71.1%, especially in young and undewormed dogs, while Dipylidium caninum ranged between 2.5% and 47.06%, mainly associated with the presence of ectoparasites such as fleas and lice. Among the most influential factors in the presence of intestinal parasites are free access to the outdoors, coexistence with other animals, inadequate nutrition, and lack of antiparasitic treatment. The most commonly used diagnostic methods were stool parasitometry, flotation, sedimentation, ELISA, and the SNAP® test. It is concluded that the high prevalence of these parasites represents a significant risk to human health due to their zoonotic potential.

Keywords: zoonosis, public health, incidence, parasitism, ectoparasites.

Doppler ultrasound and its application in reproductive programs in cattle

Brito-Donoso Fernando Javier, Macias-Andrade Jorge Ignacio — Wed, 09 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Reproductive efficiency in cattle is a critical factor for the sustainability of beef and dairy systems, where early pregnancy losses and prolonged calving intervals are persistent challenges. Doppler ultrasound has emerged as an innovative alternative that allows for real-time assessment of blood flow and corpus luteum function. The objective of this systematic review was to analyze the usefulness of Doppler ultrasound in bovine reproductive programs, particularly in ultra-early pregnancy diagnosis, the selection of recipients for embryo transfer, and the assessment of luteal function. Thirty-five studies published between 2014 and 2025 were reviewed in indexed databases, following PRISMA guidelines to ensure a rigorous methodological process. The results show that Doppler ultrasound can diagnose pregnancy as early as 20 days post-insemination, with a sensitivity approaching 99% and higher accuracy than B-mode ultrasound. Furthermore, luteal vascularization was positively correlated with plasma progesterone levels, thus validating its use as a functional marker. In embryo transfer protocols, females with greater luteal perfusion were up to 2.3 times more likely to have reproductive success. It is concluded that Doppler ultrasound is a valuable tool for shortening intervals between services, optimizing recipient selection, and improving the efficiency of reproductive programs.

Keywords: Doppler ultrasound, corpus luteum, early pregnancy, bovine reproduction.

Impact of mineral deficiencies on productive and reproductive performance in cattle: A review

Fernández-Cheme Julissa Tatiana, Aguilar-Camba Sergio Paul — Wed, 09 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The objective of this literature review was to analyze studies between 2015 and 2025 on the impact of mineral deficiencies on cattle production and reproduction. Biochemical, clinical, and production data from more than 700 animals were evaluated using techniques such as spectrophotometry and mineral analysis (Ca, P, Mg, Zn, Se, Cu, Co). The discussion highlights those deficiencies in these minerals delay the resumption of postpartum ovarian cyclicity, reduce conception rates, increase anestrus, and decrease milk production. In addition, supplementation strategies such as the use of intraruminal boluses, injectable supplements, or multi-nutrient blocks were analyzed and shown to improve parameters such as days to first service, serum mineral levels, colostrum quality, and fertility. In conclusion, mineral deficiencies negatively affect reproductive and productive efficiency in tropical cattle, and their correction through adapted supplementation improves key zootechnical indicators of the herd.

Keywords: trace minerals, reproduction, production, supplementation.

Prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites (Ascaris suum) in pigs (Sus scrofa domesticus): A review

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Ascariasis is caused by the nematode Ascaris suum and represents one of the most common and harmful parasitic infections in global swine production. This literature review aims to analyze the prevalence of A. suum in pigs (Sus scrofa domesticus) and its implications for animal health and food safety. Information was collected from studies published between 2015 and 2025, using databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. The results show that A. suum is highly prevalent in both intensive and traditional production systems, mainly affecting young pigs and those raised under poor management conditions. In Ecuador, reported prevalence ranges from 8% to 53%, being higher in backyard systems and rural areas. For example, the parasite has been reported in the cantons of Santo Domingo, La Troncal, Pelileo, and Guaranda. The presence of the parasite is associated with clinical signs such as weight loss, anemia, and liver lesions, leading to significant economic losses due to carcass condemnations and decreased productivity. In terms of food safety, this parasite poses a high zoonotic risk as it can complete its life cycle in humans. Other studies suggest that factors such as age, sex, breed, housing type, and sanitary practices are key determinants in the incidence of this parasite. It is concluded that it is necessary to implement control measures, periodic diagnostics, and health education for producers as a strategy to reduce the prevalence of the parasite and ensure sustainable and safe pig production.

Keywords: Veterinary parasitology, helminths, animal health, zoonosis.