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Large whale entanglements are considered a significant threat to populations on a global scale. In the Mexican Pacific and Baja California Peninsula (1996–2021) a total of 218 confirmed entangled whales, from which 99 (45.4%) whales were fully released (66 by the Mexican Whale Disentanglement Network, known as RABEN). Five whale species were reported in confirmed entanglements: humpback (Megaptera novaeangliae, n = 187), gray (Eschrichtius robustus, n = 19), sperm (Physeter macrocephalus, n = 5), Bryde's (Balaenoptera edeni, n = 4), and fin (Balaenoptera physalus, n = 3). Eight types of fishing gear were identified out of 209 different gear sets; gill nets were the most common (n = 101, 48.3%), followed by pots (n = 49, 23.4%). Entanglements were reported in sixteen locations, and Banderas Bay had the most entanglement reports (n = 81, 32.8%). Several entanglements were tracked across multiple locations (n = 7), involving two teams with the most successful releases (n = 5), proving the efficiency of the RABEN entanglement response network. This information can be used to better understand entanglement impacts on large whales in the North Pacific and particularly in Mexico, to work towards mitigation of a problem that affects both whales and fishermen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Livelihoods of communities within the high mountain Natural Protected Area for Flora and Fauna 'Nevado de Toluca' (NPAFFNT) in the central highlands of Mexico have changed due to statuary limitations established in management program respect to agro-silvopastoral activities. In these communities, the small scale farmers who still rely on livestock, mainly sheep production. There is no knowledge on the sustainability, strengths and weaknesses of these systems and the influence of seasons in this area of marked bioclimatic seasonality. Methodology: The IDEA method to assess sustainability was applied in a small village within NPAFFNT in the dry as in the rainy season. Results: Sustainability is limited by the economic scale while their main strengths were in the agroecological scale in both seasons. Indicators show deficiencies in farmer education, lack of technical assistance, poor local infrastructures, lack of access to institutional support programmes, and the revision of norms for the natural protected area. Conclusions and implications: Results are useful for improving the sustainability of these systems that may improve que quality of life of high-mountain communities and provide ecosystemic services relevant for society. Diversification of income sources are of needed given the limitations that the new statute create on livestock and agricultural activities. It is advisable to increase the educational level of the inhabitants and farmers receive specialized technical training in agricultural and sustainable livestock production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Ecosistemas y Recursos Agropecuarios is the property of Universidad Juarez Autonoma de Tabasco and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The SPLASH project (2004–2006) revealed complex population structure and migratory connections, but no regional effort was made along the southern Mexican Pacific coast until dedicated research was initiated in 2010. It is unclear whether humpback whales documented in this region belong to the Mexican or Central American population units. This study aimed to establish the relationship between humpback whales of southern Mexico and those of the surrounding population units. Humpback whale photo‐identification images were compared from multiple locations in north, central, and southern Mexico and Central America. Whales' movements among regions were estimated using the Interchange Index (InI) and the Movement Index (MI). The results showed higher movements among the southern sampling areas, suggesting that whales from southern Mexico belong to the "Central American population unit." This population unit migrates north to the feeding areas of the US West Coast using a migratory corridor along mainland Mexico to the mouth of the Gulf of California along the Baja California Peninsula. The degree of interaction with humpback whales from other population units is unknown. More studies are needed to understand population structure and disentangle photographic capture of whales on migration from whales where this is their main wintering area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The implementation of polyphytic pastures composed of grasses and legumes is an important component of agricultural systems in temperate zones, since grazing pastures which can reduce feed costs--are a viable option for small-scale dairy systems (SSDS). Objective: To evaluate the continuous grazing of dairy cows in Festulolium pastures associated with annual and perennial ryegrass and with clover in two farmrs. Methodology: Two experiments were carried out. The first experiment was established in the municipality of Almoloya of Juárez using eight cows that were divided into two groups of four; the cows grazed on two pastures with Festulolium associated with annual ryegrass and they were fed with 3.6 kg DM/cow/day of commercial concentrate, for 16 weeks. The second experiment was carried out in the Northwest of State of Mexico; six multiparous cows grazed on two pastures, under a cross over design arrangement; one pasture features Festulolium cv Spring Green and the other, annual ryegrass. Milk and body condition ere measured every 3 and 12 d, respectively. Variables from both experiments were analyzed using a split-plot experimental design. Results: Neither experiment recorded significant differences for the net accumulation of forage, the height of the pastures, and their chemical composition (P=0.05). No significant differences between treatments (P=0.05) were recorded regarding the yields and chemical composition of the milk. Study Limitations/Implications: The study of mixed pastures can be an alternative for feeding grazing cows, helping to reduce costs in SSDS. Findings/Conclusions: Festulolium/annual ryegrass pastures with white clover are a viable forage alternative for small-scale dairy systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cattle production in agrosilvopastoral systems (ASPS) in the dry tropical regions of Mexico relies on forages under extensive management with limited supplementation. Information about the botanical composition of the diet (BCD) and the contribution of available forages in ASPS to cattle is scarce. The objectives of the study were to determine the BCD of lactating Brown Swiss cows, grazing on an ASPS during the dry and rainy seasons in a dry subtropical region of Mexico, and to determine the contribution of forage species to the cows dry matter intake (kg/day), crude protein (CP) (kg/day) and metabolizable energy (ME) (MJ/day) requirements. Fifteen lactating cows were monthly monitored for one year to determine the BCD by microhistological analysis, as well as its productive performance. A mixed procedure of SAS was used to determine the effects of the season as a fixed effect and cow as a random effect on animal productive performance and BCD variables. The forages in the BCD were grouped as grasses, herbaceous and woody species. During the dry season grass and woody groups represented 84.2 and 15.7% of the BCD, whereas in the rainy season grass, herbaceous and woody groups represented 57.6, 26.6, and 7.4% of the BCD, respectively. During the dry season grass and herbaceous groups contributed with 64% of the cows nutritional requirements. Whereas during the rainy season grass, herbaceous and woody groups contribution to the cows nutritional requirements was 87%. It is concluded that grass, herbaceous and woody groups contributed to DMI, CP and ME to the requirements of lactating cows grazing on an agrosilvopastoral system with seasonal differences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Colombiana de Ciencias Pecuarias is the property of Universidad de Antioquia and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Small-grain cereals with characteristics of hardiness of, such as barley have been evaluated as conserved forage for cows in small-scale dairy systems (SSDSs); but barley may also be grazed due to its regrowth capability after defoliation. The objective was to assess grazing of barley at 59 (B59), 66 (B66) and 73 (B73) days after seeding with milking cows in SSDSs. Twelve Holstein cows were grouped in a randomised 3 × 3 Latin Square design, replicated four times, with 14-day experimental periods. Measurements of animal variables and collection of feed and milk samples took place over the 4 final days of each period. A partial cost analysis was performed including only feeding expenses. The mean net forage accumulation during the experiment was 97.1 kg DM d−1. The botanical composition was affected by secondary vegetation (Mexican aster and wild radish, among others), where barley content was higher in B73 than in B66 and B59 pastures. The contents of dry matter (189–414 g·kg), neutral detergent fibre (NDF; 456–585 g·kg/DM), acid detergent fibre (ADF; 181–265 g·kg/DM) and crude protein (CP; 86–158 g·kg/DM) showed significant (p < 0.05) interactions among periods and pastures. Milk yield (MY) was 6.5% higher for treatment B66 (18.7 kg) in relation to B59 (17.5 kg), with intermediate values for B73 (18.1 kg). Feeding cost per kg milk was significantly lower in treatments B66 than B59 (p <.05), increasing the profit margins. It is concluded that grazed barley is a viable forage option for SSDSs. Initiating grazing of barley at 66 days post-sowing had a better cow performance than grazing at 59 d, with higher margins over feeding costs. The three treatments proved economically viable, with income/feeding costs ratios above 3.00. Feeding strategies with small grain cereals (barley) represent a feeding alternative for small-scale dairy farmers. The implementation of barley grazing in small-scale milk production systems is an option given the low rainfall. Barley, as a short cycle crop, allows dairy farmers to obtain good quality forage to feed their cows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Carry out an exploratory evaluation of sheep and goats grazing in a temperate pasture invaded by Senecio inaequidens, as a means of biological control of weeds in small-scale dairy systems (SSDS). Methodology: Crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fibre (NDF), and acid detergent fibre (ADF) were determined on pasture and Senecio samples. The effect of grazing by sheep and goats on the pasture was assessed by means of the height, density and soil cover of Senecio, and also sward height; and the live weight of the animals, daily weight gain and body condition score were recorded. Statistical analysis was by a 2×2 factorial design, with species (sheep or goat) and two grazing intensities at 28.3 or 50.3 m²/animal per day. Results: height, coverage and density of Senecio did not show significant differences (P>0.05), neither did sward height. The chemical composition of the pasture did not show statistically significant differences for the assessed periods either. Animal weight, body condition and daily weight gain did not show significant differences among the evaluated treatments (P>0.05). Implications: This is the first report evaluating sheep and goat grazing to control of Senecio invasion in temperate pasture in central Mexico. In addition, knowing the chemical quality of Senecio will allow decisions to be made for supplementation in grazing systems with sheep or goats. Conclusions: The grazing of sheep and goats reduced the number of Senecio plants in the assessed pasture, which indicates the possibility of controlling this weed by grazing sheep or goats over longer-term grazing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To evaluate the botanical composition of grasslands of kikuyu (Cenchrus clandestinus) compared to tall fescue (Lolium arundinaceum cv. Cajun II), each one in association with white clover (Trifolium repens cv. Ladino), in two independent experiments conducted during two seasons, autumn 2018 and winter 2019. Methodology. Two independent experiments under small-scale milk production system (SMPS) were established in the municipality of Aculco, State of Mexico, during autumn 2018 and winter 2019. The botanical composition of grasslands under intensive continuous grazing by breeding cows was evaluated. One grassland planted with tall fescue cv. Cajun II and the other invaded by kikuyu; each grassland was associated with white clover cv. Ladino. The botanical composition of both experiments was analyzed using a complete randomized experimental design. Results. The kikuyu grassland recorded significant differences (p<0.05) with a higher proportion of forage during the winter 2018. Whereas the tall fescue cv. Cajun II grassland recorded a proportion of forage (p<0.05) higher than its proportion of dead tissue during autumn 2019. Study Implications: The study of the botanical composition of mixed grasslands destined for livestock grazing allows to identify, propose and define strategies for forage production facing agroclimatic and management conditions in order to generate a better and higher forage yield. Conclusions: The proportion of kikuyu was higher than that of tall fescue cv. Cajun II during the two seasons and years evaluated. This highlights the adaptability of kikuyu grass under agroecological conditions such as the absence of rains and high temperatures, coupled with the high stocking densities of the milk production systems in the study region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to analyze the role of small-scale dairy farms in central Mexico in combating rural poverty from a gender perspective. Specifically, it was determined whether these production systems generated sufficient income for alleviating poverty and purchasing the basic food basket. Two hundred and twelve farmers were selected through snowball sampling. To maintain a gender perspective, female-headed farms were considered as an independent group, and male-headed farms were grouped according to multivariate statistics. Two official indicators of poverty were considered in the economic analysis: income and the extreme poverty line. Factor analysis identified four factors that explained 66.10% of accumulated variance. The cluster analysis identified five groups of farms headed by males. Then, a comparative analysis was carried out for the six groups, including the female-headed group (FG). The economic analysis revealed that, if 52% of income are production costs, groups 1, 2, 3, and 4 generated sufficient gross income to purchase the basic food basket to the household of the area. However, the FG and group 5 did not generate sufficient gross income to purchase the food basket. In contrast, if 70% of income are productions costs, only groups 1 and 4 generated sufficient gross income. It can be concluded that small-scale dairy farms generate sufficient daily income under certain conditions for the purchase of the basic food basket and, therefore, help to fight poverty in rural families, especially in groups 1 and 4. In the case of the FG and groups 2, 3, and 5, dairy production along with the diversification of productive activities and backyard activities supports the livelihoods of rural families. It is recommended that existing gender norms be further explored because these could directly influence the motivation of farmers, particularly female producers, to adopt or reject agricultural and livestock technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The economic hardship of dairy producers has worsened in the last decade because of increasing costs of production. A field survey with 51 dairy farmers was conducted to explore strategies to mitigate economic hardship. Factor and cluster analyses were conducted to characterize the farmers and their farms. Differences among groups regarding changes adopted to increase incomes, to reduce costs, and to pay bills were tested using Fisher's exact test. Four factors explained 76.2% of the cumulative variance and four groups were identified: "stagnant farms" were in group 1, with the lowest daily income over concentrate feed cost (DIOCFC) and the least number of changes, "effectively management farms" were in group 2, with the highest DIOCFC and the highest number of income-increasing changes, the "cost reducing farms" were in group 3, with the smallest in size with a focus on cutting cost, and the "mixed strategy farms" were in group 4, with the largest herd size. Most prevalent income-increasing strategies included attempts to improve cow nutritional balance and milk composition, whereas the most prevalent cost-reducing strategies included reductions in input purchases of inputs (concentrates and fertilizers) and selected household expenses. Selling cows was a common strategy to generate cash in acute hardship situations. In conclusion, responses to economic hardship varied substantially among groups of farms, cost-reducing strategies were linked to lower cow productivity and lower technological levels, but income-increasing strategies were linked to higher cow productivity and higher DIOCFC. Our findings may contribute to the design of extension initiatives to promote useful strategies to help mitigate economic hardship on dairy farms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small-scale dairy systems ameliorate poverty and contribute to rural development. The dry season generates feed scarcity, and farmers must develop strategies based on quality forage to reduce purchased inputs. The objective was to assess the performance of dairy cows grazing perennial ryegrass or tall fescue pastures both associated with white clover complemented with triticale (X. Triticosecale Witt.) hay during the dry season, as well as the agronomic and chemical composition of pastures and complements. An on-farm experiment was undertaken with a 4x4 Latin Square design with a factorial arrangement, using four Holstein cows. Treatments were TFH= Tall fescue with white clover + 3.0 kg dry matter(DM)/cow/day of triticale hay, RGH= Perennial ryegrass with white clover + 3 kg DM/cow/day of triticale hay, RGNH= Perennial ryegrass with white clover (no hay), and TFNH= Tall fescue with white clover (no hay). Grazing was for 8 h/day in two pastures (ryegrass and tall fescue) of 0.83 ha each, and cows received 4.45 kg DM of concentrate/cow/day. There were no significant differences (P>0.05) in sward height or net herbage accumulation. Contents of dry matter, crude protein, NDF and ADF, as well as the digestibility of organic matter and metabolizable energy were similar between pastures (P>0.05). There were no differences (P>0.05) among treatments for any productive performance variables, but there were statistical differences for estimated herbage intake (P<0.05). Conclusion was that complementing 3.0 kg DM of triticale hay/cow/day did not show any significant effect on any of the evaluated variables but could reduce grazing pressure in pastures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most sheep production systems are based on grazing medium to low quality grasslands, with or without supplements. In tropical areas, the inclusion of legume shrubs and trees like Leucaena (Leucaena leucocephala) in silvopastoral systems associated with grassland are an alternative to improve their productivity. An efficient way to test the impact of these innovations is by simulation models. Therefore, the objective was to validate the Pampa Corte model developed in Brazil adapted to sheep growth under Mexican conditions to simulate the effect of the inclusion of Leucaena in a silvopastoral system based on Guinea grass (Megathyrsus maximus cv. Tanzania). Three scenarios were simulated, T1 = 100% Guinea grass, T2= 80% Guinea grass + 20% Leucaena, and T3= 60% Guinea grass and 40% Leucaena on a dry matter basis. Validation of the model was with data from a previous experiment on lamb growth fed a total mixed ration. Evaluation was from lineal regressions of simulated results over observed data. Results showed a coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.94 between observed and estimated figures. The simulation model also showed that as the proportion of Leucaena increases in the silvopastoral system, the daily live weight gain (DWG) also increases. The model provided good results for lamb growth in silvopastoral systems based on Guinea grass with the inclusion of Leucaena and validated with data from feedlot lambs fed a total mixed ration, both for extensive silvopastoral systems with 20% Leucanea as for intensive silvopastoral systems with up to 40% of Leucaena inclusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small-scale dairy systems are an option to ameliorate rural poverty in developing countries. These systems need to enhance their productivity through improved feeding strategies. The objective was to assess in a participatory on-farm experiment the effect on dairy cow performance of the inclusion of sunflower silage (SFS) with maize silage (MSL) during the dry season in three treatments: T1= 100% MSL, T2= 50% MSL/50% SFS, and T3= 75% MSL/25% SFS. Cows grazed 8 h/day, received 6.8 kg DM/cow/day of silage treatments, and 4.6 kg DM/cow/day of commercial concentrate (as decided by the collaborating farmer). Design was a 3x3 Latin Square replicated three times with nine Holstein cows, and 14-day experimental periods. Analysed variables were milk yield and composition, live weight and body condition score; as well as chemical composition of feeds and feeding costs. There were significant differences with a higher milk yield and higher milk fat content in T2 than T1 with intermediate values for T3; but no significant differences for protein (mean 31.4 ± 6.1 g/kg), lactose (45.1 ± 3.4 g/kg), pH (6.5 ± 0.16) or milk urea nitrogen (10.5 ± 0.81mg/dL). There were highly significant differences in live weight with T3 recording a lower live weight than T1 or T2, but no differences between treatments for body condition score (mean 2.3). Feeding costs were lowest for T2 and highest for T1. The inclusion of SFS at 50% with MSL to complement grazing dairy cows of moderate milk yields is an alternative to increase milk yields and income in small-scale dairy systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To build mathematical models to evaluate the social sustainability of small-scale milk production systems. Design/Methodology/Approach Thirty small-scale cowsheds were analyzed. Two models were built using multivariate regression, estimated with ordinary least squares and considering the factors that producers perceive as important for social sustainability. Results The first model (ER) included tangible variables and the second intangible variables (SR). Both models explained more than 80% of the variables associated with social sustainability. Study Limitations/Implications The results represent an effort to link the statistical analysis with qualitative data that is difficult to quantify. Conclusions The ER and SR models represent a proposal for counting immaterial indicators so they can be incorporated into the sustainability analysis. Both models could be a methodological proposal to connect statistical data with purely qualitative data such as perception. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the study was to characterize small-scale dairy production systems to identify the technological preferences according to the farmer and farm characteristics and to analyze the importance and role of the information communication technologies (ICTs) in the dissemination of information related to management and livestock activities. To collect the data, a survey was applied to 170 small-scale dairy farmers from central Mexico. To characterize the farms, a factor analysis (FA) and cluster analysis (CA) were performed. To compare and identify differences between groups, a Kruskal–Wallis test was conducted. Four factors that explain 70.93% of the accumulated variance were identified; these factors explain the use of technology, production characteristics, social connections, and use of ICTs. The cluster analysis identified four groups. Group 1 was integrated by farmers with more experience and the largest farms. Group 2 had higher studies and use of ICTs. Group 3 was formed by young farmers but had a low use of technology. Group 4 contained older farmers with a low use of technology. The young farmers with higher studies have begun to incorporate ICTs into their daily activities on the farm, as observed in Group 2. Smartphones were the most used and were considered important by the farmers of the four groups, since they enable interaction with other farmers and the dissemination of topics of interest related with the farm. In conclusion, four group of farmers were differentiated; therefore, different extension approaches should be implemented to take into account the preferences and the technologies considered most important for each group. The ICTs are emerging technologies among small-scale dairy farmers to communicate information related to livestock management, mainly by young farmers with studies of secondary, as observed in Group 2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Canadian Journal of Animal Science is the property of Canadian Science Publishing and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Agrosilvopastoral systems that integrate crops, pastures, trees and shrubs are seen as a way forward to meet future needs for food, feed, fuel, and other products, as well as for providing environmental and social benefits. Cattle production systems in the tropical and subtropical areas of Mexico have a dual-purpose (milk and beef) objective in agrosilvopastoral systems that need to improve the production of goods, as well as non-productive outputs like environmental services, enhancing their sustainability. The aim of this study was to characterise the socioeconomic, and productive characteristics of dual purpose farms based on agrosilvopastoral systems (ASPS), in a subtropical region in the southern highlands of central Mexico, to contribute in the understanding of how these ASPS operate and their differences. Forty-seven farmers answered a semi-structured questionnaire to identify aspects of farm management, structure, and land use; as well as technical and economic aspects. Information was analysed using factorial analysis of principal components, in order to reduce information, and subsequently cluster analysis that included nine variables resulting into four groups of farms differentiated by structure, size, management and productive orientation. Productive orientation of the farms was from the activity from which farms obtained most of their incomes. The four groups were beef production oriented (BPO) 46.81%, milk production oriented (MPO) 23.40%, pure breed weaned calves (PBWC) 17.02%, and traditional dual-purpose (TDP) 12.77%. Characterization of agrosilvopastoral farms identified main differences and characteristics, as well as the presence and use of trees and shrubs by farmers and cattle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Grass shrimps Palaemon mundusnovus, P. pugio and P. vulgaris sympatrically inhabit in the Laguna Madre, Mexico. They exhibit very close morphological similarity and overlap in their diagnostic characteristics, which has hindered certainty in their identification and has raised doubt regarding their taxonomic validity. In this work, we analyse intra‐ and interspecific morphometric and meristic variability through a multivariate analysis, and we determine the molecular variation using mitochondrial sequences of the 12S, 16S and COX1 genes to confirm the validity of the three taxa as having distinct lineages or to recognize a smaller number of species with phenotypic plasticity. Our results corroborate the taxonomic validity of the three species; however, there is intraspecific plasticity, interspecific overlap of characteristics and greater morphological and molecular similarity between the species P. mundusnovus and P. pugio, whereas P. vulgaris was better delimited. These species form a monophyletic group but the phylogenetic relationship obtained is discussed. Telson length was the primary variable in the principal components analysis, whereas the length of the propodus of the second pereiopod was the best discriminant. The range of variation reported in the characteristics linked to the rostrum is extended, and its influence on the separation of these species is recognized. The joint application of multivariate analysis from morphological variables and molecular tools is recommended to clarify the taxonomic status of species featuring close morphological similarity and sympatric distribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Identify the knowledge on the characteristics related to the consumption of faba beans considered by housewives and the frequency of consumption, the most consumed dishes and the cooking appliances used in the preparation in the households of Puebla and Tlaxcala, Mexico. Methodology: In order to generate information a survey was used by applying a questionnaire to 50 housewives questionnaire to 50 housewives who prepare dishes with faba bean. The data was analyzed using frequencies, principal components and clusters, using SPSS program. Results: The characteristics considered by the housewives were divided into six principal components: Component I: Integrated characters related to dishes for preparing, major seasonal consumption and grain characteristics. Component II: Considered attributes related to fuel source and discomfort stomach. Component III: Related to the form of consumption, the amount of water to be used and the hardness of the testa. Component IV: Showed the type of cooking appliances used for cooking. Component V: Included the cooking time of the grain. Component VI: Was related to the frequency of consumption. As a result, of the use of the characters, significant diversity of varieties of faba bean has been generated with different expressions of the characters used to cook the different dishes, this resulted in 11 groups of varieties with differentiated characters. A 56% of the interviewed housewives consume faba beans once a month and only 2% consume them twice a week. The season of major consumption is during the Lent. The most used fuel for faba bean cooking is propane gas, the most used cooking appliance is the mud pot and the most consumed dishes are shrimp cakes with beans and faba bean soup. Limitations: No more agronomic and crop management characteristics were identified that could be considered in faba bean consumption, because housewives have a limited participation in these aspects. Conclusions: Housewives have developed knowledge to prepare and consume faba beans in different ways, contributing to their diet and this have influenced the culinary diversity expressed by the different cultivated varieties of faba bean. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Biológico Agropecuaria Tuxpan is the property of Revista Biologico Agropecuaria Tuxpan and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Highlights • An experimental model validated on site for MGT-C200 is presented. • An integrated model of MGT with CO 2 capture unit was evaluated in situ. • Levelized cost of electricity for an experimental MGT using EGR with CO 2 capture was determined. • Use of 40% EGR on a microturbine was found to decrease the thermal energy demand by 5% for a reboiler in situ (Cuernavaca). • Thermal energy recovery by thermal oil was found to satisfy the thermal requirement for amine regeneration in the reboiler. Abstract The effect on the Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE) by implementing CO 2 capture on a 200 kW microturbine installed at the National Institute of Electricity and Clean Energies (Spanish acronym INEEL) was evaluated. Increasing the CO 2 concentration in exhaust gas is a potentially effective method to reduce the high electrical efficiency penalty caused by using the capture system with chemical absorption. In this paper the LCOE achieved with and without Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) of CO 2 were compared. Data obtained in experimental tests of the microturbine operating with diesel as fuel on-site were used to validate the simulated performance in Thermoflex, since there is currently no existing natural gas infrastructure. It was assumed that the performance would be similar to the manufacturer's data, although for each fuel the combustor was different. Natural Gas was used in the simulation at 100% load. The CO 2 capture plant was simulated using Aspen Hysys with MEA as the solvent at 90% capture of CO 2 and 90% purity. Simulations helped to size the equipment and calculate the investment cost of the CO 2 capture and EGR systems. The LCOE was compared for CO 2 capture and an EGR system at different ratios, showing that the use of EGR with a small scale capture system reduces the LCOE, while reduces the heat duty in the reboiler due to the increase of CO 2 in exhaust gases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This research evaluates the integration of solar-assisted post-combustion carbon capture into an experimental cogeneration system. A cogeneration system modelled in Thermoflex 25® that includes a 200 kW Capstone microturbine coupled with a thermal oil recovery system was installed at the National Institute of Electricity and Clean Energies (INEEL). Three optimized systems were considered for the economic analysis, namely: a microturbine cogeneration system (COGEN), a microturbine cogeneration system with post-combustion carbon capture plant (COGEN-CCS) and a microturbine cogeneration system with solar-assisted post-combustion carbon capture (COGEN-CCS + SOLAR). The cogeneration system was modelled using Natural Gas (NG) as fuel, applying characteristics typical of Mexico, to obtain the composition of exhaust gas (EG), and thus simulate the CO 2 capture system in Aspen Hysys V8.6® using monoethanolamine (MEA) as solvent. Results show that the implementation of CCS results in a sizeable increase in the Levelized Cost Of Electricity (LCOE) (approximately 86%) with near-zero emissions and without the possibility of supplying energy to the process. In addition COGEN-CCS + SOLAR improves overall system performance. CO 2 emissions per kilowatt increased by 0.2% with regard to COGEN-CCS, while the LCOE increased by 230% compared to the COGEN case, with near-zero emissions. The use of solar energy would help increase the cogeneration efficiency when coupled with CO 2 capture. Highlights • Integrating renewable sources into systems supplied by fossil fuels is discussed. • Solar energy use in cogeneration systems helps increase thermal energy availability. • Mexico is one of the top locations in the world for potential use of solar energy. • Solar energy integration to reduce the energy penalty imposed by the use of CO 2 capture. • Levelized cost of electricity for an experimental cogeneration system is determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective was to evaluate the provision of oat silage (Avena sativa) to supplement grazing dairy cows on pastures of perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne), festulolium (Lolium multiflorum × Festuca pratense) and white clover (Trifolium repens) during the dry season when pasture growth is limited. The experimental design was a 3 × 3 Latin square replicated three times, with nine milking Holstein cows (mean live weight 496.2 ± 33.6 kg and daily milk yield 14.8 ± 2.8 kg cow−1) under on-farm participatory rural research. Experimental periods were 14 d. Simulated grazing samples of pasture herbage were analysed for chemical composition, sward height recorded and net herbage accumulation determined from exclusion cages. Treatments were the inclusion of oat silage at T0 = 0 kg DM cow−1 d−1 of oat silage, T3 = 3 kg DM cow−1 d−1 of oat silage, and T6 = 6 kg DM cow−1 d−1 of oat silage, plus 5.0 kg fresh weight commercial concentrate and 9 h of continuous grazing. Animal variables were milk yield and composition, live weight and body condition score. Feeding costs were calculated. Mean milk yield was 18.9 ± 0.27 kg cow−1 d−1 with no differences in animal variables (p > 0.05), but feeding costs per kilogram milk increased 25% for T3 and 50% for T6. Oat silage supplementation is only viable under difficult grazing conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective was to assess the effect of different access times to pasture of grazing dairy cows on milk yield and fatty acid (FA) profile. Six multiparous Holstein cows were used in a repeated 3×3 Latin Square design. Treatments were 1) Eight hours of grazing (8h), 2) Eight hours of grazing divided in two periods (4+4h), and 3) Twelve hours of grazing (12h). Cows were fed maize silage and concentrate when confined in a free pen. There was no effect (P>0.05) on milk FA profile between 8h and 4+4h treatments. The 12h treatment showed a higher (P<0.05) concentration of rumenic acid (C18:2 c9t11) and higher total polyunsaturated FA in milk than milk from the other treatments. Cows grazing 8h and 4+4h had 36.3 and 27.9% higher (P<0.05) intake of maize silage compared to cows grazing 12h, but total DM intake was not affected (17.3 ± 1.9; P>0.05). There were no differences (P>0.05) in milk yield and chemical composition with different access times to pasture. The conclusion is that allowing 12h of grazing to dairy cows increased the concentration of C18:2 c9t11 in milk without affecting milk yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Neurophobia is the fear of neurosciences and neurology due to an inability to apply knowledge of basic science to clinical scenarios. Neurology is found difficult among medical students. We compared the perception of neurology with other seven major medical disciplines and analysed the cause of neurophobia among mexican medical students. Methods: We supplied questionnaires among third to sixth year medical students from the National University of Mexico. We evaluated difficulty, knowledge, confidence and interest in neurology compared to other disciplines; we asked why they found neurology difficult to learn and a solution to this problem. Results: 252 questionnaires were completed. Neurology was perceived as: the most difficult subject (p<0.05) and the one with the least knowledge (p<0.05). Neurology was considered difficult due to the complexity of neuroanatomy. Participants suggested neurology teaching might improve with the early integration of clinical and basic sciences. Conclusion: Despite the sizeof thesample,the pattern matcheswith studies previously published. Neurological disorders are emerging as important causes of morbidity and mortality. It is important to identify the contributing factors of neurophobia and correct them so physicians will be able to properly treat these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pelagic Sargassum spp. (Sargassum) blooms in the tropical Atlantic began in 2011. Since then, frequent and significant beaching events have caused ecological, economic, and human-health-related problems in over 30 countries. On the Mexican Caribbean coast, massive beaching events began in late 2014 and, since 2018, have occurred annually, with high-volume landings lasting from five to seven months. This study analyzes data on Sargassum cleanup costs done by three municipalities (Puerto Morelos, Solidaridad, and Tulum) and five hotels between Tulum and Cancun. The annual harvested volumes ranged from 10,105–40,932 m3 per kilometer, resulting in US$ 0.3–1.1 M cleanup costs per kilometer. The prices of cleaning one cubic meter of Sargassum ranged from US$: 19–85. The expenses were influenced by cleanup management strategies rather than beach cast volumes. Hotels were more cost-effective than municipalities. For the city of Puerto Morelos, we additionally calculated the yearly and monthly cleanup costs using the mean per-unit price obtained from hotels within this municipality (US$ 27 per m3) and the Sargassum volumes removed monthly from the beach by 14 hotels during 2018, 2019, 2021, and 2022. The costs per kilometer for this municipality ranged from 0.8 to 1.5 M in years (Mean: 1.0 M) and US$ 10,186–100,446 over months, with mean values greater than US$ 70,000 from May to August. The data provided here can help governments and hotels to anticipate cleanup costs for forecasting purposes and industries interested in valorizing Sargassum. • Massive pelagic Sargassum landings in tropical Atlantic countries began in 2011. • Sargassum decomposition results in ecological and socioeconomic impacts. • In Mexico the costs of harvesting one cubic meter of Sargassum ranged from US$: 19-85. • Annual cleanup costs per beach kilometer went from US$: 0.3–1.5 million. • Monthly cleanup costs per kilometer ranged from US$ 10,186–100,446. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A sustainability evaluation was undertaken with 22 smallholder dairy farms in the highlands of Mexico; following the IDEA method in the agroecological, socioterritorial, and economic scales (all scales are out of 100). Sustainability was highest for the agroecological scale (59/100), intermediate for the socioterritorial scale (53/100), and lowest on the economic scale (43/100). The sustainability of a farm is the lowest score of the three scales. In most farms, the lowest was the economic scale. A cluster analysis led to the identification of five distinct groups: Cluster 1 defined two farms not related to others, cluster 2 farms (4) were those with high agroecological scores, cluster 3 farms (8) were most representative of the area, cluster 4 included two farms with low socioterritorial and economic sustainability scores, and cluster 5 was made up of the remaining six farms with the highest economic sustainability score, but limited by the agroecological and socioterritorial scales. In all farms, there is a high reliance on bought-in inputs. Therefore, given the limited resources of these systems, the better option is to limit the number of cows to those that can be fed mostly with the production of the farm, which increases the economic sustainability. The IDEA method is a useful tool for sustainability assessment of small-scale dairy systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context. We study the peculiar interacting galaxy system of VCC 1249/M 49 located in the core of the Virgo B subcluster. Owing to a recent interaction between the dwarf galaxy VCC 1249 and the halo gas of the elliptical galaxy M 49, neutral hydrogen has been displaced from the interstellar medium of this dwarf into the Virgo intracluster medium. Observations also reveal multiple compact star-forming regions (aka H ii regions) that are embedded in this H i cloud, with a projected separation up to 13 kpc from VCC 1249 in the northwest direction. Aims. Motivated by recent near-ultraviolet imaging from the GALEX Ultraviolet Virgo Cluster Survey (GUViCS) of the VCC 1249/M 49 system that shows significant ongoing/recent star formation in the compact regions, we aim to constrain the origin of these outlying H II regions with a multi-wavelength approach. Methods. Using deep optical (u,g,i,z) imaging from the Next Generation Virgo Cluster Survey (NGVS) and new Hα imaging obtained at the San Pedro Martir observatory together with Keck long-slit spectroscopy, we characterize the star formation rates, ages, and metallicity of VCC 1249 and its outlying compact regions. Moreover, we analyze the color and luminosity profile of the galaxy to investigate its recent interaction with M 49. Results. Our new observations indicate that VCC 1249 underwent a recent interaction with M 49 in which both ram-pressure stripping and tidal interaction occured. The joint action of the two mechanisms led to the removal of the H I gas from the interstellar medium of VCC 1249, while the gravitational tides triggered the stellar tail and counter-tail of VCC 1249. Our stellar population synthesis analysis reveals that the star formation in this galaxy was truncated around 200 Myr ago and that the outlying H II regions were born in situ ≈10 Myr ago out of pre-enriched gas removed from the dwarf galaxy. These observations also reveal that interactions between central and satellite galaxies similar to those between VCC 1249/M 49 may be an effective way of dispersing metals into the halos of massive galaxies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mammillaria cielensis (cactaceae), a new species of cactaceae from "el cielo" Biosphere reserve (RBC) in tamaulipas, mexico, is described and illustrated. The new species is similar to M. zublerae repp., differing from this species in the size of the stem, the rounded form of the apex, the smaller tubercles, the areoles with white wool, the more numerous and somewhat shorter radial and central spines, the colour and size of the fruits, the shinier and larger seeds, with heavily pitted and slightly reticulate testa, and larger hilum. Its known distribution is restricted to pine oak forest in the RBC, in the southern part of the state of tamaulipas, mexico. a comparison with related species is presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A field study was conducted in order to study the effects of different wildfire severities on [1] soil organic matter content, [2] soil water repellency, and [3] aggregate stability; [4] the distribution of soil water repellency in aggregate sieve fractions (1–2, 0.5–1, 0.25–0.5 and <0.25mm) was also studied. Five similar burned sites and two long-unburned control sites were selected under mixed fir and pine forests in volcanic highlands from Michoacán, Mexico. Soil water repellency was observed in soil samples from all sites, although changes were influenced by fire severity. Sites affected by low severity fires did not show important changes in burned soils in comparison with controls, while high severity fires caused different responses: water repellency was increased or destroyed probably due to temperatures below or above 200–250°C during burning. The degree of wettability/repellency from the fine earth fraction of burned soils seems to be conditioned by <0.5mm aggregates, more than coarser aggregates which always showed a higher degree of wettability. It is suggested that destruction of organic matter during burning occurs principally in coarse aggregates, where combustion can be more intense. Aggregate stability (measured using pre-wetted aggregates between 4 and 4.8mm) did not change under low severity burning but it was considerably reduced in the case of a high fire severity. Losses of organic matter and destruction of water repellency seem to be the reasons for that reduction in this type of soil in contrast to previous studies, where aggregate stability increased after burning. Changes in both properties (water repellency and aggregate stability) are expected to induce modifications in runoff and soil loss rates at the hillslope scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Little is known on the hydrological behavior of the volcanic ash soils, which are characterized by extremely high porosities and hydraulic conductivities. In this study the occurrence and hydrological effects of water repellency were investigated at a plot scale for different types of land use and volcanic soils in Mexican volcanic highlands from Michoacan, Mexico: [1] fir, pine and oak mixed forest soils developed from lavas, [2] soils developed from volcanic ashes and pyroclastic sediments under sparse fir, pine and oak forest and shrubland, [3] pine and oak forested soils developed from lavas and pyroclastic sediments, and [4] bare soils on recent ash sediments in plain surfaces. Soil water repellency was assessed using the water drop penetration time test and rainfall simulations were performed on circular plots (50 cm in diameter) during 30 min and at an intensity of 90 mm h−1 in order to study the hydrological response of each area. The return period for storms with a similar intensity in the area is 10 years. The shape and depth of the wetting front after simulated rainfall was also analyzed. Soil water repellency showed a high variability among the different studied zones. Organic matter content, soil texture and acidity were the most important factors for developing hydrophobicity. A wide range of soil water repellency classes (hydrophilic to severely water-repellent soils) has been found in soils under dense fir, pine and oak mixed forests or shrubland, while inexistent or slight water repellency has been observed in soils under sparse forest or at bare ash-covered areas. At a plot scale, marked differences in the hydrological behavior of the studied land use and soil zones were observed after the rainfall simulations. Soil water repellency contributes to fast ponding and runoff generation during the first stages of rainstorms. Runoff was enhanced in water-repellent forested soils (average runoff coefficients between 15.7 and 19.9%), in contrast to hydrophilic or slightly water-repellent soils, where runoff rates were lower (between 1.0 and 11.7%). Shallow and irregular wetting fronts were observed at water-repellent zones, reducing the soil water storage capacity. The implications of soil water repellency in soil hydrology and erosion risk in the area shed light on the soil hydrology of the studied ecosystems, and can contribute to develop better management policies. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Adolescence is a phase of exposure to several risk behaviors, especially the experimental use of drugs and its associated problems. The study aims to identify risk factors and drug use among secondary students in Comonfort, Guanajuato, Mexico. This is a cross-sectional study, using a version of the Drug User Screening Inventory (DUSI) adapted from Portuguese to Spanish. The sample was composed of 695 (42.9%) students, 52.8% women. Drug use was present in 20.3%, predominantly alcohol and tobacco. Risk factors are related to the male gender, older than 13 years, second and third grades, living with relatives, poor relationships, curiosity, family conflicts, peer pressure and solidarity. Conclusion: alcohol and tobacco are the most used drugs and are associated to curiosity and peer pressure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small-scale dairy farming has been suggested as a rural development option for Mexican campesino communities. However, there is a lack of information on how dairy farming systems operate. The objective of this paper is to analyse the social, productive and economic characteristics of small-scale dairy production systems in the central highlands in the northwest of the State of Mexico. These three characteristics were analysed on 69 farms using factor and cluster analysis. Five factors accounted for 68% of cumulative variance. Cluster analysis yielded three well-defined groups. A Kruskal–Wallis test was performed on the arable land area and the number of animals, and analysis of variance for milk yield. Economic analysis was undertaken using activity budgets. Results showed the relationships between scale and management methods and their effects on the income for the family. Families in only one of the three groups receive incomes from dairying that were above all Mexican poverty indices. This outcome is explained by the intensification in the management of their herds, which is reflected in higher milk yields, higher incomes and better access to government support schemes. Enhancement of milk production in the area studied needs differential policies which take in to account differences between the groups identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Livestock agrodiversity of Mazahua smallholder ‘campesino’ systems in the highlands of Central Mexico was investigated in the villages of San PabloTlalchichilpa (SPT) and La Concepción Mayorazgo (LCM). An animal inventory of 142 households in the two villages was made, followed by the monthly monitoring of 25 households through interviews and participant observation. Thirteen species of domestic animals were found, with a median of three species per farm. The main species werechickens, donkeys, sheep, cattle, mules, and horses, with some also keeping rabbits, ducks, and pigeons. Draught animals are fundamental. Poultry represents a dynamic asset that provides food, income, and short-term savings. Sheep are medium-term savings, and providestability. Livestock are managed in interaction with crops, providing draught force, manure, and cash, and receiving feed. Livestock are fed weeds of the maize crop and stover dring the dry season. Donkeys and sheep are also grazed on common land and in the fields after harvest. High prices for sheep have meant more flocks with possible detrimental environmental effects. Men usually own the draught animals, although anyone may own animals. Women are commonly owners of small stock and receive animals as wedding presents or inheritance. Other arrangements include shared ownership and borrowing. Livestock and produce may be traded in regional markets but are generally sold locally., Campesinos are aware of unfavorable local terms, but reckon possible benefits do not warrant increased transportation costs and time. The villagers say their animals allow them to meet their needs and remain in their villages while improving their livelihoods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mangrove forests have declined worldwide and understanding the key drivers of regeneration at different perturbation levels can help manage and preserve these critical ecosystems. For example, the Ramsar site # 1602, located at the Tampamachoco lagoon, Veracruz, México, consists of a dense forest of medium-sized trees composed of three mangrove species. Due to several human activities, including the construction of a power plant around the 1990s, an area of approximately 2.3 km2 has suffered differential levels of perturbation: complete mortality, partial tree loss (divided into two sections: main and isolated patch), and apparently undisturbed sites. The number and size of trees, from seedlings to adults, were measured using transects and quadrats. With a matrix of the abundance of trees by size categories and species, an ordination (nMDS) showed three distinct groups corresponding to the degree of perturbation. Projection matrices based on the size structure of Avicennia germinans showed transition probabilities that varied according to perturbation levels. Lambda showed growing populations except on the zone that showed partial tree loss; a relatively high abundance of seedlings is not enough to ensure stable mangrove dynamics or start regeneration; and the survival of young trees and adult trees showed high sensitivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Worldwide, false killer whales (Pseudorca crassidens) are infrequently encountered, yet long-term studies have shown strong site fidelity as well as long-term associations among individuals in several locations. Detailed studies of this species have primarily been conducted around tropical oceanic islands or in the subtropical southern hemisphere. Objectives: We assess movements and association patterns among false killer whales along the Pacific coasts of the USA, Mexico, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Costa Rica including Isla del Coco, and Panama, representing one of the longest-running (albeit non-continuous) studies of this species. We also examine photos for evidence of interactions with fisheries, a known source of mortality to false killer whales. Methods: From Central America, we selected 212 individuals (50 encounter groups) out of 244 individuals (56 encounters) for inclusion in analyses based on photo quality and distinctiveness. Photos were collected on dedicated surveys from 1991-1994 and dedicated and opportunistic surveys from 1998-2022. Other than the effort off the oceanic Isla del Coco (1993-1994), surveys were undertaken in continental shelf waters. Additionally, we selected by photo quality and distinctiveness 124 (33 encounter groups) out of 189 individuals from southern California and Mexico for inclusion in these analyses. Association patterns were analyzed in SOCPROG and movements were analyzed in R. Results: Of the 328 total individuals, 158 (48.2 %) were encountered more than once, and 114 (34.8 %) were re-sighted after a year or more. The longest individual sighting history spanned 26.2 years with six re-sightings over that period between southern Costa Rica and Panama. Association and movement analyses revealed that individuals identified off southern Costa Rica and Panama linked into a single social network, with extensive movements between the two countries. Three individuals encountered off northern Costa Rica were re-sighted off northern Nicaragua, and individuals encountered off Nicaragua were encountered off Guatemala and central mainland Mexico. Nine matches were found among false killer whales between central mainland Mexico and Central America. There were no matches between the mainland coastal waters and the 33 individuals encountered around Isla del Coco. Dorsal fin disfigurements consistent with interactions with line fisheries ranged from 0 to 21 % for individuals within social clusters identified by community division. Conclusions: The infrequency of sightings combined with a high re-sighting rate of individuals and groups from the same area, suggests multiple small populations with large home ranges that include coastal waters. Small populations are sensitive to environmental changes, and as the human population grows, so do the demands on fisheries and ecotourism, which could directly impact the different populations. Additional effort in offshore areas is needed to determine the population status of false killer whales in pelagic waters, how often false killer whales using coastal waters move into pelagic waters, and the relationship between whales in the two habitats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article relates the discovery of an unusually-high density of sea urchin Diadema antillarum in the shallow reef-lagoon of Mahahual Bay in Mexico. It mentions that the urchins were found on the sides and crevices of Montastraea annularis patches. A high density of relatively large urchins compared to other reports of recovery of D. antillarum was observed in the area. The authors note that recovery of D. antillarum has been associated with low macroalgal cover and enhanced coral recruitment, and given that one macroalga, Halimeda opuntia, has been shown to harbor disease bacteria, it is possible that the high density of D. antillarum may also indirectly help to reduce coral disease.

Small-grain cereals may be a forage alternative for small-scale dairy systems under limiting climatic conditions given their short agronomic cycle. Cereals as dual-purpose forages (grazing and silage) have not been evaluated in Mexico. The objective was to assess the inclusion of rye (Secale cereale L.) (SCS) or triticale (×Triticosecale spp.) silage (TRS). The treatments were: T1 = 10 kg DM cow-1 d-1 SCS, T2 = 10 kg DM TRS, in both treatments with grazing access (8 h d-1) of a Kikuyu grass (Cenchrus clandestinus (Hochst. ex Chiov.) Morrone) pasture and supplemented with 3.6 kg DM cow-1 d-1 concentrate; in a double cross-over with six cows and three 14 d experimental periods, animal (milk yield, live weight, body condition score, and sampling for milk composition) and feed variables (net herbage accumulation, sward height and sampling for chemical composition) were recorded during the last 4 d of each period. There were no differences (P > 0.05) between treatments for milk yield (13.3 ± 2.8 kg cow-1 d-1), live weight (512.1 ± 85.9 kg), body condition score (2.2 ± 0.2), milk fat (35.8 ± 5.2 g kg-1), milk protein (27.8 ± 0.6 g kg-1), milk urea N (9.8 ± 2.5 mg dL-1) or milk pH (6.8 ± 0.07). Feeding costs were lower in SCS (P < 0.05); which may be an alternative for small-scale dairy systems. It is concluded that both rye and triticale are good alternatives as dual-purpose forage crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: recent studies suggest that low serum levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids omega-3 are associated with a higher prevalence of depression.Objective: to evaluate whether low consumption of Omega-3 fatty acids is associated with a higher prevalence of depressive symptoms in a sample of college students from the Northwest of Mexico, and to assess the potential effect modification by alcohol consumption.Methods: we conducted a cross-sectional study in a sample of 706 college students (males and females) aged 18 to 24. The presence of depressive symptoms was identified with the Depression Scale of the Center for Epidemiologic Studies (CES-D), using a cutoff point of ≥ 24. The intake of omega-3 was obtained by a food frequency questionnaire validated for Mexican population. We estimated the weekly intake of alpha-linolenic fatty acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic (DHA) derived from the diet in mg/g of food. The association between omega-3 from diet and the presence of depressive symptoms was assessed using logistic regression models adjusted for potential confounders.Results: 67% of the participants were females; 16.6% were classified as having depressive symptoms. A low intake of ALA and EPA + DHA was not associated with depressive symptoms before and after adjusting for confounders. Median levels of ALA (from nuts only) were significantly lower among those with depressive symptoms compared to those without these symptoms.Conclusions: in this population of Mexican college students, a low intake of omega-3 fatty acids was not associated with depressive symptoms. The potential association between nut consumption and depressive symptoms deserve more attention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artisan food products have been widely analyzed according to their characteristics and potentials. Nevertheless, a unified definition of what constitutes an artisan made product has not been agreed yet. Looking into the available definitions of artisan made, some of them make reference to handcrafted food products although those definitions do not mention that there are regulations, with specific parameters, that a food product must meet. The increase in the demand of artisan made food products, their cultural, health, flavour and texture values, combined with the potential of becoming a feasible rural developing strategy has attracted our attention to investigate whether artisan made food products could survive in a regularized world full of specifications that must be met. The case of study of Oaxaca cheese produced in the center of Mexico gives an example of the inability of artisans to fulfill the current legal requirements designed mainly for industrialized food products. A new terminology is proposed to refer to foodstuff elaborated with traditional methods using traditional knowledge, so that artisans could continue keeping their way of life. A new regulation system for these types of products is also considered, pointing out that the consumer should be informed about the product's natural variability due to the its "artisanal" character. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes the functioning and validation of the Decision Support Systems described in the first part of the paper. The DSS ran three case studies with different farm sizes that represent the range of farmers found in the Valley. The DSS results were validated against survey data for the same cases. Traditional technologies for maize and milk production were reproduced by the DSS including land use and cattle feeding systems. The generic nature of the DSS was demonstrated as well as its capacity to deal with the system''s socio-economic and biological aspects. The results suggest that the DSS was successful in reproducing the functioning of the farming system''s main components. More importantly it simulated the complex interactions observed between the farmers and their crops and cattle. Finally, it is acknowledged that despite the size and complexity of the DSS, it only was able to emulate the functioning of the main components of the farming system. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The objective of this work was to develop a Decision-Support System (DSS) in order to support the decision making process by campesino farmers of Central Mexico. Two biological models, one socio-economic model and a survey database form the DSS. The CERES-Maize model simulated the yield response of three local land-races of maize to different management systems. The second biological model, a cow model (dynamic hybrid model), was used to simulate alternative feeding systems. A multi-period mathematical programming model integrated the outputs of the previous models with the survey database. This model was used to find the optimal combination of resources and technologies that maximised farmers’ income. This model consists of 15,698 structural columns and 612 rows. The DSS successfully reproduced the functioning of the farming system''s main components. More importantly, it simulated the complex interactions observed between the farmers and their crops and cattle, including traditional maize management practices. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Dual purpose farms southwest of the State of Mexico produce milk and calves under subtropical agrosilvopastoral systems (ASPS). During the dry season, farmers supplement their cattle due to the low availability and quality of grasses, without considering, besides grasses, the contribution of woody species to dry matter intake, metabolizable energy (ME), and crude protein (CP) requirements of cows. The aim of this study was to determine milk produced from forage energy (MFe) and protein (MFp) of grazing cow with three types of supplement. First supplement consisted of cracked maize and commercial concentrate resulting on 14 % of CP (S14). To the S14 mixture 7 % of soybean meal was added to increase CP to 16 % (S16), and commercial concentrate of 16 % CP was used as a third supplement (SC16). Six lactating cows were allocated in a 3x3 replicated Latin Square (three cows per square), three experimental periods (EP) (three weeks per EP). There were no significant effects of supplements (P=0.80) on performance variables. Mean milk yield was 6.8 kg/cow/d. Milk from forage energy and protein were 0.8 and 6.1 kg/cow/day, respectively. Mean milk urea nitrogen (MUN) was high regardless of supplement; but nitrogen in urine (44.1 mg/dL) and feces (1.4 mg/g) were higher for SC16 (P=0.001 and 0.04, respectively). Cows obtained 90 and 10 % of their CP and metabolizable energy requirements for maintenance and production from the agrosilvopastoral system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small-scale dairy systems (SSDS) in Mexico represent over 78% of dairy farms and 37% of milk production. In the central highlands, many SSDS base the feeding of herds on irrigated cultivated pastures (mostly cut-and-carry), straws, and large amounts of commercial concentrates that result in high feeding costs and low economic sustainability. Intensive grazing may result in lower feeding costs when compared with cut-and-carry strategies. The high protein content of pasture may meet requirements of dairy cows with moderate milk yield (16–20 kg milk/cow.day), so that lower protein supplements, like ground maize grain, may substitute for commercial concentrates. An on-farm experiment following a participatory rural research approach was undertaken with seven farmers evaluating commercial concentrate (CC) or ground maize grain (MG) as supplement; and two pasture managements, grazing (G) or cut-and-carry (C) of irrigated ryegrass/white clover pastures to assess productive performance and feeding costs. Six farmers participated with four milking cows each and one farmer with two groups of four milking cows in a 2 by 2 factorial experiment. Daily milk yield per cow before the experiment was used as covariate. The experiment lasted 12 weeks. There is a trend in G for higher protein content in milk (P < 0.10). CC showed higher body condition score than MG with a significant interaction for body condition score with the highest body condition score in CCC (P < 0.05). Feeding costs were 15% higher per kg of milk yield and 19% per kg of energy-corrected milk under cut-and-carry but no statistical differences were detected (P > 0.05) in comparison with the grazing strategy. Supplementing with home-grown ground maize grain resulted in 28.5% higher margins per kg of milk produced. Implementing grazing involves less work burden for small-scale dairy farmers, and combined with home-grown grains as supplement is a viable option that may reduce feeding costs in these systems. Small-scale dairy systems are a development option to ameliorate rural poverty, but in Mexico they have high feeding costs due to reliance on external inputs. This work shows that ryegrass/white clover pastures under grazing may meet protein requirements of lactating dairy cows for moderate milk yields with similar feeding costs than cut-and-carry pasture but with less effort and; and full replacement of commercial concentrate by locally produced maize grain in the diet can maintain milk yield and milk composition of dairy cows grazing pasture under small-scale dairy systems in Mexico. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Twenty four cattle ranches in Campeche, Mexico were characterized. Technology transfer projects in diary, beef and pasture were evaluated during 2012. Proprietors with primary education predominated (33.33%). 55.40% of the area had cultivated grasses and 0.41% had forages to be used in dry season. 8.33% of the owners manufactured foods. 50% of them had electric fences with 1.28 units of animal per hectare-1. Adult cows represented 64.01% of the females. The heifers represented, from birth to one year 12.80%, from 1 to 2 years old 5.07% and from 2 years old to their first delivery 18.12%. The most predominant breeds were Cebú (33.33%) and Swiss brown (29.17%) as well as Mestizo of Holstein (25%) and Beef master (20%) in the sires with 35 females per male-1. 4 of the 8 vaccines recommended in the State were used. The annual mortality in calves was 10.23%. The percentage of producers that had registers on their animals were: in health 66.67%, in flock movement 41.67%, in reproduction 33.33%, in production 25% and in economy 8.33%. 2487 producers were qualified and 10 demonstrative technological ranches were created. The use of technical controls, electric fence and foods elaborated in all ranches was achieved. 54 hectares of Pennisetum purpureum variety Cuba CT-115 were cultivated, 15.50 hectares of Cuba OM-22 and 0.50 hectares of Cuba CT-169 were planted. The lead producers achieved a dairy production of 60,000 liters from January to August of 2011 and 2012, and 1 kilogram/animal/day was reached in 2 successive cycles of cattle meat production in the stable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]