Nitrogen demand and agro-environmental efficiency in Brazilian cereal production / Demanda de nitrogênio e eficiência agro-ambiental na produção brasileira de cereais

This paper aims to analyze the main factors that explain the demand for synthetic nitrogen fertilizers in Brazil, as well as the efficiency of their use. In addition, the research sought to relate the use of fertilizers with nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions. Demand was estimated using the two-stage least squares method (2SLS). Nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) was calculated using an agri-environmental index. The results indicated that demand of nitrogen fertilizers is positively affected by the price of cereal, cereal production and the number of fertilizers used in the past harvest. The calculated NUE presented an average value of 53% in the 1994-2018 period, indicating inefficient use of N. Emissions from nitrogen fertilization grew 59% for the same period. The increasing and / or inadequate rates of fertilizer use have resulted in agro-environmental inefficiency, that is, a decrease in NUE and an increase in N2O emissions. Public policies that guarantee more agricultural technical assistance and rational alternative forms of nitrogen use could contribute to optimizing the synthetic doses applied in production, minimizing adverse environmental effects without generating economic losses to farmers and Brazilian agricultural production.

Este trabalho tem como objetivo analisar os principais fatores que explicam a demanda por fertilizantes nitrogenados sintéticos no Brasil, bem como a eficiência de seu uso. Além disso, a pesquisa buscou relacionar o uso de fertilizantes com as emissões de óxido nitroso (N2O). A demanda foi estimada usando o método dos Mínimos Quadrados em dois Estágios (MQ2E). A eficiência do uso de nitrogênio (EUN) foi calculada por meio de um índice agroambiental. Os resultados indicaram que a demanda de fertilizantes nitrogenados é afetada positivamente pelo preço do cereal, pela produção do cereal e pela quantidade de fertilizantes utilizados na safra passada. A EUN calculada apresentou valor médio de 53% no período 1994-2018, indicando uso ineficiente de N. As emissões da adubação nitrogenada cresceram 59% no mesmo período. Os índices crescentes e/ou inadequados de uso de fertilizantes têm resultado em ineficiência agroambiental, ou seja, diminuição da EUN e aumento das emissões de N2O. Políticas públicas que garantam mais assistência técnica agropecuária e formas alternativas e racionais de uso do nitrogênio poderiam contribuir para otimizar as doses sintéticas aplicadas na produção, minimizando os efeitos ambientais adversos, sem gerar prejuízos econômicos aos agricultores e à produção agrícola brasileira.

Measurement of resource use efficiency in corn production: a two-stage data envelopment analysis approach in Turkey / Medição da eficiência do uso de recursos na produção de milho: uma abordagem de análise de dados em duas fases na Turquia

This research analyzed the efficiency situation of corn farms operating in the Adana province of Turkey. In this context, required farm management data were collected from 111 corn farmers by using face to face survey method during the 2019-2020 cultivation season. To determine the technical efficiency (TE) levels of corn farms, Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) was applied. Furthermore, factors that cause the inefficiency in corn farms were detected by using the Tobit regression model. According to research results, the average TE levels of corn farms in the research area under the variable return to scale conditions are reported as 0.887 (111 farms). These results suggested that if farms reduced their input use by 11.3% on average, they can achieve the same output level and be able to reach full technical efficiency. The most ineffective source in terms of farms performance is machine expenditures with 68.2% of excessive use followed by labor use. In this regard, mechanization modernization, education and training of the labor force and more sensitive fertilizers and pesticide use can increase the efficiency of corn farms. Results of the Tobit regression model indicated that factors such as experience, education, number of tractors and size of the irrigated area positively influenced the TE, whereas family size in corn farming has a negative effect.

Esta pesquisa tem como objetivo analisar a situação de eficiência das fazendas de milho operando na província de Adana, na Turquia. Neste contexto, os dados necessários de gestão da fazenda foram coletados de 111 produtores de milho usando o método de pesquisa frente a frente durante a temporada de cultivo de 2019-2020. Para determinar os níveis de eficiência técnica (TE) das fazendas de milho, foi aplicada a Análise Envoltória de Dados (DEA). Além disso, os fatores que causam a ineficiência nas fazendas de milho foram detectados por meio do modelo de regressão Tobit. De acordo com os resultados da pesquisa, os níveis médios de TE das fazendas de milho na área de pesquisa sob as condições de retorno variável à escala são encontrados em 0,887 (111 fazendas). Esses resultados sugerem que, se as fazendas reduzirem o uso de insumos em 11,3% em média, podem atingir o mesmo nível de produção e alcançar eficiência técnica plena. A fonte mais ineficaz em termos de desempenho das fazendas são os gastos com máquinas, com 68,2% do uso excedente continuado com o uso de mão de obra. Nesse sentido, a mecanização, a modernização, a educação e o treinamento da força de trabalho e o uso de fertilizantes e pesticidas mais sensíveis podem ser sugeridos para aumentar a eficiência das fazendas de milho. Os resultados do modelo de regressão Tobit indicam que fatores como experiência, escolaridade, número de tratores e tamanho da área irrigada influenciaram positivamente no TE, enquanto o tamanho da família na cultura do milho tem efeito negativo.

Influence of the seasons on the quality and composition of milk from dairy farms in the northern region of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil / Influência das estações do ano sobre a qualidade microbiológica do leite de fazendas leiteiras da região norte do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil

This study aimed to verify the relationship between parameters of physicochemical composition, microbiological quality, and volume of milk delivered to a dairy in the northern region of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, at four different times in 2020. For this purpose, the parameters volume, protein, fat, lactose, total solids, somatic cell count (SCC), and standard plate count (SPC) were evaluated. The data were collected in January, April, July, and October from 1634 dairy farms located in the northern region of Rio Grande do Sul. The data were evaluated using Pearson's correlation, while the means were compared using Tukey's test, both at a 5% significance. Milk fat and protein contents were higher during fall (4.02 and 3.35%) and winter (3.90 and 3.36%, respectively), contributing to a higher concentration of solids. The microbiological quality of milk, especially SCC, is compromised during the warmer months due to the thermal stress suffered by the animals, challenging their immune system and increasing their susceptibility to diseases. The highest milk SPC in the winter (247.12 CFU/mL) refers to the transfer of contamination from the teat to the tank due to the inefficiency of pre-milking procedures. Therefore, the microbiological quality of milk was variable between the studied periods, and fat and protein contents suffered reductions during the summer, reflecting lower remuneration for quality given the high SCC in the same season.

O objetivo desse estudo foi verificar a relação entre parâmetros da composição físico-química, qualidade microbiológica e volume de leite entregue a um laticínio na região Norte do Rio Grande do Sul, no ano de 2020, em quatro diferentes épocas do ano. Para isso, foram avaliados os parâmetros volume, proteína, gordura, lactose, sólidos totais, contagem de células somáticas (CCS) e contagem padrão em placas (CPP). Os dados foram coletados nos meses de janeiro, abril, julho e outubro, em 1634 propriedades leiteiras localizadas na região Norte do Rio Grande do Sul. Os dados foram avaliados por meio da correlação de Pearson e as médias foram comparadas pelo teste de Tukey, ambos a 5% de significância. Os teores de gordura e proteína do leite foram maiores durante o outono (4,02 e 3,35%) e o inverno (3,90 e 3,36%, respectivamente), contribuindo para a maior concentração de sólidos no mesmo período. A qualidade microbiológica do leite, principalmente a CCS, é comprometida durante os meses mais quentes, em virtude do estresse térmico sofrido pelos animais, desafiando o sistema imune e aumentando a susceptibilidade a enfermidades. A maior CPP do leite no período de inverno (247,12 UFC/mL) remete à transferência de sujidades do teto para o tanque, em virtude da ineficiência dos procedimentos pré-ordenha. Portanto, a qualidade microbiológica do leite foi variável entre os períodos estudados, sendo que os teores de gordura e proteína sofreram reduções durante o verão, refletindo em menores remunerações por qualidade, visto a alta CCS na mesma estação.

Tratamento da epilepsia idiopática canina - quadro clínico após interação medicamentosa / Treatment of canine idiopathic epilepsy - clinical picture after drug interaction

Background: The large number of diseases demand perennial development of the pharmaceutical industry. The drugtesting phase is essential to make them available safely. Awareness of pharmacological properties, adverse effects and drug interactions is required. Drug interactions are common in veterinary medicine and should be avoided. At times, epileptic seizures require polydrug therapy, predisposing patients to drug interactions. The interaction between carbamazepine and phenobarbital reported in the literature is an example. The aim of this paper is to report a clinical picture of drug interaction in the treatment of idiopathic epilepsy. Case: A 1-year-old Border Collie male dog, was admitted at the Veterinary Hospital of the Federal University of Lavras in post-ictal. The tutor reported that a year ago the animal had epileptic seizures and clusters with intervals of 21 to 25 days. Despite the continued use of previously prescribed phenobarbital (7.4 mg/kg, v.o., BID, until new recommendations) and carbamazepine (7.5 mg/kg, v.o., BID, until new recommendations), seizure control was not achieved. The physical examination indicated, tachypnea, ptialism, mydriasis, intense fatigue, and alienation from the environment. The patient did not respond to the threat-reflex test. Blood count, hepatic and renal blood chemistry, serum electrolyte (potassium, sodium, calcium and phosphorus), and phenobarbital dosages were requested. Based on the animal's history, breed characteristics, and alterations in the physical examination associated with normal results in complementary exams, idiopathic epilepsy was diagnosed. After analyzing the case, it was observed that the inefficiency in the control of seizures was possibly due to the drug interaction between phenobarbital and carbamazepine. Carbamazepine and phenobarbital reciprocally reduce their half-lives. To confirm the raised hypothesis, the serum concentration of carbamazepine was gradually reduced through weaning from its dose administered to the patient. Serial dosage of the concentration of phenobarbital in the bloodstream was performed. As a result, the serum phenobarbital, previously dosed at a concentration of 13.3 mg/dL with concomitant administration of carbamazepine, increased to 22 mg/dL 40 days after the beginning of weaning from carbamazepine (T0), and then to 36 mg/dL 100 days after T0. There was an increase in the concentration of phenobarbital in the bloodstream while the serum concentration of carbamazepine declined. The patient spaced out his seizures to every 50 to 60 days with phenobarbital monotherapy at a dose of 6 mg/kg. Discussion: Efficient control of clusters, such as the reduction of seizures by 50%, was only possible due to the meticulous perception of the possible interaction reported in medicine. Carbamazepine and phenobarbital are P450 isoenzyme inducers. The concomitant administration of both drugs potentiated the action of isoenzymes in the hepatic microsomal system, which led to an accelerated metabolic processing of the drugs. After weaning from carbamazepine, that is, reducing the action of carbamazepine on the isoenzymes of the P450 enzyme system, the concentration of phenobarbital normalized at 36 mg/ dL. Such concentration is within the reference range reported in the literature: 25 mg/dL to 35 mg/dL of serum phenobarbital for treatment efficacy. Therefore, the control of convulsive crises was achieved. The increase in the concentration of phenobarbital due only to weaning from carbamazepine, even after decreasing the daily dose of barbiturate prescribed to the animal, contributed to evidence of the interaction of these drugs. It is noted that prior knowledge of pharmacological properties, careful study of the patient's history, and the cooperation of the tutor were essential for the therapeutic success and practice of evidence-based veterinary medicine.

Analysis of the technical efficiency of european sea bass farms in Turkey: a stochastic frontier production function approach / Análise da eficiência técnica de fazendas de produção de robalo europeu na Turquia: uma abordagem de fronteira estocástica de produção

This study's main objective was to estimate sea bass farms' technical efficiency and determine the factors affecting production inefficiency using the stochastic frontier approach. The data were collected using questionnaires from 71 farms in 2017. The total sea bass production cost was calculated 5.35 $ kg-¹, income 5.65 $ kg-¹, gross profit 0.30 $ kg-¹. The proportion of variable costs (84.25%) in total costs was higher than the fixed costs (15.75%). The feed cost (57.56%) was the influential primary variable on the total costs, and the benefit-cost ratio was 1.06. The results indicated that seabass farms' technical efficiency varied between 0.67 to 1.00, and the average was 0.82. The efficiency scores meant the farms could achieve the same production amount by reducing inputs by 18%. One per cent increase in resale value, feed amount, and fingerling amount, increase sea bass production by 0.4%, 0.4%, and 0.2%, respectively. Fish loss rates and subsidies were influential on inefficiency. It would be beneficial to minimize risk factors such as fish loss rates and carry out political and educational activities to improve farms' infrastructure in breeding and marketing. As a result, policymakers should also include the effective use of production factors in the design of aquaculture subsidy policies.

O objetivo principal deste estudo foi determinar a eficiência técnica de fazendas de robalo e determinar os fatores que afetam a eficiência de produção usando a abordagem de fronteira estocástica. Os dados foram obtidos em 71 fazendas de robalo em 2017 por meio de questionários. Na produção de robalo, o custo total de produção foi de 5,35 $ kg-¹; a receita 5,65 $ kg-¹, e o lucro bruto foi de 0,30 $ kg-¹. A taxa dos custos variáveis nos custos totais (84,25%) foi superior aos custos fixos (15,75%). O custo da alimentação (57,56%) foi determinado como a variável primária que afeta os custos totais e a relação custo-benefício foi calculada como 1,06. Os resultados mostraram que o nível de eficiência técnica das fazendas de robalo variou de 0,67 a 1,00 e a média foi de 0,82. Os pontos de eficiência significam que as fazendas podem atingir a mesma produção reduzindo os insumos em 18%. Um aumento de 1,0% no valor de vendas, quantidade de ração e produção de peixes juvenis aumentou a produção de robalo em 0,4%, 0,4% e 0,2%, respectivamente. As taxas de perda de peixes e subsídios aumentam a ineficiência. Para minimizar os fatores de risco, como as taxas de perda de peixes, seria benéfico elaborar políticas públicas e organizar atividades de treinamento para melhorar a infraestrutura de produção e comercialização das fazendas. Como resultado, os formuladores de políticas também devem incluir a eficiência dos fatores de produção na elaboração das políticas de subsídio à aquicultura.

Analysis of the technical efficiency of european sea bass farms in Turkey: a stochastic frontier production function approach / Análise da eficiência técnica de fazendas de produção de robalo europeu na Turquia: uma abordagem de fronteira estocástica de produção

This study's main objective was to estimate sea bass farms' technical efficiency and determine the factors affecting production inefficiency using the stochastic frontier approach. The data were collected using questionnaires from 71 farms in 2017. The total sea bass production cost was calculated 5.35 $ kg-¹, income 5.65 $ kg-¹, gross profit 0.30 $ kg-¹. The proportion of variable costs (84.25%) in total costs was higher than the fixed costs (15.75%). The feed cost (57.56%) was the influential primary variable on the total costs, and the benefit-cost ratio was 1.06. The results indicated that seabass farms' technical efficiency varied between 0.67 to 1.00, and the average was 0.82. The efficiency scores meant the farms could achieve the same production amount by reducing inputs by 18%. One per cent increase in resale value, feed amount, and fingerling amount, increase sea bass production by 0.4%, 0.4%, and 0.2%, respectively. Fish loss rates and subsidies were influential on inefficiency. It would be beneficial to minimize risk factors such as fish loss rates and carry out political and educational activities to improve farms' infrastructure in breeding and marketing. As a result, policymakers should also include the effective use of production factors in the design of aquaculture subsidy policies.(AU)

O objetivo principal deste estudo foi determinar a eficiência técnica de fazendas de robalo e determinar os fatores que afetam a eficiência de produção usando a abordagem de fronteira estocástica. Os dados foram obtidos em 71 fazendas de robalo em 2017 por meio de questionários. Na produção de robalo, o custo total de produção foi de 5,35 $ kg-¹; a receita 5,65 $ kg-¹, e o lucro bruto foi de 0,30 $ kg-¹. A taxa dos custos variáveis nos custos totais (84,25%) foi superior aos custos fixos (15,75%). O custo da alimentação (57,56%) foi determinado como a variável primária que afeta os custos totais e a relação custo-benefício foi calculada como 1,06. Os resultados mostraram que o nível de eficiência técnica das fazendas de robalo variou de 0,67 a 1,00 e a média foi de 0,82. Os pontos de eficiência significam que as fazendas podem atingir a mesma produção reduzindo os insumos em 18%. Um aumento de 1,0% no valor de vendas, quantidade de ração e produção de peixes juvenis aumentou a produção de robalo em 0,4%, 0,4% e 0,2%, respectivamente. As taxas de perda de peixes e subsídios aumentam a ineficiência. Para minimizar os fatores de risco, como as taxas de perda de peixes, seria benéfico elaborar políticas públicas e organizar atividades de treinamento para melhorar a infraestrutura de produção e comercialização das fazendas. Como resultado, os formuladores de políticas também devem incluir a eficiência dos fatores de produção na elaboração das políticas de subsídio à aquicultura.(AU)

Contaminação microscópica por matérias estranhas em noz-moscada, cúrcuma, gengibre, colorífico, pimenta-do-reino e páprica comercializados no estado de São Paulo, Brasil. (Parte I) / Microscopic contamination by foreign matter in nutmeg, turmeric, ginger, colorific, black pepper and paprika marketed in the State of Sao Paulo, Brazil. (Part I)

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a presença de matérias estranhas em noz-moscada, (Myristica fragrans Houttuyn), cúrcuma (Curcuma longa Linnaeus), gengibre (Zingiber officinale Roscoe), colorífico (mistura de urucum [Bixa orellana Linnaeus] com fubá), pimenta-do-reino (Piper nigrum Linnaeus) e páprica (Capsicum annuum Linnaeus) conforme a legislação sanitária. Foram analisadas 180 amostras empregando os métodos preconizados pela AOAC International, de maio de 2018 a maio de 2020. A presença de ao menos uma matéria estranha foi observada em 80% das amostras. Pelos animais foram observados em todos os produtos e fragmentos de insetos foram encontrados na maioria das amostras. Ácaro, inseto inteiro, larva de inseto, bárbula e exúvia também foram encontrados, além de fibras sintéticas e fragmentos de microplásticos. Quanto à legislação, 47,8% das amostras estavam acima dos limites de tolerância, destas, 90,7% por conterem matérias estranhas indicativas de falhas na aplicação das boas práticas e 9,3% por matérias estranhas indicativas de risco à saúde. Os resultados obtidos denotam ineficiência da aplicação das medidas de boas práticas na cadeia produtiva e alertam para a intensificação da fiscalização direcionada ao cumprimento das normas sanitárias, além de provocarem a reflexão sobre a necessidade de alterações na legislação referente às matérias estranhas. (AU)

The aim of this work was to evaluate the presence of foreign matter in nutmeg, (Myristica fragrans Houttuyn), turmeric (Curcuma longa Linnaeus), ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe), colorific (mixture of annatto [Bixa orellana Linnaeus] with cornmeal), black pepper (Piper nigrum Linnaeus) and paprika (Capsicum annuum Linnaeus) according to the health legislation. A total of 180 samples were analyzed using the methods recommended by AOAC International, from May 2018 to May 2020. The presence of at least one foreign matter was observed in 80% of the samples. Animal's hairs were observed in all the evaluated products and insect's fragments were found in the most of the samples. Mites, whole insects, insect larvae, barbules and exuvia were also found, as wellas synthetic fibers and microplastic fragments. About legislation, 47.8% of the samples were above the tolerance limits, of these, 90.7% for containing foreign matters indicating failure of good practices and 9.3% for foreign matters indicating health risk. The results obtained show inefficiency in the application of good practice measures in production chain and advertise for the intensification of inspection directed to fulfillment of sanitary norms, besides provoking the reflection on the necessity of alterations in the legislation about foreign matter in foods. (AU)

Effect of job rotation on the risk of developing Ul-WMSDS in poultry slaughterhouse workers

This study analyzed the effect of job rotation on the risk of developing UL-WMSDs in a poultry slaughterhouse with 1,200 workers. Three organizational settings were evaluated (“without job rotation”, “with job rotation - tasks >1h” and “with job rotation - tasks <1h”) using the OCRA Checklist method and the fulfillment of requirements for the implementation of rotations established by the Brazilian Regulatory Standard NR-36. The OCRA score of the right upper limbs (16.5±5.7) were significantly higher (p<0.001) relative to the left upper limbs (15.0±5.6). The average scores on all three organizational conditions presented moderate risk. There was a significant difference between the scores of the conditions “without job rotation” and “with job rotation - tasks <1h” (p=0.011), as well as “without job rotation” and “with job rotation - tasks >1h” (p<0.001). Thus, the results of the risk using the OCRA Checklist method showed the inefficiency of the realization of rotations >1h and <1h compared to not carrying out job rotation for the reduction of the UL-WMSDs risk. In relation to NR-36 requirements, it was found that alternating sitting and standing posture, postural requirements reduction and monotony were met by most sectors. Finally, it was difficult implementing efficient rotations due to particularities of work in the slaughterhouses such as: tasks with similar musculoskeletal requirements, pace imposed by machines, inability to perform rotations between different sectors (health and occupational constraints), the predominance of tasks with moderate and high risks, hindering the distribution of risks between the tasks of the rotation.(AU)

Endocrine profile and reproductive performance in heifers induced to lactation

Background: Low reproductive efficiency has been one of the main factors that lead to dairy herd culling in the reproductive age. In multiparous animals, such inefficiency and culling can occur because of various factors and may be associated with occasional endocrine failures. To avoid revenue losses that incur due to lack of lactation, lactation is artificiallyinduced in the animals that are not pregnant, using a defined protocol. The aim of this study was, therefore, to evaluateand compare the reproductive performance of heifers submitted to the induction protocol with that of pregnant heifersduring the transition period.Materials, Methods & Results: Sixty Holstein heifers, 32 ± 0.6 months of age, were divided into two groups: ControlGroup (Control, n = 30) comprising pregnant heifers that were accompanied since 21 days before the expected calvingdate until 224 days in milk (DIM) and an Induction Group (Induction, n = 30) comprising non-pregnant heifers submittedto a lactation induction protocol, accompanied from the beginning of the protocol until 224 DIM. For evaluation of theendocrine profile (progesterone and estradiol concentrations) of these animals, blood samples were collected at two periods: the pre-lactation (weeks -3, -2 and -1) and post-lactation (weeks 1 and 4). Heifers from both groups were submittedto weekly reproductive evaluations, from the beginning of lactation until 35 DIM. Uterine examinations were performedusing ultrasonography and vaginoscopy to evaluate uterine content, cervical opening, and mucosal aspect. Females ingood reproductive health were subjected to a hormonal protocol for timed artificial insemination (TAI). The pregnancyrate of heifers that could reproduce (Control, n = 13, and Induction, n = 20) were evaluated and inseminated until 49 DIM.Progesterone levels were similar (P > 0.05) in the two groups at both pre- and post-start of lactation. Estradiol...

Endocrine profile and reproductive performance in heifers induced to lactation

Background: Low reproductive efficiency has been one of the main factors that lead to dairy herd culling in the reproductive age. In multiparous animals, such inefficiency and culling can occur because of various factors and may be associated with occasional endocrine failures. To avoid revenue losses that incur due to lack of lactation, lactation is artificiallyinduced in the animals that are not pregnant, using a defined protocol. The aim of this study was, therefore, to evaluateand compare the reproductive performance of heifers submitted to the induction protocol with that of pregnant heifersduring the transition period.Materials, Methods & Results: Sixty Holstein heifers, 32 ± 0.6 months of age, were divided into two groups: ControlGroup (Control, n = 30) comprising pregnant heifers that were accompanied since 21 days before the expected calvingdate until 224 days in milk (DIM) and an Induction Group (Induction, n = 30) comprising non-pregnant heifers submittedto a lactation induction protocol, accompanied from the beginning of the protocol until 224 DIM. For evaluation of theendocrine profile (progesterone and estradiol concentrations) of these animals, blood samples were collected at two periods: the pre-lactation (weeks -3, -2 and -1) and post-lactation (weeks 1 and 4). Heifers from both groups were submittedto weekly reproductive evaluations, from the beginning of lactation until 35 DIM. Uterine examinations were performedusing ultrasonography and vaginoscopy to evaluate uterine content, cervical opening, and mucosal aspect. Females ingood reproductive health were subjected to a hormonal protocol for timed artificial insemination (TAI). The pregnancyrate of heifers that could reproduce (Control, n = 13, and Induction, n = 20) were evaluated and inseminated until 49 DIM.Progesterone levels were similar (P > 0.05) in the two groups at both pre- and post-start of lactation. Estradiol...(AU)

Eficiência técnica dos estabelecimentos rurais brasileiros: o que nos dizem os microdados do Censo Agropecuário 2006? / Technical efficiency of rural Brazilian establishments: what do the microdata from the 2006 Agricultural Census tell us?

The objective of this work was to estimate the technical efficiency scores of Brazilian agricultural establishments using Stochastic Frontier Analysis. For that purpose, microdata from the 2006 Brazilian Agricultural Census of the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (ibge) were used. The units of analysis are the agricultural establishments since they allow broad characterization, as well as minimization of possible bias caused by data aggregation at the municipal or state level. The value of production responded positively to increases in land, capital goods, labor and inputs, but negatively to the stock of animals on the property. The average estimated technical efficiency was 0.32. This low value observed suggests that Brazilian agricultural establishments were in general fairly inefficient. This result is important for agricultural policies since it suggests that policies aimed at reducing the technical inefficiency of agricultural establishments may be effective in increasing agricultural production.

O objetivo deste trabalho foi estimar os escores de eficiência técnica dos estabelecimentos agropecuários brasileiros utilizando o método da Fronteira Estocástica de Produção. Para tanto, foram utilizados os microdados do Censo Agropecuário 2006 do IBGE (Instituto Brasileiro de Geografia e Estatística), cujas unidades de pesquisa são os estabelecimentos agropecuários, visto que os mesmos permitem caracterizações amplas, bem como a minimização de possível viés causado pela agregação das informações em âmbito municipal ou estadual. Dentre os resultados, destaca-se que o valor da produção respondeu positivamente a aumentos nos fatores terra, bens de capital, trabalho e insumos, mas negativamente ao estoque de animais existente no estabelecimento. A média da eficiência técnica estimada foi de 0,32, sendo que esse baixo valor observado sugere que, em média, os estabelecimentos agropecuários brasileiros eram bastante ineficientes. Este resultado é de grande importância para as políticas agropecuárias, uma vez que sugerem que políticas voltadas para reduzir a ineficiência técnica dos estabelecimentos rurais podem ser eficazes para aumentar a produção agropecuária.

Eficiência técnica dos estabelecimentos rurais brasileiros: o que nos dizem os microdados do Censo Agropecuário 2006? / Technical efficiency of rural Brazilian establishments: what do the microdata from the 2006 Agricultural Census tell us?

The objective of this work was to estimate the technical efficiency scores of Brazilian agricultural establishments using Stochastic Frontier Analysis. For that purpose, microdata from the 2006 Brazilian Agricultural Census of the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (ibge) were used. The units of analysis are the agricultural establishments since they allow broad characterization, as well as minimization of possible bias caused by data aggregation at the municipal or state level. The value of production responded positively to increases in land, capital goods, labor and inputs, but negatively to the stock of animals on the property. The average estimated technical efficiency was 0.32. This low value observed suggests that Brazilian agricultural establishments were in general fairly inefficient. This result is important for agricultural policies since it suggests that policies aimed at reducing the technical inefficiency of agricultural establishments may be effective in increasing agricultural production.(AU)

O objetivo deste trabalho foi estimar os escores de eficiência técnica dos estabelecimentos agropecuários brasileiros utilizando o método da Fronteira Estocástica de Produção. Para tanto, foram utilizados os microdados do Censo Agropecuário 2006 do IBGE (Instituto Brasileiro de Geografia e Estatística), cujas unidades de pesquisa são os estabelecimentos agropecuários, visto que os mesmos permitem caracterizações amplas, bem como a minimização de possível viés causado pela agregação das informações em âmbito municipal ou estadual. Dentre os resultados, destaca-se que o valor da produção respondeu positivamente a aumentos nos fatores terra, bens de capital, trabalho e insumos, mas negativamente ao estoque de animais existente no estabelecimento. A média da eficiência técnica estimada foi de 0,32, sendo que esse baixo valor observado sugere que, em média, os estabelecimentos agropecuários brasileiros eram bastante ineficientes. Este resultado é de grande importância para as políticas agropecuárias, uma vez que sugerem que políticas voltadas para reduzir a ineficiência técnica dos estabelecimentos rurais podem ser eficazes para aumentar a produção agropecuária.(AU)

Hematological and biochemical characteristics during the transport of dog snapper Lutjanus jocu (Perciformes: Lutjanidae)

The objective of this study was to evaluate stress responses in dog snapper (Lutjanus jocu) during transport by evaluating their hematological and biochemical responses. Twenty-five wild dog snapper specimens were used in the experiment (220 ± 68 g and 24.5 ± 2.5 cm total length). Blood samples were collected prior to transport (control), and fish were placed in two transport boxes, one with anesthetic and one without anesthetic. Immediately after transport and after 24 h, blood was collected from the fish that underwent each treatment (with anesthetic and without anesthetic). Biochemical and hematological results demonstrated the inefficiency of benzocaine as a stress reliever during handling and transport. Biochemical parameters revealed the effects of stress during transport, and after 24 h, glucose levels and hematological parameters (hemoglobin, erythrocytes, leukocytes, neutrophils and MCH) showed a tendency to return to control levels. This study is the first to report stress response measurements of hematological and biochemical indicators in dog snapper, representing an important basis for the planning of future experiments involving the transport and handling of this fish species.(AU)

O objetivo desde estudo foi avaliar as repostas de estresse em dentão (Lutjanus jocu) durante o procedimento de transporte, através de respostas hematológicas e bioquímicas. Vinte e cinco exemplares selvagens de dentão foram utilizados no experimento (220 ± 68 g e 24.5 ± 2.5 cm de comprimento total). Foram realizadas coletas de sangue previamente ao transporte (controle), e os demais peixes foram acondicionados em duas caixas de transporte, uma com anestésico e outra sem anestésico. Imediatamente após o transporte e após 24 h, houve coleta de sangue para cada tratamento (com anestésico e sem anestésico). Os resultados bioquímicos e hematológicos apontam a ineficiência da benzocaína como mitigador do estresse durante o manuseio e transporte. Os parâmetros bioquímicos foram capazes de detectar o efeito do estresse durante o transporte, e após 24 h os níveis de glicose e alguns parâmetros hematológicos (hemoglobina, eritrócitos, leucócitos, neutrófilos e MCH) demonstraram uma tendência de retorno aos níveis do controle. Este trabalho é o primeiro a informar os níveis de resposta basal e de estresse para indicadores hematológicos e bioquímicos em dentão, representando uma base importante para o planejamento de futuras experiências com transporte e manejo dessa espécie.(AU)

Hematological and biochemical characteristics during the transport of dog snapper Lutjanus jocu (Perciformes: Lutjanidae)

The objective of this study was to evaluate stress responses in dog snapper (Lutjanus jocu) during transport by evaluating their hematological and biochemical responses. Twenty-five wild dog snapper specimens were used in the experiment (220 ± 68 g and 24.5 ± 2.5 cm total length). Blood samples were collected prior to transport (control), and fish were placed in two transport boxes, one with anesthetic and one without anesthetic. Immediately after transport and after 24 h, blood was collected from the fish that underwent each treatment (with anesthetic and without anesthetic). Biochemical and hematological results demonstrated the inefficiency of benzocaine as a stress reliever during handling and transport. Biochemical parameters revealed the effects of stress during transport, and after 24 h, glucose levels and hematological parameters (hemoglobin, erythrocytes, leukocytes, neutrophils and MCH) showed a tendency to return to control levels. This study is the first to report stress response measurements of hematological and biochemical indicators in dog snapper, representing an important basis for the planning of future experiments involving the transport and handling of this fish species.(AU)

O objetivo desde estudo foi avaliar as repostas de estresse em dentão (Lutjanus jocu) durante o procedimento de transporte, através de respostas hematológicas e bioquímicas. Vinte e cinco exemplares selvagens de dentão foram utilizados no experimento (220 ± 68 g e 24.5 ± 2.5 cm de comprimento total). Foram realizadas coletas de sangue previamente ao transporte (controle), e os demais peixes foram acondicionados em duas caixas de transporte, uma com anestésico e outra sem anestésico. Imediatamente após o transporte e após 24 h, houve coleta de sangue para cada tratamento (com anestésico e sem anestésico). Os resultados bioquímicos e hematológicos apontam a ineficiência da benzocaína como mitigador do estresse durante o manuseio e transporte. Os parâmetros bioquímicos foram capazes de detectar o efeito do estresse durante o transporte, e após 24 h os níveis de glicose e alguns parâmetros hematológicos (hemoglobina, eritrócitos, leucócitos, neutrófilos e MCH) demonstraram uma tendência de retorno aos níveis do controle. Este trabalho é o primeiro a informar os níveis de resposta basal e de estresse para indicadores hematológicos e bioquímicos em dentão, representando uma base importante para o planejamento de futuras experiências com transporte e manejo dessa espécie.(AU)

Efeito da suplementação com sulfato de zinco ou propilenoglicol em ovinos em uma pastagem nativa da Caatinga no período chuvoso: desempenho, características da carcaça e da carne / Effect of supplementation with either Zinc sulfate or propylene glycol in lambs on a native Caatinga pasture in the wet season: performance, carcass and meat characteristics

Objetivou-se avaliar os efeitos do zinco ou do propilenoglicol sobre o desempenho e nas características da carcaça e da carne de ovinos sob pastejo em pastagem nativa da Caatinga. Utilizaram-se 24 ovinos, mestiços Santa Inês, machos, não castrados, peso inicial de 19,3±2,52kg, com quatro meses de idade, oito repetições por tratamento, distribuídos em um delineamento inteiramente ao acaso. Os tratamentos foram: sem aditivo, controle (CT), adição de sulfato de zinco (ZnSO4.7H2O) (Zn) para fornecimento de 300mg de Zn dia-1 via sal mineral, e propilenoglicol (PG), 2,5mL kgPC0,75-1 animal-1 dia-1 misturado no concentrado. Os animais foram suplementados com concentrado constituído de milho (54,0%), farelo de soja (45,1%) e calcário (0,911%) em 0,7% do PC médio de cada tratamento. O ensaio foi conduzido durante quatro meses (março a junho/2014). Avaliaram-se o desempenho e, após o abate dos animais, as características de carcaça e os componentes não carcaça, os parâmetros físico-químicos e organolépticos na carne. O Zn e o propilenoglicol não afetaram o desempenho e os parâmetros da carcaça em termos absoluto e relativo, bem como os pesos dos cortes e seus rendimentos (P>0,05). Não houve efeito dos aditivos nas características organolépticas e nos aspectos físico-químicos da carne (P>0,05), exceto cinzas (P<0,05). O zinco e o propilenoglicol não melhoram o desempenho e as características da carcaça de animais terminados em pastagem nativa da Caatinga. O baixo suprimento energético devido à má qualidade do pasto entre os meses de abril a junho contribui para a ineficiência no aproveitamento dos constituintes proteicos, implicando menor consumo e consequente diminuição do desempenho.(AU)

The aim was to evaluate the effects of zinc sulfate or propylene glycol on performance and carcass and meat characteristics from sheep under grazing in native Caatinga (Brazilian savannah) pasture during the rainy season. Twenty-four intact Santa Ines crossbreed male lambs, with an initial weight of 19.3±2.52kg, and 4-mo old, were distributed in a completely randomized design with eight replications per treatment. The treatments were composed of additives, as follows: no additive - control (CT); addition of zinc sulfate (ZnSO4.7H2O) (Zn) to supply a total of 300mg Zn day−1 on mineral salt; and addition of propylene glycol (PG), 2.5mL kg LW0.75−1 animal−1 day−1 mixed directly in the concentrate. Afterwards, they were supplemented with concentrate at 0.7% of the average LW of each batch according to the treatments. The concentrate was based on corn (54.0%), soybean meal (45.1%), and limestone (0.911%). The trials were carried out during the rainy season (March to June 2014), and evaluated the performance, and before of slaughter, carcass characteristics and non-carcass components were evaluated and the physical-chemical aspects and the organoleptic attributes on the meat. The additives did not affect the performance, parameters of carcass, in terms absolute and relative, carcass morphometric measurements, weight of the commercial cuts and yields (P>0.05). The additives did not affect the organoleptic characteristics and physical-chemical aspects of the meat (P>0.05), except, ash (P<0.05). The zinc sulfate and propylene glycol did not improve on performance and in carcass characteristics in lambs finished on a native Caatinga (Brazilian savannah) pasture. The low supply energetic due to poor quality of pasture between the months of April to June, which contributed to inefficiency in the utilization of proteics constituents, implying in lower intake, and decrease in performance.(AU)

Efeito da suplementação com sulfato de zinco ou propilenoglicol em ovinos em uma pastagem nativa da Caatinga no período chuvoso: desempenho, características da carcaça e da carne / Effect of supplementation with either Zinc sulfate or propylene glycol in lambs on a native Caatinga pasture in the wet season: performance, carcass and meat characteristics

Objetivou-se avaliar os efeitos do zinco ou do propilenoglicol sobre o desempenho e nas características da carcaça e da carne de ovinos sob pastejo em pastagem nativa da Caatinga. Utilizaram-se 24 ovinos, mestiços Santa Inês, machos, não castrados, peso inicial de 19,3±2,52kg, com quatro meses de idade, oito repetições por tratamento, distribuídos em um delineamento inteiramente ao acaso. Os tratamentos foram: sem aditivo, controle (CT), adição de sulfato de zinco (ZnSO4.7H2O) (Zn) para fornecimento de 300mg de Zn dia-1 via sal mineral, e propilenoglicol (PG), 2,5mL kgPC0,75-1 animal-1 dia-1 misturado no concentrado. Os animais foram suplementados com concentrado constituído de milho (54,0%), farelo de soja (45,1%) e calcário (0,911%) em 0,7% do PC médio de cada tratamento. O ensaio foi conduzido durante quatro meses (março a junho/2014). Avaliaram-se o desempenho e, após o abate dos animais, as características de carcaça e os componentes não carcaça, os parâmetros físico-químicos e organolépticos na carne. O Zn e o propilenoglicol não afetaram o desempenho e os parâmetros da carcaça em termos absoluto e relativo, bem como os pesos dos cortes e seus rendimentos (P>0,05). Não houve efeito dos aditivos nas características organolépticas e nos aspectos físico-químicos da carne (P>0,05), exceto cinzas (P<0,05). O zinco e o propilenoglicol não melhoram o desempenho e as características da carcaça de animais terminados em pastagem nativa da Caatinga. O baixo suprimento energético devido à má qualidade do pasto entre os meses de abril a junho contribui para a ineficiência no aproveitamento dos constituintes proteicos, implicando menor consumo e consequente diminuição do desempenho.(AU)

The aim was to evaluate the effects of zinc sulfate or propylene glycol on performance and carcass and meat characteristics from sheep under grazing in native Caatinga (Brazilian savannah) pasture during the rainy season. Twenty-four intact Santa Ines crossbreed male lambs, with an initial weight of 19.3±2.52kg, and 4-mo old, were distributed in a completely randomized design with eight replications per treatment. The treatments were composed of additives, as follows: no additive - control (CT); addition of zinc sulfate (ZnSO4.7H2O) (Zn) to supply a total of 300mg Zn day−1 on mineral salt; and addition of propylene glycol (PG), 2.5mL kg LW0.75−1 animal−1 day−1 mixed directly in the concentrate. Afterwards, they were supplemented with concentrate at 0.7% of the average LW of each batch according to the treatments. The concentrate was based on corn (54.0%), soybean meal (45.1%), and limestone (0.911%). The trials were carried out during the rainy season (March to June 2014), and evaluated the performance, and before of slaughter, carcass characteristics and non-carcass components were evaluated and the physical-chemical aspects and the organoleptic attributes on the meat. The additives did not affect the performance, parameters of carcass, in terms absolute and relative, carcass morphometric measurements, weight of the commercial cuts and yields (P>0.05). The additives did not affect the organoleptic characteristics and physical-chemical aspects of the meat (P>0.05), except, ash (P<0.05). The zinc sulfate and propylene glycol did not improve on performance and in carcass characteristics in lambs finished on a native Caatinga (Brazilian savannah) pasture. The low supply energetic due to poor quality of pasture between the months of April to June, which contributed to inefficiency in the utilization of proteics constituents, implying in lower intake, and decrease in performance.(AU)

Ergosterol isolated from the basidiomycete Pleurotus salmoneostramineus affects Trypanosoma cruzi plasma membrane and mitochondria

Abstract Background Major drawbacks of the available treatment against Chagas disease (American trypanosomiasis) include its toxicity and therapeutic inefficiency in the chronic phase of the infection, which makes it a concern among neglected diseases. Therefore, the discovery of alternative drugs for treating chronic Chagas disease requires immediate action. In this work, we evaluated the mushroom Pleurotus salmoneostramineus in the search for potential antiparasitic compounds. Methods Fruit bodies of the basidiomycete Pleurotus salmoneostramineus were triturated and submitted to organic solvent extraction. After liquid-liquid partition of the crude extract, three fractions were obtained and the bioguided fractionation study was conducted to isolate the active metabolites. The elucidation of the chemical structure was performed using GC-MS and NMR techniques. The biological assays for antiparasitic activity were carried out using trypomastigotes of Trypanosoma cruzi and murine macrophages for mammalian cytotoxicity. The mechanism of action of the isolated compound used different fluorescent probes to evaluate the plasma membrane permeability, the potential of the mitochondrial membrane and the intracellular levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Results The most abundant fraction showing the antiparasitic activity was isolated and chemically elucidated, confirming the presence of ergosterol. It showed anti-Trypanosoma cruzi activity against trypomastigotes, with an IC50 value of 51.3 g/mL. The compound demonstrated no cytotoxicity against mammalian cells to the maximal tested concentration of 200 g/mL. The mechanism of action of ergosterol in Trypanosoma cruzi trypomastigotes resulted in permeabilization of the plasma membrane, as well as depolarization of mitochondrial membrane potential, leading to parasite death. Nevertheless, no increase in ROS levels could be observed, suggesting damages to plasma membrane rather than an induction of oxidative stress in the parasite. Conclusions The selection of naturally antiparasitic secondary metabolites in basidiomycetes, such as ergosterol, may provide potential scaffolds for drug design studies against neglected diseases.

Ergosterol isolated from the basidiomycete Pleurotus salmoneostramineus affects Trypanosoma cruzi plasma membrane and mitochondria

Background Major drawbacks of the available treatment against Chagas disease (American trypanosomiasis) include its toxicity and therapeutic inefficiency in the chronic phase of the infection, which makes it a concern among neglected diseases. Therefore, the discovery of alternative drugs for treating chronic Chagas disease requires immediate action. In this work, we evaluated the mushroom Pleurotus salmoneostramineus in the search for potential antiparasitic compounds. Methods Fruit bodies of the basidiomycete Pleurotus salmoneostramineus were triturated and submitted to organic solvent extraction. After liquid-liquid partition of the crude extract, three fractions were obtained and the bioguided fractionation study was conducted to isolate the active metabolites. The elucidation of the chemical structure was performed using GC-MS and NMR techniques. The biological assays for antiparasitic activity were carried out using trypomastigotes of Trypanosoma cruzi and murine macrophages for mammalian cytotoxicity. The mechanism of action of the isolated compound used different fluorescent probes to evaluate the plasma membrane permeability, the potential of the mitochondrial membrane and the intracellular levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Results The most abundant fraction showing the antiparasitic activity was isolated and chemically elucidated, confirming the presence of ergosterol. It showed anti-Trypanosoma cruzi activity against trypomastigotes, with an IC50 value of 51.3 μg/mL. The compound demonstrated no cytotoxicity against mammalian cells to the maximal tested concentration of 200 μg/mL. The mechanism of action of ergosterol in Trypanosoma cruzi trypomastigotes resulted in permeabilization of the plasma membrane, as well as depolarization of mitochondrial membrane potential, leading to parasite death. Nevertheless, no increase in ROS levels could be observed, suggesting damages to plasma membrane rather than an induction of oxidative stress in the parasite. Conclusions The selection of naturally antiparasitic secondary metabolites in basidiomycetes, such as ergosterol, may provide potential scaffolds for drug design studies against neglected diseases.(AU)

Ergosterol isolated from the basidiomycete Pleurotus salmoneostramineus affects Trypanosoma cruzi plasma membrane and mitochondria

Background Major drawbacks of the available treatment against Chagas disease (American trypanosomiasis) include its toxicity and therapeutic inefficiency in the chronic phase of the infection, which makes it a concern among neglected diseases. Therefore, the discovery of alternative drugs for treating chronic Chagas disease requires immediate action. In this work, we evaluated the mushroom Pleurotus salmoneostramineus in the search for potential antiparasitic compounds. Methods Fruit bodies of the basidiomycete Pleurotus salmoneostramineus were triturated and submitted to organic solvent extraction. After liquid-liquid partition of the crude extract, three fractions were obtained and the bioguided fractionation study was conducted to isolate the active metabolites. The elucidation of the chemical structure was performed using GC-MS and NMR techniques. The biological assays for antiparasitic activity were carried out using trypomastigotes of Trypanosoma cruzi and murine macrophages for mammalian cytotoxicity. The mechanism of action of the isolated compound used different fluorescent probes to evaluate the plasma membrane permeability, the potential of the mitochondrial membrane and the intracellular levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Results The most abundant fraction showing the antiparasitic activity was isolated and chemically elucidated, confirming the presence of ergosterol. It showed anti-Trypanosoma cruzi activity against trypomastigotes, with an IC50 value of 51.3 μg/mL. The compound demonstrated no cytotoxicity against mammalian cells to the maximal tested concentration of 200 μg/mL. The mechanism of action of ergosterol in Trypanosoma cruzi trypomastigotes resulted in permeabilization of the plasma membrane, as well as depolarization of mitochondrial membrane potential, leading to parasite death. Nevertheless, no increase in ROS levels could be observed, suggesting damages to plasma membrane rather than an induction of oxidative stress in the parasite. Conclusions The selection of naturally antiparasitic secondary metabolites in basidiomycetes, such as ergosterol, may provide potential scaffolds for drug design studies against neglected diseases.(AU)

Assessment of tributyltin contamination based on imposex in Stramonita rustica (Mollusca: Gastropoda) along southern Bahia coast, northeastern Brazil / Avaliação da contaminação por tributil-estanho baseada em imposex em Stramonita rustica (Mollusca: Gastropoda) ao longo do Litoral Sul da Bahia

This study investigated the effects of tributyltin (TBT) on the morphology of the genital system of the gastropod Stramonita rustica in southern Bahia, Brazil. For this, 330 specimens were collected during the summer of 2014 at eight sampling points to ascertain whether male sex organs had developed in addition to the complete female genital tract in females (= imposex). The analyses were made under a stereoscopic microscope. Imposex and their associated indexes, and the sterile females, exhibited the highest rates in harbors and shipyards areas. Despite the total ban of TBT in anti-fouling paints on a global scale since 2003, the results of this and other studies indicate the continued use of those paints on the Brazilian coast. This shows the inefficiency of existing legislation and the need to strengthen enforcement of the ban.(AU)

Este estudo investigou os efeitos de tributil-estanho (TBT) sobre a morfologia do sistema genital do gastrópode Stramonita rustica (Lamarck, 1822) no Litoral Sul da Bahia, Brasil. Para isso, 330 espécimens foram coletados durante o verão de 2014 em oito pontos de amostragem, para verificar se os órgãos sexuais masculinos tinham se desenvolvido para além do trato genital feminino completo (= imposex). As análises foram feitas sob um microscópio estereoscópico. O imposex e seus índices associados, assim como as fêmeas estéreis, apresentaram as maiores taxas em áreas portuárias e estaleiros. Apesar da proibição total do TBT em tintas anti-incrustantes em escala global desde 2003, os resultados deste e de outros estudos indicam a continuidade de uso dessas tintas na costa brasileira. Isso mostra a ineficácia da legislação vigente e reforça a necessidade de se cumprir integralmente o banimento.(AU)