Chemical Characterization of spp. Extracts with Antifungal Activity against Cocoa Pathogens.

Ecuador is one of the major cocoa producers worldwide, but its productivity has lately been affected by diseases. Endophytic biocontrol agents have been used to minimize pathogenic effects; however, compounds produced by endophytes are minimally understood. This work presents the chemical characterization of the species extracts that proved inhibition against cocoa pathogens.

Evaluation of the sensitivity and synergistic effect of and mancozeb to inhibit under conditions the growth of .

Trichoderma is a saprophytic, soil-borne fungus with a worldwide distribution that has been extensively studied due to their capacity to synthesize secondary metabolites with antimicrobial activity, parasitize other fungi and directly interact with plant roots, inducing resistance to disease and tolerance to abiotic stresses. wilt caused by the soil-inhabiting fungus is considered one of the most important diseases that affect banana cultivars. Currently, more environmentally friendly alternatives to control this disease are being proposed, these strategies include the application of low doses of synthetic fungicides and the use of biocontrol agents such as or .

Intraovarian influence of bovine corpus luteum on oocyte morphometry and developmental competence, embryo production and cryotolerance.

Three experiments were conducted to determine influence of the bovine corpus luteum (CL) on morphometric and functional characteristics of oocytes, and subsequent embryonic development. Cumulus-oocyte complexes were aspirated from two types of cows: 1) with a CL in one ovary (CL+) and without a CL in the contralateral ovary (CL-), 2) and from cows without CL in either ovary (C). Intracellular activity of the enzyme glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH), oocyte diameter and thickness of the zona pellucida were determined (Experiment 1).

Preparing for rectal microbicides: sociocultural factors affecting product uptake among potential South American users.

Objectives: We examined views on rectal microbicides (RMs), a potential HIV prevention option, among men who have sex with men and transgender women in 3 South American cities.

Methods: During September 2009 to September 2010, we conducted 10 focus groups and 36 in-depth interviews (n = 140) in Lima and Iquitos, Peru, and Guayaquil, Ecuador, to examine 5 RM domains: knowledge, thoughts and opinions about RM as an HIV prevention tool, use, condoms, and social concerns. We coded emergent themes in recorded and transcribed data sets and extracted representative quotes.