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Determining the efficacy of extracted propolis as a fungicide against Ascosphaera apis and Aspergillus niger
No full textPropolis is a product that bees produce by collecting various materials in the surroundings and is known to have antifungal properties. Through time the number of fungi that causes death to bee colonies such as Ascosphaera apis and Aspergillus niger has increased causing a decrease in the bee population and problems for the beekeepers. Hence, studies to identify antifungal agents to fight against these fungi have been conducted in various countries. However, the possible utilization of propolis as antifungal agent against the fungi that affect them has not been studied. Conversely, this study aims to determine whether the extracted propolis can be used to battle against the two previously mentioned fungi. The specific objectives of this study are to extract propolis through maceration using ethanol as the solvent, to chemically characterize the sample through gas chromatography/mass spectrometer (GCMS), and to test its antifungal property against Ascosphaera apis and Aspergillhus niger. The extraction was done using a shaker where the crude propolis was macerated. Afterwards, it was filtered, underwent rotary evaporation and the solid extract underwent GCMS where its chemical composition was determined. From this, the agar well diffusion method was used to determine its inhibitory activity recorded with the inhibition zones. The results of the experiment showed that the 1:9 concentration of extracted propolis macerated at a l:4 ethanol concentration for 6 hours has no significant antifungal activity against Aspergillus niger and no concludable antifungal activity against Ascosphaera apis. It is recommended to optimize the extraction and antifungal testing of stingless bee propolis. to further explore its antifungal properties
Agrobacterium-mediated Genetic Transformation and Plant Regeneration from Cotyledons in Philippine Eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) Acc. ‘PH 11424’
No full textEggplant (Solanum melongena L.) is one of the most important vegetables grown and consumed in the Philippines hence, continuous breeding programs are vital to maintain the supply of this economically important crop. This study demonstrates the first successful Agrobacterium-mediated genetic transformation and plant regeneration of the Philippine eggplant cultivar ‘PH 11424’, also known as ‘Mistisa’. Cotyledons from 2-wk-old seedlings were used as explants, which were transformed with disarmed Agrobacterium tumefaciens strain LBA4404 harboring a binary vector for CRISPR/Cas9 expression and hygromycin phosphotransferase (HPT), an antibiotic selection marker. Growth of shoot primordia from the agro-infected explants was observed during selective culture with 7.5 ppm hygromycin, which indicated an initial success in transformation. The putatively transformed shoot primordia were then transferred to an elongation medium. The elongated and hygromycin-resistant shoots were allowed to develop roots in hormone-free medium supplemented with hygromycin, and subsequently acclimatized under greenhouse conditions. The entire process took at least 5 – 6 mo. Of the total 585 agro-infected explants, the regeneration efficiency of rooted shoots was 4.6%. Successful transformation was confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of Cas9. Acclimatized plants tested positive for both transgenes. The surviving transgenic eggplants successfully reached maturity, flowered and set seed. These results demonstrate a working Agrobacterium-mediated transformation and plant regeneration protocols using cotyledons as explants in a Philippine eggplant genotype. These biotechnology tools are critical for the successful application of genetic engineering (GE) and new breeding techniques (NBTs) in eggplant crop improvement
Simulated Transport of Silver Therapon (Leiopotherapon plumbeus) Fingerlings at Different Durations and Loading Densities: Effects on Survival and Water Quality
No full textThe silver therapon, Leiopotherapon plumbeus, is a new species for aquaculture. However, information on the optimal conditions for the transport of this species for grow-out culture needs to be established to avoid stress and unnecessary mortalities. This study examined the effects of duration of transport and loading density on survival and water quality during simulated transport of silver therapon. Hatchery-produced fingerlings [1.30 ± 0.34 g body weight (BW); 44.30 ± 3.77 mm total length (TL)] were held in double-layered oxygenated plastic bags at three transport durations (6 h, 9 h, and 12 h) and densities (40, 80, and 120 fish bag-1) in triplicates. Mean survival rates were not significantly affected by both duration of transport (P = 0.321) and loading density (P = 0.345). However, a highly significant effect of duration of transport on dissolved oxygen (DO) and pH (P = 0.000), and a significant effect on Total Ammonia Nitrogen (TAN; P = 0.039) and total bacterial count (TBC; P = 0.034) were evident. Similarly, water quality parameters were significantly influenced by loading density (P = 0.000), with lower DO and pH levels, and higher TAN and TBC recorded at 120 fish bag-1 density. Since a very high survival rate (\u3e 99%) is achieved at the highest loading density of 120 fish bag-1 up to 12 h transport, this density can be recommended to transport silver therapon fingerlings. Chemical treatments using either salt, methylene blue, or tropical almond leaf extract in transport water may be used to reduce the high bacterial count during transport
Philippines : Why increase in Research and Development (R&D) for Agriculture and Fisheries is needed?
No full textStock Market, Exchange Rate, and Foreign Capital Flows Linkages in the Philippines
No full textThis paper aims to provide empirical evidence on the relationship among stock market return, exchange rate return, and foreign capital flows before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study utilized secondary daily data on Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi), six sectoral indices (Financial, Holding Firms, Property, Industrial, Services, Mining & Oil), USDPHP exchange rate, and total net foreign buying/selling in all securities listed in the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE). The data covers the period from January 5, 2016 to May 4, 2023. Applying Granger Causality, the results show that the pandemic disrupted the usual relationship among the variables as compared to pre-pandemic results. The results imply that the pandemic became critical in influencing foreign investor behavior. Continued monitoring of the stock market, exchange rates, and foreign investment is crucial to understand if pre-pandemic relationships return or if new dynamics emerge on post-pandemic period
Examining the Music Industry in the Philippines: UPLB Students\u27 Demand for Music CD Albums
No full textThis study aimed to provide observations regarding the behavior of undergraduate students with regards to physical albums. Despite the availability of several music streaming services with and without ads, there is an observed rise in the sales of physical albums. With this, the study identified the listening behavior of undergraduate students in UPLB to music.
Using the theory of demand, the study also provided information about undergraduate students’ reasons for physical album ownership and the significant factors that affects it. Using the binary logistic regression, as well as the odds ratio and marginal effects, the study was able to achieve its objectives. It provides general opinions of undergraduate students regarding music and album characteristics and reasons of their ownership/non- ownership of physical albums. Moreover, it proves that sex, possession of music-related goods, association of physical album to nostalgia, media longevity, and perceived sense of self-identity are significant in influencing the decisions of UPLB undergraduates to own a physical album
The Relationship of the Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Index (CMCI) Program on the Economic Growth of the Philippines from 2017-2022
No full textThis study utilizes the data from the Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Index (CMCI), a point system program launched by the Department of Trade and Industry – Competitiveness Bureau that aims to induce competitiveness within the LGUs of the Philippines. The framework of this program has similarities with the Global Competitiveness Index (GCI) wherein instead of countries around the world, the LGUs within the Philippines are ranked given their scores. Through the scores generated in this index, the researcher explores the possibility of a relationship between this program and the economic growth of the Philippines from 2017-2022. Moreover, an in-depth analysis is also conducted on one of the pillars of this program which is the Economic Dynamism pillar. Data on the CMCI program were gathered from the portal of DTI-CB. The scores were averaged from the LGU up to the regional level. On the other hand, the data on the economic growth of the Philippines were obtained from the PSA website which had regional GDP growth available. Using panel data regression, the results showed that the pillars have a significant relationship with economic growth, however, not all have a positive coefficient when regressed. Additionally, the economic dynamism pillar scores were simplified into three components using the Principal Component Analysis that represent the subcategories as a whole to simplify the parameters of scoring in this pillar. These components were then regressed with the GDP growth as well and the first component was found to be the lone significant component, however it carried a negative coefficient
Factors Affecting Credit Decisions of Pineapple Farmers in Basud, Camarines Norte
No full textThe general objective of this study was to analyze the factors affecting the credit decisions of pineapple farmers in Basud, Camarines Norte. Specifically, this study aimed to (1) present the socio-demographic profile, farm profile, and credit profile of pineapple farmers in Basud, Camarines Norte; (2) discuss the pineapple farmers’ experiences in borrowing from formal and informal credit sources; (3) determine the perceptions of the farmers regarding accessibility and availability of formal and informal credit; (4) analyze the factors that affect the credit decision of pineapple farmers; (5) assess the profitability of farmers who borrowed from formal and informal credit sources; and (6) formulate recommendations to address the identified problems. Primary data were gathered through face-to-face interviews with 76 pineapple farmers in Basud, Camarines Norte, selected through snowball sampling, and interviewed one by one with the aid of a questionnaire. The study used a descriptive research design with binary logistic regression and cost and return analysis as the analytical tools used. The results of the study showed that farmers aged 51-60 years old comprised the largest percentage (36.8%). Majority of the respondents are women, married, high school graduates, and have an average of four children. Additionally, the number of children under 18 residing in the respondents\u27 households ranges from 0 to 3 while the number of children over 18 residing in these households ranges from 0 to 6. The majority of respondents have other sources of income. Their average monthly income, excluding income from pineapple production, is Php 11,842. Meanwhile, the average monthly household expense is Php 10,611.4. The study\u27s findings on the farm profile indicate that the average farm size is 3.68 hectares, and the average land area used for pineapple production is 0.74 hectares. Moreover, the largest farm size recorded is 20 hectares, with 3 hectares as the largest farm size dedicated to pineapple farming. Most of the 76 respondents also cultivate other crops, mainly coconut. Their farming experience ranges from 3 to 48 years, with an average of one family member involved in pineapple farming. The primary motivation of 7 the farmers for growing pineapples is the high-income potential. Additionally, about 53.95% of respondents own their land and all 76 farmers grow the Queen Formosa pineapple variety. Meanwhile, capital requirements range from Php 8,440 to Php 256,020, with most farmers relying on loans. Moreover, pricing is largely controlled by traders who also provide price information to farmers. Most farmers sell their produce to traders, with a small portion selling to retailers and wholesalers. Furthermore, only 23 respondents are cooperative members, and 19 of these have taken out loans. Regarding credit profiles, 88.16% of the 76 farmers have credit experience. The majority borrowed for farm operations, while the rest borrowed for other purposes. Farmers have an average borrowing experience of 10.11 years and 49 farmers currently have outstanding loans. The primary loan source is banks, with 49.38% of loans were used for pineapple farming. The average loan amount is Php 42,867.09, with an average nominal interest rate of 8.79% and an effective interest rate of 70.28%. Loans typically mature in 475.77 days, with a renewal period of 307.73 days. Weekly payments are required for 40.3% of loan accounts. Moreover, the interest rate is the primary consideration of farmers when choosing a loan source. Furthermore, most respondents keep loan payment records in a passbook, and the majority of those with outstanding loans have not missed payments. The 76 pineapple farmers in the study had varied experiences with accessing and obtaining credit. Most had positive experiences with formal credit sources, with fast processing times and easy application requirements, often through cooperatives and microfinance rural banks. However, some faced challenges like high interest rates and stricter requirements, typically from banks. Similarly, most farmers had favorable experiences with informal lenders, primarily friends or relatives, due to the absence of interest charges. Some, however, were compelled to sell their produce at lower prices to traders who lent them money, and others encountered high interest rates from private money lenders. Regarding problems in credit access, most farmers reported no significant issues with formal sources, though some experienced long processing times and difficulties with lump-sum repayments at maturity. Meanwhile, while most farmers had positive experiences with informal lenders, some faced challenges with repayment methods. On the other hand, in terms of accessibility and availability, both formal and 8 informal credit sources were generally considered available and accessible in various aspects, including physical, financial, administrative, social, and informational. Furthermore, the binary logistic regression analysis revealed two significant factors influencing credit availment among pineapple farmers: other income sources and the number of family members involved in farming. Farmers with additional income sources were less likely to borrow money. Conversely, households with more family members involved in pineapple farming were more likely to avail credit. In addition, using the same statistical analysis, it was found that pineapple farmers with other sources of income, higher net income from pineapple, and higher educational attainment prefer formal credit. Meanwhile, male and married farmers tend to choose informal credit sources. Lastly, the cost and return analysis showed that pineapple farmers who secured loans from formal sources had higher profit margins compared to those who borrowed from informal sources
Factors Affecting the Consumer Purchasing Behavior Towards Coffee Beverages in Los Baños, Laguna
No full textThe study aimed to understand Factors Affecting the Consumer Purchasing Behavior Towards Coffee Beverages in Los Baños, Laguna. The objectives of this study were specifically to: (1) characterize the profile of Los Baños’ coffee beverage consumers, (2) describe their purchasing behavior for coffee, (3) analyze the factors influencing their purchasing behavior, and (4) provide recommendations for coffee businesses based on the findings.
Given the study\u27s objectives, the consumer\u27s characteristics, such as sociodemographic profile, purchase behavior, were attained through descriptive analysis, likert scales, and cross tabulation.
The description of the 69 respondents\u27 sociodemographic characteristics answers the first objective. The results indicate that most (62.31%) of the respondents are females. The majority of the respondents are students (52.17%). With most of the respondents fall being under the age range of 18 to 24 years old (65.21%). Educational attainment was varied, with a notable concentration of respondents at the college level (66.67%). Suggesting that a majority of coffee consumers are either pursuing or have completed higher education. While the monthly income and allowances of coffee consumers vary, the results having a higher concentration on the 2500-5000 pesos range coincide with how the concentration of consumers according to the results is under the 18 to 24 age range.
Responses indicate that consumers purchase coffee for its energizing effects, to conduct social interactions, taste and relactation, showing its role as both a functional drink and a cultural practice. Spending patterns varied, with some opting for cheaper options and others prioritizing quality and experience. This shows that coffee consumption aligns with individual budgets and preferences, making it both an occasional treat and a daily necessity. Cafes are the preferred venues for consumption, offering more than just beverages by enhancing the overall experience with ambiance. While others prefer to drink their coffee somewhere else for convenience. Additionally, there is a notable preference for iced coffee, especially in warmer climates, highlighting coffee\u27s adaptability.
Most consumers (43.50%) buy coffee from cafés two or more times per week, with 2.90% purchasing twice daily and 14.50% buying one cup every day, indicating coffee as part of their daily routine. Additionally, 20.30% buy coffee weekly, while 10.14% buy coffee only once a month, suggesting occasional consumption.
It was also highlighted that there are different coffee purchase times among consumers. The afternoon (2pm - 6pm) is the most frequented time, with 39.00% of respondents purchasing coffee then. Morning hours (8am - 12pm) are favored by 22.00% for an early caffeine boost. Additionally, 11.00% buy coffee after dinner (8pm onwards), often using it with or instead of meals. Lunchtime (12pm - 2pm) is another notable period, with 14.00% purchasing coffee during lunch breaks.
Taste and quality were the most significant factors in coffee purchase behavior. Convenience and aroma were also important.While packaging, advertising, promotions, brand reputation, and acquaintances\u27 opinions were secondary to taste and quality. Acidity and coffee bean origin were less influential.
Moreover, this results recommends that cafes can utilize certain marketing strategies such as promotions, examples being frequency cards and discounts on certain hours.
Lastly, it is recommended that future researchers explore, expand on the number of respondents and include other relevant consumer characteristics and other aspects of purchase behaviors that can be the foundation of their study
Effects of Soil Type, Irrigation Method, and Biomass Application on Grain Yield and Its Determinants in Irrigated Lowland Rice of Agusan [RESEARCH NOTE]
Get PDFInformation about the influence of soil type, irrigation method, and biomass use on rice productivity in Agusan is insufficient, despite their importance in developing or improving irrigated lowland rice production. Hence, this study determined the influence of these factors on grain yield and yield-contributing crop traits. It also explained grain yield based on yield determinants and recommended water management for improving grain yield. The greenhouse experiment was laid out in a three-factor randomized complete block design with 10 replications. The treatments were [a] Butuan sandy loam soil (SLS) and Butuan loam soil (LS); [b] continuously flooded (CF) and controlled irrigation (CI); and [c] applied and unapplied biomass. Data on grain yield and yield determinants were gathered weekly, during harvesting, and after harvesting. Relative to LS, SLS had a statistically greater grain output owing to its higher root and water permeability and better balance among soil nutrients, leading to closer-to-the-optimum soil nutrient uptakes and better yield-contributing crop traits. Compared with CI, CF had a statistically superior grain output as it induced the crop to produce more robust tillers, leading to significantly better yield-contributing crop characteristics. Biomass application modified the soil type x irrigation method interaction since the degree at which CF was exhibiting higher grain yield than CI was significantly greater in SLS than LS for experimental units or pots applied with biomass. Moreover, the level at which CF was attaining greater grain yield than CI was statistically similar in SLS and LS for pots unapplied with biomass. It is therefore recommended that rice be grown in Butuan sandy loam instead of Butuan loam, and that CF instead of CI be used in soil with a mild zinc deficiency or sufficient zinc status