University Knowledge Digital Repository UPLB (University of the Philippines Los Baños)
University Knowledge Digital Repository UPLB (University of the Philippines Los Baños)Not a member yet
25810 research outputs found
Sort by
Assessment of the potential occurrence of streptococcus spp. And tilapia lake virus in a selected area in Sampaloc Lake, San Pablo City, laguna
No full textTilapia is one of the Philippines’ most economically and nutritionally significant aquaculture species. However, the sustainability of tilapia farming is threatened by two major aquatic pathogens, namely Streptococcus spp. and Tilapia Lake Virus (TiLV), both of which can cause mortality rates of up to 90% during mass outbreaks. This study investigates the potential occurrence of these pathogens in Sampaloc Lake, San Pablo City, Laguna, a significant site of intensive Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) aquaculture in the Philippines. The research aimed to assess water quality parameters, perform fish necropsies, detect Streptococcus spp. through microbiological testing, and confirm TiLV presence using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing. Conducted under the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Regional Office in Los Baños, Laguna, the study included on-site water and fish sampling and analysis, along with laboratory testing for pathogens. Findings demonstrated that five out of seven parameters, specifically water color, temperature, salinity, turbidity, and ammonia, were within the recommended standards. Fish necropsy revealed all normal external and internal clinical signs of the tilapia samples. However, the presence of Streptococcus spp. was detected during Gram staining in microbiological testing. The sample tested negative for TiLV. These findings highlight that despite the water being relatively clean, the fish appearing to be in good health, and TiLV being absent, there are carriers of Streptococcus spp. in the tilapia of Sampaloc Lake. To mitigate risks, the following actions are recommended: (1) maintain regular monitoring of water quality to support long-term data collection and policy development; (2) perform routine necropsies on tilapia to detect early signs of disease; (3) enforce microbiological testing of fingerlings before relocation to prevent disease spread; and (4) utilize PCR testing only when abnormalities are observed to ensure cost-effective surveillance. These efforts support sustainable aquaculture practices for disease management
Quantitative assessment of classroom acoustics and its impact on student reception at UP Rural High School
No full textThis research examines the relationship between classroom acoustics and student reception at the University of the Philippines Rural High School (UPRHS). It focuses on how different room types, seating position in the classroom, and sound levels influence students’ ability to perceive spoken information. Four classrooms, two air-conditioned (MB 101, MB 110) and two non-air-conditioned (MB 104, MB 107), were assessed using three different sound levels: 70 dB, 80 dB, and 90 dB. Students in a 4 rows by 7 columns seating orientation were assigned to occupy three columns (1st column, 4th column, and 7th column) on each of the 4 rows except the 4th column, which only occupies 3 rows. They were asked to listen and write down words they would hear from a speaker, with reception measured by the number of correctly identified words. Results showed that air-conditioned classrooms produced significantly higher reception scores at 70 dB and 80 dB compared to non-air-conditioned rooms. However, at 90 dB, all classrooms, with or without aircon, showed a drop in the reception scores and their difference is no longer significant. Statistical analysis using a Paired-Samples t-test confirmed this finding, corresponding with auditory safety guidelines that identify 90 dB as a threshold where sound clarity declines. Moreover, seating position, both by row and column, did not affect student scores, as confirmed by the Kruskal-Wallis test results. Although some minor variations were observed through a descriptive analysis, they were not significant. These findings highlight that sound level and room acoustics, especially the presence of air-conditioning, play a greater role in student reception than seating position. Therefore, this study suggests that maintaining sound levels, around 70 db and 80 db, and improving classroom acoustic design, through architectural adjustments like air-conditioning, can enhance speech perception and facilitate improved classroom environments
Simulating predator-prey dynamics between clown knifefish (Chitala ornata) and ayungin (Leiopotherapan plumbeus) using agent-based modeling
No full textAmong the multiple threats to biodiversity in the Philippines, the introduction of non-native species continues to threaten the population of local, economically important fish. The clown knifefish (C. ornata), believed to have been brought into the Philippines for ornamental purposes, has established itself as a dominating predator in the Laguna de Bay, contributing to the decline of several native species, including L. plumbeus, an economically important species in the area. In this study, we aim to simulate the predator-prey dynamics between the invasive C. ornata and the endemic L. plumbeus in a simulated freshwater environment using agent-based modeling achieved through Netlogo. By integrating biological variables, including sex, age, energy, and reproductive seasons, along with environmental factors such as temperature and turbidity, this research aims to identify the key factors influencing the interaction between the two species and predict potential population dynamics and trends. The environment includes food for the native species. The invasive species preys on the native species but is also able to eat the same food as the native species under specific conditions. The specifics of their behavior, such as reproduction, movement, and lifespan, are based on previous studies. The results indicate that ambient water temperature, turbidity, mating season, initial population sizes, and the timing for the introduction of C. ornata. play an important role in the predator-prey dynamics of L. plumbeus and C. ornata. The model can potentially be used to simulate real-world scenarios to aid in conservation efforts, particularly in freshwater bodies like the Laguna de Bay, mapping population trends of freshwater invasive species and assessing the risks they pose to native population
Research intership at the Institute of Food Science and Technology University of the Philippines Los Baños on the feasibility of freeze-drying agricultural commodities
No full textFreeze-drying is a food processing technique increasingly recognized for its ability to preserve the nutritional quality and shelf life of agricultural commodities. These characteristics of freeze-dried products make them a potential solution for emergency food packs distributed in evacuation centers. The proponents conducted a research internship at the Institute of Food Science and Technology, UPLB to assess the technical feasibility of producing freeze-dried coconut milk, calamansi juice, and pineapple flesh. The research internship equipped the proponents with the knowledge and skills necessary for conducting freeze-drying research. The protocols established during the internship were used to determine the factors that may affect the freeze-drying procedure across the three commodities. The proponents actively participated in conducting laboratory tests (i.e. proximate analyses, microanalysis, and accelerated shelf life testing) to evaluate the quality of freeze-dried commodities. Secondary data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) were used to analyze the production volume and consumption pattern of the three agricultural commodities. This determines whether freeze-dried products are viable for mass production across Region IV-A. The research findings indicate that the pretreatment, freezing and drying time, and texture of the raw material were variables that may affect the quality of the freeze-dried products. These variables may be optimized to determine the most cost-efficient protocol that will produce high-quality freeze-dried products. Moreover, data shows that there is a consistent level of production of the three agricultural commodities in the region. These findings support that it is feasible to produce freeze-dried coconut milk, calamansi juice and pineapple from Region IV-A. However, the high cost of freeze-drying remains a key barrier to widespread, cost-free distribution in evacuation centers. Ultimately, the study argues that while freeze-drying is a technically viable method for preserving local produce for disaster response, its potential will only be fully realized if the cost barriers are addressed
Pakikisama and respect in a modern context : an exploratory study on the perceptions of Gen Zs in Los Baños, Laguna
No full textThe younger generations, particularly Gen Z, are more exposed to different ideologies and values due to globalization and technology, pushing them to reassess inherited practices such as traditional Filipino family values. This research aims to explore the perspectives of Filipino Gen Zs on the two Filipino values: Pakikisama and Respect. Pakikisama is the Filipino value of maintaining harmony through cooperation and unity, while respect involves treating others, especially elders, with kindness and consideration. Although there is an ample amount of research on generational values, there is a relevant research gap regarding the changing values of Generation Z and how they are implemented in real-world situations. Using a qualitative exploratory approach, the researchers conducted semi-structured, face-to-face interviews with participants residing in Los Baños, aged 18 to 25 who live in extended family setups. The collected data were transcribed and analyzed using thematic analysis which yielded six major themes. The results revealed that Gen Zs still observe the traditional values of respect and pakikisama but practice them in a manner that highlights mutual respect, understanding, and emotional balance. Although family still plays a major role in instilling these values, the participants entail respect not as blind obedience but rather as a value backed by empathy and character. Pakikisama is also regarded less as mandatory but dependent on the situation. The interdependence of both values is deeply understood by the participants, even though they have the choice to practice them independently and employ them based on intention. This calls upon transition towards more reflective and flexible exegeses or implementations of tradition. Such findings imply the necessity for family education programs with value-based programs that would possibly balance the two worlds of traditionalism and modernism, intergenerational dialogue initiatives to negotiate differences in value perspectives, and community-based frameworks
Research-internship at the Dairy Training and Research Institute (DTRi) College of Agriculture and Food Science with the mini study entitled churning out results: developing and assessing marketing materials perception for DTRI farm hub
No full textThis research-internship aimed to develop and evaluate nine marketing materials for DTRI Farm Hub to enhance its promotional strategies. The materials included a promotional video, Facebook Reel/TikTok video, brochure, poster, memes, infographics, product photos with nutritional facts, post templates, and a business card. Guided by marketing principles such as brand storytelling, accessibility, and audience engagement, these materials were evaluated through an online Qualtrics survey involving 15 DTRI employees and 25 UP Rural High School (UPRHS) senior high school students—representing 10% of their respective populations. Respondents rated each material based on clarity, relevance to their interest, visual appeal, likelihood of recommending DTRI Farm Hub based on the material, and overall effectiveness. Statistical analysis using Jamovi revealed that the assumption of normality was not met for all of the marketing materials (all Shapiro-Wilk p-values \u3c 0.0001); thus, Kruskal-Wallis tests were applied. Results showed that occupation significantly influenced responses to posters (p = 0.0441) and infographics (p = 0.0414). The brochure received the highest mean rating (18.5000–20.0000), followed by the promotional video and Facebook Reel/TikTok video (15.0000–20.0000). Younger respondents (16–18) favored the brochure (Mean = 19.3182), while older groups preferred video content. Ethical protocols, including informed consent and compliance with RA 10173 (Data Privacy Act of 2012), were strictly observed. Recommendations include: increase use of marketing materials, expand social media presence and engagement, tailor content by age group, and increase the number of participants in marketing material assessment. The findings will help future DTRI marketing efforts to improve audience reach and engagement
Analyzing Disciplinary and Sex-Based Differences in the Research Productivity of UPLB Faculty
No full textThe publish or perish paradigm has become a prevalent measure of success in academia, driving institutions like the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) to prioritize research productivity (RP) as a key indicator of institutional prestige and faculty advancement. However, prevailing discrimination models and institutional structures raise concerns about potential sex-based and disciplinary disparities in publication output. In light of this, the study investigated whether significant differences exist in the research productivity of UPLB faculty based on total, Scopus-indexed, and Web of Science-indexed publications, disaggregated by sex and academic discipline.
Using descriptive statistics, logistic regression, Propensity Score Matching, and Inverse Probability Weighted Regression Adjustment, the study found no statistically significant differences in RP between sexes, suggesting progress toward parity. However, pronounced disparities emerged across academic disciplines, with Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) faculty significantly outperforming their Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences (HASS) counterparts across all bibliometric indicators. Notably, while differences between sex-discipline groups were significant, sex-based differences within the same discipline were generally negligible. These findings highlight that while institutional efforts may have reduced sex-based productivity gaps, persistent disciplinary imbalances remain. This disparity aligns with institutional economic theories, which suggest that research performance improves with supportive institutional arrangements such as increased access to funding and resources
Reusability of immobilized lipase for monoacylglycerol production by alcoholysis of coconut oil
No full textPINEDA, JOCELYN A. University of the Philippines at Los Banos. March 1999. Reusability of Immobilized Lipase for Monoacylglycerol Production by Alcoholysis of Coconut Oil.
Adviser: Dr. Eugenia Magpantay Castillo
Immobilized lipase from Rhizopus delemar with a protein content of 4.93 mg/mL and a specific activity of 22.47 U/mg was used to catalyze the production of monoacylglycerol (MAG) using alcoholysis process. The percentage MAG produced and the change in lipolytic activity (LA) were monitored to determine the reusability of the immobilized enzyme.
Results showed that highest amount of 67.57% MAG was obtained after the first use. A decrease of 63.77% on the amount of MAG was noted after the second use but remained constant (24.00%) after the third and fourth reuse. The enzyme was still active with a lipolytic activity of 39.62 U, using a shake flask system, indicating the enzyme stability toward repeated alcoholysis reaction.
Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) and High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) were used to identify and quantitate the monoacylglycerol produced
Comparison of phenolics in two varieties of corn (Philippine DMR composite I downey mildew resistant) and pop-corn susceptible variety
No full textn/
The Relationship Between the Incidence of Stunted Children and Household Sanitation in Selected Regions in the Philippines
No full textStunting remains a significant public health challenge in the Philippines, affecting one in four children. This issue is worsened by inadequate household sanitation, with many households lacking clean water and proper toilet facilities, and some still practicing open defecation. This study analyzed the relationship between the incidence of stunted children and household sanitation in Region V - Bicol Region, Region VI - Western Visayas, and Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) using the 2018, 2019, and 2021 Expanded National Nutrition Survey. Among the three regions analyzed, BARMM shows the highest prevalence of stunting which is attributed to limited access to improved sanitation facilities, low access to electricity, lower household income levels, younger household heads, larger household sizes, and lower educational attainment among household heads. Using Poisson regression, the results indicate that access to water-sealed toilets contributed in having lower stunting incidence in Regions VI and BARMM. However, in BARMM, even non-water-sealed toilets had a significant association with reduced stunting. Toilet facilities and stunting incidence in Region V are not considered related. Interestingly, access to improved drinking water was not statistically significant in any region. Socioeconomic factors such as household head age, income quintile, and household size are consistently significant predictors across all regions, while variables like access to electricity, educational attainment, and survey year are significant in few regions only. Providing proper toilet facilities can play a crucial role in reducing child stunting. Further research in other regions is essential to better understand these relationships and their implications nationwide