College of Agriculture, Resources and Environmental Sciences

Morphological characterization and pH analysis of microorganisms from the chicken meat in selected markets of Jaro, Iloilo City

Thu, 01 May 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Morphological characterization and pH analysis of microorganisms from the chicken meat in selected markets of Jaro, Iloilo City Biatan, Christel C. Poultry and livestock industries were prime contributors to agricultural outputs, which correlates with the growth of the human population. While poultry is an important protein source that provides job opportunities and additional livelihood, microbial contamination poses a constant threat to the safety and quality of chicken products sold in a few market sources, from local to international markets around the world. This study investigates the morphological characterization of microorganisms present on chicken meat sold in various areas in Jaro, Iloilo City. The study's findings reveal the presence of various species of microorganisms that can harm consumers' health and overall wellbeing. This study also emphasizes the importance of meat pH as an indication that presents the hastening spoilage rate of the meat with the presence of alkaline-loving bacteria that affect the chemical composition of the meat in the long run. The researcher suggests a need for a thorough evaluation, and a series of biochemical tests must be added to identify the microorganism properly. The study promotes awareness of the crucial role of proper handling of meat products, sanitation practices and improved preservation procedures are also a must. Investing in these kinds of studies is not only recommended; hence, it is vital. Abstract only

Bivalent oral vaccine using attenuated salmonella gallinarum delivering HA and NA-M2E confers dual protection against H9N2 avian influenza and fowl typhoid in chickens

Fri, 25 Jul 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Bivalent oral vaccine using attenuated salmonella gallinarum delivering HA and NA-M2E confers dual protection against H9N2 avian influenza and fowl typhoid in chickens Bakhsh, Muhammad; Senevirathne, Amal; Riaz, Jamal; Kwon, Jun; Aganja, Ram Prasad; Cabarles, Jaime C.; Oh, Sang-Ik; Lee, John Hwa Background: Fowl typhoid (FT), a septicemic infection caused by Salmonella Gallinarum (SG), and H9N2 avian influenza are two economically important diseases that significantly affect the global poultry industry. Methods: We exploited the live attenuated Salmonella Gallinarum (SG) mutant JOL3062 (SG: ∆lon ∆pagL ∆asd) as a delivery system for H9N2 antigens to induce an immunoprotective response against both H9N2 and FT. To enhance immune protection against H9N2, a prokaryotic and eukaryotic dual expression plasmid, pJHL270, was employed. The hemagglutinin (HA) consensus sequence from South Korean avian influenza A virus (AIV) was cloned under the Ptrc promoter for prokaryotic expression, and the B cell epitope of neuraminidase (NA) linked with matrix protein 2 (M2e) was placed for eukaryotic expression. In vitro and in vivo expressions of the H9N2 antigens were validated by qRT-PCR and Western blot, respectively. Results: Oral immunization with JOL3121 induced a significant increase in SG and H9N2-specific serum IgY and cloacal swab IgA antibodies, confirming humoral and mucosal immune responses. Furthermore, FACS analysis showed increased CD4+ and CD8+ T cell populations. On day 28 post-immunization, there was a substantial rise in the hemagglutination inhibition titer in the immunized birds, demonstrating neutralization capabilities of immunization. Both IFN-γ and IL-4 demonstrated a significant increase, indicating a balance of Th1 and Th2 responses. Intranasal challenge with the H9N2 Y280 strain resulted in minimal to no clinical signs with significantly lower lung viral titer in the JOL3121 group. Upon SG wildtype challenge, the immunized birds in the JOL3121 group yielded 20% mortality, while 80% mortality was recorded in the PBS control group. Additionally, bacterial load in the spleen and liver was significantly lower in the immunized birds. Conclusions: The current vaccine model, designed with a host-specific pathogen, SG, delivers a robust immune boost that could enhance dual protection against FT and H9N2 infection, both being significant diseases in poultry, as well as ensure public health. Journal article DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines13080790

Knowledge on mangroves and mangrove conservation practices of households in Coastal Barangays of Barotac Viejo, Iloilo

Thu, 01 May 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Knowledge on mangroves and mangrove conservation practices of households in Coastal Barangays of Barotac Viejo, Iloilo Vecino, Naomi Heart G. This study was conducted to assess the level of knowledge about mangrove ecosystems and mangrove conservation practices of households along the coastal barangays of Barotac Viejo, Iloilo. The one-shot survey design using a researcher made questionnaire was used in gathering data needed from 303 respondents. All data were processed and analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25. The results revealed that the respondents were generally 31–45 years old, Roman Catholic, married, female, and non-occupational (housewives, students and senior citizens) with secondary high school level of education and had below Php 2,000 up to Php 4,000monthly income. The respondents have moderate to high level of knowledge with moderate level of practice. There was a significant relationship between respondent’s monthly income and their level of knowledge but there was no significant relationship between knowledge and age, sex, religion, civil status and educational attainment. There was no significant relationship between the level of practice and the respondent’s demographic profile. A significant relationship was found between the knowledge about mangrove ecosystems and mangrove conservation practices among households along the coastal barangays in Barotac Viejo, Iloilo. Abstract only

Field testing and evaluation of a solar-powered irrigation system in Bantud Fabrica, Dumangas, Iloilo

Thu, 01 May 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Field testing and evaluation of a solar-powered irrigation system in Bantud Fabrica, Dumangas, Iloilo Cawaling, Mherc Ranniel M.; Fabale, Franklin J. This study evaluates the field performance of the Bantud Fabrica Solar-Powered Irrigation System in Dumangas, Iloilo, to determine the efficiency of the pump set and the PV system in wet and dry seasons. Field testing was conducted over three days for each season, following the PNS/BAFS 325. Data were measured and calculated to determine the efficiency of the project. Results indicate that during the wet season, Pump 1 exhibited an average discharge of 108.01 m³/hr with a system efficiency of11.41% and 75.94% pump set efficiency, while Pump 2 had a lower discharge of 97.15 m³/hr with a system efficiency of 7.51% and pump set efficiency of 53.87%. On the other hand, in dry season, Pump 1 exhibited an average discharge of 98.08 m³/hr with a system efficiency of 3.99% and 65.40% pump set efficiency, while Pump 2 had a lower discharge of 87.18 m³/hr with a system efficiency of 3.69% and pump set efficiency of 49.33%. Overall, the BF-SPIS led to a 13.63% increase in rice yield, highlighting its positive impact on agricultural productivity. It is recommended to improve the conveyance and resupply project for the water reservoir, divert the excess solar energy to the grid by having hybridization of the system for it to function at night, increase the capacity of the water reservoir, and improve conveyance for water delivery in the field, reinspection and modification of the solar panel set up and lastly conducting a cost-benefit analysis for the BF-SPIS economic viability and overall benefits. Abstract only