Showing papers in "Philippine Agricultural Scientist in 2010"

Comparative analysis of energy efficiency in organic and conventional farming systems: a case study of black carrot (Daucus carota L.) production in Turkey.

Abstract: This study compared the energy efficiency and cost/benefit ratio of conventional and organic farming systems for black carrot (Daucus carota L.) in Konya province, Turkey. In the research, energy consumption for different farm operations from land preparation to transportation was considered. The farms were selected through stratified random sampling. Data were collected through field survey of 56 respondents in carrot farms during production periods in 2007–2008. Black carrot production was considered for the study as it is a very good source of colored food. Therefore, black carrot production must take into consideration the requirements for eco-design requirements and energy labeling. Based on the results, increasing amount of inputs was more effectively used in the organic farming system compared with the conventional system. Total energy requirement under conventional farming was 75,335.72 MJ ha-1 and 37,758.82 MJ ha-1 for organic farming. There was higher demand for energy in conventional farming (49.88%) than organic farming. On the other hand, the need for labor per hectare was higher for organic farming than for the conventional farming system. The energy output-input ratios for conventional and organic farming systems were 1.30 and 1.90, respectively. Moreover, the benefit-cost ratios were 1.83 and 2.05, respectively. Energy efficiency in the organic systems may increase by 1.32 kg ha-1 and by 0.23 kg ha-1 in the conventional systems.

Viability of Probiotic Bacteria in Low Alcohol- and Non-Alcoholic Beer During Refrigerated Storage

Abstract: The viability of two probiotic bacteria (Lactobacillus acidophilus LA-5 and Bifidobacterium lactis BB-12) was assessed in low-alcohol beer (2.5% alcohol) and non-alcoholic beer ( Key Words: alcohol, beer, bifidobacteria, Lactobacillus acidophilus, probiotic, viability

Competition Losses Caused by Rumex dentatus L. and Chenopodium album L. in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)

Abstract: Field trials were carried out in three consecutive years to evaluate the competition losses caused by Rumex dentatus L. and Chenopodium album L., the two most commonly occurring broad leaf weeds of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Selected wheat varieties (Inqlab-91 and Punjab-96) incurred 60–65% biomass losses due to weed infestation. The effect was evident on tillering capacity that decreased by 41.6% and, consequently, the crop yield. In various plots, the reduction in total grain weight was as high as 83% compared with the weed-free control. Key Words: Chenopodium album, competition losses, Rumex dentatus, wheat

Analysis of the Energy for Different Rice Production Systems in the Philippines

Abstract: The study was conducted to trace and analyze the energy for different rice ecosystems in the Philippines. Energy inputs consisted of human labor, machinery, animal, seeds, irrigation, fuel, fertilizers and pesticides. Energy outputs consisted of rice yield and husk. Using life cycle assessment (LCA), we analyzed and quantified energy inputs and outputs. The average output-input ratio was 9.0 and 7.5 for farms irrigated by canal and pump facility, respectively, during wet season (December–May). Among the other farming systems, the manual system had the highest energy ratio (8.50 and 10.17 for farms with pumping sets and canal facility, respectively). For these farms, the average total energy input was 12,066 and 10,574 MJ ha-1, respectively. The average output-input ratios were 9.55 for channel and 5.51 for pumping areas during the dry season. The manual system had the highest output-input ratio of 6.17 and 10.39 for channel and pumping areas, respectively. The average total energy inputs were 11,500 MJ ha-1 for channel and 11,753 MJ ha-1 for pumping. In all farming systems, N, fuel and seeds contributed around 80% of the total energy inputs. Power source for rice production in the Philippines predominantly came from human labor. Key Words: energy ratio, human energy, rice husk, rice production, rice yields

Field performance of TC1507 transgenic corn hybrids against Asian corn borer in the Philippines

Abstract: Two TC1507 transgenic Bt corn hybrids with the cry1F gene, their conventional isogenic hybrids and a conventional local hybrid were planted in five locations in 2006 wet season and seven locations in 2006-2007 dry season, to evaluate their performance against the Asian corn borer (ACB), Ostrinia furnacalis Guenee, as part of the Dow AgroSciences regulatory field trials to gain approval for cultivation of this corn hybrid in the Philippines. The two TC1507 hybrids had 0.00-0.14 tunnels per plant while the conventional isogenic hybrids averaged 1.08-9.51 tunnels per plant. More tunnels were observed on the two non-Bt isogenic hybrids and the conventional local hybrid during the wet season than during the dry season. Damage also varied with location. The TC1507 event was highly effective against ACB and provided significant yield benefits over the conventional corn hybrids, particularly under severe ACB infestation. TC1507 had reduced number of borer tunnels (99.1%), foliar injury (84.2%), total tunnel length per plant (99.9%) and averaged 2.08 mt more per ha yield than the non-Bt isogenic hybrids across the 12 test locations. Implication of TC1507 transgenic Bt corn in ACB resistance management is discussed. Key Words: Asian corn borer, Asiatic corn borer, Bacillus thuringiensis, Bt, Cry1F, efficacy, Ostrinia furnacalis, TC1507

Patterns of demersal fish distribution derived from line fishing experiment in Calauag Bay, Philippines.

Abstract: Long line experimental fishing was undertaken in 2005 to investigate patterns of distribution, catch composition, catch rate and size structure of demersal fishes at three coral reef sites with varying levels of fishing pressure in Calauag Bay, Philippines. Catch and size of most fishes were similar in the three sites, and catch rates were generally low, suggesting overfishing which probably occurred over a span of decades, hence, a homogenizing effect upon fishery variables. On the other hand, some fish showed variation in the patterns, and habitat correlates were found to be more influential than fishing. A distinct spatial pattern revealed an assemblage consisting predominantly of reef-associated fishes occurring at estuarine habitats. Ontogenetic habitat movement was shown especially for the orange-spotted grouper Epinephelus coioides, which demonstrated small individuals only at creeks and mangroves whereas larger and presumably reproductively active fish were observed distinctly at adjacent reefs. This is the first study that highlights the significance of the creek-mangrove-reef habitat continuum to the distribution of marine demersal fishes in the Philippines, with implications that existing management needs to incorporate non-reef habitat protection with fisheries stock enhancement schemes such as fry grow-out culture together with adult sanctuary and refugia measures. Key Words: coral reef fisheries, Epinephelus coioides, long line fishing, mangrove-associated fish, ontogenetic habitat shift

Nutrient Composition of Four Species of Grasshoppers from Alpine Grasslands in the Qilian Mountain of the Tibetan Plateau, China

Abstract: The study was conducted to determine the nutritional composition of four dominant species of grasshoppers, Oedalius asiaticus, Angaracris rhodopa, Chorthippus dubius and C. fallax (Orthoptera: Acrididae), found in the alpine grasslands in the Qilian Mountain of the Tibetan plateau, China in order to provide a basis for using grasshoppers as feeds for grazing chicks to modulate grasshopper population densities in the grasslands. Proximate analyses results were variable, with wide ranges found for moisture (64.9-71.4%), crude protein (62.4-67.2%), crude fat (4.8-6.8%), crude fiber (7.0-9.2%) and ash (4.1-4.7%), dry matter (DM) basis. Energy content ranged from 3923-4018 kcal kg(-1) DM. The four grasshopper species had a low calcium content, less than one-tenth of the dietary levels recommended by the National Research Council (NRC). Based on an amino acid scoring pattern for chicks, the first limiting amino acid for the four grasshopper species appears to be the sulfur amino acid methionine + cystine. The percent of unsaturated fatty acid in total fat ranged from 75.3-79.7%, especially linolenic acid (25-30.3%) and oleic acid (26.6-30.1%).

Antioxidant activity of a new indole alkaloid from Cassia alata L.

Abstract: Free radicals have significant effects on the structure and general function of the cell. They play a role in the body’s defense against infection by microorganisms. At the same time, they cause a number of diseases by inducing damage to DNA and other important biomolecules. Hence, the search for additional free radical scavengers or antioxidants, especially from plant sources, is of prime importance. Leaf extracts from Cassia alata L. (locally known as ‘akapulko’), traditionally used for the treatment of a variety of diseases, were evaluated as free radical scavengers using the diphenyl picryl hydrazyl hydrochloride (DPPH) assay. The ethyl acetate (EtOAc) fraction showed scavenging activity of 100%, comparable to gallic acid, a widely used antioxidant. Repeated column fractionation of the EtOAc fraction yielded a new indole alkaloid, 1-(4’-hydroxyphenyl)-2,4,6-trihydroxy-indole-3-carboxylic acid, which demonstrated a dose-dependent scavenging activity against DPPH with an IC50 of 0.0311 μM ± 0.002, indicating strong antioxidant potential.

Quality of Fresh-Cut Pears (Pyrus bretschneideri Rehd cv. Huangguan) Coated with Chitosan Combined with Ascorbic Acid and Rosemary Extracts

Abstract: The combined effects of chitosan coating plus antioxidants on the quality of fresh-cut ‘Huangguan' pears (Pyrus bretschneideri Rehd) were investigated. Pear wedges were immersed in 2% (w/v) chitosan solution with 0.03% rosemary or in 0.5% (w/v) ascorbic acid, followed by dipping in 2% (w/v) chitosan solution. Physico-chemical and sensory qualities of the fruits were evaluated during 3 d of storage at 20 °C. Results indicated that chitosan + rosemary and ascorbic acid + chitosan improved the preservation of fresh-cut pear compared with the control. Compared with ascorbic acid + chitosan, chitosan + rosemary suppressed polyphenol oxidase activity and reduced the loss of phenolic content, retained higher L and h values, and scored higher for color and visual appearance. No significant differences in electrolyte leakage, soluble solids content, pH, firmness and weight loss were observed between the two treatments. Ascorbic acid sharply increased in the coated samples after pretreatment with 0.5% ascorbic acid. Data obtained in this study suggest that chitosan incorporated with rosemary improved the antioxidant protection and sensory qualities of fresh-cut pears, providing a great advantage in the reduction of browning, which is the main problem of quality deterioration in fresh-cut produce. Key Words: ascorbic acid, browning, chitosan, firmness, fresh-cut pears, rosemary

The physical properties of fig (Ficus carica L.) as a function of moisture content and variety.

Abstract: Some physical and aerodynamic properties of two commercial figs (Ficus carica L.), namely, open and close figs, as a function of variety and moisture content were investigated. The results showed that for close figs, length, width, height, terminal velocity, geometric arithmetic mean diameters and surface area increased with increasing moisture content, whereas these parameters for open fig decreased. In both open and close figs, unit mass, true volume, bulk density and static angles of friction surfaces increased, while particle density and porosity decreased with increasing moisture content. For open fig, rolling resistance had increasing linear behavior and for close fig, decreasing nonlinear behavior with moisture content. Filling angle of repose of close and open dried figs were 26.38° and 25.81°, respectively, at 34.60% moisture content. The relationship between measurement properties and moisture content were represented by regression equations which have a high determination coefficient and could be used for prediction of all properties for processing and design.

Johnson Grass [Sorghum halepense (L.) Pers.]: A Potential Food Plant for Attaining Higher Grasshopper Biomass in Acridid Farms

Abstract: Acridid grasshoppers can be used as an alternative feed for livestock. For a continuous supply to the livestock industries, acridid farming should be considered. In acridid farms, suitable green plants should be used to feed grasshoppers to enhance their biomass production so that maximum amount of this alternative protein source can be supplied to the livestock industries. In the present study, Oxya fuscovittata (Marschall) was used as a model acridid. Four plant seedlings, namely, Oryza sativa L., Triticum aestivum L., Sorghum halepense (L.) Pers. and Cynodon dactylon Pers. were used as green food for consumption of the insects. Nymphal survival, growth, nymphal duration, food consumption and utilization, adult life span, egg pod laying ability and egg hatchability were observed to show the suitability of these plants for use in acridid farms. Among the four food plants, S. halepense was found to be the most suitable because the parameters observed for the species were highest when fed with this food plant. Establishing acridid farms and using S. halepense as food will produce high biomass of O. fuscovittata for the production of a low-cost feed for the poultry and fish industries. Key Words: Acrididae, high yield, livestock, Orthoptera, Oxya fuscovittata, Sorghum halepense

Bioactive Compound of Antifungal Metabolite from Trichoderma harzianum Mutant Strain for the Control of Anthracnose of Chili (Capsicum annuum L.)

Abstract: The antifungal metabolite was purified from a mutant strain of Trichoderma harzianum T-156-co5 by a chromatography procedure. The chemical constituent of the antifungal metabolite was determined by 1H and 13C Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. The NMR spectroscopic data showed that the antifungal compound was closely related to isoharziandione. The purified antifungal metabolite at concentrations of 50 and 100 mg L-1 was tested for the inhibition of spore germination of Colletotrichum capsici, a causal agent of anthracnose on chili (Capsicum annuum L. var. annuum). The result showed that both concentrations gave high percentages of inhibition, with 100 mg L-1 providing the highest efficacy of 83.4% compared with control 2 (sterilized water). Purified antifungal metabolite at 100 mg L-1 was also comparable with 100 mg L-1 benomyl in controlling anthracnose on detached chili fruits. The treatment with 100 mg L-1 gave the highest disease control efficacy of 89.9% compared with control 2, whereas 88.5% disease inhibition was observed in chili fruits treated with 100 mg L-1 benomyl. Control 1 (2% methanol) treatment showed only 6.4% disease inhibition. Key Words: biological control, chemical constituent analysis, Colletotrichum capsici, tetracyclic diterpene

Changes in Soil Physical Properties in Response to Maize Tillage Management on a Clay Loam Soil

Abstract: Conservation or reduced tillage may be a promising practice in soil management to improve soil properties and crop production for the planting of spring crops in the Plains of Troy in the Southwest Marmara Region of Western Turkey. The introduction of these tillage practices in soils that are naturally poor in organic matter could reduce soil degradation under intensive agricultural management in the area. Therefore, a 2-yr field experiment (2006 and 2007) was conducted to study the effect of two types of conservation or reduced tillage [shallow tillage (ST) with rototiller and chisel tillage (CT)] and conventional tillage with mouldboard plough (MT) on bulk density, penetration resistance, water content, oxygen diffusion rate and crop yields in a clay loam soil cropped with spring maize following winter vetch. Over a 2-yr average, penetration resistance was similar at the 0–15 cm depth in all tillage treatments in both growing years, while it was lower in CT and ST compared with MT at a depth of 15–30 cm, but never reached 2.50 MPa, which is considered limiting for root growth. Bulk density values over a 2-yr average were 1.35, 1.36 and 1.33 Mg m-3 for MT, ST and CT, respectively, during the growing seasons at a soil depth of 20–30 cm. No oxygen diffusion rate values were observed below the 17.0 μg m-2 s-1 reported as the threshold level to inhibit root growth in maize at any time of the growing seasons and using the various tillage treatments. Soil water content was found to be higher in ST than in MT and CT at all depths throughout the 2006 growing season, while it was similar in all tillage treatments in the 2007 growing season. ST also produced grain yield as much as MT in 2006, while the differences among tillage systems were nonsignificant in 2007. Key Words: maize, oxygen diffusion rate, soil penetration resistance, soil physical properties, soil tillage systems

Adaptive capacity of rice farmers to rainfall variability and extremes in the province of Camarines Sur, Philippines.

Abstract: The study examined the adaptive capacity of the rice production sector to rainfall variability and extremes. It developed and applied a composite vulnerability index which can be used to identify and characterize vulnerable areas at the sub-provincial level. Based on the findings, vulnerability is significantly associated with the proportion of rural population, literacy rate and income per capita of the municipality. The local case studies, on the other hand, show that farmers have been shifting to high-yielding, early-maturing varieties, changing planting dates and diversifying crops. They likewise take on non-farm jobs to cope with the effects of rainfall variability and extremes, thereby resulting in the increased importance of non-farm income. The intervention of government is also crucial in facilitating adaptation while the collective participation of farmers is very important in ensuring acceptance and effectiveness of these adaptation measures. Key Words: agriculture, climate change, risk

Physical Properties of Radish (Raphanus sativus L.) Seed as a Function of Moisture Content

Abstract: The physical properties of radish (Raphanus sativus L.) seed were determined as a function of moisture content in the range of 6.95–19.08% dry basis (d.b.). The lengthL, width W and thickness T of seeds ranged from 3.34–3.53, 2.52–2.77 and 2.01–2.27 mm, respectively, as the moisture content increased from 6.95–19.08% d.b. In this moisture range, the 1000-seed mass increased from 11.9–13.85 g, the projected area from 4.76–5.86 mm2, the sphericity from 0.77–0.80, the porosity from 30.17–33.07% and the terminal velocity from 7.16–7.93 m s-1. On the other hand, the bulk density decreased from 698.6–652.3 kg m-3 and the true density from 1000.41–974.66 kg m-3. Within the moisture content range, the static coefficient of friction of radish seed increased linearly against surfaces of four structural materials, namely, rubber (0.354–0.410), aluminum (0.295–0.346), stainless steel (0.245–0.306) and galvanized iron (0.308–0.368). Key Words: moisture content, physical properties, radish seed, Raphanus sativus L.

Amino Acid Profile and Anti-Hypertensive Activity of Collybia reinakeana P. Henn.

Abstract: The amino acid profile and the inhibitory activity of the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) of Collybia reinakeana P. Henn. were elucidated in our attempt to provide benchmark data regarding its use in the mushroom-based nutraceutical industry. C. reinakeana produced a colony of relatively big and heavy fruiting bodies with a cumulative weight of 5, 965 g. The length of its stipe ranged from 20–200 mm and the diameter of its pileus from 7–136 mm. The stipe contained essential amino acids, namely, phenylalanine >threonine >lysine >valine >leucine > isoleucine>tryptophan and methionine, in decreasing order of abundance. Similarly, phenylalanine was the most abundant in the pileus followed by lysine> threonine>valine> leucine>isoleucine>tryptophan and methionine. Aside from these essential amino acids, glutamine and glutamic acid were also noted both in the pileus and the stipe, which make C. reinakeana an excellent culinary ingredient. The two most important non-standard amino acids in the nutraceutical industry, ornithine and γ- aminobutyric acid (GABA), were also detected. C. reinakeana exhibited anti-hypertensive activity as demonstrated in the ability of its hot water extract to inhibit angiotensin-converting enzyme. Toxicity test in Crlj:CD1 (ICR) mice confirmed that it is an edible mushroom. Key Words: amino acid composition, Collybia reinakeana P. Henn., medicinal mushroom, mushroom nutraceutical

Salt Tolerance Screening in Six Maize (Zea mays L.) Genotypes using Multivariate Cluster Analysis

Abstract: The effective indices for salt tolerant classification of maize genotypes were investigated. Six maize cultivars were treated with either 0 (control) or 200 mM NaCl (salt stress). Chlorophyll a (Chla), chlorophyll b (Chlb), total chlorophyll (TC) and total carotenoid (Cx+c) concentrations in the salt-stressed leaves dropped significantly. Chla degradation in maize genotypes was correlated with maximum quantum yield of PSII (Fv/Fm). TC content was positively related to photon yield of PSII (ΦPSII). Fv/Fm, ΦPSII and photochemical quenching (qP) in the salt-stressed leaves decreased dramatically, related to the reduced net photosynthetic rate (Pn), leading to growth reduction. The chlorophyll a fluorescence parameters, Fv/Fm, ΦPSII and qP, in the leaf tissues decreased, while non-photochemical quenching (NPQ) increased. Data relating to pigment degradation, chlorophyll a fluorescence diminution, photosynthesis reduction and growth inhibition in salt-stressed maize cultivars were subjected to hierarchical cluster analysis using SPSS software. Two classes of genotypes were identified: salt-tolerant (Waxy 1, Waxy 2 and Waxy 3) and salt-sensitive (Honey, Sweet 1 and Sweet 2).

Assessment of genetic diversity in Garcinia species using peroxidase, RAPD and gene sequence specific amplification polymorphism (GSSAP).

Abstract: The genetic diversity of 22 accessions of the genus Garcinia was assessed using peroxidase, RAPD markers and gene sequence specific amplification polymorphism (GSSAP). Among the 15 isozymes tested, only peroxidase produced reproducible, polymorphic bands with a polymorphism information content (PIC) of 0.79. A total of eight bands were generated forming three fingerprint patterns distinct for G. mangostana, G. binucao, G. kydia and G. lateriflora. No bands were observed for G. livingstonei and G. xanthochymus. The three RAPD primers showed high PIC of 0.92 (OPB-04), 0.78 (OPB-06) and 0.91 (OPB-07). For GSSAP markers, two sets of primers based on the conserved regions of acyl-ACP thioesterase (ACYL-ACP), and chalcone synthase (CHALCS) had relative PICs of 0.75 and 0.89 for ACYL-ACP and CHALCS, respectively. The high PICs indicate the capability of these techniques to quantify genetic diversity in Garcinia species. The dendrograms using UPGMA-SAHN cluster analysis based on peroxidase, RAPD and GSS amplification polymorphism showed that Garcinia species clustered into five groups at mean similarity coefficient 0.54. Group I consisted of all 17 G. mangostana accessions and was further classified into three subgroups (Ia, Ib and Ic). Group II composed of G. kydia and G. lateriflora showed a genetic similarity of 0.94. G. livingstonei, G. xanthochymus and G. binucao were unique in their groups. This study showed that the G. mangostana accessions analyzed had low genetic variation and that the different species can be clearly distinguished by combined peroxidase, RAPD and gene sequence specific amplification polymorphism. Key Words: DNA markers, diversity analysis, Garcinia, gene-specific markers, isozymes, mangosteen, RAPD

Management of Purple Nutsedge (Cyperus rotundus L.) Tuber Populations in Rice-Onion Cropping Systems

Abstract: A high tuber population in rice-vegetable cropping systems makes purple nutsedge (Cyperus rotundus L) difficult to control because of tuber dormancy and longevity Studies were conducted to quantify production and population dynamics of tubers of purple nutsedge growing alone or in a rice-onion rotation system managed with strategies that reduce tuber production (herbicides and handweeding) or tuber survival (stale-seedbed technique) In pot studies, one purple nutsedge plant produced 550 tubers and 375 shoots after 4 mo In field studies, an initial density of 1 tuber/m2 increased to an average of 1200 tubers/m2 within 3 months from planting, declined by 50% after the first crop and by 95% after the fourth crop, with tuber longevity of 17 mo Tuber populations in treated plots decreased faster, and were lower, than those in nontreated plots after three cropping seasons The decline in tuber and shoot populations in plots treated with herbicides and handweeding was immediate, but not as long-lasting as that in plots treated with stale-seedbed Although crop yields were comparable, weed control costs were lower by 15-70% and net incomes were higher by 15% in stale-seedbed than in herbicide or handweeding treatments, indicating their greater cost-effectiveness over the latter treatments Key Words: Cyperus rotundus, population dynamics, stale-seedbed, tillage

Field Evaluation of Alternaria alternata as Mycoherbicide for the Management of Rumex dentatus L.

Abstract: The study investigated the mycoherbicidal potential of Alternaria alternata to control Rumex dentatus L., a problematic weed of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), under field conditions. Two wheat cultivars, viz. Inqalab 91 and Punjab 96, were co-cultivated with R. dentatus at 1:1 crop-weed ratio. Mycoherbicidal formulation was prepared in 20% canola oil emulsion with 107 conidia mL-1. The mycoherbicidal formulation was sprayed at the 2-3 and again at the 4-5 leaf stage of the weed. Application of mycoherbicide significantly reduced the biomass of the target weed species up to 88% and enhanced the number of fertile tillers, shoot and root biomass and grain weight in both wheat cultivars. The study concludes that A. alternata can be used as a potential biological agent for the management of R. dentatus in wheat. Key Words: Alternaria alternata, canola oil emulsion, mycoherbicide, Rumex dentatus, weed management

Runner Plant Yield and Quality of Strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa Duch.) Inoculated with Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR)

Abstract: The effects of plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) [(Pseudomonas BA-8 (biological control agent), Bacillus OSU-142 (N2-fixing) and Bacillus M-3 (N2-fixing and phosphate solubilizing)] were investigated on runner plant yield and quality of strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa) cultivars Selva and Sweet Charlie in the province of Erzurum, Turkey in 2002-2003. All PGPRs were inoculated on the roots of strawberry prior to planting. BA-8 and OSU-142 were sprayed on the leaves and flowers at 15-d intervals. Foliar + root application of PGPR strains significantly increased the number of runner plant per plant, leaf area and the ratio of usable runner plant in cv. Selva. Root application in cv. Selva increased the number of runner plant per stolon compared with the control. But in cv. Sweet Charlie, the most important increment was observed in foliar + root application compared with the control. In addition, the highest usable runner plant was obtained from foliar + root application in cv. Selva. The results indicated that Pseudomonas BA-8, Bacillus OSU-142 and Bacillus M-3 have the potential to increase runner plant yield and quality in strawberry cv. Selva and that foliar + root application was more effective than the other treatments. Key Words: plant growth promoting rhizobacteria, runner, strawberry

Teratogenic Activity of Ficus odorata (Blanco) Merr. and Baccaurea tetrandra (Baill.) Müll. in Mice Embryos

Abstract: Ficus odorata (Blanco) Merr and Baccaurea tetrandra (Baill) Mull are indigenous ethnomedicinal plants widely used by the Aetas of Bataan, Philippines for various ailments despite the absence of studies on their possible toxic effect The study was conducted to assess any teratogenic/antiteratogenic potential of their leaf extracts Inbred strain of ICR mice were treated with varying concentrations of the crude leaf extracts, with and without the supplementation of 2,500 IU vitamin A, an established teratogen at high concentrations, to determine the teratogenicity or antiteratogenicity of the extracts Reproductive performance, morphological malformation and skeletal organogenesis of the fetuses were assessed From the high frequency of congenital abnormalities in the fetuses exposed to F odorata, the plant has strong potential for teratogenicity B tetrandra induced a few malformations, making it a possible weak teratogen Both plants did not show antiteratogenic activity Key Words: teratogenic, Ficus odorata (Blanco) Merr, Baccaurea tetrandra (Baill) Mull, hypervitaminosis A, reproductive performance, skeletal organogenesis

Yield, production cost and incidence of club root disease of crucifers under soil fertility management practices using various combinations of soil additives.

Abstract: Three methods of reducing club root disease incidence - UPLB Method I, UPLB Method II (involving an integrated disease management approach through the use of various soil additives) and Farmers' Practice (FP) - were evaluated in seven barangays of Buguias, Benguet by farmers on cabbage (Brassica oleracea, capitata group) and wombok or Chinese pechay (Brassica rapa, Pekinensis group) as test crops. UPLB M I and M II were both tested by 10 randomly selected cabbage farmers and FP by eight other randomly selected farmers. Three randomly selected wombok farmers tested both M I and M II and three other wombok farmers the FP method. Method I used 0.13 kg m-2 lime, 0.09 kg m-2 triple 14 chemical fertilizer, 0.525 kg m-2 chicken manure, 0.54 mL m-2 chemical insecticide and 3 g m-2 Trichoderma spp. biocon powder inoculant applied at seed bed. UPLB M II used 0.13 kg m-2 lime, 0.06 kg m-2 triple 14 chemical fertilizer, 0.35 mL m-2 chemical insecticide, compost applied at 0.6 kg m-2 prepared from crop residues - weeds mixed with 0.358 kg m-2 chicken manure, and 3 g m-2 Trichoderma spp. biocon powder inoculant applied at seed bed. FP used 0.14 kg m-2 triple 14 chemical fertilizer, 1.57 kg m-2 chicken manure, 2.35 g m-2 chemical fungicide and 1.7 mL m-2 chemical insecticide. At harvest, mean disease incidence in cabbage for UPLB Methods I and II was 2% and 1%, respectively, and 26% for FP. In wombok, it was 4.6% and 3.4%, respectively, for UPLB Methods I and II and 23% for FP. Partial production cost per kg of cabbage (farm gate) for UPLB Method I was PhP 1.53, PhP 1.49 for UPLB Method II and PhP 4.75 for FP. In wombok (farm gate), it was PhP 1.31 for UPLB Method I, PhP 1.21 for UPLB Method II and PhP 4.55 for FP. Mean weight per head in UPLB Methods I and II was the same at 1 kg and 2.0 kg while that of FP was 0.75 kg and 0.81 kg for cabbage and wombok, respectively. Mean differences were significant based on t-test comparison of M I vs. M II, FP vs. M I and FP vs. M II for the tested parameters. Key Words: cabbage, chicken manure, club root disease, compost, integrated disease management, Trichoderma spp., wombok

The impact of climate on the biological control of citrus mealybug [Planococcus citri (Risso)] by the parasitoid Coccidoxenoides perminutus Girault as predicted by the climate-matching program CLIMEX

Abstract: We used the climate-matching program CLIMEX to assess the influence of climatic conditions in Southeastern Queensland, Australia on the effectiveness of the parasitoid, Coccidoxenoides perminutus (Girault), against the citrus mealybug, Planococcus citri (Risso). Climate was compared across areas where the parasitoid has shown successes and failures in controlling mealybug populations. If climatic conditions impact significantly on C. perminutus biocontrol performance, the CLIMEX output of Ecoclimatic Index (EI) would indicate that the localities worldwide where the species is relatively successful have suitable climatic conditions (EI > 40). Southeastern Queensland data indicated C. perminutus population is relatively low in citrus mealybug samples from two citrus-producing localities, Mundubbera and Nambour. If climatic conditions impact significantly on C. perminutus survival, the model should also predict that the climates, as expressed by the climate Match Index (MI), of southeastern Queensland are not particularly suitable for C. perminutus (MI Key Words: biological control, climate matching, Coccidoxenoides perminutus, ecoclimatic index, geographical distribution, mealybug parasitoid, Planococcus citri, predictive evaluation

Direct and indirect in-vitro plant regeneration and antioxidant production in tsaang gubat [Carmona retusa (Vahl.) Masam].

Abstract: In vitro plant regeneration of tsaang gubat [Carmona retusa (Vahl.) Masam] via direct and indirect methods using shoot tip explants was studied. The level of antioxidants such as tannin, flavonoids and phenolics in the leaves of in-vitro and field-grown plants was also evaluated. Multiple shoot formation was enhanced when shoot tips were cultured on Murashige and Skoog's (MS) medium containing 5 mg L-1 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP). Higher BAP concentration did not induce more new shoots; instead, the original shoot inoculum appeared stunted, vitrified and had abnormally large leaves. Continuous subculturing (6-8 wk) of the regenerated shoots to MS + 5 mg L-1 BAP and 15% (v/v) coconut water induced shoot proliferation with an average of 15-20 shoots per inoculum after the 3rd subculture. MS medium containing 0.5 mg L-1 naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) and 4 mg L-1 BAP was found optimum for callus formation. Subsequent differentiation of shoots was observed only in media containing BAP with the highest number of shoots produced at 10 mgL-1. Regenerated shoots were successfully rooted on indole-3-butyric acid (IBA)-supplemented medium; the longest and highest number of roots was recorded at 10 mg L-1 IBA. Levels of phenolics, flavonoids and tannins were higher in the leaves of tissue-culture-raised plants than those of in vivo grown plants. Likewise, plants maintained for long-term (24 wk) under in vitro conditions produced these secondary metabolites, although at lower levels compared with the field-grown materials. Key Words: antioxidants, callus induction, Carmona retusa, in vitro culture, plantlet regeneration, shoot induction, tsaang gubat

Quality During Storage of Fresh-Cut Papaya (Carica papaya L.) in Various Shapes

Abstract: This research work was conducted to study the effect of the cut type (cube, rectangular parallelepiped, cylinder and sphere) on the quality and shelf life of fresh-cut papaya (Carica papaya L. cv. Sunrise Solo) stored at 10 °C. Physico-chemical analyses were carried out during 10 d of storage; the color, firmness, pH, titratable acidity, total soluble solids, weight loss and ascorbic acid content of the fresh-cut fruits were determined. Microbiological analysis was also performed. The most favorable physico-chemical and microbiological results were observed in sphere-shaped (1.55 cm radius) papaya: smaller changes in L*, a*, hue angle and chroma color coordinates; firmer texture; lower increases in pH; higher values and lower decrease of titratable acidity; reduced weight loss; lowest decrease in ascorbic acid content; and lower microbial loads. Based on the results of microbiological evaluation, less than 8 d would be the recommended time for storage of any cut type of fresh papaya. Key Words: color, cut type, firmness, microbiology, papaya, storage temperature, vitamin C

Mitochondrial DNA D-Loop Diversity of Tibetan Pig Populations

Abstract: The Tibetan pig, a plateau type pig breed, is recognized as one of the most important pig breeds in China and a valuable genetic resource worldwide. As part of an initial step to investigate the genetic structure and diversity of its populations, phylogenetic analysis was carried out using 417bp mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) D-loop sequence variations. The mtDNA breed sequences of 26 Hezuo Tibetan pigs were found to be distributed in 20 haplotypes, 19 of which were unique to this breed. The nucleotide diversity within the control region sequences of Hezuo Tibetan pigs (0.82%) was found to be higher than those of the other Tibetan pig populations sampled in this study. Based on the results, conservation of Hezuo Tibetan pigs should be a priority as the breed serves as a vector of unique genetic resources. Rooted neighbor-joining tree and median joining network procedures carried out on the data showed that the Tibetan pig breed has three major ancestral maternal origins and different domestication histories. Key Words: Tibetan pig, MtDNA D-loop, genetic diversity, phylogenetic analysis

Variation in Endogenous Concentration of Abscisic Acid, Gibberellic Acid, Zeatin and 3-Indoleacetic Acid during Cold Storage in Bulbs of Lily (Lilium ‘Siberia’)

Abstract: Dormancy in lily (Lilium sp.) bulbs is broken by a cold period of several weeks. Sprouting percentage, growth and flower quality are reduced when bulbs are partially released from dormancy. To understand the involvement of phytohormones in dormancy release in lily bulbs, the concentration of endogenous abscisic acid (ABA), gibberellic acid (GA3), zeatin (ZT) and 3-indoleacetic acid (IAA) was examined in the primary shoot, outer scale and root of bulbs of Oriental hybrid Lilium ‘Siberia’ during the dormancy release period. Cold treatment (4 °C) enhanced ABA, GA3 and ZT concentration in the primary shoot. GA3, ZT and ABA reached their maximum levels on the 14th, 49th and 63rd days of cold storage, respectively. IAA concentration remained at a constant level in the primary shoot of bulbs at 4 °C up to 21 d. Thereafter, it increased gradually up to the maximum level on the 84th day. In the outer scale of the bulbs, GA3 increased dramatically on the 7th day, then declined till the end of the 4 °C treatment. In the root, GA3 was at a higher level in the bulbs at 4 °C than at 25 °C treatment before 42 d. The ratios of phytohormone that promote plant growth to phytohormone that inhibit plant growth were higher in the outer scale of the bulbs at 4 °C than those at 25 °C treatment before 42 d. The ratios were lower in the primary shoot of the bulbs after 42 d of the 4 °C treatment than those at 25 °C. In conclusion, cold treatment enhanced ABA, GA3 and ZT concentration and effectively regulated IAA concentration to reach the maximum level at the end of dormancy release period in the primary shoot of bulbs under 4 °C treatment. Apparently, changes in ABA and GA3 concentration differ in the primary shoot, outer scale and root of the bulbs of lily. These changes act as multipurpose signals in the control of bulb dormancy release in the different tissues of the bulb and during the different stages of bulb development. Apparently, there is a relationship between ABA and IAA concentration and bulb sprouting. Key Words: bulb, dormancy, Lilium sp., phytohormone

Characterization of biosurfactant from Saccharomyces cerevisiae 2031 and evaluation of emulsification activity for potential application in bioremediation.

Abstract: The biosurfactant isolated from Saccharomyces cerevisiae 2031 using glucose and waste cooking oil as additional carbon sources was characterized. Its emulsification activity was evaluated for potential application in bioremediation. Heat treatment of the S. cerevisiae 2031 cells was done to solubilize the biosurfactant. The extracted biosurfactant was then partially purified by acetone precipitation. Qualitative test using the drop collapse technique indicated presence of a biosurfactant with emulsion-stabilizing property. Biochemical analysis of the partially purified biosurfactant (PPBS) revealed that it is a protein-polysaccharide complex, the typical composition of mannoproteins. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy further confirmed the presence of these macromolecules. Emulsification properties of the biosurfactant revealed that it is not affected by a wide range of environmental conditions such as pH (2-12), temperature (4-70 oC) and salt concentration (2-10%), thus making it useful for various applications. It can also effectively emulsify different commercial oils, aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbons, organic solvents and waste cooking oil, also making it suitable for bioremediation of lipid-based and petroleum-based contaminated wastes. Key Words: bioremediation, emulsification, Fourier transform infrared, Saccharomyces

Proline Accumulation and Physiological Responses of Indica Rice Genotypes Differing in Tolerance to Salt and Drought Stresses

Abstract: The study determined the relationship between proline accumulation and physiological responses of indica rice genotypes to salt and drought stresses in photoautotrophic conditions. Two salt-tolerant genotypes of indica rice [cv. jasmine rice (KDML 105) and Dang], two drought-tolerant genotypes [Rice Department 6 (RD6) and Rice Department 15 (RD15)] and a salt- and drought-sensitive genotype [Pathumthani 1 (PT 1)] were exposed to 100 mM NaCl (salt stress) or 100 mM mannitol (drought stress) for 4 d. The relative water content (RWC) and malondialdehyde (MDA) accumulation in salt- and drought-tolerant genotypes did not significantly change. The proline accumulation in these genotypes greatly increased with stress. On the other hand, the salt- and drought-sensitive genotype which had lower proline accumulation demonstrated a significant decrease in RWC and increase in MDA content. Moreover, our results showed a strong correlation between proline concentrations and free radical scavenging by the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay. The high concentration of proline solution presented high DPPH antioxidant activity. The higher proline accumulation in stressed seedlings of tolerant genotypes may help to maintain the RWC and MDA of rice plant, which could lead to preferable growth performance.