International Journal of Agricultural Technology

Improvement of wool dyeing quality and its antimicrobial activity using nano forms of silver

Ali, N. F., Abd-Elsalam, I. S. — Tue, 15 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0700

In conjunction with the increasing public awareness of the infectious diseases, textile industry and scientists are developed hygienic fabrics by the addition of various antimicrobial compounds. The current investigation was carried out using nano-silver applied to wool fibers for studying its effects on wool quality and antimicrobial resistance. Antimicrobial activity is investigated against a broad range of microorganisms including bacteria, yeast and fungi. Moreover, dyeing of wool fibers treated with silver nitrate with extracted dye from the filamentous fungus, Pencillium purpurogenum by using innovation technique to save energy and time. In order to obtain color of aimed specific red hue, the influence of certain dyeing process conditions namely dyestuff concentration, pH, temperature, and duration of the dyeing process were studied. Antimicrobial effect is derived from nano-silver particles (diameter between 1 and 100 nm) which are adhered to the fibers. The fibers treated with silver particles was dyed by the investigated dye, and the antimicrobial activity was recorded. The wool materials showed antimicrobial effects by killing and/or suppressing growth of a broad spectrum of microbes such as Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger. The results indicated that nano-silver application was reflected positively on the zones of growth inhibition of wool fibers E. coli gave the highest diameter of the inhibition zone. On the hand, the applied pigment and the nano forms showed minimum effect on C. alibicans and A. niger

The effect of timing and storage temperature on pollen viability and pollen germination in Zephyranthes Hybrid

Anuwong, C., Teerarak, M., Saetiew, K. — Tue, 15 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0700

The effect of timing and storage temperature on pollen viability and pollen germination in Zephyranthes hybrid on eight cultivars i.e. ‘Red Candy’, ‘Bright Eye’, ‘Golden Mango’, ‘POS’, ‘Lookmai’, ‘Island Breeze’, ‘Madam Butterfly’ and ‘Paradee’ were studied. The results showed that the low temperature stored pollen maintained a higher germination percentage than the one stored in the room temperature for 4-8 days in which the germination percentage decreased when the storage period increased in all cultivars. Moreover, the interaction between the 2 factors showed that the pollen germination percentage was declined for 4 or 8 days when stored at low temperatures (15.59-27.96% or 10.10-19.25%). Therefore, the optimal time of pollination in Z. hybrid should do at 09.00-11.00 a.m. and stored at 5˚C for pollen viability and germination. ‘Bright Eye’ and ‘Island Breeze’ could be maintained for 12 days, but ‘Golden Mango’, ‘Red Candy’, ‘POS’, ‘Madam Butterfly’, ‘Lookmai’ and ‘Paradee’ could be maintained only for 8 days

Eco-physiological manipulation by using humic acid and micronutrient for improving soil biological quality and rice yield in coastal agricultural land

Bertham, Y. H., Nusantara, A. D., Arifin, Z., Herman, W. , Barchia, M. F. — Tue, 15 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0700

Coastal agricultural land generally has some characteristics such as water stress and lack of nutrients, low organic matter content, high salinity, high temperature and strong wind, thereby causing low rice yield. Besides, humic acid and micronutrients’ application ameliorates soils for a better rice yield. The importance of humic acid and micronutrients compound mixed with biological fertilizers to soil biological quality and rice yield in an agricultural coastal land were recorded from July to December 2020 in Beringin Raya, Muara Bangkahulu sub-district, Bengkulu City. The result showed the Inpago 10 was the highest productive variety compared to Red and White varieties, while the coastal land ameliorated with humic acid produced the highest Azotobacter population, PSB, AMF colonization in the root system, and rice yield. Inpago 10 and humic acid treatment combination makes soil more basic and produced the highest weight of 1000-grain and milled dry rice.

Screening of functional activities of Phyllanthus acidus

Casalio, J., Galam, C. M., Waing, K. G. — Tue, 15 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0700

Phyllanthus acidus is commonly known as gooseberry tree belongs to family Phyllanthaceae which usually grow in tropical areas. In order to establish its functional activities, the antioxidant, phenolic content, antibacterial and molluscicidal activities of the plant were assessed. P. acidus aqueous extract showed 57.14 % radical scavenging activity and contained 29. 41 mg GAE/ g total phenolics. The bacterial inhibitory activity of P. acidus hot water extract against E. coli and S. aureus showed a mean diameter zone of inhibition of 0.58 mm and 5. 19 mm respectively. Whereas, the aqueous extract showed no bacterial inhibitory activity against the bacterial pathogens. Meanwhile, the molluscicidal activity of P. acidus against Pomacea canaliculata (golden apple snail) showed that the extract with a concentration of 1000 ppm had a mean of 2.38 which showed the highest mean mortality rate among the three concentration of aqueous extract tested. Results of the screening of functional activities of the plant extract showed a continuous effort to find a new pharmacological potentiality and plant molluscicides

Protein hydrolysates from agricultural wastes for plant bacterial disease control

Ditsawanon, T., Parinthawong, N., Phaonakrob, N., Roytrakul, S. — Tue, 15 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0700

Agricultural wastes, agro-industrial wastes and fishery wastes were collected and the protein hydrolysates were obtained with pepsin. Antibacterial activity of smaller than 3 kDa protein hydrolysates was determined against the plant pathogenic bacteria; Xanthomonas citri, Ralstonia solanacearum, Burkholderia cepacia and also against plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPRs); Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and P. fluorescens. Coconut residues (agro-industrial waste from coconut milk production), peanut seed coat (from peanut-based snack production) and rice straw (waste from rice farms) showed antimicrobial activity against X. citri, R. solanacearum and B. cepacia with higher than 74% inhibition. Coconut residue also increased growth of PGPRs, B. subtilis and P. fluorescens. Further protein hydrolysates from Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and snake-head fish (Clarias batrachus) fin increased growth of all PGPRs.

Potential use of extracts and active constituent from Desmodium sequax to control fungal plant diseases

Tue, 15 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0700

The methanol extract of the whole plant of Desmodium sequax was found to suppress efficiently fungal plant diseases. Especially, it remarkably controlled rice blast (RCB), tomato grey mold (TGM), and red pepper anthracnose (PAN) in vivo. Out of separated fractions, Hex-soluble fraction showed potent control values against RCB (93.75%), TGM (87.5%), wheat leaf rust (WLR) (80%) and PAN (95%) at 3000 µg/mL, respectively. Through bioassay-guided fractionation, compound 1 was isolated from the Hex-soluble fraction and this compound was identified as lupeol on the basis of NMR and ESI-MS data analysis. The in vivo and in vitro antifungal activity of 1 was evaluated against various fungal phytopathogens. Lupeol displayed a moderate inhibition against the mycelial growths of Rhizoctonia solani, Colletotrichum orbiculare, and Magnaporthe oryzae in vitro. Besides, in vivo antifungal efficacy of 1 against TGM and tomato late blight (TLB) over the concentration range of 125–500 µg/mL was described for the first time. The content of lupeol (2.94%) in Hex-soluble fraction was quantified by HPLC analysis. Our study demonstrated that D. sequax is a promising plant resource, contains lupeol as an antifungal constituent, and could be used to control fungal plant pathogens.

Use of Tithonia diversifolia leaves for liquid organic fertilizer

Fahrurrozi, F., Sudjatmiko, S., Muktamar, Z., Setyowati, N., Chozin, M. — Tue, 15 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0700

In the production of liquid organic fertilizer (LOF) for organic vegetable production, the portion of tithonia leaves determined LOF nutrient compositions. Results showed that P and C-organic contents were significantly affected by the portion of tithonia leaves, yet pH, N-total, K, Ca-ex., and Mg-ex were insignificantly affected. Treatment with 12.5 % of tithonia leaves had the highest P content, followed by 7.5, 5, and 10 % tithonia leaves. The highest organic C content was found in LOF with 12.5 %, trailed by those of 10, 7.5 and 5 % tithonia leaves. The percentage of tithonia leaves in the production was increased P and C-organic content. The best portion of tithonia leaves for LOF production was 12.5 % of composting materials

Effect of dietary supplementation with Vietnamese coriander (Persicaria odorata) extract on growth performance, carcass characteristics and meat quality

Tue, 15 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0700

The results indicated that the 600 mg/kg VCE and OTC supplemented groups had significantly greater weight gain and average daily gain than the 0, 200, and 400 mg/kg VCE supplemented groups (P<0.05). The feed conversion ratio significantly improved in the VCE and OTC supplemented groups compared with the control group (P<0.05). There were no significant differences in slaughter weight, carcass percentage, and dressing percentage among the treatment groups. The meat quality in terms of pH values determined at 45 minutes post-mortem was higher in the 600 mg/kg VCE than in other treatment groups (P<0.05). Broilers fed 600 mg/kg VCE had the lowest fat percentage (P<0.05). In addition, supplementation with VCE in the diet significantly decreased the TBARS value of breast meat during the storage time (P<0.05). In conclusion, broilers fed with 600 mg/kg VCE and Oxytetracycline supplemented diets had improved in growth performance and meat quality compared to the control group

Influence of various irrigation systems on the growth and yield of Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.)

Tue, 15 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0700

Lettuce being dependent to water during its growth and development is very sensitive to water stress. Lettuce applied with drip irrigation produced the highest crown size (polar, equatorial), most number of leaves and highest yield of 23.42 and 24.33 t ha^-1 for two cropping periods, respectively. There was no notable effect observed among the various irrigation type on disease incidence. Leafy-type lettuce achieved the maximum plant stand with 89.70% during the second cropping. Head-type obtained the highest marketable yield during the first cropping season of 23.61 t ha^-1 but leafy-type exhibited the highest yield of 17.72 t ha^-1 on second cropping. Relatively, leafy-type produced more marketable number of leaves. Drip irrigation improved lettuce yields but there was no consistent varietal effect. Therefore, drip irrigation could possibly enhance lettuce production as implied by its significant effects on the yield and yield components

Antifungal and antioxidant activities of Ag@FeO-NPs@Chitosan preparation by endophyte Streptomyces aureofaciens

Haggag, W. M., Eid, M. M. — Tue, 15 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0700

Biological control using beneficial microorganisms is nowdeveloped for reducing the plant pathogens. Nanoparticles with specific functions have been produced and represented an economical alternative to agochemical through the natural methods of nanoparticle formation. Biosynthesis of Ag@FeO-NPs@Chitosan preparation by Streptomyces aureofaciens was performed against some soil borne pathogenic fungi i.e. Fusarium oxysporum, F. solani, F. subglutinans, Rhizoctonia solani and air borne pathogenic fungi i.e. Botrytis cinerea, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, Alternaria solani and Aspergillus niger . To conceive the formation of Ag@FeO-NPs@Chitosan, ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy for the biosynthesis of core–shell nanoparticle and fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy analysis were done for constructing the structure of nano-composite. Scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), and scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) micrographs evidenced that the size of synthesized nanoparticles is less than 50 nm. As a result, the data showed that the produced core–shell hemtite @Ag nanoparticles are super-paramagnetic. The chitosan is formed in the outer shell of the formula spontaneously due to the presence of chitin in the fungus cell membrane. In vitro bioassay, Ag@FeO-NPs@Chitosan preparation by Streptomyces showed distinct antifungal against all plant pathogens, and inhibited the growth and spores germination. Antioxidant activities as reducing power measurement, DPPH (1,1-Diphenyl-2- picrylhydrazyl) radical scavenging activity, nitric oxide scavenging activity, ABTS free radical scavenging activity and total phenolics contents were greatly increased. Synthesized Ag@FeO-NPs@Chitosan preparation by S. aureofaciens is demonstrated remarkable potential for using as antifungal compound to combat plant diseases. Chitosan is a good source for the preparation of bionanoparticle materials for industry and applications

Reliability of seedling stage selection for aluminium stress tolerance in hot pepper (Capsicum annuum L)

Herison, C., Rustikawati., Hasanudin., Suharjo, U. K. J., Masabni, J. G. — Tue, 15 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0700

In Ultisol, the presence of aluminium (Al) in high concentration is the main constraint hampering growth and yield of many crops, including hot pepper. The use of varieties tolerant to Al stress is one most prospective manner, which is relatively low cost and environmentally friendly, in exploiting this acidic soil to increase the national hot pepper production. Appropriate screening method is required to make variety development more efficient. a concentration of 2 mM Al in nutrient solution gave enough selecting pressure to determine genotypes which tolerant to Al stress. Seedling stage selection was highly reliable to determine most tolerant genotypes against Al stress in hot pepper, with the key trait of plant fresh weight, plant dry weight, and stem diameter. The most tolerant genotype amongst 27 tested genotypes were ‘HP’, ‘PBC621’, ‘PBC266’, ‘PBC 157’, ‘Mario’, ‘PBC155’, ‘PBC396’, ‘Sempurna’ and the most sensitive ones were ‘LPK’ and ‘Romario’. The result of field experiment confirmed the greenhouse finding. However, It is needed to be further evaluated more acidic ultisol to obtain more accurate aluminum tolerance property of selected genotypes

Effect of strain and gender on production performance, carcass characteristics and meat quality of broiler chickens

Tue, 15 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0700

The effects of strain and gender on production performance, carcass characteristics, and meat quality of broiler chickens were examined. There were no significant interactions between broiler strain and gender (P>0.05). Arbor Acres showed significantly higher body weight (BW) and average daily gain (ADG), while feed intake (FI) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were significantly lower than Ross308 and Cobb500, especially in the fifth and sixth weeks of age. Arbor Acres also showed the highest slaughter weight (P<0.05). However, carcass composition was not significantly different between strains. There were no significant differences between the strains in muscle pH, drip loss and cooking loss. However, Cobb500 had a lower shear force value than the others (P<0.05). As for the gender-specific effect, BW and ADG of male broilers were higher than those of females from the second to the sixth week of age (P<0.01). At the second week of age, female broilers had higher FI, while male broilers had higher FI from the third to the sixth week of age (P<0.01). Male broilers had lower FCR than females from the fourth to the sixth week of age (P<0.01). Male broilers had higher slaughter weight, carcass weight and carcass composition weight (P<0.01) except for abdominal fat (P>0.05). Percent carcass composition did not differ among broiler strains except for percent tenderloin and percent abdominal fat, which were higher in females than males (P<0.01). Broiler strains had no effect on meat quality except that Cobb500 had lower shear force (P<0.05). The pH₃, pH₂₄ and yellowness color values had differed between genders, which male muscle had higher pH₃ (P<0.05), pH₂₄(P<0.01) than female but female muscle had higher yellowness value than male (P<0.05). Interaction effect between breed and gender was found in lightness (P<0.01) and redness colors (P<0.05)

Effect of organic manure and chemical fertilizers on the growth, production and seed quality of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.)

Tue, 15 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0700

Field experiments were conducted from March to July 2016 at the Botanical Garden of Islamia College University, Peshawar, to evaluate the effects of poultry manure and sulfur on the growth, production, and seed quality of sunflower. Results showed organic manure gives maximum growth and yield considering all the growth parameters. When the effect of organic manure was compared, it was evident that poultry manure produced the highest yield. The combined application of poultry manure and sulfur on growth, yield, and oil contents of sunflower showed a more significant effect than application alone

Quality properties of northern Thai beef sausage (sai-ua-nuea) with different additional levels of selected herbs

Khwanchai, P., Fong-in, S., Klinmalai, P. — Tue, 15 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0700

Different levels of selected herbs (0–20% w/w) were affected northern Thai beef sausage (sai-ua-nuea) quality in terms of color, water activity (a_w), cooking loss, texture, proximate composition, and sensory attributes. The L* and a* values were diminished for sai-ua-nuea with higher herb content, while the b* value unaffected. The a_w value of sai-ua-nuea without selected herbs was 0.93; it raised to 0.96 when adding selected herbs at a ratio of 10–20% of the a_w value. The cooking loss of the samples decreased gradually with the addition of selected herbs. In cooked sai-ua-nuea, selected samples with incorporated herbs showed significantly lower results in all textural parameters (firmness, hardness, springiness, cohesiveness, gumminess, and chewiness) than the control. Proximate analysis results showed that the addition of selected herbs on sai-ua-nuea samples improved their nutritional values. It was found that an increase of selected herbs leads to a higher fiber content and lower fat content in sai-ua-nuea. Regarding sensory characteristics, the addition of selected herbs did not significantly affect any of the sensory scores tested in terms of odor, texture, taste, and juiciness attributes. However, the increased levels of selected herbs decreased the good appearance level more than 10% in terms of color and overall linking scores. Therefore, these results suggested that a suitable addition of selected herbs would be 10% for the development of a healthier sai-ua-nuea product.

Developing an international cooperation training program for designing sustainable agriculture systems under the climate crisis era

Kim, H., Singseewo, A., Poungsuk, P. — Tue, 15 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0700

The results of the study were found stemically and holistically approached training program improved student’s environmental literacy. Students centered curriculum improve student’s environmental awareness, knowledge, skill, attitude and participation when the course finished. Place-based learning enlarged students’ skills and increased awareness and sensitivity which leaded to see the whole picture. The relationship between philosophy of training center and curriculum made synergy when it had the same goal. The results of the pre and post-test showed that 100 percent of the student’s awareness, skill reaches the hight level after the class. On knowledge, 94.12 percent of the students were high level after the class. The comparison of the student's attitudes and participation was higher than before with a statistical significance level of 0.05

The carbon footprint assessment from electricity in Amnatcharoen Province, Northeastern Thailand

Kulsuwan, P., Sirisathit, P. — Tue, 15 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0700

The carbon footprint assessment dioxide equivalent emissions per year resulted to assess the population for a total of carbon dioxide emissions at 3,663 ton CO₂/Capital, with an average of 1.85 ton CO₂ /Capital/person. The consideration by sex of study found that sex with highest amount of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions was female which averaged 1,896 ton CO₂/Capital. by age range of study found that age range with highest amount of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions was 31-45 years, 892 tons CO₂/Capital. The knowledge on electrical energy usage of the population showed the most of aware in “items in the refrigerator with a lot of ice formed in the icebox take long time to be cold or are not cold much” , and followed by the knowledge that “maintenance of electrical appliances helps to save energy”, and “ electrical appliances with a lot of wattage consume a lot of energy ”. The behavioral aspect found that the electrical energy usage behavior of population was recorded at often level consume. The information obtained from this research is proposed to be a guideline for creating a policy to conserve electrical energy and reduced carbon dioxide emissions in Amnatcharoen province, Northeastern Thailand.

Non-destructive leaf area estimation in habanero chili (Capsicum chinense Jacq.)

Lakitan, B., Susilawati, S., Wijaya, A., Ria, R. P., Putri, H. H. — Tue, 15 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0700

The best fit models were polynomial (R_L²=0.9731; R_w²=0.9620) and power (R_L²=0.9692; R_w²=0.9592) regressions if single predictor of leaf length (L) or width (W) was used. Meanwhile, if LW was used, the best fit models were the zero-intercept linear (R_Lw²=0.9929) and power (R_Lw²=0.9962) regressions. Forcing the intercept to zero yielded better estimation for smaller leaves and did not significantly alter the coefficient of determination. Configuration of scattered data helped to recognize the curving trend and should be used as reference in selecting an appropriate regression type. The second-order polynomial regression curve has a single bend, therefore, far-end of the curve would either rise to infinity or curve down after a rising start. These both cases are an inherited weakness of the second-order polynomial regression beyond range of collected data. Both problems associated with the decrease of leaf area (LA) at higher predictor values and under-estimating of LA at lower predictor value were successfully eliminated by opting to use the power regression if L²W or LW² as predictors. Accuracy and reliability of separated L (R²=0.9843) or W (R²=0.9899) was lower than combined LW (R²=0.9960) as predictor in case of habanero chili. Significant differences in specific leaf fresh weight (SLFW) and leaf water content (LWC) between young leaves and mature leaves should be recognized as a source of discrepancy before considering using weight-related traits in developing LA estimation model. Use of 120 to 160 regularly-shape leaves were sufficient for creating an accurate LA estimation if the selected leaves were evenly distributed and covering wide range of leaf size in habanero chili.

Development of Loop-mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) for rapid detection of Methicillin-resistance Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) from dairy cattle

Laohasatian, T., Eardmusic, S., Seritrakul, P. — Tue, 15 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0700

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a major cause of mastitis in dairy cattle, resulting in the loss of economic value in livestock. The gene mecA encodes penicillin-binding protein 2A (PB2A), which only binds weakly to β-lactam antibiotics such as penicillin and methicillin, thus conferring the antibiotic resistant property in MRSA. Currently, detection of MRSA in laboratory setting is commonly performed using bacterial culture or PCR assay targeting mecA gene, which is time-consuming, labor-intensive, and requires specialized personnel and equipment. Therefore, a more rapid detection of MRSA is needed to effectively prevent the spread of MRSA. In this study, a novel Loop-mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) assay that can detect MRSA more conveniently, quickly, and accurately was developed. Bacterial culture were isolated from milk samples from dairy cattle with mastitis and PCR primers were designed to target femA, blaZ, and mecA gene to detect Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), penicillin-resistant S. aureus, and methicillin-resistance S. aureus, respectively. We found that all isolates possessed femA and blaZ genes, and 30% of the isolates possessed mecA gene. For LAMP assay development, primers were designed to target the coding region of mecA gene, and LAMP reactions were monitored in real-time using the fluorescence labelling of the amplified products. We were able to detect the presence of MRSA quickly, and the results were consistent with those obtained by PCR and by bacterial culture. These results indicated that the LAMP assay successfully detected mecA gene in MRSA strains isolated from dairy cattle milk, and this assay could be further developed into a test kit to be used in the field

Productivity of five entomopathogenic nematodes in Galleria mellonella L. and their persistence in soil under laboratory conditions

Noitubtim, P., Caoili, B. L., Noosidum, A. — Tue, 15 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0700

The persistence and reproductive ability of entomopathogenic nematodes (EPN) are important factors to consider in insect biological control agents. Therefore, the present study compared the persistence and productivity of five EPN isolates namely, Steinernema glaseri, S. siamkayai, S. carpocapsae All, Heterorhabditis bacteriophora and H. indica EPNKU80 in Galleria mellonella larvae. The productivity among the EPN significantly varied among the nematode species. Generally, Heterorhabditis species produced more infective juveniles (IJ) than Steinernema species in the cadaver. The IJ production was highest in H. bacteriophora but was not statistically different from H. indica (EPNKU80). In contrast, the lowest number of IJ was produced by S. carpocapsae All. The persistence test showed that H. bacteriophora had the highest penetration ability and had the greatest number of EPN produce inside G. mellonella larvae at all exposure times than the other EPN species. In addition, the highest efficacy was observed in H. bacteriophora (84.40%) at 15 day after application, which was statistically different from S. glaseri (63.30%), S. siamkayai (59.10%), H. indica EPNKU80 (58.50%) and S. carpocapsae All (19.30%). It concluded that Heterorhabditis species was higher soil persistence and IJ reproduction than Steinernema species which used for insect control.

Effect of feeding banana stalk on the physical quality and nutritive value of eggs, fatty acid profile, and lipid quality index in yolk of laying hens under a free-range rearing system in bamboo plantation

Tue, 15 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0700

Animal welfare in the livestock systems is a major concern around the world. Consumers, stakeholders, and governments increasingly desire and administer the well-being and better management of animals kept for food production. The performance of natural behaviors is one aspect of animal welfare that typically resonates strongly with the general public. More natural living condition is thought to be achievable, in the case of laying hens, by providing access to an area outside a building. Feeding banana stalk laying hens under a free-range rearing system in bamboo plantation (FBS-FRRS) is the distinctive method in Don Rae subdistrict, Ratchaburi province, Thailand. The results showed that the battery cage rearing system (CON) and FBS-FRRS had a significantly higher shell color score as well as the redness and yellow value of boiled yolk (P<0.05). FBS-FRRS albumen and whole eggs had significantly higher protein content than the CON group (P<0.05). However, FBS-FRRS yolk had significantly lower dry matter, ether extract, and gross energy CON yolk (P<0.05). Furthermore, FBS-FRRS increased total cholesterol and decreased iodine content in the yolk (P<0.05). Additionally, ∑MUFA, ∑PUFA, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, DHA, ∑Omega3, ∑Omega-6 and ∑Omega-9 contents of yolk increased in the FBS-FRRS groups (P<0.05). Likewise, FBS-FRRS had a significant decrease in thrombogenicity index (P<0.05), indicating potential benefits for health-conscious consumers. In conclusion, the result showed that FBS-FRRS can be used by farmers. It has the potential to be one aspect of animal welfare management in enhancing yolk color and functional eggs production

Dietary of probiotics and organic acids supplementation on productive performances, intestinal morphology, carcass characteristics, and meat quality of broiler chickens

Nopparatmaitree, M., Plaimast, H. , Soisuwan, K. — Tue, 15 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0700

In theantibiotic-free and food safety era, broiler diet formulations emphasize theuse of innocuous feed additives such as probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, and andorganic acids. Furthermore, it is used to replace antibiotics in broilers productionin order to maintain the ecological balance of the gut, enhance intestinal morphology, increase productivity, and improve feed efficiency. Results showed that supplementation ofprobiotics and a combination of probiotics and organic acids in the level of 2kg/ton feed had significantly higher (P<0.05) villi height when comparedwith other treatments. It was also discovered that probiotics and organic acidssupplementation improved (P<0.05) feed conversion ratio of broilers in the starter period (1-21 days) in comparison to the other groups. However, therewas no effect of any of the dietary treatments on growth performance during thegrower period (22-42 days) or the finisher period (43-56 days). Likewise, probiotics, organic acids, and combinations of probiotics and organic acids had no effecton broiler carcass traits or meat quality characteristics. However, probioticsand organic acids had no effect on carcass traits in terms of increasing theproportion of breasts and lowering the percentage of abdominal fat pads (P>0.05).This experiment concluded that a 2 kg/ton feed supplementation of probiotics combined with organic acids improved growth performance in terms of feedconversion ratio and villi height of female broilers during the starter period

Fungal flora of mechanic workshops and its bioremediation

Okigbo, R. N., Okafor, S. P. — Tue, 15 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0700

The study was carried out to isolate and identify the fungi species present in contaminated soil samples from various mechanic workshops and also evaluate their biodegradation potential. Soil samples were obtained from three locations and one gram of each was added to nine milliliter of distilled water to give a tenfold serial dilution of which was made up to 10^-3 dilution. Zero point one milliliter aliquot of 10^-3 of each sample was pour-plated on prepared Sabouraud Dextrose Agar (SDA) and incubated at 25⁰C for 5 days for isolation of the heterotrophic and hydrocarbonclastic fungi. The fungal species isolated were seven namely; Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus terreus, Aspergillus fumigatus, Candida albicans, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Fusarium solani and Penicillium chrysogenum. The fungal counts ranged from 1.6 x 10^-4 to 5.1 x 10^-4(cfu/ml) There was variation in the morphological and microscopic characteristics of the seven fungal isolates. The percentage occurrence amongst the fungal isolates was higher in Aspergillus niger (41.17%) followed by Aspergillus terreus(17.64%), Aspergillus fumigatus(17.64%), Fusarium solani (5.88%), Saccharomyces cerevisiae (5.88%), Candida albicans(5.88%), and Penicilluim chrysogenum(5.88%). The biodegradation potential of the fungal isolates were confirmed using used engine oil as sole source carbon and energy through the vapour phase transfer method and Aspergillus niger was demonstrated as the most versatile among other isolates, making it a promising candidate for bioremediation of soil polluted with petroleum hydrocarbons. Thus, these oil-degrading microbes are abundant in soil and can be applied for bioremediation of soils contaminated with petroleum and petroleum products

Facilitation of agricultural skills for promoting future careers of special students at Phrae Panyanukul School in Phrae Province

Poungsuk, P., Kruadsungnoen, C., Junlex, P. — Tue, 15 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0700

Research findings showed that the agricultural teaching modules on laying hen farming, catfish farming, vegetable growing, quail farming and agricultural yield processing could develop agricultural skills of the students at a moderate up to a highest level. The data collection in the past 5 years found that the students preferred and developed the agricultural skills in activities on laying hen farming the most (64.80%). Overall, about 40% of the students had a good level of agricultural skills ( =3.52; S.D =1.452). Only 11.27% needed teacher’s suggestions and prompting on agricultural practice. It was found that the student’s learning achievement after the promotion was higher than before, with a statistically significant difference level at 0.05. Most of the students (80.28%) could do farming well with their parents, while only 8.45% could do farming independently. Parents of the students were satisfied with agricultural skill development of the students at a high level ( =3.65; S.D.=0.308); with the highest level of reason due to its being diverse and continual to gain experience in agricultural career ( =4.54; S.D.=0.581). For problems encountered after graduation, most of the students lacked of continuity in agricultural careers and agricultural development (65.50%). For suggestions about agricultural skill development, teaching and learning activities should be arranged in small size. Furthermore, diverse agricultural skills should be promoted to benefit in the daily life activities of the students (90%)

Changes in soil properties of Bangkok soil series from rice stubble burning

Preesong, J., Yampracha, S. — Tue, 15 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0700

Rice stubble burning, a very improper crop residue management, causes air pollution and soil degradation. Nevertheless, it is typically practiced by today’s Thai farmers. The results indicated that the soils in the four plots were all clayey soil, which was an established characteristic of Bangkok soil series. The results showed higher content of soil organic carbon, higher contents of total nitrogen and total sulfur, as well as higher cation exchange capacity of the soil managed with no rice stubble burning at the depth of 0-15 cm. These differences were verified to be the effect of stubble burning on the topsoil because there were no differences detected in the subsoil, not any other factors. Nevertheless, the soil pH and exchangeable Ca of the soil managed by rice stubble burning were higher. Since the level of soil organic carbon was the strongest indicator of soil fertility, it would be communicated to the farmers that managing crop residue by stubble burning would make the soil less fertile than no stubble burning

Guidelines for developing the management potential of an organic rice farmers group in Chun District, Phayao Province

Tue, 15 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0700

The guidelines for developing the management potential of an organic rice farmers group in Chun District, Phayao Province, in Thailand are investigated. The result revealed that farmers in the strong group had 6.87 years of organic rice cultivation experience, 480.36kg (per rai) of production, and an average net income (per rai) of 4,177.83baht, with being certified only 20.56% by Organic Farming Standards. The hypothesis testing revealed that farmers in strong and weak groups had differing opinions on the potential management operation at a statistical level of 0.05 in seven aspects. These consisted of leader and management, operation planning, marketing management, knowledge and information management, member management, product management, and operation. Therefore, the guidelines for developing the management potential of an organic rice farmers group in Chun District, Phayao Province were three aspects of development as creating a new generation of farmers as a leader, developing group management process and making the development plan of the potential organic rice production for members continuously. In addition, the relevant government agencies should promote mentoring as the tool of transferring knowledge and production skills, exchanging experience, and connecting to the market for learning between two groups of farmers. They must advise, support and assist the farmers in implementing operations to achieve the goal effectively, especially in the early stage of farmers are promoted the organic rice production to farmers

Study on farmer’s economic status and acceptability of goat farm management technology: A case study in the lower central region and the upper southern region of Thailand

Tue, 15 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0700

The results showed that the most farmers were male (67.12%), age between 31 to 40 years old (72.03 %) and 51.81% had high school education status, and 57.63 %of farmers had an experience of about 5 to 10 years in raising goat. Most of the farmers had an average 76 goats/family; 89.37% of them raised semi-caged goat. About 63.45 % of the farmers did not receive consulting opportunity for farm management form experts.The total averaged income was 226,401 THB/year. About 86.77% of goat sales were made with dealers. The goat farm management transfer was accepted in level in terms of breed and breeding management (3.68); good level on farm management, feeding, housing, and sanitation (2.98, 3.25, 3.07, and 2.51), and medium level for marketing (2.46). In the SWOT analysis of goat farming, it was found that the sheep farming career was consistent with the way of life as well as religion and traditions of the Muslim community in the selected area as strengths; marketing problems due to lack of slaughterhouses, no clear market system, and only few marketing resources available were the weaknesses; creation of policy by the government agencies to develop a network of sheep and goat farmers as an opportunity; and lastly, smuggling from neighboring countries making the goat products vulnerable to disease control was an obstacle

Phytochemical screening of indigenous plants utilized by the Agta community in Aurora, Philippines

Rocha, P. P. V., Gargabite, B. F. L., Jacob, J. K. S., Abucay Jr., J. B. — Tue, 15 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0700

Plants have long been recognized as a potential source of herbal and medicinal representatives before establishing modern and therapeutic medicine. The Philippines is home to a diverse range of indigenous flora communities, an essential source of ethnobotanical components. This study focused on detecting the phytochemical profile of indigenous plants to verify the folkloric beliefs of the Agta Community of Bazal-Baubo in Aurora, Philippines. Preliminary phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, anthraquinone, flavonoids, glycosides, saponins, steroids, tannins, and terpenoids in the plants’ ethanol extract, namely: Manihot esculenta (Euphorbiaceae), Premna odorata (Lamiaceae), Terminalia macrocarpa (Combretaceae), Syzygium polycephaloides (Myrtaceae), and Urena lobata (Malvaceae). The analysis confirmed that five indigenous plants utilized by the Agta community have a potential source of plant bioactive constituents. It is strongly recommended that pharmacological screenings and functionality of plant extract such as antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant to validate plants’ phytochemistry

Evaluation on salinity tolerance of new maize hybrids at early growth and their performance in coastal field

Tue, 15 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0700

The stress of 150 mM NaCl decreased the growth and vigor of maize seedlings. Assessment on tolerance to NaCl stress of maize which elaborating stress tolerance index (STI) resulted in huge variation on tolerance of 20 genotypes to salinity stress. Based on a mean value of STI=0.15 and =0.05, a hybrid was classified tolerant when its STI>0.18. Hybrids of H31, H33, H34, H48, and H50 were considered tolerant, while H16, H18, H19, H22, H25, H32, H42, and H49 were medium tolerant to saline stress. The hybrids exhibited high variation in the field performances, in either vegetative growth or yield components. The hybrids with highest yield in coastal field was H32. However, other hybrids also performed well and had the yield which were not significantly different from H32. They were H17, H19, H29, H31, H33, H34, H48, H50 and H51. All of these salinity tolerant hybrids were prospective to grow in coastal area

Effect of drying methods during priming on quality and longevity of rice seeds

Sangkrabun, P., Sikhao, P. — Tue, 15 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0700

The best suitable drying method for primed Khao Dawk Mali 105 rice seeds was used a hot air oven at 30 °C for 36 h and stored them in the uncontrolled environment. There was resulted to be lowest moisture, highest germination percentage and germination index for primed seeds. This method can keep the moisture in rice seeds low, reduce the process of decaying and extend the longevity and quality of primed rice seeds

Isolation and optimization to enhance anti-Streptococcus suis bacteriocin production by Lactobacillus plantarum RB01-SO

Showpanish, K., Sonhom, N., Janyaphisan, T., Woraprayote, W., Rumjuankiat, K. — Tue, 15 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0700

One hundred and twenty lactic acid bacteria (LAB) isolated from traditional Thai fermented vegetable products were tested against Streptococcus suis an important food borne pathogen causing severe disease in pig farming and consumers. Only one isolate designated as “RB01-SO” inhibited S. suis, and also Bacillus subtilis, Enterococcus faecalis, Lactobacillus sakei, Lactococcus lactis, Listeria innocua, Listeria monocytogenes, Micrococcus luteus, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus agalactiae, Aeromonas veronii, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella Typhimurium and Vibrio harveyi. Inhibitory activities of RB01-SO cell free supernatant (CFS) were completely destroyed by various proteolytic enzymes including trypsin, α-chymotrypsin and pepsin, indicative of the proteinaceous or bacteriocin nature of the antimicrobial substance of RB01-SO. Bacteriocin production was highest when strain RB01-SO was cultured in MRS broth supplemented with 1% NaCl and initial pH of 7.0. Highest anti-S. suis activity of 400 AU/mL was obtained from the CFS after the bacterium was incubated at 30°C for 12 h at the above mentioned condition. Anti-S. suis activity of the CFS still remained after freeze-drying, suggesting its stability under the drying process. LAB that produced anti-S. suis agent with promising characteristics were successfully screened and isolated and showed potential for use in the food and feed industries

Phytochemical efficiency, fumigant toxicity and repellent activity of certain plant extract against storage rice weevil (Tribolium castaneum)

Shunmugadevi, C., Maheshwari, K., Anburadhika, S. — Tue, 15 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0700

An assessment was made about the phytochemical constituents of ethanolic extract of Cassia auriculata, Moringa oleifera, and Plectranthus amboinicus, as well as fumigant toxicity and repellent activity against the rice weevil, Tribolium castaneum (Herbst) (Coleoptera Tenebrionidae). A variety of phytochemical components were evaluated by the crude extract, including alkaloids, phenols, steroids, reducing sugars, tannins, anthraquinones, terpenoids, flavonoids, and saponins. Using the topical application toxicity method, the adult beetles were exposed to plant extracts for 24, 48, and 72 hours. Cassia auriculata expressed the greatest mortality of (63.2±0.8% and LC50 value was 31.62(mg/ml)) in Tribolium castaneum, followed by Plectranthus amboinicus (55.22±0.8% & LC50 value was 44.66 mg/ml), and Moringa oleifera (47.2±0.8% and LC50 value was 63.09 mg/ml) after 72 hours. Cassia auriculata was also found to be highly repellent against rice pests with 42.4±0.97 %. It is recommended that phytochemical activity expressed an effective protection of stored grains from Tribolium castaneum.

Nanofibers derived from endophytic Chaetomium brasilense for growth stimulation of rice

Song, J. J., Soytong, K., Thianrat, L. — Tue, 15 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0700

Chaetomiumn brasilense PT302 was endophytically isolated from rice var Supanburi 1 and Prathumthani 80 which firstly selected for investigation to promote the growth of rice. It is morphologically and molecular phylogenetic confirmation through ITS1 and ITS4 as Ch.brasilense PT302 compared to Achaetomium strumarium (JX863914) as out group. Crude metabolites (crude hexane, crude ethyl acetate and crude methanol) at 50 ppm from Ch. brasiliense were proved to promote seed germination of rice var. Supanburi 1 and Pathumtani 80 at 7 days which found significantly higher seed germination than the non-treated control. Nanofibers constructed Ch. brasiliense promoted significantly higher seed germination, plant height and number of tillers than the non-treated control in rice var Supanburi 1 and Prathumthani 80 in 7 days at low concentration of 5 ppm planted in Chachengsao and Bangkok soil series. Nanofibers derived from endophytic Ch. brasilense is actively promoted plant growth at lower concentration than crude metabolites. It is firstly reported the natural product nanofiber constructed from endophytic Ch. brasilense to stimulate plant growth

Simultaneous and sensitive detection of CVB, CChMVd and CSVd mixed infections in chrysanthemum using multiplex nested RT-PCR

Supakitthanakorn, S., Vichittragoontavorn, K., Kunasakdakul, K., Ruangwong, O. — Tue, 15 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0700

Chrysanthemum plants are susceptible to infect by viral and viroid diseases. Early detection of these pathogens helps to prevent disease spread. Multiplex RT-PCR can simultaneously detect many virus and viroid in a single reaction, and applying multiplex nested PCR can improve the sensitivity of the detection. Chrysanthemum leaves were collected from cultivation areas in Northern Thailand. Multiplex nested RT-PCR using specific outer and inner primer pairs for detection of Chrysanthemum virus B (CVB), Chrysanthemum chlorotic mottle viroid (CChMVd), and Chrysanthemum stunt viroid (CSVd) were used for simultaneous detection. Among 15 randomly selected samples, one sample showed co-infections of CVB and CChMVd, and two samples showed multiple infections of all pathogens. Furthermore, multiplex nested RT-PCR detected amplicons of CChMVd and CSVd that were not detected by the first-round PCR. Also, sequence analysis was used to confirm the correction of amplified fragments and revealed that all amplicons were more than 93% identical compared to corresponding sequences deposited in the GenBank. Therefore, multiplex nested RT-PCR can be used for routine detection and diagnosis of virus and viroid diseases. This is the first detection of mixed infections (disease complex) both virus and viroid in the chrysanthemum of Thailand.

Intraguild interaction, attack patterns, and community structure of maize caterpillar in Bali province, Indonesia

Tue, 15 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0700

Research on intraguild interaction, attack patterns, and community structure of maize caterpillar has been carried out in Bali province, Indonesia. The results showed that the population abundance index value was low (R1 = 1.08-1.91), while the diversity index value (H') was moderate with a value of 1.18-1.67, the similarity index value was in the very high category, namely IS = 100% , and the dominance index is moderate to low (D) with a value of 0.33-0.43. Found 3 guilds associated with maize in the field, namely stem-eating groups (Ostrinia furnacalis), leaf-eating groups (Spodoptera frugiperda, Mythimna separata, Spodoptera litura and Cnaphalocrocis medinalis), and cob-eating groups (Helicoverpa armigera). There is no competition between these caterpillars because each has a different profession. Caterpillar pest that attack corn plants are evenly distributed in all districts/cities in Bali Province with a random distribution pattern

Development and evaluation of the formula for healthy mushroom beverage with high β-glucan prepared from Schizophyllum commune Fr. in Thailand

Thumrongchote, D., Mongkontanawat, N. — Tue, 15 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0700

Schizophyllum commune Fr., an edible macrofungus, and is a fungus with the unique taste and high β-glucan content. Therefore, the beverage with high β-glucan was evaluated the qualities of the beverage formula. Results was exhibited that the formula of S. commune beverage was prepared by the ratio of the dried powder of 1-day-old fruting bodies of S. commune with water at a ration of 1:15, and varied the amount of honey and lime juice. The criterion used for selecting the best formula was the amount of β-glucan content and antioxidant properties. The formulation contained with 10% honey and 1 % lime juice received the highest the sensory scores of most acceptable (7.03+1.00), with total phenolic compound of 1.23 + 0.11 mg/ml and amount of β-glucan content of 7.24 + 0.31 % v/v as well as high potential antioxidant activity of 82.43 + 0.61 DPPH % and 91.91 + 0.23 ABTS % (p < 0.05). Then, the formula development of beverage by using ratio profile test (RPT) which found to be closedly related to an ideal formula contained 10% honey and 1.5% lemon juice, which had 7.99 + 0.31% (v/v) β-glucan and potential antioxidant activity of 82.92 + 0.43 DPPH %, and 92.55 + 0.33 ABTS % which was higher than the control formula. The physical and chemical characteristic of the product was 2.25+ 0.03 lightness (L*), (-1.25)+ 0.07 redness (a*), 2.35+ 0.07 yellowness (b*), 14.40 + 0.10 °Brix total soluble solid, 3.61+ 0.01 pH, 89.86 + 0.06 % moisture content, 0.36 +0.01 % protein content, and 8.67 + 0.07 % carbohydrate content. Viable plate count, yeast and mold count exhibited less than 10 CFU/ml. The study resulted to be benefit to the local beverage industry in Thailand

Implementing payment environmental services in Langbiang Biosphere Reserve, Vietnam

Ton, T. M., Le, V. T. , Pham, N. D. H. — Tue, 15 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0700

Langbiang Biosphere Reserve (total area of 275,439 hectares) is in the North of Lam Dong Province, in Southern Highland Region, Vietnam. The biosphere reserve the global values of biodiversity and diverse natural landscapes in the mixture with the unique gong cultural space in the Central Highlands. The sustainable financing mechanisms for conservation based on payment for forest environmental services (PFES) was established successfully. Through PFES, There were around 8,000 households benefited from PFES in this biosphere reserve through their contributions to the protection and maintenance of ecological values. However, there was a lack of discussion and information sharing among stakeholders, especially between the buyer and seller. Mechanisms for information sharing need transparency and time

Ribeye areas and sizes of fattening culled dairy carcasses determination using plastic grid and geometric methods

Tuntivisoottikul, K., Pomasa, P., Sivapirunthep, P. — Tue, 15 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0700

The ribeye areas (REA) of fattening culled dairy carcasses which measured using geometric method (GM) were significantly higher than those using plastic grid (PG) method with the averages of 84.12 and 81.42 sq.cm., respectively (p<0.01). The factor of ribeye sizes had highly significantly influenced on REA. The averages of REA for small, medium, and large sizes were 61.94, 80.85, and 105.51 sq.cm., respectively (p<0.01). In addition, the interaction between the fators of method and size affected on the REA. The averages REA of large size measured by GM method was 108.77 sq.cm higher than that measured by PG method 102.26 sq.cm. (p<0.05), whereas there was not significant difference for the small and medium sizes measured by both methods

Egg production, quality, and hatchability rates of Philippine ducks (Anas luzonica) in response to low-cost cassava-based rations

Villaver, J. P., Zacal, A. L., Gabaya, N. E., Cantila, M. L. — Tue, 15 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0700

It is the firstly reported the effects of cassava-based ingredients at the inclusion of 30 to 40% (cassava meal and cassava leaf meal) on the overall ducks' egg performance, quality, and hatchability. The different treatments significantly impacted the ducks' egg production and quality parameters except for the hatchability rates (df=4, 8; F=0.42; P=>0.05). Treatment 4 (pure commercial feeds) produced the highest number of eggs per year (df=4, 8; F=29.36; P=000) at 277 and followed by treatment 5 (farmer-based formulation and commercial feeds [1:1 ratio] at 200. In terms of the quality parameters, the ducks in treatments 1 (30% cassava-based ration), 2 (35% cassava-based ration), and 3 (40% cassava-based ration) produced medium eggs with 31.74%, 27.01%, and 28.52%, respectively. The ducks yielded extra-large eggs in treatment 4 at 37.68% and treatment 5 at 40.69%. Treatment 4 produced the heaviest weight per egg at 60.0 g (df=4, 8; F=8.13; P=<0.01) while Treatment 2 produced the heaviest shell at 11.0 g (df=4, 8; F=6.68; P=<0.05). The egg performance of ducks fed with cassava-based materials is not comparable to those fed with pure commercial feeds and a combination of farmer-based formulation with commercial feeds (1:1 ratio). Further study is recommended to increase the study duration to three months to attain the peak of egg production, especially for the cassava-based ration-fed ducks.