ASEAN Journal of Scientific and Technological Reports

Enhancing Growth and Nutritional Components of Hydroponic Mulato II Grass Using Moringa Leaf Extract as a Priming Agent

Roger Y. Ibañez — 2026-01-18

Forage grasses are vital for livestock nutrition and sustainability but face challenges due to climate change and land degradation. This study aimed to enhance the germination, growth, and nutritional quality of Mulato II grass by utilizing Moringa oleifera leaf extract (MLE) as a priming agent. A Completely Randomized Design (CRD) was employed, testing five treatments (unprimed seeds, hydropriming, and MLE priming for 6, 12, and 18 hours), and each treatment was replicated three times. Growth parameters, biomass, and nutritional composition were analyzed statistically at a 5% significance level, with post-hoc comparisons performed using Tukey’s Honestly Significant Difference (HSD) test. MLE priming for 18 hours significantly (p<0.05) enhanced performance, yielding the highest vigor index (5326.67), fresh herbage yield (196.32 t/ha), and DM yield (57.70 t/ha). Nutritional analysis revealed a significant difference (p < 0.0001) in ether extract (EE) content (4.54%) with MLE priming for 12 hours, while crude protein content (16.76%) and total nitrogen content (3.05%) were significantly higher with MLE priming for 18 hours. Hydropriming and MLE priming for 18 hours also significantly (p = 0.0137) achieved the highest final emergence percentage (FEP = 53.33%). The findings show that MLE priming, especially when primed for 18 hours, significantly enhances the growth and nutritional value of Mulato II grass. It is recommended as a sustainable strategy for improving forage production, with future studies focusing on long-term effects and cost-effective scaling.

The Batch Adsorption Process of Basic Dyes Using Dialium Cochinchinensis Seed Activated Carbon: Kinetics and Isotherms

Memoon Sattar — 2026-01-21

The seeds of Dialium cochinchinense, an agricultural byproduct, were converted into an eco-friendly and cost-effective activated carbon (DSAC) for the adsorption of basic dyes, namely Rhodamine B (RB) and Crystal Violet (CV), from aqueous solutions. Batch adsorption experiments were performed to evaluate the effects of key parameters, including initial dye concentration, contact time, adsorbent dosage, and solution pH. The adsorption kinetics followed the pseudo-second-order model, indicating that chemisorption may play a role in the adsorption process. Equilibrium data were best fitted by the Langmuir isotherm model, with correlation coefficients (R²) close to 1, suggesting monolayer adsorption. The maximum adsorption capacities (qₘ) were 416.67 mg g⁻¹ for RB and 526.32 mg g⁻¹ for CV at 30 °C. These results demonstrate that DSAC is a sustainable, efficient, and economically viable adsorbent with strong potential for industrial wastewater treatment applications.

Development and Performance Analysis of an Improved Biomass Stove for Krajood Dyeing: A Sustainable Appropriate Technology Approach

Palachai Khaonuan — 2026-01-18

This research developed an improved biomass stove for dyeing Krajood (Lepironia articulata) as a sustainable, appropriate technology for small-scale industry applications. The new design features an integrated water reserve tank, improved combustion chamber, heat shield, and robust support structure while maintaining operational simplicity. Performance evaluation revealed the improved stove reduced PM2.5 emissions at the operator position by 72.25% (from 191±16 to 53±7 μg/m³, p=0.0002), decreased water boiling time by 32.73% (from 55±6 to 37±3 minutes, p=0.0097), shortened dyeing time by 52.43% (from 103±7 to 49±3 minutes, p=0.0006), and lowered ambient temperature at the operator position by 46.45% (from 62.0±4.8°C to 33.2±1.7°C, p=0.0003). These improvements collectively enabled a five-fold increase in daily production capacity from 20 bundles (44 kg) to 100 bundles (220 kg) in an 8-hour workday. Colorimetric analysis confirmed no significant differences in Lab* values between traditionally and newly dyed Krajood at all measurement positions (p>0.05), ensuring quality preservation despite the process modifications. Economic assessment indicates the 71.4% higher initial investment (12,000 vs. 7,000 THB) is rapidly offset by productivity gains. The design exemplifies appropriate technology principles through its simplicity, local material utilization, and alignment with existing production knowledge. This improved stove addresses critical health and efficiency constraints in traditional Krajood processing while preserving product quality, demonstrating how targeted technological interventions can enhance traditional craft productivity and worker wellbeing in rural communities.

Facile Assembly of Herbal-Organic and Inorganic Composite for Enhancing Antioxidant and Antibacterial Efficiency

Sonchai Intachai — 2026-01-18

This study focused on the fabrication of multifunctional organic–inorganic composites composed of mixed herbal extracts from mangosteen peel (MP), pomelo peel (PP), and cucumber (CP) peel, biomass-derived activated carbon (AC), and zinc oxide@ZnAl-layered double hydroxide (ZnO@ZnAl-LDH) by a mechanochemical solid–solid process. The as-synthesized composites were characterized using XRD, FT-IR, and zeta potential analyses, and their biological activities were evaluated. The MP/PP/CP@AC/LDH composite exhibited superior antioxidant performance, with IC₅₀ values of 136.6 µg/mL for DPPH radicals and 195.8 µg/mL for ABTS radicals, which were significantly lower than those of single-extract or single-host systems. The enhanced radical-scavenging behavior was attributed to the synergistic host–guest and guest–guest interactions among ZnO, ZnAl-LDH, AC, and bioactive compounds. Moreover, the composite demonstrated the pronounced antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and partial inhibition toward Escherichia coli, owing to reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and membrane disruption. These findings suggested that MP/PP/CP@AC/LDH was a promising multifunctional herbal material for antioxidant and antimicrobial applications.

Crickets As An Alternative Source of Protein: Development of Nutritious Local Foods and a Cost-Benefit Analysis

Natsima Tokhun — 2026-01-18

This study aimed to develop processed food products incorporating cricket powder by creating formulas that optimize both nutritional benefits and consumer acceptability. The findings indicated that formulas incorporating cricket powder at 0.33%, 1.20%, and 0.33% by weight were optimal for pork sausages, grilled pork sausages, and pork meatballs, respectively. This aligned with the results regarding color and textural qualities, where the majority of scores were comparable to the control groups, while the water activity score was relatively high, potentially influencing microbial growth in the food. The three food products were rich in essential nutrients required by the body, including macronutrients and micronutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins B1 and B2, sodium, potassium, iron, and calcium. Furthermore, the protein content in pork meatball and pork sausage products complied with the Thai Community Product Standard (TCPS304/2555 and TCPS102/2555). The nutritional value per serving provided energy of 170, 150, and 80 kilocalories for grilled pork sausage, pressed sausage, and pork meatballs, respectively. Furthermore, the cost-benefit analysis indicated that project expenses comprised 93.33% fixed costs and 6.67% variable costs. The returns from this project will be beneficial over the following five years, as the NPV (38,790.29 USD) ≥ 0, the BCR (3.76) ≥ 0, and the IRR (31.80%) ≥ 5% interest rate of the cost of capital. The cricket protein serves as an alternative that can enhance the nutritional value of local food products and represents a prudent investment of project funds to bolster local community enterprises.

Development of Probiotic Soy Yogurt Containing Kale Powder: Evaluation of Functional and Plant-Based Properties

Vijitra Plongbunjong — 2026-01-20

: Probiotic soy yogurt containing kale powder represents a promising plant-based functional product suitable for lactose-intolerant individuals and health-conscious consumers. This study aimed to develop and characterize soy-based probiotic yogurts containing kale powder at concentrations of 0%, 1%, 3%, and 5% (w/w). All formulations were standardized to an initial total soluble solids (TSS) content of 15 °Brix and fermented at 43 ± 1 °C for 8 hours using a commercial yogurt starter and probiotic culture. The yogurt containing 1% kale powder exhibited the most desirable physicochemical and functional properties, including favorable fermentation characteristics (pH 4.63, titratable acidity 0.75 ± 0.03%), the highest viable lactic acid bacteria (LAB) count (8.37 ± 0.05 log CFU/g), and optimal curd structure. Sensory evaluation using a 9-point hedonic scale with thirty untrained panelists confirmed its highest overall acceptability (7.93 ± 0.74). Chemical composition analysis revealed slight variations among formulations, with the 1% kale-containing yogurt showing relatively higher levels of protein (3.49 g/100 g), dietary fiber (0.95 g/100 g), carbohydrate (10.6 g/100 g), energy (65.6 Cal/100 g), and vitamin K₁ (4.94 µg/100 g), reflecting the natural contribution of kale powder rather than fortification. During 21 days of storage at 4 ± 1 °C, the 1% kale-containing yogurt maintained probiotic viability above 7.0 log CFU/g, consistent with internationally recognized efficacy criteria for probiotic products. No yeast and mold growth was detected during storage. These findings highlight, for the first time, the feasibility of formulating probiotic soy yogurt containing kale powder with desirable product quality and functional potential, aligning with current trends in plant-based fermented foods.

Organic White Corn (Zea mays L. IPB var. 6) Production through the Integration of Bio-fertilizer on Chicken Manure

Daniel B. Tangpos — 2026-01-20

White corn is the most important substitute staple in periods of rice shortage. Currently, there is an increasing global trend toward reducing dependence on synthetic fertilizers. The increasing demand for organic produce among health-conscious consumers is driving the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices, including the use of organic fertilizers and bio-fertilizers to meet plant nutrient needs. A field experiment was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of bio-fertilizer added to chicken manure in terms of growth, yield, and physicochemical characteristics of corn. The study used a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) consisting of five treatments with three replications each, and data were collected on the growth, yield, and physicochemical parameters of corn. Data were analyzed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) in RCBD, and Comparisons among means were performed using Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT) to determine the specific significant differences among treatments. One-half the recommended rate of Azospirillum combined with half the recommended rate of Mykovam® at half the amount of chicken manure was comparable to using the full-recommended inorganic fertilizer in terms of plant height, days to silking, ear height, and average length of ears. Moreover, the same treatment combination significantly affected all growth and yield parameters, except for plant stand and average number of ears, which were comparable to using the full-recommended rate of chicken manure. The overall results of this study suggest that combining bio-fertilizer with organic amendments, like chicken manure, using only half the recommended rate, can effectively enhance corn production.

Early Root Development and Yield Performance of Different Corn (Zea mays L.) Varieties Under Alkaline Soil

Elvira D. Jamio — 2026-01-20

Early root vegetative stages of corn are critical in transitioning to the independent phase, wherein roots support development and improved nutrient uptake that may influence yield. Thus, the study assessed the root development of different corn varieties at the vegetative 4 (V4) stage and its relationship to yield, and to evaluate its performance under alkaline soil using a Randomized Complete Block Design. Data on root morphological traits were measured at the V4 stage, while yield parameters were assessed after harvest. Data were analyzed using ANOVA in RCBD, and the relationship between early root growth and yield was assessed using Pearson's correlation. The results showed that varieties TCT 476A and TCT 1868 significantly outperformed, producing higher yields across parameters, with computed yields of 9.23 t/ha and 9.27 t/ha, respectively, while CGUARD VII-002 exhibited reduced performance, having significantly lower yield. Results demonstrated that differences in yield performance among varieties can be attributed to genotype-environment interactions. Moreover, root morphological traits at the V4 stage showed no significant differences, indicating that all varieties exhibit comparable root morphological characteristics at this stage. However, root morphological traits at the V4 stage revealed no significant linear relationship with yield and yield components, suggesting that the early vegetative stage is not a reliable predictor of yield. The findings highlight that the V4 stage primarily supports establishment rather than yield formation, and fertilizer application strategies must align with efficient nutrient demand to optimize yield. Further research on later stages of root development is suggested to corroborate the preliminary findings.

Fiber Yield and Characterization of Locally Grown Abaca (Musa textilis Née) Cultivars in Aklan, Philippines

Gene T. Señeris — 2026-01-20

Abaca (Musa textilis Née) is a natural fiber-producing plant that is endemic to the Philippines. It is primarily grown for its fibers in textile and industrial applications. Currently, five locally described Abaca cultivars are grown in Aklan: Tabukanon, Bisaya, Agbayanon, Negro, and Totoo. Limited information exists, and no in-depth research has been conducted on the yield of these Abaca cultivars. The study investigated the fiber yield performance of Abaca cultivars in Aklan using a linear mixed-effects model (LMM) and Tukey’s HSD method at a 5% level to determine differences between cultivars. Findings highlighted highly significant differences among cultivars in terms of tuxy weight, extracted fiber weight, dry weight, moisture content, fiber length, and fiber count. Findings revealed that significant differences were observed in the inner layers of tuxy, extracted fibers, moisture content, and fiber length, while in the outer layers, significant differences were observed only in dry weight and fiber count. Moreover, no significant differences were observed in the tuxy weight, extracted fiber, moisture content, and fiber length for the outer layers, whereas extracted fiber and dry weight were significantly different for the inner layers. The study highlighted that Bisaya and Tabukanon exhibited high inner fiber yield and tuxy weight but have shorter fiber lengths and potential for commercial production. In contrast, the Totoo cultivar produced a high fiber count; however, it had lower tensile strength, shorter length, and lower dry weight. Among all cultivars, Negro exhibited significantly longer fibers (both layers), and Agbayanon had moderate fiber characteristics, which are desirable for industrial applications.

A Bibliometric Analysis of Sustainable Livestock Systems: Soil and Plant Health Perspectives

Annie Rose C. Permano — 2026-01-20

This Bibliometric analysis evaluates research on sustainable livestock systems, emphasizing plant and soil health, and examining the major trends in publications and partnerships. Analyzing 104 published articles from 2013 to 2024, the study reveals a significant increase in publication trends since 2016, peaking in 2021. An average of 5.8 authors per article reflects a strong inclination toward collaborative research—significantly higher than the 1.4–1.6 average in social sciences and humanities, and more aligned with biomedical and environmental sciences, where five or more authors are common. Despite this, co-authorship networks remain fragmented, lacking interdisciplinary collaborations essential for holistic solutions. The United States leads as a central research hub, maintaining collaborations with China and Brazil, though geographic and language clustering affect partnerships. Most studies were published by prestigious journals such as Science of the Total Environment (7 articles), Journal of Environmental Management (5), and Agriculture Ecosystems and Environment (9), with the majority available as open access. The study underscores the crucial role of open access in disseminating knowledge and fostering sustainable agricultural practices worldwide. It highlights the importance of incentivizing interdisciplinary research and fostering international collaboration. Establishing platforms for knowledge sharing, funding applied research, implementing supportive policy frameworks, investing in stakeholder training, and creating monitoring systems are essential actions. These will ensure effective and adaptive initiatives to bridge collaboration gaps and address challenges in sustainable livestock systems. These efforts contribute to resilient livestock systems, climate mitigation, biodiversity enhancement, and foster global collaboration —core elements of SDGs 2, 13, 15, and 17.

Agri-Fishery Practices through Product Resource Management, Value Addition and Commercialization Enhancement Project of Villages in Daram, Samar

Jose Marlon Refuncion Jr. — 2026-01-20

The study revealed the prevailing conditions of agri-fishery practices and value-added production in Barangays Marupangdan and Astorga in Daram, Samar. Findings indicated that Barangay Marupangdan remained dependent on traditional crop and fish harvests with minimal post-harvest technology, no value-added processing, and limited market access, resulting in low profit margins. Overproduction of hawol-hawol (Bali Sardinella) and vegetables led to waste due to the absence of storage, processing, and market linkages. In contrast, Barangay Astorga demonstrated active value addition through products galunggong-based fish balls, significantly increasing income per unit sold. Porter’s Value Chain analysis showed that Astorga's community benefited from interventions by DTI and LGU Daram in providing equipment, packaging materials, and access to trade fairs. However, both barangays still lacked essential post-harvest facilities, ICT integration, and formal marketing strategies. Women in both communities actively participated in agri-fishery production, but their associations in Marupangdan remained unregistered, limiting support opportunities. Farmers and fisherfolk expressed willingness to adopt technology and undergo training, showing potential for scaling up productivity. The study highlighted the importance of institutional aid and local government support in capacitating communities to develop sustainable agri-fishery value chains. With targeted interventions, Marupangdan could replicate Astorga’s best practices to enhance food security, income, and community resilience.

Experimental Investigation of Ozone Generation in Multi-Cell Dielectric Barrier Discharge Reactors

Phurin Chonpan — 2026-01-20

Ozone is a sustainable oxidant with applications in water treatment, air purification, and food sterilisation. Dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) reactors are attractive for ozone generation because of their simplicity and scalability. Performance depends on both plasma processes and power supply characteristics. This research examined single-, two-, and three-cell dielectric tubes DBD reactor operated under varying voltages and frequencies to assess ozone yield and energy efficiency. FTIR spectroscopy confirmed ozone as the main product and enabled extended quantification beyond portable ozone detector saturation through calibration with detector readings (R² = 0.9997). Reactor scaling-up enhanced ozone generation, with the three-cell reactor achieving 11946 ppm and 17.25 g/h at 40 kV_ppand 100 Hz, for discharge voltage and frequency, respectively. However, ozone concentrations from the two- and three-cell reactors were nearly identical across the SEI (Specific Energy Input) range due to high-voltage power supply (HVPS) limitations rather than reactor design. Efficiency analysis revealed two perspectives, based on discharge power, the ozone production efficiency (OPE) peaked at 396 g/kWh in a two-cell configuration at low SEI but declined at higher SEI owing to non-productive energy losses. Conversely, the overall ozone production efficiency (OOPE), referenced to system input power, increased with SOEI (specific overall energy input), with the two-cell reactor outperforming (16.0–22.3 g/kWh). These findings highlight the combined influence of plasma on ozone generation, offering guidance for scaling DBD reactors in industrial applications.

Valorization of White Shrimp Shell Waste: Development of Chitosan-Based Pellet Feed for Enhanced Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) Nutrition

Kanokkan Worawut — 2026-01-20

This study demonstrates the development and application of an eco-friendly Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) feed formulation incorporating chitosan extracted from white shrimp shells. The extraction process yielded purified chitosan through ultrasonic deproteinization, acid demineralization, and alkaline deacetylation, confirmed by FTIR spectrophotometry. Three experimental feed formulations containing varying chitosan levels (10%, 15%, and 20%) were prepared and evaluated through proximate analysis. Formula 2 (15% chitosan) was identified as optimal, meeting standard nutritional requirements for aquafeeds while maximizing protein content and minimizing ash levels. A 14-week growth trial using the optimal feed showed that tilapia exhibited healthy growth performance, with an average weight of 14.90 g, length of 10.05 cm, and a survival rate of 77.50%. Water quality parameters remained within acceptable ranges, confirming the environmental compatibility of the feed. These results align with previous findings that chitosan supplementation enhances feed conversion and growth in aquaculture species. This work underscores the value of converting shrimp shell waste into a functional feed additive, offering a sustainable solution for improving aquafeed quality and promoting circular economy practices in aquaculture. By integrating waste valorization and local feed production, this research contributes to safer, more sustainable fish farming while reducing reliance on chemical additives. The approach supports both environmental stewardship and community livelihood development in regions where aquaculture is an essential economic sector.

Rapid Identification of Orange Juice Adulteration Using Voltammetric Profiling and Machine Learning

Nguyen Duc Thanh — 2026-01-21

In this study, the differential pulse voltammetry with a gold electrode and machine learning was employed to detect adulteration in orange juices. The method assessed both natural and commercial juices, along with their mixtures containing known proportions of natural juice. Initially, an unsupervised machine learning algorithm, Cluster Analysis (CA), was used to highlight differences, demonstrating the ability to distinguish between natural and flavored orange juices. Subsequently, supervised machine learning methods, including Interval Partial Least Squares – Linear Discriminant Analysis (iPLS-LDA) and Interval Partial Least Squares – Random Forest (iPLS-RF), were applied for classification purposes. The RF model achieved up to 95% classification accuracy, greatly exceeding 67.5% of iPLS- LDA. This enables reliable detection of orange juice adulteration. The RF model struggled to accurately distinguish between the “Natural” and “Mixed” categories, particularly for samples containing a medium proportion of natural orange juice (around 45–50%). The integration of voltammetric fingerprints with machine learning enabled a fast, cost-effective classification method for on-site analysis with portable sensors. This approach proved more efficient than other complex analytical techniques.

Ellipsoidal Coverage Function (ECF) – a Modified Mahalanobis Radial Basis Function with Geometrical Coverage Learning (GCL) Algorithm

Tanat Piumsuwan — 2026-01-21

This research presents an Ellipsoidal Coverage Function (ECF) with the addition of the Geometrical Coverage Learning (GCL) algorithm concept for classification. The motivation for this research stems from inefficiencies in nonlinear Deep Neural Networks (DNNs). The implementation of a higher-order function for neurons, while less popular than a deeper linear design, has been claimed to improve the robustness of the model in dealing with noisy environments and to negate the need for a deeper network. The ECF is a higher-order neuron design based on the Mahalanobis distance Radial Basis Function (MRBF) design, but with the number of parameters linearly scaled instead of quadratically with respect to the input dimension. This means that the ECF neuron can approximate the volume coverage of an MRBF in the feature space under a non-rotating constraint and is more suitable for integration into a neural network for further backpropagation (BP) optimization. The integration of the GCL into the ECF for classification architectures boosts learning efficiency, underscoring the versatility and potential impact of this research. The results from experiments with computer vision tasks in a transfer learning environment suggest that the integrated GCL ensures that the ECF can map all the data and correct the training parameters of the network faster. Furthermore, the ECF with the GCL algorithm demonstrates competitive performance relative to other nonlinear neuron designs in a transfer learning setup across different datasets, including itself without GCL. These findings point to a better nonlinear machine learning model in terms of performance and efficiency combined.

Process Capability Assessment Using SPC and Cpk in the Analysis of Clay Soil Atterberg Limits: A Case Study in Pathum Thani Province

Pattaraporn Nueasri — 2026-01-20

This study evaluated the consistency and capability of the testing process for the Plasticity Index (PI) of fine-grained soils, a parameter critical for soil classification and geotechnical design, particularly in compaction and foundation analyses. Statistical Process Control (SPC) was applied using X–MR control charts to monitor process stability, while process capability was assessed through Cp and Cpk indices under specification limits of LSL = 2.00 and USL = 10.00. Trend analysis and uncertainty evaluation were also conducted to strengthen the assessment framework. Results showed that the PI testing process was statistically stable, with all data points within control limits. However, process capability indices (Cp = 0.702, Cpk = 0.616) were below the benchmark value of 1.33, indicating insufficient performance due to inherent variability. Linear regression revealed no significant time-related trend (R² = 0.1%, p = 0.864), confirming temporal consistency. Uncertainty analysis yielded an expanded uncertainty of ±0.537 at 95% confidence, equivalent to 9.7% of the mean PI. Such uncertainty suggests possible misclassification of results near specification thresholds. In conclusion, although the PI testing process was under statistical control and free of time-related drift, it exhibited substantial variability and high uncertainty. These findings emphasize the need to reduce variation and incorporate uncertainty into quality management practices, providing a more reliable basis for decision-making in geotechnical engineering applications.

Colonization of Potassium-Solubilizing Purple Nonsulfur Bacteria and Their Role in Promoting the Growth of Hybrid Maize

Vo Yen Ngoc — 2026-01-21

The use of biofertilisers to replace conventional chemical fertilisers has been widely investigated. However, the colonization of microbes in plants and their effects on plant growth are still unclear. The experiment aimed to (i) determine the ability of potassium-solubilizing purple nonsulfur bacteria (Ksol-PNSB) to colonize in hybrid maize and (ii) measure their capacity to promote plant growth. A randomised complete block design experiment was conducted in undeposited alluvial soil collected from An Phu, An Giang, under nethouse conditions with five treatments and six replications. The treatments were: (i) the control, (ii) Cereibacter sphaeroides M-Sl-09, (iii) Rhodopseudomonas thermotolerans M-So-11, (iv) Rhodospeudomonas palustris M-So-14, and (v) a combination of the three strains. Results revealed the presence of bacteria in soft tissues of the cortex and medulla in the root hair region of hybrid maize plants. Supplying one or three strains of Ksol-PNSB increased crop height (20.7–34.4%), root length (17.0–40.5%), root biomass (20.9–154.0%), and stem-leaf biomass (73.8–173.8%) compared to the control. The current study has successfully revealed the inhabitation locations of the beneficial bacteria within plant tissues, along with the improved growth characteristics of the hybrid maize. The current study is a good reference for studies investigating the works of beneficial microbes in plants. However, further molecular investigations should explore the potassium-solubilizing traits of the bacteria.

Public Health Implications of Antimicrobial-Resistant Bacteria in the U-Tapao Canal, South of Thailand: A Study of Escherichia coli and Associated Gram-Negative Bacteria

Pharanai Sukhumungoon — 2026-01-21

Water-borne diseases are a major global public health concern, leading to significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. In this study, E. coli and the associated culturable bacteria were investigated from 7 water sampling locations along the 26 kilometers of U-Tapao Canal, an important aquatic source in southern Thailand. Five E. coli strains were obtained from 3 water samples (3/21, prevalence of 14%). Two of five were multidrug-resistant (MDR) E. coli. One E. coli strain was resistant to imipenem, suggesting that it was a carbapenem-resistant E. coli. All five E. coli strains exhibited γ-hemolysis on blood agar and produced catalase, suggesting their virulence to some extent. Fifteen diverse bacterial strains other than E. coli were also found and classified into 12 distinct bacterial species using MALDI-TOF MS. The finding of E. coli and other bacterial species in the U-Tapao Canal in this study highlights the microbial contamination inhabiting this canal and emphasizes the potential risk of water-borne diseases among inhabitants residing in the vicinity. This study strengthens the need for systematic microbiological monitoring of water quality, promoting public health and environmental safety.

Influence of Dietary Fermented Mulberry (Morus alba) Leaf Inclusion on Growth Performance and Immune Responses in Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)

Thapanakhajorn Punjam — 2026-01-21

This study investigated the effects of dietary fermented mulberry leaves (FML) on growth performance, carcass traits, muscle composition, and innate immune responses of juvenile Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). The use of functional feed additives is increasingly emphasized in aquaculture to reduce antibiotic dependence, particularly during early life stages when fish are highly susceptible to disease. Juvenile tilapias were fed diets containing 0% (control), 1%, 2%, or 4% FML for 60 days. Dietary supplementation with FML significantly improved weight gain, length gain, average daily gain, feed conversion ratio, and survival (P < 0.05). The 2% FML diet produced the most favorable outcomes in muscle nutritional quality, including elevated crude protein and reduced lipid and fiber contents (P < 0.05). Immune parameters were also enhanced in fish receiving FML. Agglutination titers, lysozyme activity, and phagocytic efficiency increased significantly across FML-treated groups (P < 0.05). Moreover, the 2% inclusion level resulted in higher concentrations of the pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-1, indicating activation of innate immune pathways (P < 0.05). These findings demonstrate that FML, particularly at a 2% dietary inclusion, is an effective and environmentally sustainable feed supplement capable of improving growth performance, muscle composition, and immune competence in juvenile Nile tilapia. The incorporation of FML may therefore contribute to reduced reliance on antibiotics and support more sustainable aquaculture practices.

Sterculia quadrifida R.Br: Utilization, Bioactive Compounds, and the Potential as a New Source of Seed Oil - A Comprehensive Review

Mery Rambu B. Djoru — 2026-01-18

Sterculia quadrifida R.Br., a plant native to East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia, and northern Australia, has gained increasing attention due to the diverse traditional uses of bark, roots, leaves, and seeds. Recent studies have shown that this plant is rich in bioactive compounds, including antioxidants, anticancer, antimicrobial, and antifungal agents present in all parts of the plant. This review aims to discuss the utilization of this plant by local communities and summarize various research findings on its bioactive compounds and their health benefits. Additionally, the review focuses on the potential of the seeds as a valuable new source of plant oil, as studies on Sterculia quadrifida R.Br. seeds have revealed high lipid content, diverse fatty acids including linoleic and palmitic acids, sterculic acid, triterpenoid, and β-sitosterol, which contribute to their antioxidant, anticancer, antimicrobial, and antifungal properties. This review provides opportunities for further research on the extraction of Sterculia quadrifida R.Br. seed oil and its applications in the food, pharmaceutical, and industrial sectors.