Undergraduate Special Problem

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Prevalence of Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura, and Enterobius vermicularis in the hands of preschool children in day care centers in Miagao, Iloilo
Abellon, Rupert L., III (Division of Biological Sciences, Bachelor of Science in Public Health, University of the Philippines Visayas, 2002-03)
The hands of 199 preschool children in Day Care Centers of Miag-ao, Iloilo were swabbed and examined for the presence of parasitic ova, specifically soil-transmitted parasites. Prevalence rates of parasitic ova were determined and tested for significant differences with variables that include age, sex, parent’s educational level, and location of the day care center of the preschoolers. Ascaris had a prevalence rate of 24.12% (48), Enterobius with 1.51% (3) and Trichuris with 1.01% (2). Toxocara canis had a 6.03% prevalence (12) in the hands of preschoolers. Using the Chi-square test to test for differences, it was shown that there were no significant differences in the presence of parasitic ova in the hands among preschoolers with regards to age, sex, and parent’s educational level except for location of the day care center. There was a significant difference in the prevalence rate of parasitic ova in the hands of preschoolers in coastal areas and those in non-coastal areas. Preschoolers in the coastal areas had a higher prevalence rate (29.82%) compared to those in the non-coastal areas (16.47%). With a sample of 121 stools from the same group of preschoolers, the study showed that there was no direct association between the presence of Ascaris ova in the hands and their presence in stools.
Effect of salinity on the embryonic development of Portunus pelagicus and Charybdis feriatus eggs
Alba, Kristine Margaret A. (Division of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines Visayas, 2003-03)
The effect of salinity on the embryonic development of Portunus pelagicus and Charybdis feriatus was studied. The five different salinity levels used were 15 ppt, 25 ppt, 35 ppt, 45 ppt, and control (33-35 ppt) to compare their effect on the embryonic development of both species. One thousand newly spawned crab eggs were incubated in vitro in 4-L Nalgene fiberglass containers with 3-L of water at different salinity levels. Mild aeration that allows movement of eggs within the water column was provided. There were three replicates per treatment. Embryonic development of eggs (30 eggs were taken in every salinity level) was monitored daily up to hatching. The newly hatched larvae were then collected and counted. Results showed that during the incubation period, the most advanced stage of embryonic development for Portunus pelagicus was at 33-35 ppt and for Charybdis feriatus was at 35 ppt. There was normal embryonic development and hatching at 35 ppt, 45 ppt, and control (33-35 ppt) for Portunus pelagicus and at 15 ppt, 25 ppt, 35 ppt, 45 ppt, and control (33-35 ppt) for Charybdis feriatus. Eggs that were incubated at 15 ppt and 25 ppt for Portunus pelagicus died. There was normal embryonic development in both species when incubated at 45 ppt. Hatching rate for Portunus pelagicus at control (33-35 ppt) was 34.1 %, at 35 ppt was 16.1 %, and at 45 ppt was 5.8 %. Hatching rate for Charybdis feriatus at 35 ppt was 52.5 %, at control (33-35 ppt) was 21.2 %, at 45 ppt was 12.8 %, at 25 ppt was 6.7 %, and at 15 ppt was 0.3 %. To summarize, embryo of Charybdis feriatus eggs can withstand a wider range of salinity: from a low salinity of 15 ppt to a high salinity of 45 ppt, that makes them a euryhaline species. On the other hand, Portunus pelagicus cannot support embryonic development at lower salinities of 15 and 25 ppt that makes them a stenohaline species.
Relation of size and sex to the natural diet of the red crab Charybdis feriatus Linnaeus (Brachyura: Portunidae) from Pilar-Capiz Bays, Northern Panay
Alabia, Irene Dolorfino (Division of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines Visayas, 2003-03)
A total of 395 (males= 282; females=113) specimens of the red crab Charybdis feriatus were collected from Pilar-Capiz Bays from January-December 2002 and were used for the present study. Relative fullness index were computed for both sexes of different size classes. Results showed that stomachs of females were slightly fuller than that of males. Similar observation was made between juvenile and adult specimens. A total of 75 (males= 57; females= 18) gut contents were analyzed in detail. Major food items in the diet of the crabs include unidentified matter, unidentified eggs, fish, crab, and shrimp remains. Frequency of occurrence and combined visual estimation of unidentified organic matter were used for the examination. No dietary differences due to ontogenetic change were observed in the species while diet of male crabs were found to be more varied than those of females. However, frequency of occurrence of major food items in the stomachs of both sexes was comparable.
Nutritional status of 0-5 year old children of small scale fisherfolks from Barangays along the coastal areas of Miagao, Iloilo
Ascano, Maria Epifanie; Borromeo, Ma. Benjafe; Luces, Leslie Ann; Napud, Ma. Salve; Sagge, Jasmine; Tarroja, Aireen Joy (Division of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines Visayas, 2003-03)
This special problem sought to determine the nutritional status of 0-5 year old children of subsistence fisherfolks from selected barangays along the coastal areas of Miag-ao, Iloilo. The study incorporated anthropometric, clinical, dietary, and socioeconomic data to detect any nutritional disorder and to ascertain nutriture of 0-5 years old children. There were fifty-six fishermen among the 14 coastal areas which served as basis for determining the number of respondents. Ninety-one children aged 0-5 years old comprised the sample population. This descriptive cross-sectional study employed a probability sampling method named two-stage sampling design. This special study utilized an anthropometric data sheet, clinical assessment sheet, 24-hour food recall sheet, and interview schedule to gather appropriate data. The data collected was then subjected to statistical tools such as means, frequency count/distribution, percentages, ANOVA using the EPI-INFO 6 software and the Fil-Anthrop Software of the FNRI-DOST. Findings revealed that 45.1% of the respondents had an average height for age, 37.4% of the respondents were mildly underweight for age, and 54.9% had an average weight for height. Among the ninety-one respondents, the clinical signs exhibited were lack of luster, thinness, and sparseness; dyspigmentation; pale conjunctiva; thyroid gland enlargement; mottled enamel; dental caries; spongy, bleeding gums; and beading of the rib. Moreover, 82.4% of the respondents were below the Recommended Dietary Allowance. Findings have revealed that there is no association between the nutritional status of respondents (ht. for age, wt. for age, wt. for ht.) and the following variables: (a) Age of 0-5 years old children, (b) Sex of 0-5 years old children, (c) family size, (d) Monthly family income, (e) Highest educational attainment of housewives, (f) Clinical signs, (g) Sanitary practices, (h) Crowding index, (i) Feeding practices of housewives, (j) Presence of toilet facilities, and (k) Source of drinking water.
The relationship between the intensity of common soil-transmitted intestinal helminthiasis and nutritional status among schoolchildren of Miagao-West Central Elementary School (MWCES), Miagao, Iloilo
Alojepan, Jake L.; Lee, Raymond V.; Mediodia, Harold P.; Tansiongco, Venjune P.; Tubola, Keith Anthony V. (Division of Biological Sciences,, 2003-03)
This study aimed to determine the relationship between the intensity of infection of common soil-transmitted intestinal helminths (STH): Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura and Hookworm species (Ancylostoma duodeuale and Necator americamus) and nutritional status among schoolchildren of Miag-ao West Central Elementary School (MWCES). This study also aimed to determine the prevalence of STH infection and nutritional status, either stunted or underweight schoolchildren. There were 285 study participants out of 436 schoolchildren of Miag-ao West Central Elementary School. Stool samples of the study participants were analyzed using Modified Kato-Katz Technique to determine the intensity of infections. The study participants were grouped according to the intensity of infection: negative, light and moderate to heavy. Nutritional status of the study participants was also determined and was classified into stunted, underweight and normal. Height-for-age value was used to determine stunting and weight-for-age value to determine those who are underweight. Frequency count was used for the descriptive analysis of the data gathered. The Chi-square test for association was used in the inferential statistics. The result of the study reveals that 51.2 % of the respondents were infected with Ascaris lumbricoides, 36.5 % with Trichuris trichiura and 4.9 % with hookworm. The findings also show that 16 8 % of the respondents were stunted and 27.4 % were underweight. Finally, study reveals that there is no significant relationship between the nutritional status and the intensity of infection of common soil- transmitted intestinal helminths among the schoolchildren of Miag-ao West Central Elementary School (p= 0 706)
A preliminary investigation on the physico-chemical parameters of the habitat and associated flora of Rafflesia sp. along the western side of Sibalom Natural Park
Alacapa, Lilluck F. (Division of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines Visayas, 2003-04)
Rafflesia, bearing the largest flowers in the world, was found to exist in Sibalom Natural Park. In view of efforts to conserve the Rafflesia site, this study entitled, “A preliminary investigation on the physico-chemical parameters of the habitat and associated flora of Rafflesia sp. along the western side of Sibalom Natural Park”, aims to come up with information as to what conditions do these flowers grow and their associated flora. This study hopes to help strengthen biodiversity conservation efforts of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. The study had ten sampling sites, five of which with the existence of Rafflesia sp. and five of which without Rafflesia sp.. In each of these areas the data gathered were girth of trees, saplings and seedlings, list and number of existing flora within the area, soil pH, soil texture, soil and air temperature, and relative humidity. The study found that the Rafflesia sp. in the Sibalom Natural Park grows at high relative humidity, relatively cool air and soil temperature, in soil with high amounts of clay and nearly neutral pH. The Rafflesia sp., aside from its host vine, exists with the plant locally known as ban-ban. No species of plant was found to dominate the areas where Rafflesia sp. exists.
Ingestion rate of Charybdis feriatus zoea on Brachionus and Artemia nauplii
Abarca, Jinky G. (Division of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines Visayas, 2003-04)
A study was conducted to determine if presence of Brachionus will affect ingestion of Charybdis feriatus larvae on the Artemia and to find out the rate of ingestion with increasing density of Artemia. The experiment was conducted using 10-ml capacity vials filled with 6 ml of seawater (26-30 ppt). Increasing densities of Artemia were prepared (0.5, 2.5, 5.0, 10.0, and 20 ind/ml). In one set-up, Brachionus (15 ind/ml) was added. In another set, Brachionus was absent. Another set-up for Artemia with and without Brachionus was prepared but without Charybdis feriatus larvae which served as the control. There were five replicates per treatment. The amount of food prey (Brachionus and Artemia) ingested is determined after 24 hours of feeding on the first day of every zoeal stage (Zl, Z2, Z3, Z4, and Z5). The number of prey ingested by the crab larvae was then calculated. The prey organisms left in containers were then examined under the microscope for missing body parts. The results showed a trend of increasing ingestion rate with increasing Artemia density. This is observed both in treatments with and without Brachionus. The ingestion rate of C. feriatus larvae on the rotifer Brachionus plicatilis showed no trend. However, in zoea 1, there was a trend of increasing ingestion on Brachionus as the feeding density increases. And in zoea 5, it was seen that there is decreasing ingestion on Brachionus as the feeding density increases. There is a trend of increasing ingestion rate on Artemia nauplii as the Charybdis feriatus larvae grow from zoea 1 to zoea 5. There is also a trend of increasing number of observed Artemia with missing body parts as the Charybdis feriatus larvae grow from zoea 1 to number of zoea 5. In addition, there is an increasing number of observed Artemia naupliii with body parts partially ingested as feeding density increases. The presence or absence of Brachionus shows no significant effect on the ingestion on Artemia at low feeding densities (0.5, 2.5, 5 and 10 ind/ml) in all zoeal stages. However, at high feeding densities (20 ind/ml) the ingestion on Artemia is significantly different as seen is zoeal stage 1, 3 and 4.
Comparison of the length-weight relationship between starved and fed Scylla tranquebarica crablets
Arroyo. Ritchel B. (Division of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines Visayas, 2003-04)
This study aimed to determine the length-weight as well as the width-weight relationships of the Scylla tranquebarica crablets when starved and fed during the intermolt and premolt stages. Molt stages were identified and then the crablets were subjected to feeding or starvation for 36 days. Regression analysis showed the length-weight relationship of the Scylla tranquebarica crablets, including carapace length, carapace width, and body weight when fed and starved. Regression lines for each category differed from one another. Results showed that the fed crablets in intermolt and premolt stages showed greater body weight gain per unit carapace length and carapace width. The intermolt fed gave the highest weight gain per unit length and unit width among the treatments. Equations for interconversions of length and weight and for length and width are reported for the premolt and intermolt stages when fed and starved.
Molluscicidal activity of tabaco dust against the brackishwater pond snail Telescopium telescopium (Gastropoda: Potamididae)
Azucena, Paulene C. (Division of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines Visayas, 2003-04)
Telescopium telescopium, a molluscan potamidid snail thrives in the muddy substrates of brackishwater ponds in the Philippines. It occurs in considerable numbers but uncontrollable increases in its population poses serious threats to pond production. Tobacco dust is considered as a potential biomolluscicide that is able to control pond snail infestation. A short-term bioassay was conducted to know the effectiveness of tobacco dust as a molluscicide against T. telescopium by determining its median lethal concentration (LC50) after a period of 96 hours. Twenty-five telescope snails were subjected to varying concentrations of tobacco dust, from 0 to 1.0 kg/L at 0.2-kg increments. Three replicates were done for every treatment. Counting of dead snails was done after 48 and 96 hours of exposure. Snails exposed to varying concentrations of tobacco dust exhibited several defense mechanisms such as avoiding the toxic solution by crawling out of the area, closing their operculum and retracting their bodies toward their shell. Highest snail mortality was observed at the 1.0-kg/L treatment. After the 96-hr. exposure time, the concentration of tobacco dust that proves to be lethal to 50% of the snails was computed to be 0.5849 kg/L. Indeed, tobacco dust is an effective molluscicide against brackishwater pond snails, particularly T. telescopium.
Comparison of the growth of green algae, Nephroselmis sp. at different media
Agana, Julie Ann E. (Division of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines Visayas, 2004-03)
Green algae play a significant role in the maintenance of the hatchery of economically important crustaceans, where a continuous supply of algae is needed to feed the larvae. Moreover, microalgae have the potential to be used to produce chemically complex molecules, which are difficult to synthesize. Thus, the present study was conducted to compare the growth of the green algae, Nephroselmis sp., using three different media. Specifically, the study aims (1) to compare the effect of different media on the growth of Nephroselmis sp. and (2) to determine which medium is the most suitable for growth of Nephroselmis sp. The result of the study showed that there was no significant difference in the growth of the green algae Nephroselmis sp. at three different media. The results showed that quantities of chemical composition of the different media are already sufficient for the growth of Nephroselmis sp.
Comparative growth rates and gross morphology of hybrid catfish Clarias gariepinus (female) x Clarias macrocephalus (male)
Agase, Mark Christian A. (Division of Biological Sciences, Bachelor of Science in Biology, University of the Philippines Visayas, 2004-03)
Catfishes are among the groups that has been considered economically important fishes in the Philippines and in other countries. The freshwater catfish Clarias macrocephalus is native to the Philippines but it is becoming scarce in many natural habitats. It is a favorite food dish due to its tender and delicious meet. Aquaculturists these days focus more their attention to the culture of exotic species like Clarias gariepinus and Clarias batrachus that in turn resulted to the near extinction of the native species. There is therefore a need to undertake a breeding program involving this native catfish and other exotic species.A 12-week study was conducted to compare the growth rates of the hybrid catfish C. macrocephalus (♂) X C. gariepinus (♀) in natural ponds and laboratory rearing conditions. In addition, the length-weight relationship was also determined. Gross morphology was also noted in the experiment.Results showed that the trend for SGR of the hybrid in natural pond and laboratory rearing conditions from weeks 2 to 12 is decreasing. Continued feeding of the hybrids on artificial diets results in poor fish growth. T-test revealed that there is a significant difference on the SGR for both the length and weight with hybrids in natural pond rearing conditions being consistently higher than the laboratory set-up.From the linear regression equation, there was no homogeneity of regression, coefficients, or slopes in the mean body lengths (MBL) and mean body weights (MBW) of me hybrids in the natural pond and laboratory rearing condition. It simply means that there is a significant difference on the growth rates of the hybrid as to the type of environment they are reared. The product-moment correlation showed that there is a linear relationship between the length and the weight of the hybrid fish, 7.9305378 X 104 being the constant. Gross morphology of the hybrids includes the appearance of a trident-shaped occipital process, which was not pointed and narrow as in the case of the parent C. gariepinus. A turtle shell-like design arranged bilaterally characterizes the dorsal side of the head. A modification of the dorsal fin was also noted as to the presence of the adipose fin at the posterior end of the dorsal fin, which was about 3-5 mm in length.
Histopathology of the gill, abdomen, and lymphoid organ of giant black tiger shrimp (Penaeus monodon) infected with white spot syndrome virus (WSSV)
Apines, John S. (Division of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines Visayas, 2004-03)
Histological changes in giant black tiger shrimp, Penaeus monodon, were investigated at various time intervals after injection with white spot syndrome virus (WSSV). After infection with the virus, mortalities were observed. Gills, abdomen, and lymphoid organ (LO) were then dissected and subjected to histological examination. The study revealed that the lymphoid organ was the most severely damaged compared to the gills and abdomen. The abdomen, although low in prevalence, was one of the target organs of the virus. Light microscopy showed the aggregation of hemocytes in the abdominal muscles of the shrimp. The infected shrimp were found to have a high prevalence of apoptotic cells. The results of this study supported the earlier findings that cell death in viral infection may have resulted mainly from apoptosis and that increasing numbers of apoptotic cells probably caused the death in WSSV-infected shrimp. Moribund shrimp had extensive deterioration of vital tissues such as the gills and lymphoid organs, thus affecting vital processes in the shrimp body. Gross signs of lethargy and weakness were observed in the moribund shrimps. Hemocyte aggregation, as well as formation of spheroids, were observed in the hemal sinuses of the LO, the abdominal region and the gills. The results are discussed in relation to the hypotheses of acquired tolerance and quasi-immune response in shrimp.
Banate Bay mangrove reforestation program: Prospective area for community-based property rights (CBPRs)
Ungkakay, Farisal B. (Institute of Fisheries Policy and Development Studies, College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences, University of the Philippines in the Visayas, 2004-03)
The study focuses on the Mangrove Reforestation Program of the Banate Bay Resource Management Council, Inc. (BBRMCI), particularly in the 5 coastal barangays bordering Banate Bay, Iloilo, namely: Tiwi, Palaciauan, Pantalan, Belen and Talokgangan. It describes the processes, issues and prospects encountered by BBRMCI in the implementation of the mangrove reforestation project. Focus group discussion with key informants at the community, as well as interview of BBRMCI staff were done to capture the initiatives and mechanisms involved in the program, organizational arrangements in these areas and the issues the BBRMCI faces in the program implementation. It further explores the feasibility of transferring the management of such initiative to the local communities or communal groups in the area. A set of criteria was used to assess the capacity of existing organizations to assume management responsibilities for the mangrove resources. These are: presence of clearly defined boundaries for the resources, presence of a small user's group with mutual obligations and rules against defectors, an overlap between the location of the common property and organization or community member's residence, degree of dependence of the user group on the resource and support from local decision-makers. Although results show that most of the abovementioned criteria are present in the Barangay Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management Councils (BFARMCs), conditions at the community level still, are not conducive for the transfer of management responsibilities to BFARMCs primarily because BFARMCs are considered as government-arms and not independent groups. Second, there is a need to define the level of importance of each of the 5 criteria to achieve the desired success of CBPRs. Other equally important features are therefore recommended, in addition to the criteria used, to increase the chances of success of the Mangrove Reforestation Program of BBRMCI. These are: (1) defining the user group's capacity; (2) system of sanctions and rewards within and outside a user group; and (3) presence of appropriate legal institutions that will allow exclusive use rights over the resources to qualified user groups.
Survival and metamorphosis of the mud crab Scylla tranquebarica larvae fed with Brachionus plicatilis and Artemia nauplii
Ballescas, Ella Anne M. (Division of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines Visayas, 2004-03)
Despite the growing corpus of research on cultural nationalism, the state's role in producing cultural nationalism in a post-colonial and non-western setting and the phenomena from a bottom-up perspective continues to be little explored. This study examines the conditions under which national political leaders pursued policies to protect the cultural heritage of the country's indigenous cultural communities for the aims of political nationalism. From a top- down perspective, the study looks at the context, intent, content, state's implementation and caveats of the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act of 1997. While from the bottom-up perspective, the study looks at how the Bantoanon indigenous community mobilizes and organizes to navigate through state bureaucracy and ‘reappropriate’ the state's nationalism to meet their cultural goals. To examine the phenomena, the study on the textual analysis of existing written primary and secondary sources supplemented with oral interviews of key informants and a review of available literature. It finds that at the national level, political motives partly animated the support of political leaders for indigenous cultural heritage protection policies; that the state used heritage protection policies to pursue its political purposes; and that the support for political leaders for indigenous cultural heritage protection policies was premised on the condition that it did not interfere with the state's interests and diminish the state's rights. While at the Bantoanon indigenous cultural communities level, it finds that despite the caveats embedded in the country's heritage protection policies, the indigenous cultural community could mobilize and assert its rights, thus enabling it to ‘reappropriate’ the state's political institutions to meet its own cultural objectives. This thesis, therefore, argues that the relationship between the two parties under IPRA is mutually beneficial, with both the state and indigenous cultural communities finding some utility in the law.
Prevalence of substance use among college students of state colleges in Iloilo
Agreda, Joji Marie Gela; Corio, Razel Joy Luceno; Hervas, Jeneline Espanol; Icabandi, Donna Joy Tabor; Melarin, Dianne Vallecera; Mosura, Joenalie Montano; Suspeñe, Rhoda Belandres; Vallejo, Arleen Joy Calanao (Division of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines Visayas, 2004-04)
This study aimed to describe the prevalence, nature, and extent of substance use of college students enrolled in the main campuses of state colleges in Iloilo. There were 402 respondents coming from the main campuses of Iloilo State College of Fisheries (ISCOF), Northern Iloilo Polytechnic State College (NIPSC), Western Visayas College of Science and Technology (WVCST) and the lone campus of New Lucena Polytechnic College (NLPC). Data was collected through a questionnaire which was modified from the model core questionnaire developed by the World Health Organization (WHO). Results showed that 36.1% of the respondents had tried smoking. Their mean age of smoking initiation was 17 years with 13.5% having first tried smoking before 15 years of age. Their top three reasons for smoking are as follows: curiosity (44.1%), for fun (25.5%) and peer pressure (17.2%). Of the respondents who smoked within 30 days prior to the survey, 14.7% consumed more than 5 cigarettes per day. The results also showed that 33.8% of the respondents who have tried smoking usually smoke during parties while their usual place to smoke is either in their houses, dormitories or boarding houses (40.7%). There was a significant relationship between the smoking status of the respondents who have tried smoking and the following: gender (p < 0.0001), age (p = 0.0004) and year level (p < 0.01). On the other hand, smoking status of the respondents who have tried smoking has no significant relationship with the following: annual family income (p = 0.91). living arrangement (p = 0.63) and membership in fraternities/sororities (p = 0.17). Alcoholic use had a higher prevalence (65.4%) than cigarette smoking (36.1%). The mean age of those respondents who have tried drinking was also 17 years with 13.7% having tried drinking at an age below 15 years. Their top three reasons for drinking are: for fun (34.6%), curiosity (29.3%) and because family members drink (12.9%). Seventy percent of the respondents who have tried drinking drank 30 days prior to the survey with 10.9% consuming more than 5 bottles and another 10.9% consuming more than 5 glasses of alcoholic beverages. Of those who have been binge drinking 30 davs prior to the survey, 18.9% have been binge drinking 3 to 5 times. The usual occasion for the respondents to drink is during parties (72.9%) and the usual place for them to drink was either in their houses, dormitories or boarding houses (60.8%). The beverage of choice is beer (59.7%). The drinking status of those who have tried drinking had a significant relationship with the following: gender (p < 0.0001), year level (p = 0.005) and membership to fraternities/sororities (p = 0.04). Meanwhile, drinking status had no significant relationship with age (p = 0.06), annual family income (p = 0.85) and their living arrangements (p = 0.51). Shabu use had a prevalence of 2.7% among the respondents. The mean age of shabu use was also 17 years with 18.2% first trying it at 15 years of age. Their reasons for having tried shabu are: peer pressure (45.5%), curiosity (18.2%) and for fun (18.2%). Within 30 days prior to the survey. 45.5% of those who have tried using shabu have used shabu and 20.0% have used shabu in 20 or more days. They usually use shabu during parties (54.5%) and usually have tried using shabu either in their houses, dormitories and boarding houses (54.6%). Data shows that shabu use had a significant relationship with the following: gender (p = 0.0007). year level (p = 0.003) and fraternity/sorority membership (p = 0.05). It has no significant relationship with age (p = 0.09). annual family income (p = 0.92) and their living arrangements (p = 0.47). Results also showed that 5 % of the respondents have tried smoking marijuana and 4.2% have tried opiate type drugs. The mean age for having tried drugs other than shabu was also 17 years with 26.3 % having tried them at an age below 15. Thirty-one percent of those who have tried other drugs than shabu have tried within 30 days prior to the survey.
Mangrove community structure survey in Iloilo River
Bayate, Bryna Kimberly L. (Division of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines Visayas, 2004-04)
Mangroves are highly productive forests growing along tropical tidal mudflats and shallow water coastal areas where water is generally brackish. The structure of the mangrove stand in the Iloilo River was studied using the transect line plot method with 55 plots established in the 3 out of 4 stations of the river. Community Structure is described in terms of the following parameters: basal area, stems per hectare, relative density, relative frequency, relative dominance and importance value of the species and the Shannon Index of Diversity. Variations in these parameters are correlated with certain physico-chemical factors- soil and water temperature, soil and water pH, and water salinity.Nineteen(19) true mangrove species were found in the area belonging to 10 families. These include Mysinaceae family represented by Aegiceras corniculatum ; Avicenniaceae family represented by Avicennia alba, Avicennia marina, Avicennia officinalis and Avicennia rumphiana; Euphorbiaceae family represented by Excoecaria agallocha; Sterculiaceae family represented by Heritiera littoralis; Combretaceae family represented by Lumnitzera racemosa; Palmae family represented by Nypa fruticans; Rhizophoraceae family represented by Bruguiera cylindrica Rhizophora apiculata, Rhizophora mucronata, and Rhizophora stylosa; Sonneratiaceae family represented by Sonneratia alba, Sonneratia caseolaris, and Sonneratia ovata.Ruciaceae family represented by Scyphiphora hydrophyllacea and Meliaceae family represented by Xylocarpus granatum, and Xylocarpus meckongensis. Avicennia officinalis has the highest total basal area of 650.69m2/ha, Avicennia alba, Aegiceras corniculatum, Avicennia marina, Avicennia officinalis, Avicennia rumphiana, Exoecaria agallocha, Lumnitzera racemosa, Rhizophora apiculata, Rhizophora mucronata, Rhizophora stylosa, Sonneratia alba and Xylocarpus moluccensis have equal relative frequency of 0.074. Avicennia marina obtained the highest stems per hectare with a value of 38933.33, relative density of 0.405 relative dominance of 0.332 and importance value of 0.913. The index of diversity is 1.010, indicating that the area is diverse.
Gross alpha and gross beta radioactivity and heavy metal concentration profiles of well water of the Calahunan dump site, Mandurriao, Iloilo City
Amarante, Hena Charma; Basquez, Mark Anthony; Brunio, Christian Allan; Dable, Nesel; De la Pena, Pamela-Di; Genterola, Janis; Oredina, Josette Marie; Padayhag, Dave (Division of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines Visayas, 2005-03)
The study aimed to establish presence of radioactivity and concentration of heavy metals specifically lead and chromium in drinking water from wells within one-kilometer radius from the approximated center of the Calahunan dump site. Results showed that four out of twelve wells have positive results fro gross alpha activity and gross beta activity: wells 2A, 2C, 3A, and 3D. Well 2A, 2C and 3D registered alpha activities of 0.54, 0.033 and 0.369 Bq/L respectively while Well 3A registered beta activity of 1.0 Bq/L. Wells 2A and 3D exceeded the radiological limits set by WHO and PNSDW of 0.1 Bq/L for alpha activity and 1.0 Bq/L for beta activity. These wells that are found adjacent to the perimeter fence of the dump site registered alpha activity (wells 2A, 2C and 3D) and beta activity (well 3A). Radiological activities in all other wells sampled registered less than lower limit of detection. For gamma activity, all wells recorded 137- Cs and 134-Cs activity less than the lower limit of detection. For chromium and lead concentration using FAAS, only well 3C has a chromium concentration of 0.0952 ppm and this exceeded the PNSDW standard for chromium in drinking water (0.05 ppm) FAAS has not recorded any value for lead. For chemical constituent analysis using XRF, two wells in zone 1 (LA and IC), have recorded lead concentration of 0.9 and 0.136 ppm, respectively. In zone two, only well 2D registered a lead concentration of 0.248 ppm. In zone 3, well 3C registered a lead concentration of 0.397 ppm. For chromium concentration, only well 2A in zone 2 has a chromium concentration of 1.79 ppm. The spot interview and ocular inspection found out that the following garbage are disposed of indiscriminately tn the dump site: (1) Television picture tubes, (2) Dysfunctional Computer Monitors, (3) Used syringes and needles, (4) Hospital wastes, (5) Automobile batteries and dry cells, (6) scrap iron, tin cans, paint cans, paint cans, etc., (7) polyethylene bottle, glass bottles, and containers of similar types, and (8) other organic and inorganic wastes. Wells whose values for gross alpha, lead, and chromium concentration exceeded the standard are unsuitable for dinking and other domestic uses. The observation that wells (2A and 3D) near the Calahunan dump site registered higher-than-standard alpha activity may be a good basis to conduct further research particularly on the effect of leachate from dump site.
Density of mangrove trees in selected municipalities in the Province of Antique, Panay Island, Philippines
Arelis, Ian Jerwin C. (Division of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines Visayas, 2006-03)
Mangroves line one quarter of the world’s tropical coastlines, and approximately 117 countries and territories have mangrove resources within their borders. Although over recent years mangrove deforestation has occurred at a phenomenal rate worldwide, constant assessment in the Philippines has been made to monitor its current status. To characterize the density of mangrove trees better in Panay Island, surveys were undertaken within the coastal and riverine estuaries in the 11 municipalities of the province of Antique. Detailed records were taken by transect and ocular surveys along 40 barangays with 75 transects and 223 plots established. The mangroves of Antique were composed of 31 species of true mangroves belonging to 14 families and a total of 16 generas. Considerable values in terms of relative density and stems per hectare were found with Nypa fruticans as the highest, with a relative density of 70.372% trees per hectare and an average stem density of 4,457.249 stems/ha. Other significant species included Sonneratia alba (4.534%; 625 stems/ha), Avicennia marina (4.524%; 1,525 stems/ha), and Rhizophora apiculata (4.232%; 50 stems/ha). Close examination of the data suggested the variability of distribution patterns and density to be attributable to the differing responses of individual species to the environmental factors and other human activities. It was also concluded that habitat classification and topography could directly affect mangrove distribution and also capable of altering basic zonation patterns.
Intestinal parasitic infections in children living in selected barangays with urban slums along Iloilo River
Aguro, Eric D.; Banaag, Arlene D.; Jacobe, Venus N.; Ordaniel, Lilac Mared A.; Taleon, Kathleen Joy B.; Yandra, Marnelle Gay A. (Division of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines Visayas, 2006-03)
This cross-sectional study was performed to determine the intestinal parasitic infection in children age 0-13 years old in three selected barangays with urban slums located alongside Iloilo River. A total of 127 stool samples from 65 males and 62 females were examined by utilizing formalin-ether concentration technique (FECT) and direct wet mount thereafter using Lugol's solution. It was found out that 59.8% of the children examined were positive for one or more intestinal parasites. The most frequent soil-transmitted helminth observed was Ascaris lumbricoides (48.0%) followed by Trichuris trichiura (34.6%). Pathogenic protozoans determined were Entamoeba histolytica (9.4%) and Giardia lamblia (0.8%). Other nonpathogenic species identified were Entamoeba coli (15.7%), Blastocystis hominis (3.1%) and lodamoeba butschlii (0.8%). Parasitic infection with single species had the highest frequency of 31.5% compared to multiple infection (28.3%). The relatively high prevalence of these infections among children living three selected barangays with urban slums alongside Iloilo River was found to be independent of factors the respondents’ sex (p=0.106), age group (p=1.691), and consistency of stool sample (p=1.835). Moreover, the degree of infection in terms of sex (p=3.174), age (p=9.136), and consistency of stool samples (p=2.798) were not statistically different from each other. The high prevalence rate of pathogenic intestinal parasitic infection may have also been influenced by factors other than the ones considered, such as environmental and socio-demographic factors. The study highly suggests mass treatment and preventive measures such as health education of the community
Floristic composition and diversity of mangroves in selected sites in the province of Antique, Panay Island, Philippines.
Balinas, Lucelle V. (Division of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines Visayas, 2006-03)
Mangroves in the Philippines are in constant danger due to innumerable disturbances in the environment. The study endeavored to assess the floristic composition and diversity of the mangroves in the province of Antique through transect and ocular survey in the randomly selected sites throughout the province. Diversity in the region is high with the presence of 3 1 true mangrove species represented by 16 families and 14 genera. The species include Acanthus ebracteatus, A. ilicifolius, and A. volubilis from Family Acanthaceae, Avicennia alba, A. marina. A. officinalis, and A. rhumphiana from Family Avicenniaceae, Camptostemon philippinensis from Family Bombaceae, Lumnitzera littorea and Lumnitzera racemosa from Family Combretaceae, Excoecaria agallocha from Family Euphorbiaceae, Pemphis acidula from Family Lythraceae, Xylocarpus granatum and Xylocarpus moluccensis from Family Meliaceae, Aegiceras corniculatum and Aegiceras floridum from Family Myrsinaceae, Osbornia octodonta of Family Myrtaceae, Nypa fruticans of Family Palmae, Bruguieria cvlindrica. B. gymnorrhiza, and B. sexangula, Ceriops decandra, C. tagal, Rhizophora apiculata. R. mucronata and R. stylosa from Family Rhizophoraceae, Scyphiphora hydrophvllaceae from Family Rubiaceae, Sonneratia alba, S. caseolaris and S. ovata from Family Sonneratiaceae, and Heritiera littoralis from Family Sterculiaceae . The Shannon Index of Diversity used to determine the measure of diversity in the area is correlated with Pielou's Equitability Index for Evenness. The measures of indices showed that diversity and evenness of the mangal area in the province are directly related, with values of 0.73232 and 0.51163, respectively. Caluya showed the highest diversity index of 1.0132, which consisted of 28 species from 13 families and 15 genera, while Bugasong has a relatively low diversity of 0.0486, denoted by 6 species from 4 families and 4 genera. In general, the high variations in the geomorphology of coastal areas in Antique provided a wide range of substrata for colonization of mangroves that contributed to the high species diversity.