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Open Access Article
1 - Assessing Populations Diversity of Small Panel Oak (Quercus brantii) in Western Forests of Iran: a Major Effort in Reforestation Programs
Adele Rafezi Mohammad Reza Azimi Mehrshad Zeinalabedini Mohammad Reza ghaffariIssue 1 , Vol. 15 , Winter 2024Persian oak (Quercus brantii) is a critical, economic, and environmental species of Zagros forests in Iran. The effects of climate change and drought have caused a decline in Persian oak populations, leading to a severe reduction in genetic resources for future conserva MorePersian oak (Quercus brantii) is a critical, economic, and environmental species of Zagros forests in Iran. The effects of climate change and drought have caused a decline in Persian oak populations, leading to a severe reduction in genetic resources for future conservation programs. This study aims to evaluate the diversity and population structure of Persian oak in the western forests of Iran using morphological features. A total of 187 samples were collected from 15 locations in the Ilam province. Twenty phenotypic traits related to leaf, seed, and trunk characteristics were evaluated. Several multivariate statistical analyses were performed. The results revealed significant morphological diversity among the Persian oak ecotypes. Correlation analyses revealed a significant positive correlation between leaf length attribute and distance from leaf base to maximum leaf width (0.55) and maximum width of the leaflet (0.64) traits. The leaf width at 50% attribute with the maximum width of the leaflet and distance from leaf base to maximum leaf width have a positive (0.8 and 0.51 respectively) and significant correlation (p≤0.05). According to principal component analysis, the components of leaf and seed traits have the most impact on morphological variance. Hierarchical cluster analysis divided the locations into two groups, with some oak locations distributed in two clusters, indicating higher diversity of this species in different locations. Further research is needed to determine the optimal ecotype; however, the oaks in Ghallaje region have characteristics that can increase their ability to resist water scarcity, making them potentially appropriate for reforestation in Ilam province. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
2 - The Effect of Roselle Calyx Extract and Nano-ZnO Biofilm on Walnut's Chemical and Sensory Properties
Neda Sadat Aghayan Maede Sadat Abbasi Anna Etemadi Razlighi Atousa Kokabian Neda Fallah Grace MorineIssue 1 , Vol. 15 , Winter 2024Bionanocomposite active films made from tapioca starch and bovine gelatin, with the addition of roselle calyx extract (RCE) and zinc oxide nanorod (ZnO-N), were created as packaging material to protect walnuts against mold, yeast contamination, and lipid oxidation. Thre MoreBionanocomposite active films made from tapioca starch and bovine gelatin, with the addition of roselle calyx extract (RCE) and zinc oxide nanorod (ZnO-N), were created as packaging material to protect walnuts against mold, yeast contamination, and lipid oxidation. Three types of packaging were produced: tapioca starch and bovine gelatin (control sample), tapioca starch, bovine gelatin, and RCE, and tapioca starch, bovine gelatin, ZnO-N, and RCE. Approximately 30 grams of walnuts were packed using each type of packaging and evaluated for acidity value, mold and yeast count, peroxide value, and sensory tests. After 90 days, the mold and yeast count of walnuts packed with RCE/ZnO-N and RCE was 4.49 and 4.65 log cfu/g respectively, compared to 4.95 log cfu/g in the control sample. At the end of the conservation period, the aroma score was 3.59 for walnuts packed with RCE/ZnO-N, compared to 2.5 for those packed with tapioca starch and bovine gelatin. The acidity value indicated that walnuts packed with RCE and RCE/ZnO-N had a positive effect on acidity, with the lowest value found in walnuts packed with RCE/ZnO-N. The study showed that bionanocomposite packaging films containing RCE and ZnO-N are effective in protecting walnuts against fungal contamination and oxidation. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
3 - Impact of Salinity on Growth Rate, Physiology, Elemental Composition, and NHX1 Gene Expression of Almond (Prunus dulcis) Cultivars
Ghader Amani Mansoore Shamili Ali Imani Amir Mousavi Hamed RezaiIssue 1 , Vol. 15 , Winter 2024In almonds (Prunus dulcis), selecting salt-tolerant rootstocks and genotypes is an appropriate breeding strategy. In the present research, we grafted two commercial almond cultivars (‘Sahand’ and ‘TS3’) on the ‘GF677’ rootstock. Then, MoreIn almonds (Prunus dulcis), selecting salt-tolerant rootstocks and genotypes is an appropriate breeding strategy. In the present research, we grafted two commercial almond cultivars (‘Sahand’ and ‘TS3’) on the ‘GF677’ rootstock. Then, we monitored the impact of salinity (0.5, 6.5, and 8.5 dS m-1) on the morphological, physiological, and molecular characteristics of the Sahand and TS3 cultivars. The photosynthetic rate, chlorophyll (a, b and total) content, and carotenoid content decreased with increasing salinity levels in both cultivars, with the least decrease observed in TS3. Under a salinity level of 8.5 dS/m, Sahand exhibited the lowest growth (8.9 cm), leaf area (5412.5 mm2), Chla, Chlb, Chltotal and carotenoid contents (0.58, 0.15, 0.74 and 0.31 mg g-1FW, respectively). Additionally, Sahand had a Fm/Fv (0.75), N content (1.33%) and Ca, B, Mg, S, Fe and Zn values of 1654.55, 1.64, 395.28, 168.6, 10.35 and 3.05 mg L-1, respectively. Furthermore, Sahand exhibited the highest MDA level (25.17 nmol g-1FW), TFC (2.95 mg GA g−1FW), Na content (649.84 mg L-1) and Cl content (3.52%). the lowest TFC (1.75 mg GA g−1FW) and the highest NHX1 expression, photosynthesis rate (5.65 μmol m-2 s-1), gs (0.1 mol m-1 s-1) transpiration rate (6.08 mmol m-1 s-1), Ca, S and B content (1903.63, 196.9 and 2.09 mg L-1, respectively) were belonged to TS3 under 0.5 dS/m salinity. Higher levels of Mg and Fe in the TS3 cultivar resulted in the stablization of photosynthetic pigments. Compared to Sahand, TS3 had a higher nitrogen content, and its greater NHX1 expression was a molecular confirmation of its salt tolerance. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
4 - Investigating the Correlation between Phosphorus and Zinc Levels with Leaf Chemistry and Pecan Nut Kernel Weight
Hasan Kadhim Nimr Ahmad Ismael Saber Ammar Daham Hind Ali Nasser Thair L. Mizal Kadhim Fadhil Kadhim Hayder TariqIssue 1 , Vol. 15 , Winter 2024The pecan tree holds significant economic value due to its versatile cultivation and utilization. To expand its reach in global markets, pecan nut breeding aims to enhance both the quantity and quality of the product through meticulous planning. In this context, phospho MoreThe pecan tree holds significant economic value due to its versatile cultivation and utilization. To expand its reach in global markets, pecan nut breeding aims to enhance both the quantity and quality of the product through meticulous planning. In this context, phosphorus and zinc are crucial nutrients for pecan nuts, playing a notable role in their nutritional profile. An experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of different levels of phosphorus and zinc on the nutrient content and yield of pecan trees. The experiment was designed in a factorial form with three levels of phosphorus (0, 250, and 500 kg P2O5 ha-1) and three levels of zinc (0, 25, and 50 kg Zn ha-1) in four replications. The results of the experiment showed that increasing the consumption of phosphorus had a significant effect on the concentration of phosphorus and iron in the leaves. However, a higher level of phosphorus application reduced the concentration of copper in the leaves. Similarly, the application of zinc increased the concentration of zinc (from 138.54 to 166.25 mg kg-1) in the leaves but decreased the concentration of phosphorus (from 0.15% to 0.13%). Interestingly, the application of 250 kg ha-1 of phosphorus led to a significant increase in the dry weight of the kernel, while higher levels of phosphorus had the opposite effect. These findings suggest that careful management of phosphorus and zinc levels in pecan orchards can have a significant impact on both nutrient content and yield. This research provides valuable insights for pecan breeders and growers seeking to optimize their practices and improve the quality of their crops. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
5 - Enhancing Growth and Morpho-physiological Traits of Tissue-cultured Explants of Persian Walnut through Manipulation of In vitro Lighting Spectra
Seyyed Arash Saeedi Kourosh Vahdati Sasan Aliniaeifard Saadat Sarikhani Shirin Dianati Maryam Davarzani Safieh FakhariIssue 1 , Vol. 15 , Winter 2024There are numerous challenges associated with the large-scale production of walnut In vitro-plantlets. It is imperative to develop new environmental control systems for its In vitro propagation. Additionally, there is a lack of knowledge regarding the impacts of lightin MoreThere are numerous challenges associated with the large-scale production of walnut In vitro-plantlets. It is imperative to develop new environmental control systems for its In vitro propagation. Additionally, there is a lack of knowledge regarding the impacts of lighting systems on the morpho-physiological traits and biomass accumulation in walnut tissue-cultured explants. In this study, walnut nodal shoots were subjected to eight different light spectra, including white, blue, red, green, far-red, blue-red combination, red-far-red combination, and a fluorescent lamp serving as a control, over a period of 28 days. The results indicated that combined spectra treatments, such as blue-red and red-far-red, led to improved biomass accumulation (total fresh and dry weight) compared to other monochromatic light spectral treatments. Furthermore, Light-emitting diode (LED) treatments had a discernible impact on the morpho-physiological traits of walnut In vitro-explants. Specifically, white light spectra enhanced Specific leaf area (SLA), while the green light spectra increased leaf water content (LWC) when compared to other light treatments. Additionally, the application of far-red light elevated leaf mass area (LMA) and water content per unit leaf area (LWCA). The findings of this study demonstrate that the quality, morphological, and growth characteristics of In vitro explants of walnut can be enhanced by utilizing specific light spectra. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
6 - Impact of Storage Duration on Kernel Quality of Offspring of ‘Mamaei’ and ‘Marcona’ Almond Hybrids
Mahrokh Zahedi Mousa Rasouli Ali Imani Orang Khademi Sepideh Kalateh JariIssue 1 , Vol. 15 , Winter 2024The influence of storing almond kernel genotypes derived from reciprocal crosses of ‘Mamaei’ and ‘Marcona’ cultivars (referred to as ‘G1’, ‘G2’, ‘G3’, ‘G4’, ‘G5’ and ‘G6’) on MoreThe influence of storing almond kernel genotypes derived from reciprocal crosses of ‘Mamaei’ and ‘Marcona’ cultivars (referred to as ‘G1’, ‘G2’, ‘G3’, ‘G4’, ‘G5’ and ‘G6’) on diverse quality parameters, encompassing moisture, ash, protein, oil, carbohydrates, fiber, and total vitamin E was investigated. The kernels were stored for 0, 6, and 12 months at room temperature. The results showed that the highest fresh kernel weight was observed in the ‘Marcona’ parent and two progenies, ‘G5’ and ‘G3’, at harvest time. The highest amounts of soluble carbohydrates were found in the ‘G4’ genotype, while the highest amounts of insoluble carbohydrates were observed in the ‘Mamaei’ parent and ‘G5’ genotype. The highest protein content was found in the ‘Mamaei’ parent and ‘G4’ genotype, while the maximum oil content was observed in the ‘G5’ genotype. The ‘G6’ genotype had the highest amount of total vitamin E. All studied traits showed a decreasing trend during the storage period, with the lowest amounts observed in all selected offspring after one year of storage. The results highlighted variations in traits such as fresh kernel weight, soluble and insoluble carbohydrates, protein, oil, and total vitamin E among different genotypes. Moreover, all traits exhibited a decline in values during storage, emphasizing the importance of selecting high-quality genotypes like ‘G5’ for almond breeding programs. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
7 - Comparative HPLC, GC-MS Analysis and In vitro Antifungal Activity of Walnut Kernels against Alternaria mali in Apple
Ruhee Jan Tabassum Ara Javid MirIssue 1 , Vol. 15 , Winter 2024Natural plant products are suitable, eco-friendly, and toxicologically safe for using in integrated disease management approaches. Present work was carried out to decipher the potential of walnut kernels against Alternaria mali, the causal agent of leaf and fruit blotch MoreNatural plant products are suitable, eco-friendly, and toxicologically safe for using in integrated disease management approaches. Present work was carried out to decipher the potential of walnut kernels against Alternaria mali, the causal agent of leaf and fruit blotch on apples. Bioactive compound profiling of extracts was also done through HPLC and GC-MS to reveal the potential role of the compounds for disease management. In the present study, a comparative analysis of the anti-fungal activity and concentration of active substances using HPLC and GC-MS in different walnut extracts has been carried out on the inhibition of A. mali. The extracts of walnut kernels belonging to different eco-geographical regions viz. CS (Char-e-Sharief), KG (Kulgam), TM (Tangmarg), and KW (Kupwara) of Kashmir valley were prepared. The extracts prepared were added to potato dextrose agar (PDA) @ 1000, 2000, and 3000 ppm for evaluation against A. mali. The results revealed the efficacy of the different walnut extracts, with a maximum inhibition of mycelia growth in the range of 60%, 62.2%, and 71.1% at 3000ppm. Among them, the TM (Tangmarg) extract showed the highest inhibition (71.1%). The bioactive compounds were identified by using GC-MS chromatographic technique. The Quercetin content was quantified in the kernels of walnut, collected from four locations in Kashmir valley using HPLC. Among the selected genotypes, the highest Quercetin content was observed in samples collected from TM (Tangmarg) (0.765mg g-1) followed by KW (Kupwara) (0.705 mg g-1). The major phenolic components identified by GC/MS were methyl-7,8-Octadecadienoate, hexadecanoic acid, linoleic acid, epicatechin, and tocopherol. The results of the present study can be utilized further in the development of formulation from walnut kernels for evaluation under field conditions. Manuscript profile
Most Viewed Articles
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Open Access Article
1 - Effects of Liquid Soap and Dishwashing Detergent on Pistachio Trees
Nazanin Vahabzadeh Mohammad Reza Hassani Sohrab Imani Hossein Allahyari Mahmoud ShojaiIssue 2 , Vol. 11 , Spring 2020The common pistachio psyllid, Agonoscena pistaciae Burckhardt and Lauterer (Hemiptera: Aphalaridae) is the key pest of pistachio trees in Iran. Nowadays, pistachio growers use detergents widely to control this pest in pistachio orchards. Consequently, the study was carr MoreThe common pistachio psyllid, Agonoscena pistaciae Burckhardt and Lauterer (Hemiptera: Aphalaridae) is the key pest of pistachio trees in Iran. Nowadays, pistachio growers use detergents widely to control this pest in pistachio orchards. Consequently, the study was carried out to investigate the effects of applying liquid soap (Jonobgan®) 3500 ppm, dishwashing detergent (Rika®) 3500 ppm, and conventional insecticides (spirotetramat (Movento®) 300 ppm and phosalon (Zolon®) 2500 ppm, periodically on some characteristics of “Fandoghi” pistachio trees, including sodium and potassium contents of leaves and bud abscission rate over three years. The field experiments were done in a randomized complete block design with three treatments and three replications in Rafsanjan. The results showed that the application of liquid soap and dishwashing detergent caused no significant variation in sodium and potassium contents of leaves and bud abscission compared to other conventional insecticides. Therefore, detergents can be used safely to control pistachio psyllid. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
2 - Response of Almond Genotypes/Cultivars Grafted on GN15 ‘Garnem’ Rootstock in Deficit-Irrigation Stress Conditions
Hossein Fathi Ali Imani Mohammad Esmaeel Amiri Jafar Hajilou Jaefar NikbakhtIssue 2 , Vol. 8 , Spring 2017This study was conducted to evaluate the response of Iranian promisinglate blooming almond genotypes to deficit-irrigation stress on GN15 rootstock. One-year old plants subjectedto three deficit-irrigation, including moderate and severe stress (soil water potential, &Ps MoreThis study was conducted to evaluate the response of Iranian promisinglate blooming almond genotypes to deficit-irrigation stress on GN15 rootstock. One-year old plants subjectedto three deficit-irrigation, including moderate and severe stress (soil water potential, Ψsoil = -0.8 and -1.6 MPa, respectively) and a control treatment (Ψsoil= -0.33 MPa), were applied for six weeks to five grafting combinations. A factorial experiment was conducted with a CRD which included three irrigations factors, five genotype factors and three replications. Genotypes/cultivarsincluded: ‘K3-3-1’, ‘H’, ‘13-40’, ‘Sahand’ and ‘Ferragness’ grafted on GN15 rootstock. Deficit-irrigation stress caused a significant reduction in plant growth parameters such as fresh and dry weights of plant organs, leafnumber, and total leafarea and leaf relativewatercontent in all almond genotypes and cultivars. Specific leaf weight (SLW) and leafabscission also significantly increased in drought-treated plants compared to the control group. Total shoot length, individual leaf area, leaf dimension (length and width), stomatal size and frequency were decreased in response to deficit-irrigation treatments. In response to stress, the‘Ferragnes’ and ‘Sahand’ cultivars on GN15 rootstock showed the highest relative water content (RWC) among the genotypes and showed the smallest decrease in fresh and dry weights of organs. The ’13-40’ and ‘K3-3-1’ genotypes showed the greatest leaf abscission and a decrease in the total leaf area, (the most reduction in transpiration area). Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
3 - Assessing Populations Diversity of Small Panel Oak (Quercus brantii) in Western Forests of Iran: a Major Effort in Reforestation Programs
Adele Rafezi Mohammad Reza Azimi Mehrshad Zeinalabedini Mohammad Reza ghaffariIssue 1 , Vol. 15 , Winter 2024Persian oak (Quercus brantii) is a critical, economic, and environmental species of Zagros forests in Iran. The effects of climate change and drought have caused a decline in Persian oak populations, leading to a severe reduction in genetic resources for future conserva MorePersian oak (Quercus brantii) is a critical, economic, and environmental species of Zagros forests in Iran. The effects of climate change and drought have caused a decline in Persian oak populations, leading to a severe reduction in genetic resources for future conservation programs. This study aims to evaluate the diversity and population structure of Persian oak in the western forests of Iran using morphological features. A total of 187 samples were collected from 15 locations in the Ilam province. Twenty phenotypic traits related to leaf, seed, and trunk characteristics were evaluated. Several multivariate statistical analyses were performed. The results revealed significant morphological diversity among the Persian oak ecotypes. Correlation analyses revealed a significant positive correlation between leaf length attribute and distance from leaf base to maximum leaf width (0.55) and maximum width of the leaflet (0.64) traits. The leaf width at 50% attribute with the maximum width of the leaflet and distance from leaf base to maximum leaf width have a positive (0.8 and 0.51 respectively) and significant correlation (p≤0.05). According to principal component analysis, the components of leaf and seed traits have the most impact on morphological variance. Hierarchical cluster analysis divided the locations into two groups, with some oak locations distributed in two clusters, indicating higher diversity of this species in different locations. Further research is needed to determine the optimal ecotype; however, the oaks in Ghallaje region have characteristics that can increase their ability to resist water scarcity, making them potentially appropriate for reforestation in Ilam province. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
4 - Effect of Kaolin Application on Water Stress in Pistachio cv. „Ohadi‟
A. Azizi H. Hokmabadi S. Piri V. RabieIssue 4 , Vol. 4 , Autumn 2013Effects of kaolin applicati on were evaluated on water stress in pistachio cv. ‘Ohadi’. This experiment was conducted in one of research sites at the Pistachio Research Institute in Rafsanjan (Kerman province) in . The results show that individual and intera MoreEffects of kaolin applicati on were evaluated on water stress in pistachio cv. ‘Ohadi’. This experiment was conducted in one of research sites at the Pistachio Research Institute in Rafsanjan (Kerman province) in . The results show that individual and interaction effects of all treatments were significant on nutrition absorption in leaves, although there was not a steady effect on all the elements. On the majority of the factors, control with days irrigation period and lower kaolin application had more effect on nutrients absorbed by the leaves. Lower irrigation and upper concentration of kaolin application boosted soluble solids content. Increasing of prolin concentration was more impacted by the interaction of kaolin . and low irrigation treatments and also leaf area showed decreasing trend by single kaolin application, but in this regard, interaction of kaolin with low irrigation has boosting effect on this factor. Lower irrigation period decreased total nut production, blankness percentage, and increased fresh weight (nearly ), percentage of split nut, percentage of early split nut, percentage of irregular cracking nuts and ounce index. More kaolin concentration increased fresh weight, percentage of closed nut and lowering the total pistachio production, blankness and early split nut. Interaction effect caused increasing fresh weight, percentage of closed nut, ounce of nut, and decreased total pistachio production, spit nut, blankness and early split nut. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
5 - The Effect of Roselle Calyx Extract and Nano-ZnO Biofilm on Walnut's Chemical and Sensory Properties
Neda Sadat Aghayan Maede Sadat Abbasi Anna Etemadi Razlighi Atousa Kokabian Neda Fallah Grace MorineIssue 1 , Vol. 15 , Winter 2024Bionanocomposite active films made from tapioca starch and bovine gelatin, with the addition of roselle calyx extract (RCE) and zinc oxide nanorod (ZnO-N), were created as packaging material to protect walnuts against mold, yeast contamination, and lipid oxidation. Thre MoreBionanocomposite active films made from tapioca starch and bovine gelatin, with the addition of roselle calyx extract (RCE) and zinc oxide nanorod (ZnO-N), were created as packaging material to protect walnuts against mold, yeast contamination, and lipid oxidation. Three types of packaging were produced: tapioca starch and bovine gelatin (control sample), tapioca starch, bovine gelatin, and RCE, and tapioca starch, bovine gelatin, ZnO-N, and RCE. Approximately 30 grams of walnuts were packed using each type of packaging and evaluated for acidity value, mold and yeast count, peroxide value, and sensory tests. After 90 days, the mold and yeast count of walnuts packed with RCE/ZnO-N and RCE was 4.49 and 4.65 log cfu/g respectively, compared to 4.95 log cfu/g in the control sample. At the end of the conservation period, the aroma score was 3.59 for walnuts packed with RCE/ZnO-N, compared to 2.5 for those packed with tapioca starch and bovine gelatin. The acidity value indicated that walnuts packed with RCE and RCE/ZnO-N had a positive effect on acidity, with the lowest value found in walnuts packed with RCE/ZnO-N. The study showed that bionanocomposite packaging films containing RCE and ZnO-N are effective in protecting walnuts against fungal contamination and oxidation. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
6 - Enhancing Growth and Morpho-physiological Traits of Tissue-cultured Explants of Persian Walnut through Manipulation of In vitro Lighting Spectra
Seyyed Arash Saeedi Kourosh Vahdati Sasan Aliniaeifard Saadat Sarikhani Shirin Dianati Maryam Davarzani Safieh FakhariIssue 1 , Vol. 15 , Winter 2024There are numerous challenges associated with the large-scale production of walnut In vitro-plantlets. It is imperative to develop new environmental control systems for its In vitro propagation. Additionally, there is a lack of knowledge regarding the impacts of lightin MoreThere are numerous challenges associated with the large-scale production of walnut In vitro-plantlets. It is imperative to develop new environmental control systems for its In vitro propagation. Additionally, there is a lack of knowledge regarding the impacts of lighting systems on the morpho-physiological traits and biomass accumulation in walnut tissue-cultured explants. In this study, walnut nodal shoots were subjected to eight different light spectra, including white, blue, red, green, far-red, blue-red combination, red-far-red combination, and a fluorescent lamp serving as a control, over a period of 28 days. The results indicated that combined spectra treatments, such as blue-red and red-far-red, led to improved biomass accumulation (total fresh and dry weight) compared to other monochromatic light spectral treatments. Furthermore, Light-emitting diode (LED) treatments had a discernible impact on the morpho-physiological traits of walnut In vitro-explants. Specifically, white light spectra enhanced Specific leaf area (SLA), while the green light spectra increased leaf water content (LWC) when compared to other light treatments. Additionally, the application of far-red light elevated leaf mass area (LMA) and water content per unit leaf area (LWCA). The findings of this study demonstrate that the quality, morphological, and growth characteristics of In vitro explants of walnut can be enhanced by utilizing specific light spectra. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
7 - Effects of Various Irrigation Levels and Biochar-Based Fertilizers on Peanut Production
Mahmoud M. Abbas Khalood W. Abooud Amjed Qasim Mohammed Sura Hasan Al-Zubaidi A'laa Hassan Abdul Hussain Noora M. Hameed Ahmed Ayoob Ibrahim Kahtan A. Mohammed Maytham T. Qasim Heba Takleef al salami Salam Ahjel Kholoud Ahmad bataynehIssue 4 , Vol. 13 , Autumn 2022Biochar-based fertilizers, customized to specific soil conditions, have piqued public attention to enhance soil quality and carbon sequestration. The incorporation of biochar into agricultural fields can become a primary factor in the preservation of soil productivity a MoreBiochar-based fertilizers, customized to specific soil conditions, have piqued public attention to enhance soil quality and carbon sequestration. The incorporation of biochar into agricultural fields can become a primary factor in the preservation of soil productivity and fertility. However, there is still no conclusive experimental evidence to support this claim. In this study, a split-plot experiment was carried out according to a randomized complete block design (RCBD) using three replications to evaluate the influence of irrigation and varied amounts of biochar-based fertilizer on peanut plants' yield to determine the water use efficiency (WUE). The primary treatment with different irrigation cycles and no irrigation, and the sub-treatment with biochar-based fertilizer of 50, 100, and 150 kg N ha-1 and no fertilizer, were performed in Sulaymaniyah which is located in the east of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. The results revealed that the seven-day irrigation cycle produces the largest pods and seeds, with 4325 and 2435 kg ha-1 yields, respectively. The 100 kg ha-1 biochar-based fertilizer yielded the highest output, with a pod yield of 3652 kg ha-1 and a seed yield of 1921 kg ha-1. According to the results of the interaction between irrigation management and biochar-based fertilizer, the irrigation treatment had a maximum seed yield of seven-day and the fertilizer treatment had a maximum seed output of 100 kg N ha-1 with an average of 3462 kg ha-1. The variance analysis results indicate that water use efficiency in irrigation management, different levels of biochar-based fertilizer, and their combined effect on total biomass, seed, and pods were significant. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
8 - Evaluation of Genetic Diversity of Iranians Populations of Hazlnut (Corylus avellana L.) Using SSR Markers
Ahmad Ershadi Javad Farrokhi ToolirIssue 4 , Vol. 13 , Autumn 2022Hazelnut (Corylus avellana L.) is mainly cultivated in the north and northwest of Iran. In this study, the genetic structure and diversity of 52 hazelnut accessions were investigated using 9 simple sequence repeats (SSR) loci. The number of alleles per locus ranged from MoreHazelnut (Corylus avellana L.) is mainly cultivated in the north and northwest of Iran. In this study, the genetic structure and diversity of 52 hazelnut accessions were investigated using 9 simple sequence repeats (SSR) loci. The number of alleles per locus ranged from 2 to 3, with a total number of 19 alleles. The highest and lowest values of observed alleles were found in the Fandogloo-Ardabil (Na=2.22) and 6th population (Na=1.77), respectively. The highest and lowest effective alleles were observed in Fandogloo-Gilan (Ne=1.94) and Hatammeshasi (Ne=1.56) populations, respectively. The highest value of the Shanon index (I=50%) was found in Hatammeshasi. A high level of genetic diversity, including expected heterozygosity (He), was found in Hatammeshasi population (He=0.50), while the highest value of observed heterozygosity (Ho) was found in Talesh population (Ho =0.25). The polymorphic information content (PIC) varied from 0.87 to 0.98 per locus. The mean values of PIC, Fis, and Fst for all loci were 0.88, 0.53, and 0.15, respectively. Overall, gene flow between populations (Nm=1.57) was observed in the studied populations. The highest correlations (r=0.94, p<0.05) were observed between the Eshkavar and Fandogloo-Gilan, and Hatammeshasi and Fandogloo-Ardabil populations. Regarding the X2 test at p<0.05, the studied populations did not follow the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. Cluster analysis based on UPGMA method divided hazelnut genotypes into four groups. The results confirm that SSR is a reliable DNA marker that can be used to accurately study genetic diversity in hazelnut populations. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
9 - Determination of Nutritional Value and Oxidative Stability of Fresh Walnut
Najmeh Chatrabnous Navid Yazdani Kourosh VahdatiIssue 1 , Vol. 9 , Winter 2018Walnut (Juglans regia L.) is a tree with significant economic value and usage for human health and various food industries. However, fresh walnut kernels are a less widespread product than the dried kernels. This study aimed to determine the fresh walnut kernel properti MoreWalnut (Juglans regia L.) is a tree with significant economic value and usage for human health and various food industries. However, fresh walnut kernels are a less widespread product than the dried kernels. This study aimed to determine the fresh walnut kernel properties including, fatty acid composition, proximate composition, total phenolics (TPs), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), acidic, peroxide and saponification values of extracted oil and minerals of fresh walnuts kernels. Green walnut fruits were harvested on commercial maturity. The content of different fatty acids (%) was determined as 16:0; 5.91, 18:1; 77.7, 18.2; 11.13 and 18:3; 2.84. Also, the essential nutritional compounds such as protein content (16 ± 0.67), ash (3± 0.32), water (20 ± 0.49), fat (40 ± 0.22) and total carbohydrate (21 ± 0.23) were quantified and reported in percentages. The energy content was 508 ± 0.48 kcal. Acidic values, peroxide values and saponification values in walnut oil were 3 ± 0.14, 0.3 ± 0.06 and 130 ± 0.54 respectively. Furthermore, the average mineral contents were also determined. In general, it can be claimed that fresh walnuts have significant amounts of protein, oil and minerals, and higher water content in comparison with dry nuts. Nonetheless, our results in comparison with the information available about dry walnuts showed that fresh walnuts contained less oil content compared to dried fruits. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
10 - Investigating the Correlation between Phosphorus and Zinc Levels with Leaf Chemistry and Pecan Nut Kernel Weight
Hasan Kadhim Nimr Ahmad Ismael Saber Ammar Daham Hind Ali Nasser Thair L. Mizal Kadhim Fadhil Kadhim Hayder TariqIssue 1 , Vol. 15 , Winter 2024The pecan tree holds significant economic value due to its versatile cultivation and utilization. To expand its reach in global markets, pecan nut breeding aims to enhance both the quantity and quality of the product through meticulous planning. In this context, phospho MoreThe pecan tree holds significant economic value due to its versatile cultivation and utilization. To expand its reach in global markets, pecan nut breeding aims to enhance both the quantity and quality of the product through meticulous planning. In this context, phosphorus and zinc are crucial nutrients for pecan nuts, playing a notable role in their nutritional profile. An experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of different levels of phosphorus and zinc on the nutrient content and yield of pecan trees. The experiment was designed in a factorial form with three levels of phosphorus (0, 250, and 500 kg P2O5 ha-1) and three levels of zinc (0, 25, and 50 kg Zn ha-1) in four replications. The results of the experiment showed that increasing the consumption of phosphorus had a significant effect on the concentration of phosphorus and iron in the leaves. However, a higher level of phosphorus application reduced the concentration of copper in the leaves. Similarly, the application of zinc increased the concentration of zinc (from 138.54 to 166.25 mg kg-1) in the leaves but decreased the concentration of phosphorus (from 0.15% to 0.13%). Interestingly, the application of 250 kg ha-1 of phosphorus led to a significant increase in the dry weight of the kernel, while higher levels of phosphorus had the opposite effect. These findings suggest that careful management of phosphorus and zinc levels in pecan orchards can have a significant impact on both nutrient content and yield. This research provides valuable insights for pecan breeders and growers seeking to optimize their practices and improve the quality of their crops. Manuscript profile
