@article{ author = {Ansari, V. and Salami, H. and Veeman, T.}, title = {Distributional Consequences of Subsidy Removal from Agricultural and Food Industry Sectors in Iran: A Price-based SAM Analysis}, abstract ={This paper explores the distributive impacts of subsidy removal in agricultural sectors and related industry in Iran, using a social accounting matrix (SAM)-based price model. The structural path analysis approach is used to decompose the overall influences into direct, global, and total effects. The simulation results reveal that a shock therapy strategy, which involves the removal of all subsidies from all food producing sectors at once, amplifies the adverse effects of this policy option, especially on the low income households. Also, results indicate that removing subsidy from food producing sectors has distributional consequences for the Iranian households. The rural low income group is the most adversely affected group while the urban high income group is the least affected among the Iranian households. In addition, reducing subsidy in food industry sector has the largest impact on the households’ welfare. Based on the results of the path decomposition of the households’ expenditure, it is expected that less than 50 percent of the overall effects of subsidy removal appear almost immediately after implementing this policy.}, Keywords = {Agriculture,Food industry,Income distribution,Iran,Path analysis,SAM,Subsidy}, volume = {16}, Number = {1}, pages = {1-19}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-184-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-184-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Naseri, B. and Golparvar, Z. and Razmjou, J. and Golizadeh, A.}, title = {Age-stage, Two-sex Life Table of Helicoverpa armigera (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) on Different Bean Cultivars}, abstract ={ The cotton bollworm, Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner), is one of the important polyphagous pests causing serious loss to many economically important crops in Iran. The goal of this experiment was to study the age-stage, two-sex life table of H. armigera on different bean cultivars including white kidney bean (cultivars Daneshkadeh, Pak, and Shokufa), red kidney bean (cultivars Akhtar, Naz, and Sayyad) and common bean (cultivar Talash) under laboratory conditions (25±1ºC, 65±5% RH, a 16:8 h light-dark photoperiod). The longest and shortest larval period and development time of total pre-adult H. armigera were 19.83±3.83 and 37.58±0.90 days on red kidney bean Akhtar, respectively, and 14.13±0.32 and 31.82±0.42 days on white kidney bean Pak, respectively. The lowest intrinsic rate of increase (r) was on red kidney bean Akhtar (0.115±0.009 day-1) and the highest on white kidney bean Pak and common bean Talash (0.142±0.001 day-1). The lowest and highest values of the net reproductive rate (R0) were on red kidney bean Akhtar (177.3±6.7 offspring) and white kidney bean Shokufa (270.1±6.7 offspring), respectively. The mean generation time (T) on different bean cultivars ranged from 37.03±0.05 to 44.64±0.07 days, which was shortest on white kidney bean Pak and longest on red kidney bean Akhtar. The results revealed that the cultivar Akhtar was the most unsuitable host for population growth of H. armigera.}, Keywords = {Cotton bllworm,Intrinsic rate of increase,Population growth}, volume = {16}, Number = {1}, pages = {19-32}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-4272-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-4272-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Mortezapour, H. and Ghobadian, B. and Khoshtaghaza, M. H. and Minaei, S.}, title = {Drying Kinetics and Quality Characteristics of Saffron Dried with a Heat Pump Assisted Hybrid Photovoltaic-thermal Solar Dryer}, abstract ={In the present study, saffron was dried using a heat pump-assisted hybrid photovoltaic-thermal solar dryer. The effect of different drying air temperatures at three levels (40, 50, and 60oC) and two different modes of the dryer (with and without heat pump system) were investigated on drying behaviour of saffron. After collecting the pertinent data, eleven drying models were used to describe drying characteristics of saffron. Quality characteristics of the dried products (including: colouring, aromatic strength and bitterness) were also evaluated. The results indicated that drying time decreased by 62% with increasing air temperature from 40 to 60oC. Moreover, applying heat pump with the dryer reduced RH of drying air and, consequently, enhanced drying rate and shortened drying period by 40%. A two-term drying model presented a relatively higher R2 and lower, MBE, and RMSE values at both modes of drying and, therefore, was selected to explain drying behaviour of saffron among the other models. The results of saffron quality evaluation showed that colouring characteristics of saffron improved with drying temperature and heat pump system. Meanwhile, aromatic strength of saffron increased with increasing air temperature. But, no significant change in bitterness was observed at different levels of temperature and heat pump system.}, Keywords = {PV-T dryer,Mathematical modelling,Quality drying,Two-term model}, volume = {16}, Number = {1}, pages = {33-45}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-1568-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-1568-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Mahmood, S. and Usman, M.}, title = {Consequences of Magnetized Water Application on Maize Seed Emergence in Sand Culture}, abstract ={Present study examines whether there is any beneficial effect of magnetized water application on seedling emergence of maize seeds. Water from various sources like tap water, saline water (1,500 ppm), canal water, and sewerage water was treated magnetically by passing it through 235 mT magnetic fields at 3 lpm flow rate. Seeds were soaked in water for 24 hours and planted in sand culture. Number of seedling emerged were counted on daily basis while growth data was measured 15 days after planting. Emergence indicators like Emergence Index (EI), Emergence Rate Index (ERI) and Mean Emergence Time (MET) were used to evaluate the germination of maize seed. Results of the present study revealed that application of magnetized water promoted the germination of maize seeds. Emergence index and emergence rate index values increased from 5.50 to 8.92 and 10.06 to 12.84 and the mean emergence time was reduced 17.90% for magnetized sewerage water in contrast to non-magnetized. Magnetized water treatment showed faster and heavier growth in all water types. Overall, the maximum increase in length and weight of emerged seedlings was noted with magnetized sewerage water. Since the results are based on limited laboratory scale study, further testing of magnetized water application in irrigated environment is suggested before making any concrete recommendations.}, Keywords = {Magnetic Treatment,Maize Seed Germination,Sand Culture,Water quality}, volume = {16}, Number = {1}, pages = {47-55}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-7594-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-7594-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {BahreiniBehzadi, M. R. and Aslaminejad, A. A. and Sharifi, A. R. and Simianer, H.}, title = {Comparison of Mathematical Models for Describing the Growth of Baluchi Sheep}, abstract ={The objectives of this study were to identify a suitable mathematical model for describing the growth curve of Baluchi sheep based on monthly records of live weight from birth to yearling; and to evaluate the efficacies of nonlinear mixed effect model (NLMM) and the nonlinear fixed effect model (NLM) methodologies. Growth models were fitted to a total of 16,650 weight–age data belonging to 2071 lambs. Five nonlinear growth functions of von Bertalanffy, Gompertz, Brody, Logistic, and Richards and two linear polynomial functions were applied. The growth models were compared by using the Akaike’s information criterion (AIC) and residual mean square (MSE). Among all nonlinear fixed effect models, the Brody function had the smallest AIC and MSE values, indicating the best fit for both sexes. The Brody fixed effect model compared with NLMM including one random effect of asymptotic mature weight. The model evaluation criteria indicated that the Brody mixed effect model fitted the data better than the corresponding fixed effect model. It can be concluded that, among the linear models, the polynomial of the third order and, among nonlinear models, Brody mixed model were found to best fit the Baluchi sheep growth data.}, Keywords = {Body weight,growth model,nonlinear regression}, volume = {16}, Number = {1}, pages = {57-68}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-186-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-186-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {GhaviHossein-Zadeh, N.}, title = {Effect of Dystocia on the Productive Performance and Calf Stillbirth in Iranian Holsteins}, abstract ={ Calving records from April 1998 to September 2006 comprising 104,572 calving events from 16 dairy herds of Iran were used to analyze the potential effect of dystocia on calf stillbirth and productive traits in Iranian Holsteins. Statistical analyses of production traits were performed using a linear mixed model procedure. Also, a logistic regression model was constructed to analyze the effect of dystocia on calf stillbirth. The odds of stillbirth was greater after severe dystocia [P< 0.001; Odds Ratio (OR)= 29.66]. Also, the odds of stillbirth were the highest for primiparous cows which calved with severe dystocia (caesarian). Cows that experienced caesarian at calving had the lower 305-day milk yield than other classes of dystocia (P< 0.05). Cows that experienced caesarian at calving had the lower unadjusted, 305-day and mature equivalent fat yields than other classes of dystocia (P< 0.05). The results of this study indicated the scope of economic and animal welfare opportunities associated with the reduction of dystocia by management and breeding in dairy herds.}, Keywords = {Calving difficulty,Dairy cow,Milk yield,mortality}, volume = {16}, Number = {1}, pages = {69-78}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-8128-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-8128-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Masoudi, A. A.}, title = {Genetic Characterization, Polymorphism and Evolution Analysis in Part of the EDNRB Gene in Cattle and Goat}, abstract ={The aim of this study was to analyze the polymorphisms existing in the 5´ flanking region, exonic, and some parts of the intronic regions as well as methylation analysis of the EDNRB gene in cattle and goat. These regions were sequenced in three different breeds of cattle including Sistani, Golpayegani, and Holstein and were compared with that of Marghoz goat. The results identified that this gene encodes 441 amino acid residues in cattle and goat with highly conserved domains between them. A total of 55 transition and 43 transversion mutations were observed in the 5´ and 3´ flanking and exonic regions. Among the six coding mutations in goat EDNRB gene, a missense mutation of C236>T resulted in substitution of Alanine-79 to Valine. The frequency of the T allele in the goat population was 0.77. In addition, an insertion of TG(29) repeat was identified at the -773 upstream of the gene in goat samples. The promoter region of the gene harbors two GC rich conserved motifs and transcription factor binding sites for GATA and SP1 in both species, which may modulate the expression of the gene. The methylation analysis of a 182 bp fragment of the 5´ region of the EDNRB gene, located at the fringe of the CpG island, was found to be completely methylated in both cattle and goat. Evolutionary analysis revealed that the cattle and goat EDNRB proteins were sisters in their own clade and dN / dS ratio demonstrated that the EDNRB gene underwent purifying selection during evolution.}, Keywords = {Methylation,Mutation,Promoter,Selection}, volume = {16}, Number = {1}, pages = {79-90}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-11642-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-11642-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Kalbassi, M. R. and Lorestani, R. and G.Marammazi, J.}, title = {Improvement of Sperm Quality Indices of Benni Fish (Barbus sharpeyi) by Application of LHRHA2 and Metoclopramide}, abstract ={The main objective of this study was assessment of hormonal treatments effects on sperm quality improvement in Barbus sharpeyi. Results showed differences in effects of treatments with LHRHa2, LHRHa2 combined with a dopamine antagonist (MET), and CPE (Carp Pituitary Extract) on parameters of sperm volume, motility, spermatocrit, biochemical indices of seminal plasma and sperm efficiency on artificial propagation, incubation survival, and deformities. Biochemical analysis of seminal plasma showed that the majority of parameters were affected by different hormonal treatments. In conclusion, the highest sperm quality of Benni fish could be achieved by application of LHRHA2 (10 µg kg-1+MET), LHRHA2 (5 µg kg-1+MET) and LHRHA2 (5 µg kg-1) at 8, 12, and 16 hours PHS, respectively.}, Keywords = {Hormone treatment,Dopamine antagonist,Carp pituitary extract (CPE),Sperm quality}, volume = {16}, Number = {1}, pages = {91-104}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-7960-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-7960-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Maranho, L. A. and Botelho, R. G. and MitieInafuku, M. and Nogueira, L. de A. R. and AlvesdeOlinda, R. and InaciodeSousa, B. A. and Tornisielo, V. L.}, title = {Testing the Neem Biopesticide (Azadirachta indica A. Juss) for Acute Toxicity with Danio rerio and for Chronic Toxicity with Daphnia magna}, abstract ={Recently, some natural products have been used in the fields as alternative to synthetic compounds, to minimize the negative impacts to the environment. This study aimed to verify the effects of Neem-based bio-pesticide in causing acute toxicity for a fish and chronic toxicity for a microcrustacean. To this end, Danio rerio and Daphnia magna were exposed to various concentrations of a Neem-based oil formulation. In the first experiment, adults of D. rerio were exposed for 96 hours to different concentrations to determine the median lethal concentration (LC50-96h). For D. magna, first an acute toxicity test was performed to determine the median effective concentration (EC50-48h). Based on the EC50 established in the acute test, the concentrations for the 21-day chronic toxicity test were determined. Endpoints evaluated were reproduction (number of neonates produced) and size of D. magna.The median lethal concentration for the fish was 0.22 mL L-1, and the median effective concentration (EC50 - 48h) for D. magna was 0.17 mL L-1. In the chronic test, all concentrations affected reproduction and size of D. magna. The formulation tested may be hazardous to aquatic organisms.}, Keywords = {Aquatic organisms,Insecticide,Natural products,Toxicology}, volume = {16}, Number = {1}, pages = {105-111}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-6440-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-6440-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Aminifar, M. and Emam-Djomeh, Z.}, title = {Changes of Texture, Microstructure and Free Fatty Acid Contents of Lighvan Cheese during Accelerated Ripening with Lipase}, abstract ={In this study, the effect of addition of three different levels of microbial lipase (0, 4, and 8.0 g lipase in 100 kg milk) was investigated on the physiochemical properties, free fatty acids, textural properties, and microstructure of Lighvan cheese during ripening. The addition of lipase did not significantly affect pH, acidity, moisture, and salt content of Lighvan cheese, but increased its free fatty acid content considerably. It also increased hardness and decreased the brittleness of Lighvan cheese in all stages of ripening. The number and the mean diameter of fat globules, which were entrapped in casein network, were affected by all levels of the added lipase. Following the addition of lipase to Lighvan cheese and after 90 days of ripening, individual fat globules or their aggregates totally disappeared and some fingerprints of fat were observed. Disappearance of fat globules along with increase in protein matrix junctions leads to uniform structure of casein consisting voids which are produced from fermentation.}, Keywords = {Fat globule,Hardness Lipolysis,Traditional cheese}, volume = {16}, Number = {1}, pages = {113-123}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-9264-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-9264-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Farahnaky, A. and Darabzadeh, N. and Majzoobi, M. and Mesbahi, Gh.}, title = {Physicochemical Properties of Crude and Purified Locust Bean Gums Extracted from Iranian Carob Seeds}, abstract ={In this research, seeds of Iranian carob trees grown wild in Kazeroon city (Fars Province) were used to extract Iranian locust bean gum as a seed galactomannan. Chemical composition, solubility, and rheological properties of crude and purified gums were investigated and compared with a commercial (Sigma) locust bean gum (LBG) sample. Chemical composition of the purified Iranian LBG was similar to the commercial LBG, however, the protein content of Iranian crude LBG was higher. Solubility data showed that the Iranian crude LBG was partially cold-water soluble (~ 55% at 25°C) and needed heating to reach a higher solubility value (~ 71% at 80 °C). Rheological properties of the solutions of the three LBG samples were investigated as a function of concentration and temperature (5-60 °C) at shear rate range of 0.5-200 s-1. All three samples showed shear thinning behavior and Power law model was used to fit the experimental data. The Iranian LBG (crude and pure) was able to thicken aqueous solutions; however, its viscosity level was lower than that of the commercial LBG. Study of rheological properties of the three LBG samples at different pH levels (2.5-10) showed that they were significantly affected by pH. The intrinsic viscosities of the Iranian crude and purified LBG and commercial LBG were 3.95, 9.05, and 9.48 dL g-1, respectively.}, Keywords = {Consistency index,Carob seeds,Iranian LBG,Intrinsic viscosity,Rheology}, volume = {16}, Number = {1}, pages = {125-136}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-11007-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-11007-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Zhao, H. F. and Zhao, Y. and Zhang, C. and Tao, X. and Xu, N.}, title = {Growth, Leaf Gas Exchange, and Chlorophyll Fluorescence Responses of Two Cultivars of Salix integra Thunb. to Waterlogging Stress}, abstract ={Salix integra Thunb. is a shrub distributed in China along the Huai River riparian zone, and plays an important role in water and soil conservation. S. integra shrub land is easily submerged during July to October due to the flooding of Huai River. In order to characterize the physiological mechanisms of waterlogging tolerance of S. integra and to help rationally select waterlogging-tolerant species to alleviate the flood damage to agricultural production, we studied the effects of flooding on the growth, leaf gas exchange, and chlorophyll fluorescence of S. integra cuttings during a growth season (from August to October 2011). The biomass production and photosynthesis of S. integra cv. qingpi were promoted under moderate waterlogging stress, whereas its growth, chlorophyll content, net photosynthetic rate, and stomatal conductance were all significantly lower than those of the control group. A significant increase in non-photochemical quenching (NPQ) and a reduction in PSII maximal quantum photochemistry efficiency (Fv/Fm) were observed inflooded seedlings of S. integra cv. hongpi. In the case of S. integra cv. qingpi, however, there were no significant differences in NPQ and Fv/Fmbetween the treatment and the controls. Our results demonstrated that S. integra cv. hongpi exhibited slight damage to its photosynthetic apparatus under flooding. In contrast, a moderate flooding stress promoted the leaf and root production of S. integra cv. qingpi, indicating that S. integra cv. qingpi can tolerate prolonged soil flooding better than S. integra cv. hongpi. Thus, S. integra cv. qingpi is more suitable for afforestation in the riparian zone.}, Keywords = {Biomass,Flooding,Photosynthetic rate,Shrub,Tolerate}, volume = {16}, Number = {1}, pages = {137-146}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-7910-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-7910-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Rakonjac, V. and Mratinić, E. and Jovković, R. and FotirićAkšić, M.}, title = {Analysis of Morphological Variability in Wild Cherry (Prunus avium L.) Genetic Resources from Central Serbia}, abstract ={In thirty-three wild cherry (Prunus avium L.) accessions from Central Serbia, tree, leaf, fruit, and stone morphological characters were evaluated during three consecutive years. The goal was to detect relationships between the genotypes and to identify the most useful traits for discrimination among them. The study revealed a high variability in the set of the evaluated wild cherry accessions and considerable differences were found among them in all studied attributes. The majority of important correlations were determined among variables representing fruit and leaf size, and variables related to color. Cluster analysis distinguished wild cherry accessions into two distinct groups. In PCA, fruit and leaf traits such as leaf length and width, and fruit height, width, and weight, and skin flesh and juice color were predominant in the first two components, indicating that they were useful for the assessment of wild cherry germplasm characterization. These results indicate that these accessions must be conserved as valuable genetic resources to enrich the cherry gene pool and can be used for improving breeding efficiency of important horticultural traits worldwide.}, Keywords = {Cluster Analysis,Fruit traits,Leaf traits,PCA}, volume = {16}, Number = {1}, pages = {151-162}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-8854-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-8854-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Mirdehghan, S. H. and Ghotbi, F.}, title = {Effects of Salicylic Acid, Jasmonic Acid, and Calcium Chloride on Reducing Chilling Injury of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) Fruit}, abstract ={The pomegranate fruits of cvs. Malas Yazdi and Malas Ashkezar were immersed in SA (1 and 2 mM from source of acytyl salicylic acid) for five minutes, in JA (0.3 and 0.4 mM from source of n-propyl dihydrojasmonate) for fifteen minutes, in CaCl2 (1 and 2%) for five minutes, and in distilled water for five minutes as control. Then, the fruits were stored in cold storage at 1.5±0.5ºC and 85±5% relative humidity for 2 months. Every 21 days, samples were taken out of the cold storage and were kept at 20ºC for 3 days before analysis. The analysis results revealed that treatments with SA, JA, and CaCl2 significantly reduced the chilling injury of pomegranate fruits. The lowest chilling injury index was observed in 0.4 mM of JA-treated fruits and the highest was for untreated fruits. Electrolyte leakage of fruits increased upon treatments of fruits with 0.3 mM JA and 2 mM SA, but it was not significantly affected by other treatments. Treatments of fruits with SA, JA, and CaCl2 had no significant effect on phenolic compounds, but the total soluble solids of fruit juices was increased. Our findings indicated that total antioxidant activity decreased in treatments with 1, 2 mM SA and 0.3 mM JA , but it was not significantly affected by other treatments.}, Keywords = {Arils,Browning,Cold storage,Ion leakage,shelf life}, volume = {16}, Number = {1}, pages = {163-173}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-4937-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-4937-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Liu, S. C. and Zhang, G. C. and Yang, L. F. and Mii, M. and Gai, J. Y. and Zhu, Y. L.}, title = {Bialaphos-resistant Transgenic Soybeans Produced by the Agrobacterium-mediated Cotyledonary-node Method}, abstract ={A stable Agrobacterium-mediated transformation system was established using bialaphos as the selective agent in soybeans [Glycine max (L.) Merr.]. The cotyledonary node explants of the soybean cultivar ‘NY-1001’ were inoculated with the Agrobacterium tumefaciens strain EHA105, harboring the vector pCAMBIA3301 containing the gus gene as the reporter gene and the bar gene conferring bialaphos resistance. The highest frequency of GUS transient expression (92%) was obtained after inoculation and 4-day co-cultivation with A. tumefaciens strain EHA105. Efficient GUS expression was observed in regenerated shoots from explants after 4-day co-cultivation combined with culturing on shoot induction medium (SIM) without bialaphos for 7 days followed by 4 mg.L-1 bialaphos for 2 weeks. Bialaphos (4 mg.L-1 in SIM; 2 mg.L-1 in shoot elongation medium (SEM)) effectively selected the transformants. The putative transformants and escapes could be exactly distinguished by using a half-leaf GUS assay method to detect GUS expression in the elongated resistant shoots, which resulted in the shortening of culture period for the early detection of transformed shoots. The transformation efficiency of this system was 1.06%. The transgenic plants were verified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), Southern blotting, and herbicide-resistant responses. All four T0 transgenic plants were fertile and transmitted the phenotypes of both gus and bar in a 3:1 ratio to their progeny. These results indicate that the established system is suitable for further breeding of herbicide-resistant transgenic cultivars, as well as for functional genomics studies of soybeans.}, Keywords = {Bar gene,Glycine max,Genetic transformation,Herbicide-resistance,Transgene inheritance}, volume = {16}, Number = {1}, pages = {175-190}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-2464-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-2464-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Sarvestani, R. and Peyghambary, S. A. and Abbasi, A.}, title = {Isolation and Characterization of DBR2 Gene Promoter from Iranian Artemisia annua}, abstract ={Artemisia annua is still the only commercial source of Artemisinin. To date, a number of biochemical and molecular studies about Artemisinin’s biosynthetic pathway have been carried out. In metabolic engineering approach, isolation and characterization of promoters leads to an understanding of which cis-acting elements are responsible for the regulation of gene expression. DBR2 is a key enzyme in Artemisinin biosynthetic pathway. In order to allow chromosome walking beyond the 5'-flanking region of DBR2, two specific primers were used in combination with 6 arbitrary primers in TAIL-PCR method. A 696bp upstream of DBR2 start codon was isolated and cloned. The subsequent sequence analysis using bioinformatics softwares revealed that there were several cis-acting elements such as TATA-box, CAAT-box, and MeJA-responsive element, and several W-box and light-responsive elements inside the DBR2 promoter. These results can be helpful in understanding of artemisinin biosynthesis regulation and will facilitate metabolic engineering of the compound.}, Keywords = {Artemisinin,Cis-acting element,Chromosome walking,Metabolic engineering}, volume = {16}, Number = {1}, pages = {191-202}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-12139-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-12139-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Zhang, D. L. and Gao, A. L. and Li, Y. G. and Su, Y. R. and He, S. B. and Li, S. P.}, title = {Molecular Characterization and Phylogenetic Analysis of Novel α-gliadin Genes from Triticum dicoccoides L.}, abstract ={The quality traits of Triticum dicoccoides KU-13441 (Triticum turgidum L. var. dicoccoides (AABB, 2n= 4x= 28)) were analyzed by mixograph, and the results showed that T. dicoccoides KU-13441 had desirable qualities in gluten strength and flour stirring tolerance. Subsequently, seventeen novel full-ORF α-gliadin genes and thirty-five pseudogenes were cloned and sequenced from T. dicoccoides KU-13441. Among the 17 novel full-ORF α-gliadin genes, the putative proteins of Gli2-TD-44 and Gli2-TD-46 contained an extra cysteine residue, located in the first nonrepetitive region and N-terminal repetitive domain, respectively, rather than in the second nonrepetitive region like other α-gliadins. Prokaryotic expression analysis and western-blotting indicated that these two α-gliadin genes could be successfully expressed under the control of T7 promoter. According to the varying numbers of 4 typical coeliac disease toxic peptides and glutamine residues in the two ployglutamine domains among the 17 α-gliadins, Gli2-TD-39, Gli2-TD-46 and Gli2-TD-47 genes were assigned to sub-genome B and other 14 genes were assigned to sub-genome A. Phylogenetic analysis including two S-genome species, Aegilops longissima (Sl) and Aegilops speltoides (S) revealed that the α-gliadin sequences of the B genome in T. dicoccoides had closer genetic relationship with those from Ae. speltoides. This implies that Ae. speltoides might participate in the origin of wheat B genome.}, Keywords = {α-gliadin genes,Molecular characterization,Phylogenetic analysis,Wild emmer wheat}, volume = {16}, Number = {1}, pages = {203-215}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-1729-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-1729-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Deng, L. H. and Weng, L. S. and Xiao, G. Y.}, title = {Optimization of Epsps Gene and Development of Double Herbicide Tolerant Transgenic PGMS Rice}, abstract ={The alternative use of non-selective herbicides in different years will reduce the possibility of weeds resistance to herbicide by avoiding the crops constant exposure to herbicide selection pressure. The photoperiod-sensitive genic male sterile (PGMS) rice with herbicide resistance will be convenient to the mechanization of hybrid seed production and weed control. In order to develop double herbicide tolerant transgenic PGMS rice, the optimized Epspsgene and the Bar gene were jointly introduced into 7001S, a japonica PGMS rice, by Agrobacterium-mediated transformation. The coding sequence of Epsps gene was optimized based on the codon usage of rice genes and the function of optimized Epspsgene was validated by real-time PCR analysis, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay of EPSPS protein, and herbicide resistant assay in the obtained independent transformants. The highest relative expression level of EPSPS protein in leaf reached 9.02% of the total soluble proteins. The transformants of T2 generation withstood at least 3.332 g glyphosate /m2 at seedling stage, which was 2.7 times higher than that reported by Monsanto Company. The transformants harboring the optimized Epsps gene and Bar gene were also resistant to glyphosate and glufosinate simultaneously at seedling stage; the resistant dosages were 0.375 g glufosinate m-2 and 0.833 g glyphosate m-2.}, Keywords = {Codon optimization,Glyphosate resistance,Glufosinate resistance,Photoperiod-sensitive genic male sterile}, volume = {16}, Number = {1}, pages = {217-228}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-2314-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-2314-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Erfanzadeh, R. and Shahbazian, R. and Zali, H.}, title = {Role of Plant Patches in Preserving Flora from the Soil Seed Bank in an Overgrazed High-mountain Habitat in Northern Iran}, abstract ={Seed bank is a central topic for plant community restoration. We determined the potential and regeneration capacity of soil seed banks of woody plant patches in conservation of the vegetation in an alpine habitat, since vegetation has completely disappeared in some sites by intensive grazing in the habitat. The study was done in mountainous area of Alborz in Iran. A total of 20 individual shrubby patches were selected and two quadrats were established in and out of each patch. Soil samples were then collected from each quadrat in spring, 2011. Above-ground vegetation was estimated in each quadrat in the growing season. The soil seed bank was determined by Seedling Emergence method in the greenhouse. The results showed that the soil seed bank density inside the shrub patches was much higher than outside the patches. This differentiation was more pronounced for forbs. However, seed density of the between-patches was strongly correlated to seed density of the within-patches, indicating the so-called patch effect. Similarity between the soil seed bank and aboveground vegetation was lower inside the patches than outside. This study revealed that the limited woody patches that have remained in the study area could play an important role in conservation of herbaceous and palatable species by their positive effects on the aboveground vegetation and the soil seed bank. }, Keywords = {Alpine grassland,Nurse plant. Palatable species,Patch effect,Seed dispersal}, volume = {16}, Number = {1}, pages = {229-238}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-1688-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-1688-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Zhong, S. and Mo, Y. and Guo, G. and Zeng, H. and Jin, Z.}, title = {Effect of Continuous Cropping on Soil Chemical Properties and Crop Yield in Banana Plantation}, abstract ={The effects of banana continuous cropping on soil quality and chemical properties and crop yield were investigated under continuous cropping for 1, 3, 5, 7, 10, and 15 years in Hainan province, China. The results indicated that the contents of total N, total K, available K, NH4-N, exchangeable Ca, and available Cu tended to increase, while total organic C (TOC), available S, and available Zn tended to decrease with the increase of continuous cropping years at the four sampling stages. The contents of exchangeable Mg and available Fe and Mn were higher in the 3, 5, 7, and 10 years than in the 1 and 15 years at the four sampling stages. The values of pH, the contents of total P and available P decreased from 1 to 5 years and increased from 7 to 15 years at most of the sampling stages. Overall, average banana yield increased from 1 to 3 years and decreased afterwards. In conclusion, banana continuous cropping deteriorated soil quality as evidenced by increase of soil acidity, decrease of total organic C, accumulation of N, P, K, Ca and Cu, deficiency of Mg, S, Fe, Mn, and Zn and accompanying decline in banana yield. In order to improve the soil environment and sustain higher productivity under continuous-banana cropping system, application of balanced rate of fertilizers is of considerable importance.}, Keywords = {Balanced fertilization,Continuous cropping,Latosols,Nutrients accumulation,Soil acidity,Soil quality,Sustainability}, volume = {16}, Number = {1}, pages = {239-250}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-3022-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-3022-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {KhaksarAstaneh, H. and Yaghoubi, M. and Kalateharabi, Vahi}, title = {Determining Revealed Comparative Advantage and Target Markets for Iran\'s Stone Fruits}, abstract ={This study investigated the export status of stone fruits in Iran during 1997 to 2010. Export trends and revealed comparative advantage of indices, namely, Revealed Comparative Advantage (RCA), Revealed Symmetric Comparative Advantage (RSCA), and Relative Export Advantage (RXA) as well as Trade Mapping (TM) were investigated for cherries, plums, peaches, and apricots. Target markets for these products were ranked using numerical taxonomies. The results showed that Iran had export's comparative advantage for stone fruits only in 2007 and 2010. But, this index had a positive growth for the stone fruits in those years, indicating an increasing trend in the export status of these products. Trade mapping analysis indicates that although the export market for these products has declined during the period studied, Iran has taken a greater share of the market and is among the winner groups. The principal export markets in decreasing order were found to be Germany, The UK, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Switzerland, the UAE, and Afghanistan.}, Keywords = {Export revealed comparative advantage,market structure,RCA,RSCA,RXA,Stone fruits,Target markets,TM}, volume = {16}, Number = {2}, pages = {253-264}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-9116-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-9116-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Romeh, A. A. and Hendawi, M. Y.}, title = {Bioremediation of Certain Organophosphorus Pesticides by Two Biofertilizers, Paenibacillus( Bacillus) polymyxa (Prazmowski ) and Azospirillum lipoferum (Beijerinck)}, abstract ={Continuous and excessive use of organophosphorus compounds has led to the contamination of water and soil ecosystems. The degradation of organophosphorus insecticides, chlorpyrifos, chlorpyrifos- methyl, cyanophos and malathion in mineral salts media were studied. The effect of additional biofertilizers, singly or combined with organic amendments, on chlorpyrifos and cyanophos degrading activity in soil were investigated. Paenibacillus ( Bacillus) polymyxa (Prazmowski ) and Azospirillum lipoferum (Beijerinck) were found to degrade the organophosphorus insecticides, chlorpyrifos, chlorpyrifos- methyl, cyanophos and malathion in mineral salts media as a carbon and phosphorus source. Paenibacillus ( Bacillus) polymyxa (Prazmowski ) appeared to be more effective than Azospirillum lipoferum in degrading all the tested organophosphate pesticides in mineral salts media. The half-life values (t1/2) of chlorpyrifos, chlorpyrifos – methyl , cyanophos and malathion were found to be undetectable , undetectable , 2.4, and undetectable days in mineral salts media inoculated by Paenibacillus ( Bacillus) polymyxa (Prazmowski ),while they reached 1.6, 0.1, 5.2, and 0.8 days by Azospirillum lipoferum (Beijerinck) compared to 4.4, 1.8, 8.8, and 1.4 days in non-inoculated mineral salts media. Chlorpyrifos and cyanophos degraded in soil samples inoculated by Azospirillum lipoferum (Beijerinck) plus peat- moss more rapidly than in the other treatments. Dual inoculation of Azospirillum lipoferum (Beijerinck) and Paenibacillus ( Bacillus) polymyxa (Prazmowski ) improved the rate of degradation of chlorpyrifos and cyanophos in soil. Azospirillum lipoferum (Beijerinck) appeared to be more effective than Paenibacillus ( Bacillus) polymyxa (Prazmowski ) in degrading soil-applied chlorpyrifos and cyanophos. These results highlight the potential of these bacteria to be used in the clean- up of contaminated pesticides – waste in the environment.}, Keywords = {Biofertilizer,Insecticides,Microbial degradation,Mineral soil}, volume = {16}, Number = {2}, pages = {265-276}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-7108-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-7108-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Zamani, P. and H.Sajedi, R. and Ghadamyari, M. and Memarizadeh, N.}, title = {Resistance Mechanisms to Chlorpyrifos in Iranian Populations of the Two-spotted Spider Mite, Tetranychus urticae (Acari: Tetranychidae)}, abstract ={ The toxicity of chlorpyrifos to three Iranian populations of two-spotted spider mite, collected from Isfahan (ISR), Yazd (Yz) and Guilan (GUS2) Provinces were surveyed using the residual contact vial bioassay. The bioassay results showed that resistance ratios of ISR and Yz populations were 176.90 and 9.78 fold compared to the GUS2 population, respectively. Determination of esterase and glutathione-S-transferase activity and their kinetic parameters showed that ISR population had the highest specific activity and specificity constant among the studied populations. Besides, the content of mixed function oxidases in ISR population was the highest. However, synergistic effects of Piperonyl Butoxide, Diethyl Maleate and Triphenyl Phosphate showed that metabolic enzymes did not play an important role in resistance to chlorpyrifos in ISR and Yz populations and enhanced activity of esterase, glutathione-S-transferase and content of mixed function oxidases in these populations were probably due to resistance to some other acaricides. To determine the role of acetylcholinesterase insensitivity in resistance mechanisms, kinetic parameters and inhibitory effect of chlorpyrifos-oxon on this enzyme were investigated. The Km value of acetylcholinesterase was determined as 0.036, 0.04, and 0.050 mM using acetylthiocholine iodide for GUS2, Yz, and ISR populations, respectively. In addition, the insensitivity ratios of chlorpyrifos-oxon on acetylcholinesterase activity were estimated at 23.30 and 2.96 for ISR and Yz populations, respectively. These results confirmed amino acid substitutions in active site of this enzyme and also indicated that resistant population possed qualitatively altered AChE.}, Keywords = {Acetylcholinesterase,Biochemical mechanism,Detoxification enzymes,Organophosphate acaricides,Synergists}, volume = {16}, Number = {2}, pages = {277-289}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-10855-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-10855-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Hammami, H. and Aliverdi, A. and Parsa, M.}, title = {Effectiveness of Clodinafop-Propargyl, Haloxyfop-p-methyl and Difenzoquat-methyl-sulfate Plus Adigor® and Propel™ Adjuvants in Controlling Avena ludoviciana Durieu.}, abstract ={Various adjuvants carry out different functions depending on the herbicides types and the target species. Outdoor pot experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of three post-emergence herbicides, namely, clodinafop-propargyl, haloxyfop-p-methyl, and difenzoquat-methyl-sulfate, as influenced by two adjuvants, on wild oat (Avena ludoviciana Durieu.) control. The study was carried out at the Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Iran, during 2010. The applied adjuvants were Adigor® and Propel™, registered and sold for use with pinoxaden and tralkoxydim herbicides, respectively, at 0.1 and 0.2% (v/v). These two adjuvants in tank-mixture with the tested herbicides were completely compatible physically and resulted in improvement in controlling wild oats. When Propel™ was added to all three herbicides, herbicidal activity was higher than when Adigor® was added. With increasing adjuvant concentrations, the performance of the tested herbicides increased significantly. In general, the benefit of the two adjuvants appeared greater for clodinafop-propargyl than for the other herbicides. The performance against wild oat of clodinafop-propargyl, haloxyfop-p-methyl, or difenzoquat-methyl-sulfate plus Propel™ at 0.2% was higher by 2.92, 1.42, and 1.67 times, respectively, compared with the use of those herbicides without adjuvants. This result may be related to differences in the physio-chemical characteristics of the tested herbicides. Overall, use of Propel™ with clodinafop-propargyl is recommendable.}, Keywords = {Herbicide efficacy,Petroleum-based oil,Vegetable-based oil}, volume = {16}, Number = {2}, pages = {291-299}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-10105-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-10105-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Farissi, M. and Faghire, M. and Bargaz, A. and Bouizgaren, A. and Makoudi, B. and Ghoulam, C.}, title = {Growth, Nutrients Concentrations, and Enzymes Involved in Plants Nutrition of Alfalfa Populations under Saline Conditions}, abstract ={In order to assess the effect of salinity constraint on some agro-physiological and biochemical traits in Medicago sativa L., four Alfalfa populations (Tafilalet 1, Tafilalet 2, Demnate and Tata), originated from mountains and oasis of Morocco, were tested. The plants were grown under greenhouse conditions in pots filled with sand and peat under three salt treatments (0, 100 and 200 mM NaCl). Thereafter, plants were harvested 45 days after salt treatment and some agro-physiological and biochemical parameters related to salt tolerance, such as plant biomass, water content, membrane permeability, nutrients contents, nitrate reductase and acid phosphatase activities, were measured. Results showed that increase in NaCl concentration gradually reduced plant biomass, which displayed significant differences among the tested populations. Thus, Tata population appeared to be the most tolerant population to salinity, Tafilalet 1 population was the least tolerant one, while Tafilalet 2 and Demnate displayed moderate salinity tolerance. Variations in plant growth were associated with changes in physiological and biochemical parameters. Indeed, salinity caused a decrease in relative water content, perturbation of membrane permeability, and nutrients concentrations. Results also showed that salinity inhibited nitrate reductase activity in leaves of all tested populations, but acid phosphatase activity was increased in both leaves and roots of stressed plants. Salt tolerance of alfalfa populations was associated with high inorganic ion accumulation and the maintenance of membrane integrity and an adequate level in terms of nitrate reductase and acid phosphatase activities.}, Keywords = {Acid phosphatase,Biomass,Medicago sativa L,Membrane permeability,Nitrate reductase,Salt tolerance}, volume = {16}, Number = {2}, pages = {301-314}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-3539-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-3539-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Kumar, S. and Bauddh, K. and Barman, S. C. and Singh, R. P.}, title = {Organic Matrix Entrapped Bio-fertilizers Increase Growth, Productivity, and Yield of Triticum aestivum L. and Transport of NO3-, NO2-, NH4+ and PO4-3 from Soil to Plant Leaves}, abstract ={ A consortium of biofertilizers (Azotobacter chroococcum and Bacillus subtilis) was applied in conventional as well as organic matrix entrapped granular forms as sole nutrient source in two different doses for cultivation of wheat (Triticum aestivum L. cv. PBW-343). A double dose of conventional biofertilizers increased the growth of wheat plants as measured on 30, 60, 90, and 120 Days After Sowing (DAS) in terms of root and shoot length, number of roots and leaves, as well as fresh and dry weight of roots and leaves over the recommended dose (0.6 kg ha-1) of the same biofertilizers. The entrapment of biofertilizers in an organic matrix further increased the efficacy of these biofertilizers over the non-entrapped conventional forms. An increase in the plant growth of wheat by application of higher dose of biofertilizers and entrapped biofertilizers was correlated to the availability of NO3-, NO2- and NH4+ in the plant’s rhizosphere (0-15 cm) and its transport from soil to the plant leaves as well as productivity and yield of wheat in these experimental fields. The increase of 63.47 and 32.17% in wheat yield was recorded in 120-days old plants by the application of organic matrix entrapped biofertilizers in double dose over no fertilizers and un-entrapped biofertilizers in single dose. The results indicate that efficacy of biofertilizers can be enhanced by increasing the dose of biofertilizers and by providing suitable carriers to replace chemical fertilizers load for wheat cultivation with eco-friendly and organic nutrient technologies.}, Keywords = {Azotobacter chroococcum,Bacillus subtilis,Entrapped biofertilizers,Slow release fertilizers,Triticum aestivum L}, volume = {16}, Number = {2}, pages = {315-329}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-8848-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-8848-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Sankhon, A. and Amadou, I. and Yao, W. and Wang, H. and Qian, H. and Mlyuka, E.}, title = {Effect of Different Heat-moisture Treatments on the Physicochemical Properties of African Locust Bean (Parkia biglobosa) Starches}, abstract ={Parkia biglobosa starch was subjected to different heat-moisture treatment (HMT) at different moisture contents (15, 20, 25, and 30%) at 110oC for 16 hours. The content of resistant starch (RS) was the lowest (33.38%) in the untreated native Parkia and increased in the samples with HMT-15 (37.79%), HMT-30 (39.64%), HMT-25 (46.63%), and HMT-20 (50.14%), showing significant increase (P < 0.05) in RS following the HMT. There was a reduction in the swelling power and pasting properties of HMT starches, but the solubility of the HMT starches was higher than that of untreated native starch. Differential scanning calorimetry and the changes in the X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns confirmed the effect of HMT on Parkia starch. Therefore, replacing native Parkia with heat-moisture treated Parkia starch leads to the development of new products from RS-rich powder with high RS levels and functional properties.}, Keywords = {African locust bean,differential scanning calorimetry,Digestibility,Physical treatment,Starch solubility,X-ray diffraction pattern}, volume = {16}, Number = {2}, pages = {331-342}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-6599-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-6599-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Salmanian, S. and SadeghiMahoonak, A. R. and Alami, M. and Ghorbani, M.}, title = {Phenolic Content, Antiradical, Antioxidant, and Antibacterial Properties of Hawthorn (Crataegus elbursensis) Seed and Pulp Extract}, abstract ={The hawthorn fruits have been used as food and medicine for centuries. In the present study, pulp and seed extract of Crataegus elbursensis Rech. F. fruits belonging to the family Rosaceae and native of northern part of Iran were evaluated for the polyphenol contents, antiradical, antioxidant, and antibacterial activities. The total phenolic, flavonoid, and anthocyanin contents of methanolic pulp extract were found to be more than those of methanolic seed extract. The DPPH radical scavenging, iron (III) reducing capacity, and total antioxidant activity of the extracts depended on concentration. A 200 μg ml-1 of C. elbursensis pulp and seed extract and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) exhibited 82.13, 83.47, and 85.44% inhibition, respectively. However, effect of the extracts in the total antioxidant activity and reducing power were not significantly as good as BHT. In addition, the results showed that both pulp and seed extract had inhibitory activity against the four bacteria tested, with the pulp extract showing more activity than the seed extract. Also, phenolic acids were identified by RP-HPLC and chlorogenic acid was the predominant phenolics in the samples. In conclusion, our results showed that C. elbursensis pulp and seed extract had strong antioxidant and antibacterial activities, which were correlated with its high level of polyphenols.}, Keywords = {DPPH radical,Flavonoid,HPLC,Polyphenolics,Total Antioxidant Capacity}, volume = {16}, Number = {2}, pages = {343-354}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-2223-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-2223-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Majzoobi, M. and Beparva, P. and Farahnaky, A. and Badii, F.}, title = {Physicochemical Properties of Cross-linked Wheat Starch Affected by L-Ascorbic Acid}, abstract ={There is some evidence on the effects of organic acids on the functional properties of native starches. However, there is little information on such effects on modified starches. The main objective of this study was to determine the effects of L-ascorbic acid (150 mg kg-1, as the permitted level in bakery products) on functional properties of cross-linked wheat starch. Once the starch was treated with L-ascorbic acid, some spots and cracks appeared on the surface of the starch granules, as observed under a scanning electron microscope. Besides, the water solubility increased while water absorption decreased, but intrinsic viscosity of the samples, as determined by a U-tube viscometer, remained unchanged. Also, gelatinization temperature and enthalpy of gelatinization, measured by differential scanning calorimetery, as well as the hardness and elasticity of the starch gels decreased, while adhesiveness and cohesiveness of the gels remained unaffected. In general, it was concluded that the ascorbic acid had some degradation effect on cross-linked wheat starch molecules that could further affect its functional properties.}, Keywords = {Cereal starch,Modified Starch,Vitamin C,Organic acid}, volume = {16}, Number = {2}, pages = {355-364}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-6537-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-6537-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Wang, R. and Zheng, X. and Xu, X.}, title = {Evidence for Physiological Vascular Occlusion in Stems of Cut Gerbera cv. Hongyan}, abstract ={The aim of this paper was to assess the effect of catechol (CH), as a peroxidase inhibitor, and 8-hydroxyquinoline citrate (HQC), as a bacterial inhibitor, on keeping the quality of Gerbera Jamesonii cv. Hongyan cut flowers, known to be limited by vascular occlusion. Blockage in the stem xylem vessels of cut gerbera was studied using light and scanning electron microscope. The results showed that some stem xylem vessels of the cut flowers were blocked during the vase period, and the blockage consisted of some amorphous or physiological deposition and rod-shaped bacteria located within the 5cm stem end of the cut flower. In addition, CH (1.0mM) or 8-HQC (0.45mM) decreased the blockage of stems and reduced the bacterial growth in the vase solution, but extended the vase life without statistical significance. The combination of CH (0.5 or 1.0 mM) and 8-HQC (0.45mM) decreased the blockage and inhibited the bacteria more than CH or 8-HQC alone, and extended the vase life significantly (P≤ 0.05).}, Keywords = {Cut flowers,Catechol,Gerbera jamesonii,Bacterium inhibitor,Vase life,Xylem blockage}, volume = {16}, Number = {2}, pages = {365-372}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-6028-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-6028-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Faramarzi, Sh. and Yadollahi, A. and Soltani, B. M.}, title = {Preliminary Evaluation of Genetic Diversity among Iranian Red Fleshed Apples Using Microsatellite Markers}, abstract ={Red fleshed apples have high levels of anthocyanins in their flesh. Iran enjoys a large variety of these apples due to its location in Central Asia. In the present study, 20 genotypes including eight Iranian red fleshed and 12 commercial Iranian and foreign apples were selected for the study of genetic diversity of red fleshed apples. We used a set of 11 microsatellite markers (SSRs) to determine genetic diversity and the linkage between these SSRs and red fleshed color. Seven SSRs were amplified and revealed adequate performance. On the whole, 56 alleles were detected ranging from 3 to 11, with an average of 8 alleles per locus. Cluster analysis was performed by the UPGMA algorithm and Dice similarity coefficient through NTSYS-pc ver. 2.02 software. The obtained dendrogram classified the studied genotypes into seven categories. Heterozygosity and Shannon Index were estimated using POPGEN 1.32 software. The genetic diversity for the two populations (Iranian and foreign) were calculated using Gene Alex ver. 6.3 software. These findings can be helpful for conservation and selection of these genetic resources and future breeding programs.}, Keywords = {Dice similarity coefficient,Diversity,Malus,Red fleshed apple,SSR}, volume = {16}, Number = {2}, pages = {373-384}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-5597-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-5597-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {GarcíaDeNiz, D. A. and Esquivel, G. L. and Montoya, R. B. and ArrietaRamos, B. G. and Santiago, G. A. and GomezAguilar, J. R. and SaoJose, A. R.}, title = {Vegetative and Reproductive Development of ‘Ataulfo’ Mango under Pruning and Paclobutrazol Management}, abstract ={Pruning of the plant canopy and paclobutrazol application to the root zone are agronomic practices that improve harvest yield in mango (Mangifera indica L.) orchards. To assess the effect of pruning and paclobutrazol treatment on the vegetative and reproductive development of ‘Ataulfo’ mango, three pruning dates (20 April, 20 May, and 20 June) and three concentrations of paclobutrazol (PBZ) (7.5, 11.25, and 15 mL of active ingredient) were used. While control trees presented only one vegetative growth during the productive cycle, trees that were pruned and treated with PBZ had up to three vegetative growth cycles before flowering, regardless of whether pruning occurred in April, May, or June. The number of vegetative shoots and inflorescences (m-2) were equal when trees were pruned and PBZ was applied. When pruning was performed in April or May, the time of harvest occurred 28 days earlier compared to the control. Pruning in April numerically resulted in the greatest production efficiency (7-11 kg m-2). For all the three pruning dates, fruit production of trees treated with PBZ and pruning was from 38 to 98 kg; these values were always less than those obtained for the control trees. The greatest incidence of seedless fruits (57-80%) occurred when pruning was performed in June.}, Keywords = {Fruit growth flowering,Forced production,Growth inhibitor,Seedless fruit}, volume = {16}, Number = {2}, pages = {385-393}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-5051-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-5051-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Nie, W. B. and Fei, L. J. and Ma, X. Y.}, title = {Applied Closed-end Furrow Irrigation Optimized Design Based on Field and Simulated Advance Data}, abstract ={Closed-end furrows are commonly used to irrigate crop in northern part of China. The irrigation performance of furrow in this area is often low. The objectives of this paper are to verify reliability of infiltration parameters and Manning roughness estimated with SIPAR_ID software and present an optimized method for design of closed-end furrow system. The study consisted of field experiments and numerical simulation. Field experiments were conducted in two villages of Yangling district in October 2007. Infiltration parameters and Manning roughness values were estimated with SIPAR_ID software. The estimated values were put into the WinSRFR software, and then the advance trajectory, flow depths in the upstream, and irrigation performance were simulated on each test furrow. The results showed that the simulated values with the WinSRFR software were in excellent agreement with the measured data. Therefore, the infiltration parameters and Manning roughness estimated with SIPAR_ID software were reliable. Later, an optimized model for design of closed-end furrow irrigation system was proposed, based on field data and using the project of Uniform design and the WinSRFR software. Its solution required the use of optimized methodology with genetic algorithm (GA), and the inflow discharge and cutoff time were the independent variables. The results showed that adequate and efficient irrigations can be obtained using closed-end furrows through a proper selection of inflow discharge and cutoff time.}, Keywords = {Closed-end furrow irrigation,Irrigation performance,Genetic algorithm}, volume = {16}, Number = {2}, pages = {395-408}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-3694-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-3694-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {AhmadiMoghadam, Y. and Piri, Kh. and Bahramnejad, B. and Ghiyasvand, T.}, title = {Dopamine Production in Hairy Root Cultures of Portulaca oleracea (Purslane) Using Agrobacterium rhizogenes}, abstract ={An efficient transformation system for the medicinal plant Portulaca oleracea was established using agropine-type Agrobacterium rhizogenes ATCC15834. Hairy roots were obtained directly from cotyledon leaves explants seven days after inoculation with the bacteria. The highest transformation efficiency was obtained from cotyledon leaves explants, and amounted to 53.3% within two weeks. Roots grew rapidly on solid growth regulator free ½ Murashige and Skoog medium and demonstrated characteristics of transformed roots such as fast growth and high lateral branching. Successful and stable transfer of rolB gene was illustrated by PCR using specific primers of the gene. The hairy roots showed an ability to synthesize natural and medicinal product, dopamine. Elicitation of dopamine production in P. oleracea hairy roots was tested using different concentrations of methyl jasmonate (0, 100, 150, 200 μM) and salicylic acid (0, 125, 250, 500 μM), added to the hairy root cultures during the late growth phase. The results showed that the various concentrations of the methyl jasmonate significantly increased the dopamine content, but, at concentration of 100 μM, its impact was the most pronounced. Salicylic acid had no significant influence on dopamine production in hairy roots of P. oleracea.}, Keywords = {Portulaca oleracea,Agrobacterium rhizogenes,Hairy roots,Dopamine,Methyl jasmonate}, volume = {16}, Number = {2}, pages = {409-420}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-647-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-647-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Tahir, R. and Bux, H. and Kazi, A. G. and Rasheed, A. and Napar, A. A. and Ajmal, S. U. and Mujeeb-Kazi, A.}, title = {Evaluation of Pakistani Elite Wheat Germplasm for T1BL.1RS Chromosome Translocation}, abstract ={Rye (Secale cereale) chromosome 1RS harbors multiple genes including Lr26, Sr31, Yr9 and Pm8 conferring disease resistance and tolerance to abiotic stresses. The introgression of the rye 1R chromosome short arm has enormously contributed to increase of genetic diversity in wheat. Utilization of such translocations in breeding programs demands identification of wheat germplasm possessing the wheat-alien chromosome translocation. This study was designed to screen a set of 102 Pakistani wheat cultivars and candidate lines to identify the rye T1BL.1RS translocation, using cytological, biochemical, and molecular techniques. Results revealed that 12 out of the 40 wheat cultivars were found to have this alien introgression. In the National Uniform Wheat Yield Trials (NUWYT) group, 10 of 23 entries of the rainfed category were identified as carrying 1BL.1RS translocation, while 4 out of 39 genotypes were present in the irrigated category of both NUWYT crop seasons. The valuable information generated can be useful in the crop improvement programs for the production of germplasm possessing T1BL.1RS translocation, in order to enhance the genetic variability in local wheat cultivars and, also, avoid the preponderance of T1BL.1RS candidates.}, Keywords = {genetic diversity,Constitutive heterochromatin banding,Marker analysis,Mitotic counts,Rye introgression,Wheat collections}, volume = {16}, Number = {2}, pages = {421-432}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-1358-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-1358-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Sharma, P. and Sharma, V. and Kumar, V.}, title = {Genetic Diversity Analysis of Cluster Bean [Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.) Taub] Genotypes Using RAPD and ISSR Markers}, abstract ={In the present study, random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) and inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSR) markers were used to estimate genetic diversity and relationships among 35 cluster bean [Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.) Taub] genotypes. For RAPD analysis, 20 random primers were used which amplified 164 bands, 147 of which were polymorphic with an average polymorphism of 90.3%. The amplified products varied in size from 250 to 2,050 bp. For ISSR analysis, 10 primers were used which produced 105 bands, 102 of which were polymorphic (97%). The size of amplified bands ranged from 450 to 3,500 bp. The efficiency of primers in generating sufficient information for genetic diversity analysis was computed using discriminatory power (Dj), which ranged from 0.40 to 0.98 for RAPDs and 0.44 to 0.99 for ISSRs. Jaccard similarity coefficients were used to estimate the genotypic association with each other, which varied from 0.38 to 0.91 for RAPDs and from 0.20 to 0.88 for ISSRs. Cluster analysis indicated that all 35 genotypes could be distinguished by both RAPD and ISSR markers. Both of the methods (RAPD and ISSR) showed significant correlation (r= 0.69), implying their equal importance in cluster bean diversity analysis.}, Keywords = {Cluster Analysis,Discrimination Power,Polymorphism,Similarity coefficient}, volume = {16}, Number = {2}, pages = {433-443}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-12246-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-12246-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Jiang, W. and Sun, X. H. and Xu, H. L. and Mantri, N. and Lu, H. F.}, title = {Optimal Concentration of Zinc Sulfate in Foliar Spray to Alleviate Salinity Stress in Glycine soja}, abstract ={Zinc has previously been reported to alleviate salinity stress in plants. In this study, we monitored various biomass and chlorophyll fluorescence parameters to determine the optimum zinc sulfate concentration that can be used as foliar spray to alleviate salinity stress in Glycine soja. The plants subjected to a series of salinity levels (NaCl concentration of 0, 100, 200, and 300 mmol L-1), applied via the nutrient solution, were sprayed with different concentrations of zinc sulfate (0, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 µmol L-1). The results showed that the biomass and chlorophyll fluorescence parameters of seedlings were significantly affected by salt stress (P < 0.05). However, zinc sulfate sprays helped the plants to cope with the stress condition. The zinc sulfate concentrations that helped G. soja to cope with the salinity stress of 100, 200, and 300 mmol L-1 were 15 to 20, 15 to 20, and 10 to 20 µmol L-1, respectively. Lower zinc concentration was ineffective in alleviating stress and higher zinc concentration inhibited plant growth because of toxicological damage to plants. The zinc sulfate spray of 15 µmol L-1 was found to be the most appropriate at all salinity stress levels. The growth measurements such as true leaves part and dry weight of total seedlings were in agreement with the chlorophyll fluorescence parameters, indicating a visible enhancement of leaf photosynthetic activity at 10-20 µmol L-1 zinc concentrations.}, Keywords = {Biomass,Chlorophyll fluorescence parameters,Nutrients,Photosynthetic activity,Salt tolerance,soybean}, volume = {16}, Number = {2}, pages = {445-460}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-11721-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-11721-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Panahandeh, Y. and Pourjam, E. and Pedram, M.}, title = {Four New Tylenchids (Tylenchina: Nematoda) for Nematode Fauna of Iran}, abstract ={Four tylenchid species, namely, Aglenchus agricola, Malenchus exiguus, Psilenchus curcumerus, and P. terextremus are reported from Iran. The Iranian population of A. agricola is characterized by 542-659 µm long body, 10-12 µm long stylet, excretory pore at 70-87 µm distance from anterior end, prominent lateral fields, with four lines, tail of 170-198 long, and rare males with 15-20 µm long spicules. Iranian population of M. exiguus is characterized by 362-412 µm long body, 8-10 µm long stylet, lateral fields with two crenated lines, originating at mid-region of procorpus and ending at 1/3 of the tail length, PUS of 6-9 µm, tail 65-89 µm long and common males with 13-19 µm long spicules. The recovered population of P. curcumerus is characterized by having a smooth head region, 12-15 µm long stylet, presence of post-rectal sac and filiform tail with clavate terminus and the Iranian population of P. terextremus is characterized by lateral fields with crenate margins, appearing as a simple band, with two or three weakly developed bands in cross section and lateral view, respectively, median bulb anterior to the middle of the pharynx and filiform tail with rounded tip. The morphological and morphometric characters of the recovered populations and their differences and similarities with those given in the original descriptions are discussed.}, Keywords = {morphology,Morphometrics,Sabalan grasslands}, volume = {16}, Number = {2}, pages = {461-477}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-5412-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-5412-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Baten, A. and Hossain, I.}, title = {Stochastic Frontier Model with Distributional Assumptions for Rice Production Technical Efficiency}, abstract ={Efficiency in agricultural production is indicative of the efficiency level of farm households in their farming activities. Farmers in developing countries do not make use of all the potential technological resources, thus making inefficient decisions in their agricultural activities. Herein, technical efficiency in relation with the production of three types of rice crop (Boro, Aus and Aman) was evaluated, with some determinants of technical efficiency identified, in Bangladesh. It was attempted, throughout this study, to access the status of technical efficiency in rice production in Bangladesh for panel data while using the Stochastic Frontier Production Model with either of truncated normal or half-normal distributional assumptions. Both time-variant and time-invariant inefficiency effects models were estimated, one at a time. Collected data from agricultural sector pertaining to three main rice crops in Bangladesh for the period of 1980 to 2008 were made used of throughout the study. The results revealed that technical efficiency gradually increased over the reference period with the half normal distribution being found preferable to the truncated normal distribution as regards the technical inefficiency effects. The value of technical efficiency was found high for Boro rice while low for Aus in comparison with Aman rice in Bangladesh for both distributions in either of time-variant or invariant ones. It was observed that the most efficient rice production system has occurred for the case of Boro with a technical efficiency of 0.98. Yearwise mean technical efficiency increased during the reference time periods.}, Keywords = {Bangladesh rice production,Cobb-Douglas stochastic frontier model,Panel Data,Time variant and Time invariant efficiencies}, volume = {16}, Number = {3}, pages = {481-496}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-2095-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-2095-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Khan, I. and Zada, H. and Khalil, S. K. and Sharif, M. and Mahmood, Z.}, title = {Biological Control of Sugarcane Top-borer, Scirpophaga excerptalis (Walker) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) through Different Release Levels of Telenomus beneficiens (Zehntner) (Hymenoptera: Scelionidae)}, abstract ={Telenomus beneficiens is a common egg parasitoid of sugarcane top borer Scirpophaga excerptalis; however, in winter time the incidence of the parasitoid on top borer eggs is extremely low. T. beneficiens adults were released at various time durations into sugarcane plots to evaluate the parasitic potentiality of the parasitoid against sugarcane top-borer. The egg parasitoid T. beneficiens of sugarcane top borer Scirpophaga excerptalis (Walker), was released into four sugarcane plots as once, twice, thrice and quadruple time treatments to compare its parasitic potential as a biological control agent. The four releases of the adult parasitoid were made within a time interval of one month and at a rate of 500 adults per plot. Results revealed a significant control of the pest through all the four treatments. The highest mean parasitism of 42.36±10.84% and lowest mean infestation of 12.05±0.99% was recorded for the treatment of quadruple releases, followed by the triple release plot, where 41.38±10.07% of mean parasitism and 12.61±0.78% of mean infestations were observed. As for the double release plot, 26.56±3.72 and 14.46±1.92% mean parasitism and infestation were recorded respectively, whilst in the single release plot, the corresponding figures equaled to 21.94±2.98 and 16.82 ±2.38% as compared with the check plots (15.71±3.03 and 16.82±2.55 %). It is evidenced that triple release results almost coincide with the quadruple release ones, and hence the triple release of the adult parasitoid is effective enough and recommended for the control of sugarcane top borer, S. excerptalis.}, Keywords = {Parasite Telenomus beneficiens,Scirpophaga excerptalis,Sugarcane,Top-borer}, volume = {16}, Number = {3}, pages = {497-503}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-1196-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-1196-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Abbasi, A. R. and Sarvestani, R. and Mohammadi, B. and Baghery, A.}, title = {Drought Stress-Induced Changes at Physiological and Biochemical Levels in Some Common Vetch (Vicia sativa L.) Genotypes}, abstract ={Common Vetch ( Vicia sativa L.) an annual forage, belonging to the Fabaceae family is one of the highly cultivated forage legumes in Iran. Drought stress is a serious adverse factor that limits plant growth and productivity, inducing a range of physiological as well as biochemical responses in plants. It may also lead to generation of oxygen activated species which in turn result in cell destruction. In this study, physiological and biochemical responses of six common vetch genotypes to two levels of drought stress (30 and 10% left of FC) were investigated at their early growth stages. Results indicate that drought stress significantly affects the Relative Water Content (RWC), Electro Leakage (EL), photosynthetic pigments, and total carotenoids. The obtained results indicated drought induced changes in the activities of such antioxidant enzymes as Catalase, Glutathione Peroxidase and Ascorbate Peroxidase. There was also found a reverse relationship between Catalase and Ascorbate Peroxidase activities in the studied genotypes. Obtained results clearly show that there are highly genotype-dependent responses to drought stress at biochemical level in common vetch genotypes, with each genotype responding to stress in a genotype-specific manner. These results may be helpful in breeding programs related to drought stress resistance.}, Keywords = {Antioxidant enzymes,Common vetch,Drought-induced changes,Drought Stress}, volume = {16}, Number = {3}, pages = {505-516}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-812-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-812-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Tomic, D. and Stevovic, V. and Djurovic, D. and Stanisavljevic, R.}, title = {Effect of Cobalt Application on Seed Production in Red Clover (Trifolium pratense L.)}, abstract ={A field experiment involving red clover varieties K-39, K-17, Una and Viola was established on an acidic (pHH2O 4.8) soil to evaluate the effects of foliar application of cobalt (a beneficial nutrient for efficient nitrogen fixation) on seed yield, and on seed yield components. The foliar spray of the crop was carried out using cobalt nitrate [Co(NO3)2] with the treatments: one application at the intensive growth phase during the first growth, while two others during the second growth within the second year of cultivation. Seed yield and yield components were recorded from the second growth within the second year of the study. Regardless of foliar cobalt application, the varieties produced a significantly higher seed yield in 2011, when the rainfall received from the onset of flowering until seed maturation was recorded as lower than that in 2010. The foliar treatment with cobalt was in general accompanied by a positive effect on seed yield and seed yield components in all the varieties. As compared with control, a significant increase in seed yield, in the cobalt applied treatment, was obtained only in Viola, mostly due to the significant increase in flower number i.e. seed number per inflorescence. The more favorable response of Viola to foliar cobalt application may have been attributed to a greater percentage of foliage cover during the treatment, as compared with the other varieties. This suggests that foliar cobalt treatment in future studies should be performed at the early stages of development i.e. during intensive growth throughout the first and second cuts, in order to stimulate nodulation and have greater nitrogen fixation in a needed timely manner.}, Keywords = {Cobalt,Foliar spray,Moisture regime,Red clover,Seed yield,Yield components}, volume = {16}, Number = {3}, pages = {517-526}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-3701-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-3701-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Riasi, A. and Golizadeh, M. and Fathi, M. H. and Asadzadeh, N. and Taghizadeh, A.}, title = {Determination of the Nutritive Value of Unheated vs. Heat Processed Grass Pea Seed in Ruminants}, abstract ={Samples of grass pea seed (Lathyrus sativus) were prepared and analyzed for some chemical composition and as well for their anti-nutritional factors. The rumen degradability coefficients and post ruminal digestibility of dry matter and crude protein of unheated vs. oven heated samples were determined, employing in situ and in vitro techniques. Results indicated that grass pea seed contained a considerable level of crude protein (36%). The process of heating reduced (P< 0.05) tannins and Oxalyl DiAminoPropanoic acid (ODAP) content in grass pea seeds. Heat processing, especially 3 hours of heating, increased (P< 0.05) the slowly degradable fractions of the seed. Ruminal disappearance of DM and CP occurred at a lower rate (P< 0.05) for the heated grass pea seed than for the unheated seed. Heat processing did not affect the production of some such nutritional parameters (estimated through gas production method) as DOM, ME, NEL, SCFA and MP production (P> 0.05). It was concluded that grass pea seed was of a substantial potential as a protein source in ruminant nutrition with its heat processing resulting in positive effects on its DM and CP digestibility.}, Keywords = {Chemical composition,Digestibility,Heat processing,Lathyrus Sativus}, volume = {16}, Number = {3}, pages = {527-536}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-1331-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-1331-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Vahdani, N. and Moravej, H. and Rezayazdi, K. and Dehghan-Banadki, M.}, title = {Evaluation of Nutritive Value of Grass Pea Hay in Sheep Nutrition and Its Palatability as Compared with Alfalfa}, abstract ={ The nutritive value of grass pea (Lathyrus sativus L.) hay was evaluated based on its chemical composition, Gas production, fractioning of protein in CNCPS and AFRC systems, Metabolizable Energy (ME), rumen degradability through in situ technique and in vitro digestibility through Tilley and Terry method. The Crude Protein (CP), Neutral Detergent Fiber (NDF) and Acid Detergent Fiber (ADF) values of grass pea hay amounted to 232.4, 397 and 300.6 (g kg-1 DM) respectively. Condensed Tannins (CTs) and β-N-Oxalyl –L-α, β-diAmino Propionic acid (ODAP) amounted 0.2 and 11.8 (g kg-1 DM) respectively. Grass pea estimated ME ranged from 6.86 (MJ kg-1 DM) to 12.03 (MJ kg-1 DM) by different methods. Metabolizable Protein (MP) content was found 534.7 g kg-1 of CP. A high level of CP and MP content followed by a high content of ME along with a high palatability, cause grass pea to be introduced as an alternative to sheep forage in drought conditions.}, Keywords = {Condensed tannins,Grass pea,Nutritive value,ODAP,Palatability}, volume = {16}, Number = {3}, pages = {537-550}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-11883-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-11883-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Muhaghegh-Dolatabady, M. and Habibizad, J.}, title = {Sequence Characterization of Promoter Region at the Melanocortin-1 Receptor (MC1R) Gene in Karakul Sheep Breed}, abstract ={The Melanocortin-1 Receptor MC1R is encoded by the extension locus, playing a fundamental role in the determination of coat color in a number of mammalian species. However, so far there has been no report regarding the Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) of the MC1R promoter region and the potential association of its SNPs with coat color in sheep (Ovis aries). Throughout the present study, the promoter region of the MC1R gene was screened using Single Strand Conformation Polymorphism SSCP and DNA sequencing in the Karakul breed of sheep. A total of 4 distinct SSCP patterns were observed which revealed 3 novel SNPs and an insertion/deletion of 26 nucleotides upon sequence analysis in the analyzed population. In silico analysis of the MC1R promoter sequence predicted no consensus TATA-box motif at an appropriate position but detected multiple putative transcription factor binding sites for Ets, AML-1a , NF-E2, MZF1, USF, Oct-1 and GATA-1. The analysis of identified polymorphic sites also showed that the polymorphism at nucleotide position -89 relative to the start codon abolishes the USF transcription factor binding site. The SNP identified at the -100 position is located within a putative AML-1a transcription factor binding site. The insertion of 26 nucleotides at position -126 made a putative binding site for the MOK2 transcription factor. The possible functional activity of the identified genetic variations could be confirmed using gene expression analysis.}, Keywords = {Karakul sheep breed,MC1R,Promoter region,SNPs,Transcription factors}, volume = {16}, Number = {3}, pages = {551-560}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-11967-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-11967-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Saatchi, A. and Kadivar, M. and SoleimanianZad, S. and Abaee, M. S.}, title = {Application of Some Antifungal and Antioxidant Compounds Extracted from Some Herbs to Be Used in Cakes as Biopreservatives}, abstract ={It is highly desirable to employ biopreservatives of the antioxidant and antimicrobial properties to avoid the side effects associated with the use of synthetic preservatives. Cake batters containing essential oil extracts of some such Iranian native herbs as: Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis), Camel thorn (Alhagi maurorum) and Ajwain (Trachyspermum copticum), were prepared. The chemical compositions of the essential oil were determined through GC–MS experiments. The shelf lives of the cakes were estimated by TBA (ThioBarbituric Acid) along with mould count measurements at room temperature during a 6 week storage period. The results revealed that these essential oils were fully effective in retarding mould growth and fat rancidity in the cakes. It was therefore concluded that these essential oils are of the potential to be used in the food industry as promising biopreservatives.}, Keywords = {Ajwain,antifungal,Antioxidant,Cake,Camel thorn,Lemon balm}, volume = {16}, Number = {3}, pages = {561-568}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-5655-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-5655-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Majzoobi, M. and Hedayati, S. and Habibi, M. and Ghiasi, F. and Farahnaky, A.}, title = {Effects of Corn Resistant Starch on the Physicochemical Properties of Cake}, abstract ={Promotion of the dietary fiber of foods can enhance human health by reducing the risk of many serious diseases. Cakes are among the highly consumed foods but sadly of low fiber content. Therefore, increasing the fiber content in them is of great importance, and this was the aim followed in this study. Wheat flour was partially replaced at 0, 10, 20 and 30% (w/w) with corn Resistant Starch (RS), as a source of dietary fiber, and used in the production of sponge cake. Obtained results indicated that batter consistency increased while its density reduced with an increase in the level of RS. Increasing the level of RS caused an increase in cake density but a decrease in volume. Cakes became softer but their cohesiveness, springiness and chewiness reduced. They also became whiter, less reddish and less yellowish. Addition of less than 30% RS had no significant effect on the sensory attributes of the cakes. In total, it was concluded that a maximum level of RS in the sponge cake recipe to produce an acceptable product amounted to 20%.}, Keywords = {Corn resistant starch,Dietary fiber,Sponge cake}, volume = {16}, Number = {3}, pages = {569-576}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-3617-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-3617-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Al-Ghobari, H. M.}, title = {Effect of Center Pivot System Lateral Configuration on Water Application Uniformity in an Arid Area}, abstract ={ System evaluations were performed on 48 center pivots in different parts of Saudi Arabia. These systems, located on different farms in four different regions of the country, namely: Riyadh, Jouf, Qassim and Eastern regions, were evaluated to study the effect of lateral configuration on water application uniformity as regards the original vs. modified laterals. Lateral configuration modifications have been made by the local farmers through a chang of the position of the lateral and spray nozzles from the original design. Depths of water distribution along the lateral, Coefficient of uniformity (Cu) and Distribution uniformity of the low quarter (Du) were determined and compared for the original and modified laterals under field conditions. The average values of Cu for original systems ranged between 71.81 and 89.46% with an overall average of 82.69%, whereas the average values of Cu for modified systems rangingbetween 61.35 and 84.33% with an overall average of 78.05%. Also, the values of Du ranged between 54.14 and 81.81% with an overallaverage of 73.24% for the original systems, while these values for the modified systems ranging between 31.45 and 77.07% with an overall average of 66.87%. The results finally indicated that the values of uniformity for original vs. modified laterals were significantly different indicating that there existed a noticble adverse effect of center pivot lateral configuration on the uniformity of water application.}, Keywords = {Application uniformity,Center pivot,Lateral configuration,Sprinkler irrigation}, volume = {16}, Number = {3}, pages = {577-589}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-5241-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-5241-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Ebrahimian, H. and Playan, E.}, title = {Optimum Management of Furrow Fertigation to Maximize Water and Fertilizer Application Efficiency and Uniformity}, abstract ={High efficiency and uniformity of water and fertilizer application are usually, considered as the ultimate goals of an appropriate design and management of irrigation and fertigation systems. The objective followed in this paper was to present a simulation-optimization model for alternate vs. conventional furrow fertigation. Two simulation models (surface fertigation and SWMS-2D models) along with an optimization approach (genetic algorithm) were employed. Inflow discharge, irrigation cutoff and start times as well as duration of fertilizer injection were chosen as decision variables to be optimized for maximizing two objective (fitness) functions based on water and nitrate application efficiency plus uniformity. Experiments were conducted to collect field data (soil water content, soil nitrate concentration, discharge and nitrate concentration in runoff, as well as advance and recession times) in order to calibrate the simulation models. The simulation-optimization model indicated that variable and fixed alternate furrow fertigations benefited from higher water and nitrate efficiencies than the conventional furrow fertigation. However, minor differences were observed between these types of furrow irrigation regarding water and nitrate uniformity. This approach substantially improved water and nitrate application efficiency as well as uniformity, taking into account the field experimental conditions. Water and nitrate application efficiencies ranged from 72 to 88% and from 70 to 89%, respectively. Christiansen uniformity coefficients for water and nitrate varied between 80 and 90% and from 86 to 96%, respectively. A higher improvement was observed in conventional furrow fertigation than those in both alternate furrow fertigation treatments. The potential of the simulation-optimization model to improve design and management of furrow fertigation is highlighted.}, Keywords = {efficiency,Furrow fertigation,Nitrate,Optimization,Uniformity}, volume = {16}, Number = {3}, pages = {591-607}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-3691-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-3691-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Mortazavian, S. M. M. and Nikkhah, H. R. and Hassani, F. A. and Sharif-al-Hosseini, M. and Taheri, M. and Mahlooji, M.}, title = {GGE Biplot and AMMI Analysis of Yield Performance of Barley Genotypes across Different Environments in Iran}, abstract ={Twenty promising barley lines were evaluated at seven research stations in Iran, during two cropping seasons. The analysis of variance on grain yield data showed mean squares of environments, genotypes and Genotype×Environment Interaction (GEI) as significant, respectively accounting accounted for 60.38, 4.52 and 35.09% of treatment combination sum of squares. To find out the effects of GEI on grain yield, the data were subjected to Additive Main effects and Multiplicative Interaction (AMMI) and Sites Regression (SREG) GGE biplot analysis. Mega-environmental investigation is the most suitable way to utilize GEI. "Which-won-where" pattern was followed with three distinct mega-environments found in the barley assessment. Entries G5 and G6 showed general adaptability while G7 and G13 exhibited specific adaptation to Neishabour and Esfehan, respectively. Considering both techniques, genotype G1 revealed high grain yield along with yield stability. With regard to barley assessment, Esfehan was identified as a location with larger main effects interaction, making it a less predictable location for barley variety evaluation. The results finally indicated that AMMI and GGE biplot are informative methods to explore stability and adaptation pattern of genotypes in practical plant breeding and in subsequent variety recommendations. In addition, finding mega-environments help to identify the must suitable barley cultivars that can be recommended for areas within the mega-environment in either one or more test locations.}, Keywords = {adaptation,Bi-linear method,SREG,Stability analysis}, volume = {16}, Number = {3}, pages = {609-622}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-1496-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-1496-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Ali, M Y. and Rahman, M. M. and Rahman, A. and Basaglia, M. and Rahman, M. and Sultana, T. and Casella, S.}, title = {Isolation of Bacillus spp. from Soil and an Evaluation of Their Sensitivity towards Different Extracts and Essential Oils of Cumin (Cuminum cyminum L.)}, abstract ={Throughout the present study, some Bacillus spp. were isolated from soil, and the effectiveness of the medicinal plant Cuminum cyminum L.’s essential oil extracts were tested against the isolated bacteria. The Bacillus spp.were identified through 16S rDNA sequence analysis and the antibacterial activity of various organic solvent extracts as well as the essential oils of C. cyminum L. determined in vitro using agar diffusion method and Minimal Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) tests. The hydrodistilled essential oil was analyzed through GC-MS. Twenty-seven compounds representing 92.61% of the total oil were identified. Oxygenated monoterpenes and scsquiterpene hydrocarbons constituted the major components of the oil. The inhibition zones of essential oil (extracted through organic solvent) against the tested bacteria were found within the range of 14.4 to 20.2 mm. Organic extracts of C. cyminum L. also revealed a great potential of antibacterial activity against Bacillus spp. Among all the extracts, ethanol extract showed the highest activity against Bacillus megaterium with an inhibition zone of 22.9 mm and MIC value of 500 µg ml-1. In most cases, the essential oil and organic extracts exhibited either similar or higher antibacterial activity in comparison with the standard drug Erythromycin. The results finally suggest that the essential oil as well as organic extracts of C. cyminum L. can act as sources of natural antimicrobial agents with potential applications in food and pharmaceutical industries.}, Keywords = {Antibacterial activity,Bacillus spp,C. cyminum L,Extracts and essential oil}, volume = {16}, Number = {3}, pages = {623-633}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-3230-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-3230-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {NaeemAbadi, T and Keshavarzi, M and Alaee, H. and Hajnagari, H. and Hoseinava, S.}, title = {Blue Mold (Penicillium expansum) Decay Resistance in Apple Cultivars, and Its Association with Fruit Physicochemical Traits}, abstract ={Relative resistance of 43 Iranian as well as introduced apple cultivars to blue mold (Penicillium expansum) was studied within years 2010-2011. The fruit physicochemical traits were also evaluated as measures of potential resistance to decay. Local P. expansum strains were isolated from decayed apple fruits and the most aggressive isolate (5,000 spores ml-1) used as inoculum. Fruits were wound-inoculated, and after four months stored in cold storage, decay lesion diameter was recorded. Force to break epidermis, cortex firmness, Total Soluble Solids (TSS) and Titratable Acidity (TA) were determined and their correlation with decay severity detected. Based on the obtained, results significant differences were observed in decay diameters in cultivars and for both years of the study priod. Mashhad was rated as the most susceptible cultivar while Granny Smith as the most resistant one. Relatively, 11.3% of cultivars were rated as susceptible, 54.5% as moderately susceptible, 31.8% as moderately resistant, and finally 2.2% resistant. The cultivars were significantly different in all the physicochemical traits studied. Correlation studies indicated weak negative correlations between decay diameter and TSS, TA, cortex firmness as well as epidermal toughness. Cortex firmness was directly correlated with epidermal toughness and is probable to influence blue mold severity.}, Keywords = {Apple,blue mold,Penicillium expansum,Physicochemical traits}, volume = {16}, Number = {3}, pages = {635-644}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-3343-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-3343-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Ali, A. and Ahmed, M. and Nishigawa, H. and Natsuaki, T.}, title = {Identification of Tobacco Leaf Curl Virus Infecting Lonicera japonica, an Ornamental Plant Common in Japan}, abstract ={A begomovirus, tentatively named Tobacco leaf curl Japan virus-JpU (TbLCJV-JpU), was isolated from Lonicera japonica (Honeysuckle) Plants Grown in Utsunomiya showing veinal chlorosis symptoms. The TbLCJV-JpU genome with 2,761 nt showed a highest identity with TbLCJV-Jp3 and was also close to TbLCJV and as well to TbLCJV-Jp2. The overall nt identity with TbLCJV-Jp3 amounted to 92.94%, while the identities in encoded amino acid (aa) sequence of Coat Protein (CP) and putative products of AC1 and AV2 ORFs were as high as 98.05, 92.54 and 93.96%, respectively. Low sequence identities were observed in the Intergenic Region (IR) of TbLCJV-JpU as compared with TbLCJV, Ageratum yellow vein Taiwan virus-Kochi isolate and Honeysuckle yellow vein virus-Kagoshima isolates. Recombinations were detected in the 5´end (2650 to 2761) and extreme 3´ portion of the genome (220 to 350). Both regions demonstrated high identities with AYVTV-Kochi and HSYVV-Kagoshima. To the best of our knowledge this is the first report of isolation of TbLCJV from L. japonica.}, Keywords = {Begomovirus,Japan,Lonicera japonica,Tobacco leaf curl Japan virus}, volume = {16}, Number = {3}, pages = {643-653}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-942-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-942-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {AmiriMazhar, M. and Bagherian, S. A. A. and SalahiArdakani, A. and Izadpanah, K.}, title = {Nucleotide Sequence and Structural Features of Hop Stunt Viroid and Citrus Bent Leaf Viroid Variants from Blighted Citrus Plants in Kohgiluyeh–Boyerahmad Province of Iran}, abstract ={Hop stunt viroid (HSVd) isolates have been reported as the causal agent of citrus cachexia in Mazandaran Province and recently shown to be associated with yellow corky vein disease of sweet orange and split bark disorder of sweet lime in the Fars Province, Iran. In the present work isolation and partial characterization of viroids from citrus trees affected by gummy stem blight is reported from Kohgiluyeh–Boyerahmad (KB) Province of Iran. Fifteen samples of citrus trees from Dehdasht area (KB Province) showing bark necrosis, gum exudation and die-back as well as seven citrus symptompless trees from the same area were tested for the prevalence of viroids, through Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) followed by sequencing of PCR products. They were also tested for Citrus tristeza virus through Double-Antibody Sandwich Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (DAS-ELISA). Two variants of HSVd which differed from GenBank isolates in nucleotide sequence and two variants of Citrus Bent Leaf Viroid (CBLVd) were identified in any of the symptomatic samples. Moreover, a Citrus Exocortis Viroid (CEVd) was found only in symptomatic sweet lime. An HSVd isolate from KB (HSVd-bn1) was selected and used for comparison with a number of HSVd variants from Iran (Fars and Mazandaran Provinces) and the related accessions from GenBank. On the basis of nucleotide sequence and secondary structure analysis, HSVd-bn1 and HSVd-bn2 belong to non-cachexia variants of HSVd and have about 95% similarity to Citrus gummy bark viroid, a sub-species of HSVd. CTV was not detected in the diseased plants. It is yet to be determined whether bark necrosis of sweet lime and of sweet orange plants is caused solely by the associated viroid(s) or other factors are involved as well.}, Keywords = {Citrus bent leaf viroid,Citrus gummy bark,Hop stunt viroid,Phylogeny}, volume = {16}, Number = {3}, pages = {657-665}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-12125-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-12125-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {DuranZuazo, V. H. and RodriguezPleguezuelo, C. R. and CuadrosTavira, S. and FranciaMartínez, J. R.}, title = {Linking Soil Organic Carbon Stocks to Land-use Types in a Mediterranean Agroforestry Landscape}, abstract ={ In agroforestry landscapes, land use, and the associated management practices exert strong impacts upon soil organic carbon stocks. Data on the soil organic carbon were collected for different land-use types within a small watershed, El Salado, located in Lanjarón (SE Spain). Eight land-use types namely: farmland planted in olive, almond, and cereals; forest with Pinus halepensis Mill. and Pinus sylvestris L. stands; shrubland; grassland; as well as abandoned farmland were taken into consideration. Of the land-use types investigated, forest, shrubland, as well as grassland exhibited the highest average soil organic C stocks (100-63 Mg ha-1) in contrast with the abandoned farmland (28 Mg ha-1), with farmland representing a go-between situation (51-49 Mg ha-1). The environmental factors precipitation, temperature, and elevation significantly influenced (P< 0.01) the soil organic C stock, with the contents tending to be higher in mountain soils with respective intermediate values of 600-800 mm, 10-15ºC, and 1,000-1,500 m asl. Thus, the present approach offers a comparison of C-sequestration patterns as related to the land-use types in a Mediterranean agroforestry landscape, where the main challenge is to integrate the forest trees and the crops within their harmonious interacting combinations.}, Keywords = {Land-use change,Lanjarón,Semiarid hillslopes,Soil-organic carbon,SE Spain}, volume = {16}, Number = {3}, pages = {667-679}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-9969-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-9969-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Sarmast, M. and Farpoor, M. H. and Sarcheshmehpoor, M. and K.Eghbal, M.}, title = {Micromorphological and Biocalcification Effects of Sporosarcina pasteurii and Sporosarcina ureae in Sandy Soil Columns}, abstract ={Microbial calcium carbonate, by bridging sand particles, can play an important role in sand dune stability. A study was carried out on the cementation of sand grains and infilling of pore spaces by CaCO3. Two bacterial species (Sporosarcina pasteurii and Sporosarcina ureae), three reactant concentrations (0.5, 1 and 1.5M), and six reaction times (12, 24, 48, 96, 192 and 288 hours) were tested in factorial experiment. Bacterial inocula and reactant solutions were added daily to sandy soil columns (6.5 cm height and inner diameter of 7.7 cm), while precipitation of CaCO3 being investigated within 0-1.5, 1.5-3, 3-4.5 and 4.5-6 cm intervals. Chemical and micromorphological analyses revealed that CaCO3 formation, inorganic C sequestration, and depth of cementation were more profound for S. pasteurii as compared with S. ureae. Both microbial CaCO3 precipitation and inorganic C sequestration increased with increase in reaction time from 12 to 288 hours. Increase in reactant concentration also caused an increase in CaCO3 precipitation (by 12%). Micromorphological observations showed a high degree of calcite crystals’ bridging, coating on sand particles and as well infilling of pore spaces. S. pasteurii is thus recommended for being used in stabilization of sand dunes; due to its significant effects on CaCO3 deposition and as well on sand grain cementation.}, Keywords = {Biomineralization,Inorganic C sequestration,Sand dune fixation,Ureolytic bacteria}, volume = {16}, Number = {3}, pages = {681-693}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-7564-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-7564-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {MirzaeiKhalilabadi, H. R. and Chizari, A. H. and DahajipourHeidarabadi, M.}, title = {Effects of Increasing Price of Energy Carriers on Energy Consumption in Pistachio Production: Case Study in Rafsanjan, Iran}, abstract ={As one of the most important products of Iran, pistachio has a significant share in non-oil revenues. Its annual foreign exchange earnings are over 800 million dollars. However, production of this nut in the country’s major production centers is faced with many problems regarding the efficiency and productivity of the inputs. This study was performed by using two-stage cluster sampling method. The results showed that with the increase in energy carriers’ prices, the farmers of the region would tend to use the optimal amounts of inputs in the long term, thus, reducing energy consumption from 46,016.72 to 31,092 MJ ha-1. Also, the present values of energy productivity, its efficiency, and specific energy of, respectively, 0.03, 0.42, and 35.05 MJ kg-1 would be optimized to 0.07, 1.10 and 13.47 MJ kg-1. Besides, it was revealed that the net energy, which was negative under the existing condition (-26,532 MJ), would increase to 3,160 MJ following the increase in the price of energy carriers. Above all, the non-renewable energy consumption would be reduced from 39,743 to 26,457 MJ. Of course, to achieve the mentioned results, government support of farmers in the short term is necessary in order to facilitate and expedite the change in technology.}, Keywords = {Energy carriers,Input-output,Price elasticity,Pistachio production,Profit maximization}, volume = {16}, Number = {4}, pages = {697-704}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-8536-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-8536-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Mosavi, S. H. and Esmaeili, A. K. and Azhdari, S.}, title = {Evaluating Economic Effects of Exchange Rate Depreciation on the Rice Market in Iran}, abstract ={In recent years, Iran has experienced high level depreciation of the Nominal Exchange Rate (NER). The ultimate effects of such depreciation on Iranian families’ welfare and income distribution have been a challenging issue among policymakers and researchers. Accordingly, this study evaluates the economic effects of NER depreciation on the rice market, using spatial price equilibrium model. The model was calibrated for the base year 2010 and was executed using GAMS programming language and was solved by the PATH solver. The results suggested that decreasing the NER would be detrimental. Social welfare is adversely affected by depreciation of the NER. This shock would also decrease real and per capita income and increase slightly the incidence, the gap, and severity of poverty. Also, the regional effects were found to vary, depending on being a net exporter or a net importer region. Overall, this study contributes to previous studies by considering income effects and import exemptions in the model. }, Keywords = {Nominal exchange rate,Spatial price equilibrium model,Welfare}, volume = {16}, Number = {4}, pages = {705-715}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-8638-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-8638-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Dhehibi, B. and Alimari, A. and Haddad, N. and Aw-Hassan, A.}, title = {Technical Efficiency and Its Determinants in Food Crop Production: A Case Study of Farms in West Bank, Palestine}, abstract ={In this study, farm level technical efficiency (TE) and its determinants were investigated. A stochastic Cobb-Douglas (CD) production frontier was used to provide estimates of input-oriented TE for a sample of 100 rain fed farms in two Palestinian governorates. Empirical findings showed that the estimated TE of the farms in the pooled sample ranged from 35.7 to 95.6%, with a mean value of 72.2%. This suggests that, on average, farms in Jenin and Tubas can potentially increase their productivity by as much as 28% through more efficient use of inputs. Analysis of the main determinants of TE suggested a positive relationship between farmers’ level of education, experience, access to credit and extension services, and membership in a cooperative. We argue that access to credit and strengthening of capacity within the national extension system are critical areas of public policy concern in order to affect levels of agricultural production and productivity in the West Bank.}, Keywords = {Cobb-Douglas stochastic frontier model,Cross section data,Palestine,Rainfed farms}, volume = {16}, Number = {4}, pages = {717-730}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-5941-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-5941-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Rajput, A. Q. and Khanzada, M. A. and Shahzad, S.}, title = {Effect of Different Organic Substrates and Carbon and Nitrogen Sources on Growth and Shelf Life of Trichoderma harzianum}, abstract ={Nine organic substrates viz., rice grains, sorghum grains, wheat grains, millet grains, wheat straw, rice husk, cow dung, sawdust, and poultry manure were used for mass multiplication of Trichoderma harzianum. Of these,sorghum grains followed by millet grains were the best substrates. The poultry manure appeared to be the most unsuitable substrate, whereas rice grains, wheat grains, wheat straw, and rice husk performed moderately well. Sucrose was the best carbon source and supported the highest colony growth of T. harzianum on Czapek’s Agar plates. Similarly, ammonium nitrate at 3,000 ppm appeared to be the most suitable nitrogen source and produced the highest colony growth as well as abundant conidia. A combined use of sucrose at 30,000 ppm as carbon source, and ammonium nitrate at 3,000 ppm as nitrogen source significantly enhanced the mycelial growth and conidial production by T. harzianum in wheat straw, rice husk, and millet grains, whereas, in sorghum grains and rice grains, the addition of carbon and nitrogen sources showed negative effect on sporulation of T. harzianum. Studies on shelf life of the inocula multiplied on various substrates showed that the populations of T. harzianum on all the substrates achieved the peak at 60-75 days incubation period and declined gradually thereafter. However, even after 330 days, the populations were greater than the population at 0-day. At 345-360 days interval, population was found to be less than the initial population at 0-day.}, Keywords = {Biocontrol agent,Mass multiplication,shelf life,Trichoderma harzianum}, volume = {16}, Number = {4}, pages = {731-745}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-9008-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-9008-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Golshan, H. and Saber, M. and Majidi_Shilsar, F. and Karimi, F. and Ebadi, A.}, title = {Laboratory Evaluation of Beauveria bassiana Isolates on Red Flour Beetle Tribolium castaneum and Their Characterization by Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA}, abstract ={Beauveria bassiana (Balsamo) Vuillemin is an important natural regulator of insect populations. Identification of a suitable molecular marker for detecting a virulent phenotype on a target pest would be useful in screening for effective isolates against the pest. Nine isolates of B. bassiana were tested for their virulence to adults of Tribolium castaneum (Herbst) in laboratory bioassay with 1×108 conidia mL-1. DNA markers provide more detailed genomic information.DNA fingerprints were generated by RAPD markers. Fungal DNA was extracted by CTAB. Twelve random oligonucleotide primers were used for amplification. After bioassay, three arbitrary categories of isolates were chosen i.e. isolates that caused > 45%, 45-30% and < 30% mortality, and were classified as highly (H), moderately (M), and less (L) virulent isolates based on average mortality, respectively. Also, based on LT50 values, three arbitrary categories were chosen i.e. isolates with < 80 h, 80-100 h and > 100 h LT50 values, and were classified as highly (H), moderately (M), and less (L) virulent isolates, respectively. The results of bioassay showed that isolates IRAN 440C and DEBI 004 were the causative agents of mycoses with the highest and lowest lethal effect, respectively. The lowest LT50 value was related to DEBI 014. Cluster analysis of the RAPD data showed four clusters according to similarity, following cluster analysis using the Jaccard similarity coefficient and clustering was done using un-weighted pair group method with arithmetic (UPGMA). The results showed that there was genetic diversity between these isolates, but the groups based on virulence rating and LT50 values did not match with the RAPD clusters completely.}, Keywords = {entomopathogenic fungus,Virulence,bioassay,Tribolium castaneum,RAPD analysis}, volume = {16}, Number = {4}, pages = {747-758}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-5419-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-5419-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Khatam, A. and Muhammad, S. and Ashraf, I.}, title = {Perceived Effect of Farmers Field School Approach on Capacity Building in Controlling Pre and Post Harvest Losses}, abstract ={The present study was conducted in the central region of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), Pakistan comprising seven districts: Peshawar, Charsadda, Nowshera, Mardan, Swabi, Kohat and Hangu, during 2010. The objective was to analyze the perceived effect of Farmer Field School (FFS) approach on farmers’ capacity in controlling pre- and post- harvest losses. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data collected from 280 randomly selected farmer respondents. The analysis revealed that FFS had remarkably built up farmers’ capacity in controlling pre and post-harvest losses caused by rodents, birds, immature harvesting/picking, and inappropriate packing, storing, and transportation of the produce. Furthermore, FFS helped farmers in reducing losses at the market and controlling grain borer, wheat weevil, and store weevils effectively. The study concluded that the highest improvement as a result of FFS activities was in controlling losses by rodents, proper packaging and labeling of the produce, and controlling some stored grain pests like grain borer and wheat weevil. By and large, farmers’ capacity was built up in almost all aspects of controlling pre- and post-harvest losses, except a few i.e. losses due to immature harvesting of crops, and controlling losses caused by store insects, which needed special focus of the authorities concerned. }, Keywords = {Controlling crop losses,Farmers’ Capacity building,Farmers’ training,FFS extension approach,Immature harvesting}, volume = {16}, Number = {4}, pages = {759-765}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-7498-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-7498-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Farjam, A. and Omid, M. and Akram, A. and FazelNiari, Z.}, title = {A Neural Network Based Modeling and Sensitivity Analysis of Energy Inputs for Predicting Seed and Grain Corn Yields}, abstract ={In this study, several artificial neural networks (ANNs) were developed to estimate seed and grain corn yields in Parsabad Moghan, Iran. The data was collected by a face-to-face interview method from 144 corn farms during 2011. The energy ratios for seed and grain corns were calculated as 0.89 and 2.65, respectively. Several multilayer perceptron ANNs with six neurons in the input layer and one to three hidden layers with different number of neurons in each layer and one neuron (seed or grain corn yield) in the output layer was developed and tested. Energy inputs including fertilizers, biocides, seeds, human labor, diesel fuel and machinery were considered as explanatory variables for the input layer. The best model for predicting seed and grain corn yields had 6-4-8-1 and 6-3-9-1 topologies, respectively. Model output value associated with the actual output had coefficient of determination (R2) values of 0.9998 and 0.9978 for seed and grain corn, respectively. The corresponding regression models had R2 values of 0.987 and 0.982, respectively. Sensitivity analysis showed that in seed corn production, diesel fuel and machinery, and in grain corn, diesel fuel and seeds consumption have the greatest effect on production yield.}, Keywords = {Artificial Neural Networks,Corn production,Energy input,Regression,Sensitivity analysis}, volume = {16}, Number = {4}, pages = {767-778}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-5916-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-5916-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Khayamim, S. and TavkolAfshari, R. and Sadeghian, S. Y. and Poustini, K. and Roozbeh, F. and Abbasi, Z.}, title = {Seed Germination, Plant Establishment, and Yield of Sugar Beet Genotypes under Salinity Stress}, abstract ={It is well known that sugar beet is sensitive to salinity stress at the germination stage. Three separate experiments were conducted to study the effects of salinity on seed germination, plant establishment, and yield of sugar beet genotypes for screening purposes. These included: (a) A laboratory study using four water salinity levels (with EC values < 0.1 as the control, 16, 20, and 24 dS m-1) with 20 sugar beet genotypes, which were evaluated in a factorial completely randomized design with four replications, and seedling characteristics were measured; (b) A greenhouse experiment where the same statistical design as the lab study was used for seed germination and establishment of 19 sugar beet materials, with irrigation water EC= 3 and 16 dS m-1; and (c) A field experiment that was carried out to study the response of nine selected genotypes to irrigation waters with EC= 4 and EC= 16 dS m-1, using a split plot design with three replications. Interaction effects of salinity and genotypes were statistically significant (α= 0.01) for percentage of germination, abnormal seedling, and root and hypocotyls lengths. Indeed, sugar beet germination decreased to 35% and dead seedlings increased to 80 % under salinity stress (EC= 16 dS m-1) in the greenhouse. Genotypes were ranked from tolerant to susceptible. The results of field experiment were consistent with that obtained in the greenhouse. It can be concluded that salt stress decreased seed germination and, later on, crop establishment by increasing dead seedlings; consequently, sugar beet yield decreased. It seems that establishment is more susceptible to salinity than germination. Root length and abnormal seedling are good indexes for screening sugar beet genotypes for salinity tolerance at the primary growth stages. }, Keywords = {Abnormal seedlings,Crop establishment,Root length,Saline irrigation water}, volume = {16}, Number = {4}, pages = {779-790}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-2487-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-2487-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {HosseiniVardanjani, S. M. and MiraeiAshtiani, S. R. and Pakdel, A. and MoradiShahrbabak, H.}, title = {Accuracy of Real-time Ultrasonography in Assessing Carcass Traits in Torki-Ghashghaii Sheep}, abstract ={The possibility of in vivo carcass trait prediction using the ultrasound measurements obtained between 12th and 13th ribs was studied. Attention was paid to several carcass traits such as carcass backfat thickness (CBFT), carcass longissimus dorsi muscle (CLMA) and carcass weight (HCW). Also, the effects of the flock, as the fixed effects, and body weight (BW), as covariate, on these traits were considered. The study was carried out on 99 lamb of Torki-Ghashghaii breed from 4 flocks. BW had significant effects (P< 0.001) on HCW, Fat-tail, CBFT, and CLMA, but had no significant effect on carcass longissimus dorsi muscle depth (CLMD) and width (CLMW). The flock had a significant effect (P< 0.0001) on HCW and CBFT, only. The correlations between ultrasound and carcass measurements, before and after adjustment for flock effect, ranged between (0.27 to 0.80) and (0.22 to 0.78), respectively. Estimates of CBFT, CLMW, CLMD and CLMA based on the corresponding ultrasound measurements explained 49%, 29%, 59%, and 64% of their variation, respectively. BW explained 57% variation of HCW and only 12% variation of Fat-tail. The introduction of two or three ultrasound measurements by stepwise procedure in the multiple regression equations improved the explanation of variation for all traits by 0.01 up to 0.13. The results indicate that ultrasound has potential for carcass traits prediction in live Torki-Ghashghaii sheep.}, Keywords = {Backfat,Correlation,Longissimus dorsi muscle,Regression,Ultrasound}, volume = {16}, Number = {4}, pages = {791-800}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-1127-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-1127-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Boustan, A. and NejatiJavaremi, A. and MoradiShahrbabak, M.}, title = {Economic and Genetic Aspects of Using Sexed Semen in Traditional and Genomic Evaluation of Iranian Holstein Dairy Cattle: A Simulation Study}, abstract ={In recent years, sexed semen has been commercially available. Due to its lower fertility and higher price compared to conventional semen, economic evaluation should be undertaken before recommending the technology to dairy producers in each country. The objectives of the present study were to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of the sexed semen usage at farm level in economic conditions of Iran based on total net present value (TNPV) and to estimate the impact of sexed semen on the rate of genetic improvement in dairy cattle population with and without using genomic information. Three relative conception rates (RCR) of sexed semen compared to the conventional semen were assumed i.e. 0.80, 0.75, and 0.70. Visual basic 6 and Excel software were used for calculations. The results showed that greater numbers of sexed semen services in heifers resulted in higher TNPV for all assumed RCRs, but for cows in parities 1 and 2, use of two sexed semen services for RCR, 0.80 and 0.75 resulted in the highest TNPV; while, for RCR= 0.70, the results indicated that using sexed semen was not economical. By using traditional evaluation, genomic evaluation with 3k chip, and genomic evaluation with 50k chip, the additional genetic gains in 305-day milk yield were, respectively, approximately 25, 34, and 38% higher than the current annual genetic progress for this trait in Iran (that is, about 53 kg per year).}, Keywords = {Economic evaluation,Genetic gain,Milk yield,Net present value}, volume = {16}, Number = {4}, pages = {801-810}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-7293-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-7293-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Zahedifar, M. and Karimi, N. and Fazaeli, H. and Mirhadi, S. A.}, title = {Optimization of Steam Treatment Conditions for Improving the Nutritive Value of Date Leaves}, abstract ={The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of steam treatment on nutritive value of date (Phoenix dactylifera) leaves. Date leaves were chopped and mixed with water or sulfuric acid solution to contain 50% moisture with or without 1% sulfuric acid. Steam treatment of the date leaves was carried out using three levels of steam pressure (14, 17 and 20 bar), three reaction times (120, 180, and 240 seconds) and two levels of acid (0 and 1 percent). The treated samples were analyzed for chemical composition including: cell wall components, ash, total extractable phenolics, water soluble sugars, and reducing sugars. Dry matter loss (DML), enzymic hydrolysis, and in vitro gas production of the samples were also measured. Results showed that steam treatment significantly affected (P< 0.05) cell wall components. An increasing trend was observed in DML by increasing harshness of treatment conditions. The lowest DML (12.7 g kg-1) was observed in the auto-hydrolyzed (steam treatment without addition of exogenous acid) sample treated at 14 bar pressure and 120 seconds reaction time and the highest DML (78.8 g kg-1) was observed in the acid-hydrolyzed (addition of 10 g kg-1acid prior to treatment) samples treated at 20 bar pressure and 180 and 240 seconds reaction times. Steam treatment significantly (P< 0.05) decreased neutral detergent fiber (NDF) content but increased acid detergent lignin (ADL). Maximum changes in hemicellulose and water soluble sugars were observed in acid-hydrolyzed samples, in which hemicellulose decreased from 264.6 g kg-1 in control to 72.2 g kg-1 in the sample treated at 20 bar and 240 seconds and water soluble sugars increased from 14.0 g kg-1 in the control to 101.8 g kg-1 in the sample treated at 17 bar and 240 seconds. Enzymic hydrolysis of date leaves was improved after steam treatment and higher improvement was observed in acid-hydrolyzed samples. Gas production was significantly increased (P< 0.05) in all incubation times after steam treatment. The maximum increase in metabolizable energy (ME) estimated by gas production was from acid-hydrolyzed sample treated at 20 bar and 240 seconds. In auto-hydrolyzed samples, the biggest increase in ME was observed in the sample treated at 20 bar and 180 seconds. The results suggest that steam treatment could be used for upgrading the nutritive value of date leaves in the regions where date is grown and animals are encountered with severe feed shortage.}, Keywords = {Chemical composition,Hemicellulose solubilization,Lignin depolymerization,Enzymic hydrolysis,in vitro gas production}, volume = {16}, Number = {4}, pages = {811-825}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-12222-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-12222-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {KhakbazHeshmati, M. and Shahedi, M. and Hamdami, N. and Hejazi, M. A. and Motalebi, A. A. and Nasirpour, A.}, title = {Mathematical Modeling of Heat Transfer and Sterilizing Value Evaluation during Caviar Pasteurization}, abstract ={In this study, a numerical model was developed to investigate the two-dimensional heat transfer in a homogenous finite cylinder to predict the local temperature and sterilizing value during caviar pasteurization. A fixed grid finite difference method was used in the solution of heat transfer equations according to Crank-Nicolson’s scheme. The model was validated by comparison of the experimental temperature profiles during caviar pasteurization with the model predicted values (Correlation Coefficient> 0.99 and Root Mean Square Errors< 0.61ºC). The cold spot location was at the radial center between the middle and top of the jar on the vertical axis. For caviar pasteurization, the required heating time for cold spot to reach the desired F-value (= 0.19 min) was 128 minutes at 55°C and 37.63 minutes at 65°C. The results indicated that the developed model could be successfully applied to simulate the caviar thermal processing.}, Keywords = {Crank-Nicolson’s scheme,Thermal lethality}, volume = {16}, Number = {4}, pages = {827-839}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-4165-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-4165-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Aghnoum, M. and Feghhi, J. and Makhdoum, M. and JabbarianAmiri, B.}, title = {Assessing the Environmental Impacts of Forest Management Plan Based on Matrix and Landscape Degradation Model}, abstract ={Management of the forest resources and related activities has significant effects on the environment. Applying the environmental impact assessment (EIA) provides a basis for improving forest management plans. However, in the developing countries such as Iran, there have been so far no serious endeavors and research to undertake the EIA of the various practices affecting the forest resources, despite the enormous negative impacts of forestry practices on environmental quality. Hence, the main objective of the present study was to address the effects of the human activities on forest ecosystem and their consequences, and to assess the environmental quality of Patom Forest Management Plan through the application of landscape degradation model (LDM) and the matrix method. Decision making based on LDM indicated that all compartment of Patom District have high degradation coefficient and need rehabilitating practices. Furthermore, application of the matrix method revealed that forest roads, logging operations, and other activities needed modification and mitigation plans. Also, forestry activities have had 25.8 and 35.5% positive impacts and consequences in contrast with 74.2 and 64.5% negative impact and consequences on the environment. Hence, in order to improve forest management plans and reduce the negative effects of forestry activities in Iran, forest managers should apply environmental impact assessment with quantitative EIA instruments before the design and implementation of the forest management plans and forestry activities.}, Keywords = {Degradation coefficient,EIA,Matrix method,Patom forest management plan}, volume = {16}, Number = {4}, pages = {841-850}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-5194-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-5194-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Amjad, M. and Akhtar, J. and Anwar-ul-Haq, M. and Ahmad, R. and Zaid, M.}, title = {Characterization of Comparative Response of Fifteen Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) Genotypes to NaCl Stress}, abstract ={A solution culture experiment was conducted to evaluate the salinity tolerance of 15 tomato genotypes in Hoagland’s nutrient solution with three levels of NaCl (0, 75, and 150 mM). The experiment was conducted in completely randomized design with three replicates. After 30 days of imposition of salt stress, gas exchange parameters including transpiration rate, stomatal conductance, CO2 assimilation rate, and intercellular CO2 concentration were recorded and the harvested plants were characterized for growth (shoot/ longest root lengths and fresh/dry weights) and ionic characteristics (Na+, K+ and K+/Na+ ratio) parameters. All growth and gas exchange parameters decreased with increasing NaCl concentrations. However, this decrease was less in salt-tolerant genotypes as compared to salt-sensitive genotypes. It was also observed that with the increasing NaCl concentration in the rooting medium, the amount of Na+ in the plant tissues increased while the amount of K+ ion decreased. Thus, it was concluded that the plants with more K+ absorbing ability, with high K+/Na+ ratio, and higher growth were more salt-tolerant. Also, the results showed that fresh and dry weights, gas exchange characteristics, and K+/Na+ ratio were very effective in determining salt tolerance of tomato. Considering the genotypes, Indent-1 and Nagina were characterized as salt tolerant and the Red Ball and Peto-86 as salt sensitive under saline conditions.}, Keywords = {Salinity tolerance,K+/Na+,Photosynthesis,Growth}, volume = {16}, Number = {4}, pages = {851-862}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-5880-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-5880-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Polat, A. A. and Çalışkan, O.}, title = {Fruit Set and Yield of Apricot Cultivars under Subtropical Climate Conditions of Hatay, Turkey}, abstract ={Apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.) is a species particularly prone to erratic fruit set, and its flower bud drop has been repeatedly reported in different cultivars and growing conditions. A number of potential causes have been explored, but a clear main cause remains elusive. In this study, fruit set was determined for 11 apricot cultivars (‘Precoce de Tyrinthe’, ‘Feriana’, ‘Beliana’, ‘Priana’, ‘Bebeco’, ‘Early Kishinewski’, ‘Precoce de Colomer’, ‘Canino’, ‘Silistre Rona’, ‘Rouge de Sernhac’ and ‘Tokaloglu’) grown on the coast of the Mediterranean region of Turkey from 2006 to 2008. Trees budded on apricot seedlings and planted 6×6 m in 1997. On four branches of each tree randomly selected from all four directions, blossom number, percentage of initial and final fruit set, and yield per tree were determined during the experimental period. Fruit set differed significantly depending on year and cultivar. Based on three-year averages, percentage of fruit set was highest on ‘Tokaloglu’ (14%), followed by ‘Beliana’ (8.8%) and ‘Precoce de Tyrinthe’ (8.2%). The lowest fruit set (2.3%) was in ‘Early Kishinewski’ and ‘Canino’. High yields per tree were found in Tokaloglu’ (29.1 kg), ‘Precoce de Tyrinthe’ (29.0 kg), ‘Rouge de Sernhac’ (27.9 kg), and ‘Beliana’ (23.0 kg). ‘Tokaloglu’, ‘Beliana’, ‘Precoce de Tyrinthe’, and ‘Rouge de Sernhac’ cultivars showed good performance for both fruit set and yield per tree under subtropical climate conditions. However, findings of this study also suggested that fruit set and fruit drops in apricots should be assessed together with total yield amounts by years. The influence of the cultivar on fruit yield was more determinant than the seasonal effect.}, Keywords = {Dormancy,Flowering,Productivity,Prunus armeniaca L}, volume = {16}, Number = {4}, pages = {863-872}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-3058-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-3058-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Petropoulos, S. A. and Olympios, C. and Ropokis, A. and Vlachou, G. and Ntatsi, G. and Paraskevopoulos, A. and Passam, H. C.}, title = {Fruit Volatiles, Quality, and Yield of Watermelon as Affected by Grafting}, abstract ={The aim of the present study was to examine the effect of grafting of watermelon hybrids ‘Obla F1’ and ‘Vanessa F1’ on to Cucurbita maxima × Cucurbita moschata rootstock TZ 148 and Lagenaria sp. rootstock ‘Dias F1’, on the volatiles and yield of fruit and the plant growth. Fruit volatiles analysis showed the presence of two aldehydes, namely (E)-2-nonenal and (E,Z)-2,6-nonadien-1-al, with (E)-2-nonenal being present at higher concentrations in grafted than in un-grafted plants. Grafted plants had also higher growth rate, total yield, and fruit number than un-grafted plants, whereas the percent dry matter of leaves and shoots was higher in ungrafted plants. No differences were observed for mean fruit weight, fruit shape, and rind thickness. Fruit from grafted plants had more compact flesh and less acid fruit juice than fruit from ungrafted plants. Fruit volatile components differed between ungrafted and grafted plants. With regards to sugar content, no significant differences between grafted and ungrafted plants were observed, except in the case of ‘Obla F1’ hybrids. Sodium concentration of plant tissues and fruit was higher in ‘Obla F1’ ungrafted plants, as well as carotenoid, lycopene, and vitamin C content in fruit, but only in the second year. In conclusion, rootstock-scion combination implemented in the present study affected plant growth and fruit yield and quality, rendering the choice of rootstocks and scions of major importance in order to achieve the highest yield and quality of watermelon fruit.}, Keywords = {Citrullus vulgaris L,Obla F1 hybrid,Vanessa F1 hybrid,Volatiles profile}, volume = {16}, Number = {4}, pages = {873-885}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-7623-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-7623-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {GarciaTejero, I. F. and DuranZuazo, V. H. and Perez-Alvarez, R. and Hernandez, A. and Casano, S. and Moron, M. and Muriel-Fernandez, J. L.}, title = {Impact of Plant Density and Irrigation on Yield of Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) in a Mediterranean Semi-arid Environment}, abstract ={Within the context of climate change, water scarcity is the major constraint to the viability of many crops. Thus, it is necessary to develop strategies for sustainable water management, and introduce alternative crops to sustain the viability of agro-ecosystems. The main objective of this work was to assess the performance of hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) subjected to different plant densities and irrigation. Two cultivars (Carma and Ermes) were tested at three plant densities i.e. 40,000, 20,000, and 10,000 plants ha-1, under two irrigation regimes: i) fully irrigated with total water supply equal to 100% of ETc; and ii) deficit irrigation with 80% of ETc. The experimental design was a split-split plot with four replications per combination. At harvest, yield and its components (weight, plant height, stem diameter, and the weight of leaves and flowers relative to the stem weight) were evaluated. Also, the production of chemical compounds for medical use (terpenoids, and fatty acids Omega 3 and 6) were analyzed. The results showed that cv. Carma was the most appropriate in agricultural terms, with a yield significantly higher than cv. Ermes. In terms of plant density, 40,000 and 20,000 plants ha-1 gave the best results for yield, without significant impact by irrigation rates. Regarding the capability of these varieties to produce relevant chemicals, cv. Ermes yielded higher amounts than did cv. Carma. This work offers a preliminary assessment for hemp cultivation in Andalusia (SW Spain), with important potential under local agro-climatic conditions.}, Keywords = {Carma,Ermes,Omega 6,Omega 3,Terpenoids,water stress}, volume = {16}, Number = {4}, pages = {887-895}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-9987-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-9987-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Yildiz, E. and Kaplankiran, M. and Demirkeser, T. Hakan and Toplu, C. and Uysal-Kamiloglu, M.}, title = {Performance of \'‘Rio Red’\' Grapefruit on Seven Rootstocks in the Eastern Mediterranean Region of Turkey}, abstract ={The effects of rootstocks such as 'sour orange' (Citrus aurantium L. var. ‘Yerli’), 'Carrizo' and 'Troyer citranges' (Citrus sinensis Osb. x Poncirus trifoliata Raf), 'Smooth Flat Seville sour orange' (Citrus spp. hybrid of uncertain origin), 'Brazilian sour orange' (Citrus aurantiam L. var. ‘Brasilian’), 'Volkameriana' (Citrus volkameriana Tan. and Pasq.) and 'Calamondin' (possibly Citrus reticulate var. austere×Fortunella hybrid, Swingle) on plant growth, fruit yield, and quality of ‘Rio Red’ grapefruit were investigated from 2008 to 2012. Rootstocks were found to have significant effects on plant growth, fruit yield, and quality. ‘Rio Red’ grapefruit trees budded on 'Carrizo' and 'Troyer citranges' showed higher vegetative growth parameters (canopy height, diameter, and volume) than the trees on the other rootstocks. The trees on 'Volkameriana' and 'Carrizo citrange' produced higher percentage of cumulative yield of about 55.1 and 34.3%, respectively, than the trees on 'sour orange'. ‘Rio Red’ grapefruit budded on 'Carrizo citrange' had higher fruit quality such as thin rind, high juice content, and more color development than the other rootstocks. 'Carrizo citrange' was the most promising rootstock for ‘Rio Red’ grapefruit in Dörtyol, Eastern Mediterranean region of Turkey.}, Keywords = {Citrus paradisi,Fruit yield,fruit quality,Plant growth,Rootstocks}, volume = {16}, Number = {4}, pages = {897-908}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-1543-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-1543-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Akbarpour, O. and Dehghani, H. and Sorkhi, B. and Gauch,Jr., H. G.}, title = {Evaluation of Genotype×Environment Interaction in Barley (Hordeum Vulgare L.) Based on AMMI model Using Developed SAS Program}, abstract ={Understanding the implication of genotype-by-environment interaction (GEI) and improving stability of crop yield in a target production environment is important in plant breeding. In this research, we used the AMMI (Additive Main Effects and Multiplicative Interaction) model to identify the stable genotype(s) by predictive accuracy of yield data. Results of this study indicated that the FGH tests were useful to identify the best truncated AMMI model. In general, FGH1 and FGH2 tests had similar results. The findings of this study confirmed that the AMMI-4 was the best truncated AMMI model to distinguish the general and specific stability of genotypes across environments for recommending them to farmers. Based on AMMI-4 yield prediction, G15 and G17 were identified as useful genotypes for some environments, while G14 was found as a stable genotype in all environments.}, Keywords = {F-test,stability,Truncated AMMI model,Yield prediction}, volume = {16}, Number = {4}, pages = {909-920}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-1523-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-1523-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Nasiri-Bezenjani, M. A. and Riahi-Madvar, A. and Baghizadeh, A. and Ahmadi, A. R.}, title = {Rosmarinic Acid Production and Expression of Tyrosine Aminotransferase Gene in Melissa officinalis Seedlings in Response to Yeast Extract}, abstract ={Effects of yeast extract (YE) (0, 0.05, 0.1, 0.2, 0.5 and 1%) were investigated on rosmarinic acid (RA) accumulation and tyrosine aminotransferase (TAT) gene expression in Melissa officinalis seedlings at different time intervals (4 and 17 hours). Based on the results, only YE concentrations of 0.05%, 0.1%, and 0.2%, for the 17-hour treatment, significantly stimulated RA biosynthesis pathway. At this elicitation time, flavonoid content and TAT gene expression significantly increased by the increase in YE concentration up to 0.2% as compared to the control. The maximum amount for both of them was seen at 0.1% YE treatment, where the RA accumulation was drastically elevated. Furthermore, the aerial parts were improved when root lengths were decreased; this was observed in seedlings that were treated by YE for 30 days. Overall, these observations can be attributed to the oxidative stress induced by YE, as a consequence of its uptake by the plant, as revealed by increasing activities in superoxide dismutase and catalase.}, Keywords = {Antioxidant enzyme activity,flavonoids,Elicitor,Morphological properties}, volume = {16}, Number = {4}, pages = {921-930}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-29-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-29-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Mirtalebi, M. and Banihashemi, Z.}, title = {Genetic Relationship among Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. melonis Vegetative Compatibility Groups and Their Relatedness to Other F. oxysporum formae speciales}, abstract ={Fusarium wilt of melon is a destructive fungal disease throughout the world. In this study, the evolutionary relationships among isolates of different formae speciales of Fusarium oxysporum was examined, with a special emphasis on the forma specialis melonis. Bootstrapped maximum likelihood analysis of the elongation factor-1α (EF-1α) sequence was conducted on 16 Iranian and 11 foreign isolates of F. o. melonis that included representatives of different vegetative compatibility groups (VCGs 0130-0136). The tree inferred from the dataset resolved five evolutionary lineages that were correlated with the F. o. melonis VCGs, with the exception of VCGs 0130 and 0131, which could not be differentiated with EF-1α sequences. Furthermore, based on EF-1α sequences, specific associations were found between F. o. melonis VCGs and the other formae speciales whose sequences were obtained from the GenBank. Taken together, these results support a polyphyletic origin for F. o. melonis, meaning that the ability of this forma specialis to cause disease on melon has emerged multiple times.}, Keywords = {Cucumis melo,Iran,Polyphyletic,VCG}, volume = {16}, Number = {4}, pages = {931-943}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-22-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-22-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Saleh, I. and Abedi, S. and Abedi, S.}, title = {A Panel Data Approach for Investigation of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and CO2 Causality Relationship}, abstract ={One of the current challenges and complications in the world is the climate change and global warming, which has numerous and varied effects and consequences in different regions. In this regard, the effects of economic activities on the increase in greenhouse gases and also the effects of greenhouse gases on economic activities have become increasingly controversial. In this study, an investigation was done upon the bidirectional causality relationship between real gross domestic product per capita and carbon dioxide emissions per capita in different countries. For this purpose, the Vector Auto-Regression Model with the micro panel application was used and the World Bank member countries were divided into different groups. Results indicated bidirectional causality relationship between Gross domestic product (GDP) and CO2 for three groups of countries. In addition, there was a one-way causal relationship from GDP o carbon dioxide volume for subgroups of countries with high average economic growth rate (HGR) and the rest of the world countries (ROW). This means that, to accomplish the international goals of decreasing the emissions of pollutant gases, collaboration between HGR and ROW group of the countries with industrial countries is indispensable. Moreover, heterogeneous non-causality test for Iran suggests that the economic activities are having increasingly negative environmental impacts on the country.}, Keywords = {Carbon Dioxide,Causality test,Gross Domestic Product,Micro panel,Vector auto-Regression}, volume = {16}, Number = {5}, pages = {947-956}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-9721-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-9721-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Haghjou, M. and Hayati, B. and MomeniCholeki, D.}, title = {Identification of Factors Affecting Adoption of Soil Conservation Practices by Some Rainfed Farmers in Iran}, abstract ={ In recent decades, large investments have been made to introduce soil conservation methods, but most of these efforts have had limited success in achieving the goals. As a result, attempt to identify the factors deterring or promoting adoption of soil conservation practices is important. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate factors affecting adoption of soil conservation practices by rain-fed farmers.Data were gathered from 178 farmers of Izeh County in Khuzestan Province, Iran, during 2010 crop season. An ordered Logit regression model was applied to analyze the data. The results have revealed that farmers’ perception of soil erosion and their knowledge about soil conservation practices, farms size, and grant funding have a positive effect, while farmers’ levels of academic education and number of plots have negative effects on farmers’ adoption. To promote adoption of conservation practices, awarding grants, holding targeted training/extension classes to increase farmers’ knowledge about soil erosion, and methods of coping with it are suggested.}, Keywords = {Erosion,Ordered logit model,Soil conservation measures'}, volume = {16}, Number = {5}, pages = {957-967}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-399-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-399-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {NozadBonab, Z. and Iranipour, S. and FarshbafPourabad, R.}, title = {Demographic Parameters of Two Populations of Trissolcus grandis (Thomson) (Hymenoptera: Scelionidae) at Five Constant Temperatures}, abstract ={Trissolcus grandis (Thomson) (Hymenoptera: Scelionidae) is the most important egg parasitoid of the common sunn pest, Eurygaster integriceps Puton (Hemiptera: Scutelleridae) in Iran. Demographic characteristics may be used for preliminary screening of parasitoid species or populations as well as for predicting their efficiency under different physical conditions in the field. In this study, the demography of two northwestern populations of T. grandis was studied under five constant temperatures including 20, 23, 26, 29, and 32±1°C, at 50±5% RH and 16:8 h (L: D) photoperiod. The two populations responded differently to the temperatures, thus, many life history parameters were significantly affected not only by temperature itself but also in interaction with population. The highest value of intrinsic rate of increase for the Marand population was 0.344±0.057 females/female/day that occurred at 26°C. The same rate for the Tabriz population increased regularly with temperature increase and the maximum value (0.368±0.063) was obtained at 29°C. Further increase in temperature led to a negligible change in the value of this parameter. As a whole, the Marand population seemed to be adapted to cooler conditions compared to the Tabriz population}, Keywords = {Egg parasitoid,Eurygaster integriceps,Intrinsic rate of increase,Life history}, volume = {16}, Number = {5}, pages = {969-979}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-4918-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-4918-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {SaberiRiseh, N. and Ghadamyari, M. and Hosseininaveh, V. and Motamedinia, B. and Aghaali, N.}, title = {Effect of Inhibitors from Plant Seeds on Digestive Proteolytic Activities in Larvae of the Date Palm Fruit Stalk Borer, Oryctes elegans Prell (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae)}, abstract ={The date palm fruit stalk borer is one of the most important pests of date palm in the world. Biochemical properties of digestive proteases in Oryctes elegans Prell larvae were investigated in this research and optimal total proteolytic and trypsin activities were obtained at pH 9.0 and 11.0, respectively. Activity staining of protease on SDS-PAGE showed one isoform. Also, zymogram pattern of trypsin using nitro-cellulose membrane revealed two isoforms. The inhibitory effect of PMSF, TLCK, TPCK, EDTA, iodoacetate and iodoacetamide were determined on O. elegans proteolytic activity. The iodoacetamide showed the highest inhibition on total proteolytic activity. Therefore, cysteine protease accounted for the major proteases in the gut of O. elegans. Total proteolytic activity was inhibited 22.3 and 12.15% by inhibitors extracted from Vicia faba and Lathyrus sativus, respectively. However, the inhibitors extracted from seeds of Prosopis farcta, Panecum miliaceum, and Alhagi maurorum showed negligible inhibitory effects on proteolytic activities. Trypsin activity was inhibited 91.5 and 82.3% by inhibitors extracted from V. faba and L. sativus, respectively. Electrophoretic analysis showed that inhibitors extracted from V. faba reduced the intensity of total proteolytic and trypsin activities. The inhibitor from V. faba was purified by ammonium sulfate precipitation and gel-filtration, also the molecular mass of inhibitor was determined 35 kDa. This purified inhibitor was able to inhibit trypsin activity by 72.7%. In addition, the highest inhibition of trypsin activity by inhibitor from V. faba occurred at pH 11.0. Also, the stability of inhibitor from V. faba was evaluated at different pHs and temperatures. This inhibitor was stable at pH 11.0 and 30 °C.}, Keywords = {Digestive protease type,Plant protease inhibitors,Trypsin}, volume = {16}, Number = {5}, pages = {981-992}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-4299-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-4299-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Izadi, N. and Hayati, D.}, title = {Appraising Some Iranian Maize Growers\' Ecological Behavior: Application of Path Analysis}, abstract ={Understanding people’s ecological behaviors and the impacts of human activities on natural environment is one of the most important concepts in ecological psychology research. The purpose of this study was to investigate causal relationship between factors and maize growers’ ecological behavior concerning the application of external inputs such as water, fertilizers, chemical pesticides, and machineries based on the Comprehensive Action Determination model applied to the agricultural sector in Iran, for the first time. The ecological behavior in agriculture means cultivation with proper methods for conservation of soil, water, and other resources. Population of this study was all maize growers in Shiraz County (491 farmers). Through stratified random sampling method, 220 maize growers were selected. Results indicate that situational influences, normative processes, intentional processes, and habitual processes are effective factors on maize growers' ecological behavior. Based on the results, some recommendations are presented.}, Keywords = {Comprehensive action determination model,Ecological agriculture,Ecological behavior measurement index,Nature protection}, volume = {16}, Number = {5}, pages = {993-1003}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-2052-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-2052-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Pourkhabbaz, H. R. and Javanmardi, S. and FarajiSabokbar, H. A.}, title = {Suitability Analysis for Determining Potential Agricultural Land Use by the Multi-Criteria Decision Making Models SAW and VIKOR-AHP (Case study: Takestan-Qazvin Plain)}, abstract ={Suitability analysis is a prerequisite for sustainable agricultural production and it involves evaluation of the environmental parameters. The development and creation of appropriate points for this land use without considering environmental capability will result in the appearance of several ecological, economic, and social problems. The Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) Models were used for solving such problems. Takestan-Qazvin region is one of the biomes that have difficulties due to lack of a systematic administration on environmental resources. This research was done in the framework of the ecological model and by using multicriteria decision making methods such as Analytic Network Process (ANP), Simple Additive Weighting (SAW) and Vlse Kriterijumska Optimizacija I Kompromisno Resenje - Analytical Hierarchy Process (VIKOR-AHP)in GIS environment with the aim of choosing the suitable locations for agricultural land use in Takestan-Qazvin Plain. However, the purpose of this study was twofold: first, it was aimed at determining the ecological capability of agricultural land use by using ANP and SAW methods. Second, the suitable agricultural alternatives in this region were ranked using the integrated VIKOR and AHP models. In these methods, the ratings and the weights of the criteria are known precisely. Ecological factors such as physical and biological parameters and economic - social factors were chosen as the major criteria affecting the agriculture land use. The research indicated that north parts of the study area were not suitable for agricultural development. Finally, the conclusion showed that the application of decision making models could be useful in environmental capacity evaluation of agricultural land use.}, Keywords = {Agricultural land use,Analytic Network process,Simple Additive Weighting method,VIKOR model,Takestan-Qazvin Plain}, volume = {16}, Number = {5}, pages = {1005-1016}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-4889-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-4889-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Darvishi, H. and Khoshtaghaza, M. H. and Minaee, S.}, title = {Fluidized Bed Drying Characteristics of Soybeans}, abstract ={The present study investigated the influence of air temperature and velocity on the drying kinetics and specific energy consumption during fluidized bed drying of soybean at 80, 100, 120 and 140ºC and airflow rates of 1.8, 3.1 and 4.5 m s-1. Six mathematical models for describing the fluidized bed drying behavior were investigated. The value of the drying rate coefficient (k) increased with increasing air temperature and velocity and thus reduced the drying time. Although the Midilli model showed the best fit, the Page’s model was selected, since it had almost a similar performance but the model is simpler with two parameters instead of four. The drying of soybean seeds took place in the falling rate period and was controlled by moisture diffusion. A third order polynomial relationship was found to correlate the effective moisture diffusivity with moisture content. Effective diffusivity increased with decreasing moisture content and increasing temperature and air velocity. It varied from 4.595×10−11 to 3.325×10−10 m2 s-1 over the temperature and velocity ranges. Values of the activation energy for moisture diffusion were determined as 35.33, 32.85 and 30.73 kJ mol-1 for air velocities of 1.8, 3.1 and 4.5 m/s, respectively. It was found that decrease in energy of activation caused an increase in drying rate. The minimum and the maximum specific energy requirements for drying of soybean seeds were determined as 26.90 and 111.05 kWh kg-1 for 140ºC with 1.8 m s-1 and 80ºC with 4.5 m s-1 air velocity, respectively.}, Keywords = {Drying rate,Mathematical modeling,Moisture diffusivity,energy consumption}, volume = {16}, Number = {5}, pages = {1017-1031}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-1352-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-1352-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Mohammad, W. and Shah, S. A. and Shahzadi, S. and Haroon, Kh.}, title = {Effect of Conservation Agriculture Practices on Oat Fodder Yield, Water Use Efficiency, and Microbial Biomass C and N in Rainfed Dry Area of North- West Pakistan}, abstract ={Crop productivity, water use efficiency (WUE), and microbial biomass C and N in rainfed dry area are influenced by tillage, rotation, and crop residue management. Field experiments were conducted during 2005-08 to study the effect of tillage, crop rotation, and crop residue retention on oat fodder yield, water use efficiency, and microbial biomass C (MBC) and N (MBN) under semi-arid conditions in north-west Pakistan. The objective of the study was to identify suitable cultural practices and fodder cropping system with improved water use efficiency for a dry area. The treatments consisted of three rotations: i) oat–fallow–oat (O-F-O)-farmers’ practice, ii) oat– summer legume–oat (O-SL-O), and iii) oat–summer cereal–oat (O-SC-O). For each rotation, there were two tillage and two crop residue management treatments: i) Tillage (crop residues removed) and Tillage (crop residues retained), and ii) No-tillage (crop residues removed) and No-tillage (crop residues retained). Basal doses of N60+P60 (kg ha-1) to oat, N90+P60 to summer cereals and N20+P60 (kg ha-1) to legumes were applied. Changes in soil water storage were monitored with neutron moisture probe for calculation of WUE. The results indicated that an average maximum dry matter yield (7.78 t ha-1) and WUE (26.47 kg ha-1mm-1) was obtained under no-tillage+crop residues treatment. The tillage practices showed no-significant effect on oat dry matter yield and WUE. The oat yield and WUE was higher in O-F-O rotation compared to O-SL-O and O-SC-O. The surface soil (0-15 cm) analysis showed that MBC and MBN was consistently greater in the no-tillage+crop residues treatment. These results indicated that no-tillage+crop residue treatment was relatively more beneficial under the rainfed (dry) conditions.}, Keywords = {Crop rotation,Crop residues,Tillage,NP fertilizers}, volume = {16}, Number = {5}, pages = {1033-1042}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-8654-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-8654-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Koocheki, A. R. and Yazdansepas, A. and Mahmadyorov, U. and Mehrvar, M. R.}, title = {Physiological-based Selection Criteria for Terminal Drought in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)}, abstract ={Drought is the most restricting factor in agricultural production in arid and semi-arid regions. This research was conducted on 19 facultative and winter wheat genotypes grown under normal irrigation (N), early post-anthesis (S1), and late post-anthesis (S2) drought stress conditions. The experiments were conducted at Karadj, Arak, and Jolgehrokh Agricultural Research Stations in Iran, during 2008-11 cropping seasons. Stress reduced grain number per spike, thousand grain weight, grain weight per spike, harvest index, biological weight, and grain yield.Effect of environment, irrigation, and genotype on most of the traits, including grain yield, was significant. Remobilization, efficiency of remobilization, and pre-anthesis photo-assimilate contribution to grain filling increased under drought stress condition. Correlation coefficients between those traits and grain yield were significantly positive under N, S1, and S2 conditions. Based ondifferent drought tolerance indices, the improved line Alvd//Aldan/Ias58*2/3/Gaspard was identified as the most tolerant genotype under anthesis and post-anthesis drought stress conditions.It also had the highest remobilization, efficiency of remobilization, and pre-anthesis photo-assimilate contribution to grain fillingunder drought stress conditions.}, Keywords = {Bread wheat,Grain yield,Remobilization,Late drought}, volume = {16}, Number = {5}, pages = {1043-1053}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-2032-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-2032-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Salehinasab, M. and Zerehdaran, S. and Abbasi, M. A. and Alijani, S. and Hassani, S.}, title = {Genetic Properties of Productive Traits in Iranian Native Fowl: Genetic Relationship between Performance and Egg Quality Traits}, abstract ={The present study was conducted to estimate correlations among performance and egg quality traits in Iranian native fowl. Data were collected from 21,679 birdsat the Isfahan Native Fowl Breeding Center to derive genetic parameters for performance traits and egg quality traits were measured on eggs of 1,020 birds. Genetic correlations of performance and egg quality traits were estimated with a bivariate animal model using ASREML software. Body weight at hatch, 8, and 12 weeks of age (BW0, BW8 and BW12, respectively) positively (0.05 to 0.82) correlated with egg weight (EW), shell weight (SW), specific gravity (SG), yolk height (YH) and albumen weight (AW). BW0 and BW12 negatively (-0.10 to -0.26) correlated with shell strength (SS) and shell thickness (ST). Genetic correlations of BW8 and BW12 with albumen height (AH) and Haugh unit (HU) were highly negative (-0.45 to -0.55), whereas BW12 showed positive correlation with shape index (SI) (0.22). Shell weight showed high positive genetic correlation with age at sexual maturity (ASM) (0.75), while its genetic correlation with egg number (EN) was highly negative (-0.71). EN also showed high negative correlation with yolk and albumen weight (-0.91 and -0.75, respectively). Based on the present results, selection for higher BW will lead to production of eggs with higher internal quality. In contrast, this kind of selection will reduce the shell strength and shell thickness. Therefore, selection should be based on an index including performance and egg quality traits. This will help to develop indigenous strain of meat-cum-egg type chicken.}, Keywords = {Age at sexual maturity,Haugh unit,Specific gravity}, volume = {16}, Number = {5}, pages = {1055-1062}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-6878-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-6878-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Guo, J. and Wu, H. and Du, L. and Zhang, W. and Yang, J.}, title = {Comparative Antioxidant Properties of Some Gingerols and Shogaols, and the Relationship of Their Contents with the Antioxidant Potencies of Fresh and Dried Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe)}, abstract ={Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) contains the biological properties of the major standard non–volatile pungent compounds of ginger, namely, [6]–, [8]–, and [10]–gingerols, as well as [6]– , [8]–, and [10]–shogaols. So far, the comparative antioxidant potencies among shogaols and gingerols have not been studied in detail and reported. Accordingly, this study aimed to examine and compare the antioxidant abilities of the six main compounds. Results showed that[6]–, [8]–, and [10]–gingerols, as well as [6]–, [8]–, and [10]–shogaols exhibited substantial in vitro antioxidant activities. The DPPH•, ABTS•+,and FRAP assays results showed that the antioxidant abilities of [6]–shogaol were greatest among the six gingerols and shogaols studied (P< 0.05), and those of [6]–, [8]–, and [10]–shogaols were greater than those of [6]–, [8]–, and [10]–gingerols, respectively, which can be attributed to the presence of α, β–unsaturated ketones moieties. Moreover, the observation that the antioxidant abilities of [6]–gingerol were greater than those of [8]– and [10]–gingerols (P< 0.05) indicated that the short carbon chains of [6]–gingerol and [6]–shogaol played a significant role in making them more potent antioxidants than the other four longer carbon chain compounds. This finding can be attributed to gingerols undergoing dehydration transformations into shogaols during oven drying. Our results provided some new information on the antioxidant abilities of gingerols and shogaols.}, Keywords = {α,β–unsaturated ketones moieties,Antioxidant potency,Ginger,Gingerol,Shogaol,Antioxidant,HPLC–UVD}, volume = {16}, Number = {5}, pages = {1063-1072}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-1979-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-1979-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Tamjidi, F. and Nasirpour, A. and Shahedi, M.}, title = {Rheological Characteristics of Yogurt Enriched with Microencapsulated Fish Oil}, abstract ={This study was aimed at evaluating the flow behavior characteristics of yogurt enriched with fish oil (FO) microcapsules prepared by complex coacervation method. FO was microencapsulated in gelatin-acacia gum coacervates. Then, the microcapsules were dried, and yogurt was produced from the milk enriched with microcapsules powder. Rheological characteristics (as measured using a rotational viscometer) of yogurt were evaluated in the shear rate range of 0.262-7.86 s-1 at 6˚C during 21 days of storage. Power Law model was used for calculation of consistency coefficient and flow behavior index of yogurt. As compared to the control, the enriched yogurt had higher apparent viscosity. Consistency coefficients of the enriched and the control yogurts were in the range of 24.42-28.82 and 15.31-17.76 Pa sn, respectively. Yogurt samples showed a non-Newtonian shear-thinning flow behavior. Addition of FO microcapsules to yogurt may be useful for improving its health-promoting effect and consistency.}, Keywords = {Complex coacervation,Encapsulation,Functional foods,Marine omega-3 oil,Yogurt flow behavior}, volume = {16}, Number = {5}, pages = {1073-1082}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-11239-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-11239-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Buksa, K. and Ziobro, R. and Nowotna, A. and Adamczyk, G. and Sikora, M. and Zylewski, M.}, title = {Water Binding Capacity of Rye Flours with the Addition of Native and Modified Arabinoxylan Preparations}, abstract ={Despite a highly beneficial role of water soluble arabinoxylans, the information about the effect of their addition on the properties of rye dough is lacking. The aim of this study was to check the influence of their modification methods and properties on water binding capacity of rye flour and suggest some possible explanations for the action of various fractions of arabinoxylans. Three modifications of isolated arabinoxylans were carried out: enzymatic hydrolysis, cross-linking, and combination of both. The preparations used as additives differed in molecular characteristics of arabinoxylans, as well as their rheological behavior. The addition of all preparations at 1 and 2% levels to rye flour types 720 and 1,150 resulted in an increase of water absorption. The high water absorption of the two rye flour types with the same amount of arabinoxylan preparations was mainly related to structural properties of arabinoxylans, such as molecular mass and substitution ratio. Structural properties were responsible for rheological behavior of the samples, which allow prediction of the final water absorption of rye flour.}, Keywords = {Arabinoxylans,Cross-linking,Dough,Xylanase hydrolysis}, volume = {16}, Number = {5}, pages = {1083-1095}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-8590-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-8590-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Vazquez, M. J. and Chenlo, F. and Moreira, R. and Pacios, B. and Mayor, L.}, title = {Water Desorption Isotherms of Raw and Osmotically Dehydrated Garlic}, abstract ={Water desorption isotherms of raw and osmotically dehydrated (at 25ºC, for 2 hours, with 10 and 26% NaCl solutions) garlic slices at different temperatures (25, 40, 55, and 70ºC) were experimentally determined over a range of water activity of 0.05–0.90 using a static gravimetric method. Desorption isotherms can be classified as Type III. The water desorption isotherms of raw garlic clearly showed the influence of temperature i.e. increasing water activity at a fixed moisture content with increasing temperature; whereas for the osmotically dehydrated garlic the effect of the temperature was less important. The increase of NaCl content in osmotically dehydrated garlic led to a decrease in water activity at the same moisture content, and this effect was more accentuated at high temperatures. Equilibrium moisture content data at each temperature were satisfactorily fitted with Henderson model and a six-parameters equation based on Henderson model was obtained in order to correlate simultaneously moisture content with water activity, temperature, and osmotic solution concentration. A prediction model based on concentration and physical state of garlic compounds was successfully used to reproduce the experimental data.}, Keywords = {Drying,Equilibrium moisture content,Modelling,Water activity}, volume = {16}, Number = {5}, pages = {1097-1107}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-8414-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-8414-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Jahdi, R. and Darvishsefat, A. A. and Etemad, V. and Mostafavi, M. A.}, title = {Wind Effect on Wildfire and Simulation of its Spread (Case Study: Siahkal Forest in Northern Iran)}, abstract ={Lack of fire behavior studies and the immediate needs posed by the extent of the fire problem in forests of Iran require that extensive studies be conducted to develop models to predict fire behavior in the region.In this study, FARSITE Fire Area Simulator was applied to simulate spread and behavior of two real fires that had occurred in Northern Forests of Iran during 2010 summer and fall seasons in a spatially and temporally explicit manner taking into account the fuel, topography, and prevailing weather in the area. Spatial data themes of elevation, aspect, slope, canopy cover, and fuel model were prepared and formatted in GIS along with weather and wind files to run FARSITE fire behavior model. The effect of weather conditions on the accuracy of FARSITE simulations was evaluated in order to assess the capabilities of the simulator in accurately predicting the fire spread in the case study. The WindNinja model was used to derive local winds influenced by vegetation and topography. The simulations were validated with the real mapped fire scars by GPS mapping. Kappa Coefficient was used as measure of the accuracy of the simulation. The Kappa statistic was lower for spatially uniform wind data (0.5) as compared to spatially varying wind data (0.8) for the two studied events. The results confirm that the use of accurate wind field data is important in fire spread simulation, and can improve its accuracy and the predictive capabilities of the simulator. }, Keywords = {FARSITE,Fuel Model,Weather condition,Wildfire spread,WindNinja}, volume = {16}, Number = {5}, pages = {1109-1121}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-11214-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-11214-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Thippeswamy, S. and Mohana, D. C. and Abhishek, R. U. and Manjunath, K.}, title = {Inhibitory Activity of Plant Extracts on Aflatoxin B1 Biosynthesis by Aspergillus flavus}, abstract ={The inhibitory activities of aqueous and solvent extracts of twelve selected medicinal plants were evaluated against biosynthesis of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) by Aspergillus flavus. The A. flavus was isolated from maize, and aflatoxin B1 biosynthesis was confirmed by comparison with standard AFB1 using TLC method. In vivo antiaflatoxigenic efficacies of activity guided solvent extracts were determined in maize model system. All the extracts showed varying degree of antifungal and AFB1 inhibitory activities, but chloroformic extract of Albizia amara, Cassia spectabilis and Solanum indicum, and methanolic extract of Acacia catechu, Albizia saman andAnogeissus latifolia showed the highest activity. Further investigations on identification of active principles from these plants are needed to develop plant based formulations for management of A. flavus growth and AFB1 contamination in food grains.}, Keywords = {Antiaflatoxigenic,maize,Plant extracts}, volume = {16}, Number = {5}, pages = {1123-1132}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-9949-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-9949-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Tahami, S. K. and Chamani, E. and Zare, N.}, title = {Plant Regeneration from Protoplasts of Lilium ledebourii (Baker) Boiss}, abstract ={For half a century, the limitations of obtaining cross-combinations in lilies because of the incompatibility and incongruity between different varieties have been known. Somatic hybridization is one of the most powerful tools for achieving distant interspecific hybrids. For this purpose, protoplast preparation is a first and important step in efficient system for the regeneration of plants from protoplasts. Protoplast isolation method was previously developed in Lilium ledebourii (Baker) Boiss. In this study, several valuable experiments were done based on completely randomized design with 3 replications and also each experiment was repeated twice. The results revealed that cell wall and colony formation were better in a liquid medium than those on a semi-solid medium. The highest plating efficiency (1.34×106 per gr FW) and callus formation was obtained by using a medium containing 1 mg L-1 2,4-D, 0.2 mg L-1 Kin and 2 g L-1 Yeast extract. Micro calli were formed after one month of culture. Many plantlets were formed on the calli after transfer of the proliferated calli to regeneration medium. The highest plantlet regeneration (91.66%) was obtained by using a medium containing 0.5mg L-1 NAA, 1.5 mg L-1 BA. Means comparison revealed that the semi- solid MS medium containing 0.5 mg L-1 NAA and 1.5 mg L-1 BA had the highest percentage of regeneration (91.66%), bulb number (8.83), and length (0.7366 cm), root length (0.421cm) and leaf number (13.66) and length (0.5052cm).}, Keywords = {Callus formation,In-vitro culture,medium,Proliferated calli}, volume = {16}, Number = {5}, pages = {1133-1144}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-7203-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-7203-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Dugalic, K. and Sudar, R. and Viljevac, M. and Josipovic, M. and Cupic, T.}, title = {Sorbitol and Sugar Composition in Plum Fruits Influenced by Climatic Conditions}, abstract ={The aim of the study was to evaluate changes of sorbitol, glucose, fructose, sucrose, and total sugars of plum fruits in different years under different climatic conditions i.e. air temperature and precipitation. The cultivars investigated in the research were: Topstar, Toptaste, Jojo, Haganta, Tophit, and Top 2000. The fruits were harvested at optimal stage of maturity in the experimental orchard of the Agricultural Institute Osijek. Content of glucose, fructose, sucrose, and sorbitol in the fruits were identified and quantified by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Significant differences were found between sucrose, glucose, fructose, and sorbitol depending on climatic conditions and cultivar. Sucrose was the highest in almost all years. Glucose was the predominant sugar in cultivars Jojo and Top 2000. Fructose and sorbitol contents were lower than sucrose and glucose. Average sugar contents in 2008-2012 period were compared with respect to climatic conditions. A significant effect of year was found for sucrose, sorbitol, total sugar, and dry matter, whereas no effect was found for glucose and fructose contents. Individual sugar contents correlated significantly with each other. The principal component analysis (PCA) showed that plum cultivars were clearly differentiated according to variability of sugar in fruit caused by climatic conditions. The obtained results highlighted that climatic conditions may have significant effect on plum fruit quality and, therefore, it is important to have adequate testing before recommending a cultivar for planting. }, Keywords = {HPLC,Plum cultivar,Sugar}, volume = {16}, Number = {5}, pages = {1145-1155}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-5228-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-5228-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Regulwar, D. G. and Gurav, J. B.}, title = {Irrigation Planning with Fuzzy Parameters: An Interactive Approach}, abstract ={Decisions relating to most irrigation-planning problems need to be made in the face of hydrologic uncertainties, which make the irrigation-planning problem more complex. The uncertainties can be tackled by formulating the problem as Fuzzy Linear Programming (FLP). In the present study, Single Objective Fuzzy Linear Programming (SOFLP) irrigation planning model was formulated for deriving the optimal cropping pattern plan with the objective of minimization of cost of cultivation and maximization of net benefits for the case study of Jayakwadi Project Stage-I in Godavari River sub-basin in Maharashtra State, India. The objective function coefficients, technological coefficients, and stipulations/resources under consideration were taken as triangular fuzzy numbers. The interactive approach was used to solve SOFLP model by involving the Decision Maker (DM) in all phases of decision-making process. The SOFLP model gave better results at highest degree of the membership value by keeping balance between feasibility degree of constraints and satisfaction degree of objectives. The minimized cost of cultivation and maximized net benefits for irrigation planning for the SOFLP model proposed, was found at greatest membership degree of 0.406 and 0.331, respectively, with the consideration of balance between the feasibility degree of constraints and satisfaction degree of goal. The DM can be involved in all phases of decision process, which is very essential in real world problems of irrigation planning where the data/information is vague or uncertain. }, Keywords = {Decision maker,Single objective fuzzy linear programming,Uncertainty}, volume = {16}, Number = {5}, pages = {1157-1172}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-3229-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-3229-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Zhu, X. M. and Shi, J. C. and Zuo, Q. and Wang, L. C. and Zheng, W. J.}, title = {Optimizing First-order Rate Coefficients for Soil Nitrate Transformation Processes Applying an Inverse Method}, abstract ={It is extremely challenging to measure first-order rate coefficients for soil nitrate transformation processes directly, either in the laboratory or in the field. In this study, an improved inverse method was proposed to optimize the first-order rate coefficients by considering the intermediate changing processes of the integrated functions. A numerical experiment was designed to test the accuracy of the method in optimizing the coefficients. Comparisons between the optimized and theoretical results indicated that all the relative errors were within 10%. Data collected from a field experiment were used to validate the optimization procedure and to demonstrate its applications in practice. Using the established model and the estimated values by the inverse method, the simulated source-sink term (SST) distributions of September 2-12, 2007, were in good agreement, with the root mean squared error (RMSE) between them being as low as 0.00021 mg cm-3 d-1. Based on the established nitrate transformation model, the distributions of soil water content and nitrate concentration during September 2-12, 2007, were simulated, and compared well with the measured profiles, with the RMSE of 0.023 cm3 cm-3 and 0.017 mg cm-3, respectively. The improved inverse method should be useful for optimizing the first-order rate coefficients for nitrate transformation, establishing the nitrate transformation model, and simulating the nitrate transport in the soil-plant system.}, Keywords = {Numerical simulation,Root-nitrate-uptake,Soil nitrate Kinetics,Soil nitrate transformation}, volume = {16}, Number = {5}, pages = {1173-1185}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-2846-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-2846-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Mathur, M.}, title = {Spatio-temporal Variability in Distribution Patterns of Tribulus terrestris: Linking Patterns and Processes}, abstract ={Spatial patterns are useful descriptors of the horizontal structure in a plant population and may change over time as the individual components of the population grow or die out. But, whether this is the case for desert woody annuals is largely unknown. In the present investigation, the variations in spatial patterns of Tribulus terrestris during different pulse events in semi-arid area of the Thar Desert, India, was quantified. Further ordination technique and path analysis were utilized to link the pattern and process of spatial distribution of T. terrestris. Dispersal indices like index of dispersal (ID), index of clumping (IC), Green’s Index, Lloyd’s mean crowding and Morisita’s index of dispersion (Iδ) revealed uniform distribution pattern during non-pulse events, showing intense competition among plants for limited resources. Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) and Bartlett’s test of sphericity indicated the appropriate use of factor analysis and the significant relationships between variables. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) exhibited the significant correlation of the index of dispersion with the index of clumping and with the Lloyd index, while the Lloyd index correlated with the index of clumping and with the Morisita index. Path analysis suggested the association of soil organic carbon, nitrogen, and C/N ratio with the transition from clumped to uniform pattern. Further, lower soil phosphorus also supported the uniform distribution of this plant. Diversity indices like evenness and Simpson index are associated with uniform and clumped distribution patterns. Higher and intermediate level of percent cover and seed out-put of T. terrestris were also related to uniform and clumped patterns. Path analysis also indicated that salinity tolerance capacity of the species could be utilized for reclamation programme.}, Keywords = {Morisita index and Bartlett’s test,Path analysis,Principal component analysis (PCA),Pulse events}, volume = {16}, Number = {5}, pages = {1187-1201}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-4774-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-4774-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Moadeli, T. and Hejazi, M. J. and Golmohammadi, Gh.}, title = {Lethal Effects of Pyriproxyfen, Spinosad, and Indoxacarb and Sublethal Effects of Pyriproxyfen on the 1st Instars Larvae of Beet Armyworm, Spodoptera exigua Hübner (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in ‌‌the Laboratory}, abstract ={The beet armyworm (Spodoptera exigua Hübner) is an important pest of many agricultural crops all over the world. Most of the sugar beet growing regions in Iran are infested. In this study, the acute lethal effects of Pyriproxyfen, Spinosad, and Indoxacarb as well as sublethal effects of Pyriproxyfen on the 1st instar S. exigua were assessed by leaf dip bioassay method. Mortality was recorded 48 hours after treatment. LC50 and LC90 values for Spinosad were 0.096 and 0.252 mg ai l-1, respectively, and for Indoxacarb, they were 2.510 and 38.828 mg ai l-1, respectively. The LC50 value for Spinosad was 26 times lower than that of Indoxacarb. Preliminary experiments revealed that Pyriproxyfen did not cause acutely lethal effects on the beet armyworm larvae even following exposure at recommended doses. Pyriproxyfen, however, did show considerable delayed effects against this pest. Significant differences in biological, reproductive, and population growth parameters were found in Pyriproxyfen treated insects in comparison with the control insects. Population growth parameters including net reproduction rate (R0), gross reproduction rate (GRR), intrinsic rate of population increase (rm), and finite rate of population increase (λ) were reduced by 14.7-, 6.63-, 2.33-, and 1.09-fold, respectively, following Pyriproxyfen exposure. Additionally, mean generation time (T) and doubling time (DT) of the population were increased by 1.12- and 2.3-fold, respectively. }, Keywords = {Spodoptera exigua,Lethal effects,Sublethal effects,Insecticides,Life table}, volume = {16}, Number = {6}, pages = {1217-1227}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-4127-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-4127-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Nikbin, R. and Sahragard, A. and Hosseini, M.}, title = {Age-specific Functional Response of Trichogramma brassicae (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae) Parasitizing Different Egg Densities of Ephestia kuehniella (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae)}, abstract ={The parasitoid Trichogramma brassicae Bezdenko is used for inundative releases in biological control programs against lepidopteran pests in agro-ecosystems. Age-specific functional responses of T. brassicae to different egg densities (5, 10, 20, 30, 40, 60, and 80) of sterilized eggs of Ephestia kuehniella at 23±1°C, 60±5% RH, and 16:8 h (L:D photoperiod ) were studied. E. kuehniella densities were separately presented to a single mated female of T. brassicae (1-day-old). The egg densities were replaced every day until the parasitoid died and each density was replicated 20 times. A type III functional response was obtained for the one-day-old females and a type II for two- to nine-day-old ones. Results show that parasitoid age influences searching efficiency and handling time. Searching efficiency (a´) varied as adult parasitoids aged. In contrast, handling time increased with age. The lowest and highest values were obtained in days 1 and 9 of the parasitoid's life, respectively. The maximum rate of parasitism (T/Th) decreased significantly with an increase in parasitoid age. It was concluded that T. brassicae females were most efficient at early ages of their life and might be capable of efficiently suppressing lepidopteran pest populations.}, Keywords = {Age-specific parasitism,Biological control,host density,parasitoid,Search rate}, volume = {16}, Number = {6}, pages = {1217-1227}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-4409-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-4409-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Nematollahi, M. R. and Fathipour, Y. and Talebi, A. A. and Karimzadeh, J. and Zalucki, M.}, title = {Sampling Procedure and Temporal-Spatial Distribution of the Cabbage Aphid, Brevicoryne brassicae L. (Hemiptera: Aphididae), on Canola}, abstract ={To estimate population density of the cabbage aphid, Brevicoryne brassicae (L.), a stratified random sampling was conducted in two unsprayed canola fields in Isfahan (central Iran) during 2011-2012. Population density was determined for apterous, and alates, as well as the total population, at two plant growth phases (PGP1: From plant emergence to the end of rosette, and PGP2: From the beginning of stem elongation to ripening) on the whole plant as the sampling unit. Sources of variation in the sampling procedure were analyzed with a nested analysis of variance (NANOVA). In PGP2, aphid density in upper (10-15 cm upper part of stem) and lower (the rest of stem) parts were compared using Student’s t-test. Temporal changes in spatial pattern during the growth season were evaluated using 1/k (aggregation index) and Lloyd’s Patchiness Index. Results showed that differences among fields accounted for the majority of total variation observed in aphid densities and the aphids significantly preferred upper parts of canola plants. Among different indices used for analyzing spatial distribution of the aphid, Taylor’s Power Law (TPL) described well the relationship between variance and mean of the population. In both PGPs spatial patterns of apterous, alates, and total population were aggregated, random, and aggregated, respectively. Estimates of 1/k and changes in the value of patchiness index revealed that the aphid population was aggregated at the beginning of rosette stage and became more dispersed with time.   }, Keywords = {Brassica napus,Between-plant distribution,Isfahan,Population density,Within-plant distribution}, volume = {16}, Number = {6}, pages = {1241-1252}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-11014-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-11014-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Memarizadeh, N and Zamani, P. and Sajedi, R. H. and Ghadamyari, M.}, title = {Purification and Characterization of Midgut α-Glucosidase from Larvae of the Rice Green Caterpillar, Naranga aenescens Moore}, abstract ={Application of chemical pesticides has increased significantly worldwide and has raised serious concerns about environmental pollutions. One of the encouraging trends to minimize pesticide risk is production of resistant plants containing toxic proteins against insect pests. Considering the importance of purification and characterization of digestive enzymes in the production of resistant plants, in this study an α-glucosidase from the Naranga aenescens Moore's midgut was purified by ammonium sulfate precipitation, ion exchange chromatography on DEAE-sepharose, and concentrating through ultrafiltration. The apparent molecular mass of the enzyme was 48 kDa determined by SDS-PAGE. The optimum pH and temperature of the enzyme were 6.0 and 45°C, respectively. The irreversible thermoinactivation of the enzyme showed that it was highly stable at 35ºC but moderately stable at 40 and 45ºC. Zn2+, Hg2+, Co2+ at 10 and 20 mM, and Ba+2only in 20 mM strongly inhibited the α-glucosidase activity. Ba2+ and Ca2+ only at 10 mM, EDTA and Hg22+ only at 20 mM and Mg2+ at 10 and 20 mM significantly increased the enzyme activity. The Km and Kcat values for the α-glucosidase were 0.54 mM and 3.62 min-1, respectively, when p-Nitrophenyl-α-D-glucopyranoside (pNαG) was used as a substrate.}, Keywords = {Ion exchange chromatography,Enzyme activity,Kinetic parameters,Thermostability Kinetic parameters,Toxic proteins}, volume = {16}, Number = {6}, pages = {1253-1266}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-4357-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-4357-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Mohammadzadeh, S. and Sadighi, H. and PezeshkiRad, Gh.}, title = {Modeling the Process of Drip Irrigation System Adoption by Apple Orchardists in the Barandooz River Basin of Urmia Lake Catchment, Iran}, abstract ={The extensive use of traditional irrigation systems has led to overexploitation of groundwater and overuse of surface water in theUrmia  Lake Catchment (ULC) area ofIran. The purpose of this study was to model the adoption process of drip irrigation system (DIS) by apple orchardists (AOs) using the five stages of Roger’s model for Innovation Decision Process (IDP). Survey method of applying questionnaire and interview technique was used to collect data from 136 AOs. The results of the study indicated that, first, AOs’ knowledge level was “relatively low” and the majority of them were in the early stages of IDP. Secondly, applying an ordinal logistic regression, up to 36.3% of knowledge level variability, could be explained by variables consisting of: the contact level with extension agents, educational level, rural-urban commuting and information sources. Thirdly, using binary logistic regression, up to 74.1% of probability of adoption, could be explained by variables consisting of source of irrigation, knowledge scores, and orchard size. Fourthly, the main barriers for adoption were high costs, lack of license for semi deep wells, need to grow alfalfa, poor knowledge, and low surface area, respectively. Fifthly, about 0.5% of AOs had already implemented DIS. These findings were instrumental for localizing a model and developing the needed policy and institutional interventions falfa, poor knowledge, and low surface area, respectively. Fifthly, about 0.5% of AOs had already implemented DIS. These findings were instrumental for localizing a model and developing the needed policy and institutional interventions.}, Keywords = {Innovation Decision Process (IDP),Logistic regression,Pressured Irrigation,Urmia Lale}, volume = {16}, Number = {6}, pages = {1253-1266}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-10678-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-10678-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {MoradiKafraj, M. and MovahedMohammadi, S. H.}, title = {Challenges of Women’s Career Advancement in Iranian Agricultural Extension Organization}, abstract ={Since women hold a small share in Iranian agricultural extension administration, it is necessary to seriously facilitate women's participation in development programs and improve the policy of job opportunities and educational equity. The purpose of this study was to identify the challenges of women's career advancement in Iranian Agricultural Extension Organization (AEO). Survey study was applied as the methodology of research. The statistical sample consisted of 135 female agricultural field officers in AEO. Statistical sample was selected through stratified random sampling technique. A structured questionnaire was used as the research instrument. The face validity of the instrument was confirmed by a panel of specialists. Questionnaire reliability was estimated by calculating Cronbach's Alpha (α= 0.92). The results showed that: "giving key positions to men", "offering routine and simple tasks to women", " limited willingness of male colleagues toward women career advancement "," administrators’ weak belief in female experts' competencies ", and" limitation to visit villages" were recognized as the first five preventive variables by respondents. Also,based on factor analysis, attitudinal aspects, male-dominated organizational structure, time limitation, and adaptive factors were recognized. Under a collection of preventative challenges such as managerial discrimination, negative attitudes and norms regarding women’s role and abilities, severe conflict between work and family duties and personal willing, the female experts have low share in managerial positions in AEO. Therefore, the empowering plans must be focused on these areas.}, Keywords = {Agricultural extension management,Gender equality,Gender empowerment,Women's career barriers}, volume = {16}, Number = {6}, pages = {1267-1277}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-4595-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-4595-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Bedeković, D. and Pintar, J. and Janječić, Z. and Mužic, S. and Kos, I.}, title = {Using Rapeseed Cake to Improve Fatty Acid Composition of Turkey Meat}, abstract ={Rapeseed is the most widely used oil crop in Europe and it is an ideal raw material for the production of biodiesel. Because of a high nutritional value and a relatively high omega-3 fatty acids content, rapeseed cake can be used in poultry nutrition for the enrichment of meat and eggs. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the possibility of using rapeseed cake in diets for turkeys for the purpose of enriching turkey meat with omega-3 fatty acids. In the study, 120 male day-old Nicholas 700 turkeys were used and randomly divided into 3 groups, each group with 4 replications (n= 10). The control groups of turkeys were fed on compound feed without rapeseed cake and the experimental groups were fed with 5 or 10% share of rapeseed cake in compound feed. Based on the results obtained, we can conclude that the share of rapeseed cake of 5 or 10% in the compound feed did not cause any adverse impact on the performance of turkeys. Also, we established that there was an increase of the amount of omega-3 fatty acids with increased share of rapeseed cake and there was a positive trend of a decrease of the ratio of omega-6/omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. Positive financial effect of fattening can be expected, because rapeseed cake is a cheaper source of protein in comparison with the commonly used soybean meal. Therefore, rapeseed cake can be recommended in fattening of hybrid turkeys, with a share up to 10% in the compound feed.}, Keywords = {Growth performance,Omega-3 fatty acids,Rapeseed cake,Turkey}, volume = {16}, Number = {6}, pages = {1279-1287}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-185-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-185-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {HosseiniShekarabi, P. and Hosseini, S. E. and Soltani, M. and Kamali, A. and Valinassab, T.}, title = {A Comparative Study on Physicochemical and Sensory Characteristics of Minced Fish and Surimi from Black Mouth Croaker (Atrobucca nibe)}, abstract ={Commercial utilization of black mouth croaker (Atrobucca nibe) is in progress in Iran. This study was carried out to assess the physicochemical and sensory evaluation of minced fish and surimi prepared from small size of A. nibe, which is not common for human consumption. The surimi proximate composition contains protein (14.77±0.506%), lipid (0.94±0.081%), ash (0.58±0.007%) contents and yield rate (36.56±0.732%) were significantly lower than the mince, while the moisture content was higher in the surimi (79.58±0.729%) as compared to the mince (78.49±0.687%) (P< 0.05). Total volatile bases and thiobarbituric acid values of black mouth croaker surimi were 4.76±0.594 mg N 100 g-1, and 0.40±0.018 mg malondialdehyde kg-1, which, respectively, were significantly lower than those found for the minced fish (P< 0.05). Minced fish delivered significantly lower water holding capacity and pH value than the surimi (P< 0.05). Higher whiteness index was obtained in the surimi (66.23±0.029%) compared to the mince (51.68±0.020%) (P< 0.05). Total lipids of surimi contained more polyunsaturated fatty acids (36.32±0.257 g 100 g-1 total lipids) than other fatty acids of the minced fish (P< 0.05). Fish fingers prepared from the surimi obtained a higher mean score of all attributes (8.71±0.366) than the minced fish (7.47±0.326) (P< 0.05). It was concluded that this white-fleshed fish species was an appropriate raw material for surimi production. Further trials are needed to evaluate the surimi gel characteristics.}, Keywords = {Black mouth croaker,Fatty acids,Fish finger,Minced fish,Surimi}, volume = {16}, Number = {6}, pages = {1289-1300}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-3094-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-3094-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Eduardo, M. F. and CorreaDeMello, K. G. P. and Polakiewicz, B. and DaSilvaLannes, S. C.}, title = {Evaluation of Chocolate Milk Beverage Formulated with Modified Chitosan}, abstract ={Chitosan is a polysaccharide derived from chitin by N-deacetilation, which has the property of gel formation. The objective was to develop a chocolate milk beverage using modified (hydrogel) chitosan as a thickening agent, and to make a sensory and rheological evaluation of this beverage. In the sensory evaluation an acceptability and comparative test with 50 local consumers was carried out, with the developed beverage and samples from the Brazilian market, with the attributes overall acceptability and viscosity. The hybrid hedonic scale was used. The rheological evaluation was carried out with a rotational rheometer (Rheotest) with the H1 probe. A controlled rate test – ramp (0- 500, and 500-0 L s-1, 120 seconds, up and down), at 25ºC was used. There was no difference (P> 0.05) among the beverages in the overall acceptability. In spite of that, the developed beverage had a better score (7.12) in comparison with a market beverage (6.4). The beverages differed in viscosity (P< 0.05); the score of the developed beverage was 7.06 and the score of the market beverage was 5.87. The market beverage fitted to the Ostwald-de-Waele, Bingham, and Casson models, and the developed beverage fitted better to the Ostwald-de-Waele model. The consistence index (K) of the market beverage was 0.150 Pa sn, while that of the developed beverage was 1.590 Pa sn, showing a high difference in the consistence characteristic of the samples. The flow index (n) of the market beverage was 0.625 and that of the developed beverage was 0.435. All market beverages showed thixotropic behavior. The hydrogel chitosan was effective as a thickening agent and furnished a good acceptability of the beverage.}, Keywords = {Chitosan,Chocolate products,Food development,Food structure,Hydrocolloid}, volume = {16}, Number = {6}, pages = {1301-1312}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-9387-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-9387-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Hosseini, M. and HabibiNajafi, M. and Mohebbi, M.}, title = {Modification in the Functional Properties of Sodium Caseinate-based Imitation Cheese through Use of Whey Protein and Stabilizer}, abstract ={Guar gum and whey proteins concentrate (WPC-35) were used as functional additives to improve the functional characteristics (hardness and meltability) of the Na-caseinate-based imitation cheese. Also, the alterations in the composition, sensory acceptance, color, and texture caused by these ingredients were evaluated. Imitation cheeses were formulated with three levels each of WPC (0, 1.5, and 3%) and guar gum (0, 0.3 and 0.6%) w/w in cheese formulation. Cheeses with higher guar and lower WPC were softer and melted to a greater degree. Use of the two food additives at increasing levels reduced the amount of protein significantly (P< 0.05). Unlike guar, WPC increased pH values. Color of the cheese was affected positively by guar and negatively by WPC (P< 0.05). The overall acceptability of the cheese was not affected by the levels of WPC, but it did improve with increasing level of guar used in the formulation. Taking into consideration the adverse impact of WPC on color and meltability and slight adverse effect of guar on the hardness of imitation cheese, use of WPC at 1.5% and guar at 0.3% level in the formulation of imitation cheese is recommended.}, Keywords = {Guar Gum,Physico-chemical properties,Sensory characteristics,Whey protein concentrate}, volume = {16}, Number = {6}, pages = {1313-1324}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-3239-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-3239-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Koc, F. and Kara, S.}, title = {Environmental Factors Affecting Efficacy of Some Essential Oils and Potassium Sorbate to Control Growth of Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus parasiticus on Wheat and Maize Grains}, abstract ={The antifungal potential of essential oils of thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.), rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.), and laurel (Laurus nobilis L.) was determined. To establish this antifungal potential, two molds related to feed spoilage, namely, Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus, were selected. The agar dilution method was employed for the determination of antifungal activities. The investigated essential oils exhibited inhibitory effects on both molds tested. Thyme oil showed the highest inhibition of mold growth, followed by rosemary and laurel. Thyme essential oil was a stronger inhibitor against A. parasiticus than against A. flavus.The finding of the present study suggests that thyme essential oil inhibits the growth of fungi attacking stored feed and strengthens the possibility of using it as the alternative to potassium sorbate as effective inhibitor of biodegrading and storage contaminating fungi.}, Keywords = {Antifungal potential,Laurel,Rosemary,Thyme}, volume = {16}, Number = {6}, pages = {1325-1334}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-4813-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-4813-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Neocleous, D. and Koukounaras, A. and Siomos, A. S. and Vasilakakis, M.}, title = {Changes in Photosynthesis, Yield, and Quality of Baby Lettuce under Salinity Stress}, abstract ={The objective of this work was to study the responses of two baby lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) cultivars, namely, green Paris Island and red Sanguine, to different NaCl concentrations (0, 5, 10, and 20 mM). The study was conducted in a floating system and plants were harvested at the stage of 5-6 leaves, outside leaf 6-10 cm in length (25 and 31 days after sowing for green and red lettuce, respectively). Photosynthetic parameters (photosynthesis rate, stomatal conductance, transpiration rate, and intercellular CO2 concentration) and yield (leaf fresh weight) as well as color [L* (lightness), C* (saturation), Hº (object’s color)], pigments (Chla, Chlb, total chlorophyll, carotenoids and anthocyanins) and quality indices (appearance, freshness, taste and texture) were determined. The results indicated that, in both cultivars, leaf fresh weight was reduced at 20 mM NaCl; the reduction depended on the limited water accessibility and photosynthetic rate was suppressed in high salt concentration through stomatal limitations aiming at the retention of water but resulting in restricted availability of CO2. Nevertheless, no limitations were observed in photosynthetic pigments and, thus, stomatal closure was the dominant factor limiting photosynthesis. On the other hand, salinity improved anthocyanin content and coloration in red lettuce and enhanced freshness in green lettuce.}, Keywords = {Gas exchange,Leafy vegetables,NaCl,Plant growth,Sensory quality}, volume = {16}, Number = {6}, pages = {1335-1343}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-6519-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-6519-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Dong, L. and Hao, Z. and Li, Z. and Zhu, J. and Wang, Q.}, title = {Enhancement of Welsh Onion (Allium fistulosum L.) Seed Vigor by KNO3 Priming}, abstract ={Welsh onion (Allium fistulosum L.) is one of the important vegetable crops in China. However, the seeds of this crop are short-lived and their vitality tends to be easily lost in the course of storage. The present study was conducted to elucidate the effects of welsh onion seed priming with potassium nitrate (KNO3) on seed vigor and on other such related mechanisms during twelve months of storage. The priming treatment improved the germination rate and vigor index of welsh onion. Membrane deterioration of welsh onion seeds was significantly alleviated by the priming treatments, as assayed by using soluble sugar content and electrical conductivity of the seed leachates. The accumulation of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and malondialdehyde (MDA) in primed seeds was reduced compared with non-primed seeds. The increased activities of antioxidant enzymes, such as dehydrogenase, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) in primed seeds correlated with seed vigor and lipid peroxidation. This study provided the theoretical basis for improving the initial quality of welsh onion seeds using KNO3 priming.}, Keywords = {Antioxidant enzymes,lipid peroxidation}, volume = {16}, Number = {6}, pages = {1345-1353}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-3804-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-3804-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Song, L. L. and Zhang, H. N. and Zhao, H. Q. and Jiang, Y. L. and Hou, M. F.}, title = {In vitro Germination and Seedling Development of Taxus chinensis var. mairei by Embryo Culture}, abstract ={Taxus chinensis var. mairei is a rare and endangered medicinal plant species distributed in China. In order to promote fast propagation and preserve the natural resources, conditions for in vitro germination and seedling development of embryos of T. chinensis var. mairei from Anhui or Zhejiang were investigated. Results showed that in vitro germination rate of excised embryos cultured under 14 hours photoperiod was higher than that in darkness. But, nearly all embryos germinated under 14 hours photoperiod failed to develop into seedlings. Comparatively, 23.3 and 36.3% of embryos from Anhui and Zhejiang, respectively, which germinated in darkness, developed into full seedlings. Addition of plant growth regulators [gibberellic acid(GA3), indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), 6-benzylaminopurine (BA)] and organic additives (casein hydrolysate and yeast extract) in mediums promoted germination and seedling development. (Woody plant medium) WPM  medium supplemented with 0.5 mg L-1 GA3, 0.5 mg L-1 IAA, 0.5 mg L-1 BA and 1 g L-1 activated charcoal was optimal for the culture of embryos from Anhui, while WPM medium supplemented with 0.5 mg L-1 GA3, 500 mg L-1 casein hydrolysate and 1 g L-1 activated charcoal was optimum for embryos from Zhejiang. Moreover, the germination and seedling survival rate of embryos of T. chinensis var. mairei decreased with increasing maturity of the seeds. In conclusion, darkness during germination is necessary for subsequent seedling development and immature seeds are optimal for embryo culture of this species.}, Keywords = {Embryo culture,Germination,in vitro culture,Seedling development,Taxus}, volume = {16}, Number = {6}, pages = {1355-1363}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-7112-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-7112-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Chavez, C. and Fuentes, C. and Brambila, F. and Castañeda, A.}, title = {Numerical Solution of the Advection-Dispersion Equation: Application to the Agricultural Drainage}, abstract ={Subsurface drainage systems are used to control the depth of the water table and to reduce or prevent soil salinity. Water flow in these systems is described by the Boussinesq Equation, and the Advection-Dispersion Equation coupled with the Boussinesq Equation is used to study the solute transport. The objective of this study was to propose a finite difference solution of the Advection-Dispersion Equation using a lineal radiation condition in the drains. The equations’ parameters were estimated from a methodology based on the granulometric curve and inverse problems. The algorithm needs the water flow values, which were calculated with the Boussinesq Equation, where a fractal radiation condition and variable drainable porosity were applied. To evaluate the solution descriptive capacity, a laboratory drainage experiment was used. In the experiment, the pH, temperature, and electric conductivity of drainage water were measured to find the salt’s concentration. The salts concentration evolution was reproduced using the finite difference solution of the Advection-Dispersion Equation, and the dispersivity parameter was found by inverse modelling. The numerical solution was used to simulate the leaching of saline soil. The result showed that this solution could be used as a new tool for the design of agricultural drainage systems, enabling the optimal development of crops according to their water needs and the degree of tolerance to salinity.}, Keywords = {Boussinesq Equation,Dispersivity parameter,Finite Difference,Fractal radiation condition,Inverse modeling}, volume = {16}, Number = {6}, pages = {1357-1388}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-592-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-592-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Rahimmalek, M. and Maghsoudi, H. and Sabzalian, M. R. and GhasemiPirbalouti, A.}, title = {Variability of Essential Oil Content and Composition of Different Iranian Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Mill.) Accessions in Relation to Some Morphological and Climatic Factors}, abstract ={Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Mill.) is an industrial medicinal plant with different pharmaceutical and food applications. In this study, the leaf essential oil composition of 12 Iranian accessions of fennel collected from different geographical regions was assessed. The essential oil yield of fennel leaves ranged from 0.65% (Varamin accession) to 2.03% (Tabriz accession). Trans-anethole, fenchone and limonene were highly abundant in all of the examined oils. Trans-anethole ranged from 41.19% in Shiravan to 56.6% in Shiraz accessions and had negative correlation with most of the constituents. According to the major compounds, two chemotypes were defined in which group 1 was considered as the high trans-anethole (> 50%) and group 2 was a high limonene group. The correlation of essential oil yield and trans-anethol with climatic conditions and some morphological characters were also assessed. Higher temperatures and essential oil yield had negative Pearson correlation (r= -0.371), while trans-anethol and high temperature showed positive correlation (r= 0.459) in fennel. Furthermore, the studied accessions had different flowering time and height. The early flowering and dwarf accessions had higher essential oil yield, while the late flowering ones had higher trans-anethol in their leaves.}, Keywords = {Climatic condition,Fenchone,Limonene,temperature,Trans-anethole}, volume = {16}, Number = {6}, pages = {1365-3174}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-11772-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-11772-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Zhang, C. B. and Peng, B. and Zhang, W. L. and Wang, S. M. and Sun, H. and Dong, Y. S. and Zhao, L. M.}, title = {Application of SSR Markers for Purity Testing of Commercial Hybrid Soybean (Glycine max L.)}, abstract ={Exploitation of the full potential of any hybrid requires the possessing of genetically high-purity seeds. Commercial soybean hybrids have been developed using a cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS) system. In order to avoid reduction in yield caused by using low-purity seeds, development of a simple, rapid, and accurate method for hybrid purity assessment is of great essence and significance. Therefore, the parental lines of HybSoy 1 to 5 were screened using 160 Simple Sequence Repeat (SSR) makers, of which 8 markers exhibited polymorphism. A PCR-based assay with these markers detected both alleles of the parental lines in pure hybrids, proving their heterozygosity, whereas impurities were identified by the presence of only one parental allele. The confirmation of hybrid purity indicated that a single polymorphic marker was sufficient for detection of contaminations of these hybrids from their parents. It was also found that if a hybrid seed lot was contaminated by another hybrid or its parental lines, two or more appropriate markers could be used to easily detect such contamination. This method could accurately and effectively identify the hybrid purity in a predetermined sample of soybean hybrids constituted by deliberately mixing seeds of parental lines. This is the first report that demonstrates the utility of SSR markers for assessment of genetic purity of soybean hybrids.}, Keywords = {Cytoplasmic male sterility,Genetic purity,Molecular marker,Contamination,Polymorphism}, volume = {16}, Number = {6}, pages = {1389-1396}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-606-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-606-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Abbasi, Z. and Arzani, A. and Majidi, M. M.}, title = {Evaluation of Genetic Diversity of Sugar Beet (Beta vulgaris L.) Crossing Parents Using Agro-morphological Traits and Molecular Markers}, abstract ={Eight pollinators (as pollen parents) and four CMS lines (as seed parents) differing in salinity and drought tolerance were evaluated using agro-morphological traits and microsatellite markers. Root yield, leaf weight, sugar content, sodium content (Na+), potassium content (K+), a-amino nitrogen content, alkalinity coefficient, molasses sugar, white sugar content, extraction coefficient of sugar, dry matter, sugar yield, and white sugar yield were evaluated. The genetic diversity of 14 individual plants within each parent (a total of 168 genotypes) was also assessed using 18 microsatellite (SSR) markers. The results showed that 43 and 32.6% of the total variation in agro-morphological traits could be explained by the first 2 principal components, which could discriminate salinity and drought tolerant parents. Based on SSR analysis, a total number of 104 alleles were detected with an average number of 5.7 alleles per primer pair and an average polymorphism information content (PIC) of 0.64 with the highest PIC belonging to EST-SSR FDSB502. Cluster analysis based on SSR markers clearly discriminated 112 plants belonging to pollen parents from 56 plants of seed parents. In conclusion, the SSR markers have been shown to be efficient and reliable for assessing genetic diversity in sugar beet crossing parents.}, Keywords = {Genetic variation,Microsatellite,Root-sugar yield}, volume = {16}, Number = {6}, pages = {1397-1411}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-6906-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-6906-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Ghaedrahmati, M. and Mardi, M. and Naghavi, M. R. and MajidiHeravan, E. and Nakhoda, B. and Azadi, A. and Kazemi, M.}, title = {Mapping QTLs associated with salt tolerance related traits in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)}, abstract ={Salinity stress is a major limitation in wheat production. The lack of economically viable methods for screening salinity tolerance in field is an obstacle to breeders. In this study a population of 254 recombinant inbred lines (RILs), derived from a cross between Roshan × Sabalan was assessed in glasshouse during the seedling phase in order to identify quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for salinity related traits. A genetic linkage map was constructed from 239 markers, namely, 225 Diversity Arrays Technology markers (DArTs) and 14 simple sequence repeats (SSRs) which spanned a total of 1,099.7cM. A total of 31 QTLs for salinity tolerance were identified on 13 chromosomes, contributing more than 50% of the total phenotypic variation. The frequency of Roshan and Sabalan alleles were high at loci on different homeologous groups. Most of the detected QTLs were located on chromosomes 3B, 5B among the 13 chromosomes. Two QTL related fresh weight and height of shoot were detected on 1A and 3A which explained 18% and 12.9% of the total phenotypic variation respectively. Roshan (salt tolerance) alleles were associated with an increase in all traits under both control and stress conditions. SSR markers gwm626 and gwm540 (on chromosomes 6B and 5B, respectively) were tightly linked with different QTLs under control and stress conditions, and explained 21.1% and 8.1% of the total phenotypic variance, respectively. Some of these QTL mapped to genomic regions previously associated with salt tolerance in wheat.}, Keywords = {QTL,RILs,Salinity,Seedling}, volume = {16}, Number = {6}, pages = {1413-1428}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-5467-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-5467-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Meena, N. and Mishra, V. K. and Baranwal, D. K. and Singh, A. K. and Rai, V. P. and Prasad, R. and Arun, B. and Chand, R.}, title = {Genetic Evaluation of Spring Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Recombinant Inbred Lines for Spot Blotch (Bipolaris Sorokiniana) Resistance and Yield Components under Natural Conditions for South Asia}, abstract ={The objectives of the present study were to evaluate spring wheat recombinant inbred lines (RILs) of diverse origin by estimating genetic parameters viz., variability, character association, cluster analysis, and principal component analysis (PCA) for spot blotch resistance and yield components at BHU Agricultural Research Farm during 2010-2011. Grain yield per plot was significantly and positively associated with biomass, 1,000-grain weight, harvest index, chlorophyll content, and grains per spike at genotypic level. The line 65 exhibited lowest mean of AUDPC value (632) indicating its potential as resistant parent. Cluster analysis grouped all the 324 spring wheat lines into 19 clusters using Ward’s method. Extreme divergence was observed among clusters. By using D2-statistics, the highest inter cluster distance (584.72) was found between Clusters VIII and XIX. Cluster VIII recorded highest mean values for chlorophyll content, peduncle length, bio-mass, grains per spike, 1000-grain weight and grain yield. The major contributing trait towards genetic divergence was found to be AUDPC (60.36%). First 5 principal components (PC1, PC2, PC3, PC4 and PC5) accounted for proportionate values of 20.66, 17.96, 15.07, 8.28, and 7.38%, respectively, contributing 69.35% of the total variability. The second PCs had high positive PC value for plant height, biomass, and 1,000-grain weight. The breeding objectives of the present experiment was to identify genetically diverse wheat spot blotch resistant RILs for developing high yielding spot blotch resistant cultivars especially adopted to south Asia in future breeding programs.}, Keywords = {AUDPC,Cluster Analysis,D2 analysis,PCA}, volume = {16}, Number = {6}, pages = {1429-1440}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-1787-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-1787-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Ch'ng, H. Y. and Ahmed, O. H. and Kassim, S. and Majid, N. M. A.}, title = {Recycling of Sago (Metroxylon sagu) Bagasse with Chicken Manure Slurry through Co-composting}, abstract ={Mass generation of bagasse wastes from every 100 kg of sago starch pith being processed are likely to pollute the water when they are discarded into rivers. The increase of livestock production increases manure production and improper management of these manures will pollute the soil and environment, and causing diseases outbreak. Co-composting of sago bagasse and chicken manure could serve as a viable alternative of managing these wastes. In order to reduce pollution, the objective of this study was to co-compost sago bagasse and chicken manure slurry to obtain a high quality organic fertilizer. The sago bagasse was thoroughly mixed with chicken manure slurry, chicken feed, and molasses in polystyrene boxes. Co-compost temperature readings were taken 3 times daily. Nitrogen and P concentrations increased (1.46 and 0.12%, respectively), whereas C content decreased (48.6%) throughout the co-composting. The CEC increased from 45.7 to 68.3 cmol kg-1 indicating humified organic material. By the end of co-composting, humic acid and ash contents also increased from 7.3 to 10.0% and 7.1 to 11.6%, respectively. The pH of the co-compost increased from 4.78 to 7.21. The final co-compost had no foul odour, but it had low heavy metals content, and a desired amount of nutrients. Seed germination indices of phytotoxicity test were above 80% of final co-compost. Co-compost product with balanced nutrients content can be produced by co-composting sago bagasse and chicken manure slurry.}, Keywords = {Agricultural waste management,Humic acid,Organic fertilizer,Phytotoxicity test}, volume = {16}, Number = {6}, pages = {1441-1454}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-9111-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-9111-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Vaezi, A. R. and Bahrami, H. A.}, title = {Relationship between Soil Productivity and Erodibility in Rainfed Wheat Lands in Northwestern Iran}, abstract ={ Soil erosion by water is the main factor of land degradation, particularly in semi-arid regions where soil productivity is usually low and lowering soil quality can severely decrease crops yields. This study was done in an area of 900 km2 in the semi-arid agricultural region of Hashtroud in northwestern Iran to determine the relationship between soil productivity and soil erodibility. Wheat grain yield (WGY) and soil erodibility factor (K) were measured separately at 108 plots in 36 dry-farming lands under natural rainfall conditions for a two-year period from March 2005 to March 2007. Based on the results, significant differences were observed among the lands in WGY (P< 0.001) and K (P< 0.001). These differences were attributed to variations of soil properties among the lands. There was a negative relationship between WGY and K (R2= 0.77). Multiple regression analysis indicated that both WGY and K were significantly related to aggregate stability and infiltration rate, with a determination coefficient (R2) of 0.74 and 0.90, respectively. Organic matter and calcium carbonate equivalent were the most effective soil properties that enhanced both aggregate stability and infiltration rate. The study revealed that soils with a lower percentage of water-stable aggregates and a lower infiltration rate also tended to have a higher susceptibility to erosion and a lower potential for crop production.}, Keywords = {Semi-arid region,Soil properties,Water erosion,Wheat grain yield}, volume = {16}, Number = {6}, pages = {1455-1466}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-4666-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-4666-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Mojaverian, S. M. and Rasouli, F. and Hosseini-Yekani, S. A.}, title = {Citrus Marketing Channel Strategy and Its Determinants in Mazandaran Province of Iran: An Application of Nested Logit Model}, abstract ={One of the really important challenges facing agricultural producers is the choice of their product distribution channels. The present study is aimed at investigating the citrus marketing channel strategy and its determinants among citrus orchardists of Mazandaran using a Nested Logit model. Some two hundred and fifty two orchardists from 15 cities of Mazandaran were taken as the study samples. Four distribution channels and three nests were considered in determining the factors influencing the choice of marketing channel. Since the estimated structural parameter did satisfy the condition of lying between 0 and 1, the nested logit model was proved as appropriate for the intended application. The results indicated that the orchard distance from the nearest city, orchardist’s experience, sale time, marketing costs, the kind of product and the dominant marketing channel constitute the most important factors of distribution channel selection as regards the citrus producers in Mazandaran. According to the obtained results, by increase in the orchards’ distance from the nearest city, the producers' tendency to sell their products through channels of shorter distances from buyers also increases. Also, results revealed that the older the orchardist, the higher his/her degree of risk aversion. An estimation of binomial Logit Model for the second and third nests had consistent results regarding the marketing costs. As the marketing costs increases, the orchardist’s tendency to sell his/her products through other channels of a lower marketing cost will increase. Furthermore, results revealed that as the citrus price rises, the producers get further intended to sell their products in the market rather than selecting either the pre-sale method or selling their produce to the local dealers.}, Keywords = {Citrus,Iran,Marketing channel strategy,Mazandaran,Nested logit model}, volume = {16}, Number = {7}, pages = {1469-1479}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-11728-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-11728-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Yildirim, I. and Ozsahin, S. and Okan, O. T.}, title = {Prediction of Non-Wood Forest Products Trade Using Artificial Neural Networks}, abstract ={Wood and non-wood resources in the forests have occupied a very important place in human’s life, since the advent of history. And today, developing technology along with increasing needs enhance the importance of the other functions of forests, in parallel with wood production. Both in the world and as well in Turkey, one of the featured functions of forests is the production of Non-WoodForest Products (NWFP). Certain NWFPs are of high added value and are used in many such fields as food, pharmaceutics, and as well in cosmetics. It is emphatically essential to reveal the potential of these products by conducting studies. Vast contributions could be made to a country’s economy by increasing and utilizing these potentials. With this study, it is intended to reveal the existing as well as the future return within a period of six years to the Turkish economy of NWFPs through a utilization of the foreign trade and production data of the gone years. }, Keywords = {artificial neural networks,Foreign trade,Non-wood forest products,Prediction,Turkey}, volume = {16}, Number = {7}, pages = {1481-1492}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-8251-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-8251-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Mosavi, S. H.}, title = {Positive Agricultural and Food Trade Model with Ad Valorem Tariffs}, abstract ={Interest rate Ad valorem tariffs are considered as the most prominent trade tools extensively used in the framework of Spatial Equilibrium Models (SEMs) to analyze agricultural and food trade policies around the world. However the results obtained from such models have been criticized because of their inadequacy in producing any observed data within the base period. Hence a positive spatial and temporal trade model which incorporates ad valorem tariffs was developed throughout the ongoing study. The calibrated model helps researchers to perform a substantially flawless empirical trade study in the real world. A numerical example is finally presented at the end of the article to justify the findings of the model, and to compare welfare analysis of the calibrated vs. the uncalibrated model.  }, Keywords = {Ad valorem Tariff,Agricultural Trade Model,Calibration,Spatial Equilibrium Model}, volume = {16}, Number = {7}, pages = {1481-1492}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-1853-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-1853-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Fekrat, L. and Manzari, S. and Shishehbor, P.}, title = {Morphometric and Molecular Variation in Thrips tabaci Lindeman (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) Populations on Onion and Tobacco in Iran}, abstract ={Onion thrips, Thrips tabaci Lindeman, is a broadly distributed pest that attacks a wide range of crops. To investigate the intra-specific morphometric variation and the genetic diversity of the species in Iran, four populations from tobacco plus 18 populations from onion were studied in some 17 provinces of Iran. Morphological analysis, using principal components and canonical discriminant analyses indicated that the populations living on tobacco were significantly different from those living on onion. DNA sequence data for the COI gene was obtained for all the populations including some other 21 population sequences retrieved from the GenBank database. Maximum parsimony analyses revealed the distinct clades of T. tabaci on tobacco and on onion with the exception of one population collected from tobacco grown in Golestan Province. The results were identical for maximum likelihood and neighbor-joining analyses. Both molecular and morphometric analyses show heterogenecity of T. tabaci populations representing at least two different biotypes on tobacco and on onion.}, Keywords = {Molecular analysis,Morphometrics,Onion,Thrips tabaci,Tobacco}, volume = {16}, Number = {7}, pages = {1505-1516}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-6029-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-6029-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Borji, F. and Rahmani, H. and Schausberger, P.}, title = {Repeatability of Aggressiveness against Con-and Heterospecific Prey in the Predatory Mite Neoseiulus californicus (Acari: Phytoseiidae)}, abstract ={Repeatability, (the consistency with which a given trait is expressed) of aggressiveness against prey (attack latency) in gravid females of the predatory mite Neoseiulus californicus (McGregor) was examined. In two experiments, prey - conspecific individuals, the onion thrips Thrips tabaci (Lindeman), and the two-spotted spider mite Tetranychus urticae Koch- were repeatedly offered in various no-choice vs. choice situations. Throughout the first experiment, the predators were offered conspecific larvae twice, alone and then together with Te. urticae. In a second experiment, the predators were alternately offered Te. urticae and Th. tabaci within choice vs. no-choice situations. Latency to the first successful attack (resulting in death and consumption of prey) was recorded as aggressiveness. In the first experiment, Pearson’s r indicated that the predators were consistent in aggressiveness against conspecific prey. Additionally, latency to attack conspecific larvae and Te. urticae were strongly correlated when the former were offered alone and the latter offered together with conspecific larvae. In the second experiment, aggressiveness against spider mites and thrips was inconsistent, non-repeatable and varied among contexts. However, Te. urticae was attacked more quickly when offered second, following the first prey Th. tabaci than when offered as the first prey. Both experiments, in concert, suggest that the level of behavioral consistency of N. californicus in aggressiveness against prey is strongly context-dependent. Further in-depth studies are needed to determine which foraging traits, (and why and under what circumstances) are more repeatable than others.}, Keywords = {Aggressiveness,Cannibalism,Consistency,Neoseiulus californicus,Repeatability}, volume = {16}, Number = {7}, pages = {1517-1528}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-3277-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-3277-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {CelikAtes, H. and GokceCakal, Z.}, title = {Views of Extension Personnel on Extension Methods and Transition to Private Extension: The Case of Isparta Province}, abstract ={Criticism of public extension services has resulted in various countries seeking alternative approaches for provision of these services. In all these approaches, extension personnel are the key factors to the success of the implementation. Today, agricultural extension services in Turkey bear the responsibility of the Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Livestock. A number of non-public extension activities, on a very small scale, and in limited regions are being administered by various entities. The present study aims at determining the extension methods used by extension personnel in practice along with their views and evaluations of extension systems (public-private). A number of 103 extension personnel were contacted and then included in the survey. Absolute and proportional distribution, independence test (Chi-square) and Multiple Correspondence Analysis (MCA) were employed to analyze data obtained from the received questionnaires. It was observed that mostly individual and group extension methods were used, with young personnel preferring the individual method, while the others preferring the group model. Although 54.37% of the extension personnel in Isparta believed that extension services should be privatized, 32.14% were of the belief that extension should continue as a public service. }, Keywords = {Extension,Extension methods,Extension personnel}, volume = {16}, Number = {7}, pages = {1529-1541}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-6633-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-6633-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Jahani-Azizabadi, H. and DaneshMesgaran, M. and Vakili, A. and Rezayazdi, K.}, title = {Effect of Some Plant Essential Oils on In vitro Ruminal Methane Production and on Fermentation Characteristics of a Mid-forage Diet}, abstract ={The objective of the present study was to investigate the effect of different doses of some 7 natural semi-arid medicinal plants’ essential oils on in vitro ruminal digestion and fermentation patterns of a mid-forage (alfalfa hay: concentrates, 1:1) diet. Treatments consisted of either basal diet alone (control) or added with 35, 70, 140 or 280 µl L-1 of coriander, oregano, caraway, cumin, cinnamon, pistachio hull and thyme essential oils, incubated for 24 hours at 38.7ºC. The essential oils of cinnamon and pistachio applied as 280 µl L-1 and thyme applied at 140 and 280 µl L-1 caused a decrease in DM disappearance as compared with control. Thyme and pistachio essential oils (used at 280 µl L-1) resulted in a decrease of NDF disappearance, while caraway (70 µl L-1) and cumin (140 µl L-1) resulted in an increase in it (14.8% and +18.2%, respectively). Relative to control, the essential oils applied, did not significantly affect the medium N-NH3 concentration (except thyme at 140 and 280 µl L-1), pH (except thyme and cumin essential oils, 6.41 and 6.22 vs. 6.3, respectively), gas produced (except thyme at 280 µl L-1) and Feed Fermentation Efficiency (FFE). Relative to control, addition of all the essential oils resulted in a decrease of CP disappearance and CH4 (except for cumin) production as Mm-1 incubated. Findings revealed that these essential oils may allow manipulation of rumen microbial fermentation.}, Keywords = {Essential oil,In vitro,Methane,Rumen}, volume = {16}, Number = {7}, pages = {1543-1554}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-1814-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-1814-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Abouelezz, F. M. K. and Sarmiento-Franco, L. and Santos-Ricalde, R. and Segura-Correa, J.}, title = {Use of the Outdoor Range and Activities of Rhode Island Red Hens Grazing on Natural Vegetation in the Tropics}, abstract ={The aim of this study was to investigate the range utilization of Rhode Island Red hens, grazing outdoor (under tropical conditions) and to scan their activities inside the house as well as during their outdoor visits. The activities of RIR hens, raised in indoor floor pens connected with outdoor areas covered with natural vegetation, were scanned and recorded individually within 15 minute intervals between 08:00 and 17:00 hours (37 scans a day) for a duration of twelve weeks. The results revealed that, 40.5% of the hens were observed to be on the range at each scanning time; where they engaged their outdoor visits in foraging (11.4%), exploring (8.62%), roaming (6.1%), standing (3.5%), primping (5.6%) and resting (5.4%). Besides, the utilization of the closest part of the range to the house was significantly the highest in comparison with the middle and farthest parts (73.0 vs. 24.9 and 2.1%, respectively), and the highest (P< 0.05) average utilization of the range was recorded during the early day hours, versus the midday and late day hours. In total, 24 meters apart from the house forms the most adequate distance for free range RIR hens while longer distances would rarely be visited. The grazing RIR hens (in the tropics) utilized the outdoor area effectively and performed natural behavior.}, Keywords = {Behavior,Free range,Range utilization,Rhode Island Red,Tropical forage}, volume = {16}, Number = {7}, pages = {1555-1563}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-7260-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-7260-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {BahramiBabaheydari, S. and Dorafshan, S. and PaykanHeyrati, F. and MahboobiSoofiani, N. and Vahabi, M. R.}, title = {The Physiological Changes, Growth Performance and Whole Body Composition of Common Carp, Cyprinus carpio Fed on Diet Containing Wood Betony, Stachys lavandulifolia Extract}, abstract ={The Effect of different levels of Wood Betony (WB), Stachys lavandulifolia extract, as complement in feed, on the performance of common carp, Cyprinus carpio was evaluated. The fish (44±0.62 g) was assigned to four treatments, three replicates each. The fish was fed on normal diet with no WB (control) vs. diet containing 2, 4 and 8% of WB extract. Fish were successively fed on the diet, 2% live body weight, three daily for 70 days. The results revealed that final weight, mean weight gain and specific growth rate were significantly improved by increasing WBlevels in the diet. The highest growth performance and the lowest feed conversion ratio were recorded for 8%WBtreatment. No significant changes were observed in the proximate whole body composition among different groups. Hemoglobin content and hematocrit value increased significantly in the second group in comparison with the others (P< 0.05). The highest serum total protein (5.05±1.4 g dl-1) and globulin (2.47±0.3 g dl-1) were recorded in the fish fed on the highest dose of WB (8%). Inclusion of 2% of WB in the diet reduced serum triglycerides (317.44±89 mg dl-1) and cholesterol (141.51±35 mg dl-1) in comparison with control (P< 0.05). It could be concluded that feeding common carp with the diet enriched with WB extract could enhance growth rate, improve some hematological and biochemical characteristics with no adverse effects on body composition. }, Keywords = {Carcass quality,Cyprinus carpio,Growth performance,Medicinal herb}, volume = {16}, Number = {7}, pages = {1565-1574}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-3244-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-3244-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {RanjbarNedamani, E. and SadeghiMahoonak, A. and Ghorbani, M. and Kashaninejad, M.}, title = {Antioxidant Properties of Individual vs. Combined Extracts of Rosemary Leaves and Oak Fruit}, abstract ={The aim followed in the present study was to evaluate the antioxidant activity of individual vs. combined extracts of rosemary leaves and oak fruit to detect the possible interactions in their antioxidant activity following combination and in order to find a way to use oak fruit natural antioxidants as an available massive source in Iran. Towards this end, methanolic extracts of rosemary and oak fruit were prepared and antioxidant activity of individual vs. combined extracts evaluated through 2,2-Di Phenyl-1-Picryl Hydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging activity, Total AntiOxidant Capacity (TAOC), reducing power assays as well as peroxide value measurement in soybean oil. Rosemary extract revealed a significantly (P< 0.05) higher antioxidant activity than the extract of oak and than the synthetic antioxidant BHT taken as standard. In combined samples, all the three kinds of interactions were observed namely: as additive effect at 50 and 150 µg ml-1 in DPPH assay, synergistic effect at 150 and 200 µg ml-1 in total antioxidant capacity assay and antagonistic effect in the process of peroxide value measurement in soybean oil. In the peroxide value measurement assay, antioxidant activity of the combined extract was significantly (P< 0.05) higher than those of the individual extracts and that of BHT. Thus, the combined extracts of oak and rosemary can be used as natural sources’ to replace such synthetic antioxidants as BHT to either alleviate or prevent the oxidation process in vegetable oils.}, Keywords = {Antioxidant activity,Oak,Rosemary,Synergistic effect}, volume = {16}, Number = {7}, pages = {1575-1586}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-6285-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-6285-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Sedaghati, M. and Ezzatpanah, H. and MashhadiAkbarBoojar, M. and TajabadiEbrahimi, M.}, title = {β-lactoglobulin and α-lactalbumin Hydrolysates as Sources of Antibacterial Peptides}, abstract ={The presence of antibacterial activity in bovine β-lactoglobulin and in α-lactalbumin hydrolysates was investigated. The Plasmin-Digest of β-lactoglobulin (PDβ) and of α-lactalbumin (PDα) were fractionated, using reversed phase high performance liquid chromatography. The antibacterial activity of β-lactoglobulin, α-lactalbumin, nisin, plasmin, PDβ and PDα were in vitro tested against pathogenic (Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus) and probiotic (Lactobacillus casei and Lactobacillus acidophilus) bacteria. Although α-lactalbumin, β-lactoglobulin and plasmin exhibited no antibacterial activity, PDβ, PDα and nisin revealed antibacterial activity against the bacteria tested. The Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) of these compounds was determined for the bacteria cultures. Similar to nisin, the MIC of PDβ and of PDα against Gram-positive bacteria was recorded as considerably lower than the MICs against Gram-negative bacteria. The study also evaluated the effect of PDβ, PDα and nisin on the growth curves and on the plate count confirmations of the target bacteria. The results revealed that nisin, PDβ and PDα have inhibitory effects on the lag phase, maximum OD620 and on plate count confirmation of the bacteria tested. The maximum inhibitory effect of these compounds was created during the log phase. Their inhibitory effects depended upon their concentrations, higher concentration causing stronger antibacterial activity. The PDβ and PDα proved more active against Gram-negative bacteria than did nisin, but nisin revealed substantial inhibitory activity against Gram-positive bacteria.}, Keywords = {α-lactalbumin,Antibacterial,β-lactoglobulin,Bovine,Plasmin}, volume = {16}, Number = {7}, pages = {1587-1600}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-2549-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-2549-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Faramarzi, Sh. and Yadollahi, A. and Barzegar, M. and Sadraei, K. and Pacifico, S. and Jemric, T.}, title = {Comparison of Phenolic Compounds’ Content and Antioxidant Activity between Some Native Iranian Apples and Standard Cultivar \'Gala\'}, abstract ={To determine the phenolic content and antioxidant activity in some native Iranian apple cultivars, some five cultivars namely: 'Bekran', 'Golab-e Kermanshah', 'Golab-e Kohanz' 'Golab-e Sheikhi' and 'Atlasi' were selected and compared with the standard cultivar 'Gala'. The profiles related to four phenolic compounds (chlorogenic acid, quercetin-3-galactoside, catechin, and phloridzin) were determined through HPLC for flesh and flesh+peel of the studied cultivars. Total Phenolic Content (TPC) through Folin-ciocalteu, and antioxidant activity applying DPPH radical (IC50) were also evaluated for flesh vs. flesh+peel for each cultivar. The results of HPLC analysis revealed that catechin constituted the main phenolic compound of flesh and as well the flesh+peel in all the studied cultivars. The highest catechin concentrations in flesh+peel and in flesh were detected in 'Golab-e Kermanshah' (4,064.37 ug g-1 FW) and 'Bekran' (2,315.92 ug g-1 FW), recpectively. The second high concentration phenolic compound was quercetin-3 galactoside, with 'Atlasi' containing the highest content (833.96 ug g-1 FW). A high level of chlorogenic acid was detected in 'Golab-e Sheikhi' (276.106 ug. g-1 FW). The highest level of Total Phenolic Index (TPI) was observed in 'Golab-e Kermanshah' (4392.81ug g-1 FW). The highest TPCs were detected in 'Golab-e Kermanshah' and 'Atlasi'. Phenolic compounds were found as less abundant in the flesh than in the flesh+peel. The scavenging activity of DPPH radical (IC50) revealed a higher antioxidant effect in flesh+peel than in (only) flesh. It can be concluded that in comparison with 'Gala', native Iranian cultivars contained higher concentrations of phenolic compounds, making them appropriate for use in breeding and being reintroduced into the production cycle. Also, it was revealed that whole fruit (flesh+peel) provides phytochemicals in levels far greater than the amounts provided by the fruit’s (only) flesh.}, Keywords = {fruit quality,Iranian apple germplasm,Malus×domestica Borkh,phenolic compounds}, volume = {16}, Number = {7}, pages = {1601-1611}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-80-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-80-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Forouzan, Sh. and Madadlou, A.}, title = {Incidence of Patulin in Apple Juices Produced in West Azerbayjan Province, Iran}, abstract ={Food safety is a global concern due to an increasing awareness of consumers concerning exposure of foods to chemicals and contamination with such hazardous biochemicals as dioxins, mycotoxins, pesticides, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, drugs and hormones. Patulin is one of the most injurious mycotoxins produced by a variety of molds, particularly Aspergillus and Penicillium species. Based on valid international standards, a maximum permitted level of patulin is 50 µg L-1 in fruit products. In the present study, patulin content of seventy two apple juice samples from West Azerbayjan Province of Iran was determined through High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Results revealed the contamination of all the analyzed samples with toxin at a mean content of 48.64 µg L-1. Almost 29% of samples were contaminated with a dose more than 50 µg L-1 of patulin. Implementation of appropriate agricultural, as well as, technical practices in apple juice preparation factories of the region is recommended, in order to decrease the contamination level and its deleterious risks.}, Keywords = {Apple juice,HPLC,Iran,Incidence,Patulin}, volume = {16}, Number = {7}, pages = {1613-1622}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-8819-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-8819-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Emami, Sh. and Azadmard-Damirchi, S. and Hesari, J. and Peighambardoust, S. H. and Ramezani, Y. and Nemati, M. and Esmaili, M. and Rafat, S. A.}, title = {Production of Butter Incorporated with Hazelnut Powder}, abstract ={World consumption of butter has declined over the last decades partly due to its physical limitations and partly due to its poor nutritionalproperties. In this study, the effect of hazelnut addition on the properties of butter, was evaluated taking into account that hazelnut is a source of unsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants. Powdered hazelnut was added to butter at 3 levels (10, 20 and 30 percent w/w). The butter samples were then kept in refrigerator for 4 weeks. The acid and peroxide values, oxidative stability, fatty acid profile, tocopherol content as well as sensory characteristics of hazelnut added butter samples were determined and compared with those of control as during cold storage. Results revealed that hazelnut fortified butter samples bore higher acid values vs. lower peroxide value, as well as oxidative stability values than the control samples. Both acid values, and peroxide values increased in all the samples throughout storage. The concentration of unsaturated fatty acids, including essential fatty acids were recorded as significantly higher (P<­ 0.05) in the fortified butter samples. The contents of α- and γ,β-tocopherol were also higher for the fortified samples, however, their levels especially the level of α-tocopherol, decreased during storage. Sensory evaluation showed no significant difference (P­>­ 0.05) between fortified vs. control samples in terms of either the overall acceptance or any undesirable flavor characteristics. This study introduces a new functional dairy product that can be a step forward towards the modification of butter nutritional drawbacks through an increase in its essential fatty acids as well as antioxidant constituents.}, Keywords = {Butter,Fatty acids,Hazelnut,Sensory characteristics,Tocopherol}, volume = {16}, Number = {7}, pages = {1623-1632}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-337-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-337-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Alam, M. A. and Juraimi, A. S. and Rafii, M. Y. and Hamid, A. Abdul and Aslani, F. and Mohsin, G. M.}, title = {A Comparison of Yield Potential and Cultivar Performance of 20 Collected Purslane (Portulaca oleracea L.) Accessions Employing Seeds vs. Stem Cuttings}, abstract ={A glasshouse experiment was conducted in Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) to evaluate the regeneration and yield potential in purslane using both seeds and stem cuttings of 20 collected accessions from different locations in Western Peninsular Malaysia. Analysis results revealed significant variations (P< 0.05) for morphological traits viz., plant height, number of main branches, number of nodes, internodal distance, stem diameter, number of leaves, leaf area, number of flowers, root length, fresh and dry weight but no significant difference were observed for physiological traits viz., total chlorophyll, net photosynthesis, stomatal conductance, transpiration, water vapor deficit and for either major micro or macro minerals. Hope our research findings will eliminate the doubt of using cutting methods for purslane propagation and cultivation among producers and consumers and will promote their determination to follow purslane production in this summer at any season and anywhere. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first attempt to evaluate and to detect any significant variations arising in morphological, physiological, and especially mineral nutrition in purslane propagated through cuttings vs. through seeds.}, Keywords = {Mineral nutrition,Morphological and physiological traits,Portulaca oleracea L,Purslane,Regeneration}, volume = {16}, Number = {7}, pages = {1633-1648}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-7641-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-7641-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Zhao, X. and Yuan, Z. and Fang, Y. and Yin, Y. and Feng, L.}, title = {Flavonols and Flavones Changes in Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) Fruit Peel during Fruit Development}, abstract ={Four Chinese pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) cultivars were analyzed for their individual flavonols and flavones (in fruit peel extracts) using High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), with changes in flavonols and flavones as occurring during fruit development. The results revealed the presence of kaempferol, quercetin, myricetin, luteolin, and apigenin in all the four cultivars. In addition, the concentrations of flavonols were found out as always higher than those of the flavones in different cultivars and throughout the different fruit developmental phases. Kaempferol was the most prominent flavonol in Hongbaoshi, Lvbaoshi and Shuijingtian, while myricetin the major and dominant flavonol in Moshiliu. The pattern of kaempferol was similar to quercetin in each individual cultivar, but quite differing among the four cultivars. The level of luteolin was higher than that of apigenin in all the cultivars. During test course, similar change patterns for luteolin and apigenin were revealed in each individual cultivar. This is the first report regarding the flavonols and flavones concentration changes in pomegranate peel extracts. The results indicated that the changes in flavonols and flavones were significantly affected by cultivar and its developmental stages. Moshiliu proved to be an excellent pomegranate cultivar with rich flavonol contents. It can be further studied for its potential uses being more fully exploited.}, Keywords = {Change patterns,Flavones,Flavonols,Pomegranate}, volume = {16}, Number = {7}, pages = {1649-1659}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-9928-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-9928-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Aien, A. and Pal, M. and Khetarpal, S. and KumarPandey, S.}, title = {Impact of Elevated Atmospheric CO2 Concentration on the Growth, and Yield in Two Potato Cultivars}, abstract ={Concentration of CO2 in the atmosphere is likely to increase up to 550 µmol mol-1 by the middle of 21st century. Such an increase in the atmospheric CO2 would affect plant growth, and as well the productivity of crop plants. A field experiment was conducted with two potato cultivars namely Kufri Surya and Kufri Chipsona-3 grown inside Open Top Chambers (OTCs) at ambient (385±30 µmol mol-1) vs. elevated CO2 (570±50 µmol mol-1) levels during rabi (winter) season of the year 2009-2010. The photosynthetic rate significantly increased in both cultivars when under high CO2 concentration, with the enhancement being more in Kufri Chipsona-3 than in Kufri Surya. There were significantly increased accumulations of reducing, non-reducing and total sugars observed in the leaves of both cultivars as due to CO2 enrichment. Crop Growth Rate (CGR) and Tuber Growth Rate (TGR), in both cultivars, were recorded higher in plants grown under elevated CO2 as compared with the ambient CO2 content. High CO2 increased the partitioning of dry matter towards the tubers at all the harvesting stages. Potato plants grown under elevated CO2 exhibited increased tuber yield due to the enhanced number of tubers per plant. At the final harvest, total tuber fresh weight was by 36% higher, under high CO2 treatments, as compared with that in the ambient. The response of K. Chipsona-3 was more pronounced, to elevated CO2 concentration, as compared with K. Surya. It is concluded that rising atmospheric CO2 in the future climatic change scenario may be beneficial to such tuber crops like potato to enhance growth as well as tuber number and finally yield.}, Keywords = {Dry matter partitioning,Elevated CO2,Photosynthesis,Potato,Sugars,Yield}, volume = {16}, Number = {7}, pages = {1661-1670}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-4377-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-4377-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Fahad, S. and MasoudAhmad, Kh. and AkbarAnjum, M. and Hussain, S.}, title = {The Effect of Micronutrients (B, Zn and Fe) Foliar Application on the Growth, Flowering and Corm Production of Gladiolus (Gladiolus grandiflorus L.) in Calcareous Soils}, abstract ={Gladiolus (Gladiolus grandiflorus L.) is one of the most widely cultivated, economically important and common flowering plants worldwide including Pakistan. However, its yield of flower is quite low when grown under agro-climatic conditions of Multan. A field experiment was conducted at the Experimental Area, Department of Horticulture, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan (Pakistan), during 2010-2012 to investigate the effect of micronutrients (B, Zn and Fe) on growth, flower yield and quality of gladiolus cv. Traderhorn. Eight treatments comprised of either each micronutrient alone or a combination of Fe, B and Zn were applied. Corms were planted within the first week of November 2010, and 2011 on 60 cm apart ridges with 20 cm distance allowed within rows. Twenty corms were planted in each treatment, of three replicates. Micronutrient sprays were applied at 30 and 60 Days After Planting (DAP). Application of the micronutrients significantly increased plant height, leaf chlorophyll content, flower stalk length, flower fresh weight, spike length, florets per spike, florets’ fresh weight and diameter, flower vase-life, flower diameter as well as fresh weight of corms. Leaf number and days to spike emergence were only influenced by a combined application of all the three micronutrients. Among the micronutrient treatments, the treatment containing FeSO4.7H2O, H3BO3 and ZnSO4.7H2O (all at 2% level) performed the best for all the parameters except for number of corm per plant, which was not affected significantly by the foliar application of the micronutrients.}, Keywords = {Boron,Iron,Number of florets per spike,Spike length,Vase life,Zinc}, volume = {16}, Number = {7}, pages = {1671-1682}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-4501-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-4501-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Mohajer, S. and Taha, R. M.}, title = {Observations on the Cytology and Karyogram of an Onobrychis viciifolia Scop. New Variety in Callus, In vivo and In vitro Cultures}, abstract ={Genus Onobrychis is an important forage crop consisting of approximately 130 annual and perennial species. The present research focused on the cytological studies of Embryogenic (E) and Non-Embryogenic (NE) callus as well as root meristem cells of in vitro and in vivo grown plants. On the contrary to the previous studies, a diploid viciifolia variety with 2n= 2x= 16 chromosomes was observed for the first time in Onobrychis viciifolia ScopSyn. Onobrychis sativa L. Mitotic division was in general regular for all the growth conditions, but some such division irregularities as cytomixis, binucleate cells, micronucleus, asynchronous nucleus and chromosome bridge were also observed particularly in non-embryogenic callus samples. Ratio of nuclear to cell area of callus was slightly less than those in in vivo and in vitro values. Polyploidy level of DNA (C-value) was only indicated in callus. G1 had the highest percentage of nucleus among different stages of the interphase in in vitro and in vivo growth cultures. Karyotypic formula was 10 m+6 sm and a secondary constriction was distinguished in the short arm of the second pair chromosomes. Ultimately, scanning electron microscopy was employed to differentiate between root cells of the in vitro and in vivo growth systems.}, Keywords = {Callus,Mitotic,Karyotype,Onobrychis viciifolia,Polyploidy}, volume = {16}, Number = {7}, pages = {1683-1698}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-2640-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-2640-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {SalahiArdakani, A. and TanhaMafi, Z. and Mokaram, A. and MohammadiGoltapeh, E.}, title = {Relationship between Soil Properties and Abundance of Tylenchulus semipenetrans in Citrus Orchards, Kohgilouyeh va Boyerahmad Province}, abstract ={To understand the relationship between natural physicochemical properties of soil and abundance of citrus root nematode (Tylenchulus semipenetrans), a survey was conducted during 2009-2010 in some 37 citrus orchards, in Kohgilouyeh va Boyerahmad Province, Iran. Distribution of the citrus nematode was determined by collecting random samples from the soil and citrus plant roots, extracting and enumerating the number of second stage juveniles, males/100 g of soil and females/5 g of root. The relationships between nematode population, and the factors of: organic matter content, Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), Potassium (K), organic carbon, Calcium Carbonate, soil texture, Electrical Conductivity (EC) and pH were determined. Increase in nematode population density was observed by increasing soil saturation percentage (up to 43%), and by an increase in soil silt, sand, P, K and organic carbon, but by an increase in soil salinity, Calcium Carbonate, total Nitrogen and the amount of clay in soil, the nematode population decreased. Maximum nematode population density was recorded in a loamy soil texture. The most suitable soil pH for nematode activity was found almost seven while either an increase or decrease in soil pH, resulted in a decrease in nematode population. The number of second stage juveniles ranged from 58 to 2,730/100 g of soil while females were present by 11 to 331 individuals/g of root respectively. About 62% of the studied orchards were infested with T. semipenetrans.}, Keywords = {Citrus nematode,Nematode population,Soil properties}, volume = {16}, Number = {7}, pages = {1699-1710}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-7281-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-7281-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} } @article{ author = {Masoudi, M.}, title = {Risk Assessment of Vegetation Degradation Using GIS}, abstract ={The entire land in the Southern Iran faces problems arising out of various types of land degradation, of which the vegetation type forms one of the major ones. The Payab basin (522,470 ha), which covers the lower reaches of Mond River, was chosen for a test risk assessment of this type. The different kinds of data for indicators of vegetation degradation were taken from the records and published reports of Iran governmental offices. A new model was developed for assessing the risk of vegetation degradation. Taking into consideration nine indicators of vegetation degradation, the model identifies areas with ‘Potential Risk’ (risky zones) and areas of ‘Actual Risk’ projecting the probability of the worse degradation in future. The preparation of risk maps, based on the GIS analysis of these indicators will be helpful for prioritizing the areas to initiate remedial measures. A hazard map for each indicator was first prepared in GIS by fixing the thresholds of severity classes of the indicators. The risk classes were defined on the basis of risk scores arrived at by assigning the appropriate attributes to the indicators and the risk map prepared by overlaying some nine hazard maps in the GIS. Areas under actual risk were found to be widespread (93%) in the basin and when the risk map classified into subclasses of potential risk with different probability levels the model would project a statistical picture of the risk of vegetation degradation.}, Keywords = {Actual risk,GIS,Indicator,Potential risk,Vegetation degradation}, volume = {16}, Number = {7}, pages = {1711-1722}, publisher = {Tarbiat Modares University}, url = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-6948-en.html}, eprint = {http://jast.modares.ac.ir/article-23-6948-en.pdf}, journal = {Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology}, issn = {1680-7073}, eissn = {2345-3737}, year = {2014} }