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Background and Objectives: The brown snail is a major pest affecting citrus orchards in Iran. Using chemical pesticides can contaminate the air, water, and nearby crops. Due to the emergence of pest resistance to chemical toxins and their harmful and destructive effects on human health and the environment, one of the methods to control snails is to evaluate the activity and inhibition of their digestive enzymes. α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes are key enzymes in the digestive system, and their inhibition is crucial in biotechnology. Using natural sources as inhibitors for these two enzymes is a new goal due to fewer side effects than chemical inhibitors. The purpose of this study was to use the essential oils of thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.), lavender (Lavandula angustifolia Mill.), and marjoram (Origanum vulgare L.) plants from the mint family to inhibit these two enzymes of the digestive gland of the brown snail. Materials and Methods: In this study, α -amylase and α -glucosidase enzymes were extracted from brown citrus snails. The digestive glands were isolated from snails in starvation conditions. The enzyme extract was prepared after homogenization and centrifugation methods at 4 °C. Kinetic parameters and activity of α-amylase and α-glucosidase measured in the enzyme extract were measured. The total amount of proteins in the crude extract was measured by the Bradford method. The essential oil was prepared using a Clevenger apparatus. The activities and kinetic parameters of α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes in crude extract were measured in the presence of different concentrations of the essential oils of T. vulgaris, L. angustifolia and O. vulgare. α-amylase enzyme activity was measured according to Bernfeld's method at a fixed concentration of the starch solution, essential oils (0.1-6 mg/ml) and 250 µl of the enzyme extract. The total volume was 2.5 ml in each experiment. α-glucosidase enzyme activity was determined based on the method of Siegentaler and Low with a slight change. In each experiment, different amounts of the essential oils (0.25-5 mg/ml) were incubated with the enzyme extract (15 µl) and para-nitrophenyl alpha-diglucopyranoside (20 µl). The total volume was 200 µl. Results: The amount of protein in the crude enzyme extract was 0.2 mg/ml. The α-amylase activity was obtained at 0.278 U/ml, and the specific activity was 1.39 U/mg. The Km and Vmax values for α-amylase were measured as 0.13 mg/ml and 0.062 mg/ml/min, respectively. The α-glucosidase activity was obtained at 0.4 U/ml, and the specific activity was 2 U/mg. The IC50 values for the α-amylase in the presence of essential oils of T. vulgaris, and L. angustifolia., and O. vulgare were obtained at 2.462, 0.2816, and 0.114 mg/ml, and for α-glucosidase was obtained at 0.741, 2.036, and 1.668/ml, respectively. The GC-MS analysis found that the main constituents of the essential oils of T. vulgaris, L. angustifolia and O. vulgare were Carvacrol, D-Camphor, and Terpinene-4-ol, respectively. The essential oil of O. vulgare acted as an α-amylase inhibitor, and the thyme essential oil acted as an α-glucosidase inhibitor. Our experiments showed that the essential oil of L. angustifolia competitively inhibited the α-amylase. On the other hand, O. vulgare essential oil can act as an effective competitive inhibitor for the α-glucosidase. Therefore, compounds of D-Camphor and Terpineol, which are the main components of L. angustifolia and O. vulgare essential oils, are effective competitive inhibitors for α-amylase and α-glucosidase of the snail. Discussion: Citrus snail is one of the most significant pests of agricultural products, which damages all kinds of citrus cultivars in gardens and nurseries by feeding on leaves, stems, fruits, and tree bark. Iran's rich pharmaceutical plant flora contains diverse compounds, including volatile ones like essential oils, which can be explored for their medicinal, insecticidal, fungicidal, and other properties. According to the literature, the snails have more than 20 types of carbohydrases. α-amylase and glucosidase are key enzymes in carbohydrate digestion and metabolism in insects that hydrolyze starch and glycogen. Our results showed that essential oils of T. vulgaris, L. angustifolia and O. vulgare or their active components can be proposed as environmentally friendly, low-cost, and accessible sources for the production of effective inhibitors against α-amylase and α-glucosidase of brown citrus snail. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the chemical composition, antioxidant properties, and antimicrobial activity of Tanacetum balsamita L. essential oil. The essential oil was extracted using the water distillation method, and then the total phenolic content (using the Folin -Ciocalteu method), total flavonoid content (using the aluminium chloride colorimetric method), antioxidant activity (using DPPH and ABTS free radical scavenging methods), and antimicrobial activity (using disk diffusion agar, well diffusion agar, minimum inhibitory concentration, and minimum bactericidal concentration methods) were evaluated. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents of the essential oil were found to be 29.50 mg gallic acid equivalent per gram and 14.90 mg quercetin equivalent per gram, respectively. The essential oil exhibited significant antioxidant activity, with the ability to scavenge 50.40% and 53.55% of free radicals DPPH and ABTS, respectively. According to the results of disc diffusion agar method, Bacillus subtilis and Salmonella typhi were the most sensitive and resistant bacterial strains, respectively, with zone of inhibition diameters of 16 mm and 10.50 mm. The zone of inhibition diameters for these bacteria in the well diffusion agar method were obtained as 16.30 mm and 10.80 mm, respectively. The minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration for B. subtilis were determined as 4 mg/mL and 32 mg/mL, respectively, and for S. typhi, they were 64 mg/mL and greater than 512 mg/mL, respectively. According to the results, T. balsamita essential oil can be used as a natural antioxidant and antimicrobial agent in food products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine the total phenol and flavonoid content and investigate the antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of Perovskia abrotanoides essential oil. The total phenol content was determined using the Folin Ciocalteu method, the total flavonoid content using the colorimetric aluminum chloride method, the antioxidant potential using the DPPH and ABTS free radical inhibition methods, and the antimicrobial activity using the disc diffusion agar, well diffusion agar, minimum inhibitory concentration, and minimum bactericidal concentration methods. The total phenol, total flavonoid, DPPH free radical inhibition, and ABTS free radical inhibition of the essential oil were found to be 24.26 mg of gallic acid per gram, 13.15 mg of quercetin per gram, 52.49%, and 56.79%, respectively. The antimicrobial results showed that the antimicrobial effect of the essential oil was higher against Gram -positive bacteria than Gram -negative types, and Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella typhi were the most sensitive and resistant microbial strains against P. abrotanoides essential oil, respectively. The diameter of the growth inhibition zone in the disc diffusion agar and well diffusion agar tests, as well as the minimum inhibitory and bactericidal concentrations for S. aureus, were 16.50 mm, 17.30 mm, 2 mg/mL, and 128 mg/mL, respectively, and these values for S. typhi were 7.60 mm, 9.20 mm, 16 mg/mL, and 512 mg/mL, respectively. In general, P. abrotanoides essential oil can be used as a natural antioxidant and antimicrobial compound. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of chitosan coating and Ferulago angulate essential oil on button mushroom (Agaricus Bisporous) shelf life. Therefore, Ferulago angulate essential oil was extracted by clevenger method and whit different concentrations of chitosan (control sample without chitosan and essential oil, with 0.5% chitosan, chitosan with two different concentrations of 100 and 150 ppm) were used to coating the mushroom samples. After packing, the samples were stored in the refrigerator at 4°C for 15 days and samples were evaluated for physicochemical, structural and sensory tests every 3 days. With increasing shelf life, the hardness of all coated samples decreased and addition of chitosan to samples could have a positive effect on increase the hardness of the samples during storage, which was significantly increased by adding Ferulago angulate essential oil. All color parameters were significantly retained (P<0.05) By adding chitosan which the addition of essential oils exacerbated these conditions. Using the chitosan significantly (p<0.05) reduced the weight loss of samples, but the addition of essential oil had no significant effect on reducing weight loss changes. The use of chitosan significantly (p <0.05) prevented the growth of total count of microorganism and molds and yeasts, and the addition of essential oil to chitosan as a preservative compound also exacerbated the inhibition of microorganism growth. Similar results were also true for color and appearance evaluation. Chitosan structure, antimicrobial properties and phenolic compounds in essential oils were the main reason for maintaining the quality of mushroom samples during storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Water deficit stress, permanent or temporary, limits the growth and distribution of natural vegetation and the performance of cultivated plants more than any other environmental factors. Methods: To investigate the effect of water absorption, drought stress and chemical fertilizers on Mint, this experiment was conducted in 2019 at the Research Institute of Forests and Rangelands, in Karaj, Iran. The experiment was conducted as a split factorial experiment in the form of a randomized complete block design with three replications. The main factor was water absorption in two levels (use and no use) and the sub-factors were drought stress in three levels (90%FC, 60%FC and 30%FC) and chemical fertilizers (nitrogen and phosphor) in four levels (N0P0, N0P150, N300P0 and N300P150 kg/ha). Results: A mean comparison of the interactions of the super adsorbent treatments with stress and chemical fertilizers indicated that the highest leaf yield was achieved with the use of super adsorbent*90%FC*N300P0. Application of super adsorbent*90%FC*N0P150 had the highest inflorescence yield. A mean comparison of the interaction between super adsorbent, drought stress and chemical fertilizers indicated that the highest leaf essential oil percentage (2.9 %) was achieved in the treatment without super adsorbent*30%FC*N300P150. The use of super adsorbent*90%FC*N0P150 had the highest leaf essential oil yield. Mean comparison of the interaction between super adsorbent, drought stress and chemical fertilizers indicated that the highest inflorescence essential oil percentage and yield with the average of 10.2 % and 30.3 kg/ha, respectively, were achieved in the treatment without super adsorbent*90%FC*N300P0. Conclusion: Results indicated that mint is sensitive to water deficiency and sufficient moisture is necessary for its production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IntroductionOne of the important challenges in the agricultural sector is the low use efficiency of chemical fertilizers, especially nitrogen fertilizers, as well as the competition of weeds with crops. In this regard, it is important to use management solutions to reduce the use of chemical inputs. To increase the quality level of food used by humans while reducing environmental pollution. One of the management solutions is the use of controlled-release fertilizers. Considering the desire to increase the quantity and quality of the coriander plant and also to identify the best-studied genotype, research was conducted in this field to investigate the effect of different sources of nitrogen fertilizer and the competition of weeds in the region on the agricultural and medicinal properties of different genotypes of coriander. Materials and MethodsThe experiment was carried out in factorial form based on a randomized complete block design with three replications in the teaching and research farm of the Faculty of Agriculture Shahed University of Tehran in the 2019 season. An experimental treatment consisted of three factors including: 1) nitrogen fertilizer sources (Control treatment: without nitrogen fertilizer; SCU: with rate of N, 70 kg ha-1, and urea: with rate of N, 70 kg ha-1), 2) genotypes (Nahavandi, Pishgam and, Ethiopia), and 3) weeding (weedy and weeding by hand). The experimental plot size was 2×2 m2 dimensions with a plant spacing of 25 cm ×10 cm. A space of 1.5 m between plots and 2 m between blocks were maintained. At the end of the growth period, coriander plants of 1 m2 per plot were harvested, and fruit yield per plot was measured. Also, in the plots under weed competition, the competition index was evaluated. Sampling of weeds was done in two stages (in the growing stage of the main plant and another in the ripening stage of the seeds) using quadrats of 30 x 30 cm and the abundance and biomass of each plot was calculated. To evaluate the percentage of the essential oil of coriander seeds, the Clevenger device was used with the steam distillation method to identify and determine the essential oil compounds extracted from the gas chromatography device.Results and DiscussionRelated to the competitive indices, results showed that, the Pishgam genotype had the highest ability to withstand competition (%), and the lowest yield loss (%), and, the Nahandi genotype had the lowest ability to withstand competition (%) and the highest yield loss (%). It seems that the Pishgam genotype was more successful in competing with weeds due to its early maturity and higher germination rate. So, it has a higher ability to tolerate weed competition than other genotypes. Regarding fruit yield, the findings of this experiment revealed a significant increase in yield with the application of nitrogen fertilizer in the weeded plots. Additionally, the Ethiopian genotype exhibited the highest fruit yield among the weeded plots. However, the fruit yield of genotypes did not show significant differences in the un-weeded plots. This suggests that weed competition significantly limited fruit yield compared to the inherent characteristics of the genotypes assessed in this trial. Ethiopian genotype showed the highest percentage of essential oil in all nitrogen fertilizer sources. In the Pishgam genotype, the most essential oil was obtained in the sulfur-coated urea treatment but, in the Nahavandi genotype, the most essential oil belonged to the control fertilizer treatment. Due to the difference in the genetic structure of genotypes, various results have been observed, which can be due to the difference in the fertility of different genotypes. Also, the results of this experiment showed that the main composition of coriander essential oil is linalool.ConclusionThe results showed that N fertilizer and weeding significantly increased seed yield. And the Ethiopian genotype had the highest seed yield and essential oil in weeded plots. Also, the Pishgam genotype had the highest Ability to withstand competition (%) and the lowest Yield loss (%).

Peppermint is one of the valuable plants in the pharmaceutical industry. The reduction of water in Iran is one of the most important production limitations. The use of organic materials such as humic acid and wood vinegar can be useful to help produce medicinal plants to reduce the effects of drought stress. This research was carried out in order to investigate the effect of humic acid and wood vinegar foliar spraying on plant traits and main compounds of peppermint essential oil under drought stress conditions. A filed experiment was conducted as a split plot based on a randomized complete block design with three replications in the research farm of the Faculty of Agriculture of the Tarbiat Modares University in 2019. The experimental treatments included low irrigation regime at three levels (irrigation up to the field capacity and respectively after draining 25 (no stress), 40 (moderate drought stress) and 55 (severe drought stress) percentage of available water in the root zone) as the main plots factor was foliar application at seven levels (humic acid (1, 2, and 3%), wood vinegar (5, 10, and 15%) and no foliar application (control)) as a sub plots. The results showed that the interaction of foliar application and irrigation regimes had a significant effect on plant height, total dry weight, total chlorophyll, flavonoid, total phenol, essential oil percentage and yield, and essential oil profile. Maximum total dry weight was produced with foliar spraying of 2 and 3% humic acid in normal irrigation conditions with 3204 and 3259 kg ha-1, respectively, and moderate and severe water deficit stress, respectively, caused a decrease of 15.34 and 27.42% of the total dry weight compared to the control. Water deficit stress harmed the yield of essential oil; so that with the increase of the stress intensity, its value decreased, and moderate and severe water deficit stress, a decrease of 9.38 and 40.2 percent of essential oil yield, respectively, was observed. Increasing the concentration of humic acid from zero to 3% increased the total chlorophyll by 10.4%. The flavonoids increased by 14.6, 22.5, and 33.1 percent with the use of 1, 2, and 3 percent humic acid, respectively, and this increase with the use of 5, 10, and 15 percent wood vinegar was 14.3, 34.7, and 37.1 percent, respectively. It was 34.34 and 37.15 percent. By increasing the concentration of humic acid from zero to 3%, the essential oil content increased by 60.6%. While increasing the concentration of wood vinegar from zero to 15%, its amount increased by 90.7%. The highest amount of menthol was obtained from the application of 10% wood vinegar in normal irrigation conditions at 61.04%, and it was placed in a statistical group with the treatment of 2% humic acid application in moderate water stress conditions (60.1%). In addition, the results showed that with the use of humic acid and wood vinegar, the amount of menthol increased by 21.88 and 17.84%, respectively, compared to not using them. According to the water limitation and the results of this research, it is recommended to use 3% humic acid in optimal irrigation conditions and moderate water deficit stress and use 15% wood vinegar in severe water deficit stress conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Comparison of the morphological and phytochemical characteristics of annual and perennial wild and cultivated Kakuti in Razavi, North and South Khorasan provinces. Methods: In this study, annual (Ziziohora tenuior) and perennial (Ziziphora clinopodioides) Kakuti were studied in six regions in Razavi, North and South Khorasan province in 2021. Plant samples were collected from each region and planted in pots. The experimental design used in this experiment was a nested design with four replications. In addition, by going back to the places where plants were collected in the target areas, all the morphological and phytochemical traits were measured for the wild plants. Results: The results demonstrated that the highest percentage of essential oil in annual and perennial kakuti bonged to Qain (0.75%) and Quchan (2.29%), respectively. Also, the percentage of pulegone in the annual kakuti in Bardaskan was higher than that of the other studied cities (77.58%). The highest alpha-pinene (0.42%) and sabinene (1.31%) percentage of annual kakuti belonged to Bojnord, while the alpha-pinene and sabinene of the perennial kakuti in Quchan (0.89%) and Bojnurd (1.23%) was higher than that of the other cities. Conclusion: The amount of phenol, flavonoid and antioxidant activity in the annual and perennial kakutis under natural conditions and in Sarayan were higher than the other treatments. The annual and perennial kakutis belonging to Bojnurd had higher wet and dry yields than the other ecotypes, while the kakuti belonging to Sarayan had superior phytochemical characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is a perennial and monocotyledonous medicinal and spice plant, whose rhizome, essential oil and extract are of interest, and this plant has wide uses in various industries. The origin of ginger is Southeast Asia and possibly India. This plant is mainly cultivated as an annual and the rhizome or the underground stem is the used part. It should be noted that the use of biological fertilizers can improve the growth and yield of plants and is also the most natural and best way to keep soil systems healthy. In addition, benefiting from natural solutions instead of using chemicals reduces pollution and destruction of biological resources. The use of Arbuscular mycorrhizal and Trichoderma fungi can leads to a reduction in the consumption of fertilizers and fungicides and an increase in yield, and also reduces production costs and is compatible with environmental principles. Therefore, the main purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of Trichoderma harizanum, mycorrhiza (Glomus etunicatum and G. fasciculatum) and the combined treatment of fungi (G. etunicatum + T. harizanum, G. fasciculitum + T. harizanum) on the growth parameters, rhizome yield and active substances of ginger. Materials and Methods This research was conducted as a factorial experiment based on a completely random design in the research greenhouse of the Faculty of Agriculture, Tarbiat Modares University. The rhizomes were transferred to the greenhouse and cultivated in pots with amended soil. These plants were inoculated with Trichoderma (T. harizanum), Mycorrhiza (G. etunicatum and G. fasciculatum) and combined treatment of fungi (G. etunicatum + T. harizanum, G. fasciculatum + T. harizanum). During the growing season and harvesting, the morphological characteristics and rhizomes yield were evaluated, and then the essential oil content and composition, the amount of fiber and the color of the rhizomes and precisely. The effect of treatments on ginger stem traits contains: Stem Fresh Weight (g), Stem Dry Weight (g), Number of Stems and Stem Length (cm), Leaf Traits contains: Leaf Dry Weight (g), Leaf Fresh Weight (g), Number of Leafs, Greenness Index, Rhizome Traits contains: Rhizome Dry Weight (g), Rhizome Fresh Weight (g), Darkness/Lightnees Indicator, Yellow/Blue Indicator, Rhizome Crude Fiber (%), Essential oil Traits contains: Essential oil Percentage, Essential oil Yield were investigated. Abbreviation of treatments include contains: Control, M1 (G. fasciculatum), M2 (G. etunicatum), T1 (T. harizanum), M1T1 (G. fasciculitum + T. harizanum) and M2T1 (G. etunicatum + T. harizanum). Results and Discussion The results showed that the inoculation with G. etunicatum had the highest value of stem length (35.68 cm), fresh and dry weight of the stem (22 and 10.2 g), Spad index (18.17), fresh and dry weight of leaves (34.46 and 8.96 g), number of leaves (9.46) and fiber content of rhizome (4.28%). Also, the highest number of stems, darkness/brightness index and yellow/blue color index of rhizome were observed in the control treatment with values of 7.16, 73.29 and 98.6 respectively. The highest fresh and dry weight of rhizome (35.5 and 5.2 g) were observed in the inoculation with G. fasciculitum treatment and the highest percentage of essential oil (0.4) was observed under the combined treatment of the inoculation with G. etunicatum. Camphene, 1,8-cineole, neral and geranial were identified as the main compounds of essential oil and the amounts of these compounds in the inoculation treatment with fungi were more than the control. In general, this research showed that the inoculation of rhizomes with G. etunicatum resulted in achieving the desired growth characteristics, rhizome yield and active substances in ginger. Camphene, 1,8-cineole, neral and geranial were identified as the main compounds of essential oil and the amounts of these compounds in the inoculation treatment with fungi were more than the control. Conclusion In general, this research showed that the inoculation of rhizomes with G. etunicatum resulted in achieving the desired growth characteristics, rhizome yield and active substances in ginger.

The current study aimed to investigate the antifungal activities of cumin, black cumin, and lavender essential oils and their maltodextrin-based coatings against Fusarium oxysporum, one of the most locally predominant tomato fungal pathogens (Tehran, Iran). Also, investigation of some qualitative characteristics of coated tomato fruits during storage was aimed. The phytochemical constituents of the essential oils were evaluated using GC and GC–MS methods. Also, the inhibitory activities of the oils were examined against spore germination, mycelial growth, and fungal infection development on tomato fruits. According to the results, cuminaldehyde (34.54 %), γ-terpinene (18.30 %), p-cymen-7-ol (13.19 %) and p-cymenene (12.82 %) in cumin, carvone (28.74 %), p-cymen-7-ol (12.02 %), p-cymenene (11.55 %), safrole (8.93 %) and β-pinene (5.88 %) in black cumin, and camphor (19.11 %), eucalyptol (15.90 %), α-pinene (6.69 %), 3-carene (6.50 %) and β-Caryophyllene (5.38 %) in lavender essential oil were determined as main components. In spore germination assay, cumin, black cumin, and lavender essential oils exhibited potent activities with IC50 values of 1.05, 0.64 and 0.89 mg/mL, respectively. While, kresoxim-methyl (a standard antifungal agent) inhibited the fungal strain with IC50 value of 0.11 mg/mL. Furthermore, black cumin oil showed the most activities against mycelial growth of fungus. Furthermore, the coating enriched with black cumin oil showed the most inhibitory activity to reduce fungal growth on inoculated fruits, with a severity reduction of 79.2%. Whereas, cumin and lavender coatings showed significant activities with 71.43 and 38.09% inhibition, respectively. The results indicated that black cumin coating is a potent antifungal coating that of interest for the bioactive packaging of tomato fruits to extend their shelf life.

Background and objectives: Fish, a significant component of the human diet, is prone to early spoilage due to its nutrient content. Supplying fresh fish, preventing spoilage and increasing shelf life have been considered in the food industry, and therefore, the use of edible films and coatings to increase the shelf life of fresh fish has been considered. Oliveria decumbens essential oil contains compounds such as thymol and carvacrol, which cause antimicrobial properties. To improve the antimicrobial and antioxidant properties and solve the problem of volatility and high consumption of essential oils, their nanoemulsions can be used. In this study, the effect of an edible sodium caseinate coating containing emulsion and nanoemulsion of Oliveria decumbens essential oil on the growth of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Listeria monocytogenes inoculated into rainbow salmon fillets during storage in the refrigerator was investigated. Materials and methods: The essential oil of Oliveria decumbens (Od-EO) was extracted according to standard methods using a Clevenger apparatus, and a concentration of 2% nanoemulsion of the essential oil was prepared. The antibacterial effect of essential oil and nanoemulsions of essential oil were evaluated by the microdilution method and the antioxidant property of essential oil was evaluated by the free radical reduction method. To evaluate the antibacterial effects, first, 100 µL of the prepared bacterial suspension with a concentration of 105 CFU/mL was inoculated to on the surface of the samples and then treated. To create a coating on the fish fillet, the pieces were immersed for 2 minutes in different treatments, including sterile physiological serum (control), pure sodium caseinate coating solution, caseinate coating solution containing essential oil, and caseinate coating solution containing essential oil nanoemulsion. The samples were dried for 2 minutes at room temperature and under sterile conditions to form the desired edible coating . The samples were stored for 15 days in a refrigerator and were examined every 3 days. Results: Thymol (53.4%) was identified as the most important compound in the chemical composition of Oliveria decumbens essential oil. The MIC and MBC of of essential oil for Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria 10 and 20 mg/ml, respectively, and against Listeria monocytogenes bacteria, 2.5 and 5 mg/ml, respectively. The MIC and MBC of the essential oil nanoemulsion for Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria, were 2.5 and 10 mg/ml, respectively, and for Listeria monocytogenes bacteria They were 1.25 and 2.5 mg/ml, respectively. The antioxidant activity of Oliveria decumbens essential oil and nanoemulsion was 1456.95 and 757.29 µg/µl, respectively. Treatment with sodium caseinate containing essential oil or sodium caseinate containing nanoemulsion of Oliveria decumbens essential oil could significantly reduce the amount of Listeria monocytogenes and Pseudomonas aeruginosa inoculated in fish fillets during 15 days of refrigerator temperature (P <0.05). Conclusion:The results of this study have shown that a coating of sodium caseinate containing a nanoemulsion of Oliveria decumbens essential oil is effectively capable of inhibiting the growth of Listeria monocytogenes and Pseudomonas aeruginosa in rainbow trout fillets at cold temperatures. Furthermore, the nanoemulsion can be used in the food industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction and Objective: The genetic diversity of plant species and their relationship with wild species is very important to improve the yield of crops. The first step in the improvement of medicinal plants is to identify and collect endemic genotypes. Endemic genotypes are very important in the selection of cultivars due to their adaptability to the climate of the region. Mentha longifolia is one of the important endemic medicinal plants of Iran, which is used in various pharmaceutical, food and cosmetic industries. Essential oil, phenolic compounds, flavonoids and other compounds such as steroids and ceramides are important chemical compounds in oregano plant. In this study, morphological diversity, essential oil and antioxidant activity of 20 Mentha longifolia genotypes in West and East Azerbaijan provinces were investigated. The aim of this research, on the one hand, is to know the potential and range of diversity of Menta longifolia genotypes in its natural habitats in West Azarbaijan and East Azarbaijan provinces. On the other hand, the introduction of regions with superior genotypes in terms of these traits is for use in breeding programs. Material and Methods: The collection of plant samples from some areas of two northwestern provinces of Iran (West Azerbaijan and East Azerbaijan) was done in the spring of 2022. In order to evaluate the morphological traits of the plant in the flowering season, 11 quantitative traits of the plant including plant height, inflorescence length, crown diameterstem diameter, internode length, leaf length, leaf width, number of leaves, number of inflorescences, fresh weight, dry weight and the number of sub-branches were evaluated. After drying the plant samples, essential oil extraction was done using a clonger, and the essential oil samples were transferred to Urmia University Jihad to identify compounds by gas chromatography. Extraction of plant samples was done by ultrasonic method. Antioxidant activity was evaluated by DPPH method. All the obtained data were analyzed with three repetitions and based on a completely random design using SPSS software. LSD test was used to compare the mean data. Data clustering was done based on Ward's method and Euclidean distance square measure. Principal component analysis was performed on the data. Also, in this study, correlation between studied traits was done by R software. Results: The results of analysis of variance showed that the genotypes collected from different regions have significant differences in terms of plant height, inflorescence length, crown diameterstem diameter, internode length, leaf length, leaf width, number of leaves, number of inflorescences, fresh weight, dry weight and the number of sub-branches are investigated (P < 0.01). The results of the analysis of the percentage and chemical composition of the essential oil showed that the type of genotype had a significant effect on the amount of these compounds in different genotypes of Mentha longifolia (P < 0.01). Among the studied genotypes, the highest percentage of essential oil and the amount of Trans-Caryophyllene and Germacrene D compounds were found in G18 of Iranq region of Tabriz, also the highest amount of Alpha-Terpineol and Spathulenol was found in G16 of Aghajari region of Maragheh. Also, there was a significant difference between different genotypes of mint in terms of antioxidant activity. The maximum amount of antioxidant activity (80.81%) was observed in G3 of Hachesu area in Shahindej. Based on Ward's cluster analysis, the genotypes were divided into three main groups. G1 alone was placed in a separate group due to the high content of Spathulenol and high antioxidant activity. The second group, which includes most of the genotypes (G2, G3, G5, G16, G19, G17, G20, G12, G14, G4, G6, G8, G11, G13, G9, G7 and G10), has a moderate amount of morphological traits, essential oil components and antioxidant activity. G15 and G18 genotypes were placed in the third group. The prominent features of these genotypes were high values of length and number of inflorescences, length and width of leaves, number of leaves, fresh and dry weight of the plant, number of sub-branches, percentage of essential oil, alpha-Humulene, trans-Caryophyllene and GermacreneD and antioxidant activity. Using principal component analysis, 21 primary variables were determined in the form of two principal components. The first component explained 40% and the second component 19% of the total variance. The results of correlation analysis showed that there was a positive and significant correlation between the percentage of essential oil and some morphological traits, the percentage of essential oil and the amount of Germacrene D, trans-Caryophyllene, beta-Farnesene and isomenthon, as well as antioxidant activity and morphological traits. Conclusion: The findings of this study showed that G15 belonging to Maragheh with an altitude of 1776 m had the highest number of leaves, length and width of leaves, fresh weight, dry weight and number of subbranches, internode length and number of inflorescences compared to other genotypes. Therefore, it can be said that this genotype has priority for breeding, domestication and crop cultivation projects and is suitable for its introduction to the market as a medicinal plant. In addition, the results showed that the highest percentage of essential oil and the amount of compounds such as Germacrene D, Trans-Caryophyllene, Spathulenol, Beta-Farnesene, Alpha-Terpineol were obtained in genotypes with high altitudes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study aimed to investigate the antifungal activities of cumin, black cumin, and lavender essential oils and their maltodextrin-based coatings against Fusarium oxysporum, one of the most locally predominant tomato fungal pathogens (Tehran, Iran). Also, investigation of some qualitative characteristics of coated tomato fruits during storage was aimed. The phytochemical constituents of the essential oils were evaluated using GC and GC-MS methods. Also, the inhibitory activities of the oils were examined against spore germination, mycelial growth, and fungal infection development on tomato fruits. According to the results, cuminaldehyde (34.54 %), γ-terpinene (18.30 %), p-cymen-7-ol (13.19 %) and p-cymenene (12.82 %) in cumin, carvone (28.74 %), p-cymen-7-ol (12.02 %), p-cymenene (11.55 %), safrole (8.93 %) and β-pinene (5.88 %) in black cumin, and camphor (19.11 %), eucalyptol (15.90 %), α-pinene (6.69 %), 3-carene (6.50 %) and β-Caryophyllene (5.38 %) in lavender essential oil were determined as main components. In spore germination assay, cumin, black cumin, and lavender essential oils exhibited potent activities with IC50 values of 1.05, 0.64 and 0.89 mg/mL, respectively. While, kresoximmethyl (a standard antifungal agent) inhibited the fungal strain with IC50 value of 0.11 mg/mL. Black cumin oil showed the most activities against mycelial growth of fungus. Furthermore, the coating enriched with black cumin oil showed the most inhibitory activity to reduce fungal growth on inoculated fruits, with a severity reduction of 79.2%. Whereas, cumin and lavender coatings showed significant activities with 71.43 and 38.09% inhibition, respectively. The results indicated that black cumin coating is a potent antifungal coating that of interest for the bioactive packaging of tomato fruits to extend their shelf life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considering the growth period of saffron, intercropping it with species that have similar needs could be a favourable option for optimizing land use, provided that the allelopathic effects of saffron are taken into account. In order to investigate the allelopathic effect of saffron on quantitative and qualitative traits of some medicinal plants, an experiment was conducted under greenhouse conditions at Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Iran. Treatments were a combination of 4 species (Thymus vulgaris, Zataria multiflora, Ziziphora clinopodioides and Teucrium polium and corm and leaf extracts in four levels (0, 3000, 6000, 9000 mg.kg-1 ) arranged in a completely randomized design with four replications. Measured parameters were the fresh and dry weight of root and shoot, shoot-to-root ratio, stomatal resistance, SPAD reading and essential oil percentage and yield. Results indicated that interaction of corm and leaf extract concentrations affected fresh weight of root and SPAD reading. Four species showed different trends in different extract concentrations. In Thymus vulgaris and Zataria multiflora, with increasing extract concentration, stomatal resistance initially increased and then decreased, but other species did not follow this trend. By increasing extract concentration, SPAD reading initially increased and then decreased. In all species studied, except Thymus vulgaris, an increase in extract concentration led to an increase in the shoot-to-root ratio. Additionally, as extract concentrations rose, the percentage of essential oil decreased. Overall, across all investigated species, the physiological and qualitative traits of the plants decreased with the use of saffron leaf and corm extracts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Objective: To investigate magnetic and superabsorbent water on some morphophysiological traits and performance of cumin under low irrigation regime. Methods: An experiment was conducted in the agricultural year of 2020-2021 at the research fields under the supervision of the Faculty of Agriculture of Shahrood University of Technology in two districts of Rahnjan and Garman of the Shahrood city in a factorial format in the form of a randomized complete block design with three repetitions. Irrigation water type treatment at two levels (normal and magnetic) and location (Rahanjan, Garman) with different climatic conditions and altitude above sea level were considered the main factor and superabsorbent treatment at three levels (zero, 100 and 200 kg/ha) was considered the sub factor. In all treatments, irrigation was applied based on 100% of plant water needs. Results: The results showed that location, type of irrigation, and different concentrations of superabsorbent had a positive and significant effect on the growth characteristics of cumin. The highest plant height, plant fresh and dry weight, essential oil, and protein percentage were observed in the Rahanjan region, using superabsorbent concentration of 100 kg/ha. In the Rahnjan region, due to the climatic conditions and higher average annual temperature and the treatments of 100 and 200 kg/ha of superabsorbent and the use of magnetic water, the highest amount of plant height, percentage and yield of essential oil and protein, and soluble carbohydrates were observed. Conclusion: According to the results, most of the traits in the Rahnjan region had higher values than those in the German region, and plant cultivation in the Rahnjan region is economical. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IntroductionThe medicinal plants have been used in traditional medicine for a long time all over the world. Over 80% of the world population depends on herbal medicines and products for healthy living, and also, a large part of pharmaceutical materials are derived directly or indirectly from plant sources. According to the new approach to the use of medicines and herbal products, the investigation of the medicinal properties of endemic plants in each region, is of particular importance. Morphological and phytochemical traits of medicinal plants are affected by the different environmental conditions as well as genetic variations. Therefore, investigating the changes in morphological and phytochemical traits of different populations of these plants in various regions and identifying the amount and constituents of their essential oils, can be effective for creating a suitable field for their planting or breeding, as well as standardizing their derived medicine products. The Achillea genus, a medicinal plant belonging to the Asteraceae family, is highly diverse in terms of morphological characteristics and essential oil constituents. 19 species of herbaceous and aromatic plants of this genus have been identified in Iran, of which 7 species are endemic. Some of the Achillea species have therapeutic properties such as reducing blood pressure and lipids, sedative, antispasmodic, analgesic, wounds treatment, antiseptic properties, treatment of stomach pain and diarrhea, stopping bleeding, etc. Materials and MethodsThis study was conducted in May 2022 in order to evaluate the diversity of morphological traits and essential oil constituents of A. santolinoides subsp. wilhelmsii (K. Koch) Greuter populations in 11 regions of Hamedan province. The plant samples were collected in the flowering stage and after measuring some morphological traits (plant height, number of flowering stem, stem diameter, inflorescence diameter, fresh and dry weight of plant, number of inflorescence, number of leaf, etc.), they were dried in shade condition. In order to investigate the physical and chemical properties of soil, soil samples were collected from a depth of 30 cm. and were transferred to the soil laboratory. The essential oils were extracted using hydro-distillation method which lasted for 4 hours. Then they were analyzed by GC and GC/MS in the Institute of Medicinal Plants in Karaj. Gas chromatography was carried out on Agilent 6890. The grouping of populations based on morphological traits and essential oil constituents, was done by cluster analysis in SPSS using the Ward method. Also, the traits correlation (quantitative) was done using the Pearson method. Results and DiscussionThe results indicated that the Vahnan population exhibited the tallest plant height at 23.20 cm, a significant difference compared to other populations. Conversely, the Nazool population displayed the lowest plant height at 13.60 cm. Regarding stem diameter, the Yalfan population showed the greatest diameter at 2.50 mm, a measure not significantly different from the populations of Islamabad, Nazool, and Varayeneh. In contrast, the Koohani population had the smallest stem diameter at 1.52 mm. The highest inflorescence diameter (4.30 cm) belonged to the Islamabad population, which statistically had no significant difference with the populations of Koohani, Vahnan and Yekan Abad, and the lowest (2.30 cm) was observed in Joorab population. The Vahnan population had the highest number of inflorescence (6.20), which statistically had no significant difference with Islam Abad, Zanganeh, Koohani, Yekan Abad and Nazool populations, and the lowest was related to the Yalfan population (3.40). The maximum leaf length was related to Varayeneh population (3 cm), which was statistically not significantly different from Yalfan, Islam Abad and Vahnan populations, and the lowest was related to Naseh Abad population (1.70 cm). Varayeneh and Yekan Abad populations respectively had the largest leaf width (4 mm and 3.80 mm) and the lowest leaf width (2 mm) was observed in the Joorab population. The highest number of flowering stems (13.80) and the maximum number of leaves (168) were belonged to Nazool population, and the lowest number of flowering stems (3.80) was related to Naseh Abad population and the lowest number of leaves (61) was related to Koohani population. Regarding the fresh and dry weight of the plant, the highest values of these traits (3.92 and 2.24 gr, respectively) was related to the Yalfan population and the lowest (1.60 and 0.79 gr, respectively) was related to the Naseh Abad population. Analysis of the essential oils chemical compositions using GC-MS, showed 28 compounds. Camphor, Fragranol, a-pinene, 1,8-cineole and Sabinene were the main constituents of the essential oil. The essential oils yield varied from 0.3 to 0.6% which the highest was related to Varayenh and Nazool populations (0.6%) and the lowest belonged to Heydareh Bala Shahr population (0.3%). Also, Islam Abad population (with the highest altitude), had the highest percentage of fragranol (43.29%). This indicates that environmental factors similar to genetic factors are effective in creating diversity in morphological and phytochemical characteristics of this plant. ConclusionIdentifying the compounds in the Iranian native plants, can provide a suitable field for the practical use of its plant resources and may be the basis of breeding programs. The various studies conducted on different species and populations of Achillea genus, have mentioned the valuable use of their extracts and essential oils in various fields such as pharmaceutical industries (in order to standardizing medicinal products), food, health cosmetics, making insecticides, etc. Researchers who have studied the essential oils of different populations of Achillea species in many regions of Iran, have emphasized on the significant difference between type and amount of the essential oil constituents. In this study, compounds such as Camphor, Fragranol, a-pinene, 1,8-cineole and Sabinene were the main components of the populations essential oils. Since fragranol is used in manufacturing the insecticides and pheromones, Islam Abad population can be used in this industry due to having high fragranol (43.29%). Also, due to the high amount of camphor in the essential oils of most of the studied populations and many uses of this compound, it can be used as an important economic resource in the health-cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries to make various creams and ointments.

Basil, rosemary and cumin are medicinal plants with many food applications. The purpose of this study is to investigate the chemical composition and antibacterial properties of the essential oils of these plants in comparison with nisin on the growth control of the most important food-borne pathogenic bacteria. Essential oil samples were prepared by water distillation method with the help of Celevenger device and its components were identified by Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. In the following, the antibacterial property of essential oils compared to nisin by the agar diffusion assay, as well as the minimum growth inhibitory concentration (MIC) and the minimum lethal concentration (MBC) by microdilution method against strains of the Staphylococcus aureus PTCC1337, Listeria monocytogenes ATTC19118, Bacillus cereus PTCC1857, Escherichia coli PTCC1763, Pseudomonas aerogenes PTCC1074, and Salmonella typhimurium ATCC14028 were investigated. The obtained results showed that the most important compounds in basil essential oil: linalool (52.33%), in rosemary essential oil: 1,8-cineole (17.8%), camphor (16.6%), α-pinene (13.61%), and in cumin essential oil: cumin-aldehyde (39.67%), γ - terpinen (17.35%) and p-simen (15.96%) were identified. All essential oils and nisin inhibited the growth of target bacteria. The most sensitive bacteria to essential oils of basil, rosemary and cumin were Salmonella typhimurium (125 μg/ml), Pseudomonas aerogenes (31 μg/ml) and Listeria monocytogenes (125 μg/ml), respectively. The antibacterial effect of the essential oil is affected by the type and the target bacterial strain. Basil, rosemary and cumin essential oils can probably be used as suitable substitutes for chemical preservatives in food and pharmaceutical industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In this research, the properties of edible film based on gelatin mixed with concentrations of salvia officinalis essential oil (0, 1.25%, 2.5% and 3.75%) were investigated. Aims: The purpose of this study is to produce suitable films for use in food packaging. Methods: The tests performed in this research were physicochemical tests, mechanical tests, measurement of antioxidant property and antimicrobial activity of edible films. All experiments were performed in three replicates (n=3) with completely random sampling. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the comparison of average data based on Duncan's multiple range test were performed using Minitab18 software at a confidence level of 95%. Results: In this research, the results of gelatin film samples in mechanical tests were significant (P<0.05) and the highest amount of tensile strength, elongation to breaking point and Young's modulus in the treatment was 2.5%. The lowest solubility and permeability to water vapor were observed in films containing 3.75% and 2.5% essential oil, respectively. The difference in turbidity between 2.5% and 3.75% treatments was not significant and in 1.25% concentration of sage-flower essential oil, turbidity and thickness were the highest. In all samples of edible films, the antioxidant property was significant compared to the control sample (P<0.05). The largest diameter of inhibition zone in antimicrobial activity at 3.75% essential oil concentration was related to Staphylococcus aureus with an average zone diameter of 11.11mm. In the same concentration, the average zone diameter for Pseudomonas aerogenes and Escherichia coli was reported as 8.27 mm and 4.45 mm, respectively. Conclusion: The results of this research showed that the addition of sage essential oil at a concentration of 3.75% in gelatin film in addition to inhibiting. The growth and proliferation of bacteria has enough strength and improved the antioxidant properties of the gelatin film, and it also can be used in perishable food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Lavandula angustifolia L. is a perennial and aromatic plant which belongs to Lamiaceae family. Drying in the production of medicinal plants is a post-harvest process that provides producers with the ability to store the product when production levels are high and processing is not possible in a short time. This allows them to store the material in warehouses throughout the year, ensuring availability, or to sell it at a more profitable time. Considering the fluctuating environmental conditions during different harvesting periods, determining the quality of the essential oil stands as a crucial factor in achieving peak essential oil production. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the performance and quality of valuable medicinal plant essential oil of L. angustifolia in different harvesting times of fresh and dried plants. Materials and Methods: For these goals, aerial parts of L. angustifolia in full flowering stage were collected from selected plants from a 3-year farm located in Saadatshahr city of Fars province. A Factorial experiment as a completely randomized blocks design with three replications and two factors include three different harvesting times (Spring, Summer and Autumn, 2020) and two types of plant materials (fresh and dry) was performed in the farm. The essential oils of different L. angustifolia samples were extracted by hydro-distillation using Clevenger apparatus and with three replications. The yields were calculated based on dry weight and the oils were analyzed by a combination of GC-FID and GC-MS techniques, to check for chemical variability based on British Pharmacopoeia. At the end of the experiment, data analysis was performed using SAS software (version: 9.4). The means were compared by Duncan's multi-range test at a statistical level of 1%. Results: The results of the present study demonstrated that the interaction effects of harvesting times and plant materials on the essential oil yield was not significant. However, the results of variance analysis of the main compounds identified in the L. angustifolia essential oil showed that the characteristics of linalool, borneol and camphor compounds were significant at the 1% probability level, and the characteristics of the type of plant material on the linalool and linalool acetate compounds were significant at the level of 1%. The probability of 5% was significant on the borneol and camphor compounds at the 1% probability level. The interaction effect of harvest time and type of plant material had a significant effect on the two compounds of linalool and 1,8-cineole at the 1% probability level. Mean comparison of the effect of plant materials in harvest times the main compounds identified in essential oil of L. angustifolia showed that the percentage of linalool composition in the treatment of fresh plant matter and the third harvest time was the highest with an average of 21.63% and the lowest amount in the treatment of dry plant matter and the third harvest time was observed with an average of 7.53%. Also, the highest amount of 1,8-cineole compound was obtained in the treatment of fresh plant material and in the first harvest with an average of 13.90% and the lowest amount of this compound in the treatment of fresh plant material and the second harvest with an average of 4.30%. Conclusion: In total, the results of the current study demonstrated that the highest quantitative yield and subsequently the highest levels of oxygenated monoterpenes, as quality indicators for the essential oil from L. angustifolia were obtained from dried plant material and during the spring harvesting phase under the climatic conditions of Saadat-Shahr, Fars province. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objectives: The red flour beetle (Tribolium castaneum (Herbst)) (Tenebrionidae) is one of the main pests of stored products, especially cereal crops, all over the world. In recent years, to reduce the use of chemical pesticides, plant essential oils have gained attention. But despite their good potential, essential oils are unstable, and their toxicity decreases in a short time after use. Nanocapsule formulations can improve the efficiency of plant essential oils on stored product pests by increasing their toxicity and durability. This study was carried out with the aim of preparing nanocapsule formulations of essential oils of Eucalyptus camaldulensis Dehnh. and Eucalyptus globulus Labill. and comparing their fumigant toxicity effects and non-formulated essential oils on T. castaneum adults. Methodology: Eucalyptus leaves were collected from the Zaghmarz Eucalyptus research station in the south of Behshahr city, Mazandran Province, in July 2018. The collected dried leaves of Eucalyptus were hydrodistilled using a Clevenger-type apparatus. Identification of the constituents of essential oils was performed using GC-MS. Sodium alginate nanocapsules were prepared using basic hydrophilic surfactants. The survey of the surface and wall morphology of nanocapsules was conducted using a transmission electron microscope. The particle size distribution of nanocapsules was also determined. Fumigant toxicity testing was performed separately for each essential oil and nano-capsulated essential oil in four concentrations and at 24, 48, and 72 hours after applying the treatments, along with the control at 25°C and a relative humidity of 65% in darkness. PoloPlus software was used to estimate the LC10, LC25, LC50, and LC95. Results: According to the results, the number of compounds in the essential oils of E. globulus was higher. The most important compounds of the essential oils of the two Eucalyptus species were terpenes, and 1,8-cineole, limonene, and pinene-α were the most important terpenes in the essential oils of E. globulus and E. camaldulensis, respectively. The results obtained from the transmission electron microscope images showed that nanocapsules containing Eucalyptus essential oil have nanoscale dimensions. The average particle size distribution for E. globulus and E. camaldulensis essential oil nanocapsules was determined to be about 150 and 100 nm, respectively. The essential oil of E. globulus was more toxic than the essential oil of E. camaldulensis. The values of LC50 at 24, 48, and 72 hours after treatment for essential oil nanocapsules of E. globulus and E. camaldulensis were 5.9, 4.63, 3.8, and 9.5, 8.67, 6.7, respectively, and LC50 for raw essential oils of E. globulus and E. camaldulensis were 10.93, 9.63, 5.7, and 15.09, 12.86, 8.2 ml per liter of air, respectively. Based on the results, the nanocapsule formulation of the essential oils of both species, compared to the raw essential oil, showed a decrease in LC50, and the durability of the encapsulated essential oil also increased. Conclusion: Based on our results, nanoencapsulation of Eucalyptus essential oil increased the fumigant toxicity of the essential oils by enhancing toxicity and the controlled release of effective compounds in controlling this pest. Therefore, this nanocapsule formulation is recommended for further toxicity tests and eventually its use in storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Indian shot (Canna indica) is a multipurpose ornamental plant, and due to its foliage value, its leaves are used in flower arrangements. The leaves of Indian shot have a short life after harvesting and quickly turn yellow and deteriorate. This research was done in the form of a factorial experiment in a completely randomized design with four replications. The experimental factors included three levels of benzylaminopurine (0, 10 and 20 mg/liter), four levels of antibacterial compounds including; silver nitrate (20 mg/liter), thyme essentioa oil (50 mg/liter), savory essential oil (50 mg/liter) and control, and two levels of the ambient temperature (10°C and 20°C). The results indicated that keeping the cut leaves of Canna indica flower at low temperature (10°C) was superior to high temperature (20°C) in all treatments and the lowest applied concentration of cytokinin (10 mg/liter) was more effective compared to higher concentration. Also, in terms of antibacterial compounds, the use of natural essential oils (thyme and savory), especially savory essential oil, was more effective than silver nitrate. The highest activity of enzymes peroxidase, ascorbate peroxidase, polyphenol oxidase, catalase, superoxide dismutase and proline accumulation and the lowest amount of hydrogen peroxide and malondialdehyde content were gained in the interaction treatment of 10°C, benzylaminopurine 10 mg/liter and savory essential oil (50 mg/liter). Therefore, the most desirable leaves with the longest vase life period and visual quality (33 days) were observed in this treatment, compared to the control (8 days). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: The growth and health of lambs from birth to weaning are influenced by yield and quality of the ewe's colostrum. Colostrum contains essential proteins, fats, hormones, vitamins, and antibodies that facilitate immunity, growth, and development. Therefore, to improve colostrum, it is necessary to use a high quality diet. That colostrum is of high quality to ensure the best start to life for offspring. Consumption of high-quality colostrum improves neonatal survival and increases the reproductive potential and future productivity in sheep. Some plant essential oils have been used to improve ewe's health and their productivity. This experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of feeding different levels of Pistacia atlantica subsp. Kurdica gum essential oil on feed, intake, colostrum quality, milk yield, and milk composition, as well as growth of suckling lambs. Materials and Methods: P. atica subsp. kurdica gum essential oil was prepared commercially and added to the ewes' diet in order to influence the P. atlantica subsp. Kurdica gum essential oil during pregnancy and lactation (lasting 5 months, with the adaptation period of 21 days). A total of 168 ewes (in their second and third parity with an average weight of 68.84±1.65 kg), were used in the study, all of which were subjected to the estrus synchronization program. Ninety pregnant ewes in the last month of their pregnancy were randomly divided into three groups. The first group did not receive any essential oil, and the second and third groups received a daily dose of 0.8 and 1.6 milliliters of P. atlantica subsp. Kurdica gum essential oil, respectively. The P. atlantica subsp. Kurdica gum essential oil was sprayed on top of feed right before each meal. At the time of parturition, 36 single-born female lambs and their dams were randomly assigned to the three experimental groups. Each group was further subdivided into 4 units of three ewes each to determine dry matter intake (DMI). All other data such as milk production and composition, colostrum, and lamb's growth were obtained from 12 ewes and their lambs in each treatment. Results: Both groups treated with P. atlantica subsp. kurdica gum essential oil exhibited increased DMI and milk production, while ewes received a daily dose of 1.6 ml of P. atlantica subsp. Kurdica gum essential oil had the highest DMI and milk production (P<0.05). The essential oil had no effect on the birth weight of lambs (P<0.05). Feeding the essential oil had a significant effect on fat, protein, and solid none fat in colostrum and milk. Somatic cells both in colostrum and milk declined as a result of feeding P atlantica subsp. Kurdica gum essential oil(P<0.05). Conclusion: The essential oil significantly decreased the number of somatic cells in colostrum and milk. Due to the significant and positive effects of P atlantica subsp. Kurdica gum essential oil on the milk production, milk and colostrum composition (fat and protein), as well as the growth rate of suckling lambs, it is concluded that this essential oil could be recommended as a suitable feed additive in the diet of ewes at the dose level of 1.6 ml/d. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unrestricted use of chemical insecticides, especially at high concentrations, has reduced their efficacy. Plant-based pesticides, due to their relatively high safety levels to humans and environment as well as effective control on insects, have become a suitable alternative to conventional pesticides. The aim of this study was to investigate the biological and physiological effects of the formulated essential oil of Trachyspermum ammi (L.) on the larvae of Helicoverpa armigera Hüb. The obtained essential oil was formulated into an emulsion using Tween 20 as emulsifier. Chemical analysis of the extracted essential oil indicated that Terpinen (14.4%), Cymene (18.5%), and Thymol (61.6%) were the major compounds. The essential oil of T. ammi have a significant repellency rate on third and sixth instar larvae of cotton bollworm at different observed time intervals, with an average repellency rate of 61-76%. Regarding fumigant toxicity, the highest concentration of the essential oil (500 µL/L) resulted in 100% larval mortality. The LC50 value for fumigant toxicity measured as 82.73 µL/L. The duration of larval development significantly increased in treatments compared to control. In EO concentrations of 2.5-1.25 percent an increase was observed respectively in the duration of the larval stage by 9 and 7 days. The pupae and adult’s emergence affected in dose dependent manner. At concentration of 50 µl/l, 89% inhibition of protease enzyme recorded. With regards to the biological and physiological effects observed in the formulated T. ammi essential oil, with complimentary researches, it could be used in integrated management programs of cotton bollworm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water stress is one of the most important environmental factors limiting the growth and yield of plants, especially in arid and semi-arid regions. Bio-stimulants are biological substances that stimulate metabolism and metabolic processes to increase plant efficiency. To investigate the effects of low water stress and bio-stimulants of Fosnutren and Humiforte on some morphophysiological and phytochemical traits of thyme, a factorial experiment based on a completely randomized design with 12 treatments and 3 replications in 2020 performed in greenhouse conditions. Therefore, the seedlings obtained from seed cultivation after two weeks of transfer to the pot, were exposed to dehydration stress treatments (25, 50, 75 and 100% of field capacity). Foliar application of plants with Fosnutren and Humiforte (5 ml) was performed three times and once every 15 days. The desired traits were evaluated 15 days after the last treatments. The results showed that increasing the levels of low water stress (25 and 50% of field capacity) caused a significant decrease in growth indices, chlorophyll content, total antioxidant percentage and essential oils and increase in proline content. Simultaneous treatment of drought and bio-stimulants of Fosnutren and humiforte with significantly reduced oxidative stress due to dehydration improved the evaluated traits except the amount of proline. The highest percentage of essential oil (2.34%) in Fosnutren foliar spraying and was obtained at 75% field capacity. In general, foliar application of Fosnutren and Humiforte reduced the negative effects of dehydration in thyme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The Calotropis procera Aiton plant is a valuable and effective medicinal species used to treat various diseases, including as an anti-carminative and for indigestion, as well as for anticancer and anticonvulsant treatments. This species naturally inhabits fragmented habitats in southern Iran, particularly near the coasts of the Persian Gulf and the Oman Sea, in the arid and semi-arid regions of Sistan and Baluchistan, Khuzestan, Bushehr, and Hormozgan. On the other hand, due to the discovery of adverse effects caused by chemical drugs, people have turned their attention towards using medicinal plants. The health of agricultural products, especially medicinal plants, has special importance. The symbiosis of plants with mycorrhiza can be lead to improve of the root development and will affect on the absorption of water and nutrients. Aim of this study was investigate the effects of symbiosis between C. procera Aiton. with three different species of mycorrhizal on some phytochemical and antioxidant activity, and content of potassium, phosphorus, and sodium in shoots of C. procera Aiton. Materials and Methods: This research was conducted in the greenhouse of the Horticultural Science Department, University of Zabol, Zabol, Iran. Transplants were cultured in the soil medium in pot condition. This experiment was carried out in a completely randomized design with four treatments include inoculation with three different mycorrhizal fungi (Glomus intraradicese, Glomus fasiculatum, and Glomus mosseae) and control (without inoculation) and three replicate. Meusered indices were assessed 8 weeks after transplanting. Measured parameters include; growth indices such as fresh and dry weight of root and shoot, and phytochemical indices are chlorophyll a and b, Carotenoid, phenol, flavonoid, antioxidant activity, protein, and concentration of potassium, phosphorus, and sodium in shoots. Data were analyzed by ANOVA test using JMP, and means were compared using the LSD test at P˂0.01. Results and Discussion: The results of variance analysis were shown significant effects of mycorrhizal symbiosis on all investigated indices (P ≤ 0.01). Also, means comparison shows a significant difference between the effects of different mycorrhiza species. The highest content of chlorophyll a and carotenoid was obtained in symbiosis with G. mossae, and the highest content of chlorophyll b existed in symbiosis with G. fasiculatum and G. intraradicese. In this regard, it has been found that mycorrhizal symbiosis leads to an increase in water absorption, and an improvement in the absorption of nutrients by the plant, thereby leading to an increase in chlorophyll synthesis enzymes activity. symbiosis of G. fasiculatum had the highest effects on increasing phenol and antioxidant activity. increase in antioxidant activity leading to strong suppression of reactive oxygen species, which ultimately increases the remedial capability of C. procera Aiton. The highest amount of flavonoid was observed in the condition of symbiosis with G. intraradicese and G. fasiculatum, and the highest content of protein was observed in condition of symbiosis with G. fasiculatum and G. mossae. Symbiosis with the G. intraradicese significantly increased the concentration of potassium and phosphorus in shoots of C. procera Aiton, while symbiosis with G. mossae causes to a significant increase in sodium concentration. Generally, the results of the current study were shown that symbiosis with G. fasiculatum and G. intraradicese are more useful than symbiosis with G. mossae. The symbiosis of plants with mycorrhiza fungi increases the volume and length of their roots, as a result of which the roots have more contact with the soil, and the amount of water and nutrient absorption from the soil increases. Conclusion: results of the current study demonstrate that the phytochemical, antioxidant activity, and concentration of potassium and phosphorus and sodium have differed among extract and shoots related to symbiosis of C. procera Aiton and species of fungi. And symbiosis with G. fasiculatum had the greatest effect in increasing the production of secondary metabolites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study is the first to investigate the chemical composition of essential oils in three organs (flower, leaf and stem) of Salvia macrosiphon Boiss., which grows wild and belongs to Lamiaceae family, in Fras procince. In the present experiment, 30 plants in full at flowering stage were randomly prepared from the Jahrom region of Fars province and divided into three groups of 10 and then flowers, leaves, and stems of each group were isolated for testing. Essential oil was extracted from each organ with three replications as in each repetition 200 g of plant material was used by hydro-distillation using Clevenger apparatus and analyzed by a combination of GC-FID and GC-MS techniques to check their chemical variability. The mean yields of essential oil (w/w%) in flowers, leaves, and stems were, 0.48%, 0.28%, and 0.06%, respectively. The total number of compounds identified and quantified were twenty-five in flowers, eighteen in leaves and twenty-one in stems, representing 93.1%, 93.4% and 92.2% of the total oil, respectively. Results of essential oil compound analysis illustrated that flower expressed a high content of linalool. Meanwhile, bicyclogermacrene + (E)-caryophyllene and germacrene D + bicyclogermacrene were the major compounds in leaf and stem organs, respectively. Also, results showed that, in the three studied organs, sesquiterpene hydrocarbons were the common group with the highest amountin leaves (69.1%), stems (68.0%), and flowers (34.5%). The highest level of oxygenated monoterpens was found in the flower part, represented by 27.3% of linalool. In conclusion, the plant organs of S. macrosiphon had different qualities and concentrations of essential oil. Flowers were the most beneficial organ of this species for essential oil and linalool compound productions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many researches have been conducted to introduce ultrasound as an auxiliary factor to increase the efficiency of extraction of essential oils from medicinal plants. However, few researchers have studied the role of ultrasound waves in stimulating chemical reactions of the essential compounds of plants. This research was conducted with the aim of investigating the effect of ultrasound on the main components of essential oil of Thymus vulgaris L. after extracting the essential oil and without the presence of plant tissue. For this purpose, the aerial parts of the plant were harvested at the flowering stage from the south of Tehran in June 2021 . The essential oil of the plant was extracted using a distillation apparatus (Clevenger) and its compounds were determined and measured by GC and GC/MS. Subsequently, ultrasonic waves were applied to the extracted essential oil by a titanium probe (400 w) with three variable factors of temperature, time, and the ratio of essential oil/ water at three levels. Finally, 27 treated essential oil samples were prepared and their chemical compounds were quantified by GC. The primary essential oil contained 44.37% of thymol, 29.80% of p-cymene and 21.24% of γ-terpinene. The results showed that the application of ultrasound to the essential oil increased the amount of thymol and decreased the amounts of γ-terpinene and p-cymene. By optimizing the conditions (1:0 ratio of thyme essential oil and water, 20˚C and 10 min), the active ingredient thymol was reduced from 44.37% to 70.18%. Ultrasonic waves in the presence of water and oxygen caused the production of hydroproxyl radical (HOO˙) and then showed oxidation reactions to produce thymol from γ-terpinene and p-cymene. The results showed that in addition to helping to increase the efficiency of extraction, ultrasound can cause a change in the chemistry and the ratio of phytochemical compounds in the essential oil by stimulating radical reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, considering the side effects of synthetic antibiotics and the increase in drug resistance, it is a necessity to replace them by natural compounds as safe sources. Thus, studies have been carried out on the medicinal properties of essential oils of different Ferula L. species, but there was no report on Ferula tabasensis Rech. f. as an Iranian endemic species. In this research, the leaves and flowers of Ferula tabasensis were harvested from its main habitat (between Kharanaq and Saghand – elevation 1570 m) at the full-flowering stage in the spring of 2021. The essential oils were extracted by hydro distillation method (Clevenger apparatus and GC and GC/MS were used to analyze chemical constituents. The antimicrobial activity of essential oil was evaluated by minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) determination by broth dilution method and the growth inhibitory zone diameter (mm) was also measured. The yields of essential oils from the leaves and flowers of the plant were 0.3% and 0.5%, respectively. The results showed that bornyl acetate (34.2% and 35%) and α-pinene (12.2% and 8.4%) were identified as major compounds of essential oil from leaves and flowers, respectively. Also, citronellol (15.5%) was another main constituent found in the essential oil of the flowers of Ferula tabasensis. Both essential oils had good antimicrobial activity against the tested microorganisms, except E. coli. It seems that antibacterial activity can be mostly attributed to the main compounds of essential oils in the leaves and flowers of the plant and, thus, they can be considered as alternatives to synthetic antibiotics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the methods to increase the secondary metabolites production in plants is to use elicitors and chitosan is a biotic elicitor obtained from the deacetylation of chitin in the outer shell of crustaceans such as shrimp. Shrimp shell is part of shrimp solid waste discarded in large amount every year. This research was carried out to investigate the effect of foliar application of chitosan elicitor (0.25 and 0.5 g/l) and shrimp shell powder (2.5 and 5 g/L) on medicinal plant Hyssopus officinalis in potted form at the Experimental Farm of Islamic Azad University, Shahre-kord Branch during spring to fall in 2017. The essential oils were obtained from aerial part of hyssop by Clevenger device. The essential oils were analyzed by GC-FID and GC/MS. Totally, 33 compounds و representing more than 89-95% of the oil composition, were identified. The predominant components of the essential oil in all treatments were cis-pinocamphon (43.19-55.09%) and beta-pinene (8.31-15.04%). Foliar application of chitosan, shrimp shell, and shrimp shell × chitosan increased the percentage of essential oil and cis-pinocamphon, but only the effect of chitosan 0.5 was statistically significant. Chitosan treatments decreased plant height, shoot fresh and dry weight, chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b and total chlorophyll of hyssop but shrimp shell and chitosan × shrimp shell solutions increased them, although no one was significant. According to the results of this study, it seems that in addition to chitosan, shrimp shell with higher concentrations can be used to increase effective substances of the medicinal plant Hyssopus officinalis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to investigate the effect of biochar fertilizer and humic acid foliar application on quantitative and qualitative characteristics of Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa) a split plots experiment in a randomized complete block design was performed with three replications in the Research Field of Islamic Azad University, Arak Branch during 2017-2018 and 2018- 2019. Experimental factors included 3 levels of biochar (non-consumption or control, 4 tons ha-1, and 8 tons ha-1) and the second factor of foliar spraying of humic acid 82% at 4 levels (non-consumption or control, 100 mg/l, 200 mg/l, and 300 mg/l. Interaction of biochar and humic significantly affected fruit yield. In the treatment with 8 t/ha biochar and 200 mg/l humic acid, the fresh weight of shoots was 465.1 g plant, showing an increase by 32% compared to the minimum value obtained from fertilizer control. At different levels of humic acid, consumption of 8 tons per hectare biochar always increased fruit yield compared to nonbiochar treatment and consumption of 4 tons per hectare biochar. The interaction of biochar and humic acid on color intensity was significant. In the combined treatment of 8 tons per hectare of biochar and 100/l of humic acid, a red index of 14.67 was obtained. At different levels of humic acid, consumption of 8 tons per hectare biochar increased the red color index. Considering the fact that the intensity of red color in Roselle indicates the quality of the product, the consumption of 300 mg per liter humic acid and 8 tons per hectare biochar increased this trait, improving its functional traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objectives Light is the main environmental factor for plant growth and development. Different attributes of light such as intensity, quality and duration affect plant growth and productivity. Light spectrum of growing environment is a determinant factor for plant growth and photosynthesis. The photosynthetic reactions are directly affected by various light parameters including its spectrum and intensity. Photosystem I and II (PSI and PSII) in the electron transport chain of photosynthetic apparatus are involved in converting solar energy to chemical compounds in plants. It has been found that the PSII is sensitive to light quality. Using The OJIP test, we can investigate the efficiency of various biological phases of the electron transport system. Light sources such as metal-halide, fluorescent, high-pressure sodium, neon lamps and light-emitting diode (LED) can be used for production of plants in closed environments instead of sunlight. Manipulation of the light spectrum of the lamps could trigger potential benefits by enhancing plant growth. Nowadays, by using the LED technology, it is possible to study the physiological effect of different light spectra for optimization of growth conditions and for increase the production of plants in controlled environments. This research was conducted to investigate photosynthetic apparatus, growth parameters, stomatal characteristics, transpiration rate and essential oil content of Salvia officinalis under different light spectra. Materials and Methods In this study, the effects of different light spectra were implemented and performed as a pot experiment using soilless media in the plant growth chamber based on a completely randomized design with 6 lighting spectra including White, Blue, Red and three combinations of R and B lights (R30:B70, R50:B50 and R70:B30) with three replications. The light intensity in all growth chambers was adjusted to photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD) of 250 ±10 μmol m-2s-1 and light spectrum were monitored using a sekonic light meter (Sekonic C-7000, Japan). Growth condition was set at 14/10 h day/night cycles, 25/22oC day/night temperatures and 40% relative humidity. Three month following plant growth under different light spectra, the plants were evaluated for their growth parameters, stomatal characteristics (stomatal length, stomatal width, pore length or aperture) transpiration rate (E), relative water content (RWC), photosynthetic apparatus (evaluation of OJIP) and essential oil content. Data analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed using IBM SAS software (Version 9.1) and the differences between means were assessed using Duncan’s multiple range tests at p≤ 0.05. Results The results showed that the stomata characteristics, photosynthetic performance, growth characteristics and essential oil content of Salvia officinalis were affected by different light spectra. Increasing the ratio of red light especially combined Red and Blue lights (R70:B30) led to the improvement of growth characteristics. Transient induction of chlorophyll fluorescence showed that the highest fluorescence intensities at all OJIP steps were detected in Red light. The lowest Fv/F0 and Fv/Fm were obtained in plants grown under Red light. Occurrence of leaf epinasty and decrease in Fv/Fm indicative of phenomenon of red light syndrome in the plants under Red treatment. Red light caused a reduction in performance index per absorbed light efficiency of (PIABS) and increase in quantum energy dissipation (ΦD0), light absorption (ABS/RC) and electron trapping (TR0/RC) per reaction center. The highest Fv/F0, Fv/Fm and PIABS were obtained under combination of Red and Rlue light. The highest ΦE0 was also detected in combination of Red and Blue light. The narrow and large stomatal apertures were detected under Red and Blue light, respectively. The highest transpiration rate was achieved in plants grown under Blue light LED. Increasing the ratio of Red light resulted in reduction in transpiration rate and improvement of leaf capacity to control water loss via reducing the opening of stomata. The highest amount of essential oil (1/75% v/w) was achieved in plants exposed to combination of Red:Blue light spectra (R70:B30). Conclusion light spectrum during plant growth can change plant metabolism, LED can be used in favor of producing good-quality food in controlled environment agriculture due to their ease of application, waveband manipulation and limited heat production. Our result showed that photosynthetic apparatus, growth parameters, stomatal characteristics, transpiration rate, relative water content and essential oil content of plants were considerably influenced by light spectra. Using OJIP test confirmed that plants grown under monochromatic Red and Blue lights were less efficient to successfully transfer the excitons and most of the absorbed energy by the photosystems was dissipated as heat. In conclusion, combined Red and Blue lights (especially R70:B30) caused favorable growth, photosynthetic functionality and maximum essential oil content of Salvia officinalis. Therefore, combination of R and B lights (R70:B30) should be considered for production of Salvia officinalis under artificial light systems during commercial controlled environment production of plants.

Introduction The diverse and magnificent plant kingdom of the world is widely known for its medicinal importance. Natural substances obtained from medicinal plants and their plant extracts are used for the treatment of a lot of diseases in human pathology as well as plant pathology. Therefore, it is important to understand the relationship between medicinal plant species and their environment in terms of producing optimal secondary metabolites. Salvia officinalis L., which belongs to Lamiaceae family, as the main herb in the world is cultivated in many countries. Essential oil from S. officinalis aerial parts is used as raw material in pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries. It has been known that different harvest times have a great effect on both quality and quantity of essential metabolites. Furthermore, the drying process, which is one of the post-harvest processes, is very expensive, but if it is done correctly, it significantly increases the efficiency and components of the essential oil after harvesting. In large-scale agriculture, S. officinalis raw materials needs a lot of space and high cost for drying process due to the large volume of material at harvest time. In this case, if it is possible to directly extract the essential oil with the desired quantity and quality from the fresh plant, the production cost will be significantly reduced from the economic point of view. For these reasons, it is necessary to determine optimum harvesting time(s) and plant material kinds affecting essential oil quantity and quality. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the yield and quality of valuable medicinal plant essential oil of S. officinalis in different harvesting times of fresh and dried plants throughout the year in Fars province to determine the yield and quality of essential oil. Materials and Methods For these purposes, aerial parts of S. officinalis in full flowering stage were collected from selected plants from a 3-year farm located in Saadatshahr city of Fars province. A factorial experiment based on a completely randomized blocks design with three replications and two factors include three different harvesting times (5th of May, 26th of July and 5th of November, 2020) and two types of plant materials (fresh and dry) was performed in the farm. The essential oils of different S. officinalis samples were extracted by hydro-distillation using Clevenger apparatus and with three replications. The yields were calculated based on dry weight and the oils were analyzed by a combination of GC-FID and GC-MS techniques, to check for chemical variability based on British Pharmacopoeia. At the end of the experiment, data analysis was performed using SAS software (version: 9.4). The means were compared by Duncan's multi-range test at a statistical level of 1%. Results and Discussion The results of the current study revealed that the essential oil content of S. officinalis aerial parts harvested at different times and plant materials ranged from 0.19% to 1.18% (w/w). It was found that the interaction effects of harvesting times and plant materials on the essential oil yield was significant at the 1% probability level, and the comparison of the average interaction effects of harvesting times and plant materials showed that the highest essential oil yield of S. officinalis was related to the second harvesting time (26th of July, 2020) and the dry plant material (1.18 % w/w). Meanwhile, the lowest yield of essential oil (0.19% w/w) was obtained in the first harvesting time (5th of May, 2020) and in fresh plant material. 34 different constituents have been identified in which 22 compounds were common. Monoterpene hydrocarbons were the main group of compounds in all studied plant samples. The key compounds of essential oil were 1,8-cineol, α-thujone, β-pinene and camphor. The comparison of the average interaction effects of harvesting times and plant materials on the main compounds of the essential oil demonstrated that the interaction effects on α-thujone and camphor constituents were significant at the 1% probability level and for β-pinene were were significant at the 5% probability level. The results of this research showed that the yield of essential oil in dry plant materials was higher than in fresh plant materials and different harvesting times had a significant effect on the quantitative and qualitative performance of essential oil. Conclusion Eventually, the results obtained from this study showed that the quantity and quality of essential oil in S. officinalis were influenced by the different harvesting times and plant materials. In order to achieve the maximum quantity and quality of essential oil in this species, the best type of plant materials was dry plant material and the best harvesting times was the summer harvesting in the full flowering stage. Due to the fact that the performance of essential oil at different harvesting times fluctuates in terms of quantity and quality during the growing season, it is necessary to have the essential oil certificated from each harvest in order to successfully enter the market.

In the conventional agricultural systems, the excessive use of chemical inputs, such as chemical fertilizers, increased the agricultural productivity. Detrimental implications from intensive agricultural practices and long-term use of chemical fertilizers have been well evidenced on the environment and human health. Intercropping system and application of organic fertilizers and biofertilizers including vermicompost and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are recommended in the development of sustainable agricultural systems. The objectives were evaluating the effect of different fertilizer sources on the quantity and quality characteristics of Salvia officinalis L.Materials and methods The experiment consisted of two successive phases at the Miandoab, Iran in 2019-2020. The first was cultivation of spring green manure until the soft dough stage of barley and flowering stage of hairy vetch then returned to the soil, and the second phase was cultivation of medicinal plant of sage. Two species, barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) and hairy vetch (Vicia villosa), were used as green manure. In second phase, a field experiment study was carried out as split plot in time based on a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with 16 treatments and three replications. The main plot factor was eight different fertilizer sources including control (C), barley monoculture (B), hairy vetch monoculture (V), 75% V + 25% B, 50% V + 50% B and 25% V + 75% B, AMF: arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus (Rhizophagus intraradices) and vermicompost. Also the sub plot factor was harvesting time (first and second harvest). In AM fungi treatments, 80 g of the soil containing mycorrhizal fungi hyphae and the remains of the root and spores was added to soil in planting times. Also, vermicompost (2 t ha-1) was applied to the soil before planting. Analysis of variance of the data and mean comparison based on least significant difference (LSD) test and interaction effect slicing of different fertilizer sources × harvesting time were carried out by using of SAS 9.3 statistical software.Results and DiscussionThe plant height, number of lateral branches, number of leaves, chlorophyll index, leaf dry weight, stem dry weight, essential oil percentage and yield was significantly affected by interaction of diffirent fertilizer sources×harvesting time. The highest of dry matter yield was achieved under AMF followed by 50% V+ 50% B. Also the highest of chlorophyll index and essential oil percentage of sage was obtained in 50% V + 50% B and first harvest. Also, the first harvesting time increased by 33.9, 10.7 and 40.7% this trait in comparison with second harvest. In addition, the maximum of essential oil yield was observed in AMF followed by 50% V+ 50% B in first harvest. Chemical analysis of the essential oil of sage demonstrated that in all treatements, cis-Thujone, 1, 8-cineole and camphor were the main dominant components. The maximum of cis-Thujone, 1, 8-cineole content was achieved in 50% V+ 50% B and second harvest. Also, the highest of camphor observed in 25% V+ 75% B treatment and first harvest. The roots of green manure plants can uptake nutrients from the lower layers of soil and transfer them to the aerial parts of plant. By incorporating green manure, the sage growth characteristics improved as a result of increasing soil microbiological processes and releasing of nutrients. Also, mycorrhizal fungus inoculation enhanced plant performance by increasing root surface area, turgor pressure adjustment, gradual availability to nutrients and water. Since essential oils are terpenoid components so that for the biosynthesis of precursor compounds (isoprenoids) such as isopentenyl pyrophosphate and dimethylallyl pyrophosphate necessary Acetyl-CoA, NADPH and ATP and mineral nutrients like N and P. Treating plots with 50% V + 50% B and AMF increase the essential oil percentage and compounds through releasing of nitrogen and phosphorus into the soil. Also, the higher morphological traits, essential oil percentage and yield in the first harvest than the second harvest can be attributed to longer growing period and optimal growth conditions (day length, sunlight, ambient temperature).Treating plots with green manure and AMF improve the morphological traits, quantity and quality of sage essential oil through adjustment the soil chemical properties. According to the quantity and quality indicators, application of 50% V+ 50% B as green manure and AMF can be suggested as an efficient and eco-friendly agricultural strategy in sage cultivation.

Introduction It is believed that edible oils and fats with high levels of unsaturated fatty acids are susceptible to oxidation. Soybean oil as one of the four important edible oils has high content of polyunsaturated fatty acids and so prone to oxidation. Generally, lipid oxidation leads to deterioration of nutritional quality and organoleptic properties of edible oils and fats as well as accelerate the development or progression of cancer, mutagenesis, carcinogenesis, aging and cardiovascular diseases through the formation of free radicals. Therefore, edible oils and fats fortification with antioxidant compounds in order to protect them against oxidation is essential. In recent years, numerous studies were carried out on exploration of natural and safe antioxidant compounds due to the consumers concerns about potential health risk of synthetic antioxidants, such as butylatedhydroxyanisole (BHA), butylatedhydroxytolene (BHT), tert-butylhydroquinone (TBHQ) and propylgallate (PG). In this regard, TBHQ as the most powerful synthetic antioxidant is prohibited as food additive in Japan, Canada and Europe. Ferulago angulata Boiss which called chavir or chavil belongs to the family of Apiacea consisting of 35–40 species that 8 species grow in Iran. It was reported that Ferulago species are used in folk medicine for their tonic, digestive, sedative, aphrodisiac properties from ancient times. Therefore, in the current study, the oxidation development of soybean oil enriched with F. angulata essential oil (EO) during accelerated storage was investigated. Materials and Methods EO from freeze dried aerial parts of F. angulata was extracted through hydrodistillation using Clevenger type apparatus. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was used to identify main components of the EO. Total phenolic and flavonoid content of the EO were assessed using Folin–Ciocalteu and aluminium chloride colorimetry methods, respectively. Antioxidant activity of EO was measured through 2, 2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and reducing power (RP) tests. Then, the EO of F. angulata at three concentrations, i.e. 200 ppm (SO-200), 400 ppm (SO-400), and SO-Mixture (100 ppm TBHQ + 100 ppm EO) were added to soybean oil. The synthetic antioxidant of TBHQ at the concentration of 200 ppm was added as control. The effect of EO from freeze dried aerial parts of F. angulata on oxidative stability of soybean oil stored under accelerated conditions at 65 ºC for 24 days was evaluated through acidity, peroxide (PV), p-anisidine (p-An) and TOTOX values. Results and Discussion Extraction yield, total phenolic and flavonoid contents of EO of F. angulata were 2.5% v/w, 188 mg GAE/g and 70.90 mg QE/g respectively. Furthermore, DPPH free radical scavenging activity and RP were 55.45-13.21% and 3.61-2.72 in the concentration range of 1.6-4.6 mg/ml of EO, respectively. Based on GC-MS analysis, the EO contains 41 natural compounds, representing 96.97% of the total EO. F. angulata EO could effectively reduce the acidity, PV and p-An values. For control sample, the maximum values of acidity, PV peroxide, p-An and TOTOX were 1.52 mg KOH/g, 10.60 meq O2/kg, 12.48 and 33.68 respectively after 24 days under accelerated conditions. While these values were 0.085 mg KOH/g, 4.5 meq O2/kg, 9.16 and 18.16 respectively for the soybean oil containing the lowest concentration of EO of F. angulata. Conclusion The results confirmed the instability of soybean oil during storage as well as the ability of EO from F. angulata for soybean oil protection against oxidation. As a result, EO from aerial parts of F. angulata could be suggested as a natural and effective antioxidant to be used instead of TBHQ as a synthetic antioxidant for soybean oil stabilization.

IntroductionMedicinal plants have long had a special place in the traditional ‎agricultural system of Iran and the use of these plants as medicine to prevent and treat diseases has been considered by ‎traditional medicine experts since ancient times. Medicinal plants with rich sources of secondary metabolites provide the ‎basic active ingredients of many medicines. Although the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites is genetically controlled, ‎but their construction is strongly influenced by environmental factors. One of the important climatic factors that affect the ‎distribution of plants around the world and can cause morphological, physiological and biochemical changes in the plant is ‎the lack of available water. Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) seems to show little resistance to water stress. For this reason, there is a need for protective mechanisms for the ‎basil plant against stress due to water shortage. Plants are able to reduce or eliminate the effects of water shortage ‎stress by coexisting with a number of soil microorganisms. ‎Coexistence relationship plant with T. harzianum fungi is one of the ways to reduce dehydration ‎in plants. These mushrooms by altering some of the root properties and absorbing nutrients in the host plants, they reduce ‎the destructive effects of water shortage stress. Observing the positive effect of these fungi in increasing the absorption of nutrients from the soil, improving plant water relations, increasing water use efficiency in plants and finally increasing plant resistance to water deficit stresses on the one hand and on the other hand. The existence of water crises in different countries has prompted researchers to further study this aspect of the symbiotic relationship between the host plant and Trichoderma harzianum. ‎ Materials and MethodsPresent study was performed to investigate the effect of T. harzianum on the antioxidant content of Ocimum basilicum under water deficit stress. It is also intended to evaluate the effects of an endophytic fungi namely T. harzianum on the shoot yield, photosynthetic pigments, content and yield of essential oil from O. ‎basilicum under water deficit stress. All experiments were performed as the factorial based on completely randomized design blocks with three replications in greenhouse condition. The experimental factors were the different irrigation regimes including 100, 75, 50 and 25% of field capacity and two concentrations of the T. harzianum (106 and 109 CFU/ml). At the beginning of flowering, water deficit stress was applied at four levels of 25, 50, 75 and the control treatment (100 percent) of field capacity until three weeks later. The application of water stress was such that the pots were weighed daily and the moisture deficiency in each treatment was removed by watering the pots until reaching the desired treatment level. After applying the stress, sampling and measuring traits were done at the full flower stage. After the plants reach the full flowering period, various traits including plant height, number of leaves, fresh and dry weight yield of the plant (as the economic yield of basil) and fresh and dry weight yield of roots per square meter, chlorophyll a, b, total (T), carotenoid, colonization percentage, yield and essential oil content were measured in all the plants in the pots. Results and DiscussionIncreasing the level of water stress reduced the economic performance of basil (O. basilicum). Coexistence with Trichoderma reduced the destructive effects of dehydration on the plant. With the application of dehydration stress, the essential oil content increased in mild and moderate stresses, but the yield of essential oil did not differ significantly from the control and plant height, number of leaves and plant pigments decreased under dehydration stress. According to the experimental results, it can be said that Trichoderma with a population density of 106 (spores per ml of inoculum) had a better effect on most growth indices, while the effect Trichoderma with a population density of 109 (spores per milliliter of inoculum) on important traits such as shoot fresh weight yield (212.2 g), percentage (0.7%) and essential oil yield It was higher. According to the obtained results, it can be stated that inoculation of basil with Trichoderma increased the percentage and yield of essential oil in both water stress and non-stress conditions, and considering that in cultivation of plants the goal is to increase the effective substance. It is in these plants. ConclusionFinally, the results indicated that the use of Trichoderma mushroom in comparison with the control (without inoculation with the fungus) under water stress conditions has the ability to improve plant growth and leads to an increase in plant efficiency under water stress conditions.

Background and Objective: Today, the use of medicinal plants as one of the most effective methods in the field of health and business is continuously increasing in all societies of the world. The dill is one of these medicinal plants that seeds, shoot, and essential oil are used in medical, health, cosmetic, and food cases. Among the required factors for plants, micro-elements elements play a significant role in feeding and increasing of plant yield. Also, in recent years, due to the increasing attention to the production of healthy food products and to prevent the harmful effects of chemical fertilizers on plant and soil resources, the application of biofertilizers has been considered. Due to the importance of dill as a medicinal plant and reducing the use of chemical fertilizers, as well as the few conducted studies on the effect of biofertilizers and foliar application of micro-elements on dill, the present study was conducted to investigate the yield, yield components, and essential oil of the dill plant in response to the application of phosphozist and nitrozist biofertilizers and foliar application of zinc and iron elements. Materials and Methods: The experiment was conducted as a randomized complete block design with three replications in 2019. Experimental treatments included foliar application with zinc from zinc sulfate, iron from iron sulfate and combined application of zinc and iron, and biofertilizer treatments consisted of application of phosphozist biofertilizer, pbt of nitrozist biofertilizer, combined pbt of phosphozist and nitrozist biofertilizers and control (spraying with distilled water). Results: The results showed that the highest plant height, number of umbels per plant, number of umbellets per umbel, number of seeds per umbel, percentage and yield of shoot essential oil were achieved from the combined application of nitrozist and phosphozist biofertilizers. There was no significant difference with foliar application of zinc and iron. In terms of grain yield, root dry weight and percentage and yield of grain essential oil, the application of these biofertilizers was significantly superior to other treatments. The combined use of phosphozist and nitrozist biofertilizers and iron and zinc foliar application improved the grain yield up to 10.5 and 6.9%, respectively. Conclusion: Based on the results of this study, in order to produce more grain yield, yield components and essential oil in dill, the combined application of nitrozist and phosphozist biofertilizers was identified as the most desirable nutritional treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & Objective: The present study was conducted to investigate the effects of natural and organic fertilizers, compared to chemical fertilizers on quantitative and qualitative characteristics of black cumin. Materials & Methods: Factorial experiment was carried out in a randomized complete block design with two factors and three replications at the Research Farm of the University of Kurdistan during 2021 growing season. The first factor consisted of three levels of fertilizer (control, digested fertilizer, and chemical fertilizer) and the second factor included three concentrations of humic acid foliar application (0, 200, and 400 mg.L-1). Results: The digested fertilizer significantly increased plant height, capsules number per plant, seeds number per capsule, grain and biological yield, oil percentage and yield, and essential oil yield. These mentioned traits significantly increased with humic acid foliar application except for essential oil yield. The third level of humic acid had the most effect. The highest values of seed nitrogen and phosphorus content belonged to the integrated treatment of digested fertilizer and 400 mg.L-1 humic acid. Conclusion: The digested fertilizer and humic acid (400 mg.L-1) improved the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of black cumin and they can be alternative inputs for chemical fertilizers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objectives: To minimize the use of antibiotics, additives, and chemical preservatives, it is possible to incorporate natural antimicrobial substances into packaging. Recent studies focusing on developing and evaluating edible films have highlighted the effectiveness of essential oils in protecting against microbial growth, preventing food spoilage (both chemical and microbial), and reducing food waste. Films containing gelatin display impressive mechanical strength, making them suitable for edible film production due to their ability to form a gel-like structure, which is attributed to the presence of certain amino acids like proline and hydroxyproline. Taking into account the plentiful availability and affordability of thyme, oregano, and sage essential oils in our country, as well as the low cost of gelatin, this particular composition of film could serve as a model for widespread implementation in the food packaging. Materials and methods: In this study, the impact of various concentrations of thyme, oregano, and sage essential oils on gelatin based films properties was investigated. The study examined different concentrations of essential oil ranging from minimum 0% to highest 4% as the independent variable. The dependent variables included a range of physicochemical tests ( solubility, water permeability, thickness, opacity, and color parameters), as well as mechanical tests (elongation at the break point, tensile strength, and Young's model). The study utilized a mixed experimental design known as simplex lattice and employed Design Expert13 software. Results: In this research, the highest tensile strength (12 MPa), elongation at break point (26%) and Young's modulus (80 MPa) were found in high concentrations of oregano essential oil (4%). Among the treatments, the lowest solubility was in the highest concentration of oregano essential oil in the mixture (4% area) and the lowest water vapor permeability(WVP) was obtained in the lowest concentration of oregano essential oil in the mixture. The difference among the amount of turbidity of the films was not significant. The highest turbidity was indicated in film with the lowest concentration of oregano essential oil. The highest amount of film thickness was obtained in the present of 4% concentration of oregano essential oil, which was statistically significant. By increasing the concentration of thyme essential oil in the mixture, the hue angle, whiteness index and saturation decrease, and its highest amount was in the area of 4% oregano and sage. The changes of a* and b* parameters was similar, but the concentration of essential oils has no effect on the changes of L* parameter. Conclusion: The results of this research showed that adding a high concentration of oregano essential oil to the gelatin film compared to thyme and sage essential oils produced films with sufficient strength that have the highest efficiency and desirable characteristics. It can be used as a suitable coating for food protection by delaying the oxidation of lipids, mechanical properties and favorable color changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Fennel, scientifically named Foeniculum vulgare L., is one of the most important and widely used medicinal plants of the Apiaceae family. This condition ultimately affects its performance, reducing it. Methods: Therefore, in order to evaluate weed control and boost performance via plant density, trifluralin herbicide, and mechanical control, an experiment was conducted in the form of randomized complete blocks with three factors and three replications in the Faculty of Agriculture, Khuzestan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources in 2019-2020. Tested factors included mechanical control at two levels (without cultivator and double cultivator), plant density at three levels (6, 12, and 24 plants per square meter) and application of trifluralin herbicide at three levels (zero as a weed control), 1.5, and 3 liters per hectare). Results: The results of this study showed that treatment with (density of 24 plants per square meter of fennel and 1.5 liters per hectare of trifluralin and with 2 cultivators) did not show any significant difference from the abovementioned treatment. Conclusion: Therefore, to reduce the use of herbicides, a dose of 1.5 liters of trifluralin can be used instead of a dose of 3 liters, along with 2 cultivators. The highest economic yield of fennel (1313 kg/ha) belonged to the two plots above. This study showed that the highest essential oil was observed in double cultivator plots by 9.5% and the lowest in uncultivated plots by 4.76%, indicating the effectiveness of the cultivator compared to other factors in the production of essential oil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Owing to the importance of using nanotechnology in sustainable agriculture to increase the quantitative and qualitative yield of agricultural products, this study aimed to investigate the effect of foliar application of iron, potassium, calcium, and manganese nanoparticles on some morphophysiological traits and nutrient uptake of peppermint (Mentha piperita L.), a main medicinal plants of the Lamiaceae family, in a completely randomized design with three replications in a greenhouse located in Islamshahr during 2018. Foliar application treatments of iron, potassium, calcium, and manganese nano-chelates included three levels of 2, 4, and 6 mg/L. The foliar treatments were applied in three stages with one week intervals, and sampling was performed to evaluate the traits two weeks after the last treatment. Results showed that the application of nano-chelates significantly increased the evaluated traits compared to the control. The application of iron nano-chelate at 6 mg/L increased fresh and dry weights of shoot and total chlorophyll and iron contents while the highest concentration of essential oil was observed in the treatment with iron nano-chelate (4 mg/L). Also, the highest fresh and dry weights of roots and potassium content were obtained in the treatment with potassium nano-chelate (6 mg/L). Moreover, concentrations of phenol and manganese increased with the applying manganese nano-chelate (6 mg/L), the flavonoids and vitamin C contents increased with applying manganese nano-chelate (4 mg/L), and the highest level of calcium was observed in calcium nano-chelate (6 mg/L) treatment. In sum, according to the results of this study, the application of iron, potassium, calcium, and manganese nano-chelates with concentrations of 4 and 6 mg/L had a positive effect on increasing the productivity of peppermint. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Fruits and vegetables are perishable due to high humidity and biological activity after harvesting (breathing, transpiration and biochemical activities). Covering fruits with antimicrobial compounds, while being edible and safe for consumers, is an effective solution to prevent the spoilage of fruits and increase their shelf life. In developing countries, packaging, storage and transportation technologies for these products have not been developed yet. One of the cheap and high-performance methods to increase the shelf life of fruit and maintain its quality during the storage period is to use a coating on the fruit. The purpose of coating application is to reduce water loss, slow aging, polish and better marketing. In addition to improving quality, coating can protect the fruit from pathogens and contamination. Edible coatings create a thin layer on the surface of the food that are effective and eco-friendly alternatives and maintain the firmness of fresh fruits and vegetables. The main components of edible coatings are natural polysaccharides, including starch, cellulose, pectin, alginates and chitosan. These coatings apply by spraying, immersion or rubbing. The use of essential oils and other extracts of medicinal plants has been evaluated in the development of edible coatings. Adding Ziziphora tenuior L. essential oil to food has been considered as an antioxidant and antimicrobial compound. Directly use of essential oils for fruits and vegetable shelf life has some limitations due to low solubility in water, high vapor pressure and physical and chemical instability. One of the ways to reduce these limitations is the nanoencapsulation of essential oil as. Applications of nano technology to the development of edible coatings (included various nanosystems, including polymeric nanoparticles, nanoemulsions), efforts to control the release of essential oils. Aloe vera gel, which is extracted from the inner parts of the leaves, is clear, odorless, completely healthy and environmentally friendly and can replace the coverings used after harvesting fruits. This is a polysaccharide gel, it dissolves easily in water and has advantages such as preserving the aromatic substances inside the fruit, covering the wound and cuts and it is possible to add substances such as vitamins and essential oils to this gel. Due to the antibacterial properties of aloe vera, adding aloe vera gel to edible coatings can increase the antibacterial properties of this biodegradable coating. On the other hand, using nano technology can increase the efficiency, consistency and better quality of food coatings. Materials and Methods The aim of the present study was to prepare and produce an oral coating of nanoecapsule containing Ziziphora tenuior L. essential oil. The components of the nanocapsule of Aloe vera gel was water, toewin and Ziziphora tenuior L. essential oil. Fresh Aloe vera leaves were used to prepare gel. Zeta-average diameter, particle size distribution, scattering index (PDI) and zeta potential (particle surface charge) were measured. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) imaging was used to evaluate the morphology of the nanocapsule. The stability of produced nanocapsule was evaluated by measuring the particle size changes for 3 months. Results and Discussion 21 compounds were identified in the essential oil of Ziziphora tenuior. The main and important constituents of Ziziphora tenuior L. essential oil were Pulegone, Menthofuran and 1,8-Cineole. The results showed that the particle size of nanocapsule containing essential oil was 84.46 nm and zeta potential was -16.02 mV. The results of transmission electron microscope (TEM) photos showed that the size of the particles is less than 200 nanometers and the shape of the particles is almost spherical. The outer surface of the capsules is completely smooth and uniform. Stability studies of particle size and zeta potential for 3 months showed that nanocapsule containing essential oils had good stability. In this formulation, the zeta potential was about -16 mV, which is due to the non-ionic parts of the surfactant on the surface of the nanocapsule, which contributes to the repulsion force and caused the stability of the size of the nanocapsules. In order to determine the amount of essential oil in the nanocapsule, spectrophotometric method was used. The percentage of essential oil in nanocapsule was 83.25%. Conclusion Nanoencapsulation of essential is one of the ways to reduce the limitations of essential oil aplication. In the present study, a nancapsule with natural and biodegradable materials (Aloe vera gel) containing Ziziphora tenuior L. essential oil was prepared and the results showed that Ziziphora tenuior L. essential oil was successfully encapsulated in Aloe vera gel. In general, the results of the present study showed that the nanocapsule of Aloe vera gel is a suitable carrier for Ziziphora tenuior L. essential oil and can be used as an oral coating to preserve fruits and vegetables.

Introduction Satureja hortensis L. is an annual herbaceous plant of the mint family that has numerous raised or creeping stems or arched stems with a height of 10 to 30 cm. The height of this plant reaches a maximum of 60 cm. The stems and branches are usually covered with hairs. The leaves are opposite, have short or almost no petioles. The leaves are opposite, the petioles are short or almost without petioles, there are many small spots on the surface of the leaf called the tuber, which contains the essential oil. Knowledge of environmental, plant and agro-factors play an important role in the success of medicinal plants. One of the factors affecting the growth and development and production of active ingredients of medicinal and aromatic plants is water, the lack of which has a greater effect on reducing production than other inputs. Drought stress is an important global constraint on agricultural production and food security. Recently, there has been a growing interest in reducing the use of chemical fertilizers and exploring alternative methods for producing high-quality crops. This is particularly important in arid and semi-arid regions like most parts of Iran, where soil nutrient levels are often low. The use of biofertilizers can help strengthen plants and promote sustainable crop production. The objective of this study was to examine the impact of salicylic acid foliar application, Mycorrhiza-Azotobacter bio-fertilizers, and drought stress on the morphological and physiological characteristics of summer savory, a medicinal plant. Materials and Methods This experiment was conducted to evaluate some traits of summer savory in response to biological fertilizers, salicylic acid and drought stress in Zamanabad village of Rey city (Tehran province) during 2018 and 2017. This experiment was conducted using a randomized complete block design with three replications, as a factorial split plot. The main factor was irrigation, with three levels including soil moisture potential (as a control), potential of -5.5 atmospheres as medium stress, and potential of -10 atmospheres as severe stress. Sub-factors included four levels of biological fertilizers: No inoculation, seed inoculation with Azotobacter strain, seed inoculation with Mycorrhiza, and concomitant use of Azotobacter + Mycorrhiza. Salicylic acid was also considered at two levels: no foliar application and foliar application with a concentration of 0.6 mM. The following plant characteristics were studied: plant height, root dry weight, shoot dry weight, total chlorophyll content, proline content, percentage, and essential oil yield. At full flowering stage, the plants were harvested and placed in an oven at 75 ° C for 24 hours to measure the dry weight of roots and shoots. 10 g of leaves and flowering twigs from each replicate were transferred to the laboratory to measure physiological traits. SAS 9.4 software was used to perform a two-year combined analysis of variance for the recorded traits. To ensure the uniformity of variance of errors, the Bartlett uniformity test of variance was performed based on the mean squares and the degree of error freedom in two years. Mean traits were also compared using the least significant difference test (LSD) at the 5% probability level. Results and Discussion The results showed that the effect of drought stress, fertilizer and salicylic acid treatments on the studied traits of plant height and shoot and root dry weight, chlorophyll content, percentage and yield of essential oil and proline content were significant. Salicylic acid and the combined application of Azotobacter + mycorrhiza increased plant height, plant dry weight and root, as well as increased chlorophyll content, proline, percentage and yield of safflower essential oil under drought stress. According to the results of this experiment, it can be argued that the response of plant height, plant dry weight and essential oil yield to the increase in drought stress levels was negative, but the root dry weight, total chlorophyll, proline and essential oil percentage were the opposite response. The highest amount of these traits was observed in severe stress conditions and the combined application of bio-fertilizers (Azotobacter + Mycorrhiza) and salicylic acid 0.6 mM had a positive and increasing effect compared to other levels of bio-fertilizer and salicylic acid in The studied traits of the present study were observed. Conclusion According to the results of this experiment, the application of bio-fertilizers and foliar application of salicylic acid causes dehydration and dehydration, as well as the presence of essential oils, nutrients, and the quality of summer safflower under drought stress.

Background: The use of edible coatings and essential oils is important due to their biodegradability, shelf life, and quality characteristics of harvested products. Methods: The present study was conducted in the form of a completely randomized design with 6 treatments including control, chitosan (2%), sumac extract (4%), cumin essential oil (5 μl), chitosan + sumac extract, and chitosan + cumin essential oil in 3 replications and qualitative characteristics of Agaricus bisporus mushroom were evaluated on days 0, 7, 14, and 21 of storage. Findings: The highest tissue stiffness and antioxidant capacity was observed on the day 21 in cumin essential oil and control treatments, respectively. Malondialdehyde (MDA) increased with the increase of storage time from day 0 to day 21. The highest activity of polyphenol oxidase was obtained on the day 7 in the treatment of cumin essence. On the days 7, 14, and 21, the treatment with cumin essential oil and sumac extract showed the highest weight loss. The highest L* color index was observed on day 0 in the control treatment and the highest a* color index was observed on day 7 in chitosan and chitosan + sumac extract treatments. Under the treatment of chitosan on days 14 and 21 and chitosan + cumin essence on day 14, the lowest b* color index was observed. The highest browning index was observed on days 7, 14, and 21 in chitosan + sumac extract, chitosan + cumin essence, and chitosan treatments. Conclusion: The research treatments showed different results on the qualitative characteristics and shelf life of Agaricus bisporus mushroom. Cumin essential oil and sumac extract alone and in combination with chitosan during the storage period had an effect on the quality characteristics of Agaricus bisporus mushroom.

IntroductionSalinity is one of the major environmental stressors limiting the growth and development of plant in the agricultural system. Salinity affects the plants from the physiological, biological and molecular point of view. Emphasizely, salinity influence the plants growth and productivity by the induction of water stress, ionic toxicity (Na+, Cl-) and nutrients imbalances. With stress goings on, ROS molecules is produced leading to membranes oxidation damage and hence deteriorate the membranes and adversely impact the plant growth and physiological response. Na high accumulation in the soil medium interferes the nutrient balance in the soil and plant cells, leading to disturbances in nutrients uptake deficiency symptoms, oxidative damage, growth reduction and eventually death of plants. In the saline soils, Na+/K+ and Na+/Ca2+ ratios, high above the standard levels and hence the absorption and essential amounts of K+ and Ca2+ is inhibited; membranes deteriorate and the enzymatic dynamics inside cells is interrupted which is called the induced secondary stress. ROS radicals influenced the activity of chloroplast and mitochondria and eventually the plant survival is affected. Considering the main idea with the present study was to assess the effects of salinity stress on the growth and some physiological traits of Lavandula treated with foliar application in hope that the possible promising data could be advisable to the extension section.Materials and MethodsTwo separate experiments were concluded to evaluate the effects of foliar application of nano-cerium oxide and nano-Iron (0, 2.5 and 5 mg.L-1) on Lavandula officinalis L. under saline (0, 50 and 100 mM) conditions as factorial based on Completely Randomized Design in the greenhouse. In the first experiment, the effects of magnetized Iron and in the second experiment, the effect of cerium oxide were assayed on Lavandula officinalis growth and some physiological traits under salinity stress.Results and DiscussionThe results obtained from the first experiment showed that, the plant dry weight, catalase activity and Fe content were independently affected by the salinity and Fe foliar treatment. H2O2 content (4.6 µmol. g-1FW), total phenolic content (36% increases compared to the control) and oil percent (41% increases compared to the control) were influenced by interaction effects of salinity and nano Fe foliar application. The top amounts of Na (8.9 g.Kg-1), proline (94 µg.g-1FW), malondialdehyde (82 nmol.g-1 FW) and H2O2 were recorded at 100 mM salinity stress. At the second experiment, plant dry weight (25% increases compared to the control) and total phenolic content (29% increases compared to the control) were influenced by interaction effects of cerium oxide foliar application and salinity stress. Catalase activity, H2O2 and K content were influenced by sole effects of salinity and cerium oxide foliar application. 2.5 and 5 mg L-1 cerium oxide treatment increased K content (43% compared to the control) and K/Na ratio. GC/MS analysis revealed that Linalool (10.3-27.1%) and 1-8-Cineol were the major constituent of oil at NaCl50 and 100 mM × 5 mg.L-1 cerium spray.ConclusionOur results revealed that cerium oxide and nano-Fe foliar application improved the plants physiological response under no-saline condition. Salinity adversely imposed the yield, some physiological traits and elemental content of plants. Under 50 and 100 mM salinity foliar treatment were not able to mitigate salinity adverse effects except for phenolic content (both experiment), essential oil content (first experiment) and plant dry weight (the second experiment). In total, lavender is a salt sensitive plant and the idea is that to overcome salinity depression, have to experience more concentration of foliar treatment.Acknowledgementshis study was supported and funded by Azarbaijan shahid Madani University, Iran

Background and Aims: The opioid system plays a key role in opioid tolerance and dependence. Furthermore, studies have shown that the opioid system plays a role in the analgesic effects of Ferula gummosa extract. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the effect of Ferula gummosa essential oil (FGEO) on morphine tolerance and dependence in mice. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, 60 albino mice were divided into 10 groups of 6 as follows: carrier (10 ml/kg), diazepam (5 mg/kg), and FGEO (40, 20, and 10 mg/kg). To induce morphine tolerance or dependence, it was administrated 3 times for 3 days. In the tolerance phase, drugs were injected intraperitoneally for 30 minutes before morphine administration. In the dependence phase, the drugs were used only on the 4th day (test day). The withdrawal signs were recorded for 30-min. The data were analyzed in SPSS software (version 20) through ANOVA and Kruskal-Wallis statistical tests, followed by Tukey's and Ben Feroni's post hoc tests.. Results: In total, 20 and 40 mg/kg doses of FGEO in the tolerance phase and only the high dose of the essential oil (40 mg/kg) decreased the number of jumps in the dependence phase. Other behaviors (e.g., diarrhea, stomach cramps, standing on two feet, climbing, wet dog shakes, self-treatment, and teeth chattering) decreased by FGEO in both phases. Conclusion: FGEO decreased morphine tolerance and dependence and possibly was useful for the treatment of opioid dependence after complimentary trials.

Background and objectives: Asafoetida (Ferula assa foetida L.) is a crucial pharmaceutical-industrial species native to Iranian rangelands and is harvested by local communities. The resulting slurry is a significant export in the medicinal plants sector. However, the quality of the product declines as local beneficiaries collect slurries from different age bases, mix them, and supply them to the market. This study aims to investigate the antimicrobial properties, total phenolic content (TPC), and total flavonoid content (TFC) of asafoetida slurry obtained from different harvest methods to optimize product quality. Methodology: A factorial completely randomized design was employed in the rangeland of Tangsorkh, Boyerahmad County. Asafoetida slurry was harvested from three age groups (5-6 years old, 7-8 years old, and 9-10 years old) in June, July, August, and September. Essential oil extraction, TPC, and TFC measurements were conducted, and the antimicrobial effects (MIC and MBC) were tested against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Aspergillus flavus, and Aspergillus parasiticus. Results: The results showed that the TPC and TFC of asafetida slurry essential oil obtained from different ages and harvest times did not significantly differ. In terms of age, the highest (92 mg GA/g) and lowest (74 mg GA/g) TPC values belonged to the groups of 1 and 3, respectively. Similarly, the highest (37 mg quercetin/g) and lowest (20 mg quercetin/g) TFC values were respectively associated with the groups of 1 and 3. In terms of the harvest time, the highest TPC (93 mg GA/g) was found in the essential oil obtained in June, while the lowest TPC (56 mg GA/g) was related to the essential oil extracted in September. Similarly, the highest (37 mg quercetin/g) and lowest (19.3 mg quercetin/g) TFC values were respectively associated with the essential oils obtained from the products harvested in June and September. The results also demonstrated that the MICs of the essential oil were equal to 1250, 312.5, 625, and 625 ppm for E. coli, S. aureus, A. flavus, and A. parasiticus, respectively. Furthermore, the MBCs of the essential oil were respectively equal to 2500, 650, 1250, and 1250 for the four microorganisms. Conclusion: The study highlights the influence of plant age and harvest time on the nutraceutical composition of asafoetida slurry. Younger plants harvested earlier exhibited higher TPC and TFC, accompanied by more pronounced antimicrobial effects. These findings underscore the importance of optimizing harvest methods to enhance the quality of asafoetida slurry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The Vitex pseudo-negundo plant is one of the types of medicinal plants that grow in natural ecosystems and often on the margins of seasonal rivers, dry rivers, mesial beds and alluvial land ranges in the central highlands of the country. Fars province is one of the important habitats of this plant and it is important to collect information about the distribution of this plant in different parts of Fars province. Studies have shown that the plant has anti-cancer, antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral, disinfectant and antifungal effects, and is also widely used in traditional medicine as an anti-inflammatory, tonic, diuretic, appetite suppressant. It is used as astringent, narcotic, carminative and anti-flatulent. The aim of this research is to investigate the phytochemical contents of the essential oil of the Vitex pseudo-negundo medicinal plant grown in the natural habitats of Darab city. Materials and Methods: At first, the natural habitats of the plant in the city were determined on the map by field survey. In each area, the height above the sea level, latitude and longitude were measured by a positioning device (GPS, Vista model, Taiwan). Due to the high density and abundance of the Vitex pseudo-negundo plant in the Fasarood area of Darab, the physical and chemical characteristics The soil of this habitat, such as soil acidity, electrical conductivity and soil elements, was also recorded through soil sampling and data analysis. Then the fresh leaves of the plant were collected from the habitats in question. In order to prevent undesirable changes, the collected plant organs were dried in the shade at a temperature of 10-20 degrees Celsius. In order to extract essential oil, 100 grams of flowering branches crushed by a mill were extracted by distillation with water using a Clevenger machine for 3 hours in the laboratory of medicinal plants of the Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources of Darab city. Separation of essential oil from the column of the device was done with a special syringe. The resulting essential oils were separated from the surface of the water by anhydrous sulfate, dehumidified, then weighed and then the percentage of essential oil production efficiency was calculated through the formula. After dehydrating, the essential oil was stored in a closed glass container in a refrigerator at a temperature of 4 degrees Celsius until it was injected into the gas chromatograph. Gas chromatography (GC: Gas chromatography) and gas chromatographymass spectrometry (GC-MS: Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry) were used to determine the quantity and quality of essential oil compounds. Results and discussion: One of the important results of this research, compared to the results of similar research on Vitex pseudo-negundo plant in different regions of the country, is the identification of 43 different compounds in Vitex pseudo-negundo plant essential oil by chromatography method. The comparison of the efficiency of essential oils in different regions of the city showed that the percentage of essential oil efficiency was respectively in different areas of the habitat of this plant in Darab city, including Fateh Abad (0.6), Arab Chegini (0.4), Jannet Shahr (0.5)., Katouye strait (0.3), Raghaz strait (0.2), Ab Barik (0.7) and Fasarood (0.9). According to the present research, the percentage of essential oil in the habitats of Darab city was determined between 0.2 and 0.9, which compared to previous researches, Vitex pseudo-negundo habitats in Darab city had a higher percentage of essential oil in some places such as Fasaroud (Korsia). According to the different compounds identified in the essential oil of Vitex pseudo-negundo, it was found that monoterpenes were the main group of constituents of the essential oil, followed by hydrocarbon sesquiterpenes, which was consistent with previous research. has it. The highest compounds identified in Vitex pseudo-negundo plant in different habitats of the city, respectively, include alphapinene (50.40%), limonene (14.98%), e-caryophyllene (8.55%), sabinene ( 3.54 percent) and Mirsen (2.44 percent). According to the present research, the essential oil of this plant can be considered by pharmaceutical companies as a natural source rich in alpha-pinene chemical composition. Extraction of the alpha-pinene compound from the essential oil of of Vitex pseudo-negundo plant can be profitable and earn high currency for the activists of this field inside and prevent foreign exchange from leaving the country. Considering the tolerance of this shrub to the ecological conditions of semi-desert lands and the beauty of the landscape, more attention can be paid to the medicinal value of the plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research aims to investigate the effect of low irrigation and foliar application of nano nitrogen fertilizer on quantitative (height, biological and seed yield, thousand seed weight and harvest index) and qualitative (essential oil percentage and yield) traits of black cumin seeds in 2018 in a split plot arrangment complete blocks. A random experiment with three replications was carried out on the farm of the Payame Noor Milajerd University. Irrigation levels include: Irrigation of all furrows (control), irrigation once in between furrows (fixed watering of only odd furrows) and intermittent irrigation of furrows (irrigation in rounds of one week for odd furrows and the next week for even furrows) as main plots and levels of nitrogen foliar application include: No foliar application of fertilizer (control of foliar application of distilled water), application of 1.5 and 3 liters per hectare of nanofertilizer were considered as sub-plots. The results of the experiment showed that the interaction effect of the treatments on all studied traits was significant at the one percent level, so the highest values of quantitative traits (plant height, biological and seed yield, 1000-seed weight, and harvest index) in normal furrow irrigation treatments (without drought stress) with the application of nitrogen nanofertilizer was obtained. While the highest and lowest percentage and yield of essential oil (qualitative properties) were obtained, respectively, in the furrow irrigation method with 3 liters of nitrogen nanofertilizer and constant irrigation treatment without nitrogen nanofertilizer. Considering the economic importance of essential oil performance in the production of medicinal plants and in water shortage conditions and the need for optimal consumption of inputs (water and fertilizer) in the direction of sustainable agriculture, the use of an intermittent irrigation pattern and foliar spraying of 3 liters of nitrogen nanofertilizer, while saving consumption water and production of the highest yield of essential oil in black cumin in the study area is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of bioactive peptides of sesame meal alone or with a mixture of savory essential oil (Satureja khuzestanica) and thyme (Thymus daenensis) on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, immune and blood parameters in broiler chickens. A total of 250 male broiler chickens was used in a completely randomized design with 5 treatments and 5 repetitions. The treatments included a control diet and a control diet with 0.5 gr/kg antibiotic, 0.5 gr/kg essential oil, 3 gr/kg sesame bio active peptide and a combination of 3 gr/kg sesame bioactive peptide and 0.5 gr/kg essential oil. The results showed that body weight gain in the treatments containing bioactive peptide mixture of sesame and plant essential oil were better than the control. Bioactive peptides increased crude protein digestibility in broilers. The change of the antibody concentration of viral diseases related to Gumboro disease in 42 days for the experimental treatments was significant compared to the control group (p<0.05). The highest and lowest antibody titers against Gumboro disease were observed in treatment 5 of bioactive peptide mixture of sesame and plant essential oil and treatment 2 containing antibiotics, respectively. In relation to blood cholesterol concentration, the lowest concentration was related to treatment 3 containing plant essential oil and the highest concentration was related to the control. In conclusion, the combination of bioactive peptide of sesame and plant essential oil with a positive effect on nutrient digestibility improves growth performance in broiler chickens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]