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Salmonella Typhimurium (S. Typhimurium) causes inflammation and has adverse effects on the growth of broiler chicks. Meanwhile, plant derivations improve the growth performance and decrease inflammation, but they do not have enough stability. Encapsulation of essential oils is a new strategy for decreasing their instability. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation of encapsulated thyme essential oil (ETEO) on growth, inflammatory cytokines, and amino acid profiles of broiler chicks challenged with S. Typhimurium. Three hundred one-d-old broiler chicks were assigned into 6 groups, and 5 replications per group. The broiler chicks (3 groups) were challenged with S. Typhimurium on day 21 and birds received basal diet (positive control), encapsulated thyme (P-ETEO), and non-capsulated thyme (P-NETEO), while other groups received the same diets, but under normal as a negative control, encapsulated thyme (N-ETEO) and non-capsulated thyme (N-NETEO). Growth performance, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and serum amino acid profiles were assessed on day 42. The challenged birds in positive control showed lower growth performance, higher concentration for inflammatory cytokines, and disturbed blood serum concentrations for amino acid profiles compared to the negative control (PS. Typhimurium had negative effects on growth, immunity, and inflammation, but dietary inclusion of the ETEO could decrease its negative effects.

In cut flowers, increasing postharvest flower life is the most important commercial factor in all cultivars. HA is a compound derived from animal and plant decomposition. Due to hormone-like effects of HA, the effects of HA on expression of three senescence dependent genes: CYP, NAC2 and LOX were investigated in Lilium longiflorum Hybrid LA petals during bud development and onset of senescence. The SSC, soluble sugars and MDA along with activity of POD, SOD and CAT were measured at these stages. The results showed that expression of CYP and LOX genes decreased in both stages under induction of HA. The expression of these genes decreased in the senescence stage more severely. The expression of NAC2 gene also increased in treated plants with 4.1-fold. Enzymatic results showed that the effect of HA on stimulation of POD enzyme activity was more than other enzymes so that 95% of POD increased in bud development stage. These findings showed that HA is able to reduce damage of senescence by strengthening the antioxidant system. It can induce metabolic changes or expression of gene in anti-aging pathways.

Arsenic trioxide (As(2)O(3)) poisoning and associated potential lesions are of a global concern. Inversely, riboflavin (vitamin B2) as a component of flavoproteins could play a vital role in the spermatogenic enzymatic reactions. Thus, this research aimed to explore potential beneficial roles of vitamin B2 during As(2)O(3)-injured-toxicity. Rats were randomly allocated into 4 groups (n=8/group) and challenged as follows (for 30 days continuously): Group 1 received normal saline, Group 2 was treated with 3 mg/l As(2)O(3), Group 3 received 40 mg/l vitamin B2, Group 4 received 3 mg/l As(2)O(3) + 40 mg/l vitamin B2. Both As(2)O(3) and vitamin B2 were dissolved in deionized water. Malondialdehyde (MDA), Glutathione Peroxidase (GSH-Px), Superoxide dismutase (SOD), and Catalase (CAT) were assessed for the oxidative profile, while TAS (Total Antioxidative Status) levels were evaluated for the antioxidant system, in both serum and testicular tissue. P

Powdery mildew is a destructive foliar disease of cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) under greenhouse conditions. The most used methods for disease control are repeated application of fungicides and use...

Tamoxifen (TAM, an antiestrogenic drug) induces azoospermia and testicular atrophy. Contrariwise, ellagic acid (EA, a phenol present in vegetables) is a natural antioxidant which may improve evolution of spermatogenesis while having a high biological safety, thus potentially being useful for the treatment of TAM toxicity in reproductive health protection. Hence, this current study aimed to explore the roles of EA on spermatogenesis through autophagy of TAM-induced toxicity. For this, rats were orally administered as follows: TAM [0.6 mg/kg body weight (b.wt.) per day], EA (5 mg/kg b.wt. per day) alone or in combination form for 48 consecutive days. Considering the vehicle group, TAM-injured animals showed significantly lower body weight, food intake, testicular weight and volume, testosterone and LH levels, and testicular cells count (p < 0.05). TAM induced testicular damages and seminiferous tubular atrophy. All these changes were abolished by EA treatments. Meanwhile, TAM upregulated autophagic marker genes including Atg7, LC3, Atg13, Atg14 and Beclin1 expressions. However, p62, the substrate protein of evolutionarily conserved self-digestion process of autophagy, was also upregulated by TAM administration. These results revealed that EA significantly promoted the formation of autophagosomes via downregulation of the autophagic genes; the blockage of autophagosome degradation that might be due to p62 aggregation. Thus, this study provides a novel mechanistic approach with respect to TAM-induced male reproductive toxicity.

Froriepia (Froriepia subpinnata Ledeb. Bail.) is an endangered, indigenous, vegetable, also reported to have medicinal properties. There is insufficient information about yield, nutrient content an...

Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) seed is imported to Iran. A breeding program is needed locally to select elite lines. Factor analysis is a useful tool for investigating variable relationships for com...

Busulfan induces azoospermia and testicular atrophy, while follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and estradiol benzoate (EB) may improve spermatogenesis. Our objective was to determine the effects of FSH and EB on the recovery of spermatogenesis, histology, sexual hormones, and testicular gene expression in the testis of a busulfan-injured rat model. Forty adult rats were assigned into eight groups. Half received a single intraperitoneal saline or 30 mg/kg busulfan injection, and 42 days after, the animals received intramuscular injections for 10 days: 1 ml saline, 7.5 IU FSH, and 12 μg/kg EB or FSH+EB. One day after, blood plasma was obtained for hormone analysis, sperm was recovered from epididymis, and testes were processed for histology and RNA extraction. Busulfan decreased sperm count, motility, and viability; induced seminiferous tubular atrophy; and decreased blood testosterone, FSH, and luteinizing hormone. Hormonal treatments partially recovered spermatogenesis, decreasing tubular atrophy. They also decreased caspase 3 and iNOS expression while increasing Bcl-2 expression, compared with the busulfan treatment. FSH+EB was the most efficient treatment, also increasing the concentration of sexual hormones close to no-busulfan levels. Thus, busulfan has a clear negative effect in spermatogenesis in the rat model, and FSH and EB, especially combined, could help to reverse these effects.

With recent advances in high-throughput sequencing (HTS) technologies to improve plants, there is a need to release orchid specific genomic resources and platforms that are crucial for managing omics elements in systematic manner. Authors provide details about the recent developments in biotechnological techniques, genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics and their applications for the industrial production, propagation, conservation and manipulation of Phalaenopsis orchid. Plant Tissue Cult. & Biotech. 29(1): 133-149, 2019 (June)

Both the animals and humans with generalized lipodystrophy develop signs of infertility syndrome in the absence of semen health. Infertility is defined as not being able to get pregnant (conceive) after one year (or longer) of unprotected sex. The treatment of disease is usually expensive. Their expertise and experience provide the most current knowledge to promote future research. Dietary habits need to be altered, for most of world people. Therefore, the conclusions and recommendations from the part of this chapters will provide a basis for change. We welcome your offers and criticisms for book improvement in next editions. Bisphenol has been used since the 1950s, in food packaging, industrial materials, dental sealants, and personal hygiene products. Everyone is exposed to Bisphenol through the skin, inhalation, and digestive system. Bisphenol disrupts endocrine pathways because it has weak estrogenic, antiandrogenic, and antithyroid activities. Known endocrine disruptor bisphenol A (BPA) has been shown to be a reproductive toxicant in animal models. This book chapter the current epidemiological literature on fertility outcomes associated with Bisphenol exposure. It also provides relevant resources for health care providers who are in a unique position to provide guidance in reducing exposure to this endocrine-disrupting chemical.

Fruit shape index (round shape) and seed size have important effects on pumpkin yield. To investigate these traits and create the most desirable state, a cross was made between two pumpkin cultivars. The objective of this study was to estimate the main gene effects (additive, dominant and di-genic epistasis) and to determine the mode of inheritance for fruit shape and seed size by generation mean analysis. Six generations, namely P1, P2, F1, F2, BC1, and BC2 from a cross between Zucchini and hull-less seed Pumpkin, S10×P25, were constructed and evaluated for fruit length, fruit width, fruit shape index, and some seed-related traits (seed length, seed width, seed thickness). The experiment was conducted in the research field of the Faculty of Agricultural Science, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran in 2019. Results showed a significant difference between generations in terms of fruit and seed traits. Scale and joint scale tests showed the presence of epistasis for some traits. According to the results of the average traits of different generations, standard heterosis and hetrobeltiosis were observed. Concerning the fruit shape index and seed width, there was an over-dominance effect. The broad-sense heritability of the traits was relatively high for all traits and between 52 and 92%. Narrow sense heritability was between 26 and 86% and relatively low for the fruit shape index and seed width. Therefore, selection of elite lines and production of their hybrids are recommended as two methods suitable for breeding to achieve the round shape index and larger seed size.

The genetic variability of Froriepia subpinata Ledeb. Bail., an endangered Iranian endemic species, has been estimated with a total of 52 accessions using 20 markers including ISSR and IRAP. The results showed the polymorphic band produced by primers was 82.3%. The best mean values of genetic diversity parameters observed in ISSRs markers, being UBC873, UBC811, and UBC873 the best primers tested. The similarity range among accessions was 34.45% to 93.3%. The cluster analysis classified the accessions into five main groups that in totally, accessions with similarity in region generally were clustered in the same group. Overall, present study could provide elementary information for formulation of conservation strategies and invaluable elementary genetic information for next breeding or designing conservation programs.

Background: Arsenic trioxide (As2O3) poisoning and associated potential lesions are of global concern. Inversely, riboflavin (vitamin B2, VB2) a component of flavoproteins could play a vital role in the enzymatic reactions. Thus, this research aimed to explore the potential beneficial roles of VB2 during As2O3-injured-toxicity. Methods: Adult male rats were challenged as follows: 3 mg As2O3/L and 40 mg VB2/L alone or in combination administered in drinking water, for 30 consecutive days. Daily basis As2O3 and VB2 dissolved in deionized water for 5 min (gradually and slowly). Malondialdehyde (MDA), Glutathione Peroxidase (GSH), Superoxide dismutase (SOD), and Catalase (CAT) were computed for oxidative stress, and TAS (Total Antioxidative Status) levels were computed for the antioxidant system, for both serum and tissue. Apoptosis levels were assessed in the evaluation of testis gene expression. P

Tomato is an attractive fruiting vegetable crop that can be used as an ornamental plant. Agronomical traits have been subjected to extensive genetic dissection to enhance vegetable breeding programs. By contrast, there are few genetic studies of ornamental traits for the development of ornamental tomato varieties. To investigate genetic loci linked to desired ornamental traits, we performed genetic analyses using an intraspecific mapping population that segregated for fruit color (yellow or red), fruit shape (round or pear), and plant height (high or compact). A genetic map was constructed with 965 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and 33 simple sequence repeat markers. Subsequent linkage analysis using quantitative locus analysis and genome‐wide association study detected four genetic loci for the three selected traits, all of which were located near the reported genes. We performed KASP—kompetitive allele‐specific PCR—to develop SNP markers that were tightly linked to the four loci. Highly accurate genotyping data were obtained from the four SNPs across 187 F2 plants, which enabled us to select two lines with homozygous alleles for compact plant size and yellow pear‐shaped fruits. These newly developed SNP markers and genetic strategies could be used to accelerate breeding programs for ornamental tomato plants.

The causal agent of powdery mildew disease inflicts severe damage on cucurbits in production areas throughout the world. Local lines may exhibit different rates of resistance, and this was examined...

Objective: To evaluate the effects of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and estradiol benzoate (EB) on the recovery of spermatogenesis, histology, sexual hormones levels and testicular gene expression in testes of tamoxifen-injured rats. Methods: Forty adult rats were divided into eight groups in a factorial arrangement of tamoxifen and hormonal treatments. Half of the groups orally received 0.6 mg/kg tamoxifen, and 30 d later tamoxifen and notamoxifen groups (controls) were paired and assigned into four hormonal treatments with daily intramuscular injections for 10 consecutive days: 1 mL saline (control); 7.5 IU FSH; 12 μg/kg EB; and 7.5 IU FSH+12 μg/kg EB. One day after the last treatment, spermatozoa were recovered from epididymis, blood was processed for sex hormones concentration (testosterone, FSH and luteinizing hormone) and testes were processed for histology and RNA extraction for expression of genes related to apoptosis [caspase 3, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2)]. Results: Control groups did not show significant changes in most parameters, but hormonal treatments decreased caspase 3 and iNOS and increased Bcl-2 expression. Tamoxifen significantly decreased counts, motility and viability of spermatozoa, Bcl-2 expression and sex hormones. It increased intertubular space, caspase 3 and iNOS expression, and induced seminiferous tubular atrophy. The hormonal treatments reverted spermatogenesis, hormonal levels and histology compared with controls, however not attaining the same sperm quality as controls. Conclusions: Tamoxifen is clearly detrimental to spermatogenesis and overall testicular structure and function, whereas hormonal therapy with FSH and EB can improve testicular function and revert tamoxifen-induced azoospermia.

Introduction: Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) is one of the most widely cultivated vegetables. Plant length is a quantitative trait is controlled by many genes. These traits are difficult to study due to the complex nature of their inheritance. The combining ability estimation is useful in determining the breeding value of cucumber lines by suggesting the appropriate use in a breeding program. In studying combining ability, the most commonly utilized experimental approach is the diallel design. General combining ability is a measure of additive genetic action; and specific combining ability (SCA) is deviation from additivity. General combining ability is a main effect and SCA is an interaction. The aim is to determine the breeding value of the cross. Heterosis has been utilized to exploit dominance variance through production of hybrids. There are reports on positive and negative heterosis in cucumber however, there are differences between reports. This research was conducted to estimate general and specific combining ability and heterosis in cucumber inbred lines and hybrids to produce hybrids with high yield and quality. Material and Methods: In the spring of 2014, the seven parental lines and their 21 F1 hybrid were planted at the University of Guilan, in loamy sand field. Three replications were arranged in a randomized complete block design. The sandy loam soil was prepared by plowing and disking and formed into raised beds by plowed and harrow prior to plant establishment. Rows were on 1 m centers and plants were about 25 cm apart in the row. Prior to planting 150 kg·ha-1 of nitrogen from urea and 100 kg·ha-1 of phosphorous from triple superphosphate and 80 kg·ha-1 of potassium sulfate was applied. Side dressing with the same amount of nitrogen and phosphorus occurred at 50% flowering stage. Irrigation with 250 m3·ha-1, three times weekly, was begun at plant first flowering. In each replication, 12 individuals of each line or hybrid were spaced 25 cm within a row (plot) on 1 m centers. Data were collected from 12 plants per plot of each accession. Analyses of variance (ANOVA) of data were performed and where appropriate, ANOVA was followed by LSD mean comparison of trait values. For the combining ability analysis (GCA), measurements of plants within each plot were averaged, and means were used as experimental units for analysis by the computer program Diallel. Results and Discussion: Genotypes has significant effect on all measured characteristics. The highest plant length was related to B6 line and the lowest plant length was related to A0×B6 and B12×B6 hybrids. The highest number of lateral branch was related to B10×A11, B12×A0 and Guilan while the lowest number was related to A0, B12×B6, A15×A11. The highest plant length to first fruit was related to A4×A11 hybrids and the lowest plant length to first fruit was related to B10, B12, B10×A15 and B12×A4. The mean square of general combining ability (GCA) were significant only for plant height up to the first fruit but the mean square of specific combining ability revealed significant differences for all traits that indicated the important effects of dominance genes in inheritance of traits. Plant height up to first fruit has further general combining which reflects the non-additive genes action. The highest parent and standard negative heterosis for plant length was related to B12×B6 hybrid. This hybrid also showed the highest negative heterosis for number of lateral branch. The highest high parent negative heterosis for plant length to first fruit was related to A11×A4 hybrid while the highest standard negative heterosis was related to A0×A4 hybrid and the highest positive heterosis for this trait was obtained from B10×B12 and B12×A4 hybrids. Conclusion: Although heterosis is affected a plant length is the primary target for increasing yield in high density cultivation, the biological complexity of this trait makes it difficult to draw meaningful conclusions in order to track individual causal elements involved in heterosis. Cucumber breeders might develop determinate or indeterminate cultivars based on high GCA for certain traits. Cucumber breeders might develop cucumber cultivars with optimal vegetative growth based on high general combining ability for their traits. The results revealed B10 and A4 lines are proposed for hybrid production with optimum vegetative growth. The hybrid obtained by crossing of B12 and B6 are proposed for cultivation with high plant density.

Since cucumber is one of the most economically important horticultural crops, production of hybrid seeds is very important for obtaining a profitable fruit yield. Detecting the best combination of the parents is one of the most important stages in each breeding program. By selecting parents with high heterosis in their progenies, breeders will be able to generate hybrids with high yield. This study was, thus, undertaken to examine heterosis effect on yield, yield components, and some qualitative characteristics in some fresh cucumber fruit hybrids and to select the best cross. Eighteen cucumber hybrids along with a standard national hybrid “Guilan 2” generated by VBG Company and a standard international hybrid 'PS' were planted in the Research Field of Lorestan University, Khoramabad, Iran, during 2013-2014. There were significant differences between genotypes for all measured characteristics. The mean comparison for different traits showed that B10×A4 hybrid had the highest total and marketable fruit yield and B12×A0 hybrid had the greatest early fruit yield. The greatest high parent heterosis, mid-parent heterosis and standard heterosis were belonged to B10×A11 and B10×A4 hybrids, for total fruit yield and marketable fruit yield, respectively. The greatest mid-parent heterosis and high parent heterosis were also related to B12×A0 and B10×A15 hybrids, for early fruit yield and time to first female flower appearance, respectively. Since there were notable differences between studied hybrids in terms of a number of examined traits, they can be used in crossing programs with the aim of releasing suitable hybrid cultivars

Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) is widely cultivated in many parts of the world. Its production is significantly affected by Fusarium root and stem rot, which is caused by the fungus Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. radicis-cucumerinum, a major disease of cucumber in some regions. Most of the management programs for the control of Fusarium root and stem rot are not successful; therefore, growing resistant cultivars may be the best solution. Use of disease-resistant cultivars is a key to environmentally friendly and economically sustainable disease control in modern crop production. To find resistance sources, 10 F1 cucumber hybrids were screened against F. oxysporum f. sp. radicis-cucumerinum. Total phenolic content (PC), soluble peroxidase (POX), and polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activities were evaluated at 0, 4, and 8 days after inoculation. Significant differences were observed between resistant and susceptible genotypes in increase of total PCs and enzymatic activities at fourth day after inoculation. These findings can be used in breeding programs of cucumber aiming at creating F1 cultivars resistant to Fusarium root and stem rot.

Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) yield quantity and quality can be improved. Estimates of combining ability are useful in determining breeding value of cucumber lines by suggesting the appropriate use in breeding to generate new hybrids with high yield and quality. The research was conducted to estimate general and specific combining ability and heterosis in seven inbred lines proposed for cucumber breeding according previous research. The highest early yield specific combining ability (SCA) and general combining ability (GCA) were related to lines B10 and B12 and crosses B12 × A0 and B10 × A4. Lines A11 and B12 had the highest positive and negative cull yield GCA and the crosses A0 × B10 and A0 × B12 had the highest negative cull yield SCA. Lines B10, A4, and B12 and crosses B12 × A0, B10 × A11, and B10 × A4 had the highest positive marketable yield GCA and SCA. Lines B10 and A4 and crosses B12 × A0, B10 × A11, and B10 × A4 had the highest positive total yield GCA and SCA. Lines B10, B12, and A11 an...

Previous research indicated that the pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata L.) interspecific hybrid ‘MO11 × P25’ had the most positive and negative heterosis for plant yield and plant length, respectively. Due to its negative heterosis for plant length it is possible to culture this plant at a higher plant density. Growers have two options when increasing plant populations per unit area; either within-row or between-row spacing can be decreased. The objective of this research was to determine the effect of altering plant population by varying between-row and in-row spacing on yield of pumpkin interspecific hybrid ‘MO11 × P25’ to increase yield by reducing vegetative growth and increasing reproductive. The interspecific hybrid ‘MO11 × P25’ was established at 1, 2, or 3 m between rows and 0.5, 0.75, or 1 m within rows. There were differences between inter- and between-row distances and their interaction on all characteristics except carotenoids content. Increasing interspecific hybrid ‘MO11 × P25’ plant popul...

Objective: This study was conducted to investigate the trace mineral concentrations (Mg, Se, Zn, Cu and Fe) in amniotic fluid (AF) in 40 pregnancy toxemia Ghezel ewes at the time of parturition phase and its association with placental traits. Methods: Animals were treated with controlled internal drug release for 14 d and injected 400 IU pregnant mare serum gonadotropin at the time of controlled internal drug release removal. After the detection of estrus by use of teaser rams, ewes were hand-mated. Ewes were classified as having subclinical pregnancy toxemia on the basis of beta-hydroxy butyrate (BHBA) results (BHBA > 0.86 mmol/L). Results: The overall mean AF traces of mineral concentrations were 3.13 ng/mL, 22.1 μg/dL, 134.7 μg/dL, 122.5 μg/dL and 166.6 μg/dL, respectively. There was a significant positive correlation between placental efficiency and Zn concentration in AF ewes (r = 0.633, P 0.01), except for placental weight (r = 0.808, P

This study was conducted to compare the effects of thermal stress on growth performance and some immunity variables of broiler chickens. Birds were randomly assigned to one of three thermal treatments as follows: cold stress (CS, 12±1 ° C), (b) heat stress (HS, 33±3 ° C) and (c) thermoneutral (TN, 24±2 ° C). Body weight gain (BWG), feed intake (FI), water intake (WI) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were recorded. In order to evaluate the primary and secondary humoral immune responses, two birds per replicate were intravenously administrated with a suspension of 7% sheep red blood cell (SRBC) at 28 and 35 days. The heat-stressed broiler chickens had lower FI (-14.90%), BWG (-25.71%) and higher FCR (+13.06%) in comparison to broiler chickens reared under TN condition ( p

Understanding the method of inheritance is valuable for breeding watermelon (Citrullus lanatus L.) cultivars with desired seed size. Local open-pollinated landrace were used to investigate inheritance of watermelon seed size. Seed length in 1000 seed was measured. Seed > 20 mm were used. Seed length of 1000 seed of the next generation was measured. Improvement of seed length in response to selection was used to calculate narrow-sense heritability. Mean seed length of landrace was 19.0 mm. Seed used to produce the next generation had a mean length of 20.46 mm. The next generation had a mean seed length of 17.6 mm, a decrease of 14%. Both selection differential and absolute magnitude response to selection was 1.4. Diversity between large seeds is not genetic but likely due to environment. Selection is not recommended for seed size improvement and hybridization may be more suitable for this goal.

In order to gain a better understanding of their performance and immunity system of laying hens, the present study was carried out to determine the effects of different levels aqueous extract of Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) on production performance and immune response of laying hens. A total number of 240 white Lohman LSL-Lite laying hens at 65 weeks of age were used in this experiment. Four levels of Fenugreek extract including zero (T1), 5 ml (T2), 10 ml (T3) and 15 ml (T4) per liter of drinking water with 6 replicates (n=10) were used during 6-week trial period. The hens performance including hen-day egg production %, feed intake, egg mass (g/hen/day), and feed conversion ratio (g feed: g egg) were measured. Antibody production against sheep red blood cells also was measured. The GLM procedure of SAS software was used for data analysis and differences among treatment means determined using the Duncan's multiplerange test. The findings of this study demonstrated that the inclusion o...

Organic waste can be managed and recycled as an alternative to other methods of disposal for cultivation of oyster mushroom (Pleurotus florida L). Oyster mushroom was grown on rice (Oriza sativa L.) straw alone (100:0), rice straw + peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) shell (75:25, 50:50, and 25:75 w/w), and peanut shell alone (0:100). Responses to cultivation in boxes or bags were determined. Total nitrogen, protein, potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, and dry matter were measured. Mixing rice straw with peanut shell (75:25 w/w) increased antioxidant capacity, magnesium, and flavonoid contents of fruit bodies. The highest potassium, phosphorous, and calcium contents were from fruiting bodies developed from spawn grown on peanut shells alone. Peanut shells alone are not sufficient for use as a substrate and should be mixed with rice straw for adequate production of oyster mushroom when boxes are used for cultivation.

Aloe vera (L.) Burm.f. is highly appreciated due to its short growth period and high economic value among all Aloe species, and is used in pharmaceuticals, folk medicine, healthcare, cosmetic products and food products. Hydroponic systems have the potential to improve the cropping management and to achieve higher produce quality standards in leafy vegetables. However, the identification of optimal soilless practices such as nutrient solution preparation is critical in order to increase yield and quality. This study was conducted to evaluate the growth of A.vera in four nutrient solutions containing different NH4+:NO3− ratios and potassium concentrations. Interaction between nutrient solutions and sampling times affected all measured characteristics. The highest nitrogen A. concentration showed the best results at all sampling times. Thus for A. vera plants, NO3 − supply combined with low quantities of NH4+ favours growth.

In present study, C18 (determinate) and C19 (indeterminate) cucumber lines were crossed and the hybrid plants were self-pollinated to produce the F2:3 generation. Thirteen ISSR (Inter Simple Sequence Repeat) primers, two retrotransposons and two IRAP (Inter-Retrotransposon Amplified Polymorphism) combination primers were screened for QTLs (Quantitative Trait Loci) controlling plant height in cucumber. Five QTLs using SIM (Single Interval Mapping) were identified but only two major of them were observed using CIM (Composite Interval Mapping) method for plant height in F2:3 generation. The distance of one of the identified QTLs to nearest marker was very low and 0.01 CentiMurgan (cM), which showed a high linked marker to this QTL.

Shiitake is an edible mushroom native to East Asia. In the present research, the soaking water was targeted as the vehicle to enrich the substrate. The amount of nutrients in the substrate is severely reduced by mycelium growth and development during spawn running and browning period. Some part of this reduction can be compensated by soaking the substrate in the enriched soaking water. In this study, soaking water was enriched by some complement materials and enrichment effects on some important properties of shiitake mushroom were evaluated. The highest biological efficiency (69.88 %) was gained with soaking the blocks in wheat bran extraction suspension. The highest dry matter of mushroom was obtained by rice bran extraction suspension as the enriched soaking water. The results of this research showed that some important properties of shiitake mushroom can be improved by soaking the blocks with enriched soaking water. According to the results, wheat bran extraction suspension was the best enriched solution to increase productivity of shiitake mushrooms and rice bran extraction suspension was suitable to improve quality of mushrooms.

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) is an annual herb used as organic (green) manure and has medicinal applications. Organic fertilizers are used in sustainable agriculture of vegetables. Sources of organic manure and their effects on growth and yield characteristics of plants need to be determined. Effects of vermicompost and vermiwash were determined on qualitative and quantitative factors of chemical content, development and yield of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-gaecum L.) from May to July 2012 at Agriculture College of University Guilan. A completely randomized block design with 3 replications was used. Treatments included 7 t/ha of cow manure, vermicompost, vermiwash (obtained from 7 t/ha vermicompost); 7 t/ha of leachate vermicompost + vermiwash and a control (no fertilization). Use of organic fertilizers beneficially affected plant height, pod length, pod fresh and dry mass, 1000-seed mass, plant fresh and dry mass, internode length and percents of leaves protein and nitrogen. Use of organic fertilizers may increase yield and yield components of fenugreek and its yield efficiency.

Background The utilization of organic fertilizer is an effective method in organic culture of medicinal plants because of its beneficial effects on soil structure, reduction of environmental problem and improvement in plant growth. The experiments were conducted in a research field at the University of Guilan at the Rasht and Torbat-e-Jam Razavi Khorasan Province, Iran. The experiment was conducted to determine the effects of 7 Mt ha−1 of cow manure vermicompost, vermiwash prepared from 7 Mt ha−1 of vermicompost, leachate vermicompost + vermiwash, 50 Mt ha−1 municipal solid waste compost (MSWC), chemical fertilizer (50, 0, 300 NPK) and no fertilization as a control on peppermint yield and quality.

ObjectiveTo determine the values of amniotic fluid (AF) progesterone and biochemical constituents and its associated placenta traits in Iranian crossbred ewes (Arkhar-Merino×Ghezel).MethodsSixty ewes (2-5 years old, weighing 40-50 kg) were treated with controlled internal drug release induced 30 mg progesterone for 14 d and were injected with 400 IU pregnant mare serum gonadotropin at the time of CIDR withdrawal. After the detection of estrus, ewes were hand-mated. After expelling of each fetus accompanied by fetal membranes, 10 mL AF was taken from fetal sac for spectrophotometer methods (glucose, urea, creatinine, total protein, cholesterol, triglycerides, calcium and phosphorus) and radioimmunoassay (progesterone) analysis.ResultsResults indicated that there were highly positive correlations between placental efficiency and cotyledon density (r=0.764, P0.01), except for PW (r=0.665).ConclusionsIn conclusion, the significant correlation between the AF biochemical and progesterone with placental traits for the above-mentioned metabolites suggests that metabolic changes in AF levels will reflect the condition in the AF.

Pollination, and the proper selection of pollen source, can affect biochemical characteristics of pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo L.). Seed and pulp of pumpkin contain antioxidants that change during boiling and stir frying. A study was conducted to investigate the effects of pollination source and cooking method on antioxidant capacity of pumpkin pulp and seed. Lines 1289, 1301, and 1307 were used as the pollinizer, and 1307 and 1289 were used as female parents. Antioxidant capacity was affected by cooking; pollen source had no effect on antioxidant capacity of seed and fruit in both female parents. Cooking reduced antioxidant capacity of pumpkin seed and pulp. It is necessary to determine how different cooking temperatures and methods affect antioxidant capacity in pumpkin tissue.

This study investigated the relationship of morphological and molecular genetic distance with hybrid performance and heterosis in cucumber in an attempt to make use of genetic distance in predicting hybrid performance. The results of this study showed that GD, in general, correlated poorly with heterosis and SCA. Results showed that the mean values of the hybrids were significantly larger or smaller for many traits when compared with the mean of parental lines, indicating that heterosis was present for these traits. In next step we compare inter group hybrids versus intra group hybrids. This test showed that intra group hybridization although increased the yield and yield component but decrease some fruit quality such as fruit color and shape.

If appropriate amounts of fertilizers are not applied during production, physiological symptoms of deficiency can occur in garlic (Allium sativum L.). Most producers use synthetic fertilizers because they are easy to transport, quickly available to plants, and produce high yields. However, nitrate levels in the soil should be kept to a level where leaching is not a problem. Split nitrogen (N) fertilizer applications can play a role in a nutrient management strategy that is productive, profitable, and environmentally responsible. This project was undertaken to determine effects of amount of, and split application of, nitrogen on growth and yield of garlic. Levels of urea (CO (NH4)3) and KNO3 (100, 150, or 200 Mt·ha−1) fertilizers were applied at planting or as a split application at planting time and corm formation. There were no differences due to treatment. It is likely that the lowest amount of fertilizer can be used for garlic production.

Iran has an arid to semiarid climate with precipitation occurring in the rainy seasons. Producers often use tensiometers for irrigation scheduling because they provide direct measurement of soil moisture status and are easily managed. Electrical resistivity is an effective predictor of various soil hydraulic properties, including water content, degree of saturation, and hydraulic conductivity. An irrigation scheduling system was developed based on soil electrical resistivity. The system consists of a sensor to monitor soil electrical resistivity. Sensors were made from two galvanized sheets buried at 5, 10, 15, and 20 cm in soil. The sensors were in series with a multimeter (20 kohm). The equipment was controlled by a custom-written computer program that requires setting a high tension set point (when irrigation is turned on) and a low tension set point. Sensors at the different depths provided an understanding of how electrical resistivity changes in response to irrigation. Immediately following irrigation the electrical valve automatically closed when the wetting front in the soil passed the sensor, resulting in a value near 100 (maximum resistivity that can be recorded with the system), indicating that the soil was saturated. When the sensor record 100 the common tensiometer reading was 0, indicating a negative correlation between the systems. Moisture changes more rapidly near the soil surface than at lower depths. Irrigation of vegetables can be controlled by measuring soil resistivity and calibrating the system for each crop.

The present study aimed to estimate the effects of different drying methods on appropriate drying time, essential oil yield, total phenol content and antioxidant capacity of Anethum graveolens L. and Mentha piperita L. Factorial experiment was conducted in completely randomized design at research field and laboratory of agricultural campus of the University of Guilan during 2011-2012. Treatments were: two levels of plant type (peppermint and dill) and four levels of drying methods (oven drying at 60°C and 75°C, drying at natural shade and drying exposed to sunlight). Results indicated that different drying methods had significant effect on all observed characteristics. In this experiment increasing oven temperature lead to reduction of essential oil yield. Minimum and maximum essential oil were obtained when dill and peppermint were oven dried at 75°C (20.11 ml m-2) and dried in shading (28.44 ml m-2), respectively. Oven drying at 75°C reduced antioxidant capacity of dill while shade-drying increased antioxidant capacity of peppermint. However drying at 60°C may be an appropriate temperature for drying peppermint and dill plant material, due to a significant reduction of drying time with no adverse effects on the essential oil yields.

Vermicompost has beneficial effects on plant growth. However, vermicompost increases electrical conductivity in soil due to increased salinity associated with continued usage. An experiment was conducted to determine effects of 0 and 7 Mt·ha−1 of cow manure vermicompost, 7 Mt·ha−1 of vermicompost leachate, or vermicompost leachate with vermiwash and a no-fertilization control on French dwarf bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) yield and development. Type of vermi-fertilizer affected all measured characteristics except individual pod fresh and dry weights. Plants treated with vermiwash had the tallest plants, longest pods, number of pods per plant, number of lateral branches, and number of pods, but the highest plant dry weight and longest internodes were from plants treated with vermicompost leachate. Vermiwash combined with vermicompost leachate negatively affected vegetative characteristics and yield. With leaching, the negative effects of vermicompost related to high electrical conductivity decreased and cont...

Pinching is done to affect canopy structure and is normally accomplished by removing the branch growing tip. Faba bean (Vicia faba L.) plays a role in biological fixation of aerial nitrogen, can be used to restore fertility in crop rotations, and is capable of satisfying its nitrogen requirements largely from the atmosphere. Its susceptibility to environmental conditions and biotic stress and instability of yield make it less attractive, and little is known about factors affecting growth and development. The experiment was conducted in a field from December 2010 to May 2011 to determine the effects of pinching on plant development and yield. Treatments were zero, one, two, and three pinchings. The first pinching was when plants had four true leaves. Second and third pinchings were when all lateral and sublateral branches had at least four leaves. At harvest, total seed and pod yield, number of pods per plant, pod weight, and number of lateral branches per plant were determined. Number of pods and shoots p...

Organic fertilizers have beneficial effects on plants growth and quality. However, vermicompost increases electrical conductivity in soil due to increased salinity associated with continued usage. The experiment was conducted in a research field at the University of Guilan to determine effects of 7 Mt ha-1 of cow manure vermicompost, vermiwash prepared from 7 Mt ha-1 of vermicompost, leachate vermicompost + vermiwash, 50 Mt ha-1 municipal solid waste compost (MSWC), chemical fertilizer (NPK 50-0-300) and no fertilization as a control on peppermint yield and quality. Fertilizer type affected all measured characteristics except number of nodes, stem fresh weight, total phenols and antioxidant capacity. Plants treated with vermicompost, vermiwash or leachate vermicompost + vermiwash were the tallest and had the highest levels of chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll and carotenoids. Plants treated with vermicompost or vermiwash had the highest total plant fresh weight, leaf fresh weight and total fresh yield. The leachate vermicompost, vermiwash and vermicompost can be used as organic fertilizers for sustainable peppermint cultivation.

Hydroponics is a common culture method for production of herbs. It is necessary to determine optimal ranges of elements in nutrient solutions. Four nutrient solutions, with different total nitrogen concentrations and ammonium-to-nitrate ratios were used to determine effects on yield and quality of basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) and cress (Lepidium sativum L.). Increasing ammonium benefited cress but not basil. Increasing nitrate positively affected basil. Cress and basil do not appear to need high levels of nutrients for production using hydroponics.

Conventional agriculture can lead to loss of organic matter. Organic agriculture employs closed cycles of energy and materials, maximizes reuse, employs rotation systems, and uses nutrients of organic origin. The use of municipal solid waste compost and spent mushroom compost as additions to soils is increasing. A study that was carried out in spring 2009 with 0, 100, 200, and 300 Mt·ha−1 of municipal solid waste compost, spent mushroom compost, and cow manure applied to soil in which French dwarf bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) was planted. Organic fertilizer type affected total yield, number of pods per plant, pod dry matter, pod weight, number of branches, and leaf ash percentage. Municipal solid waste compost and spent mushroom compost increased total yield over the control and can be used as a substitute for cow manure in French dwarf bean production.