This study evaluated the effects of fish gelatin (FG) and chitosan (Ct) based nanoemulsion enriched with moringa (Moringa oleifera) oil (MO) and sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) oil (HrO) on the quality preservation of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) fillets during cold storage (4 +/- 1 degrees C). The prepared nanoemulsion exhibited high physicochemical stability, as evidenced by its low pH (3.61 +/- 0.02), high conductivity (218 +/- 1.00 mu S & centerdot;cm(-1)), moderate viscosity (216 +/- 3.61 mPa & centerdot;s), small droplet size (225.24 +/- 1.10 nm), negative zeta potential (-8.25 +/- 0.18 mV) and low polydispersity index (0.18 +/- 0.02). Throughout the storage period, increases in pH and the accumulation of total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB-N) were significantly slower in the nanoemulsion-coated group compared with the control group. Moreover, the water-holding capacity was maintained at 88.64% at the end of day 12, which was significantly higher than that of the control group (86.88%) (P<0.05). Overall, these findings demonstrate that this approach represents a promising and innovative preservation strategy for extending shelf life and maintaining the quality of fish products in the seafood industry.
The town of Aral & imath;k in I & gbreve;d & imath;r Province is recognized as T & uuml;rkiye's second most wind erosionprone area. Sand and dust storms originated from this region may exert considerable health impacts and environmental degradation in the affected areas. This study aimed to evaluate potential environmental quality and human health impacts of windblown soils in the Mount Ararat region. Five soil profiles were excavated, described, and sampled within a 12-hectare representative area. The profile descriptions showed that soil formation in the study area has been influenced by past volcanic activities, low water availability, high evapotranspiration, fluvial processes, and severe wind erosion. Soil texture ranged from sand to sandy loam. The soils were very low in organic matter and CaCO3 content, ranging from 0.05 to 0.58% for soil OM and from 0.35 to 1.42% for CaCO3 content. Soil pH was extremely high, ranging from 8.98 to 10.03. The soils were highly sodic, as indicated by high ESP, ranging from 27.9 to 53.9 with a mean of 56.6. High concentrations of total Fe and Al were detected across all the soil profiles. The results suggest that the studied soils may present considerable health risks to both local populations and the environment, particularly in areas impacted by windstorms and air pollution. Ephedra distachya (syn. E. vulgaris) (locally called Ebucehil Bush), which is endemic to the region, plays a crucial role in protection of study soils. The study highlights the pressing necessity for thorough risk assessments and the adoption of sustainable land management strategies to reduce these environmental and public health threats.
The process of growth from seed to grafting takes a long time in traditional seedling production in pecan. In addition, pecan orchards are currently established with bare roots, which reduces the planting interval while establishing an orchard. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of microbial fertilizers (Vitormone and Megaflu), mycorrhiza (truffle) alone or in combination with two different pot types (standard and air pruned) on the development of seedlings in pecan cultivar 'Wichita'. A mixture of peat, perlite and vermiculite was used as a substrate. After the transfer of the seedlings to the pot, microbial fertilizers and mycorrhiza were applied once a week through a drip irrigation system for 5 weeks. Stem diameter, stem length, number of leaves, plant internode distance, fresh and dry weights of above and below ground parts were measured during the seedling growing stage. The results showed that the use of Vitormone + truffle combination significantly enhanced growth, producing the highest stem diameter (5.46 mm), stem length (37.16 cm), internode distance (2.41 cm), and leaf number (15.57), compared to the control (4.43 mm, 22.75 cm, 1.80 cm, and 12.54, respectively. Plants grown in standard pots exhibited greater stem diameter (4.90 mm), longer stem length (28.51 cm), and higher root dry weight (3.71 g) compared to those grown in air-pruned pots (4.71 mm, 26.67 cm, and 2.89 g, respectively) At the end of the experiment, the combination of Vitormone with mycorrhiza at a rate of 10% in standard pots was recommended for pecan seedling production.
Fig is a traditional fruit grown in the Mediterranean climate and has high economic value. In recent years, greater temperature variability, irregular precipitation patterns, and rising drought risk have negatively affected fig cultivation and the need for studies to understand the relationship between fig phenological development stages and climatic factors is increasing. In this research, the general phenological conditions of figs were evaluated based on observations and micro-climatic data between 2018-2023. Also shoot development stages were evaluated between 2015-2023 in three Sarılop fig orchards located at different altitudes in Aydın and İzmir provinces, two important fig production centers of the Aegean Region. Phenological stages were adapted using the BBCH (Biologische Bundesanstalt, Bundessortenamt und CHemische Industrie) scale developed by the International Phenology Monitoring Program, which systematically classifies the growth stages of plants. All developmental stages from bud swelling to dormancy period were coded and the start and end dates for each phenophase were determined. In addition, the effects of temperature accumulation (degree/day) and altitude on phenophases with high climatic sensitivity, such as shoot development, were investigated. The findings revealed that the effective total temperature required for the fig plant to sustain its annual vegetative and generative development generally ranges between 20640C and 21970C, and that locations within this range are more suitable for economically viable cultivation. As a result, it was revealed that the BBCH scale can be used in phenological modeling and agro-climatic risk analyses in addition to its applicability for figs. This research offers significant contributions to early warning systems and agricultural planning.
A considerable amount of pruning residues are generated annually following pruning activities in fruit-growing regions. The proper management of these residues plays a crucial role in maintaining both the sustainability and productivity of fruit production systems. Given the diversity of pruning residues in terms of material characteristics and utilization potential, it is essential to propose suitable strategies based on regional and economic conditions. Among the key challenges in this regard is determining the most efficient methods for utilizing pruning residues. Shredding, which ensures the conversion of residues into desired particle sizes and shapes at minimal cost, is one of the most critical stages of these utilization methods. This study investigates the optimal operational parameters for the shredding process, addressing practical considerations for both agricultural machinery operators and vineyard growers. To achieve this, vineyard pruning residues with three different moisture content levels were shredded using two blade types at three distinct rotor speeds. Experimental results revealed that at a rotor speed of 1800 rpm (S3) and a moisture content of 25% (M3), the energy consumption was 6.19 kWh t⁻¹, the machine capacity was 1.47 t h⁻¹, and the cost per unit dry mass was USD 9.2 t⁻¹ for the B2 blade type. Analysis of variance indicated that variations in rotor speed and material moisture content significantly affected specific energy requirements, machine capacity, and particle size, whereas the influence of blade type on these parameters was not statistically significant (P
Jojoba (Simmondsia chinensis) is an economically important species for arid and semi-arid regions, owing to its exceptional drought tolerance and the high commercial value of its seed oil. However, its dioecious reproductive system poses a major limitation for orchard establishment, as sex can only be distinguished after flowering. This process typically requires 3 to 5 years, after planting. In this study, molecular markers were employed to enable early sex identification and to assess the genetic diversity of jojoba genotypes. A total of 35 seed-derived genotypes from Antalya, Türkiye, were evaluated. Among three CAPS markers tested, the J900 primer provided clear and consistent polymorphisms, producing male-specific and female-specific fragments, with complete concordance with morphological observations. Sex determination revealed that 71% of the genotypes were female and 29% were male. For genetic diversity, 30 SSR primers were screened, of which six were polymorphic, generating 17 alleles with an average polymorphism rate of 70.6% and a mean PIC value of 0.72. Cluster analyses (UPGMA, NJ, and PCO) distinguished male and female genotypes and highlighted the genetic variability present within the population. These results demonstrate that the J900 CAPS marker is a reliable and efficient tool for sex determination at the juvenile stage, while SSR markers provide valuable insights into genetic structure. Collectively, the findings contribute to the development of improved breeding strategies and the establishment of high-yielding jojoba orchards.
This study presents the development of a novel Python-based pipeline for the identification of optimal single-guide RNA (sgRNA) target sites in CRISPR-Cas9 gene knockout applications. The pipeline offers a comprehensive analysis framework for targeting the Myostatin gene in Gallus gallus, assessing both the efficiency and specificity of potential sgRNA sites. By integrating state-of-the-art bioinformatics tools and databases during the design phase, the pipeline has been rigorously tested across various genetic models, demonstrating superior performance relative to existing software. Notably, our pipeline predicted a maximum efficiency of 100% in targeting the Myostatin gene, outperforming the CHOPCHOP and E-CRISP tools by identifying novel, high-potential target sites. Additionally, the pipeline’s user-friendly interface and interactive visualization capabilities enhance its accessibility, making it an invaluable resource for researchers and biotechnological applications in CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing. This work aims to advance gene editing precision, streamline workflows, and establish a new benchmark for genetic engineering technologies.
This study investigates the effects of heat-treated organic fertilizers (sheep-goat manure-SGM, cattle manure-CM, poultry manure-PM, and vermicompost-VC) on the microbiological properties of sandy-calcareous soil during melon (Cucumis melo L.) and watermelon (Citrullus lanatus Thunb.) growing. The fertilizers were compared based on their effects on key soil microbial activity parameters. Based on the results obtained from statistical analysis, the effects of the applied fertilizers on soil microbiological properties were evaluated. According to these results, an increase in soil urease activity (melon: PM, watermelon: CM), alkaline phosphatase activity (melon: VC), β-glucosidase activity (melon: VC), dehydrogenase activity (melon: CM), and arylsulfatase activity (melon: PM, watermelon: PM) was observed. The microbiological properties of the soil cultivated with melon and watermelon were compared, and it was seen that urease activity in the soils with watermelon cultivation was 40% higher and dehydrogenase activity was 46% higher. On the other hand, arylsulfatase activity in the melon soil was determined to be 17% higher than that in the watermelon soil. Overall, heat-treated vermicompost and poultry manure appeared most effective in improving soil microbiological properties.
Türkiye ranks first globally in both the cultivated area and production of apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.), which is also a major export commodity for the country. The province of Isparta is among the important apricot-producing regions, contributing approximately 4.5% to the national production according to TÜİK data for 2023. In this study, the polyphagous pest Perotis lugubris Fabricius, 1777 (Coleoptera: Buprestidae) was recorded for the first time in Isparta and identified as a potential threat to apricot orchards in the region. Morphological identification was performed on specimens collected from apricot trees in Isparta. Adults were characterized by a metallic sheen and elongated oval bodies, causing damage by boring galleries into tree trunks and branches. Such damage negatively affects tree health and can lead to significant economic losses. This study presents the first record of P. lugubris in Isparta and outlines possible strategies within the framework of integrated pest management.
Tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) infection significantly reduces plant vigor, fruit size, and quality, and in the long term affects international seed trade. Several genes have been reported to restrict the systemic spread of ToBRFV in tomato, thereby conferring partial tolerance. We hypothesized that the SmRR gene, an incomplete dominant resistant gene against Stemphylium sp. in tomato, may also contribute to tolerance against ToBRFV infection. To test this, tomato varieties containing the SmRR or Smrr genes were mechanically inoculated with ToBRFV. Symptom severity on leaves was recorded at one, two, and three weeks post-inoculation using a standardized disease rating scale, and viral presence was confirmed by RT-PCR. Results showed that the Smrr (susceptible) variety exhibited the highest disease severity (maximum score= 3), while the SmRR variety had a lower average severity score (1.5) and no visible fruit symptoms, indicating tolerance. Future studies should employ functional assays, such as gene knockdown or overexpression, to validate the role of SmRR in ToBRFV tolerance.
This study aims to develop an IoT-based early warning system to mitigate and monitor the negative effects of methane gas emissions from the agricultural sector on animal health, the environment, and productivity. A portable system was designed to enable wireless communication via a NodeMCU-ESP8266 microcontroller using an MQ-4 methane gas sensor and a DHT11 humidity and temperature sensor. Laboratory and field tests have confirmed that the system reliably detects low-concentration methane levels and can send instant alerts via the Telegram application when the threshold of 400 ppm is exceeded. Given the particular sensitivity of newborn calves to the harmful effects of methane gas, the early warning mechanism provided by this system is of critical importance for protecting animal health and preventing losses. This system offers the potential to increase environmental sustainability, improve animal welfare, and minimize productivity losses in the livestock industry. It is suggested that the system can be expanded to detect different gases in the future and that its performance in long-term field applications should be evaluated more comprehensively.
This study evaluates the economic and environmental advantages of integrating renewable energy systems into livestock farms in Karaman province,T & uuml;rkiye. A hybrid model combining biogas and photovoltaic (PV) systems was developed and simulated for a representative cattle farm. Biogas production potential was calculated based on local livestock waste data, and a rooftop PV installation was modeled using region-specific solar radiation values. The results demonstrate that such a hybrid system can produce both electrical and thermal energy sufficient to meet on-farm demands, while significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Economic analysis reveals a feasible payback period, and sensitivity tests show resilience against energy price fluctuations. This study is one of the first to model an integrated PV and biogas hybrid energy system at the provincial level in T & uuml;rkiye, demonstrating its economic and environmental viability.
The confused flour beetle (Tribolium confusum Jacquelin du Val; Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) is one of the most common pests of stored food products worldwide. Synthetic insecticides are commonly used to control this pest; however, their long-term application poses health risks and environmental concerns. The aim of this study was to evaluate the repellent activity of essential oils (EOs) from Lavandula angustifolia Miller and Origanum vulgare L. (Lamiaceae) against T. confusum. In this study, EOs from L. angustifolia and O. vulgare were extracted by hydrodistillation and analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The repellent activity of the oils against T. confusum adults was evaluated using a two-choice bioassay. The data were statistically analyzed using one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey's HSD test (P<0.05). The EO of O. vulgare was rich in carvacrol (96.7%), with minor components including thymene (2.01%), thymol (0.72%), and endo-borneol (0.53%). In contrast, L. angustifolia EO contained linalyl acetate (24.02%), linalool (15.79%), (+)-2-bornanone (10.74%), and eucalyptol (8.34%). Repellency was significantly higher in O. vulgare EO compared to L. angustifolia EO. Repellency was tested at concentrations of 1%, 2%, 4%, and 8% using a two-choice filter paper assay. The repellent activity of both oils increased significantly with concentration (P<0.05). O. vulgare EO showed the highest repellency, reaching 70% at 8% concentration after 1 hour of exposure. In contrast, L. angustifolia EO achieved a maximum repellency of 52% at the same concentration. At lower concentrations (1-2%), both oils showed limited efficacy. The results demonstrate that O. vulgare EO has promising repellent activity and could be considered a potential botanical insecticide for integrated pest management (IPM) of T. confusum.
Sweet corn (Zea mays (L.) var. saccharata) is a cereal grown in almost every region of the world and is widely cultivated for human consumption. Moreover, it serves as both a raw and processed ingredient in the global food industry. Its breeding programs optimize yields and many agro-morphological traits through the development of hybrids, which contributes to its worldwide popularity. This study aimed to assess some agro-morphological parameters of 13 commercial sweet corn hybrids during two years under greenhouse conditions. These parameters included plant height (PH), stem diameter (SD), first ear height (FEH), leaf width (LW), number of nodes (NN), number of ears (NE), number of leaves (NL) and tassel initiation day (TI). The two-year average results showed that PH and FEH had a mean of 167.96 and 61.48 cm, ranging from 133.12 to 205.5 and 77 to 31.83 cm, respectively. For SD, the average was 21.28 mm with the highest value recorded by Khan (28.75 mm), followed by Driver (24.62 mm). The earliest TI was observed by Khan (52), succeeded by Challenger, Fragman and SF 2070 with same value of 55 days. In addition, there was a significant variation (at least P <= 0.05) for all traits across the two years. The highest values were observed in SF 2070 for LW, Messenger for NN, 10514 for NE and Febris for NL. Based on the findings of this study, different sweet corn hybrids may be recommended for both breeding programs and cultivation, depending on their specific agro-morphological traits.
Sheep breeding plays a crucial role in meeting the increasing demand for high-quality meat, milk, and wool. Traditional selection methods based on phenotypic traits have led to genetic improvement; however, progress remains slow for traits with low to moderate heritability. Marker-assisted selection (MAS) has emerged as a promising complementary approach, enabling faster genetic gains. Among candidate genes studied for MAS, the calpastatin (CAST) gene is notable for its association with meat yield and quality. This study aimed to identify CAST/MspI gene polymorphisms in four sheep breeds reared in T & uuml;rkiye (Central Anatolian Merino-CAM, P & imath;rlak-PRL, Romanov-RMV, and Suffolk-SFK) and assess their potential use in MAS. A total of 176 individuals were genotyped using the PCR-RFLP method. All breeds in this study were found to be polymorphic for the CAST gene. The frequency of the M allele ranged from 0.67 in CAM to 0.76 in SFK. Genotype frequencies for MM ranged from 0.40 (CAM) to 0.71 (SFK), for MN from 0.10 (RMV and SFK) to 0.54 (CAM), and for NN from 0.06 (CAM) to 0.20 (RMV). Significant deviations from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium were observed in CAM, RMV, and SFK populations, but not in PRL. Observed heterozygosity ranged from 0.10 to 0.54 and expected heterozygosity from 0.37 to 0.44. The presence of all three genotypes and substantial genetic variation suggests that the CAST gene may be a valuable marker in MAS for these breeds. However, further association studies are required to confirm the relationship between CAST genotypes and economically significant traits related to meat production.
There are approximately 50000 species of algae. Algae contain economically valuable molecules, such as astaxanthin and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), and are used in food, cosmetics and animal feed industries. Green microalga Haematococcus pluvialis was considered to contain the highest amount of astaxanthin for many years. Recent research suggests that another green microalga, Dysmorphococcus globosus, contains more astaxanthin than H. pluvialis. D. globosus hasn't been studied extensively in the literature. Inthis study, approximately 1600 bp of the DNA barcoding gene 18S rRNA was sequenced for identification of a new green alga from the Ka & scedil; district. Molecular identification and microscopy analysis show this new isolate belongs to genus Dysmorphococcus. This is the first record of genus Dysmorphococcus H. Takeda and Dysmorphococcus globosus H.C. Bold & Starr in freshwater algal flora in T & uuml;rkiye.
Chicken meat production plays a vital role in the global food industry by providing a costeffective and sustainable protein source for a rapidly growing population. Given strategic importance, accurately estimating production levels is essential for improving operational efficiency, optimizing resource use, and responding to market demand. In recent years, data-oriented methods have become integral to modern agriculture, with machine learning models emerging as powerful tools for modeling agricultural outputs. This study aims to develop and compare predictive models for chicken meat production in T & uuml;rkiye using four machine learning algorithms: Linear Regression (LR), Random Forest (RF), k-Nearest Neighbors (k-NN), and Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost). The models were trained on a comprehensive dataset spanning 62 years (1961-2022), incorporating meteorological, agricultural, and economic variables. Key predictors such as feed use, weight gain, and environmental factors were included. The dataset was carefully prepared to ensure robust model training and validation. Model performance was evaluated using multiple metrics, including the coefficient of determination (R2), MAE, MSE, and RMSE. Results indicated that the Linear Regression model achieved the highest R2 value and the lowest error rates among all algorithms. These findings underscore the potential of AI-based approaches to enhance decision-making and resource management in the poultry sector. With further integration of diverse data sources and advanced learning techniques, this framework can contribute to the development of more efficient, adaptive, and sustainable poultry production systems.
Tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV) and Pepper mild mottle virus (PMMoV) not only cause economic yield losses but also limit production for pepper plants. Resistant genes are the only reliable management strategies to control such viral diseases, but these viruses are able to overcome such resistance mechanisms. Therefore, novel resistance genes should be used to control the TSWV and PMMoV diseases. For molecular detection of resistance genes, DNA quality and purity are extremely vital to obtain proper results. This study aims to identify the best extraction method using resistance gene markers from different leaves of pepper plants. PCR analyzes revealed that fresh first real leaf gave reliable DNA quality with the CTAB DNA extraction method and then the Dellaporta extraction method which yielded lower concentrations. Although the commercial DNA extraction method offered convenient results within PCR analyzes, it is cost effective for molecular breeding such as marker assisted selection programs in developing countries. The study has clearly addressed optimized DNA concentration, using different extraction methods, leaf samples from pepper plants and their storage conditions for ultimate results in breeding programs.
Global climate change has recently increased interest in some tropical fruit species in the Mediterranean and Aegean regions of T & uuml;rkiye. Among these tropical species, pitaya (dragon fruit) has gained popularity due to its tolerance to drought, ability to bear fruit one year after planting, suitability for soilless cultivation, and significant export potential. The objective of thise study is to investigate pitaya cultivation under protected cultivation in subtropical conditions. The research was conducted between 2020 and 2022 in the Manavgat district of Antalya on White Jaina and Red Jaina pitaya cultivars. The morphological parameters of the plants were evaluated as well as their physical properties and yield characteristics. The findings have revealed that the duration from flowering to harvest ranged between 44 and 45 days on average for both cultivars. The average fruit weight was measured as 264.60 g and 344.00 g for White Jaina and Red Jaina, respectively, and the difference was found to be statistically significant (P<0.05). Depending on the cultivar, the fruit circumference was measured as 20.58 cm and 21.99 cm, the fruit length as 13.07 cm and 12.22 cm, and the soluble solids content as 10.98% and 12.35%, respectively. By the end of the second year of the study, the yield per hectare was calculated as 1.74 tons ha(-1) for White Jaina and 1.65 tons ha(-1) for Red Jaina. The findings have indicated that both pitaya cultivars could be cultivated under protected cultivation conditions in Manavgat, which has a colder winter climate than the Alanya and Gazipa & scedil;a districts of Antalya.
The conservation of endemic genetic resources is crucial for maintaining genetic diversity in animal production, particularly in honeybees, where preserving local adaptations is challenging. Türkiye’s rich flora, supported by diverse climates, fosters various honeybee races and ecotypes. Bingöl province, situated at the intersection of three phytogeographic regions, is a biodiversity hotspot and a key beekeeping center. Genetic characterization of 141 worker bees from five Bingöl locations, using 30 microsatellite loci, revealed 6.77% genetic variation among locations, 65.69% among individuals, and 27.54% overall. The population exhibited signs of a genetic bottleneck and deviated from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. Phylogenetic analysis distinguished the Bingöl honeybee population from other Turkish populations, representing five different honeybee genotypes: Muğla (Apis mellifera anatolica), Hatay (Apis mellifera syriaca), Kırklareli (Apis mellifera carnica), Artvin (Apis mellifera caucasica), and Düzce (Apis mellifera anatolica, Yığılca ecotype), revealing 18 specific alleles that may indicate local genetic distinctiveness.
