Damascus University Journal of agriculture sciences
A specialized peer-reviewed scientific journal concerned with studies on innovative research and research in various agricultural sciences (in the field of horticulture, field crops, plant protection, biological control, food science, animal production, renewable natural resources, environment, rural engineering, economics and agricultural extension). The Journal of Agricultural Sciences was jot the international number ISSN: 1999-7310,ISSN: 2789-7214 (online)
Metabolic Products and Biological Roles of Lactic Acid Bacteria in Fermented Products of Dairy: A Review
Fermented products of dairy are widely popular worldwide and play various roles, including extending the shelf life of milk and providing health benefits to manufactured products. Fermented products of dairy provide essential nutrients in the human diet, along with compounds typically found in milk or added as precursors, including lactic acid bacteria (LAB), produced, too. Peptides, organic acids, vitamins, and active compounds are among the biologically active compounds that LAB are capable of producing. Due to their metabolic activity, LAB secrete specialized enzymes such as proteases, lipases, and lactases, which break down the main components of milk, including proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. These enzymes also produce active peptides such as angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory peptides and bacteriocins, along with biologically active external polysaccharides, making them functional foods with health-promoting effects. In recent years, there has been significant progress in understanding how LAB are medically important. The consumption of fermented products of dairy has been associated with several health-promoting effects, such as lowering cholesterol, and hypertension, as well as antioxidant activity, antimicrobial activity, and immune benefits, including protection against cancer, lactose intolerance, milk allergy, and hypoglycemya. The sensory approval of dairy products is also enhanced by the addition of LAB, that increase the acidity of the product and impart a desirable flavor, aroma, and texture.
Copyright (c) 2025 Damascus University Journal of agriculture sciences
Assessing Aquacrop Model for Deficit Irrigation Management on Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench)
The study was conducted in 2023, during which the sorghum crop (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) was cultivated in the biocontrol garden of the Faculty of Agricultural Engineering at the University of Damascus. The aim was to evaluate the AquaCrop mathematical model for managing deficit irrigation of the sorghum crop. Three irrigation treatments (I1, I2, and I3) were applied, corresponding to 100%, 80%, and 60% of the total net water requirement of the crop, respectively, with each treatment replicated three times. Treatment I1 was used to calibrate the model, and the field evaluation of the model's performance was conducted. The results of the statistical analysis showed that the simulation of crop growth using the AquaCrop model was highly accurate for vegetation cover (CC), biomass (B), and grain yield (Y), despite the crop being subjected to varying levels of water stress. This was supported by high values of the Willmott index (d), which reached 99%, with a variance (D) ranging from -8.46% to 17.39%, and a normalized root mean square error (NRMSE) ranging from 15.52% to 19.02% for vegetation cover, and from 4.63% to 20.93% for biomass and grain yield. However, for evapotranspiration (ET), the prediction accuracy decreased as water stress increased. The NRMSE value for treatment I3 rose to 51.3%, and the d value dropped to 0.95.
Phenomenon of fruit cracking, causes, and methods of control
Fruit cracking is one of the most important main reasons that lead to serious economic losses due to damage to the fruits and increased susceptibility to fungal and bacterial infections ، Fruit cracking often results from sudden and rapid growth of the fruit. Phenomenon of fruit cracking is often linked to excessive irrigation of water and thus its rapid absorption by the plant. This phenomenon may occur due to changes in environmental conditions, such as changing from cold weather and high humidity to hot and dry weather. Many factors contribute to avoiding this phenomenon, including regular irrigation and balanced fertilization, especially with calcium, as well as planting crack-resistant varieties and using growth regulators and transpiration inhibitors to reduce this phenomenon.
Identify Types Of Chemical Compounds Of Thickening Materials Extracted From The Malva By FT-IR Technology
This research aimed to study the chemical composition of thickening materials extracted from the Malva plant. The research was conducted in the laboratories of the Faculty of Science, University of Damascus. The thickening materials were extracted using organic solvents (acetone), then dried in a drying oven at 45°C until the weight was constant, and preserved in dry powder form for later use. It was possible to determine The chemical composition of the extracted materials based on the Fourier Infrared Analysis (FT-IR) technique, based on determining the nature of the functional groups present in these materials. The resulting FT-IR spectrum contained many peaks that indicated the presence of functional groups that are involved in the synthesis of mallow thickening materials. Hydroxyl, methyl and carboxyl groups appeared, which are involved in the synthesis of the main components of thickening materials, which are galactose, rhamnose, and galacturonic acid. Some peaks also indicated peptic bonds, which is evidence of the presence of the protein.
Copyright (c) 2024 Damascus University Journal of agriculture sciences
First record of the bacterial communication signal 11-methyldodecenoic acid from the DSF family in the angular spot bacteria on the cotton, Xanthomonas citri subsp. malvacearum
Xanthomonas citri subsp. malvacearum (Xcm), which belongs to the genus Xanthomonas, is one of the most dangerous pathogens that effect to the cotton plant, as it infects most of its parts, causing quantitative and qualitative economic losses. The Xanthomonas sp. use bacterial communication system Quorum Sensing (QS), which is mediated by Diffusible Signal Factor (DSF-family), signals to regulate and coordinate the expression of pathogenicity genes in response to their numerical density in the medium. Therefore, the research aimed to detect bacterial signals belonging to the DSF family in Xcm bacteria using the liquid chromatography method associated with a liquid chromatography-mass spectrum (LC-MS). The results of LC-MS analysis revealed a number of DSF family molecules Cis-2-undecenoic acid, 12-methyltetradecenoic acid, and 11-methyldodecanoic acid, with ionic weights 197, 241, 213 z\m, respectively. It should be noted that this research has shown, for the first time, the presence of one of the DSF derivatives, which is 11-methyldodecanoic acid, in one of the species of Xanthomonas.
Modern technologies used in detecting adulteration of meat and its products (review)
At present, the traditional methods used for the detection of livestock and poultry meat mostly include sensory evaluation by experts, chemical indicator detection, and microbial detection. Although these methods have commendable detection accuracy, their application becomes more difficult when applied to large-scale production by companies. Compared to traditional detection methods, modern techniques discovered in recent years can have advantages in high efficiency and accuracy in measurement with short examination time, so they have been of widespread interest to researchers. Accordingly, this article represents an analysis of trends in the development of test systems for meat identification. These test systems are commonly used in food production and research laboratories. The importance of developing methods for identifying types of meat relates not only to the dietary restrictions practiced in some religions related to the consumption of certain types of meat, but also to the hygienic aspects of food production. This article provides a comprehensive overview of modern methods for detecting meat adulteration, which includes either adding a non-food substance to increase the amount of raw food or unintentionally added non-food substances. Food adulteration also includes any toxic or harmful substances that may make food harmful to health. Food adulteration can be either the process of adding or removing valuable food ingredients or replacing these valuable ingredients with relatively less expensive (cheaper) ingredients for unfair economic gain. This act of food adulteration may be an economic gain for the manufacturer who adulterates the food, while it represents a loss for the ultimate consumer of the products. While purchasing and serving adulterated food, consumers are affected in different ways; They may not get the intended nutrients, adulterated food may be unsafe for their health and can also pose an economic loss to consumers. These methods include physical, chemical, biochemical and other techniques. Detecting adulterated food is more difficult when both the adulterated substance and the food itself have approximately the same physicochemical composition. Food fraud interferes with consumers' right to safe, good-quality food. Therefore, all responsible individuals and organizations, including the government, must fulfill their responsibility to protect the act of food fraud and expose the identified acts.
Study on the Distribution of Cereal Cyst Nematodes Heterodera spp. in Wheat and Barley Fields in Northern and Eastern Regions of Syria and the Definition of their Species
Study of distribution of cyst nematodes Heterodera spp. was conducted in 167 wheat and barley fields, in northern and eastern regions of Syria, after harvesting plants, 2009. Results showed that 62.28% of the surveyed fields were infested. Infestation ratios in Aleppo, Al-Hassakah, Idleb, Der Ezzor and Al-Raqqa governorates were 82.86, 72, 66.67, 50 and 20.29% of the total surveyed fields in each governorate, respectively. Based on morphological characteristics of the cyst vulval cone, three species of cereal cyst nematodes were identified: H. latipons Franklin where was found alone up to 67.31% of infested fields, and mixed with other species in 8.65%. H. avenae Wollenweber was found alone up to 20.19%, and mixed with other species in 10.58%. H. filipjevi (Madzhidov,1981) Stone which has limited distribution, it was found mixed with one or two species of cyst nematodes up to 8,65%.
Copyright (c) 2019 Damascus University Journal of agriculture sciences
Isolation of bacteria Pediococcus that has Inhibitory effect on Listeria monocytogenes bacteria from some local food
This study was carried out in order to isolate and characterize Pediococcus bacteria from some Syrian foods and study the growth inhibitory effect of the isolated strains against of the bacteria Listeria monocytogenes. 119 isolates were isolated from different samples of local fermented food and defined based on the characteristics of lactic acid bacteria. The microscopic examinations show presence of 20 oval-shaped isolate Conducted by biochemical tests to determine which isolates follow the Pediococcus genus. The isolates were classified using PCR technique and the isolates were classified as API / 50CHL. The result shows that 8 isolates belong to P. acidilactici and 10 isolates belong P.pentosaceus and 2 isolates of P. damnosus. These isolates were investigated for their inhibitory effect against Listeria monocytogenes. All isolates have a potent inhibitory effect of L. monocytogenes. The results showed that isolates 16 and 12 have the largest inhibition zone of diameter 27mm.
Effect of different chemical treatments on the chemical and sensory properties of C. pubescens hawthorn fruits during cryopreservation
This research was carried out in the laboratories of the Department of Food Sciences at the Faculty of Agriculture, Damascus University, and the Laboratory of Food Biotechnology at the General Authority for Biotechnology. The aim of this research is to study the chemical and sensory changes that occur on hawthorn fruits C. pubescens growing in the countryside of Lattakia city after being treated with different concentrations of citric acid and sodium metabisulfite and stored at a temperature of 4 °C for a period of 90 days. The content of flavonoids stored only by refrigeration without any chemical treatment at the end of the storage period decreased significantly to 4.70 mg/100g, while this decrease was less in the samples treated with citric acid 3% and metabisulfite 2% in the same storage period, as it reached 5.60 mg/100g and 6. 40 mg/100 g, respectively. The treatment of the fruits with a 4% sodium metabisulfite solution was superior to all other treatments, as there was no significant change in the fruit content of reference sugars, vitamin C, total phenols, and antioxidant activity after two weeks of storage (9.15%, 14.76 mg/100g, and 13.19 mg/100g and 55.86%), respectively. While the change was significant after the same period of storage for the fruit content of vitamin C, total phenols, flavonoids, and antioxidant activity when treated with citric acid 2%, citric acid 3%, and metabisulfite 2%. No significant change was observed in the reducing sugars content of the fruits after two weeks of storage when stored in refrigeration only without any treatment and when treated with 3% citric acid. The vitamin C content of the fruits decreased at the end of the storage period to 13.21 mg/100g, 12.99 mg/100g, 12.10 mg/100g, 11.90 mg/100g, and 11.30 mg/100g when treated with 4% metabisulfite, 2% metabisulfite, and acid. Citric 3%, citric acid 2%, and the refrigerated-stored sample only without any treatment, respectively. Also, the antioxidant activity decreased at the end of the storage period for fruits treated with 4% metabisulfite, 2% metabisulfite, 3% citric acid, 2% citric acid, and the refrigerated-stored sample without any treatment to 54.32%, 54.14%, 53.10%, 52.50%, and 51%. .26%, respectively. The results of the sensory tests showed that the fruits treated with sodium metabisulfite solutions were more acceptable in terms of color and taste and less acceptable in terms of texture compared to the fruits treated with citric acid and the fruits stored in refrigeration without any treatment, while the fruits treated with citric acid were more acceptable in terms of texture and less acceptable than color. At the end of the storage period, the fruits stored in refrigeration without any chemical treatment were less acceptable in terms of taste, color and texture compared to samples treated with sodium metabisulfite and citric acid.
Copyright (c) 2026 Damascus University Journal of agriculture sciences
Determination of Factors Affecting the Concentration of lead and cadmium in Wheat and Some of its Products
This study aimed to conduct a survey to determine the degree of contamination of heavy metals (lead and cadmium) in different samples of local and imported wheat grains (local durum wheat, local bread wheat and Russian imported soft wheat prepared for milling), samples of flour types (high quality flour and standard flour) and bran, from different sources of wheat and in different seasons. These samples were collected from a number of county mills during two seasons (Spring and Autumn) during 2018. The concentration of lead and cadmium were measured by atomic absorption in laboratories of Soil Science Department, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Damascus. The results revealed that the concentration of lead in wheat grain samples exceeded the maximum allowable concentration of food (0.200 mg/kg) and reached very high concentrations (1.477 mg/kg). By contrast, the percentage of cadmium contamination was below the maximum allowable concentration in food (0.050 mg/kg). The source of wheat had a significant effect on the variation in cadmium and lead ratios in the wheat grain samples. These results revealed the importance of the area planted with wheat on the degree of contamination of wheat grains with these minerals. On the other hand, the concentration of lead in the flour samples were lower compared to the grain samples, while the samples of flour produced in Spring only showed values higher than the permitted concentrations of cadmium. The mill and the flour type showed a significant effect on the degree of contamination of the flour by lead, while the mill and the season had the greatest effect on the degree of contamination by cadmium. All bran samples showed concentration of lead higher than (0.200 mg/kg) and values of cadmium concentration lower than (0.050 mg/kg). The mill had a strong controlling effect on the degree of lead contamination of the bran, while the season had the greatest effect on cadmium.
Copyright (c) 2020 Damascus University Journal of agriculture sciences
Susceptibility of some grapevine varieties to dead arm disease caused by Phomopsis viticola (Diaporthales; Diaporthaceae) in Sweida Governorate
The susceptibility of some grapevine Vitis vinifera cultivars (Al-Salti, Al-aswad, Al-ziyni, Al-baladi, Al-hulwani) grown in Sweida Governorate to infection with dead arm disease caused by the fungus Phomopsis viticola, was tested during the 2020 season, Within the vineyards (natural infection), and in the greenhouse (Industrial infection) at the Scientific Agricultural Research Center in Sweida. Field and semi-field results showed that the “Al-Salti” cultivar was the most susceptible to the disease tested, with an industrial infection rate of 100%, followed by the “Al-aswad” and “Al-ziyni” cultivars, with moderate or moderate susceptibility (80 and 75%), respectively. While both the “Al-baladi” and “Al-Hulwani” cultivars recorded a lower susceptibility to dead arm disease (35 and 25%), respectively. Analysis of the Contrasts in the average degree of injury severity in each cultivar showed that there were statistically significant differences in injury severity at the level of 0.05, and these differences are due to the cultivar. The value of the theta correlation coefficient () showed the strength of the correlation between the cultivar and injury severity, as it reached 81% at a significant level. 0.05. The test for estimating the proportion of carbohydrates in the canes showed an inverse relationship with the susceptibility to infection. The ANOVA test showed that there was a significant effect of the cultivar on the concentration of carbohydrates. The average concentration of carbohydrates in the “Al-Salti” cultivar was the lowest at 51.72%, with significant differences with the rest of the cultivars at the level of The significance is 0.05, and the highest is in the “Al-Baladi” and “Al-Hulwani” cultivars, which are less susceptible to infection, 56.08% and 56.46%, respectively. This confirms the role of carbohydrates in the defense mechanism against the pathogen.
The Effect of Different Levels of Tomato Plant Waste Compost and Mineral Fertilizer on the Availability of Macronutrient Elements in Clay soil and on Potato productivity (Solanum tuberosum L.)
This research was carried out in the field in Daraa Governorate during one agricultural season in 2022, with the aim of studying the effect of different rates of tomato waste compost and mineral fertilizer on the availability of macronutrient elements (NPK) and potato productivity in clay soil. A randomized complete block design (R.C.B.D.) was used with six treatments and three replications. The treatments were as follows: (T0): Control without any addition, (T1): 100% mineral fertilizer, (T2): 75% mineral fertilizer and 25% compost of tomato plant waste. (T3): 50% mineral fertilizer and 50% compost of tomato plant waste, (T4): 25% mineral fertilizer and 75% compost of tomato plant waste, (T5): 100% compost of tomato plant waste; mineral and organic nitrogen fertilizers was added according to the plant’s need for nitrogen. The results showed the effective role of tomato plant waste compost in increasing the soil’s total nitrogen content, as the two treatments (T5) and (T4) outperformed the control treatment, and the percentage increase in the soil’s total nitrogen content was (44.83% and 41.38%), respectively. The soil content of available phosphorus and potassium also increased in direct proportion to the increase in the rates added from tomato plant waste compost. The percentage increase in the soil content of available phosphorus and potassium in the treatment (T5) compared to the control treatment was (106.80% and 21.41%), respectively; which was reflected positively on the content of these two elements in the leaves. The results also showed that composting tomato plant waste contributed to increasing productivity and reducing the amount of mineral fertilizers by 25%.
Studying Some Characterization Of Candied Fruits In Syria
The study included eight types of dried fruits by sugar (apples, pears, peaches, orange, bitter orange, figs, cacti and eggplant) sold in Local market, were conducted some chemical and microbiological tests on samples, which showed higher pears samples of the moisture content of the (38%), while the fruits of candied eggplant shown a remarkable increase in the pH (6.11), and the highest content of total sugars reached (62.63 %) on a dry weight basis in the candied apples. Candied apple samples also excelled in the content of total phenols (6.35 mg galic acid / 100 g). The study found that the total count of bacteria in all studied species of dried fruit was under 1 × 102, in addition to contamination with bacteria E.coli and yeast and perhaps this is due to the method of manufacturing and supply at the sales, which may not take into account the often health conditions, while samples were free of bacteria Staph. aureus.
Copyright (c) 2023 Damascus University Journal of agriculture sciences
Inbreeding effect on quantitative and qualitative specifications of Mulberry silkworm
The study was carried out at silkworm Laboratory of Agricultural Scientific Research Center of Lattakia, and aimed to improve the quantitative and qualitative specifications of silkworm hybrid Bombyx mori L. Rearing in Syrian coast by inbreeding and family selection. Silkworm hybrid were reared In 2018 at (23-27 °C) and 65-85% R.H., healthy and morphologically similar cocoons were selected and four families were established: Family A (oval cocoons), Family B (waisted cocoons), Family C (elongated cocoons) and Family D (spherical cocoons). Then the offspring were selected within each family based on the weight of the cocoon, shell, and the fecundity rate (egg/female), until reaching the sixth generation (2023 season). The results showed the effectiveness of inbreeding and selection in improving the productive and qualitative characteristics of silkworm families as the generations progressed. The sixth generation of the family A, B was significantly superior in the average weight of larvae, cocoon, pupa, shell, percentage of effectiveness ERR%, fecundity, shell ratio, filament weight, length and denier,.in family A, (6.003g, 1.83g, 1.44g, 0.37g, 93.63% ,709.7 egg/ female, 20.16%, 0.34g, 1500.65m, 2.03denier) respectively, and it was in family B (5.11g, 1.65g, 1.32g, 0.31g, 18.80%, 600.83, egg/ female, 0.28g, 1291.10m, 1.66 denier) respectively. Results also indicated that there were no significant differences in some productive traits in the C and D families as the generations progressed, but it was observed that the sixth generation outperformed, with significant differences, in fertility rate, larval mortality, and development period (661.16 eggs/female, 9.33%, 50.09 Day).
Effect of water stress on some developmental and morphological indicators of sesame genotypes
The research was carried out during the 2021 agricultural season at the Qarhata Research Station of the General Commission for Scientific Agricultural Research, with the aim of studying the response of 13 genotypes of sesame to water stress conditions applied during the flowering stage. The experiment was carried out according to a randomized complete block design (RCBD), in split-plot arrangement, in three replications. The results of the statistical analysis showed that there were significant differences (P≤0.05) in the traits of number of days until flowering, number of days until full maturity, plant height, and number of branches between the treatments, genotypes, and interaction effect. Water stress caused a significant decline in these traits, while the differences in the height of the first branch and the height of the first capsule weren't significant. The genotypes also varied in their response to water stress conditions, as the two genotypes Hourani5 and Zuri4, achieved the lowest rates of decline in the average plant height and the highest rates of decline in the number of branches per plant, while the two genotypes, Zuri3 and Zuri con. showed the highest rates of decline in plant height. The Zuri2 genotype significantly increased the number of branches per plant, and there were no significant differences in the rates of decrease in the number of days to flowering and maturity in all genotypes.
An Economic Analytical Study for Moskmelon Crops Production in Daraa Governorate
Summary The study aimed to analyze the economics of producing moskmelon crops in Daraa Governorate. It was carried out in the selected villages affiliated with the administrative regions (Daraa Center, Al-Sanamayn, and Izraa), which were taken using a random sampling method. They numbered 38 villages, and 260 farmers were selected using a random sampling method from the aforementioned villages. The objectives of the study were achieved by relying on the application of a stepwise multiple linear regression model to determine the effect of a group of independent factors on the dependent variable (the area cultivated moskrmelon crops), and to estimate its production costs and the economic return achieved, according to irrigation methods.and a Likert scale was applied to enumerate the difficulties and problems facing farmers according to their point of view.The results of the analysis showed that there is a positive and significant correlation with a positive moral effect at the level of significance (0.01) between the independent factor (the farmer’s age and experience in producing the crop, his level of education, and the yield of the moskmelon and Its selling price) in the dependent factor, the area of crops, There is a negative and significant correlation at the level of significance (0.01) between the independent workers (size of land holding and irrigated area) and the aforementioned dependent workers.The costs of producing moskmelon amounted to about 11,040 thousand Syr/ha for crop, respectively. The results of the analysis also showed that there were significant differences with There is statistical significance for the total costs and the net profit of the in the study area, The study recommends securing production requirements, especially fuel, with the aim of reducing the production costs of the crop in the study sample, and encouraging farmers to expand the cultivation of the moskmelon. it is more profitable. Keywords: Mosk, melon, Costs, Daraa.
Spatial and temporal analysis of Cobalt distribution in the groundwater of Akkar Plain at Tartous Governorate/ Syria
This research investigated Cobalt's seasonal and spatial distribution in the groundwater of 19 wells in Akkar Plain, Tartous Governorate, Syria. Spatial analysis revealed that Agricultural Well 1 had the highest Cobalt concentration in the groundwater, with an average value of 0.107 mg/L. Conversely, the Karto 1 well had the lowest concentration at 0.054 mg/L. The temporal analysis demonstrated that Cobalt concentrations were higher in spring than in autumn, with average values of 0.085 mg/L in spring and 0.075 mg/L in autumn. Of the four seasons, spring 2019 had the highest average Cobalt concentration at 0.141 mg/L, while spring 2020 had the lowest at 0.03 mg/L. The variance distribution test indicated that the season factor was the most significant factor affecting the variance of Cobalt distribution among the studied factors (replicates, season, site, site*season). The excessive use of fertilizers is believed to be the main cause of Cobalt distribution in the groundwater. Other contributing factors include untreated sewage sludge, irrigation from Cobalt-contaminated water bodies, and the high levels of this metal in soils, either naturally or due to agricultural activities. All of these factors have led to an increase in Cobalt concentrations in the groundwater. Groundwater Cobalt distribution in Akkar Plain decreased significantly during spring 2020 due to COVID-19 quarantine, highlighting human impact. Thematic maps and statistical studies have shown that the distribution of Cobalt in the groundwater of Akkar Plain is widespread. The majority of the results indicate that the levels of Cobalt exceed the permissible limit for drinking water of 0.05 mg/L.
The effect of some environmental factors on milk production and the duration of the generation in the Buffalo of the Ghab - Syria
The study was conducted at the buffalo development and education station in the Shattah of the Agricultural Scientific Research Authority in Syria in 2022 AD. In order to study the impact of environmental factors (birth number - separation and year of birth /birth on the characteristics of milk production and duration of dungeon in the Ghab buffalo, depending on the station's records (birth record and births - milk production control record - pollination and birth record). Where 300 buffalo records were used that serve the search over 22 years from 2000 to 2022, and the data was classified in the lace program and analyzed using the Harvey Statistical Package Program (Harvey.1990). Duration of milk /day 833 ± 295 and 209 ± 72, respectively. The results of the analysis of the difference in the moral effect of the birth number, the separation and the year of birth /birth showed both milk production and the duration of the generation.
Economic analysis of the cultivation and production of the cotton crop (Gossypium hirsutum L.) in Al-Hasakah Governorate
The research aimed to conduct an economic analysis of the cultivation and production of the cotton crop in Al-Hasakah Governorate. The data was collected from a random sample of cotton farmers, the size of which was (268) farmers. Frequencies and percentages were used in addition to calculating some economic and productivity indicators for this crop. The results showed that the average yield was (400) kg / dunum. The total costs of cotton production amounted to (984678.37) SP / dunum, and the value of the total variable costs of the cotton crop was (373957.5) SP / dunum, while the value of fixed costs amounted to (610720.87) SP / dunum, and accordingly the economic profit is estimated at (1090321.63) SP / dunum. As for the economic efficiency, it was (2.11), and the commercial efficiency was (5.55).
The effect of conservation and conventional agriculture systems on the physical characteristics in (Inceptisols).
The research was carried out at the Center for Scientific Agricultural Research in Qamishli, in the first settlement area, according to a random plot design, by planting the wheat crop, Sham 7, within two treatments: 1 conservation agriculture 2 conventional agriculture, with four replicates for each treatment, where the seed (Baldan) was used. The conservation agriculture treatment was cultivated, while the conventional agriculture treatment was cultivated and cultivated using a Harrow plow. The study over the two seasons (the first 2021-2022 - the second 2022-2023) led to the following results: The conservation agriculture system led to an increase in soil moisture compared to a conventional agriculture system at the end of the first season after harvest by (10.96)% for the depth (10-20) cm. And (7.07)% for the depth (20-30)cm, and the beginning of the second season by (4.14)% for the depth (10-20)cm and (8.8)% for the depth (20-30)cm, and the end of the second season after harvest by (20-30)cm. (17.76)% for depth (10-20) cm and (12.68)% for depth (20-30) cm. The field capacity increases by (0.31), the hygroscopic moisture by (4.23) and the saturation percentage by (0.33) at the end of the first season, and this increase increases at the end of the second season to become the percentage increase of (7.74%) for the field capacity, ( 8.26%) for hygroscopic moisture and (4.38%) for the saturation percentage, and significantly in the conservation agriculture system compared to the conventional agriculture system. The conservation agriculture system also reduced the rate of water leakage by a percentage at the end of the first season (43.15%) and at the end of the second season (67.01%) in an insignificant manner compared to the conventional agriculture system.
Banana Peels As Substrate For Amylase Production By Locally Isolated Bacillus And Characterization Of The Enzyme
he amylase enzyme production was detected from 14 bacterial isolates isolated from different soil samples using the plate assay method. Only 7 isolates (50%) of these isolates showed their ability to produce the amylase. The highest-producing isolates were chose based on the diameter of clear hydrolization halo formed around their colonies on the plate, there were three isolates. Based on morphoogical and chemical characteristics and the API 50 CHB system, 3 strains were identified as Bacillus subtilis. The isolate which had biggest halo on the plate (A4) was selected for further studies. The activity of the enzyme produced using banana peels as the sole carbon source was estimated and the enzyme activity was 43.17 U/ml. Optimum temperature and pH for enzymatic activity of this strain were pH 8.0 (44.09 U/ml) and 45 °C (44.83 U/ml).
The Impact Of Land Use Changes On Forest Biomass Productivity In Markia Basin Using Remote Sensing Techniques And Geographic Information Systems
The current research aims to study the impact of changes in land use in the Markia River Basin on the biomass productivity of forests in the basin. Spot - kvi - Bka satellite images with spatial resolution (10 - 2.5 - 2.5 m respectively) were used to produce land use maps for the years (2010 - 2015 - 2020). The results showed a decline in the class of the forest lands from 95.39 km2 to 89.72 km2 and 88.17 km2 respectively. The class of mixed-use lands decreased from 21.01 km2 to 12.43 km2, 12.03 km2. While the class of agricultural land increased from 208.05 km2 to 218.70 km2 and 218.29 km2, respectively. also, the urban land area increased from 17.98 km2 to 21.92 km2 and 23.35 km2, respectively. While the changes were subtle in the barren and neglected lands. Class changed from forest lands to other land types was also calculated. The area of land that changed from forest lands to urban lands, agricultural lands, mixed-use lands, and affected by fires was (0.30, 5.43, 1.75, 0.76) km2, respectively. While the area of land that was converted from agricultural land to forest land was (0.56) km2, and from mixed-use lands to forest land was (0.46) km2. Changes in land use during the years studied led to changes in the productivity of biomass in forest lands of the Markia Basin. Losing 1 km2 of forest area corresponds to a loss of approximately 94.12 kg/ha of biomass productivity.
Isolation, identification and pathogenicity of wilting causes of some cucurbits in Syria
The research was carried out in the Biodiversity laboratory, National Commission for Biotechnology in Damascus during 2020-2022 aiming to isolate and identify the causes of wilt of cucurbits from the roots of some cucurbit crops. Thirty samples were collected from four governorates (Damascus countryside, Daraa, and Deir ez-Zor) and from different host crops (cucumber, squash, melon, and watermelon). The fungal isolates were purified and characterized morphologically, in addition to study their pathogenicity (incidence and severity of infection) for each isolate on its host. 10 fungal isolates were described in the laboratory, all of which belong to the type Fusarium oxysoporum, and their host specialization was confirmed. cucumerinum and isolates FO3 and FO4 of Fusarium oxysporum and isolates FO5 and FO6 from Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. melonis, while the isolates FO7, FO8, FO9, FO10 were of Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. niveum. Micro- and macroconidia were produced in all previous isolates, and the diameter of the colony ranged between 3.8 cm - 5.8 cm, after three days of incubation at 27±3°C on PDA medium, while the severity of infection ranged between 11.6%-69.3%. The isolate FO7 from watermelon from Dara’a region was the strongest isolate in terms of colony diameter, degree of infection and severity followed by isolate FO5 from cantaloupe from Deir-ez-Zor region.. In this research, it was possible to select the two most virulent fungal isolate to be used in experiments with bacteria isolated from the soil of the rhizosphere of healthy plants isolated from the same fields. Key Words: Cucurbit wilt, Fusarium oxysporum, Watermelon, melon
Economic Impact of Enhancing Food Security Project on Wheats’ Farmers in AL-Safira District, Aleppo
The research aimed to determine the economic impact of the Enhancing Food Security Project in Syria in Al-Safira area in Aleppo. Depending on the comparative approach through a field survey of the community of farmers who participated in the project and applied the package of agricultural recommendations for wheat (180 farmers), And a sample of other farmers (186 farmers). Information was collected through personal interviews during the 2019/2020 and 2020/2021 seasons. The results showed that the project contributed to reducing the total production costs of the participating farmers significantly by 10%. The average yield of irrigated wheat per hectare increased by 7.04%. The achieved net profit increased by 21.84%. The net return in relation to the total revenue increased by 8.72%. The results of the analysis showed an increase in the profitability of farmers adopting modern agricultural techniques. The project played a major role in disseminating the agricultural technology package and improving the economic situation of farmers. The most important problems for farmers were the high costs of production inputs, transportation costs, and the lack of fertilizers.
The vapor effect of essential oil of some plants on adults and larvae of the Mediterranean flour moth (Ephestia kuehniella Zeller) in the laboratory
The study was carried out in the laboratory of Plant Production Dept. and Dep. of Basic Sciences, at faculty of agriculture/Damascus University during 2022-2023. The study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of essential oils obtained from leaves of Laurus nobilis L., Eucalyptus camaldulensis Dehn and fruits of Schinus molle L. on adult and larvae of Ephestia kuehniella Zeller in laboratory. The results showed that the LC50 values after 24 hours for Mediterranean flour moth adults were 15.74, 31.30 and 18.01 μL/L air, while the LC50 for red 1st larvae were 16.73, 44.17 and 20.56 μL/L air and the LC50 for 3rd larvae 51.65, 60.84 and 56.35 μL/L air for L. nobilis, E. camaldulensis and fruits of S. molle respectively. The results showed that the essential oils of L. nobilis, S. molle were significantly superior to all treatments and in both treatment of evaporation adults and larvae of the Mediterranean flour moth. The effectiveness of essential oils of the tested plants increased with increasing concentration and exposure time.
The Effect of Soil Physical and Chemical Characteristics on the Diversity and Spread of Entomopathogenic Fungi in Several Locations in Southern Syria.
Abstract: This study aimed to demonstrate the effect of some soil chemical properties (pH, electrical conductivity, and organic matter), and some soil physical properties (soil texture) on the presence of insect-pathogenic fungi. The research was carried out during the 2021-2022 seasons. 30 soil samples were collected from different agricultural and natural ecosystems from several locations in southern Syria (Abu Qawuq, Saasa, Beit Saber, then Henna). The baited trap method using Galleria mellonella larvae was used to detect the presence of entomopathogenic fungi in soil samples. The percentage of soil samples that contained insect-pathogenic fungi reached 60% of the total samples tested. The total number of isolates obtained was 100 isolates belonging to 18 species belonging to (12) genera: Acremonium, Aspergillus, Beauveria, Paecilomyces, Lecanicillium, Penicillium, Verticillium, Cladosporium, Fusarium, Metarhizium, Mucor, and Rhizopus distributed in (7) seven species from the soil of several fields in the sites of Abu Qawuq, Sassa, Beit Saber, and then Henna in the Damascus countryside. The study showed a difference in the effect of physical and chemical properties on the recorded soil fungi depending on the study areas and the difference in the recorded soil fungi. There are soil fungi that are positively correlated with the percentage of clay, and fungi that are positively correlated with the percentage of sand. There was no positive correlation for all fungi in all study areas with celt. Keywords: Properties chemical, Physical, Fungi, Southern Syria, Soil.
Effect of Different Temperatures of Hot Air Frying on Some Quality Properties of Potato Crisps (Chips)
This research has been carried out at Food Science Department-Faculty of Agriculture-Damascus university and National Commission for Biotechnology Labs intended to study the effect of air frying temperature (165, 175, 185 °C), on some quality properties of potato chips, in addition to estimate the acrylamide content. Results showed that samples fried with hot air were superior to the control sample (traditional frying) with respect to the amount of absorbed oil and the amount of formed acrylamide. The results for the absorbed oil of samples fried with hot air (165, 175, 185 °C) were 1.45, 1.16, and 1.13% respectively, while in the control sample it was 32.21%. As for the amount of formed acrylamide, it reached 231.17, 208.91 and 251.89m g/kg, respectively, while the amount formed in the control sample was 895.32m g/kg. The results showed that temperature is one of the most important factors affecting air frying of potato chips, as the samples fried with hot air at a temperature of 175°C were distinguished from the rest of the studied samples in some of the sensory properties. the results were 7.7 and 8.8 for tests of overall acceptance and color respectively For color indices, the degree of brightness L* reached 74.71, and the redness index. a* 3.99, yellowing index b* 25.03, while color degree ∆E was 14.87, and browning index BI was 43.87. Samples fried with hot air outperformed the control sample at all studied temperatures. The hot air frying method can be considered a safe and promising method from a health and industrial standpoint.
Comparing The Application of Alternating Partial Irrigation and Deficit Irrigation on Potatoes
This research was conducted in AL-derkhabia in countryside rural Damascus during the season 2021, and the Potato tubers was planted on 8 April, 2021(Summer season), to study the possibility of improving the water use efficiency of Potatoes crop (Everest variety) by applying Deficit Irrigation. The experiment was designed Randomized complete block design with nine treatments of different amounts of water during plant growth stages in three replications for each treatment on the level of confidence 95% . The treatments were as follows: Full irrigation treatment FI (control), Alternating partial irrigation 80% of full irrigation for all growth stages API80, Alternating partial irrigation 80% of full irrigation for both stages (tuber filling and maturity) API80TF, Alternating partial irrigation 70% of full irrigation for all growth stages API70 , Alternate partial irrigation treatment 70% of full irrigation for the two stages (tuber filling and maturity) API70TF, Deficit irrigation 80% of full irrigation for all growth stages DI80, Deficit irrigation 80% of full irrigation for both stages (tuber filling and maturity) DI80TF, Deficit Irrigation 70% of full irrigation for all growth stages DI70 , Deficit irrigation treatment 70% of full irrigation for the two stages (tuber filling and maturity) DI70TF. The results showed that there were no significant differences in productivity between the treatment 100% of full irrigation and each of treatments of Alternating partial irrigation 80% and 70% of full irrigation for the two stages (tuber filling and maturity) and Deficit irrigation 80% and 70% of full irrigation for the two stages (tuber filling and maturity) and the values was (32.72, 30.56, 29.98, 30.86, 30.74 Ton.h-3 respectively). While the results showed that there were significant differences in productivity between the treatment 100% of full irrigation, and each of the treatments Alternating partial irrigation 80% of full irrigation for all stages of growth (API80) and the treatment of Deficit irrigation 70% of full irrigation for all stages of growth (API70), and Deficit irrigation 80% of full irrigation for all stages of growth (DI80) and the treatment of Deficit irrigation 70% of full irrigation for all stages of growth (DI70), with a percentage decrease of 47%, 56%, 38% and 47%, respectively. The highest value of water use efficiency was recorded in Alternating partial irrigation treatment 70% of full irrigation for the two stages (tuber filling and maturity) API70TF, with a value of 6.59Kg.m-3, and it was followed by the treatment Alternating partial irrigation 80% of full irrigation for both stages (tuber filling and maturity) API80TF with a value of 6.34 Kg.m-3. And each of two treatments Alternating partial irrigation 80% and 70% of full irrigation for the two stages (tuber filling and maturity) achieved the highest values of tuber size with significant differences compared to the full irrigation treatment, with values (440, 418. 360 ml respectively).
Evaluating the olive oil quality of some phenotypes of Al-Khodeiri and Al-Doebly olive varieties in the Syrian coast
This research was conducted to study both percentage and quality of olive oil extracted from some phenotypes of Khodeiri and Doebly varieties. It included the estimation of oil percentage in fruits. The physical and chemical characteristics of extracted oil (free fatty acids, peroxide index and specific absorbance 232 - 270nm were also studied. The results showed that the acidity of samples is not identical, ranging between 0.5 - 2.25. The highest acidity was for Khodeiri in Al-Mushayrafa. All oil samples were classified as extra virgin except for that of Khodeiri in Al-Mushayrafa which was classified as normal olive oil. The peroxide index was between 2 - 5.5 meq/kg. Dakrawi phenotype in Al-Sakhaba recorded the lowest peroxide value versus the highest value for Khodeiri in Al-Mushayrafa. The olive oil percentage of studied samples ranged between low for the phenotypes Dakrawi and Menqiri in Al-Dirana, medium for the phenotypes Doebly and Al-Darmlali, and high for Khodeiri. The percentage of myristic acid ranged between 9.72 - 9.78%, palmitic acid 12.90 - 13.04%, palmitoleic acid 14.32 - 14.41%, citric acid 16.46 - 17.43%, oleic acid 17.32 - 19.26%, linoleic acid 19.05 - 21.38%, linolenic acid 21.35 - 22.66%, and arachidic acid 24.09 - 24.24%.
Morphological and microscopic study of some Wild Fungal Species of the Genus Agaricus Widespread in Syria
Located within the framework of Syria's biodiversity and ecology, this study is a comprehensive and new survey of Agaricus genus, which is related to Basidiomycetes, in many areas of western Homs rural villages. These areas differ in their altitude above sea level, prevailing soil, moisture, and heat. This study lasted two years (2021 and 2022), with samples collected through regular field tours depending on the growth and fruiting periods of these fungi. The fungal species studied are classified according to many global classification keys, which are mainly based on morphological and microscopic studies. Received: Accepted: Copyright: Damascus University- Syria, The authors retain the copyright under a CC BY- NC-SA The study revealed that studied areas are characterized by the existence of a distinctive and rich fungal diversity. The survey resulted in identifying 7 isolations all belonging to the Bivelares section and the Agaricus genus. The vast majority of these fungi grow in areas from sea level to an altitude (472-582 m) above sea level. The emergence of the vast majority of the studied species concentrated in months (November, December, January). This is the first time this genus has been studied morphologically and microscopically in these Syrian areas.