ISPEC Journal of Agricultural Sciences

Some Fermentation Characteristics of Silages Made with Sweet Sorghum Bagasse

Celal YÜCEL — 2024-03-26

There is a significant need for high-quality hay in our livestock industry. The search for providing alternative quality forage needed by livestock farming continues. The research was carried out to reveal the potential of silages made with sweet sorghum bagasse to be used as roughage. In the research, 21 different sweet sorghum (Sorghum bicolor var. saccharatum (L.) Mohlenbr.) varieties and lines were used as plant materials. Field trials were conducted under second crop conditions in Doğankent/Adana in 2016 and 2017 years. In the research, the plants were harvested to obtain ethanol in the period between the milk and dough formation dates of the grains in the panicle. Some important silage fermentation properties were determined by making silage from sap (bagasse) from which sap was taken. As a result of the research, according to two-year averages, the dry matter (DM) rates of the genotypes were 27.33-37.86%, the ash contents (AC) were 37.0-65.6 g kg^-1 DM, and the pH values were 3.019-3.341. In addition, it was determined that the contents of organic acids lactic acid (LA), acetic acid (AA), propionic acid (PA) and butyric acid (BA) varied between 21.80-46.44, 4.753-11.565, 0.0-2.596 and 0.155-1.513 g kg^-1 DM, respectively. According to the results of the research, it was determined that the silages obtained from the sap-taken stems of the sweet sorghum plant have the potential to be used as roughage in terms of fermentation properties. The use of sweet sorghum bagasse, grown as a second product in the Mediterranean region, as silage can be an alternative forage source.

Determination of Herbage Quality Characteristics in Some Trigonella Species in Meadow-Pasture and Natural Vegetation of the Southeastern Anatolia Region

Elif ÇETİK YEŞİLOVA — 2024-03-26

This study was conducted in May 2023 to determine the herbage quality characteristics of some Trigonella species (T. coerulescens, T. filipes, T. foenum graceum, T. mesopotamica, T. monantha, T. spicata, T. spruneriana and T. strangulata) in meadow-pasture and natural vegetation of Southeastern Anatolia Region. In the study, crude protein (HP) varied between 18.31-22.45%, acid detergent fiber (ADF) 14.09-24.09%, neutral detergent fiber (NDF) 30.33-37.18%, acid detergent protein (ADP) 0.31-0.41%, dry matter (DM) 90.63-92.98%, digestible dry matter (DDM) 70.14-77.93%, dry matter intake (DMI) 3.23-3.96%, relative feed value (RFV) 180.4-237.1, potassium (K) 0.41-0.87%, calcium (Ca) 1.73-2.17%, magnesium (Mg) 1.74-2.93%, phosphorus (P) 0.31-0.45%, Ca/P 4.40-5.88 and K/(Ca+Mg) 0.10-0.22 in Trigonella species. Among the species, T. spruneriana, T. monantha and T. foenum graceum gave the statisticallay highest values in terms of HP; T. spicata in terms of ADF; T. strangulata, T. spruneriana, T. spicata and T. monantha in terms of NDF; T. spicata in terms of DDM; T. spicata, T. mesopotamica, T. foenum graceum and T. filipes in terms of DMI; T. spicata and T. mesopotamica in terms of RFV. Among these species, T. spicata gave the highest values in terms of many traits examined (ADF, NDF, DDM, DMI and RFV). In addition, all examined species were in the prime group, which is the highest quality class in terms of herb quality standards.

The Effect of Salicylic Acid and Salt Stress on Seeder Development of Some Soya (Glycine max. L.) Cultivars

Gülşen KEREÇİN — 2024-03-26

In this study, soybean (Glycine max L.) plant, which has an important place in human nutrition, was evaluated as material. The aim of the research was to determine the tolerance level of soybean plant against salt stress as a result of salt and salicylic acid application at different doses to different soybean varieties and to observe the effect on seedling development. The study was organized in 2022 in the acclimatization room of the Department of Field Crops, Faculty of Agriculture, Şırnak University. The experiment was carried out according to the Random Plots Factorial Experimental Design with 3 replications. Three different soybean varieties (Arisoy, Asya and Gapsoy 16), salicylic acid dose (0, 0.5, 1.0 mM) and 4 different NaCl salt doses (0, 75, 150 and 225 mM) were used in the study. In the study, Soybean plant characteristics such as root length, stem length, root wet weight, stem wet weight, stem dry weight, stem dry weight, leaf area, leaf disc wet weight, leaf disc dry weight, plant height were examined. As a result of the research, it was determined that salt stress caused a decrease in root, stem dry and wet weights, stem length, root length and leaf area values. The negative effects of salt stress especially on plants were reduced by the effect of salicylic acid.

Determination of Herbage Yield and Quality of Some Italian Ryegrass Varieties in Sivas Ecological Conditions

İlker YÜCE — 2024-03-26

Italian ryegrass is a forage plant that can grow rapidly vegetatively, can take at least two cuts in suitable ecologies, and has a tall plant height. Italian ryegrass, an annual forage crop, is rich in minerals, protein and water-soluble carbohydrate content, good palatability, digestibility and metabolic energy value are quite high compared to herbage of medium pasture quality. Italian ryegrass is a plant that has the potential to be a solution to the roughage needs of farm animals in Turkey. In this context, the aim of this study is to determine the Italian ryegrass variety or varieties with high yield and quality suitable for Sivas ecology. Twenty-one Italian ryegrass varieties (Master, Quickston, Big Boss, Koga, Venüs, Braulio, Jivet, Medoacus, Excellent, Tornado, İlkadım, Caramba, Kartetra, Efe-82, Trinova, Hellen, Devis, Vallivert, Teanna, Rambo, Zeybek-19) were used as plant material in the experiment. Experiment was conducted at Sivas Science and Technology University, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Agricultural Ar&Ge Center trial area in 2022-2023 growing season. According to the data obtained, the differences between Italian ryegrass varieties were found to be statistically significant in terms of plant height, green and dry herbage yields. Plant height, green and dry herbage yields ranged between 115.0-130.7 cm, 1407-3240 kg da^-1 and 392-976 kg da^-1, respectively. In terms of quality parameters of varieties, differences were also significant. The values were 11.18-14.73% for crude protein rates, 6.57-12.43% for crude ash rates, 32.9-37.7% for ADF (Acid detergent fiber) rates, 61.6-65.4% for NDF (Neutral detergent fiber) rates, 59.55-62.76% for DMD (Digestible dry matter) rates, 1.84-1.95% for DMI (Dry matter intake) rates, and 84.76-94.42 for RFV (Relative feed value) values. Among the Italian ryegrass varieties used in the research, it was determined that Excellent variety performed well in terms of herbage yield, and İlkadım, Master and Kartetra varieties performed well in Sivas conditions in terms of herbage quality.

The Effect of Different Doses of Naphthalene Acetic Acid (NAA) Applications on Fiber Quality Parameters of Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)

Hasan HALİLOĞLU — 2024-03-26

This study aimed to assess the effect of Napthalene Acetic Acid (NAA) on fiber quality parameters of cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.). Field trials were carried out at the trial site of Arapoğlu Village in the Haliliye county of Şanlıurfa. A factorial randomized complete block design with three replications was employed. In the study, NAA applications were observed at the beginning of squaring (B.S.) stage (300, 600 and 900 g ha^-1), at the beginning of flowering (B.F.) stage (300, 600 and 900 g ha^-1) and at the flowering peak (F.P.) period (300, 600 and 900 g ha^-1). As a result of this study; It was concluded that the effect of NAA applications on fiber length and fiber strength was statistically significant but differed according to years and there was no stability in terms of these properties. There was no statistically significant effect of NAA applications on fiber maturity, fiber elongation, uniformity index, short fiber index, fiber reflectance and spinning consistency index.

Investigation of the Growth Response of Reed Ball (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.) to Salinity Stress (NaCl)

Fatih ALAY — 2024-03-26

This study, was carried out to determine the effect of different salt concentrations on plant growth by applying different salt concentrations to the plant Pop 11 (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.). The study was conducted as a pot trial under greenhouse conditions at the Black Sea Agricultural Research Institute in 2022. Doses of 0, 60, 120, 180, 240 mM NaCl were applied to the pot experiment, which was set up with 4 replications according to the randomized plot design. In this research, plant height (cm), fresh plant weight (g), dry plant weight (g), leaf blade width (cm), leaf blade length (cm), stem diameter (mm), leaf relative water content (%), Lipid peroxidation (nmol g^-1 FW), proline amount (µmol g^-1FW) and root length (cm) values were examined. When the examined results are evaluated; It was concluded that low doses of Na+ and Cl- ions (0 and 60 mM) may be beneficial to the plant, while increased doses may have negative effects. Moreover, in addition to considering the selected growth parameters of the reed ball plant, it was observed that the nutrient element content (Na+, K+, Ca+2, Mg+2 and Cl-) in the green parts of the plant also changed significantly. According to the correlation between Na and Cl and plant parameters, there is a negative significance (r:) between NaCl and plant length (BU), fresh plant weight (YBA), dry plant weight (KBA), leaf blade width (YAE) and pot root length (SKU). -0.78, 0.91, 0.91, 0.78 and 0.96) and a positive significant (r: 0.94) relationship was determined between the amount of proline.

The Effect of Microbial Fertilizer Application on Maize Grown in Different Locations: I. Yield and Yield Components

Fuatcan DAĞ — 2024-03-26

Biofertilizers play an important role in supporting plant nutrients required for sustainable agriculture and the economy, as well as growing healthy products and being environmentally friendly. This study was conducted to determine the effects of five different doses [0 (Control), 50, 100, 150 and 200 ml] of microbial fertilizer containing Azotobacter chrococcum and Azotobacter vinelandii bacteria on the yield and some yield components of two maize cultivars in Bilecik and Eskişehir locations. In the study, plant height, first ear height, ear length, ear diameter and kernel yield were examined. According to the applied microbial fertilizer dose, it was determined that there were significant differences in plant height, first ear height, ear length and kernel yield in the Bilecik location, and in plant height, first ear height, ear diameter and kernel yield in the Eskişehir location. According to the results of this research, the study had variations between plant height 249.00 (G₅) - 276.37 (G₃) cm, first ear height 71.90 (G₅) - 89.37 (G₃) cm, ear length 19.35 (G₅) - 20.37 (G₃) cm, ear diameter 51.23 (G₁) - 51.66 (G₃) mm and grain yield 1557.16 (G₅) - 1692.83 (G₄) kg da^-1 in the Bilecik location. In the Eskişehir location, varied from plant height 259.51 (G₁) to 279.98 (G₃) cm, first ear height 75.93 (G₅) to 91.90 (G₃) cm, ear length 20.42 (G₁) to 21.52 (G₂) cm, ear diameter 50.92 (G₁) to 52.35 (G₃) mm and kernel yield 1513.83 (G₁) to 1686.00 (G₄) kg da^-1. In both locations, the highest kernel yield was obtained from G₄ (200 ml da^-1) and G₃ (150 ml da^-1) application doses, respectively.

The Effect of Microbial Fertilizer Application on Maize Grown in Different Locations: II. Quality Traits

Fuatcan DAĞ — 2024-03-26

Maize, which is used for human food, animal feed and in various fields of industry, is an important crop that can be grown in many different environments. This study was carried out to determine the effect of microbial fertilizer doses [0 (Control), 50, 100, 150 and 200 ml/da] applied to two registered maize grain cultivars on some quality traits under Bilecik and Eskişehir conditions. The experiments were established in a split-plot experimental design with three replications, with cultivars in the main plots and microbial fertilizer doses in the sub-plots. In the study, thousand grain weight, hectoliter weight, ash content, fat content, protein content, starch content, acid detergent fiber (ADF), and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) values were determined. In Bilecik conditions, thousand grain weight, hectoliter weight, fat content and ADF traits showed statistically significant differences among the cultivars, while in Eskişehir conditions, the thousand grain weight, hectoliter weight and ADF traits showed statistically significant differences among the cultivars. In the study, the effect of microbial fertilizer doses on thousand grain weight, hectoliter weight and ADF value were found to be significant at both locations. According to the applied doses, in Bilecik locations, thousand grain weight, hectoliter weight, ash ratio, fat ratio, protein ratio, starch ratio, ADF value and NDF values were found between 494.76-510.90 g, 77.03-79.03 kg, 1.53-1.56%, 5.25-5.52%, 10.16-10.60%, 67.35-68.33%, 4.27-4.62% and 14.45-14.73%, respectively. Eskişehir locations, thousand grain weight, hectoliter weight, ash ratio, fat ratio, protein ratio, starch ratio, ADF value and NDF values were found between 474.26-502.81 g, 77.25-78.02 kg, 1.48-1.53%, 4.52-4.76%, 10.07-10.35%, 69.25-69.83%, 4.00-4.76% and 13.69-13.90 %, respectively.

Determination of Some Agricultural Characteristics of Some Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) Genotypes Suitable for Afşin Basin of Kahramanmaraş Province

İbrahim KILINÇ — 2024-03-26

This study was conducted in 2018 to determine the agricultural characteristics of high yield bean genotypes that can be grown in Afşin District of Kahramanmaraş Province, which is an important bean production basin and exhibits typical continental climate characteristics. A total of 70 different bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) genotypes were tested in the study. The experiment was organized according to the randomized complete block design with three replications. In the study, emergence time, plant height, first pod height, number of main branches per plant, number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod, number of seeds per plant and grain yield values were determined. According to the research results, statistically significant differences were found among bean genotypes in terms of all traits examined. According to the research results, the emergence time between 12.00-14.00 days, plant height between 37.00-113.33 cm, first pod height between 9.00-25.33 cm, number of main branches between 4.00-6.00, number of pods in the plant between 4.66-33.33, number of grains in the pod between 4.33-6.33, number of grains in the plant between 24.33-188.33 and grain yield between 78-751 kg da^-1 varied. The highest grain yield was obtained in Yakutiye genotype.

Performances of Some Sorghum Genotypes Under Eskişehir Ecological Conditions

Şule ERKOVAN — 2024-03-26

The research was conducted in the 2023 growing season as a second crop after the wheat harvest, with the aim of determining the yield characteristics of some sorghum genotypes that can be grown under the ecological conditions of Eskişehir. The experiment was established according to the randomized complete block design with three replications. The study examined the number of days to 50% flowering, plant height, number of tillers per plant, stem diameter, leaf ratio, stem ratio in the plant, dry matter ratio, and green forage yield. Significant differences were found among the lines and varieties for all the studied traits. According to the research results, the days to 50% flowering of different varieties and lines ranged from 72.0 to 87.7 days, plant heights from 122.7 to 315.0 cm, the average number of tillers per genotype was 2.6, stem diameter ranged from 7.9 to 18.3 mm, leaf ratios from 10.9% to 22.9%, stem ratio from 77.1% to 89.6%, dry matter ratios from 15.6% to 30.9%, and green forage yields from 2152.0 to 5614.1 kg da^-1. It is recommended to cultivate the Greengo and Erdurmuş varieties and the line number 12 in Eskişehir and similar ecological conditions in terms of green forage yield. However, more studies should be conducted, as single-year results do not always yield correct outcomes in agricultural production.

Thyme Sediments for Energy Storage Systems and Its Benefit Evaluations for Agricultural Economics

Ayça Nur ŞAHİN DEMİREL — 2024-03-26

In this study, the use of thyme residue as an electrode in energy storage systems was analyzed. The electrochemical analysis started by analyzing the CV in the ±0.5V range. However, due to low current values and misleading data, the measurement range was extended to ±1V and ±2V. Current plateaus of varying widths were observed in the ±0.5V and ±1V ranges at all scan rates. However, as the scan rates increased, redox peaks started to appear at the thyme sediment electrodes. At a scan rate of 200 mV/s, two different redox events were detected at 0.35 V and 1.4 V. Charge-discharge and power performance analyses were performed on capacitors made with thyme sediment electrodes. The results show that thyme sediment, an organic material, can store energy in capacitors and supercapacitors can be formed with a capacitance of about 101 F g^-1. As a result of the determination that thyme residue can be used as an alternative electrode material, evaluation analyzes were also made in terms of agricultural economy and it was concluded that this discovery could lead to significant economic developments for both the energy sector and agriculture.

Melatonin Receptor 1A (MTNR1A) Gene Polymorphism in Cross-Bred Hamdani Sheep: A Preliminary Study

Ali Osman TURGUT — 2024-03-26

Melatonin plays a key role in regulating several vital physiological processes, including the maturation and functioning of the reproductive system, pubertal development, seasonal reproduction, and adaptation. The activation of the melatonin hormone is facilitated by melatonin receptors. This study aimed to investigate melatonin receptor 1A (MTNR1A) gene polymorphism in cross-bred Hamdani sheep. A total of 102 cross-bred Hamdani ewes were used as animal material. DNA was extracted from whole blood. The 824 bp PCR products from the exon II region of the MTNR1A gene underwent analysis for restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) using the RsaI restriction enzyme. In the study, RR, Rr, and rr genotypes were detected for MTNR1A gene in cross-bred Hamdani sheep. Genotype frequencies for RR, Rr, rr were 0.69, 0.27, and 0.04, respectively. Allele frequencies were detected as 0.82 and 0.18 for R and r alleles, respectively. In conclusion, more comprehensive research investigating association between MTNR1A genotypes and reproductive traits should be carried out in cross-bred Hamdani sheep.

Biochar and Rhizobium Applications: A Promising Synergy for Improved Soybean Growth and Rhizosphere Microbial Activities

Ali SARIOĞLU — 2024-03-26

This study aimed to examine the effects of biochar application and rhizobium inoculation on soybean growth and specific rhizosphere soil microbial activities. Biochar, extensively tested over the past two decades, enhances soil physical, chemical, and biological properties, thereby positively contributing to agricultural yield. Leguminous plants like soybeans exhibit improved growth by reducing the use of mineral fertilizers through rhizobial inoculation. It is an important finding that the applications provided an approximately 100% increase in plant fresh weight. In this study, the utilized biochar served as an alternative organic material, not only regulating soil properties but also enhancing rhizobial activity. Conducted as a greenhouse experiment with the soils of Şanlıurfa, this research involved dual factor experiments with rhizobium applications and two doses of biochar (1%-1.5%) applications. According to the overall average results of the study, it was determined that rhizobium and biochar applications increased plant growth and nodule formation. While nodules did not form in samples without bacterial inoculation, this number increased to 13-19 with vaccination and applications.The determined values of CO₂ produce, DHA enzyme activity, and MBC content in the soil of the plant root zone increased with rhizobium inoculations and biochar applications. It was seen by correlation analysis that bacterial inoculation increased MBC contents in the soil, increased CO₂ content, and increased CO₂ increased total N, and was found to be significant.

Changes in Some Soil Compaction Indicators in A Field Treated with Leonardite and Chicken Manure

Zekeriya KARA — 2024-03-26

Soil compaction is one of the most serious land degradation limiting agricultural productivity. Compaction is influenced by soil properties such as soil moisture and organic matter content, clay mineralogy and texture, and external factors determined by field traffic. In this study, the changes in soil organic matter content (SOM), bulk density (BD), penetration resistance (PR) and shear strength (SS) properties were investigated using different doses of leonardite and chicken manure. The study was conducted under field conditions and according to the randomized plots experimental design and lasted for about 8 months. At the end of the experiment, samples were taken from each plot and necessary analyses were performed. According to the results obtained, SOM, BD, PR and SS values of chicken manure treated plots varied between 1.94-2.55%, 1.38-1.33 g cm^-³, 1.45-1.00 MPa and 50.22-42.88 kPa, respectively. SOM, BD, PR and SS values of leonardite treated plots varied between 1.84-2.37%, 1.39-1.35 g cm^-³, 1.52-1.17 MPa and 51.18-41.01 kPa, respectively. As a result, both leonardite and chicken manure increased SOM and decreased BD, PR and SS parameters compared to the control. These changes in soil variables were statistically significant (P< 0.05). When a comparison was made between organic amendments, it was observed that in general chicken manure had a more positive effect on soil variables. This was attributed to the higher organic matter content of chicken manure compared to leonardite.

Effect of Different Treated Wastewater Levels on Tomato Yield and Some Quality Criteria

Gülperin DURSUN — 2024-03-26

This study was conducted to examine the effects of different treated wastewater levels on the fruit yield and quality parameters of tomato plants. The research was carried out in Bilecik ecological conditions in the 2023 growing season. The study, which was conducted in three replications in accordance with the randomized plot design, used five different dilutions (0, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%) of treated wastewater levels. At the end of the study, the plant's marketable fruit yield, fruit weight, fruit length, fruit firmness, pH, water soluble dry matter (WSS) and irrigation water use efficiency were analyzed. The results obtained showed that treated wastewater had positive effects on both fruit yield and quality. The highest fruit yield and IWUE values were obtained from the parcel to which 50% treated wastewater was applied (AAS50), as 67.92 t ha^-1 and 15.36 kg m^-3, respectively. The highest single fruit weight (101.35 g), fruit length (61.88 mm) and water soluble dry matter (5.43) values were obtained when 50% treated wastewater was applied, the highest fruit weight, (64.61 mm) and pH (4.57) values were obtained when 25% treated wastewater was applied and fruit firmness (1.35 kg cm^-2) was obtained from the control subject. Although treated wastewater had an encouraging effect on efficiency and quality, it was determined that it had negative effects on both efficiency and quality when the wastewater level exceeded 75%.

The Changes in Coleoptile Length and Root System Architecture During Wheat Polyploidization

Uğur SESİZ — 2024-03-26

Polyploidy, the doubling of chromosomes, has significantly shaped the evolution of flowering plants, including wheat. Yet, its impact on crucial traits like coleoptile length and root development remains unclear. This study compared these traits in wheat varieties with different ploidy levels, focusing on coleoptile length and root system diversity. Five genotypes/cultivars were used for each of einkorn (Triticum monococcum), durum (landraces and cultivars, Triticum durum and Triticum turgidum), and bread wheat (Triticum aestivum). The coleoptile length and root morphological measurement procedures were conducted using a blotter-paper germination protocol. The experiment was designed according to a completely randomized design with three replications. The results revealed that domestication and selection pressures have influenced wheat's coleoptile length and certain root system characteristics. Interestingly, polyploidy appears to have a mixed bag of effects. It enhances root angle and seminal root numbers. However, total root length and coleoptile length are negatively affected. Importantly, the longest root remains unaffected. This divergence in root traits highlights the complex interplay between polyploidy and plant morphology. Understanding these trade-offs is crucial for plant breeders. To combine polyploidy's desirable robustness with optimal root systems, wild relatives and modern wheat varieties need to be strategically integrated into breeding programs. This will allow for the recovery of valuable traits that separated during wheat's evolutionary journey.

Investigation of the Sufficiency of Open and Green Spaces in Bingol City

Ahmet CAF — 2024-03-26

The increase in urban population has led to the intensification of urbanization, bringing forth various problems. Despite the growing need for green spaces in the face of urban expansion, these areas remain limited within the city. Efforts towards open green spaces, which have numerous economic, ecological, and social benefits, are expanding, continuing to be integrated into urbanization policies. The adequacy of open green spaces in meeting the needs of city dwellers depends on their accessibility, sufficient quantity, and size. In this context, the study focuses on the Central district of Bingol province, investigating the sufficiency of open green spaces. The city, divided by the Bingol River, consists of two parts: north and south. While the historical center is located in the south, the northern part has developed in subsequent periods. Currently, due to planned growth in the north, the distribution and accessibility distances of open green spaces are more advanced. Proposed planning initiatives support this situation. A comprehensive approach to the distribution of open green spaces throughout the city is needed, and efforts should be made to preserve existing green areas.

Effect of Sewage Sludge Applications on Some Micronutrient Elements in Soil

Erhan GEZER — 2024-03-26

This study was carried out in Tekirdağ province to determine the effects of application of sewage sludge in varying amounts (2, 4, 8 tons/da) on some microelements (Cu, Fe, Mn and Zn) of the Thrace Regions soils. Although microelements are present in trace amounts in the soil, they cause major productivity losses under deficiency conditions. The study was carried out with 3 replications according to the randomized blocks divided plots experimental design. As a result of the application of sewage sludge to the soil, there was an increase in the content of available copper, iron and zinc, and this was found to be statistically significant (p <0.01). The available Fe content of the soils to which sewage sludge was applied increased from "medium" level to "excess" level, and the available Zn content increased from "insufficient" level to "sufficient" level. A statistically significant (p<0.01) decrease was observed in the available Mn content of the soil, and its content in the soil decreased from "sufficient" to "less" level. It has been observed that the application of sewage sludge on the soil of the Thrace Region has a positive effect on the soil micro-plant nutrient element contents. Considering that intensive agricultural practices continue in the region, it has become clear that sewage sludge applications are a very important method for the sustainability of agricultural activities.

Silybum marianum (L.) Gaertn'den Silymarin Ekstraksiyon Koşullarının Optimizasyonu ve Miktar Tayini için HPLC Yönteminin Geliştirilmesi

Erten AKBEL — 2024-03-26

Silybum marianum (milk thistle) and its derivatives are used in the treatment of many diseases, especially liver diseases. In this study, extraction variables required for the industrial process of Silybum marianum (L.) Gaertner, and conditions for silymarin extraction were optimized using RSM (Response surface methodology). For this purpose, the fixed oil content was determined to be approximately 27% in the extraction using hexane in a Soxhlet apparatus with fruits of certain particle size. An HPLC technique was devised and approved to determine the amount of silymarin in the extract. The HPLC method's linearity was assessed using solutions containing 5 to 30 µg/ml silymarin. A selective, rapid, accurate, precise chromatographic method was was devised and approved to determine the amount of silymarin in plants. Using an Agilent Extend C18 column (250 x 4.6 mm, 5 µm) column, chromatographic separation was carried out. Ultrapure water containing 0.1% formic acid and acetonitrile (67/33, v/v) were used as mobile phase at a flow rate of 1.0 ml min-1. Eluents were detected at 288 nm using a UV detector. The results showed that the liquid chromatographic method was linear, precise, accurate, robust, with RSD values below 1.00% and recovery percentage within the standard limits (99-101%). The extracted silymarin yield was calculated to be 0.237% under finest settings.

The Effect on Silage Quality of Hops at Different Rates Added to Silage Maize

İlknur YILDIRIM — 2024-03-26

In this study, it was aimed to determine on silage quality of silage maize (Zea mays L.) and "SM" hops (Humulus lupulus L.) “H” mixtures (100+0%, 90+10%, 80+20%, 70+30%, 60+40%, 50+50%, 40+60%, 30+70%, 20+80%, 10+90% and 0%+100) on silage quality. Silage maize was harvested at the dough stage. Hops were obtained from farmers' land and post-harvest residues were used. Harvested plants were chopped to size 2 cm, and as three replications ensiled in 2 kg vacuum bags as sole and mixture. Then, the samples were left to fermentation at 25±2 °C for 45 days. In silage samples; pH crude protein ratio (CP), dry matter ratio (DM), acid detergent insoluble fiber (ADF), neutral detergent insoluble fiber (NDF), potassium (K), phosphorus (P), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg) lactic acid (LA), acetic acid (AA), condensed tannin (KT), total flavonoid (TF), total phenolic (TP) and radical scavenging activity (DPPH) contents were determined. The CP of treatments was between 9.76-18.77%. The highest LA was in pure silage maize (3.71%) and 90SM+10%H (3.44%), and the lowest was in pure hops (1.95%) silages. pH and DM values of the silages varied between 3.84-4.81 and 26.22-34.74%, respectively. Nutrient and secondary metabolite contents of the silages were sufficient. In results; it has been determined that adding 10% hops to silage corn silage will be sufficient in terms of silage quality.

Determining the Energy Efficiency in Cotton Production: A Case of Adana Province

Ali BOLAT — 2024-03-26

This study has been conducted to calculate the energy efficiency of cotton production held under the conditions of Adana/Turkey in 2020 and 2021. Basic data such as the economic life, work success, fuel and oil consumption and weights of the tools-machines used in the study as well as the fertilizer and seed amounts were obtained from the current measurements, other studies, various sources and catalogues. The study has concluded that the highest rate among the energy equivalents of the inputs used in cotton production belonged to the fertilizer energy input with 44.43%. This rate was followed by fuel-oil energy input with 23.68%. In cotton production, the energy output/input ratio years has been calculated as 2.33 and 2.26, the specific energy value as 5.06 MJ kg^-1 and 5.21 MJ kg^-1, the energy productivity value as 0.20 kg MJ^-1 and 0.19 kg MJ^-1, and the net energy efficiency as 36082.21 MJ ha^-1and 34194.21 MJ ha^-1.

Environmental Awareness and Attitudes of University Students: The Case of Türkiye

Veysi ACIBUCA — 2024-03-26

In recent years, environmental problems have been a major concern all over the world and are a threat to the quality of life of societies. Considering that most environmental problems are caused by people's lifestyles, values and attitudes, an understanding of education that changes the way today's people view nature and shapes their values and attitudes is essential to preventing environmental problems. Conducting studies to increase the level of awareness and consciousness of individuals about the environment is one of the main ways to eliminate these problems and ensure environmental sustainability. This study was conducted in Türkiye to measure the environmental awareness and knowledge of university students living in various provinces. In this study, 403 university students living in different provinces in Türkiye were interviewed. According to the results, it was found that the average age of the individuals was 22 years and about three-fourths of them had knowledge about environmental problems, but they thought that the given information about the environment was insufficient. According to these findings, people generally have environmental awareness and ideas about consumption and natural resources. However, it was found that there was a high demand for participation in environmental training at universities. Students emphasized that the most important source of information on environmental issues was the internet. In addition, a significant number of students believed that environmental training at universities should be part of the curriculum. It is believed that training provided to young people will raise the awareness of individuals and be effective for their families and friends. Environmental education is central to raising environmental awareness in individuals and raising awareness about environmental protection. It is thought that education given to individuals as a group will have an easier effect on behavior change. Gathering individuals from different provinces under one roof at universities will facilitate intercultural interaction and pave the way for environmental sustainability. Changes in the behavior of individuals will have a significant impact on future generations. Therefore, it is hoped that the results obtained in this study will contribute to environmental and climate change policies.

Effect of Aronia melanocarpa (Michaux) Elliott Leaf Extract on Different Life Stages of Trichogramma evanescens (Westwood, 1833) (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae)

Fahriye SÜMER ERCAN — 2024-03-26

Demonstrating the effectiveness of botanical extracts and essential oils on insect pests has become one of the alternatives to control methods. In this respect, botanical pesticides are a curicial resource but need to have minimal impact on natural enemies. The objective of this study is to assess the impact of Aronia melanocarpa leaf extract on the biological characteristics of different life stages of Trichogramma evanescens. Parasitized Ephestia kuehniella egg cards were immersed in A. melanocarpa leaf extract solutions (0.1%, 0.5% and 1%) and dH₂O (control) for 5 seconds at 24 hours, 48 hours, 72 hours and 192 hours after parasitism, corresponding to the egg, larvae, prepupal and pupal stages of T. evanescens, respectively. The parasitization, emergence and sex ratio of T. evanescens were evaluated. The prepupal stage of parasitoit was more susceptable than other stages. Egg and pupal stages were more resistant than larvae and prepupal stages (Egg LC₅₀: 0,772%, Pupa LC₅₀: 0,412% respectively). This is the first study on the insecticidal effects of A. melanocarpa leaf extract on egg parasitoid T. evanescens. The leaf extract of A. melanocarpa completely at prevented adult emergence at a dose of 1% in the prepupal stage.

Genome-Wide Characterization of Expansin Gene Family in Cannabis sativa

Hülya SİPAHİ — 2024-03-26

Expansins loose plant cell walls and play diverse roles in plant growth and development, germination, fruit ripening and softening, fiber development, and biotic/abiotic stress response, especially adaptation to the osmotic and oxidative stresses caused by drought stress. In this study, genome-wide analysis of the expansin gene family in Cannabis sativa was performed for the first time. A total of 29 expansin genes were found in the C. sativa genome. These genes were classified into four subfamilies, including 18 CsEXPAs, 5 CsEXPBs, 1 CsEXLAs, and 5 CsEXLBs family members. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the cannabis, Arabidopsis and rice expansins were divided into ten subgroups. 29 cannabis expansin genes were unevenly distributed among nine cannabis chromosomes. Most expansin genes have 3 exons while the number of introns and exons among expansin genes ranged from 1 to 4 and from 2 to 5, respectively. The promoter regions of 29 cannabis expansin genes contained diverse cis-elements that are involved in the development, environmental stress, hormones, and light responsiveness. This initial study is a useful resource for further research on the potential roles of expansin in fiber development, plant growth and development, and environmental stress response.

Effect of Plant Growth Regulators on Different Explants and Explant Size of Yellow Everlasting (Helichrysum pallasii Sprengel Ledeb.) Under in vitro Conditions

Emine YURTERİ — 2024-03-26

In this study, different explants (leaf, stem and root) and explant size (0.5, 1, 1.5 and 2 cm) of yellow everlasting, Helichrysum pallasii (Sprengel) Ledeb., cultured under in vitro conditions including kinetin, 2,4-D, TDZ and zeatin concentrations. Concentrations of 0.5 mgl⁻¹ kinetin + 0.5 mgl⁻¹ 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) and 1mgl⁻¹ kinetin (KIN) + 1 mgl⁻¹ 2,4-D were used for callus induction. Concentrations of 1 mgl⁻¹ thidiazuron (TDZ) and 1 mgl⁻¹ thidiazuron (TDZ) + 0.1 mgl⁻¹ zeatin (ZEA) were used for inducing shoot regeneration. MS medium without any plant grow regulators was preferred as control group. Rooting medium was preferred 1 mgl⁻¹ NAA. In callus regeneration, highest regeneration rates were found as respectively 86.6%, 53.3% and 35.5% from root, stem and leaf explants with 1 cm explant length while the lowest rate (4.4%) found in control group from leaf explant with 2 cm explant length. It was obtained from the medium containing the highest shoot regeneration and from root (24.6%), stem (20.6%) and leaf (16%) explants with an explant length of 1 cm. Similarly, rooting rate from leaf, root and stem explants were found as respectively 43.8%, 32.3% and 21.9% with the 1 cm explant length obtained from 1 mgl⁻¹ TDZ + 0.1 mgl⁻¹ ZEA medium. In conclusion, 1 cm of explant length produced the highest regeneration rate in all source of explants. Also, 1 mgl⁻¹ TDZ combined with 0.1 mgl⁻¹ ZEA were more effective than 1 mgl⁻¹ TDZ treatment alone in shoot regeneration.