ISPEC Journal of Agricultural Sciences

Chemical Composition of the Essential Oil from Different Plant Parts of Two Important Salvia Species Cultivated in Semi Arid Environment

Gizem KAMÇI, Özlem TONÇER — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0200

This study investigated the essential oil yield and chemical composition of different plant parts (leaf, flower and herbage) of Salvia officinalis L. and Salvia triloba cultivated under semi-arid conditions in Southeastern Türkiye. Plant material was obtained from the collection garden of Dicle University, Faculty of Agriculture. Essential oils were extracted by hydrodistillation using a Clevenger-type apparatus and analyzed by GC–mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Essential oil yield ranged between 1.00–1.68%, with the highest values recorded in flowers (1.68% in S. officinalis and 1.50% in S. triloba). Sixteen constituents (>1% GC area), representing 95.55–99.18% of the total oil, were identified. Monoterpenes were the dominant class (72.08–90.67%), while sesquiterpenes ranged between 8.51–26.74%. The main components of S. triloba were 1,8-cineole (up to 54.05%), camphor (17.66%) and β-pinene (14.44%), whereas S. officinalis were determined as the main components by α-thujone (31.98%), β-thujone (14.73%), 1,8-cineole (20.13%) and camphor (14.38%). Significant plant part–dependent variation was observed in essential oil composition. GGE biplot analysis explained 92.15% of total variation, confirming distinct clustering according to species and plant parts. It was determined that essential oil components varied depending on the species and harvested plant parts.

Estimation of Heritability and Permanent Environmental Effects of Egg Traits in the Blue-Breasted Quail (Synoicus chinensis)

Arzu ÜÇTEPE, Antonios KOMINAKIS — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0200

The blue-breasted quail (Synoicus chinensis), owing to its small body size and rapid reproductive cycle, represents a suitable material for the genetic analysis of egg traits. Egg weight, length, width, and other traits derived from these measurements are of critical importance for both embryonic development and the success of genetic improvement programs. This study aimed to estimate heritability and permanent environmental effects for measured and derived egg traits in blue-breasted quail. A total of 6,602 individual records of egg weight, length, and width were collected from 104 female quails between 49 and 402 days of age. Derived traits included shape index, volume, surface area, density, and surface-volume index. Additive genetic and permanent environmental variance components related to egg traits were estimated, and the effects of generation, incubation group, year, month, and age were taken into account in the analyses. Heritability estimates (h²) were high for the surface–volume index (0.54) and density (0.47), moderate for weight (0.25), width (0.26), and volume (0.24), and low for length (0.15) and lowest for shape index (0.08). The variance ratio of permanent environmental effects (pe²) to total phenotypic variance varied between 0.23 and 0.43, reaching its maximum for the surface–volume index (0.43) and density (0.38). Partial correlation analysis among the various parameters revealed strong positive relationships between egg weight and length (r=0.75), width (r=0.85), volume (r=0.93), and surface area (r=0.93), whereas a strong negative relationship between the shape index and surface–volume index was identified (r = −0.99). These findings have important implications for expected selection efficiency and, when validated in larger datasets, may substantially enhance the reliability and practical applicability of breeding programs in the species.

Effects of Building Debris and Waste Dumping Areas on Soil Nutrient Contents in Agricultural Areas in Islahiye and Nurdağı After Hatay and Kahramanmaraş Earthquakes

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0200

Earthquakes on February 6 and February 20, 2023, in Kahramanmaraş and Hatay caused significant loss of life and property in Türkiye. The effects of building debris and waste dumping areas (DWDA) that occurred after earthquakes are an important question mark on agricultural lands. This study aims to investigate the nutrient contents of the agricultural areas in Islahiye and Nurdağı, Gaziantep province, where large amounts of building debris and waste deposited after the earthquakes. A total of 53 surface (0-30 cm) soil samples were taken from agricultural lands in around DWDAs, at distances of 0 m, 500 m, 1000 m, and 2000 m. Soil samples were measured for pH, inorganic carbonate (IC), organic matter (SOM), soil texture, available phosphorus (P_av), calcium (Ca_av), potassium (K_av), magnesium (Mg_av), extractable copper (Cu_ex), iron (Fe_ex), manganese (Mn_ex), and zinc (Zn_ex). Significant differences (p<0.05) were found in K_av, Ca_av, Mg_av, Cu_ex, Fe_ex, and Mn_ex of agricultural soils around DWDAs. On the other hand, no significant differences were noted in the nutrient contents (except Fe_ex and Mn_ex) at different distances from the DWDAs (p>0.05). Spatial distribution maps revealed that the distributions of nutrients were heterogenous. Correlation analyses indicated that sources of nutrient could be lithogenic processes and agricultural practices. The results of this study showed that although DWDAs barely contribute to plant nutrients in soil to a level that would affect agricultural productivity, it is necessary to monitor this unusual source of pollution due to risks it may pose to natural and agricultural soil health and to healthy food production in the future.

Factors Affecting the Satisfaction Levels of Students in Horticulture Departments of Ege University Faculty of Agriculture and Azerbaijan State Agricultural University

Murat BOYACI, Gölgen Bahar ÖZTEKİN , Allahverdi SEYIDOV, Mehbube HASANOVA — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0200

In 2021, a dual degree programme was started between the Ege University Faculty of Agriculture (EUFA) (İzmir, Türkiye) and Azerbaijan State Agricultural University (ASAU) (Ganja, Azerbaijan). This study aimed to evaluate the general satisfaction level of students in the Horticulture Departments of the two universities. The study material consists of data collected through a survey of 181 students of Horticulture at ASAU and horticulture at EUFA. The study was conducted as a complete count sampling, and participation was voluntary. 76% of the total 238 students completed the questionnaire. The survey studies were conducted between November and December 2024 in Ganja (Azerbaijan) and İzmir (Türkiye). Chi-square test, t test, and logistic regression analysis were used for data analysis. Within the scope of the dual degree program, the EUFA model has brought about positive changes in education and training at ASAU and has also become attractive for students. 85.1% of the students chose the department willingly. The percentage of students who choose the department willingly is high at ASAU and among male students. Those who choose willingly want to work in the agricultural sector and believe that they will receive a better education than at other universities. In Horticultural Department in ASAU, students' socialisation behaviours, such as communicating with their friends, knowing and participating in university events, increase their satisfaction. Satisfaction increases with the desire to specialize in agriculture, the way courses are taught, the frequency of communication with lecturers, and positive opinions about course content, and decreases with the desire to work abroad.

Gross Profit Analysis of Peony (Paeonia) Cultivation

Zuhal KARAKAYACI, Sebahattin TUNÇ — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0200

This study examined the economic feasibility of cultivating peonies, which are grown in various regions of Türkiye, particularly in Karaman. The peony plant is an important alternative in agricultural production due to its low land requirements, resilience to climate change and high added value. The study employed a full enumeration method and conducted surveys with 19 peony producers across Turkey. Findings on peony production obtained from producers revealed that, due to high establishment costs, peony production generates a negative net income of -633,563 TL da^-1in the first year, but begins to provide returns from the second year onwards. A rapid increase in yield was especially observed from the third year onwards, with net income ranging between 1.2–1.6 million TL da^-1in years three to five, and between 1.95–2.32 million TL da^-1in years six to ten. On average, over the period from the second to tenth year, producers achieved a net return of around 1.74 million TL da^-1. While most producers were satisfied with current market conditions, the low level of exports emphasised the need for strategic planning to enter international markets. In conclusion, despite the high initial cost of establishing a peony farm, it is a production model that provides short-term return on investment and high long-term profitability. Increasing technical training and promoting contract farming models are projected to significantly contribute to economic and environmental sustainability of peony cultivation.

Peanut at Different Intra-Row Distances in Eastern Mediterranean Main and Second Crop Conditions

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0200

This research was carried out in Eastern Mediterranean region of Türkiye in main and second crop field conditions to determine the appropriate plant density in peanut cultivation at 70 cm inter-row distances. For this aim, phenological, yield and traits were determined at six different intra-row spacings (5 cm, 10 cm, 15 cm, 20 cm, 25 cm and 30 cm) fixed at 70 cm inter-row distance in the study for two seasons (2020 and 2021). Under main crop conditions, highest fruit yield was at 5 cm and 10 cm (6034 and 5790 kg ha^-1), oil yield at 5 cm and 10 cm (2913 and 2760 kg ha^-1), protein yield at 5 cm and 10 cm (1615 and 1540 kg ha^-1). Under second crop conditions, highest fruit yield was at 5 cm (5566 kg ha^-1), oil yield was at 5 cm and 10 cm (2565 and 2509 kg ha^-1), protein yield was at 5 cm (1457 kg ha^-1). As a result of the study, in Osmaniye conditions, 5 cm intra-row spacing was found to be superior at 70 cm inter-row distance cultivation with the NC-7 variety (the most widely used variety in the region) to obtain higher fruit yields, oil yields, and protein yields.

Physicochemical and Microbiological Properties of A Traditional Turkish Cheese (Kirli Hanım Peyniri)

Songül ŞAHİN ERCAN — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0200

This study investigates a traditional Turkish dairy product known as ‘Kirli Hanım Peyniri (KHC)’, focusing on its physicochemical, microbiological, biogenic amine content and sensory properties over a 90-day storage period. During storage, pH decreased to a minimum of 5.02, while TBARS levels remained consistently low (<1 mg kg^-1). Total mesophilic aerobic bacteria increased from 5.90 to 6.87 log CFU g^-1 and lactic acid bacteria from 5.17 to 6.30 log CFU g^-1. Yeasts, mold and coliforms were not detected throughout the storage. Biogenic amines, including histamine (2.4-5.8 mg kg^-1) and tyramine (10.2-32.7 mg kg^-1), increased but remained below the recommended safety thresholds for human consumption (e.g., histamine <50 mg kg^-1; tyramine <100–800 mg kg^-1, depending on sensitivity). Sensory analysis showed improved color, appearance and flavor, but increased saltiness and hardness. These results suggest that while maintaining safety and consumer acceptability, KHC undergoes a favorable compositional and sensory change during storage.

Evaluation of Irrigation Water Quality and Agricultural Suitability of Kuzgun Dam Water

Hasan ER — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0200

The aim of this study is to evaluate the irrigation water quality of Kuzgun Dam, which supplies water to the agricultural lands of Daphan Plain, located in Erzurum Province, Türkiye. Water samples were collected from seven different locations within the dam reservoir in July 2025, during the irrigation season. The samples were analyzed for pH, electrical conductivity (EC), calcium (Ca²⁺), magnesium (Mg²⁺), sodium (Na⁺), potassium (K⁺), carbonate (CO₃²⁻), bicarbonate (HCO₃⁻), chloride (Cl⁻), and sulfate (SO₄²⁻) contents. Additionally, key irrigation water quality indices such as sodium adsorption ratio (SAR), residual sodium carbonate (RSC), and sodium percentage (Na%) were calculated. The analytical results revealed that the values ranged between pH 7.08–7.76, EC 0.03–0.311 dS m^-1, Na⁺ 0.129–0.297 meq l^-1, Mg²⁺ 0.071–0.331 meq l^-1, K⁺ 0.028–0.075 meq l^-1, Ca²⁺ 0.025–0.432 meq l^-1, SO₄²⁻ 0.09–0.12 meq l^-1, HCO₃⁻ 0.22–0.75 meq l^-1, and Cl⁻ 0.44–0.52 meq l^-1, SAR: 0.45–0.75, RSC: 0.02–0.45 meq l^-1, and Na%: 28–52%. Heavy metal analyses (Cu, Mn, Zn, Pb, Cd, Cr, Fe, and Ni) indicated that all concentrations were below detectable limits. Overall, the findings demonstrate that the irrigation water from Kuzgun Dam is within acceptable standards for agricultural use and does not indicate a threat in terms of salinity, sodicity, or heavy metal contamination.

The Relationship Between Uterine Echotexture and Oxidative Stress Markers in Early Pregnancy in Sheep

Ali Ekber TEKDAL, İbrahim KÜÇÜKASLAN — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0200

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are highly reactive forms of molecular oxygen produced during normal metabolic processes, particularly within the mitochondrial matrix. Some of the most biologically important ROS include superoxide anion, hydroxyl radical, nitric oxide, and peroxynitrite. Protecting the uterus and embryo from oxidative stress associated with ROS products throughout pregnancy plays a key role in the formation and healthy maintenance of pregnancy. The aim of the presented study is to observe the changes in malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase, which are markers of oxidative stress during pregnancy, in the embryonic development process and to reveal their relationships with uterine echotexture. The study was conducted at the Dicle University Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Application and Research Farm. Clinically and reproductively healthy ewes with good body condition and at least one previous birth were included in the study. When the findings obtained in the study were evaluated, no significant difference was found between the groups in terms of oxidative stress markers, and it was determined that high values of Malondialdehyde (MDA), the final product of lipid peroxidation, were obtained in pregnant ewes on the 8th day when hatching occurred. The results indicate that oxidative stress markers, specifically glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and MDA, may be potential indicators for evaluating uterine ecotextural alterations in sheep during the early stages of pregnancy.

Microalgae Based Priming Applications on Germination Characteristics of Celery Onion and Pepper Seeds Under Salt Stress

Aslıhan BOZDAĞ, Mehmet Kadri BOZOKALFA — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0200

This study, designed to seek a sustainable solution to the growing salinity problem caused by global climate change, the potential of microalgae priming to mitigate salt stress was investigated in vegetable species. In the experiment, the effects of different microalgae (Spirulina platensis) based priming doses (0, 5, 10, 20 mg L⁻¹) applied using the aerated column technique on the germination performance of celery, onion, and pepper seeds under salt stress (0, 2.5, 5, 10, 15 dS m⁻¹) were investigated. In order to evaluate the effect of priming on germination performance; germination rate, mean germination time and homogeneity coefficient were examined. Results showed that S. platensis based priming treatments on salt stress were found to be statistically significant on germination properties such as germination rate, average germination time, and uniformity coefficient. The data obtained revealed that the effectiveness of microalgae applications varied depending on the species, the amount of microalgae, and the salt concentration in the environment. Celery seeds showed a positive response to microalgae-primed germination characteristics at all salt levels, thereby significantly tolerating the adverse effects caused by salt stress. It was determined that a 5 mg L⁻¹ dose of microalgae applied to pepper seeds positively affected the germination time and increased germination uniformity under environmental conditions with high salt concentration (15 dS m⁻¹). In contrast, the application of microalgae did not have a sufficient effect on preserving the germination characteristics of onion seeds, which are among vegetable species with high salt sensitivity; an increase in salt concentration led to a negative impact on germination characteristics. The results demonstrated that S. platensis applications significantly improved germination performance of pepper and celery seeds under salt stress conditions

Soil Nutrient Status and Fertility Assessment of Rice Cultivation Areas in Keşan, Türkiye

Yusuf SOLMAZ — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0200

Soil fertility is a critical factor influencing rice productivity, and understanding nutrient interactions is essential for effective management in agriculture. This study aimed to evaluate the fertility status and nutrient balance of rice-growing soils in Keşan by analyzing key macro- and micronutrient properties. Fifteen soil samples were collected from major cultivation areas at a depth of 0-30 cm and analyzed for pH, EC, CaCO₃, organic matter, N, P, K, Ca-Mg, and DTPA-extractable micronutrients using standard laboratory methods. Descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and PCA were performed using SPSS and Python. The soils were found to be slightly alkaline and calcareous, with high Ca-Mg contributing to strong buffering capacity but reducing Mn and Zn solubility. Organic matter levels were low, explaining its strong association with N, P, K, and micronutrients. Macronutrients showed considerable variability, with consistently low nitrogen and pH-sensitive phosphorus availability. Correlation and PCA results revealed two dominant soil-quality axes: one driven by organic matter and macronutrient enrichment, and another related to alkalinity and carbonate effects on micronutrients. Overall, the findings indicate that although the soils provide a stable chemical environment, nutrient limitations-particularly low OM, N deficiency, and reduced Mn-Zn availability necessitate improved fertilization practices and targeted soil management to sustain rice productivity in Keşan.

Agricultural Life Cycle Assessment of Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) Cultivation in Türkiye

Gizem AYVA, Ömer EREN — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0200

Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) is regarded as an important crop in Turkish agriculture that needs to be investigated to produce sustainable agricultural products. In this study, the environmental emissions of saffron cultivation and their environmental effects were determined for saffron production. The environmental effects of saffron production were assessed using agricultural life cycle assessment. Environmental effect categories were obtained using the CML-IA Baseline method. Original SimaPro 8 software was used to calculate the environmental effects. The results showed that the average stigma yield of saffron was 4.81 kg ha⁻¹. According to the agricultural life cycle impact assessment of saffron production, environmental effects caused marine aquatic toxicity by 75.77%, while local effects accounted for 86.79% in its agricultural life cycle interpretation. Also, the global warming (climate change) value was calculated as 63.52 kg CO_2-eq kg saffron⁻¹ (305.53 kg CO_2-eqha⁻¹).

Studying the Antimicrobial Effects of Silver Nanoparticles (AgNPs) Derived from the Agricultural Byproduct of Rhus coriaria L. (Sumac)

Ayşe BARAN, Esra BİLİCİ — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0200

The synthesis of nanoparticles using green methods is attracting increasing interest due to its wide range of applicationsThis research used an extract from the leaves, which are agricultural waste parts after the of Rhus coriaria L. fruit harvest to create silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Analyses utilising X-ray diffraction diffractometry (XRD), UV-visible spectrophotometer (UV-vis.), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used to characterise AgNPs. Results showed that the produced AgNPs had a spherical shape, a maximum absorbance of 367.47 nm, and crystalline nanoscale dimensions of 63.57 nm. The created AgNPs were tested for their antibacterial properties using microdilution methods on gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, as well as the yeast C. albicans ATCC 10231. According to the study's findings, the synthesised AgNPs demonstrated strong antibacterial activity at concentrations of 0.75 and 1.50 µg mL^-1.

An Application on Statistical Process Control and Control Charts in Microbial Fertilizer Production

Semih VERGİ — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0200

Statistical Process Control (SPC), which is one of the stages of quality control, enables the collection and analysis of data related to processes in product and service production, the identification of variables affecting production, their interpretation within specified parameters, and the prevention of production errors. In this research, quality control data from a company engaged in microbial fertilizer production were analyzed using control charts from Statistical Process Control techniques with the help of the Minitab 19 program, and p-defect rate charts and np-defect count charts were created. The selection of the graphs under investigation within the control charts stems from the data structure and the production stages and methods of the control samples taken in microbial fertilizer production. A 24-week production process for the company under study was examined, and it was observed that 87.5% of production was within control limits. During production periods outside the control limits, it was determined that the errors in production were not systematic and that production generally occurred within the company's production specifications. Conversely, considering that a 12.5% production loss in terms of output represents a significant rate in terms of efficiency and that production specifications may change during periods of intense competition, one of the research's recommendations is that quality control processes aimed at resolving errors at their source should continue on a continuous basis.

Comparison of the Effects of Different Biofertilizer Applications on Tomato Fruit Quality

Hayriye Bengisu BELKE, Tuğba ÖZBUCAK — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0200

The intensive use of chemical fertilizers in agriculture has a negative impact on soil, human, and environmental health. For this reason, there has been a recent increase in environmentally friendly, sustainable, and ecologically based agricultural practices. This study aimed to determine the effects of different organic fertilizer applications on the yield and quality of tomato plants. Conducted in a greenhouse setting, the study examined the effects of fish waste compost, sheep manure, bacterial culture, and chemical fertilizer (DAP) applications on (Solanum lycopersicum L.) were determined and compared. The fruit harvesting period was conducted in two harvests. Analyses of texture, pH, electrical conductivity, calcium carbonate, organic matter, available phosphorus, and potassium were performed on the soil samples used in the study. The results of the study indicate that fish manure and sheep manure applications in the first harvest, and mixed fertilizer and fish manure applications in the second harvest, had a positive effect on fruit size, weight, volume, and diameter. DAP and mixed fertilizer applications during the second harvest period influenced pH. When evaluated for acidity in the fruit juice, the fruits obtained in both harvests were found to be sweet.

The Impact of Digitalization and Exchange Rate on Agricultural Productivity in Türkiye: An ARDL Analysis for the Period 1993-2024

Bayram KAYANTAŞ, Muhammet Kerem GÜNEŞ, Yusuf YAKŞİ — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0200

This study aims to empirically analyze the main determinants of agricultural labor productivity in the Turkish economy using data for the period 1993-2024. Agricultural value added per worker is employed as the dependent variable, while exchange rate, digitalization, per capita income, and trade openness are included in the model as independent variables. The long-run and short-run dynamics among the variables are examined within the ARDL framework. The results indicate the existence of a long-run cointegration relationship among the variables. According to the findings, per capita income and the exchange rate have a statistically significant and positive impact on agricultural productivity in the long run. Digitalization, proxied by internet usage, exhibits a positive but limited effect, whereas trade openness is found to be statistically insignificant. The negative and significant error correction term suggests that short-run deviations are rapidly adjusted toward the long-run equilibrium. Diagnostic test results confirm that the model is free from issues such as autocorrelation and heteroskedasticity, and that the parameter estimates remain stable over the sample period. The findings highlight the importance of accelerating digital transformation processes, maintaining macroeconomic stability, and supporting sectoral modernization policies to enhance agricultural productivity in Türkiye.

Morphological Responses of Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis L.) to in vitro Drought Stress

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0200

This study was conducted to determine the effects of drought stress on the morphological development of lemon balm (Melissa officinalis L.) under in vitro conditions. The experiments were conducted at the Prof. Dr. Saadet Büyükalaca Plant Tissue Culture Laboratory of the Department of Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, Çukurova University, and the Plant Tissue Culture Laboratory of the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Sivas University of Science and Technology. Polyethylene glycol (PEG) was used to induce drought stress in the experiment. In this context, stem and root lengths (mm), stem fresh and dry weights (g), and root fresh and dry weights (g) of lemon balm plants were measured at different PEG concentrations (0%, 2%, 4%, 6%). According to the findings, statistically significant differences (p≤0.01) were observed among the media for all investigated traits. The highest values for root and stem length and for root and stem fresh weight were obtained from the control group (M1: 0% PEG), with 10.07 mm, 23.81 mm, 0.0057 g, and 0.091 g, respectively. In terms of root and stem dry weights, the highest values were determined in plants grown in the M2 medium containing 2% PEG, with 0.0007 g and 0.0062 g, respectively. High PEG concentrations (4% and 6%) markedly restricted plant growth and biomass formation for all examined parameters. In conclusion, increasing PEG levels were shown to have adverse effects on the development of lemon balm plants.

Yield and Stability in Confectionery Sunflower Genotypes: AMMI–GGE and WAASBY Approach

Mustafa YAŞAR, Mehmet SEZGİN , Abdulmelik ARAS — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0200

In this study, the seed yield performance and genotype × environment interaction (GEI) of five genotypes (G1–G5) were evaluated in a multi-location field trial of sunflower grown for confectionery sunflower seed production at four locations in Türkiye (Edirne, Konya, Bursa, and Manisa). The trials were set up in a randomized block design with 4 replications; data were analyzed by combined variance analysis, and the GEI structure was separated using the AMMI model. Adaptation patterns were interpreted using the AEC and which-won-where views of the GGE biplot; the yield–stability balance was evaluated within an integrated yield-stability framework using the WAASB and WAASBY indices (wY=0.65; wS=0.35). Environment, genotype, and GEI effects were found to be significant; environment explained the largest portion of total variation (58.0%). 96.66% of the GEI was concentrated in the first two IPCA components. Average yield was highest in Konya at 3494.60 kg ha⁻¹ and lowest in Manisa at 2349.60 kg ha⁻¹. The WAASBY ranking showed that G4 was ahead in terms of overall adaptation, while WAASB showed that G1 was the most stable genotype. The Which-won-where view supported the specific adaptation potential of G3 in Konya conditions and G4 in Bursa. The WAASBY weight sensitivity analysis revealed that G4's leadership was maintained across the tested weight combinations, while the ranking of the second-place candidates (G1–G3) could vary depending on production objectives.

Modeling and Predicting of Cow Milk Production Amount in Türkiye with Artificial Neural Networks

Şenol ÇELİK, Yusuf ÇAKIR — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0200

This study evaluates the performance of an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) model on a multi-year time series and presents its future predictions. The research data consists of cow milk production amount data in Türkiye for the period January 2010 to August 2025. Quantitative metrics such as the coefficient of determination (R²), Root Mean Square Error (RMSE), and Mean Absolute Error (MAE) were used in evaluating the model’s performance. The model has high explanatory power (R²=0.877). This indicates that the model successfully explains approximately 88% of the total variance in the dataset and effectively captures the long-term trend and strong annual seasonality of the series. In the application, a network model in the form of the Levenberg-Marquardt backpropagation algorithm (trainlm), consisting of 12 input neurons, 12 hidden neurons, and 1 output neuron, was used. The model provides estimates for cow milk production amount in Türkiye during the January-December 2026 period, ranging from 920046,79 tons to 985781,57 tons. The model also predicted that the seasonally highest (peak) cow milk production would occur in March and May, and the lowest (bottom) cow milk production would occur in September and November. The ANN model was found to provide suitable results in the production modeling of animal products.

Determination of the Races of Verticillium dahliae Isolates Obtained From Cotton Fields in Aydın Province

Birsen GEÇİOĞLU ERİNCİK — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0200

In Aydın province, where cotton has been cultivated for many years, plant wilting caused by Verticillium dahliae, a soil-borne fungus, is causing significant yield losses. While the use of resistant cotton varieties has been prominent in the control of this pathogen, the emergence of new races that break resistance makes controlling this disease even more difficult today. Race 2, assumed to have emerged later as a result of evolution, is currently known as the most aggressive and widespread race of V. dahliae. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence and pathogenic characteristics of V. dahliae race 2 in cotton fields of Aydın province. For this purpose, race identification of 118 V. dahliae isolates collected from cotton fields in Aydın province was determined at the molecular level by PCR using specific primer sets. As a result of the test, 109 of the 118 isolates were identified as race 2, and 3 as race 1. The 6 isolates that did not yield amplicons in the PCR were included in the unidentified group. Race 2 was found in all 25 fields sampled (100%), while race 1 was found in only 2 fields (8%). Virulence tests performed on susceptible ‘SC2121’ and resistant ‘Climbo’ tomato varieties yielded differentiating reactions for race 1 and race 2 isolates, confirming the validity of the PCR race identification. In cotton, virulence tests showed high levels of disease severity and leaf defoliation caused by race 2 isolates. Race 1 isolates were in the group with the lowest virulence. The results of this study highlight the need to re-test the resistance of cotton varieties produced in Aydın province against race 2.

Multidimensional Quality Evaluation of Commercial Table Eggs Using Physical, Functional, and PCA-Based Analyses

Samiye ADAL — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0200

This study aimed to conduct a comprehensive quality assessment of commercially available Grade A table eggs marketed in Afyonkarahisar, Türkiye, through the integration of physical, freshness-related, functional, and multivariate analysis. A total of 180 eggs from 12 commercial brands were examined. Exterior quality parameters included egg weight, shell percentage, shell thickness, shape index, air cell height, and the proportion of undetectable cracks, whereas interior quality characteristics comprised the Haugh unit (HU), yolk index (YI), yolk colour index, and egg component ratios. The functional parameters assessed were foam capacity, foam stability, drainage, emulsion stability, and soluble solid content (Brix). Significant differences (p<0.05) among brands were observed in various quality measures, specifically Haugh unit, air cell height, percentage of undetectable cracks, foam capacity, foam stability, drainage, and emulsion stability. HU values varied from 44.99 to 84.79, signifying considerable diversity in internal freshness and albumen quality between brands. Functional investigations revealed that foam capacity and foam stability are not directly connected, suggesting that foaming expansion and structural stability are regulated by distinct mechanisms. Principal component analysis (PCA) indicated that freshness-related factors, particularly Haugh unit, air cell, crack incidence, and foaming properties, were the fundamental variables distinguishing commercial egg samples. While exterior morphological characteristics were largely uniform between brands, significant differences (p<0.05) were seen in internal freshness and functional characteristics. The results underscore the necessity of thorough quality assessment methodologies for the evaluation of commercial eggs, offering significant insights for consumers, producers, food processors, and regulatory bodies concerning egg freshness, technological efficacy, and quality standardisation.

Comparison of Dry and Aqueous Purification Methods of Biodiesel Produced from Blends of Different Types of Oils

Müberra Nur KILIÇARSLAN, Abdullah Engin ÖZÇELİK, Mustafa ACAROĞLU — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0200

Biodiesel is considered a promising alternative fuel due to its renewable and biodegradable characteristics that can be used instead of fossil fuels. It is known that the biodiesel raw material and each stage during production have effects on the biodiesel product and one of the most important of these stages is the purification stage. In our study, it was aimed to emphasize the importance of raw oil for biodiesel by blending different edible oils and the importance of the purification stage with different purification methods. Therefore, six types of biodiesels were produced under the same experimental conditions by mixing sunflower, safflower, canola and hazelnut edible oils at different ratios. Afterwards, two different purification steps were applied in biodiesel production by transesterification method: aqueous washing with distilled water and dry washing with magnesol. Finally, kinematic viscosity, density and pH analyses were performed to determine the quality of biodiesel. While dry washing was more efficient in terms of kinematic viscosity in biodiesels with high canola oil content, aqueous washing was more efficient in biodiesels with high sunflower and safflower content. In biodiesels dry washed, pH increased mostly from 5.5 to 6. The most efficient biodiesel in aqueous washing was the 6th biodiesel, 6C2H2S biodiesel (96.47%), while the 4th biodiesel in dry washing was 9Su1H biodiesel (96.45%). It can be said that the crude oil used is the most important factor for biodiesel yield and waste, followed by the purification method. The findings provide guidance for selecting suitable feedstock blends and purification strategies to achieve high biodiesel yield and desirable fuel properties.

Effects of Heavy Metal Stress on in vitro Germination and Seedling Growth of Parsley

Ecem KARA — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0200

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different heavy metals (nickel [Ni], copper [Cu], cadmium [Cd], and lead [Pb]) on the early development of Petroselinum crispum (parsley), which is grown in open fields and has a high risk of exposure to heavy metal pollution under in vitro conditions. Heavy metal stress was induced in Murashige-Skoog (MS) nutrient medium at three different concentrations of 100, 300, and 500 μM for each metal. Multidimensional parameters such as germination rate, shoot and root length, fresh and dry biomass values, seedling growth indices (I and II), dry weight root:shoot ratio, tolerance indices, and relative germination were evaluated. Overall, the findings demonstrated a dose-dependent suppression of plant growth with increasing concentrations. Germination rates were 89.50 % and 90.00 % in the control and Ni-100 treatments, respectively, whereas they decreased to 28.67 % and 32.00 % in the Pb-500 and Cd-500 treatments, respectively. In addition, the root length tolerance index was determined as 13.62 % in Cd-500 and 16.62 % in Pb-500. Cd and Pb were the metals that most strongly suppressed germination and root development at high doses. Cu and Ni, however, showed relatively more tolerable effects at lower doses. In conclusion, this study, conducted under in vitro stress conditions, comparatively revealed the sensitivity levels of parsley plants to heavy metal toxicity.

Calculating Logistics Costs: An Application in the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Sector of Mersin Province

Mahsun ÇAPAROĞLU, Beyhan BELLER DİKMEN — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0200

This study aims to calculate logistics costs incurred by businesses operating in the fresh fruit and vegetable sector using a traditional costing approach through a practical example. To achieve the stated objective, the case study method, one of the qualitative research methods, was employed. In this context, data from Company X, operating in the fresh fruit and vegetable sector in Tarsus district of Mersin province, covering the period September 2024 – May 2025 were analyzed. This study includes an introduction to the fresh fruit and vegetable sector, statistical information on the state of fresh vegetable trade worldwide and in Turkey, definitions of logistics, logistics activities and costs, as well as a literature review relevant to the sector. In the case study section, the logistics costs incurred in the production of lobna peppers, classified within the fresh fruit and vegetable sector, were determined, and total and unit costs were calculated specifically for Company X. The findings revealed that the highest cost item was the supply (purchase) cost. Furthermore, the profit earned by Company X during this period was calculated by comparing the sales revenue from the sale of lobna peppers harvested on the specified dates with the logistics costs incurred during the lobna pepper production period. In the fresh fruit and vegetable sector, which is increasing in value and share worldwide, studies that comprehensively address the share of logistics costs in total costs and their calculation methods at the company level are quite limited in the literature. In this context, it is believed that this study will contribute to the literature.

Effects of Kinetin Applications on Growth and Morphological Damage in Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) Seedlings under Salt Stress Conditions

Halide AKTAŞ, Özlem ÜZAL — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0200

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of different exogenous kinetin concentrations (10, 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60 µM) on plant growth and morphological damage in cucumber seedlings (Cucumis sativus L. cv. 'BT Bursalfa') under salinity stress. The experiment was carried out in a hydroponic system under controlled growth chamber conditions at Van Yuzuncu Yıl University, Faculty of Agriculture, Physiology Laboratory. Cucumber seedlings were subjected to 50 mM NaCl-induced salt stress and subsequently treated with various kinetin concentrations. Control plants were grown under optimal conditions without stress and hormone treatments. Total plant fresh weight, root length, root fresh weight, shoot fresh weight, leaf fresh weight, leaf number, plant height, shoot diameter, and internode distance were measured. Morphological damage was evaluated using a 1–5 visual scale. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and Duncan's multiple range test (p<0.05). Results indicated that 50 mM NaCl salinity stress significantly reduced plant growth parameters and induced visual damage symptoms. Among kinetin treatments, 20 µM showed the most effective improvement in growth traits, enhancing root development and biomass accumulation under stress. Conversely, suboptimal (10 µM) and particularly supraoptimal (30–60 µM) kinetin concentrations inhibited plant growth, exacerbated morphological damage, and led to extreme phytotoxicity at 60 µM. These findings highlight the importance of optimal kinetin dosage under salinity stress conditions and demonstrate a clear biphasic (hormetic) dose-response relationship of exogenous cytokinin in cucumber seedlings.

Relationships of Water Productivity with Yield, Plant Nitrogen Content, and Oil Content, and Correlations Between Evapotranspiration and Soil Properties in Nitrogen-Fertilized Rainfed Sunflower in the Thrace Region of Türkiye

Mehmet Ali GÜRBÜZ, Tuğçe Ayşe KARDEŞ, Zeynep DEMİR — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0200

Optimizing water productivity and nutrient management under rainfed conditions has become critical for sustainable sunflower production due to increasing climate variability and water scarcity in semi-arid regions. This study was conducted to investigate the relationships between water productivity (WP), evapotranspiration (ET), sunflower yield, plant nitrogen (N) content, oil content, and selected soil chemical properties under rainfed conditions in the Thrace Region of Türkiye. Field experiments were carried out at different locations between 2013 and 2016 using the sunflower cultivar ‘Tunca’. Five N fertilizer levels (0, 30, 60, 90, and 120 kg N ha⁻¹) were applied under rainfed conditions in a Latin square experimental design with five replications. Seasonal crop evapotranspiration was calculated using the soil water balance method, while WP was determined as the ratio of grain yield to evapotranspiration. Regression and Pearson correlation analyses were performed to evaluate the relationships among the investigated parameters. Seasonal ET values varied between 198 and 464 mm depending on year and location. Strong positive linear relationships were determined between WP and sunflower yield in all experimental sites, indicating that improved WP significantly increased grain yield. Similarly, positive relationships were observed between WP and plant N content, suggesting that efficient water use enhanced N uptake and utilization. In contrast, WP generally showed negative relationships with sunflower oil content, indicating that increasing yield and N accumulation may reduce oil concentration in seeds. Correlation analyses demonstrated that ET was closely associated with soil chemical properties. Potassium (K₂O) generally exhibited positive relationships with ET, whereas high CaCO₃ content, elevated pH, and micronutrient imbalances negatively affected plant water consumption. The results indicated that both soil fertility and water availability play critical roles in regulating evapotranspiration, nutrient uptake, yield formation, and oil accumulation in sunflower under semi-arid conditions. Overall, the findings demonstrated that improving WP is essential for sustainable sunflower production under rainfed conditions. In addition, soil chemical properties should be carefully considered in water management and nutrient management strategies in order to optimize yield, plant nutrition, and oil quality in sunflower cultivation.

Patent-Oriented Project-Based Learning in Engineering Design Education: Student Perspectives from an Agricultural Machinery Course

Gülden ÖZGÜNALTAY ERTUĞRUL, Pelin ÖZGÜR POLAT — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0200

This study investigates the educational value of a patent-oriented project-based learning (PBL) approach implemented within an undergraduate engineering design course. The intervention was embedded in an Agricultural Machinery Design course during the 2024-2025 academic year and involved 12 senior students enrolled in a Biosystems Engineering program. A qualitative-dominant single-case mixed-methods design was adopted, integrating descriptive survey data with qualitative evidence obtained from structured open-ended questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. The results suggest that the patent-oriented PBL activity was perceived as a beneficial learning experience, particularly in fostering creative thinking, innovation awareness, technical communication, and professional responsibility. Students reported gains in the use of technical terminology, understanding of engineering design processes, and appreciation of teamwork. Qualitative findings also revealed recurring challenges in patent writing, especially regarding novelty assessment, technical drawing, and group coordination. Despite these challenges, students emphasized substantial learning gains, including a clearer understanding of the patent system, the distinction between theoretical knowledge and practical application, and the value of collaborative problem-solving. Given the small sample size and single-course context, the findings should be interpreted as context-specific, but they provide practical insights for educators seeking to integrate innovation-oriented and patent-related activities into engineering design courses.