Iraqi Journal of Agricultural Sciences

This study aimed to examine how including dietary dried rosemary leaves (DRL) of Holstein bulls affects methane production and certain rumen fluid characteristics in vitro. Rumen fluid was obtained from newly slaughtered calves and used in two separate trials: one for gas production and another for digestion. In the trials, two diets were implemented. The first was the standard diet for bulls, consisting of a concentrate diet and alfalfa hay (control group). The second diet included the addition of 250 g DRL to the essential diet. There was a significant decrease (P≤0.01) in methane and N-NH3 production, as well as in the ratio between unsaturated fatty acids (USF) and saturated fatty acids in the rosemary group compared to the control. In the first trial, the concentrations of both volatile and non-volatile fatty acids as well as the total USF increased significantly (P≤0.01) in the rosemary group compared to the control group. In the second trial, there was a significant increase (P≤0.01) in the digestibility of dry and organic matters and in metabolizable energy in the rosemary group. There was a decrease in the population of protozoa in the rosemary group compared to the control group. The addition of DRL can be seen as beneficial in modifying rumen fermentation. This can lead to a reduction in methane production and an improvement in rumen fermentation traits. As a result, there is an increase in the undegradable protein in the rumen that enters the small intestine. This ultimately means that more amino acids are available for production, and methane emissions from bulls can be reduced, contributing to sustainable agricultural development goals.

This study was conducted to estimate (Co) variance components of a sexual and egg production traits in Iraqi brown local chickens. Data on 2234 pedigreed hens for successive six generations of selection for high egg production during the first 24 weeks of laying were used. Data of first egg weight (FEWT), body weight at sexual maturity (BWSM), age at sexual maturity (ASM), egg number (EN), egg weight (EW) and egg mass (EM) were recorded individually. The univariate and bivariate animal models under Average Information Restricted Maximum Likelihood (AI-REML) were applied to estimate the variance component and the BLUP breeding values. The average of the traits mentioned above was 35.7g, 1489.59g, 149.31d, 109.32 egg/hen, 44.80g and 4887.72g respectively. Heritability estimates based on individual animal model was 0.17, 0.42, 0.39, 0.40, 0.68 and 0.40 for the traits mentioned above respectively. The genetic and phenotypic correlations between sexual traits (ASM, BWSM, and FEWT) showed moderate and positive values. Genetic correlation between sexual traits (ASM, BWSM, and FEWT) with EN and EM was negative. Genetic correlations between (EN and EW), (EN and EM) and (EW and EM) were -0.105,0.902 and 0.337 respectively. Genetic correlations between ASM with EW were negative while BWSM and FEWT with EW were Positive. Average breeding values across generation tend to be positive in productive traits but it was negative in sexual traits. In conclusion, a good performance and reliable estimation of genetic parameters and BLUP breeding value shown in the current study could be revealed that Iraqi brown local chickens have a good genetic potential for egg production traits and respond well to selection for increasing egg production traits.

This study was aimed to evaluate detection of T. gondii in blood DNA based on the B1 gene and serologically, also to investigate the effect of some risk factors (sex, ages, breeds and flocks). A total of 190 goats were included. The blood samples were obtained from the jugular vein and subjected to nested PCR (nPCR) and Elisa for detection of T. gondii. The results obtained that the prevalence was 24.21% by nPCR and 46.31% by ELISA with significant differences. The degree of agreement between nPCR and ELISA was a slight (Kappa=0.212). The sensitivity and specificity of ELISA was 67.39 and 60.42 respectively. According to results of nPCR, there was a significant difference between sex, with a higher infection rate in males (40.42%) than females (18.88%). Males are more at risk to infection than that of female (The crude odds ratio (COR)=2.91, (95% CI 1.41-5.97) and adjusted odds ratio (AOR)=4.66, (95% CI 2.01-10.79). The infection rate in the Al-Dibuni flock (36.36%) was significantly higher than that of Abu-Gharib (19.25%). The goats in Al-Dibuni are more at risk to infection than that in Abu-Ghraib flock COR=2.39, (95%CI 1.19-4.80) and AOR=2.31, (95%CI 0.97-5.50).

This study was conducted to detecting the FASN gene polymorphism and its relationship to daily milk yield (DMY), lactation period, and milk composition in addition to polymorphism distribution and allele frequency in 52 Awassi ewes and their lambs. It was carried out from 5/1/2022 to 30/10/2022 at the Sheep Farm of the Al-Fayhaa station in the Jableh sub-district / Al-Musaib project (55 km south of Baghdad), in addition to the Biotechnology Laboratory at the College of Agricultural Engineering Sciences/University of Baghdad. Three polymorphism appeared in this variant (A>G SNP), which are AA, AG, and GG, with the percentages of 63.46, 32.69, and 3.85%, respectively. The variation among them were highly significant (P≤0.01) with a frequency of 0.70 and 0.30 for alleles G and A, respectively. The protein content of Awassi sheep's milk differ significantly (P≤0.05) at rate 5.17% for ewes with GG polymorphism. In conclusion, FASN gene can be used to develop strategies for genetic improvement of sheep, and expanding the study to a larger sample and multiple sites and study the types of fatty acids in milk, as well as finding the interaction between two SNPs, would give more accurate results and determine the best method for managing and improving sheep flocks.

This study was conducted to investigate the polymorphism of ACTN3/EXON-19 gene and their relationship the performance of local horses in Iraq. This study was carried out at the Iraqi Equestrian Club (15 km west from Baghdad city center) period during d from 1 February to 30 December 2022, to investigate the gene polymorphism of ACTN3 region EXON-19 and their relationship with performance of local horses in Iraq. Were found three variants (3 SNPs) in the ACTN3 gene - exon 19 and in different locations, namely rs1148960207, whose genotypes were CC, CT, and TT, as their distribution rates were significantly different (P≤0.05). The ratios of heterogeneity rs1144413495 with genotypes CC, TC, and TT were 34.21, 60.53, and 5.26% that differ significantly at (P≤0.01), with an allelic frequency of 0.64 and 0.36 for the two alleles C and T, respectively. The variant rs1148960207 had a significant (P≤0.05) effect on post-exercise breathing depth, speed rate and body length. Moreover a highly significant (P≤0.01) effect on heart girth and forefoot height for local horses. In conclusion ACTN3 gene has a distinct role in some physiological traits like the number and depth of respiration after exercise, rate of speed, and some body measurements, like body length, heart girth, and frontal height.

This study was carried out to identify the effect of the quantitative trait loci (QTL) region on some productive and physiological traits of Iraqi chickens. One hundred five and ten-week-old laying hens were used and bred in individual sages from sexual maturity to 100 days of production. Blood samples were collected from the brachial vein for DNA extraction and serum isolation, and then polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was done to determine the target region of the QTL. Two groups were obtained: the first had a PCR product with band 294 bp denoted (P) and the second had no PCR product denoted (NP). The P group had a significant (p < 0.05) effect on egg weight at the second stage of the study amounted 48.23 gm. and a significant (p < 0.05) effect was observed in egg shell weight amounted 6.97 gm. No significant effects were found in all productive, physiological, or qualitative traits.In conclusion, the presence and absence of QTL regions significantly affect egg weight and egg shell weight, which is suitable for selection programs to improve the genetic makeup of Iraqi chicken.

This research aims to determine the effects and limitations of using B. purpurea in complete feed on the performance of male Kacang goats. The study involved sixteen male Kacang goats aged 10-12 months with a weight range of 12-14 kg. The research method employed a Completely Randomized Design with four treatments and four replications, consisting of T0: G. sepium 30% + Natural grass 38% + Rice bran 7% + Milled corn 24,8% + Mineral mix 0,2% (control); T1: G. sepium 30% + Natural grass 38% + Rice bran 6,5% + Milled corn 22,8% + Mineral mix 0,2% + B. purpurea 2,5%; T2: G. sepium 30% + Natural grass 38% + Rice bran 5% + Milled corn 19,3% + Mineral mix 0,2% + B. purpurea 7,5%; T3: G. sepium 30% + Natural grass 38% + Rice bran 4,5% + Milled corn 14,8% + Mineral mix 0,2% + B. purpurea 12,5%. The results showed that the treatments significantly influenced (P<0,05) blood glucose levels (at 2 and 4 hours after consumption), blood urea levels (at 0 hours before consumption and 6 hours after consumption), crude protein consumption, daily weight gain, weight gain, feed conversion, feed efficiency, and body length. Other variables were not significantly affected. In conclusion, B. purpurea at a concentration of 7.5% yielded the most significant improvements in terms of final body weight, daily weight gain, and feed conversion efficiency.

The study objects were to assess Enterococcus faecalis prevalence in milk from mastitis infected cows, and access their antibiotic resistance as well as investigate their resistance genes. A total of 300 samples were tested during the period from February to May in 2022. The results of initial examination showed that only 81 isolates as E. species according to phenotypic criteria. Confirmatory test was conducted, the results showed that only 25 isolates by 8.3% E.faecalis isolates. Antimicrobial susceptibility test indicated high levels of contamination with multi-drug resistant E.faecalis of with isolation of strains resistant to Vancomycin as 32%. The most high level of E.faecalis resistance was observed to Azithromycin, Cephalosporines, by 80 and 72% respectively. Adopt on results of susceptibility test, the six most isolates that gave high (MDR) were selected to investigate resistance genes in them by PCR, norA, tetK and aac6 genes are found in all of the isolate. E. faecalis gene was sequenced, analyzed, and registered in Gen-bank-NCBI and obtained the accession number (OP566380) that became a reference in Iraq and the world.

Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae (M. ovipneumoniae) is a type of contagious bacteria have respiratory clinical signs; nasal mucinous discharge, sneezing, coughing, dullness, and in some cases with diarrhea and the necropsy findings represent lesions of pneumonia in different stages; pulmonary edema and hyperemia, consolidation, hemorrhage and hepatization. that causes atypical pneumonia and pleuropneumonia in small ruminants, it is belongs to a group of bacteria named Mollicutes which characterized by its minute genome size and perpetually devoid of the cell wall. The aim of studies indicates the bacterial, molecular, immunopathological and immunohistochemical investigation in sheep with two experimental routs of infection in two parts. The current isolate of Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae was obtained from respiratory tract swabs of sheep in Basrah abattoir and then cultured in PPLO broth and agar and detected genetically by 16SrRNA and GOP3/MGSO. Nine sheep were divided into G1 and G2 groups inoculated with My. ovipneumoniae 5ml (1X107 CFU/ml) intranasal and intratracheal, G3 control group. IgGs levels on day 30 were high in tow groups. Fibrino-suppurative tracheitis and interstitial bronchopneumonia were prominent in gross appearance. Microscopically: necrosis of ciliated pseudostratified epithelium with inflammatory cells. It could be concluded that My. ovipneumoniae was a primary causative agent of pleuro-bronchopneumonia in sheep.

The current study was aimed to ascertain the impact of ciprofloxacin, an acidifier acid, and a Bacillus subtilis on immunological function and growth efficiency after a starter-phase challenge with Salmonella pullorum. 250 broiler chicks (Ross 308) were put into five groups of fifty each, all groups except the fifth group, orally challenged with S. pullorum at one day old, and provided with a supplement in drinking water after three days as follow G1: treated with B. subtilis (2×107 CFU/g) (250 g/1000 L). G2: treated with acidifier acid (0.5-1 ml/L). G3: treated with ciprofloxacin 10% (0.5 ml/L). G4: only infected with S. pullorum. G5: control negative. The findings revealed extremely significant variations in the means antibodies (IgG) and IFN-γ titre against Salmonella pullorum in serum which was increased significantly at the level (P≤0.05) in all groups at 7 days, particularly in G4 and G1, in comparison with G5, but, at 21 and 35 days the results of IgG and IFN-γ titers showed a significant decrease (P>0.05), the results of immunity matching with most probable number (MPN/g) of S. pullorum in feces. Additionally, the highest significantly differences at the level (P≤0.05) in growth performance across all groups. We conclusion, the organic acid has biggest role in protection in comparison with ciprofloxacin that have immunosuppression also, the B. subtilis not recorded any protection.

This study aimed to assess the role of kaolin in reducing the adverse effect of Pseudomonas aeruginosain common carp, Cyprinus carpio. Specifically, the histopathological alterations in kidney, spleen and liver were investigated. Firstly, P. aeruginosa was isolated from infected fish. A total of 100 fish (40.8 ± 2 g)were divided into five groups in duplicate (10 fish in each replicate) as:control healthy (C-) group uninfected and without kaolin treatment; (C+): fish were infected with P. aeruginosa and without kaolin treatment. Group T1, T2 and T3 fish were infected experimentally with P. aeruginosa (LD50= 2±0.2×109 CFU ml-1), andtreated with kaolin at concentrations of 4, 6, 8 g/L for 7 successive days respectively.Kidney sections in positive control showedhydrobic degeneration, reduction of hemopotic tissue, and nuclear pyknosis. Spleen sectionsexhibited melanomacrophage aggregation and congestion in red bulb of the positive control. While, liver sections revealed necrosis of hepatic cells and cellular vacuolation. All of these alterations were lesser of extent in kidney, spleen and liver in kaolin treated groups. Overall, this study provides insights into the potential use of kaolin as a treatment for against P. aeruginosa in common carp and may contribute to the understanding of the mechanisms underlying histopathological alterations in response to bacterial infections. As well as, histopathological alterations provides detailed information and a powerful tool about the cellular and subcellular structure of tissues and organs.

The current study was aimed to ascertain the impact of ciprofloxacin, an acidifier acid, and a Bacillus subtilis on immunological function and growth efficiency after a starter-phase challenge with Salmonella pullorum. 250 broiler chicks (Ross 308) were put into five groups of fifty each, all groups except the fifth group, orally challenged with S. pullorum at one day old, and provided with a supplement in drinking water after three days as follow G1: treated with B. subtilis (2×107 CFU/g) (250 g/1000 L). G2: treated with acidifier acid (0.5-1 ml/L). G3: treated with ciprofloxacin 10% (0.5 ml/L). G4: only infected with S. pullorum. G5: control negative. The findings revealed extremely significant variations in the means antibodies (IgG) and IFN-γ titre against Salmonella pullorum in serum which was increased significantly at the level (P≤0.05) in all groups at 7 days, particularly in G4 and G1, in comparison with G5, but, at 21 and 35 days the results of IgG and IFN-γ titers showed a significant decrease (P>0.05), the results of immunity matching with most probable number (MPN/g) of S. pullorum in feces. Additionally, the highest significantly differences at the level (P≤0.05) in growth performance across all groups. We conclusion, the organic acid has biggest role in protection in comparison with ciprofloxacin that have immunosuppression also, the B. subtilis not recorded any protection.

The present study was carried out to investigate the effect of propolis [(crud propolis and Water Ethanol Extract Propolis (WEEP)] as feed additive on biochemical and immunological in common carp Cyprinus carpio challenged with Aeromonas hydrophila. A total of 60 C. carpio, (75±10g) were randomly stocked into five treated groups in duplicate as follows: control group (C) fish were fed basal diet without any addition of propolis; T1 fish were fed basal diet supplemented with 10g/kg crud propolis; T2, T3 and T4 fish were fed WEEP at concentrations of 2g, 4g and 8 g/kg diet.Results indicated that The highest albumin content was found in T1 which showed a significant increase (P≤0.5) compared to C+ group, and globulin content did not show significant differences between T1, T2, T3, T4, C- and C+ groups. Cholesterol level did not lead to changes in all (P > 0.05) treated groups (T1, T2, T3 and T4) when compared with the control group. The glucose level showed a significant (P≤0.05) increase in all WEEP groups (T2, T3, and T4). The highest weighted Somatic Spleen Index (SSI) was reported in T3 which showed a significant (p < 0.05) increase compared to T1. The result of nitro blue tetrazolium (NBT) assay showed non-significant differences (P > 0.5) in T1, T2, T3 and T4 compared to C and C+ groups.

This study was aimed to effect of spraying nano chitosan loaded with NPK and nettle leaf extracts and green tea on yield and its quality of potato for the spring and autumn seasons of 2021 in Al-Suwaira district of Wasit Governorate, It was conducted as a factorial experiment (5 × 5) within randomized complete block design with three replicates. The first factor included spraying with four concentrations of Nano chitosan loaded with NPK fertilizer at concentrations 0, 10. 15 and 20% in addition to chemical fertilization treatment, the second factor was spraying nettle leaf extract 25 and 35 gL-1 and green tea extract at 2 and 4 g.L-1, in addition to the control treatment, spraying with distilled water only. The results showed a significant superiority of the interaction between spraying with Nano chitosan loaded with NPK at a concentration of 15% and spraying green tea extract at a concentration of 4 g L-1 in producing the highest value for the leaf area of the plant amounted to 9973 and 9742 m 2 plant-1 and the highest yield per plant reached 1055.7 and 967.9 g.plant-1 for both seasons respectively, and the highest percentage of dry matter in tubers (24.31 and 22.77% for both seasons, respectively. The tuber content of the amino acid Arginine increased significantly. (324.1 and 318.8 mg 100g D.W.-1) and Glutamine (94.70 and 9453 mg 100g D.W.-1) for both seasons respectively.

A hydroponic experiment was carried out at the College of Agricultural Engineering Sciences - University of Baghdad during the fall season of 2019-2020 in order to improve the quality traits of broccoli grown hydroponically under the modified Nutrient Film Technique (NFT), using an internationally approved standard solution and alternative solution, the plant was enriched with ozone and the foliar application of organic nutrients. The Hydroponic study included two experiments with the standard solution (Cooper's solution) and the alternative solution (ABEER). Both experiments were implemented within the Nested Design with three replications, and both included the gas type in the main plot, which were oxygen and ozone, while the sub-plot occupied with the foliar application of organic nutrients. The foliar application included the coconut water with two concentrations of 50 and 100 ml. L-1 and moringa leaves extract with two concentrations of 2 and 4%, in addition to the control treatment. Results were revealed a significant effect of ozone enrichment and the foliar application of coconut water at a concentration of 100 ml L-1 in the standard and alternative solutions, as the chlorophyl content (41.34, and 51.59%) and the β-Carotene (37.35 and 27.78 %) respectively. While the treatment of ozone enrichment and the foliar application of moringa leaves extract 2% for both solutions recorded the highest percentage Indol-3-Carbinol (54.03 and 56.40%) and Sulforaphane (51.66 and 43.95 mg kg dry weight-1) in the main heads respectively.

A hydroponic experiment was carried out at the College of Agricultural Engineering Sciences - University of Baghdad during the fall season of 2019-2020 in order to improve the quality traits of broccoli grown hydroponically under the modified Nutrient Film Technique (NFT), using an internationally approved standard solution and alternative solution, the plant was enriched with ozone and the foliar application of organic nutrients. The Hydroponic study included two experiments with the standard solution (Cooper's solution) and the alternative solution (ABEER). Both experiments were implemented within the Nested Design with three replications, and both included the gas type in the main plot, which were oxygen and ozone, while the sub-plot occupied with the foliar application of organic nutrients. The foliar application included the coconut water with two concentrations of 50 and 100 ml. L-1 and moringa leaves extract with two concentrations of 2 and 4%, in addition to the control treatment. Results were revealed a significant effect of ozone enrichment and the foliar application of coconut water at a concentration of 100 ml L-1 in the standard and alternative solutions, as the chlorophyl content (41.34, and 51.59%) and the β-Carotene (37.35 and 27.78 %) respectively. While the treatment of ozone enrichment and the foliar application of moringa leaves extract 2% for both solutions recorded the highest percentage Indol-3-Carbinol (54.03 and 56.40%) and Sulforaphane (51.66 and 43.95 mg kg dry weight-1) in the main heads respectively.

This research was aimed to study the effect of soil application of Bio health and foliar application with Tecamin max and Benzyl adenine on leaves minerals content of sweet orange (Citrus sinensis L.) seedlings during two successive seasons (2020 and 2021) using Randomized Complete Design with four replications. Bio health was added with three concentrations (0, 6 and 12 g.L-1) to the soil and foliar application of Tecamin max with three concentration (0, 5 and 10 ml.L-1) and Benzyl adenine with three concentration (0, 100 and 200 mg. L-1) on the sweet orange seedlings which were brought from private nursery in Duhok city and have two- years old and almost uniform in growth vigor. The results showed that all parameters such as, N, P, K, Ca and Fe leaves content in both seasons were increased significantly as compared with control, accept proline and Na was significantly decreased with increasing application of the bio-health, Tecamin max and Benzyl adenine, Furthermore, combination among high concentration of Bio health, Tecamin max and Benzyl adenine improved all parameters in comparison with the control.

This experiment was conducted at the Department of Horticulture and Landscape Engineering, College of Agricultural Engineering Sciences, University of Baghdad, during 2022 season to investigate the effect of spraying with melatonin, potassium sulfate, and organic zinc on the flowering and production stage, of 3-year old Kumquat saplings grafted onto lemon rootstock. The experiment was factorial within Randomized Completely Block Design using three replications. The factors of the experiment were foliar spraying with melatonin, potassium sulfate, and organic zinc. The treatments were applied at two times, spring and autumn. Each of the three factors independently influenced both the fruit characteristics and the concentration of chemical elements within the fruits. Melatonin application at a concentration of 20 mg.L-1 resulted in a remarkable improvement in fruit traits, specifically by increasing the number of fruits, fruit size, and fruit weight. This treatment also demonstrated a positive impact on the concentrations of various chemicals within the fruits, including TSS, total sugars, ascorbic acid, carotenoids, and phenols. Potassium sulfate applied at a concentration of 3000 mg.L-1 and organic zinc applied at a concentration of 1000 mg.L-1 exhibited the most pronounced effects on the same fruit traits that were positively influenced by melatonin.

This study aimed to investigate the impact of nine treatments on tomato plants and their planting location within a randomized complete block design. The treatments included gene silencing of the PL enzyme (RNAi-SlPL) and application of organic pectin and calcium to extend the marketability of tomato fruits and improve their quality. The RNAi-SlPL treatment outperformed others, revealed the lowest weight loss (41.4%) and highest firmness (4.89 kg·cm⁻²) after 36 days of cold storage, along with strong performance after 21 days at room storage (41.31% weight loss, 4.29 kg·cm⁻²). This was followed by CaP1P2 treatment, with 43.7% weight loss and 4.48 kg·cm⁻² firmness after 24 days of cold storage, and 45.87% weight loss with 4.15 kg·cm⁻² firmness after 14 days at room storage. Both treatments significantly boosted carotenoid (2.640 and 2.728 mg/100ml respectively) and lycopene (4.62 and 4.81 mg/100ml) levels post- cold storage. These findings highlight the effectiveness of RNAi technology and the use of organic pectin and calcium in extending the marketability of tomato fruits.

This research aimed to form a molecularly imprinted polymer by adding aluminum ion at the first step were to the allyl bromide monomer resulted was formation using bulk polymerization. To acquire the highest adsorption capacity, molar ratios of template, monomer, and cross-linking agent, as well as solvents and multiple monomers, were investigated. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to analyze the produced aluminum. the maximum adsorption capacity of Al-IIP were 0.1531 µmol/g and 0.2362 µmol/g respectively. aluminum adsorption followed a Langmuir isotherm model. Solid-phase extraction (SPE) syringe packed with ionic imprinted polymers (IIP) were used to selective separation and preconcentration for aluminum (III) ion from aqueous solutions to determine the aluminum by flame atomic absorption spectroscopy (FAAS).

A set of 60 samples were collected from different sources of multiple areas of Hyderabad (India) in order to select a local Escherichia coli isolates that have the ability to produce HSP70. 26 isolates were characterized after studied the morphological characteristics and microscopic properties of the isolates on macConkey agar and EMB recorded after 24hr. and grams staining was done. The isolated bacteria were screened for various biochemical tests to get 11 isolates that submitted for molecular identification, and the amplification of 16S rRNA regions using universal primer (16S rDNA) verified only 5 E. coli isolates which were sequenced and NCBI accession numbers were acquired. Five distinct isolates (RU-1, RU-3, RW-1, RS-4, and RF-3) of the gene dnaK and its surrounding area were successfully amplified in order to isolate the dnak gene, which encodes the DnaK protein. Amplicons' nearly identical sequences were discovered by restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP). The dnak gene from one representative, RU-3 isolate with accession number OL741466 isolated from Urine samples from suspected urinary tract infection (UTI) patients of Sir Ronald Ross Institute of Tropical and Communicable Diseases Nallakunta, Hyderabad, India was successfully cloned and sequenced by overlapping using 3 set of primers. The 1850 bp long dnaK gene encodes a polypeptide of 607 residues of amino acids. Using pBAD TOPO TA expression systems, the dnaK gene of RU-3 was cloned and expressed in E. coli BL21 (DE3). Incubating the BL21 with different concentrations of isopropyl-β-D-thiogalactopyranoside (IPTG) allowed the grown E. coli to determine the optimum concentration which was 0.05mM to induce the production of recombinant HSP70 protein within 5 hr. which considered as the best expression time in this study.

A study was conducted to evaluate the quality of Diyala River water with some heavy metals (Pb, Cu, Ni, Cd), Boron and their effect on pollution of agricultural soil surrounding river that is irrigated with river water. Nine areas located on river within Al-Jisr district of Al-Madain district, southeast of Baghdad Governorate / Iraq, were selected, namely Umm Al-Ubaid, Al-Uwaija, Al-Khafaji, Al-Kargouliya, Jurf Al-Naddaf, Al-Samadiyah, Abu Thila, Al-Arifiyah, Al-Tuwaitha, and northern shores of Salman Pak, for comparison purposes. Water samples were taken for three months during summer (June, July, and August) and three months during the winter (January, February, and March) of 2024, and average values for two seasons were taken. Soil samples were collected from agricultural soils adjacent to the river in above-mentioned areas at same time that water samples were taken. Results indicated a difference in chemical properties of studied water and soil during two seasons, as highest values for electrical conductivity, soil reaction, cataions and anaions dissolved, heavy metals ions and boron were in summer season compared to winter season in all sites, highest values were in Tuwaitha region. Water category was most dangerous in Al-Tuwaitha area C3S1 low-sodium high-salinity according to USDA system, while its classification was a severe problem and an increasing problem for two areas above, according to FAO system. Concentrations of Lead, Cadmium, Nickel and Copper exceeded permissible limits for irrigation water in both seasons for all sites except northern Salman Pak beaches (comparison). All agricultural soils are contaminated with Cadmium, not contaminated with Lead and Copper.

This study was aimed to investigate the occurrence of chloritization phenomenon in these soils. Three of these pedons were chosen in soil sites differing in their agricultural exploitation, which included: one pedon in an uncultivated soil at Daratw . While the second pedon was dug in soil exploited by the cultivation of wheat at Bardarash . The third pedon was chosen as representative of a forest soil at Tawska Valley. Also, another two soil pedons were exposed to successive cycles of wet and dry, were chosen in Aski Kalak , and Altun Kupri districts. All studied soils were examined by X-ray diffractions. Results showed the presence of Mica, Smectite, Real chlorite and Kaolinite minerals in clay fraction of these soils. Results also, showed the precipitation of Brucite layer into Montmorillonite interlayers and caused to shifting Montmorillonite towards Chlorite mineral in Aski Kalak , Altun Kupri, and forest soil pedons, this was attributed to creation a suitable conditions to encouraged a chloritization phenomenon to occur in these soils.

The aim of this study was to investigate the role of some hydrocolloids in improving the physical and sensory properties of gluten-free bread manufactured from millet flour. Whole grain millet flour (T2), whole grain millet flour with xanthan gum (T3), whole grain millet flour with guar gum (T4), unprocessed millet flour with extraction rate of (71%) with xanthan gum (T5), unprocessed millet flour with extraction rate of (71%) with guar gum (T6) ,were used to prepare gluten free bread beside another treatment manufactured by the same ingredients with replacing the sugar by glycerol (T7).The wheat flour was used as standard (T1). The results of the chemical composition showed that whole-grain Proso millet flour had higher percentages of fat, protein, ash and fiber, and lower moisture and carbohydrates content, in comparison to wheat flour. The amylose content were (38.46 - 26.25%) for wheat flour and whole grain millet flour respectively, which indicates that Proso millet is a non-waxy cultivar. The results of the physical properties of the baking product, represented by volume and specific volume, showed that T1 and T3 outperformed over the rest treatments. A sensory evaluation indicated that gluten-containing bread was more acceptable to consumers. Followed by gluten-free bread with xanthan gum, as the total scores for these two treatment were (94.73 , 85.92 ). While for T2, T3, T4, T6, T7 treatments were (44.44, 77.62, 54.72, 62.39, 82.45).

This study was conducted at two locations, Qlyasan Agricultural Research Station and Kanipanka Nursery Station, during the 2023–2024 winter season to investigate the effects of organic fertilizer and stubble height on forage yield attributes of grass pea genotypes. A split-split plot design was used with three factors: fertilizer application (F0= no fertilizer, F1= organic fertilizer), genotypes (G1: Local, G2: IGC-2011-62, G3: IGC-2011-35, G4: IGC-2011-9), and stubble height (SH1= 5cm, SH2 = 10cm). Fertilizer application significantly increased DFY in Kanipanka. Genotype significantly influenced most forage yield attributes, with G1 showing the highest values. Stubble height significantly affected GFY and DFY, particularly in Qlyasan. Kanipanka outperformed Qlyasan in key yield attributes. Cluster analysis identified two genotype groups, indicating genetic variability. Proper management of fertilizer. Interaction effects were observed for fertilizer × genotype and fertilizer × stubble height. Genotype selection and stubble height can optimize forage yield.

This study investigates the efficiency of three types of flat fan nozzles (blue, red, and brown) when operating with a boom sprayer under low-volume spraying conditions in the Gorno Botevo village area of Central Bulgaria. The experiment evaluated the sprayer's operational speed and working pressure across eight working regimes, focusing on the impact of speed and nozzle type on application performance. Statistical analyses, including univariate ANOVA and correlation analysis, revealed significant differences in performance among the nozzles. The blue, red, and brown nozzles achieved optimal performance at 8.5 km/h, 12 km/h, and 16 km/h, respectively, while maintaining the recommended pressure range of 4–5 bar. Predictive nonlinear models were developed, explaining 42.2% to 75.4% of the variation in nozzle pressure as influenced by speed. These models provide practical guidance for optimizing sprayer operation, enhancing pesticide application efficiency, and minimizing resource waste. This study contributes to advancing precision agricultural practices by offering actionable insights into the interplay between speed, pressure, and nozzle performance under field conditions.

This study aims to determine the effect of instant pumpkin soup consumption on the rats' growth, β-carotene levels, Antioxidant Enzyme, Malondialdehyde, and lipid profile. 30 male Wistar rats, 8-10 weeks, were divided equally into six groups. Control-negative (C-) rats were maintained on the AIN-93 diet. Control positive (C+) rats were given AIN-93+beef fat. Instant pumpkin soup groups (IPS 20, 40, 60, and 80) were given AIN-93+beef fat+instant pumpkin soup (20, 40, 60, and 80 g/kg of standard diet, respectively). Blood serum was collected and subjected to lipid profile, MDA (TBARS method), antioxidant analysis (DPPH), endogenous antioxidant enzyme, and β-carotene analysis. Data were analyzed using ANOVA followed by post hoc LSD. All rats in each group were shown a significant growth pattern. The antioxidant activity of IPS treatment groups showed insignificant (p>0.05) improvement in a dose-dependent manner. Insignificant improvements in antioxidant enzymes were also found in IPS Treatment groups. There is a significant (p<0.05) reduction of MDA in the treatment groups, with IPS 80 as the most potent dose.

This study explored the capability of treating real dairy wastewater using the microbial electrochemical system by using Lactobacillus plantarum species as a microorganism. The samples were collected from a local factory for dairy products in Baghdad. Three main parameters were investigated with different levels, for estimating chemical oxygen demand (COD), phosphate (P) and nitrogen (N) removal efficiency. The studied parameters were detention time, the potential difference between electrodes and initial concentration of COD. The respective optimum values for these parameters were 17 days, 400 mV and 17000 mg COD/L respectively. At the optimum values, the optimum COD removal efficiency was 99.4%. Meanwhile, the study also performed removal efficiency for N and P due to their effects on the aquatic life and ecosystem. The optimum removal efficiency for P and N were 99% and 99%, respectively.

This study was aimed to determine the active compounds in alcoholic extracts (methanolic 75% and ethanolic 75%) of Pelargonium gravolens leaves and flowers as well as their antibacterial and antioxidant activities. The methanolic extract of dry leaves and fresh flowers (30 g each) gave 4.8650, 2.8015 g respectively. While ethanolic extract for the same parts gave 5.5787, 2.1832g respectively. Spectrophotometric analysis showed that, the flavonoids content in leaves and flowers methanol extract were 20.38, 70.90 μg rutin equivalent/g of extract, respectively, as for ethanol extract those values were 21.89, 71.63 μg rutin equivalent/g of extract, respectively. According to the above findings, it has been noticed that the flowers ethanol extract recorded the highest value for flavonoids (71.63 μg rutin equivalent /g of extract). The results indicate that the free radical scavenging activity ( RSA) of ethanolic extract of the flowers and leaves was lower than that of methanolic extract. Where the RSA percentages of the leaves methanolic extract were (12, 13, 14, 16, 19 %) at a concentration (0.25, 0.50, 0.75, 1.00, 1.25 mg/ml) respectively, and for the flowers were (142, 162, 162) 164, 166%) at the same concentrations respectively.

The study was conducted in the Central Laboratory of Plant Tissue Culture - College of Agricultural Engineering Sciences - University of Baghdad for the period from October 2021 to August 2022 with the aim of tissue propagation of the Phalaenopsis amabilis L. orchid plant. The study consisted of five sequential experiments (sterilization, initiation, multiplication, rooting, and acclimatization) in order to obtain the best treatment for the next experiment. The results showed that the best treatment for sterilizing the nodules was 15 ml of commercial bleach for 15 minutes. As for the Initiation stage, the nodules were stimulated on MS medium containing 60 ml L-1 coconut water, which amounted to 100%. As for the multiplication stage, the interaction between BA and NAA showed a significant effect on the average number of shoots, their length, and the number of leaves, where the concentration of 2.5 mg L-1 BA in interaction with 1 mg L-1 of NAA produced the highest rate of shoots number (4 shoots. explants-1), leaves number.shoot-1 (4 shoot-1). The best medium for rooting the shoots was using MS medium half the strength of salts prepared with IBA at a concentration of 1 mg L-1 Where it produced the highest rate of rooting (100%), number of roots (9 root shoot -1) and root length (6 cm.). As for acclimatization, the highest surviving rate (90%) was obtained in the mediums: river soil, peat moss, Perlite and tree bark, peat moss, perlite at a ratio of 1:1:1 for each.