Journal of Horticulture and Postharvest Research

Abstract Purpose: Maize output is decreasing in developing countries due to poor postharvest management despite the huge investments. The study is aimed at identifying and quantifying sources and causes of postharvest losses from farm to retail and suggest appropriate interventions for reducing these losses. Research Method: Commodity system assessment on postharvest handling, storage and marketing of maize was conducted between July and August, 2017 in Nigeria, Rwanda and Punjab (India) using surveys, interviews, observations, measurements and quantification of losses along the value chain. Postharvest quality and economic loss assessments along the chain were based on physical damage, decay and weight loss. Findings: Causes of postharvest losses at farm level are similar in all the countries studied, with sorting losses from 2 to 50% and drying losses from 10 to 40%. Damage and defects were extremely high in Rwanda at the farm level. Maize is stored for 5 to 10 months with 2 to 3.5% damage in Nigeria and 6% in Rwanda. Maize is stacked in sacks during wholesale and cleaning rejects obtained is 2 to 11% in Nigeria and India, little or no sorting in Rwanda at wholesale. Postharvest losses are 15%, 60% and 20% of total produce for Nigeria, Rwanda and Punjab, which account for economic losses of $720 million, $131.2 million and $8.2 million respectively. Limitations: The research is limited to major production areas in the three countries because of funding. Originality/Value: The study identified problems, sources and causes of post-harvest losses and suggests appropriate interventions, training needs and advocacy issues to reduce these losses.

Abstract Purpose: Selecting the most effective factors and their combination during food processing, is critical to reduce the energy consumption, the time of process and also maintaining the final product properties. Research method: A definitive screen design of response surface methodology was designed by Design Expert software. Factors such as drying time (A: 20-60 ℃), air velocity (B: 0.5-2.5 m/s), sample thickness (C: 3-7 mm), sample diameter (D: 4-6 cm), and drying time (E: 6000-10000s) were investigated. The treatments from response surface methodology were simulated in COMSOL software 5.3a. The simulated data such as moisture content, moisture ratio, central temperature of sample, and total shrinkage were used as surface responses in Design-Expert in order to find the effective process factors on orange drying. Findings: Orange drying simulations show the air temperature and its interaction with other process factors is effective on central temperature of samples. The moisture rate and moisture content depends on sample thickness and drying time, the shrinkage was a linear model as a function of thickness and process time. In orange samples, at thickness of 0.5mm, diameter of 4.8 cm, and drying time of 7379s the least shrinkage will occur according to prediction models. Research limitations: Calculating the experimental shrinkage, moisture ratio, and moisture rate were the research limitation for further simulation. Originality/Value: Combination the response surface methodology and COMSOL simulation in order to reducing the number of studied treatments. Finding the effective factors and their interactions and also the prediction model for final dried orange characteristics. Finding the shrinkage model of orange fruit with respect to the studied drying process factors.

Abstract Purpose: This study was undertaken to investigate the influence of harvest maturity and 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) treatment on exocarp colour development and chilling injury of ‘Hass’ avocado fruit during ripening. Research method: ‘Hass’ avocado fruit harvested at three different maturity stages, early (21% DM), mid-(28% DM) and late (35% DM) were treated with 300 g mol^-1 of 1-MCP for 16 hours and stored at 5.5 °C for 28 days, subsequently, ripened at 21 °C. The physico-chemicals quality parameters evaluated every 2 days includes exocarp subjective (visual colour), objective (lightness-L*, chroma-C* and hue angle-h^o), chlorophyll-a and -b, total anthocyanin, cyanidin 3-O-glucoside and chilling injury. Findings: 1-MCP delayed ripening for early and mid-matured fruit and extended ripening by 2-4 days when compared with untreated fruit. In this study, exocarp colour development of ‘Hass’ avocado fruit was improved by 1-MCP treatment as measured visual and objectively. The accumulation of total anthocyanins and cyanidin 3-O-glucosides in 1-MCP-treated fruit was slower than that in untreated fruit, however, 1-MCP treatment was associated with higher concentrations after fruit had reached ‘eat-ripe’ firmness, irrespective of maturity. The study found that 1-MCP reduced the development of chilling injury symptoms for early harvested and mid-harvested ‘Hass’ avocado fruit. Research limitations: The main limitation of the present study is the lack of evaluation of ethylene production. Originality/Value: The study found that different maturity stages of ‘Hass’ avocado fruit responded differently to 1-MCP treatment. Thus, 1-MCP had a positive effect on early and mid-harvest fruit exocarp colour and CI development during ripening.

Abstract Purpose: Nowadays preserve fresh-cut fruits' quality is a challenge for their short shelf life and sooner undesired sensorial changes that cause unacceptability by consumers. This study aims to apply individual and combined citric acid and calcium chloride treatments in fresh-cut kiwifruit to improve its physicochemical properties, antioxidant content, and sensory acceptance. Research method: Kiwifruit cv. Hayward was disinfected and cut into slices of 10 mm thickness. Samples g were immersed for one minute in sterile distilled water (control), CaCl₂ 0.5%, Citric acid 1%, the citric acid and CaCl₂ combination 1.0:0.5 (citric acid: CaCl₂, %) and stored for 12 days at 5 °C. The physicochemical parameters, total antioxidant capacity, microbial quality, and consumer acceptability were measured during the storage. Findings: Individual treatments of CaCl₂ conserve color parameters increasing luminosity,and citric acid treatment kept the titratable acidity under storage conditions. However, the combination treatments delayed kiwifruit's maturation process, avoiding weight loss under storage conditions for 12 days at 5 °C. Besides, other parameters like color, pH, and titratable acidity presented significant differences compared with citric acid, CaCl₂ individual treatments and untreated fruits. Moreover, the citric acid and CaCl₂ combination maintained phenolic content and antioxidant capacity by inhibiting DPPH and ABTS radicals. Meanwhile, the untreated control kiwifruits presented the lowest antioxidant activity at the end of storage. Finally, the kiwifruit-combined treatment did not show microbial growth and gave higher consumers acceptability than the untreated fruit. Limitations: No limitations were encountered. Originality/Value: This study showed that citric acid, calcium chloride, and their combination are useful to extend fresh-cut kiwifruit shelf life while maintaining antioxidant capacity and sensorial acceptability.

Abstract Purpose: The aim of this study was to identify the engineering, physiochemical, and nutritional properties of selected varieties of pomelo fruit. Research method: The study was carried out using a one-way analysis of variance with three replications on selected varieties of pomelo fruit. The experiment consisted of three cultivars, namely red, pink, and white pomelo to analyze the engineering, physiochemical, and nutritional properties. Findings: The results revealed that the geometrical and gravimetric analysis showed variation among different parameters of varieties of pomelo fruit. Textural property, such as the puncture resistance test was highest for the pink variety at 20.19 N. The color analysis in the optical parameter showed the highest values for the white variety of pomelo. The identification of functional compounds done by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy provides advancement for the production of different functional products. The assessment of physicochemical and nutritional properties provides knowledge of nutrients, essential minerals (boron, magnesium, aluminum, silicon, phosphorous, potassium, iron, copper, zinc), and quality of fruit, making it an expert functional food ingredient and can be utilized for various applications in food industries. The physicochemical and nutritional properties indicated significant variation (p<0.05) among different parts of selected varieties of pomelo fruit. Research limitations: There was no limitation. Originality/Value: Pomelo is an underutilized fruit with a rich source of bioactive compounds, has a favorable nutritional profile, and has health-improving effects. With its great nutritive value, utilization of this fruit is still very limited because of a lack of information regarding its physicochemical, nutritional, and processing technologies. This research work on different food properties provides a broad area of knowledge regarding designing, processing, storage, transportation, product development and is useful to encourage commercialization.

Abstract Purpose: Considering the role of nutrient supply in plant growth, the effect of single and simultaneous application of triple superphosphate (TSP) and phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB) on the growth and phosphorus uptake of pistachio seedlings were investigated. Research method: A study was conducted as a factorial experiment based on a completely randomized design with three replications under greenhouse conditions. The treatments include three levels of PSB [Control (PSB₀), Pseudomonsa sp. (PSB₁) and Pseudomonas fluoresens (PSB₂)] and three levels of P [Control (P₀), 15 mg P kg^-1 soil (P₁) and 30 mg P kg^-1 soil (P₂) as triple superphosphate]. Findings: the results indicated that application of TSP and PSB increased dry weight, plant height, total chlorophyll and carotenoids content and uptake of P in pistachio seedlings. Inoculation with PSB increased shoot dry weight (36%), root dry weight (44%), total chlorophyll (31%), carotenoids (30%), shoot P uptake (62%) and root P uptake (84%) in pistachio seedlings. Research limitations: By measuring other traits such as nutrient concentration, the response of pistachio seedlings to microbial inoculation can be more clearly interpreted. Originality/Value: Using of new insecticides with new and widespread mode of action can be recommended against postharvest pest in the practical entomology.

Abstract Purpose: This study reported for the first time, the postharvest management practices and estimated lost by roadside orange sellers in Oyo state, Nigeria. Research Method: Multistage sampling procedure was employed to select 120 respondents. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data. Data collected for specific objectives were analyzed and presented in frequency, percentages, mean, and standard deviation while the multiple regression analysis was performed to assess hypothesis of the study. Findings: Results showed that the roadside orange sellers had low level of education as 25.0% had no formal education while 47.5% had primary education. Under tent/umbrella (60.8%) are the main tent used to display oranges long the roadside. High profitability (81.7%) was the leading factors motiving marketing of oranges along the road side. The marketers (95.8%) moderately used postharvest management practices (PHMPs). The orange sellers incurred high loss of oranges up to 14.2% stored. Unfavourable weather condition (x̄=2.12) was the lead constraints to use PHMPs. Multiple linear regression showed that years of experience, average number of orange stocked and age showed significant relationship with the use of PHMPs. Limitations: There was no limitation. Originality/Value: Roadside orange sellers in Oyo state, Nigeria were moderate users (95.8%) of postharvest management practices and incurred 14.2% lost.

Abstract Purpose: Barberry has been used for many centuries due to its highly nutritious benefits, ornamental value, and medicinal properties. Iran is the largest producer of seedless barberry and this has been growing in various regions with dry climates, poor soil conditions and severe water shortages. Alternative bearing is a frequent problem in seedless barberry production. To avoid it, thinning has been employed as a common cultural practice in orchard management. Research method: In this study, three chemical thinners including gibberellic acid (GA₃) at 75, 100 and 150 mg/L, naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) at 10, 20 and 40 mg/L and ethephon at 50, 100 and 200 mg/L, and hand thinning (20%) were applied in a commercial orchard in Birjand, Iran, one week after petal fall. Thinning rate, quantitative and qualitative traits were investigated in comparison to the control in the split plot arrangement in a randomized complete block design during 2015 and 2016. Findings: Results showed that NAA at 10 mg/L caused the highest fruit abscission. Vegetative traits such as shoot length, number of leaves per shoot and leaf area showed significant increases under the treatments while shoot diameter had no significant difference with control. Chemical thinning remarkably enhanced the starch and sugar of the shoots, especially in “on” year (2015). The minimum chlorophyll content in “off” year was observed in control and the highest by NAA at 10 ppm. All the treatments increased seedless barberry shrub yield in the “off” year (2016). Biochemical traits such as ascorbic acid, total soluble solids, titratable acidity and anthocyanin improved in most treatments. Research limitations: No limitations were encountered. Originality/Value: To avoid alternative bearing in seedless barberry shrubs, thinning has been employed as a common cultural practice in orchard management. So, the application of NAA 10 mg/l is recommended for control of alternative bearing and also better fruit quality.

Abstract Purpose: This work aimed to evaluate whether salicylic acid (4.0 mM) is able to preserve the quality and antioxidant metabolism of avocado fruit 'Quintal' cultivar. Research method: 'Quintal' avocados harvested at physiological maturity were immersed in salicylic acid (SA) solution (0 and 4.0 mM) for 15 minutes at 25 ºC and stored at 15 ºC and 85 % RH for 16 days. The physical-chemical and biochemical quality parameters of the fruits were evaluated every four days. Findings: The treatment with SA (4.0 mM) reduced/delayed respiratory activity by up to two days compared to untreated fruits (control). There was also less loss of fresh mass, firmness, sugar synthesis (soluble solids), and degradation of organic acids (titratable acidity). In antioxidant metabolism, SA preserved the activity of phenylalanine ammonia lyase resulting in higher phenolic content, antioxidant activity, and lower polyphenoloxidase activity at the end of 16 days. Research limitations: One of the main limitations of this research is that ethylene production (a key player for climacteric fruit) was not measured in Avocado fruits during storage. Originality/Value: In addition to being the first report on the application of SA in postharvest avocados, our results demonstrate that SA (4.0 mM) is an effective and low-cost alternative to preserve the quality and antioxidant potential of avocados ‘Quintal’.

Abstract Purpose: Papaya is one of the most common fruits which has been produced in southern part of Iran for fresh consumption. Demand for fresh-cut products has increased due to the changes in consumer attitudes. However, fresh-cut papaya is prone to softening during storage. This study carried out to determine effects of calcium lactate and hot water treatments (HWT) for maintaining fresh-cut papaya quality. Research method: After preparing fresh cut cubes of papayas, the pieces were dipped in calcium lactate (CaL) or combined with HWT. Physico-chemical parameters including calcium concentration (Ca), firmness and soluble solids concentration, catalase and peroxidaseactivities, pectin methyl esterase (PME) and polygalacturonase activities (PG),total phenolic content and radical scavenging activities, and microbial growth were measured during 9 days of storage at 5 ^◦C. Findings: At the end of storage, CaL treatment combined with HWT increased calcium (Ca) concentration, catalase activity, total phenolic content and radical scavenging activities (DPPH) of papaya slices, but decreased peroxidase, PG and PME activities compared to the control. In addition, these treatments reduced microbial growth compared to the control. Limitations: No limitations were encountered. Originality/Value: Both HWT with CaL showed potential for increasing markeabitity on fresh cut papaya with their generally recognized as safe status for consumers.

Abstract Purpose: Dracocephalum kotschyi Boiss. belongs to the Lamiaceae family, is one of the important and endangered endemic species in Iran. The present study was conducted to investigate the effects of micronutrient elements application on the content and composition of essential oil of D. kotschyi Boiss. shoots in southwestern Iran (Shahrekord) in 2022 and 2023. Research Methods: Four foliar fertilizers including Fe, Cu, Zn and Mn were applied in 0, 20, 40 and 60 mg.l^-1 in RCBD design by factorial layout and 3 replications. Findings: Results obtained from gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC-MS) showed 14 essential oil components. According to obtained results, applied micronutrients significantly influenced the essential oil content/ composition of D.kotschyi. In both years, the highest content of essential oil (0.98-0.99 %) was obtained in plants treated with 40 mg.l^-1of micronutrients (Fe₂Cu₂Zn₂Mn₂) and the lowest content (0.59-0.66%) made by control plants (0 mg.l^-1), however the plants treated by 60 mg.l^-1of micronutrients in most characters were in a same group with the control plants. The most important chemical compounds that determine the quality of D. kotschyi essential oil including Neral (9.02-16.31%), Limonene (25.4-35.6%), Geranial (8.6-16.5%), Eucalyptol (3.89-8.01%) and Myrtenol (22.5-32.1%) were identified alcoholic monoterpenes. Limonene belonging to monoterpene hydrocarbons was the predominant constituent of the D. kotschyi. Limitations: There were no limitations to the report. Originality/Value: The foliar application of micronutrients at 40 mg.l^-1 (Fe, Cu, Zn and Mn) can be a good strategy to improve the essential oil quantity and quality of D.kotschyi in cold and semi-arid climates.

Abstract Purpose: Fruit ages (early, mid, and late harvest stages) of Haden, Kent, Palmer, and Keitt mango varieties were determined through age-control and established for physiological (early harvest) and eat-ripeness stages (mid and late harvests). This was followed by determining physicochemical properties at these stages that could be used as simple harvest indicators for export and local markets. Research Method: Randomized Complete Block Design and Completely Randomized Design with four replications in each case were used. For each of the four varieties, five mango trees were sampled at random in each of the four replications of a mango plantation when fruits were physiologically matured. Findings: Physiological and ripe maturity index values were 8.94, 6.88, 7.25, and 6.56 ^oBrix respectively, for soluble solids; 24.9, 8.5, 35.5, and 23.8 mg.100g^-1 respectively, for ascorbic acid; 3.25, 3.50, 3.33, and 3.49 respectively, for pH; and 18.5, 17.5, 19.5, and 17.0 ^oBrix respectively, for total soluble solids; 8.05, 3.32, 5.52, and 3.66 mg.100g^-1 respectively, for ascorbic acid; 5.11, 4.08, 5.00, and 5.80 respectively, for pH; respectively. Pulp colour (turning yellow) was nearly the same for the different varieties at physiological maturity but varied when ripe, with uniform consistent texture at both stages.Limitations: No limitations to report. Originality/Value: Fruit should be harvested after full maturity in order to develop the most adequate organoleptic quality and the longest post-harvest life, and before full ripeness but should never be over-ripe or immature for any purpose unless otherwise.

Abstract Purpose: Caladium bicolor is highly valued as both a landscape and indoor plant, primarily for its decorative appeal stemming from its diverse leaf shapes and vibrant, multicolored foliage. LED (light-emitting diode) lighting serves as a cost-efficient and potent means of promoting plant growth and development. The impact of different LED lights was investigated on callus induction, regeneration, and plantlet growth of two cultivars of Caladium bicolor (‘White’ and ‘Red’). Research Method: Leaf explants were cultured on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with 1.5 mg L^-1 IBA and 1 mg L^-1 BA and moved to racks equipped with various LED lighting (100% red lights (R), 100% blue lights (B), 50% blue + 50% red lights (B+R), and 100% white fluorescent lamps (W)). Findings: Results showed W light was the best for maximum callus induction, leaf number, and plantlet height in both cultivars. Red + blue LED light spectrum motivated proliferation percentage of callus in both cultivars as compared to other light spectra. Conservation of ‘White’ caladium plantlets in R and B light spectra resulted in no hyperhydric micro shoot formation incidences. When examining various growth characteristics, it was evident that the B+R light spectrum of ‘Red’ caladium showed the best performance, while the B light spectrum in both cultivars had the least favorable outcomes compared to all other light spectra. Research limitations: There was no limitation. Originality/Value: Our findings offer a deeper understanding of how the quality of LED light impacts the in vitro propagation of caladium, potentially enhancing the cultivation of these plantlets through specific spectral exposure.

Abstract Purpose: The type of pre-storage treatments has a significant effect on the fruit quality at postharvest storage. In this study, the effects of some physical and chemical treatments on the quality and storage properties of 'Siaverz' local orange in the cold storage were investigated. Research method: This research was conducted as a factorial experiment with factors of different treatments and storage time. Treatments were wax paper, Rovral-TS fungicide, wax, hot salty solution, Rovral-TS fungicide+wax paper, hot salty solution+wax paper, Rovral-TS fungicide+wax, hot salty solution+wax, and control. The fruits were stored at 8°C and examined monthly. Findings: Increasing the storage period for 90 days in control, wax paper, fungicide, fungicide+wax, and hot salty solution+wax treatments resulted in an increase in the soluble solids compared to the 30-day treatment. The increase in the storage period was accompanied by a decrease in titratable acidity. As the storage period progressed, the percentage of weight loss increased constantly. Hot salty solution+wax and wax paper treatments showed the lowest weight loss. The highest taste index was related to the control treatment and then the wax paper. The firmness of fruit tissue was reduced after 90 days of storage. Research limitations: No limitations were found. Originality/Value: The wax paper treatment and the combination treatment of hot salty solution+wax can be recommended to maintain the quality of 'Siaverz' local orange during the storage period for 90 days.

Abstract Purpose: One of the most important subtropical fruits in Iran is Japanese persimmon. Persimmon is a climacteric fruit and continues to ripening after the harvest. One of the main quality components in persimmon fruit is its appearance due to the presence of different carotenoid pigments. Persimmon has also high antioxidant capacity. The use of LED lights is one of the most important commercial techniques to increase the quality and postharvest life of the fruits. In the present study, the effect of LED lights on the coloring and antioxidant capacity of persimmon fruit was studied. Research method: The Karaj genotype of persimmon was harvested at commercial stage and exposed to white and red LED lights (at intensity of 40-60 candle/W) up to 21 days at 10°C and 80% RH, as the control fruit was stored at dark conditions. Findings: The results showed that the samples of red LED light had higher color index and lower hue° and L * values as compared to control or white LED light samples. Therefore, the red light induced the coloring in persimmon fruit, but the white light did not show such an effect. Also, both white and red LED lights have resulted in better preservation and increased antioxidant capacity in persimmon fruit as compared to control. Research limitations: No limitations were encountered. Originality/Value: based on the results of this experiment, LED lights are effective treatments in maintaining and increasing the quality of Japanese persimmon at the postharvest stage, and have potential to further investigation and commercialization.

Abstract Purpose: Lemon (Citrus limon) is a highly important citrus species worldwide. However, its semi-tropical nature makes it susceptible to chilling, extensive research on postharvest treatments to preserve its quality under low temperatures. Research Method: The treatments included 500 μM melatonin (M), 50 μM methyl jasmonate (J), and 5 mM gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). Lemons stored at 3 ± 1°C and a relative humidity of 85-95% for 100 days plus 5-day shelf life. Findings: The results revealed that most of the experimental treatments, except for the combination of GABA + J and GABA + J + M, significantly reduced fruit weight loss. Notably, the melatonin treatment showed a 22.7% lower weight loss compared to the control fruits. Furthermore, the melatonin treatment exhibited the highest fruit firmness (49 N), while the control treatment had the lowest (36.3 N). Regarding the quality parameters, individual treatments, and the GABA + M treatment resulted in significantly higher total soluble solids (TSS) and a lower TSS/TA compared to the control at the end of the storage period. Except for the M + GABA and M + J treatments, all other treatments showed higher ascorbic acid content compared to the control. Additionally, the melatonin treatment showed significant differences in various color indices compared to the control. Research limitations: There was no limitation. Originality/Value: Overall, fruits treated with M, J, GABA, and GABA + M demonstrated higher marketability compared to the control and other treatments. Consequently, it is recommended to utilize these treatments individually rather than in combination to maintain the quality of lemon fruits.

Abstract Purpose: Recently, there are researches showed positive effects of nano-chitosan in prolonging the postharvest quality and shelf life of strawberry, however, influences of storage temperatures on the nano-chitosan coated fruit have been overlooked. Therefore, in this work, changes of physiological traits of strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.) coated with 0.2% nano-chitosan and stored at different temperatures were studied. Research Method: Strawberry was coated with 0.2% nano-chitosan and stored at different temperatures (2°C, 5°C, 10°C and 25°C) for 12 days. The effects of temperatures on the coated fruits were tested by measuring visual quality, weight loss, antioxidant properties, malondialdehyde content, firmness, total soluble solid, polyphenol oxidase activity in three days intervals. Findings: After storing 0.2% nano-chitosan coated strawberry at four different temperatures, 2°C showed the most effective one as maintaining the overall quality of strawberry higher than the acceptable/marketable level after 12 days; meanwhile, fruits stored at 25°C were quickly decayed after 3 days. The treatments at low temperatures (2°C, and 5°C) significantly reduced weight loss, maintained firmness, total soluble solid, polyphenol oxidase activity and malondialdehyde content of the stored fruits. Limitations: Nano-chitosan has not been widely traded. Originality/Value: Coating strawberry with nano-chitosan and storing at 2°C effectively maintained the postharvest quality of strawberry as well. This treatment is quite simple and would be useful for stakeholders in the strawberry supply chain. 

Abstract Purpose: Apple is one of the commercially most important fruits hosting a wide range of postharvest diseases that can threaten grower economy resulting in a yearly yield loss. Fungal diseases are the major problem in many countries, especially in organic culture as well as in countries with humid condition. Among the postharvest diseases, blue mold (caused by Penicillium expansum) is one of the most important. This disease is very destructive on apple, not only due to the economic damage but also because of mycotoxin patulin production. Research method: In the present study, we used wound inoculation and fruit trait data along with a large set of SNP data from the Axiom^®Apple 480 K array to explore possible QTLs associated with rate of lesion decay, ripening period, fruit firmness and softening. Findings: Due to the very large number of SNPs in the present study, the significance threshold (5.63) was higher than in most other Genome-Wide Association Studies. However, some close to significant associations involving lesion decay were found on linkage group 3 (LG3), spanning a distance of 537 Kb (from 30,527,077 to 31,064,205). Interestingly, two SNPs associated with ripening period were also found on LG3 at the same position (30,494,523–30,885,771). Research limitations: This study could be extended with inclusion of more cultivars from different locations in order to minimize the impact of environment and to enhance the study power. Originality/Value: Although the genetic mechanism of blue mold resistance seems to be controlled by several genes in apple, our results indicate a possible association on LG3 which needs to be further investigated for candidate gene targeting. This finding may help to understand the genetic mechanism of blue mold disease in apple.

Abstract Purpose: In some orchards in the harvest season, the pomegranates are suspected to carob moth infestation. Visible infested fruits are removed but there is a possibility of hidden infestation. The effect of microwave heating on this hidden infestation was investigated in this study. Research Method: The mature pomegranate fruits were artificially infested with the eggs or larvae (1^st, 2^nd and 3^rd) of the carob moth inside the crown. Microwave radiation was focused on the crown zone of infested pomegranate with a novel setup and its effect on pest mortality was studied. The experiments were carried out at three microwave powers (540, 720 and 900 W) and three heating times (4, 6 and 8 minutes). In order to study the effect of microwave heating treatments on pomegranate, quality parameters including appearance, weight loss, total soluble solids (TSS), pH, titratable acidity (TA) and taste index (TSS/TA) of the samples were investigated after 60 days’ storage. Findings: The egg and larval mortality rose with microwave power and heating time. The mortality was reduced with increasing the age of pest. There were no significant differences among values of quality factors except for titratable acidity. Because of 100% mortality with no significant differences on quality parameters, 6 min treatment time with 720 microwave power was selected as the optimum treatment. Research limitations: Energy consumption in microwave heating limits the application of this method in practice. Originality/Value: Microwave local heating of the pomegranate crown is an effective novel method to remove carob moth in hidden infestation.

Abstract Purpose: The limited shelf life of Mexican lime fruits when stored under ambient conditions is a significant challenge. The progressive color alteration and loss of freshness can lead to reduced marketability and increased its waste. Research Method: The objective of this research was to preserve the storage quality of Mexican lime fruit by employing chitosan 1.5%, chitosan 1.5% + spirulina algae (Sp) (1%), and Moringa oleifera (Mo) leaf extracts (1%) at 20 ± 2 °C and 50-60% relative humidity for 24 days. Findings: The findings indicated that the samples coated with chitosan + Sp experienced a significantly lower weight loss compared to the control (19.8%) fruit after 24 days of storage, with a weight loss of 16.4%. A significant difference was observed between the control and treated fruit in terms of a* color parameter, with the highest value found in the control group (2.5) and the lowest value found in the chitosan-treated group (-6.7). The treated fruit exhibited significantly higher levels of phenol and flavonoid content compared to the control group. After the 24 days of storage, the chitosan 1.5% + Sp treatment displayed the highest antioxidant activity (88.66%), followed closely by the chitosan + Mo treatment (88.76%), while the control group exhibited the lowest antioxidant activity (78.75%). The treatments exhibited a significant decrease in polyphenol oxidase (PPO) enzyme activity compared to the control group, accompanied by an increase in the activity of peroxidase (POD) and catalase (CAT) enzymes. Research limitations: There was no limitation. Originality/value: Generally, the utilization of chitosan edible coatings, specifically chitosan combined with spirulina algae, has shown promising results in preserving the quality and extending the shelf life of Mexican lime fruit stored at 20 ± 2 °C.

Abstract Purpose: This study investigates the influence of ultrasonic-homogenized alginate-based coatings on the quality and shelf-life of fresh-cut pineapple. As preservation of fresh-cut produces is still a challenging task for both producers and distributors. Research method: Alginate emulsion was prepared using sodium alginate, distilled water and glycerol. The primary emulsion was formulated by adding olive oil, citral and cinnamic acid into sodium alginate solution and subjected to ultrasonic homogenization for varying durations (0, 20, 40, and 60 minutes) at a fixed amplitude of 20 kHz. Changes in physicochemical properties, microbial activity, browning enzymes and sensory evaluation were studied after application of emulsions followed by storage under refrigeration. Findings: The viscosity of the resulting solutions decreased significantly from 110.84±25.67 mPa×s to 17.75±1.59, 10.41±0.54, and 7.74±0.39 mPa×s, respectively, while the average droplet diameter decreased to approximately 300 nm, indicating a shift from heterogeneous to homogeneous particle size distribution. Application of alginate-based coating effectively preserved freshness of pineapple, maintaining color and firmness, minimizing hydrogen peroxide and malondialdehyde accumulation and reducing weight loss percentage. Furthermore, it retained levels of ascorbic acid and total phenolics, delayed enzymatic activities such as polyphenol oxidase, peroxidase and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase and inhibited growth of mesophilic bacteria, yeasts and molds compared to control and primary emulsion coated samples. Research limitations: There were no limitations. Originality/Value: The study extended shelf-life of fresh-cut pineapple up to 12 days when stored at 5°C±1°C. The findings underscore the efficacy of ultrasonic-homogenized alginate coatings in improving coating solution homogeneity, thereby enhancing functionality as an edible coating for fresh-cut pineapple preservation.

Abstract Purpose: The use of natural and organic products increases to produce a healthy product free of pollutants. Tea seeds contain 15-20% oil, which used as edible oil and an organic pesticide. In previous years, these seeds were used to produce tea seedlings. But now, cuttings are used for tea propagation and seeds are a byproduct of tea production. Therefore, this study aims to compare the effect of TSO with commercial wax on post-harvest quality of Citrus sinensis cv. Moro. Research method: An experiment was done as Completely Randomized Design; fruits were coated with control (distilled water), commercial wax (XEDASOL- MX20), and tea seed oil. The fruits were stored for 60 days in cold storage. The weight of the fruit skin, the contents of juice, total soluble solids, titratable acidity, and anthocyanins of the fruit were measured. Findings: The results showed that fruits coated with commercial wax and tea seed oil have the lowest fruit weight loss, the highest percentage of TSS (10.42%), the most top content of anthocyanins (15.17 mg/l) and flavonoids (196.17 mg/l) that there was a significant difference with control. The lowest titratable acidity (2.28%) was observed in fruits impregnated with tea seed oil, and there was a considerable difference with control. In general, the effect of tea seed oil was similar to commercial wax. Limitations: No limitations were founded. Originality/Value: These results indicate that the application of tea seed oil proved to be effective in extending the quality and storage time of Citrus sinensis (cv. Moro).

Abstract Purpose: Diverse commercial cultivars as well as wild pomegranate genotypes are widespread throughout Iran. Such diversity considered as backbone of breeding programs. This study was aimed to comparative analysis of fruit traits of eight local pomegranate cultivars and a well-known, commercially adapted, “Wonderful” cultivar. Research method: The fruits were harvested and transferred to the laboratory. The fruit, aril and skin parameters were measured and the data was analyzed as completely randomized design with three replications. Findings: The results clearly showed diverse differences among cultivars. The highest fruit weight, length, width, aril weight, aril diameter, aril fresh/dry weights, skin fresh/dry weights were found in “Gavkoshak”. The highest calyx length and skin thickness were recorded in “Galookandeh”. The “Torsh Oud”, “Faroogh”, “Galookandeh” and “Rubab” were detected to have hard seeds. The highest TSS, skin / aril anthocyanin and sucrose content were found in “Wonderful”. The maximum amount of glucose and fructose were observed in the “Rubab”. The results finally showed that “Gavkoshak” and “Rubab” cultivars had the greater ranks in terms of their physical fruit parameters. In terms of chemical properties, the best cultivars were “Wonderful” and “Rubab”. The “Rubab”, “Gavkoshak” and “Wonderful” are recommended as superior cultivars for either pomegranate production or future breeding programs. Limitations: There was no limitation. Originality/Value: The “Wonderful” is an introduced one and the comparative analysis of pomegranates of Fars origin concurrently with this new plant material would be valuable. Furthermore, the pomological traits of these local cultivars were not also studied earlier.

Abstract Purpose: Grape (Vitis vinifera L.) is one of the most important horticultural products that are grown in different parts of Iran and has high nutritional values. In this study, the genetic diversity of cultivars and genotypes of some vineyards of Markazi province were investigated for the preliminary selection of superior cultivars and genotypes in terms of morphological and fruit characteristics for use in grape breeding programs. Research method:  For this purpose, grouping and comparing 84 grape cultivars and genotypes were carried out using 70 traits including phenological and vegetative traits, trichome and stomata, bunch and berry traits. Findings: Based on the results, the “Sahebi Hazaveh” cultivar with 1000.17 g had highest an average bunch weight to compare other cultivars and genotypes.  Results showed that, some traits such as bunch weight, bunch shoulders, fresh weight, rachis weight, the ratio of bunch weight to peduncle weight, the ratio of rachis weight to bunch weight, dry weight of bunch shoulders, length of the tail of bunch, berry weight, pedicel weight, seed weight and length of seed had a high coefficient of variation. Factor analysis reduced the evaluated traits to 10 main factors showed that they justified 78.38% of the total variance. Cluster analysis divided cultivars and genotypes into 4 main groups at five Euclidean distances. Limitations: No limitations were encountered. Originality/Value: This study indicated that grapes germplasm resources in zone are of noticeable diversities and can be promising for the utilization in the breeding programs. Based on the results, cultivars and genotypes of “Khalili Khondab” region, “Yaghouti”, “Sahebi”, “Fakhri”, “Kharvand” and “Kondori” Hazaveh region and “Sahebi” Aghbolagh region in leafing time, late flowering, sugar percentage, bunch and berry characteristics, stomatal density, standing and lying trichome density in leaves were superior to other cultivars and genotypes.

Abstract Purpose: The ‘Braeburn’ apple, cultivated in Mashhad, Iran, has poor red coloration that affecting its marketability. This research studied the effects of mono-potassium phosphate (MKP) and calcium prohexadione (ProCa) on red pigment development and biochemical traits, as well as interactions with two rootstocks used for grafting. Research method: The experimental treatments included four concentrations of MKP (0, 0.1, 1.0, and 2.0 g/L) sprayed in three periods: 20 days after petal fall, 45 and 30 days before commercial fruit harvest. Furthermore, ProCa was also applied in four concentrations (0, 125, 250, and 500 mg/L), one month before harvest (three times with 10-day intervals). Findings: The results showed that M.9 rootstock led to larger fruit diameters compared to MM.111, but overall physical traits remained unchanged. Chemical applications significantly affected fruit diameter and firmness, with ProCa treatments (250 and 500 mg/L) yielding the highest firmness levels. Rootstock type influenced total acidity (TA), total soluble solids (TSS), flavor index, and vitamin C content. M.9 rootstock combined with MKP spray resulted in the best TA, TSS, and flavor index. However, higher ProCa concentrations negatively impacted color development and anthocyanin levels. Thus, cultivating red apple cultivars in low-altitude regions like Mashhad is not recommended due to environmental factors affecting pigmentation. Research limitations: There was no apple orchard of the same variety located in a higher altitude within the same region for a comparative analysis. Originality/Value: The article clearly emphasizes that the orchard establishment of the ‘Braeburn’ apple is not technically authorized for low altitude places (lower than 1000 m).