Raneem Shaddod*¹ , Wafaa Ghandor¹ and Mona Barakat²

1 Department of Botany, Faculty of science, Latakia University, Latakia, Syria.
2 Department of Soil and Water science. Faculty of Agriculture, Latakia University, Latakia, Syria
(*Corresponding author: Raneem Shaddod, Email: raneem.shaddod@latakia-univ.edu.sy). 

Received: 27/01 /2026       Accepted: 6/04 / 2026

Abstract: 

This research aims to analyze the changes in the distribution of erosion risk within the Baloran Dam Basin area using the CORINE model during the period from 2015 to 2025. The study was conducted in the Baloran Dam Basin area, where a map illustrating the spatial distribution of erosion and its risk levels was prepared and classified based on the CORINE model. The soil erodibility factor was calculated by assessing soil properties in terms of texture, depth, and percentage of gravel cover. These properties were classified according to their impact on soil erosion, and the necessary maps were prepared accordingly. On the other hand, the rainfall factor was calculated, and a slope map of the study area was prepared and classified according to its effect on soil erosion. Additionally, a potential erosion risk map was created using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) techniques. A land cover map for the study site for the years 2015 and 2025 was prepared and classified into two classes based on the level of protection they provide to the soil. Subsequently, an actual erosion risk map for the years 2015 and 2025 was prepared. The study results showed that areas with high erosion risk were concentrated in the western and southern parts of the studied sites. Furthermore, there was a decrease in the vegetation cover’s ability to reduce the area exposed to severe erosion risk in 2025 compared to 2015. The reduction rate in 2015 was about 16.22%, while in 2025 it was 9.95%, indicating severe degradation of the vegetation cover.

Keywords: Geographic Information Systems (GIS) ,  Water Erosion of Soil , Potential Erosion Risk,  CORINE Model ,  Baloran Dam , Latakia ,Syria.

 Full paper in Arabic: PDF

Camillia Halabi^1*

¹ Department of Food Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural Engineering, University of Latakia, Latakia, Syria.

(*Corresponding author: Camellia Halabi, Email: Camellia-halabi@latakia-univ.edu.sy)

Received: 4/11 / 2025               Accepted: 12/ 03/ 2026

Abstract: 

This study aimed to evaluate the combined effects of brine concentration (10%, 14%, 18%) and storage period (up to 90 days at 7°C) on the chemical and biochemical properties of Akkawi cheese. The results demonstrated a significant influence of both salt concentration and storage time on all analyzed variables. Increasing the brine concentration led to higher levels of total solids, ash, and salt, while the ripening index decreased. Conversely, extended storage resulted in a progressive increase in the ripening index and total solids, accompanied by a decrease in fat and protein content. The study concluded that a 14% brine concentration represents the optimal range, achieving a balance between flavor development, through sufficient proteolysis, and the preservation of texture and stability. These findings underscore the critical importance of precise control over both concentration and time to enhance the quality and safety of this traditional cheese.

Keywords: White-brined cheese, Akawei, brine concentration, storage period, proteolysis, ripening coefficient, chemical composition.

 Full paper in Arabic: PDF

Siba saied*¹ , Ghiath alloush¹ and Jihad ibrahem¹

1 Department of Soil and Water Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural Engineering, Lattakia University, Lattakia, Syria.
(*Corresponding author: Siba saied, Email: siba.saeed29@gmail.com). 

Received: 6/12 /2025    Accepted: 12/03 / 2026

Abstract: 

A column study was conducted (25 cm diameter filled with lomy soil 40 cm depth) in a greenhouse located Lattakia University in 2021. The experiment included three levels of organic matter (cow manure 0- 4 and 8%), and columns were completely randomized. The aim of the experiment was to investigate the effect of OM on P movement with depths 10- 20 and 30 cm using Lysimiters. The depth 40 cm constitutes water leachate. Measurements were followed weekly and up to 70 days. Soil sample from soil depths 10-20 and 30 cm were taken P-fractionation to study P-dynamic changes.Organic matter increased concentrations of MRP (molybdate reactive P) in soil solutions in depths (10-20-30) cm, which increased with increased OM application. Organic matter also increased the mobility of organic-P which was evident in the higher concentrations in the 20 and 30 cm soil depth, and closely correlated with organic carbon.Applied P remained more available for plants due to OM in which concentrations of biological available-P, organic P, and labile-P, being the highest in the 8% application of OM at all depths. Total amount of total dissolved P (TDP) leached over 70 days were 25.3- 62.4 and 96.2 mg P/column for treatments 0-4- and 8% organic matter, respectively, which possess an environmental hazard to nearby water surfaces. The increased P mobility was attributed to competitive sorption, organic complexation, and microbial activity stimulated by OM.

Keywords: P-fractionation, organic matter, available-P, P-leaching, dissolved carbon.

 Full paper in Arabic: PDF

Rana Al-Mansour*1, khetam Idris2 and Jamal Al-Ali1

1 College of Agricultural engineering – Homs University-Syria.
2 General Authority for Scientific Agricultural Research – Homs Research-Syria.
(*Corresponding author: Rana Al-Mansour, Email: ral986727@gmail.com).

Received: 18/ 01/ 2026     Accepted: 9/04 /2026

Abstract: 

The research aimed to analyze the economic return and comparative advantage of pistachio cultivation in the eastern Homs countryside, focusing on the impact of different landholding categories. The research adopted the Agricultural Policy Analysis Matrix (PAM) methodology to measure the effect of market distortions and government policies on crop profitability and resource allocation efficiency. Primary data was collected from a sample of 131 farmers during the 2024 agricultural season, divided into three landholding categories (small, medium, large). the crop showed high productive and economic efficiency across all landholding categories, with yields per dunum ranging from (182.94-240.55) kg. it was found that the crop in the small landholding category showed a strong comparative advantage, confirmed by low Domestic Resource Cost (DRC ≥ 0.136) values. However, policy analysis matrix indicators revealed an implicit tax on producers amounting to about 70% of their income (PSR ≈ -70%), due to local prices being a quarter of international prices (NPC0 = 0.248). The research concluded that current pricing policies limit the realization of the full economic value of the crop, despite its strong comparative advantage. the research recommends reconsidering pricing policies and designing a targeted support package to maximize the economic and social returns of the pistachio cultivation sector in Homs Governorate.

Keywords: Pistachio, Comparative Advantage, Agricultural Policy Analysis, Resource Efficiency, Market Distortions.

 Full paper in Arabic: PDF

Rama Daoud^1*

1 Department of Forestry and Environment, Faculty of Agriculture, Latakia University, Syria.
(*Corresponding author: Rama Daoud, Email: ramadaoud91@yahoo.com).

Received: 16/ 02/2026      Accepted: 8/04 /2026

Abstract: 

This study aimed to determine the degree of soil phytotoxicity in the Cedar and Fir Reserve (Slinfah area, Lattakia, Syria) following the 2020 wildfire. Phytotoxicity was used as an effective bio indicator to assess soil measuring biological activity in fire-affected soils. Soil samples were collected from the eastern slope of the reserve three years after the fire at two depths (0–10 cm and 10–30 cm). The sample included all fire-severity levels (low, moderate and high), in addition to unburned sites used as controls. The results revealed high phytotoxicity in soils exposed to high-severity fires, as evidenced by significant inhibition of root and shoot growth. Root and shoot lengths decreased by 40% and 52%, respectively, while root biomass declined by 29% compared with the control. This reduction may be attributed to the formation of toxic organic compounds that inhibit root elongation due to partial thermal decomposition of organic matter at elevated temperatures. In contrast, low-severity fires appeared to stimulate root and shoot growth, likely due to the release of nutrients from post-fire ash. The study also showed no significant effect of soil depth on root or shoot length, whereas depth had a significant effect on root biomass.

Keywords: Wildfire, Soil phytotoxicity, bioindicators, Cedar and Fir Reserve, fire severity.

 Full paper in English: PDF

Rafan Abd Al Hadi^1*

1 Department of Medical Biotechnology, National Commission for Biotechnology, Damascus, Syria.

(*Corresponding author: Rafan Abd Al Hadi, Email: r.abdalhadi@yahoo.com).

Received: 18/ 10/ 2025                 Accepted: 8/04 /2026

Abstract: 

Moringa Oleifera has received increased attention in recent years, due to its rich effective plant compounds, antioxidant properties and multiple therapeutic effects. This study aims to investigate the bioactive components, antioxidant activity, and antimicrobial effect of Moringa Oleifera leaf extracts grown on Syrian soil. Two extracts, one aqueous and the other alcoholic, were prepared from the powder of the dried leaves of this plant, and the content of phenolic compounds and macro-flavonoids in each of them was determined. The antioxidant activity was also evaluated by the method of inhibition of free radicals DPPH•, while the antibacterial effect on various bacterial strains, Gram-positive and Gram-negative, was tested by the method of diffusion on the agar medium. The results of the study revealed that the ethanol extract surpassed its aqueous counterpart in the content of phenols and total flavonoids, reaching values of 0.17 mgGAE/g DW and 0.16 mgQE/g DW in ethanol extract, compared to 0.14 mgGAE/g DW and 0.13 mgQE/g DW in the aqueous extract, respectively. The ethanol extract also recorded an inhibition rate of 93.5% compared to 92.88% for the aqueous extract. Both extracts showed greater effectiveness against Gram-negative bacteria than positive ones. The study concludes that the plant compounds contained in the aqueous and ethanol extracts of Moringa Oleifera leaves, have a high ability to resist oxidation and inhibit bacteria, which confirms that they are of extreme nutritional and therapeutic value.

Keywords: Antibacterial, Antioxidant, Phenols, Flavonoids, Moringa Oleifera.

 Full paper in English: PDF

Belal Al-Sayed*¹

1 Latakia City Council, Latakia, Syria.
(*Corresponding author: Belal Al-Sayed, Email: belalalsayed37@gmail.com, Phone: 0996704464). 

Received: 6/12 /2025       Accepted: 12/03 / 2026

This research was conducted in the city of Latakia during the years 2025, seven main streets were selected to analyze the plant diversity of urban street trees. The study employed a descriptive–analytical approach based on field inventory and the use of quantitative biodiversity indicators. It focused on identifying plant species, their spatial distribution and frequency, as well as calculating diversity and evenness indices. Hierarchical Cluster Analysis (HCA) was also performed to determine homogenous groups based on diversity and similarity. The results recorded 10 tree species belonging to 10 genera and 8 families. Saleh Al-Ali Street exhibited the highest richness and diversity, while Al-Thawra and Khalid Bin Al-Walid Streets showed the lowest diversity values. Aleppo Street demonstrated a distinct species composition that set it apart from the other surveyed streets. Analysis indicators revealed the highest similarity (60%) between Al-Kornish Al-Gharbi Street and Al-Maghreb Al-Arabi Street. The hierarchical analysis classified the streets into three main groups based on species diversity and similarity. A strong positive correlation was also observed between street length and the number of individual trees (R = 0.825). The study concludes that enhancing species diversity in urban afforestation programs and reducing reliance on dominant species are essential steps toward improving the sustainability of urban green infrastructure in Latakia.

Keywords: Street trees, biodiversity indices, Latakia, hierarchical analysis, A descriptive-analytical approach.

 Full paper in Arabic: PDF

Amali Al-Ahmad^1*, Bayan Muzher² , Ola Al-Halabi² and Muhammad Thaer Anqoud³ Hasan Rustam³

1Tartus Research Centre, General Commission for Scientific Agricultural Research, Syria.
2 Pome and Grapevine Department, Horticulture Research Administration, General Commission for Scientific Agricultural Research, Syria.
3 Sargaya Research Station, Damascus Countryside Research Centre, General Commission for Scientific Agricultural Research, Syria
(*Corresponding author: Dr Amali Abdo Al-Ahmad, Email: amale_alahmad@hotmail.com).

Received: 9/03 / 2026             Accepted: 22/04 / 2026

Abstract: 

The present study was conducted at Sarghaya Research Station (Damascus Countryside) during 2024-2025 on Golden Delicious apple trees grafted on MM106 to evaluate the effects of fruit thinning and summer pruning on bearing regularity. In the first season (heavy load), all treatments significantly reduced the percentage of remaining fruits after June drop and at harvest time. Yield decreased under summer pruning combined with chemical thinning (2.20 t/dunam) and manual thinning (2.40 t/dunam), compared with the control (2.53 t/dunam). In the second season (light load), summer pruning produced the highest fruit set (15.16%) and remaining fruits after June drop (13.63%), more than the control (10.23%, 8.46%, respectively). Manual thinning increased remaining fruit at harvest time (13.01). However, productivity improved with summer pruning+ chemical thinning and with chemical thinning alone. Overall, fruit thinning and applying summer pruning during heavy load season improved annual bearing regularity and increased production stability.

Keywords: apples, Golden Delicious, summer pruning, bearing alternation, productivity.

 Full paper in Arabic: PDF

Ahmed Shaheen^*1, Hoda Habbal ² and Bassam Al-oklah ³

1General Organization for Food Industries, Ministry of Economy and Industry, Damascus, Syria.
2 Department of Food Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural Engineering, University of Damascus, Damascus, Syria.
3 Department of Industrial and Food Technologies, General Authority for Biotechnology, Damascus, Syria.
(*Corresponding author:Eng. Ahmed Shaheen, E-Mail: ahmadshaheen684@gmail.com, Phone: 0998561438).

Received:1 /11 / 2025    Accepted: 24/02 / 2026

Abstract

The research was conducted during 2023-2024 at the Laboratory of the Faculty of Agriculture and the Industrial and Food Technology Laboratory at the General Authority for Biotechnology. The study aimed to examine the effect of the germination process and the addition of oats and quinoa on some quality indicators of non-alcoholic barley syrup. Several physical and chemical indicators were studied. The results showed that the germination process significantly (p<0.05) and positively affected the concentrations of total soluble solids, phenols, and antioxidant activity, with these indicators increasing from 3.20 to 10.40%, from 27 to 38.7 mg gallic acid equivalents/100 ml, and from 365 to 570 µg ascorbic acid equivalents/100 ml, respectively, in syrups prepared from germinated barley compared to syrups prepared from raw barley. The addition of quinoa to the germinated barley resulted in an increase in antioxidant activity, reaching 696.8 µg ascorbic acid equivalents/100 ml compared to the addition of oats. The results of the sensory evaluation showed that the germination process improved the sensory properties of the syrup compared to the non-germinated one, while significant differences in taste were recorded between the germinated barley syrup samples and the samples with added quinoa and germinated oat.

Keywords: barley syrup, germination, quinoa, oat, phenolics, antioxidant activity

 Full paper in Arabic: PDF

Rahaf Nezha*1 , Osama Radwan1 and Wael Ali1

1 Department of Forestry and Ecology, Faculty of Agricultural Engineering, Lattakia University, Lattakia, Syria.
(*Corresponding author: Rahaf Nezha, Email: rahafnezha2019@gmail.com)

Received:10 /12 / 2025        Accepted: 26/03 / 2026

Abstract: 

The study was conducted in 2024 at three tourist sites of Brutia pine (Pinus brutia) forests in the Latakia region: Al-Rawda (J1), Ballouran (J2), and Al-Nahr Al-Aswad (J3). The aim was to understand the dynamics of their plant communities and evaluate the impact of human pressures on them, through the use of a set of traditional biodiversity indicators (species richness, Shannon index, Simpson index, Jaccard index) and some developed indicators reflecting plant biodiversity (Indicator Value (IV)) in order to identify strongly indicative species, significantly indicative species at each site, and the Total Indicator Value (TIV) to classify the sites within the Brutia pine forests. The results showed a clear variation in species richness and diversity between sites. The results of the indicator value (IV) showed a set of species that are strong and significant indicators. Among the most notable of these species, Calycotome villosa was recorded as a significant indicator in J1, Poterium spinosum as a strong and significant indicator in J2, and Arbutus andrachne as a strong and significant indicator in J3. The use of traditional indicators and developed indicators demonstrates an integrated concept for evaluating tourist sites under the impact of human stress, providing a scientific basis for guiding conservation efforts and the sustainable management of these sensitive ecosystems.

Keywords: biodiversity, Pinus brutia, Indicator value, Total indicator value, tourist sites.

 Full paper in Arabic: PDF