shahram aramideh

The present study was designed to evaluate the effect of different heights and times of UV-C radiation on the egg and 3rd nymphal stage of Trialeurodes vaporariorum (Westwood) and the oviposition and emergence rate of Encarsia formosa Gahan. In this study, four different times and three heights were selected for irradiation. The analysis of variance showed that there is no interaction between different times and heights of radiation on eggs and nymphs’ mortality, but their effects were found to be significant separately. The mortality rates of eggs and the third nymphal stage rose with longer exposure times and lower irradiation heights. Conversely, the emergence of parasitoids from the parasitized-irradiated third nymphal stage decreased as the duration of exposure increased and the height of irradiation diminished. In assessing the oviposition preferences of E. formosa through both choice and non-choice methods, the results showed that there is no significant difference between the irradiated nymphs and the control treatment, but the emergence of E. formosa was significantly affected, and the highest emergence was observed in the non-irradiation treatment. In addition, an analysis of the impact of varying irradiation heights for 72-hour period on the chlorophyll index of pinto bean leaves revealed no significant differences between the chlorophyll index of the treatments and the control. Therefore, the concurrent application of the parasitoid E. formosa and UV-C radiation for the integrated management of this pest is not advisable.

The gypsy moth, Lymantria dispar L., is one of the most significant pests of forest and orchard trees, feeding on a wide range of tree and shrub species. Larval feeding on tree leaves is a common occurrence that severely impacts tree growth and productivity. Even if infested trees do not die, they experience significant reductions in growth and yield in subsequent years, leading to irreversible damage. Chemical control poses serious risks, including the destruction of natural enemies, pest resistance, secondary pest outbreaks, and environmental pollution. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of botanical pesticides Neemarin and Matrine, in combination with the microbial pesticide Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki (Btk), for controlling L. dispar larvae.

Egg masses of L. dispar were collected from infested black poplar (Populus nigra L.) trees on the Nazloo campus of Urmia University in 2023 and reared on fresh poplar leaves in a growth chamber. The leaves were replaced daily with fresh ones. The microbial pesticide used was the commercial formulation Belthirul, based on Btk (Problet, Madrid, Spain). Neemarin (Neemarin EC15%) is an Azadirachta indica Juss A. extract containing azadirachtin, manufactured in India and procured from the Iranian Research Institute of Plant Protection. Matrine (brand name: Rui Agro) is a contact and oral insecticide derived from Sophora flavescens Ait., produced in China under the supervision of Ecocert France. Bioassay experiments were conducted to assess the effects of Neemarin, Matrine, and Btk individually and in combination on second and third instar larvae. Additionally, the impact of sublethal concentrations (LC25) of these compounds on pest metamorphosis (larval-to-pupal and pupal-to-adult transformation) was evaluated under laboratory conditions using a germinator (27±2 °C, 65±5% relative humidity). The effectiveness of recommended concentrations was also tested on third instar larvae under field conditions.

Probit analysis of different concentrations of Neemarin (150.00, 267.50, 385.00, 502.50, 620.00 ppm), Matrine (22.50, 38.25, 54.00, 69.75, 85.50 ppm), and Btk (300.00, 712.50, 1125.00, 1537.50, 1950.00 ppm) after 24 and 48 hours showed that Matrine had higher toxicity (lower LC50) than Neemarin and Btk. The combined treatments demonstrated significant differences (P<0.05), with the Neemarin+Matrine+Btk mixture causing the highest larval mortality after 72 hours in both instars. Under field conditions, the highest third instar larval mortality was observed in the Neemarin+Matrine treatment, followed by Matrine+Btk. Evaluating sublethal concentrations of Neemarin (136.94 ppm), Matrine (15.92 ppm), and Btk (302.75 ppm) on larval metamorphosis revealed that Neemarin had the highest inhibitory effect on larval transformation to pupae and pupal development into adults.

Given the limitations and adverse effects of chemical pesticides, the use of biological and botanical alternatives for pest control is essential. The results of this study demonstrated that these biological compounds, both individually and in combination, effectively control L. dispar larvae under laboratory and field conditions. Additionally, sublethal concentrations significantly disrupted the pest’s life cycle. Therefore, these bio-insecticides, particularly in combination, can be recommended as effective alternatives for managing L. dispar larvae and similar pests in forests and orchards.

The wax moth (Galleria mellonella L.) is one of the most important pests of Apis mellifera beehives. Then, the aim of this study is to use bacteria (Bacillus thuringiensis B.) and nuclear polyhedrosis virus (NPV) main and combined effects on the wax moth third-instar larvae in laboratory conditions. Large wax moth larvae were collected from apiaries and transported to the laboratory and reared to laying. After bioassay and determination of LC50 and LC25 of bacteria and virus, their combined effect on third instar larvae was assessed. In order to determine the lethality of the compounds, the mortality of larval ages modified with the Abbott equation and were analyzed by probit analysis and LC50 values were calculated. Analysis of variance and comparing the means was carried out using SPSS software var. 22. Our results reveal that the highest and the lowest mortality were related to the treatment of the combined biological agents (LC25 NPV+LC25B.t) and the control treatments, respectively. The effect of sublethal dose (LC15) of B. thuringiensis and NPV on the conversion of larval stage to pupal stage and pupal stage to adult insect according to the mean of treatments, the highest conversion was related to the control treatment and the lowest was related to NPV treatment. Our results showed that, although both B. thuringiensis and NPV are effective in controlling the larval stage of the wax moth, the combined form of these two biological agents is more effective in the integrated management of this pest.

Tetranychus urticae Koch is one of the major pests of many agricultural crops. The application of effective pesticides with novel mechanism of action is one of the common strategies in integrated management programs. In the present study, the effect of different concentrations of cyenopyrafen were assesed on the biological parameters of the T. urticae in laboratory conditions (25±3 °C, 65±5% RH, and photoperiod 8:16 h (light: dark). The assessment was conducted through a spraying method and involved analyzing the age-stage, two-sex life table across two successive generations. The LC50 value of cyenopyrafen was determined to be 250.945 ppm for protonymph stage. Among the sublethal concentrations of LC10, LC20, and LC30, the LC30 concentration exhibited the most significant impact on biological and reproductive parameters. This concentration resulted in a decrease in the oviposition rate, a reduction in the duration of the oviposition period, and a shortened lifespan for both male and female individuals in the first generation. The sub-lethal concentrations of cyenopyrafen also affected the progeny of treated protonymphs and caused an increase in the duration of the egg, larvae, protonymph, and deutonymph stage and a decrease in the adult lifespan of the female from 22.26 to 18.21 days, and this process caused a reduction in the fecundity rate from 45.63 to 28.86 eggs and the length of the oviposition period from 17.13 to 13.17 days. Consequently, the intrinsic rate of population increase was diminished, recorded at 0.20±0.51 day-1 in the control group and 0.15±0.051 day-1 at the LC30 concentration, with the most pronounced negative impact observed at the LC30 level. The population growth trend observed at the LC30 sublethal concentration was slower compared to the control. It is advisable to examine the impact of cynopyrafen on T. urticae within both greenhouse and field conditions for its application in integrated management.

Bacillus thuringiensis serves as an effective biopesticide in controlling specific pests. Nonetheless, exposure to solar ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a significant factor that contributes to the degradation of the spores and crystals of this bacterium. Therefore, research on protective compounds against UV radiation is essential. In this study, the effects of activated charcoal, graphene oxide, and nanographene oxide in preserving the pathogenicity of B. thuringiensis var. kurstaki (Btk) against ultraviolet radiation on the beet armyworm, Spodoptera exigua (Hübner) were investigated under laboratory and field conditions. The probit analysis of concentrations of Btk on second-instar larvae of the S. exigua after 48 and 72 hours in the laboratory showed that LC50 was 1149.62 and 729.13 ppm, respectively. Additionally, the study examining the impact of UVC on the pathogenicity of Btk indicated that larvae exposed to UVC-treated Btk experienced lower mortality rates compared to those exposed to the non-irradiated bacterium. The variance analysis regarding the impact of UV radiation on spore germination, when using protective agents in comparison to the control group, demonstrated that activated charcoal showed the more effective results. Additionally, an analysis of variance regarding the UV-protective properties of the treatments in preserving the effectiveness of Btk against second-instar larvae conducted under both laboratory and field conditions revealed that activated charcoal had a higher protective effect compared to other treatments. Based on the results, activated charcoal is recommended for use with Btk against this pest. Activated charcoal can be suggested for inclusion in formulations of this biopesticide to protect it from solar UV radiation

The oak leaf roller, Tortrix viridana L., is one of the most important pests in oak forests in Iran. This pest tops the list of domestic and quarantine forest pests and its larvae cause heavy damage to oak trees by feeding on the reproductive buds and leaves of trees. Considering the destructive and harmful effects of chemical pesticides, especially biological control using natural enemies and plant compounds as alternative methods, have been used as integrated pest management solutions. Among the biological factors, the insect pathogen, Bacillus thuringiensis B. has a special place due to its many advantages such as specific effect on the larvae of lepidoptera order, insignificant effect on the environment and non-target organisms, as well as the ease of integrating with other control methods in the management of agricultural and forest pest control. Studies have shown that this bacterium exhibits synergistic properties when combined with specific plant tannins. The organic acids like tannic acid, when mixed with B. thuringiensis, can serve as synergists in controlling various pest larvae. Willow tree species, due to their salicin content in the bark, possess medicinal and industrial properties. Salicin, as a plant tannin, can be effective when combined with B. thuringiensis in controlling oak leaf rollers. Additionally, salicylic acid, due to its phenolic composition, is one of the essential growth factors in plants. This substance, as a secondary metabolite, is produced in plants. The role of salicylic acid as a critical compound in plant response to abiotic stresses has been well established. Salicylic acid is water-soluble and acts as an antioxidant, playing a vital role in plant responses to non-living stresses such as drought, cold, heavy metals, heat, and osmotic stress. It seems to enhance metabolic responses, affecting plant photosynthetic parameters and water relations. Therefore, this study was conducted to extract and measure salicylic acid in babylonian willow (Salix babylonica), white willow (S. alba), and goat willow (S. caprea) and assess its impact in combination with B. thuringiensis on the oak leaf roller, T. viridana.

The bark of babylonian willow, white willow, and goat willow was collected, dried, and powdered in spring and summer. Sample extraction was carried out using a soxhlet apparatus, and the extract purification was done using a rotary device. Salicylic acid extraction was performed according to the TAPPI standard using ethanol as a solvent. Subsequently, the lethal concentrations (LC50) of B. thuringiensis obtained from bioassays were combined with salicylic acid concentrations of 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9% from the willow species and applied to third and fourth instar oak leaf roller larvae. In this experiment, insects treated were considered dead if no movement was observed upon close approach with a hot needle to their legs and thoracic appendages after 48 hours. Each treatment in this research was replicated three times.

The results showed that the total extractable material percentages in the bark of babylonian, white and goat willow were 23.55, 36.25, and 20.75%, respectively. The salicylic acid content in the bark extract of babylonian, white, and goat willow was found to be 15.20, 20.10, and 14.70%, respectively. The mortality rate (LC50) of B. thuringiensis on third and fourth instar oak leaf roller larvae 48 hours after treatment was 659.77 and 742.45 ppm, respectively. The mortality rates of third and fourth instar oak leaf roller larvae in combination with 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9% salicylic acid extracted from babylonian, white and goat willow along with B. thuringiensis 's LC50 showed significant differences. Higher percentages of salicylic acid led to an increase in mortality of third instar oak leaf roller larvae in all three willow species. The results of combining salicylic acid extract with B. thuringiensis at all concentrations showed that the combination of salicylic acid extracted from white willow with B. thuringiensis had the highest mortality rate compared to the other two treatments on third instar larvae. In fourth instar larvae, the combination of salicylic acid extracted from white willow with the LC50 concentration of bacteria was higher in three concentrations, 5, 7, and 9%, compared to the other two treatments.General

The results of this study demonstrated that B. thuringiensis have insecticidal effects on oak leaf roller larvae and when combined with salicylic acid extracted from three willow species (babylonian willow, white willow, and goat willow), they exhibit better control effects on the mortality of this pest, with the best effectiveness observed with salicylic acid extracted from white willow. Based on the results of this research, it is possible to utilize the bark of various willow species, especially white willow, for extracting salicylic acid and employing it in combination with B. thuringiensis in managing this important forest pest.

Alfalfa, Medicago</em> sativa</em> L. from the leguminous family, is among the best fodder plants due to its richness in protein, calcium, vitamins, palatability, and low percentage of cellulose, which is called green gold. Alfalfa</em> is the first crop that was domesticated and cultivated as fodder. Alfalfa leaf weevil, Hypera</em> postica </em>Gyllenhal, is one of the important pests of alfalfa fields in Iran. Its main damage is related to the larval stage, caused by feeding on the plant leaves, especially in the first cut. The most common method of controlling this pest is using chemical pesticides, which cause pesticide residues, the death of natural enemies, resistance, environmental pollution, and the emergence of secondary pests. Therefore, research is necessary today to replace other compounds, such as botanical pesticides. In this research, the effects of Neemarin extracted from the neem plant (Azadirachta indica</em> A. Juss) and Matrine extracted from Sophora flavescens</em> (Ait.) on second instar larvae and adult insects of alfalfa weevils were investigated in laboratory and field conditions.

Laboratory studies were conducted in a completely randomized design, and field evaluation was conducted in the form of completely randomized blocks in the spring of 2023 in Naghadeh City. The botanical insecticide Matrine, with its commercial form on Rui Agro and Neemarin extracted from the neem plant, was used in the experiments. Bioassays were performed on the second instar larvae and adults by immersing the host leaf in the concentrations of both compounds, and the mortality was recorded 24 and 48 hours after the treatment. After determining the LC50 and LC25 of Matrine and Neemarin, their mixed effects on second-instar larvae and adult insects were evaluated. This study used treatments including LC50 Matrine, LC50Neemarin, LC25 Neemarin + LC25 Matrine, and the control treatment on second instar larvae and adults. Also, the effect of sublethal concentration (LC25) on metamorphosis (transformation of the larval stage to pupa and transformation of the pupal stage to the adult insect) was studied. The field experiments were analyzed in three alfalfa fields treated with Neemarin (2000, 3000, and 4000 ppm), Matrine (200, 400, and 600 ppm), and control (water). Each treatment was evaluated in three repetitions using the Henderson-Tilton method.

The results of probit analysis showed that calculated LC50</sub> of the two botanical insecticides, Neemarin and Matrine on adult insects and second instar larvae of alfalfa after 48 hours were 544.65, 50.23, 45.86 and 3.76 ppm, respectively. Also, the effect of LC25</sub> of both biopesticides showed that the greatest inhibition in the transformation of larva to pupa is related to Neemarin (30%) and in the transformation of pupa to adult is related to Matrine (51.50%). In the field experiments, the highest mortality in adults was observed in the concentration of 600 ppm Matrine with 53.33% and in the second instar larvae related Neemarin (2000 ppm) with 27.33% mortality.

These investigations showed that Matrine pesticide has a higher lethality effect than Neemarin in laboratory and field conditions on adults and second-instar larvae of alfalfa leaf weevil. The effect of a sublethal dose of Neemarin on pest metamorphosis was more effective. Therefore, both pesticides can be used to manage this important pest.

Potato tuber moth (PTM), Phthorimaea operculella Zeller (Lep.: Gelechiidae), is one of the key pests of potato in the fields and warehouses of this product. Considering that potato is one of the important sources of human food, the control of this pest by different and especially non-chemical methods is of interest to researchers. Therefore, in this research, the effect of UV-C radiation on the population parameters of PTM was examined in laboratory conditions at 0, 4, 6 and 8 minutes on one- and three- day- old eggs. Based on the results, the intrinsic rate of population increase (r) and the finite rate of population increase (λ) under the influence of different times of UV-C radiation in one and three-day-old eggs with an increase in the duration of radiation yield decreased, and this decrease was more in three-day-old eggs than one-day-old eggs. The longest length of immature period was obtained in three-day-old eggs irradiated with UV-C radiation (37.67 days) in 8 minutes treatment. The shortest lifespan of adult female in one-day-old and three-day-old eggs was estimated 8.58 and 8.38 days at the time of 8 minutes of irradiation, respectively. The lowest net reproductive rate (R0) in three-day-old eggs at 0, 4, 6, and 8 minutes of irradiation was obtained 4.54, 3.28, 0.98, and 0.28 (female offspring), respectively. The maximum mean generation time (T) in three-day-old eggs was recorded as 42.86 days in the treatment of 8 minutes of irradiation. The obtained results show the negative effects of ultraviolet radiation on biological parameters and population growth of PTM. Therefore, UV-C irradiation may be considered in the integrated management of this pest in the storage stage.

The Mediterranean flour moth, Ephestia kuehniella is widely used in rearing parasitoids and predators. Therefore, it’s nutritional and immunity indicators and its defense potential against pathogenes are important. Therefore, in this research, the effect of a standard diet including a mixture of wheat flour (68%), wheat bran (29%) and yeast (2%) as well as the combination with four types of vitamins A, C, E and D3 (1%) on the nutritional and safety index for pathogenes were evaluated. In this research, by measuring the blood cells of second, third and fourth instar larvae fed with different diet, the sensitivity of third instar larvae to different concentrations of Bacillus thuringiensis, Beauveria bassiana and Nucleopolyhedrovirus (NPV) was obtained by LC50 and LT50 values. In the evaluation of nutritional index on third instar larvae of Mediterranean flour moth, the highest relative growth rate, relative consumption rate, efficiency of conversion of eaten food and efficiency of conversion of digested food were observed in larvae fed in standard diet with vitamin C. Also, the LC50 and LT50 values resulting from the effect of different concentrations of B. bassiana, B. thuringiensis and NPV virus on the third instar larvae of the Mediterranean flour moth showed that the least effect was on the larvae fed on the standard food dietincluding vitamin C followed by vitamin D3. Therefore, in the reproduction and rearing of this host in the production of biological agents, it is recommended to use food supplements containing vitamin C and D3.

Background &

One of the most important factors of pathogenicity and multidrug resistance of bacteria is the formation of biofilm. Bacterial biofilm includes communities of microorganisms, extracellular products, and materials in the space between them that are attached to a surface. The thickness of the biofilm can be significant from a single cell layer to a community depending on the adhesive polymeric environment in which it is located. In the 21st century, resistance to antibiotics was considered one of the biggest threats in the world, which is known to be a great danger to the health of humans and animals, and it has been proven to be an effective disaster. Finally, in the last few years, scientists have thought of replacing some organic and natural substances with antibiotics in order to minimize the harm caused by them, until the phenomenon of antibiotic resistance is raised as an important problem in health care This feature spreads antibiotic-resistant microbial pathogens. Bacteria such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Coagulase-negative staphylococcus, Salmonella, Shigella, Enterococcus, and Escherichia coli, which are receiving a lot of attention now and can be said to be the most resistant bacteria. It is compared to antibiotics and leads to the most dangerous infections in humans and animals. Staphylococcus aureus can produce multi-layered biofilm in one layer of glycocalyx. Due to its special structure and the presence of extracellular polymeric substances, biofilm reduces the penetration of antimicrobial agents. It is difficult to treat infections caused by biofilm-forming bacteria, and due to the distinctive properties of biofilms and their role in reducing the penetration of drugs into bacterial cells, biofilm-forming bacteria have high drug resistance and need to be used There are different treatment methods to treat this type of infection. Pseudomonas-aeruginosa is also one of the most important hospital pathogens. One of the treatment problems of this bacterium is its antibiotic resistance to common antibiotic treatments, which is related to biofilm production. One of the most important effects of antibiotics is drug resistance. Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria change in a way that reduces or completely eliminates the effect of the drug. This modified bacterium survives and causes new damage to body systems. In the last few years, scientists have been thinking of replacing some organic and natural substances instead of antibiotics in order to minimize the harm caused by them, until the phenomenon of antibiotic resistance has been raised as an important problem in health care. This feature spreads antibiotic-resistant microbial pathogens. Plant secondary metabolites such as essential oils and plant extracts have been investigated for their antimicrobial effect and it has been found that most of the plant essential oils extracted from plants have insecticidal, antifungal, antiparasitic, antibacterial, antiviral, antioxidant and cell killing properties. The active compounds of plant extracts and essential oils are volatile and some of them are hardly soluble in water and are easily oxidized. One of the problems of essential oils is their effectiveness. The method that can be suggested to increase the effectiveness and consumption of essential oils is to convert the essential oil into a nano form or use nanocomposite, nanoparticle, nanocapsule and liposome for further penetration into cells. Some studies show that encapsulated essential oils increase the antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of the compounds and also cause their properties to be preserved for a longer period of time. Due to their antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties, essential oils can be suitable substitutes in food and medicine fields and to deal with bacterial infections and pathogenic bacteria. They can also be an alternative to antibiotics. One of the latest methods to improve the transmission and effect of plant essential oils is the use of nanotechnology and the production of nanoparticle, nanocomposite, nanocapsule and liposome. Europe, Africa and Asia grow. This plant has received much attention in this family due to its aromatic compounds, antioxidant compounds and special biological characteristics. In recent studies, the antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects and activities of rosemary have been investigated. The essential oils obtained from rosemary and peppermint plants were analyzed by GC and GC-MS using the distillation method. Methyl cyclohexanol (35.90%) and menthone (23.01%) were the main components of the peppermint plant, camphor (23.22%), and alpha-pinene (17.99%) of the rosemary plant, respectively. The particle size of nano-emulsion, nano-composite, nano-capsule, and nano-liposome of both essential oils (rosemary and peppermint) was determined below 100 nm, which was confirmed by scanning electron microscope (FESEM) analysis. The antibacterial activity of Mentha piperita L and Rosmarinus officinalis L against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria was determined using the MIC method.

The samples of rosemary and peppermint plants tested in this research were collected from the growth center of agricultural technology units of Urmia University and were approved by botanical specialists of Urmia University. The collected plants were completely dried in the dark and then the dried plants were powdered by a blender. To prepare essential oil, essential oil was extracted from the Cloninger machine available in the laboratory of Urmia University.

Nanocapsules containing rosemary and peppermint essential oils were obtained with particle sizes of 19.25 and 35.2, respectively. Nanocomposite containing rosemary and peppermint essential oil was obtained with particle sizes of 27.14 and 71.7, respectively. Nanoliposomes containing rosemary and peppermint essential oils were obtained with particle sizes of 19.1 and 25.38, respectively.

The particle size of all formulations showed a significant difference over time, the particle size of nano emulsions was slightly different compared to nano-capsules, nano-composites, and nanoliposomes, but in general, all samples were stable. If the change in particle size was acceptable after one month. In the test of antimicrobial effects, the effect of essential oil in both free and encapsulated states in lipid carriers against Gram-positive bacteria was higher than Gram-negative bacteria, and the inhibition rate of nanoemulsion and nanoliposome compared to free essential oil in all bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus), Escherichia coli, Moraxella catarrhalis) and Candida albicans fungus was higher. nanoemulsion also had more antimicrobial effects compared to nanoliposomes.

This study was carried out to determine the effects of the entomopathogenic fungus, Beauveria bassiana (Bals. Criv.) Vuill, on survival and population growth parameters of the Myzocallis coryli Goetze one of important pest of hazelnut. Effect of LC30 on development, reproduction and life table parameters of the Filbert aphid were studied under laboratory conditions. The LC50 values of IRAN429 and Z-1 isolates were 9.86×104 and 1.03×106 conidia ml-1. The fungal treatment significantly (P<0.005) reduced nymphal period, life span and fecundity of the aphid in comparison with control. The rm values of IRAN429 and Z-1 in LC30 were 0.15 and 0.16 female/female/day respectively which was significantly reduced in comparison with control aphid (0.18 female/female/day). The lifelong of IRAN429 (31.75 day) and Z-1 (39.45 day) treatments were had significant difference with control (43.50 day). The fecundity value of IRAN429, Z-1 and control were 31.75, 39.45 and 78.41 (nymph/ female) that have significant difference with each other. Finite rate of increase (λ) was significantly reduced in treated aphids (IRAN429= 1.17 and Z-1=1.17 female/female/day) compared to control (1.19 female/female/day) treatment. The results of the present study showed that due to the significant effect of pathogenic fungi in sub-lethal concentration on the survival and reproduction indicators of aphids, it can be used in the integrated and biological management program of target pests.

Myzocallis coryli (Goetze) (Hemiptera: Aphididae) is a major hazelnut pest in Iran. This aphid attacks the stems and leaves of Corylus avellana L. hazelnut trees, and as the population grows, it causes the leaves of hazelnut trees to dry and fall, reducing the quality of the nuts. The use of entomopathogenic fungi in the management of hazelnut aphid has been prioritized in order to reduce negative environmental consequences. The isolates IRAN 715C, DEMI001, M14, and V245 from the fungus Metarhizium anisopliae were employed in this work to assess on the adults of M. coryli. To assess the toxicity of four isolates, the Probit tool in SPSS 21 software was employed with a fatal dose of 50% of the LC50. The LC50 values for DEMI001, IRAN715C, M14, and V245 isolates on adults of M. coryli in laboratory and field settings were 1.9×106, 2.34×106, 0.469×106, 1.79×106 and 7150×106, 101000×106, 4860×106, 14700×106 con/ml, respectively. According to the findings of this investigation, isolated M14 is particularly efficient on adult filbert aphids. In addition, a larger concentration of fungal suspensions is required in the field to suppress adult aphids than in the laboratory. The additive or synergistic effects were not seen when assessing the interaction between two effective isolates. As a result, the use of isolate M14 in the hazelnut aphid integrated management program (IPM) is suggested.

Greenhouse whitefly, Trialeurodes vaporariorum Westwood is one of the most important pests of vegetables, crops, and ornamental plants. In order to control this pest, it is necessary to find alternative solutions in order to reduce the adverse effects caused by the excessive use of chemical pesticides. Therefore, this research investigated the sub-lethal effect (LC20) of three formulations of Azadirachtin, including Nimbecidine®, NeemAzal T/S®and Kofa® investigated on the greenhouse condition. Experiments were carried out in the greenhouse with light conditions of 16:8 hours (light: dark), temperature 27±2 °C, and 65±5% RH. The results showed that Nimbecidine®formulation with LC50 was equal to 0.261a.i. mg/L was the most toxic formulation on the third instar nymph of this pest. In investigating the sub-lethal effects of all three formulations, they affected the duration of immature stages, survival, longevity, and fecundity of the whitefly. The lowest net rate of reproduction (R0) (3.68 offspring), the intrinsic rate of population increase (r) (0.06 1/day), and the finite rate of population increase (λ) (1.06 1/day) were related to the Nimbecidine® formula. However, the average duration of one generation (T) was not affected by the sublethal concentration of the three formulations. The findings of the present research indicated the adverse effects of the sub-lethal concentration (LC20) of all three neem formulations on the biological parameters and population growth of this pest. Accordingly, it is possible to use the sublethal concentration of the Nimbecidine® formula in the integrated management of this pest

Phthorimaea operculella Zeller (Lep.: Gelechiidae), is one of the key pests of potato plants in fields and warehouses. This research was designed to determine interaction and the priority and delay of using two control factors including the parasitoid wasp, Trichogramma brassicae (Hym.: Trichogrammatidae) and UV-C radiation in controlling the egg stage of potato tuber moth (PTM), which has the least adverse effect on T. brassicae. The rate of oviposition and emergence of parasitoid on irradiated and control eggs was investigated. Also, ultraviolet rays were applied for 0, 8, 10, and 12 minutes on 1, 2, and 3-day-old eggs of PTM in two pre-parasitized conditions, and the second mode of irradiation was performed after parasitization, and the rate of parasitoid emergence was evaluated. The results showed that there was no significant difference between the two groups of eggs irradiated by UV-C rays and the control treatment. In UV-C irradiation on the parasitized PTM eggs, the percentage of parasitoid emergence decreased with the increase in the duration of irradiation, and in the case of irradiated-parasitized eggs, the rate of parasitoid emergence increased compared to the parasitized-irradiated eggs. The results of this study showed that 3-day-old eggs were more sensitive to ultraviolet rays than 1 and 2-day-old eggs. Also, the rate of emergence of parasitoid from irradiated-then-parasitized eggs increased compared to the parasitized-irradiated eggs. Therefore, in the simultaneous use of T. brassicae and UV-C radiation in controlling the egg stage of this pest and other target pests, first UV-C radiation and then release of T. brassicae is recommended.

In the present study, the status of management and hygienic of honey bee colonies in the north of West Azerbaijan province and their impact on pests and diseases were studied in 2020. The apiaries of 8 cities of this province were selected and subjected to field studies. We selected 12 apiaries from each city and grouped them into four groups of three colonies, including groups 0 to 100, 100 to 200, 200 to 300, and 300 to 400 colonies. From apiaries up to 100 colonies, 10 colonies, 100 to 200 colonies, 15 colonies, 200 to 300 colonies, 20 colonies, and 300 to 400 colonies, 25 colonies were randomly selected as a sample, numbered, and subjected to field studies. Selected samples were studied in terms of eggs, larvae, pupae, population, pests and diseases, and if pests and diseases were observed, their contamination was visually determined and recorded. Also, the selected colonies were examined in terms of the amount of produced honey, the presence of Varroa mites and yellow bees and their relationship with the number of colonies, their location in different places, the use of drugs and chemical pesticides used to control Varroa mites, Nosema and American foulbrood, the impact of migration to the tropics and the attempt to replace the queen. Statistical analysis of data was performed using the GLM method in SAS software. According to the results, the majority of beekeepers in this province were in the age range of 30 to 40 years, and only 21.9% of the youth of this province were engaged in this beekeeping profession. The results showed that the mean of produced honey has a significant relationship to the variables of location and number of hives. The average production of honey in Poldasht and chaypareh cities was higher than in other counties studied. Varroa mite had a significant relationship with the variable of place and drug of the control Varroa mite so that Varroa mite infection was more in Chaldoran city than other cities. The results of the present study showed that the Apistan drug had the greatest effect on the control of Varroa mites. The results of this study showed that increasing the management and health efficiency of bee colonies can have a significant effect on controlling pests and diseases and increasing the performance of bee colonies.

Cotton bollworm, Helicoverpa armigera Hübner (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), is a cosmopolitan polyphagous pest. Researchers need a simple mass rearing procedure to study the life history, behavior, and feeding habits of insects. In the present study, effects of container type (Petri dishes or transparent cubic-containers), the form of positioning the containers (overturned or upright), and diet type (artificial diet or natural diet, i.e., chickpea plants) on the development and survival of neonate of H. armigera were assessed. Additionally, effects of container type and ventilation (air circulation in rearing containers) on development and survival of second to sixth instars, percentage of pupation, and adult emergence were assessed. Container type had no significant effect on the development and survival of the neonates and subsequent instars. More neonates survived to the second instar when reared in the containers held overturned, compared to those held upright. The neonates reared on chickpea plants had a shorter larval development and a higher survival rate than those reared on an artificial diet. The percentage of pupation and adult emergence of second instars reared individually in ventilated containers was higher than that of those reared in unventilated containers. As a food source for neonates, chickpea plants could improve the mass rearing of H. armigera.

Patulin a major human health problem, especially in the juice. The global standard of patulin in fruit juices is about 50 ppb. Studies show that using different physical, chemical and biological methods can reduce the amount of patulin. Therefore, the amount of mycotoxin patulin in apple concentrate samples and their reduction by ozone, activated charcoal and their combined effects were evaluated. One-way ANOVA and two-way ANOVA were used to analyses effects of the two factors separately and combination form and for compration of means Tukey test at the 5% level of significance were used too. According to the results of this study on the reduction of patulin concentration by two variables of activated charcoal concentration and ozonation time showed that there is a direct relationship between increase the activated charcoal concentration and also ozonation time. The highest decrease in patulin concentration was obtained in 0.2 g of activated charcoal and 9 minutes ozonation. The results also showed that there was an interaction between the two variables (P = 0.006 and the highest decrease in patulin was observed at 8 minutes of ozonation and 1.5 g of activated charcoal. patulin in the juice and concentrate factories and can be an effective step in health by GAP (Green Agricultural Practice) and exports of fruit juice and concentrates.Keywords: Mycotoxin, Patulin, Ozone, Activated charcoal, Apple concentrate

The parasitoid wasp Trichogramma brassicae is one of the most important natural enemies used to biologically inhibit the egg stage of pests. Rearing of this parasitoid on different hosts and its interaction with entomopathogenic fungi Metarhizium anisopliae is very important in pest control. Therefore, this entomopathogenic fungus along with trichogramma parasitoid can be used in integrated pest management. In this study, effect of M. anisopliae (isolate M14) concentrations on parasitized eggs of Ephestia kuehniella and Sitotroga cerealella, oviposition preference and hatching percentage on the hosts, also, oviposition preference by parasitoid on E. kuehniella and S. cerealella eggs impregnated with different concentrations of M. anisopliae (isolate M14) and control treatment were studied. Probit analysis obtained from the effect of M. anisopliae (isolate M14) concentrations on E. kuehniella and S. cerealella eggs containing parasitoid showed the highest mortality of parasitoid on E. kuehniella. In the host preference test by choice and non-choice methods, the highest number of parasitic eggs and parasitoid hatching were recorded in E. kuehniella. In the study of the effect of different concentrations of M. anisopliae on the parasitized rate of hosts eggs showed that at low concentrations there is no significant difference between treatments and control, but in higher concentrations, a significant difference was observed, and mean of parasitized eggs was higher in the control. The results of present study confirm that in the simultaneous use of two biological agents, more attention should be paid to the interaction between them to control of target pest.

Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki (Btk)is used for control of sugar beet army worm larvae, Spodoptera exigua Hb. in large-scale. Using high doses for more effective control increases the likelihood of developing resistance. The use of plant and physical compounds with this bacterium as an effective method to reduce the dose of Btk and increase its effect is of great importance and place in integrated pest management programs. Therefore, in order to reduce the use of Btk and increase its efficiency in mixing with silica nanoparticles and Neemarin to control the larvae of the second larval of sugar beet in labratory condition were evaluated. The LC50 value by probit analysis of different concentrations of Btk, silica nanoparticles and neemarin after 24, 48 and 72 hours (2252.39, 3219.22, 1608.15), (1483.31, 1852.49, 793.35) and (724.78, 982.28, 393.71) mg. L.-1 were obtained, respectively. The highest and lowest mortality in the treatment of Btk combination with neemarin (LC25, NE+LC25, Bt) (%66) and the control treatment (distilled water) (%2) after 75 h were observed. Also in the assessment of damage according to the mean of treatments, the most damage in the control treatment (%55.3) and the least damage in the treatment of Btk combination with neemarin (LC25, NE+LC25, Bt) (%15) after 5 day were obtained. In this study, due to the increase in Btk efficiency in combination with neemarin, the combination of these two factors in order to manage resistance and sustainable control of sugar beet army worm larvae and susceptible pests is recommended.

In the present study, the pathogenicity of spores/crystals produced byBacillus thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki (HD-1) in different culture media within fermented and non fermented conditions were determined against the second larval instar of Ephestia kuehniella L. The colony forming unit (CFU), spore count, optical density (OD) and cell mass indices in enriched and non-enriched liquid media of fermented condition after 96 h cultivation were (28.2×‌1014 CFU.mL-1, 11.8×‌1010 spore.mL-1, 28.0×‌108 mg.mL-1 and 11.0 g.L-1) and (26.6×‌1014 CFU.mL-1, 10.0×‌1010 spore.mL-1, 24.4×‌108 mg.mL-1 and 9.9 g.L-1), respectively while those were found to be (18.1×‌1014 CFU.mL-1, 8.1×‌1010 spore.mL-1, 16.4×‌108 mg.mL-1 and 8.9 g.L-1) and (16.8×‌1014 CFU.mL-1, 7.4 ×‌1010 spore.mL -1, 15.6×‌108 mg.mL-1 and 7.9 g.L-1) in non-fermented condition, respectively. The LC50 value of Btk spore/crystal cultured on enriched and non-enriched liquid media for 96h cultivation in fermented condition after 2 days treatment against larval instar were obtained (0.9 and 3.0) and in non-fermented condition (1.5 and 4.2) µg.mL-1, respectively.The LT50 value in fermented condition (6.2 and 10.7) and in non-fermented condition (7.2 and 12.6) h were, respectively. Bioassay studies indicated that the Btk spore/crystal suspention cultured on enriched and non-enriched media in fermented condition for 96h cultivation after 2 days treatment had (61.0 and 46.6-%) and in non-fermented condition (53.3 and 38.6%) mortality, respectively. The results confirm that enriched culture medium in fermented conditions produced the highest amount of spores and crystals and thus increased bacterial toxicity on the second larval instar of E. kuehniella after treatment.

 Callosobruchus maculatus and Sitophilus granarius are two of the most important pests of stored products and cause heavy damage. Due to economic importance of stored product pests and resistance potential of them to conventional fumigants, it is necessary to replace these insect control agents with novel and safe compounds. Modified atmosphere is a valuable method to control some stored product pests. In this research effect of this method based on the use of carbon dioxide and ammonia was evaluated against adult stages of C. maculatus and S. granarius alone and in combination with each other in glass anaerobic jars. Mortality was recorded after 24 h. The LC50 values of carbon dioxide for C. maculatus and S. granarius were estimated 1322.53 and 1283.96 ppm, respectively. The LC50 values of ammonia for these pests were estimated 250.24 and 366.79 ppm, respectively.The mixture of carbon dioxide and ammonia (in LC25 values) caused a mortality rate of 86.67 and 93.33 % on the adults of C. maculatus and S. granarius respectively. The effects of carbon dioxide and ammonia were also evaluated against germination rate of cowpea and wheat seeds at 2238.72, 3630.78 and 426.58, 549.55 ppm, respectively. Germination rate was up to 98 percent.

The cabbage aphid(CA), Brevicoryne brassicae L. (Hem.: Aphididae) is an important pest of brassicaceae family plants. In recent decades, biological control and use of entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) have been developed as an alternative or supplement of chemical pesticides to control aphids. Evaluation of the sublethal effects of pathogenic agents, such as EPF, is as important as mortality itself. Therefore, in this study, sublethal (LC25) effects of EPFs, Acremonium sclerotigenum, Lecanicillium muscarium, Beauveria bassiana, Paecilomyces variotii and Simplicillium sp., were studied on development, reproduction and life table parameters of the cabbage aphid under laboratory conditions. Among the tested isolates, the highest LC50 value was 2.57×103 conidia ml-1 in L. muscarium. The fungal treatment significantly (P<0. 05) reduced developmental rate, life span and fecundity of CA in comparison with control. The rm values in treatments of A. sclerotigenum, L. muscarium, B. bassiana, P. variotii  and Simplicillium sp., were 0.225±0.009, 0.219±0.011, 0.246±0.008, 0.254±0.004 and 0.215±0.008 day-1, respectively, which were significantly reduced in comparison with control (0.332±0.008 day-1). Results of peresent study showed that, A. sclerotigenum, L. muscarium and B. bassiana had greats effect on fertility, longevity, and life table parameters od CA and can be used as an effective microbial agent in integrated pest management of this pest if the results can be repeated in the field condition.

The cotton whitefly, Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) is an important pest of cotton which by transmitting plant pathogenic viruses cause damage and reduce lint quality. To reduce the use of chemical insecticides, effects of ZnO nanoparticles, Kaolin alone or in pairwise combination with NeemAzal-T/S against egg and second instar nymph of B. tabaci and pupae of its parasitoid Eretmocerus mundus Mercet were evaluated. The LC50 values of ZnO NPs, Kaolin and NeemAzal-T/S against eggs and nymphs of B. tabaci were 7.49 mg L-1, 24.89 g L-1, 6.83 mg L-1 AZA and 6.93 mg L-1, 18.36 g L-1 and 6.00 mg L-1 AZA 3 days after treatment, respectively. The LC50 values of ZnO NPs, Kaolin and NeemAzal-T/S against E. mundus were 11.30 mg L-1, 41.59 g L-1, 36.90 mg L-1 AZA, respectively 3 days after treatment. In the laboratory conditions, ZnO + NeemAzal and Kaolin + NeemAzal exerted a higher level of control on eggs and nymphs of the pest than either alone, while they had a lower level of negative effects on the parasitoid pupae, too. In the field conditions and at 7 DAT, Kaolin + NeemAzal was the most effective treatment on eggs of the pest, causing a 67.43% reduction, while NeemAzal-T/S was the most effective treatment on nymph (86.52% reduction), which was not different with ZnO + NeemAzal and Kaolin + NeemAzal. NeemAzal and ZnO exerted the highest and lowest mortality on pupae of the parasitoid, respectively. Based on the field studies, ZnO NPs at 20 mg L-1, Kaolin at 30 g L-1, NeemAzal-T/S at 15 mg L-1 AZA and mixing equal volumes of NeemAzal-T/S (7.5 mg L-1 AZA)+ZnO NPs (10 mg L-1) and NeemAzal-T/S (7.5 mg L-1 AZA)+ Kaolin (15 g L-1) can be suitable candidates in IPM programs of B. tabaci field condition.

Staphylococcus aureus infection needs long-term treatment with antibiotics which may cause adverse effects on many body organs and antibiotics resistance. Therefore, the use of natural and herbal compounds has been under consideration.

In the present study, the effects of sunflower (Helianthus annuus) and sesame (Sesamum indicum) oils were assessed on S. aureus growth regarding zone of inhibited growth (Antibiogram test), Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC).

considering antibiogram test, there was a statistically significant difference between sesame and sunflower oil (72 hours ozonate) and pure sesame and sunflower oils and ciprofloxacin antibiotic, as well as negative control distilled water after 24 and 48 hours (P≤0.05). The results showed that antibiotic, ozonated water, ozonated sesame and sunflower oils had 12, 8, 4, and 3 mm inhibition zones after 24 hours on S. aureus bacteria, respectively. The MBC and MIC values of ozonated sunflower and sesame oil on S. aureus were 0.064, 0.022, 0.032 and 0.028 mg/mL, respectively.
Sesame and sunflower oils can be used as inhibitors of the growth of S. aureus in pharmaceutical formulations such as wound and burn healing ointments.

Grape erineum mite (GEM) Colomerus vitis (Pagenstecher), is one of the major pests of grapevine which directly and indirectly influences the quality and quantity of grape annually. Hence to reduce and control the leaf infestation, a research was conducted in a completely randomized block design in an experimental vineyard in Urmia city, West-Azerbaijan province, Iran during 2016 to 2017 with 10 treatments including abamectin, volk oil, detergent, abamectin+ volk oil+ detergent, abamectin+ volk oil, abamectin+ detergent, volk oil+ detergent, sulfur 3.5 and 4.5% wp., water (testifier) with 70 replicates. Abamectin (0/5 l/1000 l of water, 1.8% EC), volk oil (2.5 l/100 l of water, 80% L), detergent (0.5 l/1000 l of water) and sulfur (3.5 and 4.5%) applied with the mentioned concentrations. Spraying operation organized in three and sampling in seven times with biweekly intervals. Percentage of efficiency, calculated with Henderson-Tilton formula then corrected with GLM. According to results, all treatments including abamectin in first spraying stage (late winter) showed ≥ 90% efficacy whereas; other treatments without abamectin like volk oil and detergent in first spraying stage showed 57-91 and 55-88% mortality, respectively. Sulfur 3.5 and 4.5% wp. in both second and third spraying stages by 48-69 and 51-65%, respectively controlled the GEM less than abamectin. To control this pest around economic threshold and also less adverse impacts to the nature, applying volk oil (2.5 l/100 l of water) with detergent (0.5 l/1000 l of water) in late winter is advisable.