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Volume 0, Issue 0 (12-2024)
Abstract
Aim and Introduction
Many theories and models of economic growth have identified capital as one of the most important drivers and determinants of economic growth and development. For years, it was believed that abundant natural resources, as part of a country’s capital, constituted a divine blessing, as they could be converted into other forms of capital and contribute to overall economic development. Consequently, countries rich in natural resources were expected to perform better economically than those without such resources. However, over time, particularly after World War II, empirical evidence revealed that most resource-rich countries performed poorly compared to resource-poor countries.
some empirical studies have highlighted a positive relationship between natural resource abundance and economic growth. Stijns (2001), using an alternative variable from Sachs and Warner (1995) to measure resource abundance, found no evidence of the detrimental effect of natural resources on economic growth. Lederman and Maloney (2003) also reported a positive relationship between resource abundance (measured by net resource exports per worker) and economic growth.
Sala-i-Martin and Subramanian (2003) contended that the relationship between natural resource abundance and economic growth loses statistical significance once institutional quality is accounted for. They suggested that the effect of natural resources depends on the type of resource, indicating that fuel and mineral resources negatively affect institutions (and thus economic growth), whereas the relationship between economic growth and other types of resources is not statistically significant. Similarly, Papyrakis and Gerlagh (2004) demonstrated that when variables such as corruption, investment, degree of freedom, terms of trade, and education are controlled and managed, the abundance of natural resources would have a positive effect on economic growth.
Thus, it can be concluded that not all resource-rich countries have experienced poor economic performance or economic decline. In certain cases, the optimal utilization of abundant resources has led to significant economic growth and increased per capita income.
Economic growth remains the primary goal of all economies, as it is directly linked to maximizing societal welfare. Economic growth encompasses increased utilization of inputs, improved productivity of production factors, and enhanced employment opportunities. Natural resources are among the most crucial sources of production in any country. According to growth and development theories, as well as international trade theories, these resources can provide a comparative advantage for an economy. Income generated from natural resource abundance can create national wealth, spur economic progress, increase societal welfare, and reduce poverty. In this regard, mineral resources are considered a key factor in accelerating investment and economic growth.
Methodology
This study examines the economic growth patterns of Iran and a group of mineral-rich countries from 2000 to 2020. A panel data method was employed to estimate and evaluate the results, considering the similarities between the selected countries and Iran in terms of mineral resource abundance.
In the research process, the final variables and the functional form of the model were identified, and data processing, analysis, and model estimation were conducted using Stata software. The data used in the study were collected from official sources, including the Central Bank, the Statistical Center of Iran, and the Ministry of Industry, Mine, and Trade. Additionally, for data on other countries, international sources such as the World Trade Organization (WTO), the World Bank, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), and the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) STAN database were utilized.
Findings
The study investigated the direct and indirect effects of natural resource abundance on economic growth through channels such as physical capital accumulation, research and development (R&D) investment in technology, labor, financial development, and economic freedom across three groups of countries. The first group includes countries with both mineral resources and oil, the second group consists of countries with only minerals, and the third group comprises countries with only oil resources. The generalized fixed effects model was selected as the final model for all three groups. According to the results:
The results suggest that the hypothesis of natural resource abundance positively influencing economic growth is supported for the first and second groups of countries. However, this hypothesis is not confirmed for the third group, which includes Iran.
The findings underscore that the impact of natural resources on economic growth is contingent upon various factors, including the type of resource, the quality of institutions, and the effectiveness of economic and governance policies. While some resource-rich countries have successfully translated their natural wealth into economic prosperity, others, including Iran, have faced challenges in maximizing the economic benefits of their natural resources.
Many theories and models of economic growth have identified capital as one of the most important drivers and determinants of economic growth and development. For years, it was believed that abundant natural resources, as part of a country’s capital, constituted a divine blessing, as they could be converted into other forms of capital and contribute to overall economic development. Consequently, countries rich in natural resources were expected to perform better economically than those without such resources. However, over time, particularly after World War II, empirical evidence revealed that most resource-rich countries performed poorly compared to resource-poor countries.
some empirical studies have highlighted a positive relationship between natural resource abundance and economic growth. Stijns (2001), using an alternative variable from Sachs and Warner (1995) to measure resource abundance, found no evidence of the detrimental effect of natural resources on economic growth. Lederman and Maloney (2003) also reported a positive relationship between resource abundance (measured by net resource exports per worker) and economic growth.
Sala-i-Martin and Subramanian (2003) contended that the relationship between natural resource abundance and economic growth loses statistical significance once institutional quality is accounted for. They suggested that the effect of natural resources depends on the type of resource, indicating that fuel and mineral resources negatively affect institutions (and thus economic growth), whereas the relationship between economic growth and other types of resources is not statistically significant. Similarly, Papyrakis and Gerlagh (2004) demonstrated that when variables such as corruption, investment, degree of freedom, terms of trade, and education are controlled and managed, the abundance of natural resources would have a positive effect on economic growth.
Thus, it can be concluded that not all resource-rich countries have experienced poor economic performance or economic decline. In certain cases, the optimal utilization of abundant resources has led to significant economic growth and increased per capita income.
Economic growth remains the primary goal of all economies, as it is directly linked to maximizing societal welfare. Economic growth encompasses increased utilization of inputs, improved productivity of production factors, and enhanced employment opportunities. Natural resources are among the most crucial sources of production in any country. According to growth and development theories, as well as international trade theories, these resources can provide a comparative advantage for an economy. Income generated from natural resource abundance can create national wealth, spur economic progress, increase societal welfare, and reduce poverty. In this regard, mineral resources are considered a key factor in accelerating investment and economic growth.
Methodology
This study examines the economic growth patterns of Iran and a group of mineral-rich countries from 2000 to 2020. A panel data method was employed to estimate and evaluate the results, considering the similarities between the selected countries and Iran in terms of mineral resource abundance.
In the research process, the final variables and the functional form of the model were identified, and data processing, analysis, and model estimation were conducted using Stata software. The data used in the study were collected from official sources, including the Central Bank, the Statistical Center of Iran, and the Ministry of Industry, Mine, and Trade. Additionally, for data on other countries, international sources such as the World Trade Organization (WTO), the World Bank, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), and the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) STAN database were utilized.
Findings
The study investigated the direct and indirect effects of natural resource abundance on economic growth through channels such as physical capital accumulation, research and development (R&D) investment in technology, labor, financial development, and economic freedom across three groups of countries. The first group includes countries with both mineral resources and oil, the second group consists of countries with only minerals, and the third group comprises countries with only oil resources. The generalized fixed effects model was selected as the final model for all three groups. According to the results:
- The share of mineral resources in exports was significant and positive for the first and second groups of countries, whereas it was significant and negative for the third group, which includes Iran.
- The share of oil and gas resources in exports was significant and positive for the first group of countries, but it had a significant negative impact for the third group.
- The unemployment rate had a significant negative relationship with per capita income across all groups.
- The total factor productivity index was positive and significant for all groups, positively influencing per capita income.
- Research and development expenditures had a significant positive effect on per capita income across all groups.
- The economic openness index was significant for all groups, positively affecting per capita income.
- The institutional quality index was significant for all groups, positively influencing per capita income.
- The net foreign direct investment variable was significant for the second group but had a negative effect.
The results suggest that the hypothesis of natural resource abundance positively influencing economic growth is supported for the first and second groups of countries. However, this hypothesis is not confirmed for the third group, which includes Iran.
The findings underscore that the impact of natural resources on economic growth is contingent upon various factors, including the type of resource, the quality of institutions, and the effectiveness of economic and governance policies. While some resource-rich countries have successfully translated their natural wealth into economic prosperity, others, including Iran, have faced challenges in maximizing the economic benefits of their natural resources.
Volume 1, Issue 1 (2-2016)
Abstract
Background: we aimed to evaluate the effect of body weight and Body Mass Index (BMI) on Bone Mineral Density (BMD) in healthy postmenopausal Iranian women. Material and Methods: Two hundred postmenopausal women (age between 51 and 69 years) who had presented to the nuclear medicine center at Shariati Hospital in Tehran, Iran between April 2012 and August 2013 were included in this cross sectional study. Of these 46 healthy women who met the study criteria constituted for evaluation. After recording weight and height of individuals, Body Mass Index (BMI) (kg/m2) was calculated as weight (kg) divided by height square (m2). Bone Mineral Density (BMD) in Femoral Neck (FN) and lumbar spine sites (L1-L4) were measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). Results: We observed statistically significant negative correlation between BMD measurements at femoral neck and lumbar1-4 spine with age and significant positive correlation with weight and BMI. Stepwise multiple linear regression analysis showed that only weight and age, after adjustments to BMI determined lumbar1-4 spine BMD (R² = 23%) and femoral neck BMD (R² = 28.6%). Conclusions: These results suggest that the relationship between body weights and BMD is Stronger than the relationship between BMI and BMD. Therefore, in comparison with body mass index, body weight alone is a better predictor of bone mineral density.
Volume 3, Issue 9 (7-2006)
Abstract
Spinach is one of the most important leafy vegetables of chenopodiaceae family. This plant is native to Iran and has valuable nutrients. In this research mineral element content (like potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, iron, cupper, zinc), protein, total fiber, total fat, oxalic acid, phenolic compounds and fatty acids of seven Iranian spinach cultivars (Arak, Khorram Abad, Shirvan, Bojnourd, Karaj, Varamin and Lahijan) were analyzed and compared. Results showed that Arak cultivar had the highest amount of potassium, calcium and copper; Lahijan cultivar had the highest amount of magnesium and protein, Varamin cultivar had the highest amount of phosphorous, zinc, fiber and fat, Khorram Abad cultvar had the highest amount of iron. The lowest amount of oxalic acid was determined in Karaj and Lahijan cultivars (53.8 mg/ 100 g of fresh weight). Phenolic compounds had significant difference and cultivar Shirvan had the the highest amount of these compounds (110 mg Tanic Acid/gdw). The highest percentage of linolenic acid (ω3) and linoleic acid (ω6) were belonged to the Arak and Lahijan cultivars, respectively. Therefore Iranian spinach cultivars have considerable amount of minerals, fiber, protein, phenolic compounds, essential fatty acids (linolenic acid (ω3) and linoleic acid (ω6) and should be used in diet programs.
Volume 3, Issue 9 (7-2006)
Abstract
The seeds of ten pomegranate (punica granatum L.) cultivars were analyzed for their physicochemical and oil properties. Also mineral elements such as Zn, Cu, Fe, Mn, Mg, Na and K were determined by ICP atomic emmision spectroscopy. The highest quantities of mineral belonged to Mg, K and Na. Also, the quantities of ash and protein in pomegranate seeds were 1.81-2.35 % and 6.63- 12.95 %, respectively. The average contents of refractometer, unsaponifiable, saponification, iodine, peroxide, acidity, moisture and volatile matter were the ranges 1.50-1.51, 1.16-1.63, 181.3-187.9 mgKOH/g, 165-179.4, 0.3-0.7 meqO2/kg oil, 0.25-0.4 % and 0.10-0.19 %, respectively.
Volume 3, Issue 10 (10-2006)
Abstract
Purslane (Portulaca oleracea L.) is an annual, summer crop and belongs to Portulacaceae family. Although it is grow as a weed plant in field, but it is cultivated in wide range in south part of Iran. Pursalne is important in respect to unsaturated fatty acids and high nutritive value. For determining fatty acids, oxalic acid and mineral elements (K, Mg, Ca, Fe) of Iranian purslane cultivars, this research was carried out. Cultivars "Behbahan, Ahwaz, Borazjan and Tehran" were planted in greenhouse. Determination of fatty acids by gas chromatography showed that linolenic acid (omega-3) of leaf and seed were 19.69-30.15% and 19.42-29.81%, respectively. Oxalic acid content of leaf cultivars was over the range 40-80 g per 100 g fresh weight and the lowest amount was determined in cv."Borazjan". Dry matter content of leaf varied from 4.25 to 4.71%. Cultivar "Borazjan" had the highest potassium and calcium and iron content of cv. "Behbahan" was higher than other cultivars. Among mineral elements, magnesium content of cv. "Tehran" was 84.78 mg per 100 g fresh weight. Mean of potassium, magnesium, calcium and iron of Iranian purslane was 500, 66, 154 and 31 mg per 100 fresh weight, respectively. This research showed that Iranian purslane cultivars are rich sourse of omega-3 fatty acid, mineral elements and have lower oxalic acid content and recommended for human nutrition.
Volume 4, Issue 1 (10-2013)
Abstract
The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between the structure and function of an osteocalcin derived peptide on hydroxyapatite nanocrystal formation. For this purpose, , a natural motif sequence consisting of 13 amino acids present in the first helix of osteocalcin was selected based on its calcium binding ability and synthesized in both acidic and amidic forms using solid phase method. Circular dichroism (CD) and electron microscopy were performed to examine the structure and function of synthesized peptides. Moreover, the effect of these peptides on the viability of osteoblast cells was evaluated. Electron microscopy analysis showed the formation of plate-like HA nanocrystals in the presence of amidic peptide. In contrast, amorphous calcium phosphate was formed in the presence of acidic peptide. CD spectra analysis confirmed the random coil structure with lower molar elipticity for amidic peptide. In addition, the amidic peptide significantly increased the proliferation of osteoblast cells. It is concluded that increased bioactivity, which only occurred in amidic peptide is attributable to C-terminal amidation. It is also proposed that peptides with the ability to promote HA formation have the potential to be utilized in hard tissue regeneration high bioactivity and biocompatibility.
Volume 5, Issue 16 (4-2008)
Abstract
Shallot (Allium hirtifolium Boiss.) is a perennial plant from Alliaceae family. It is native to Iran and grows as a wild plant. This research was carried out to determine the fatty acid profiles and mineral elements (K, Na, Mg, Fe, Cu, Zn, Mn) of seventeen Iranian shallot landraces (Kangavar, Siakhdarengoon, Sahneh, Ashtian, Dashtearzhan, Koohrang, Sepidan, Divandareh, Boroujerd, Khomein, Yasuj, Nahavand, Khansar, Harsin, Arak, Doshmanziare and Koohmaresorkhi). Results showed that the highest and lowest dry matter (36.71 and 29.15%) were belonged to Harsin and Doshmanziare landraces, respectively. Kangavar landrace had the highest amount of Fe and Cu and Koohrang landrace had the highest amount of Mg. The highest amount of Na was determined in Harsin landrace. The highest amount of K and Mn were determined in Sahneh and Zn in Khomein landraces. Determination of fatty acids with gas chromatography showed that the highest lonolenic acid (ω3) and linoleic acid (ω6) were observed in Ashtian and Sepidan landraces, respectively. This research showed that Iranian shallot landraces are important in mineral elements and essential fatty acids content and are recommended for human nutrition.
Volume 7, Issue 1 (3-2018)
Abstract
Acute toxicity of the field recommended concentration of three conventional insecticides (Diazinon, Malathion and Chlorpyrifos) and mineral oil was evaluated on 3rd and 4th instar larvae and adults of Cryptolaemus montrouzieri Mulsant. The mortalities caused by the insecticides and mineral oil were significantly different. Diazinon and Malathion with 100% mortality showed the highest toxicity to the different stages of the ladybird. Chlorpyrifos and mineral oil caused less than 30% mortality, while mineral oil had the lowest harmful effect on this predator. Based on LC50 and LC90 values 24h after treatment, the male and female adults of C. montrouzieri were more susceptible to Diazinon (701 and 635; 1257 and 1194ppm) than to Chlorpyrifos (4238 and 4316, 5683 and 5480 ppm). Based on International Organization of Biological Control (IOBC) classification, Chlorpyrifos and mineral oil were classified as category 1 (harmless) and Diazinon and Malathion were placed in category 4 (harmful).
Volume 7, Issue 1 (1-2019)
Abstract
Aims: Todays, the change of range land to agricultural uses by unplanned and improper locations of water supply wells would be led to sever reduction of ground water level and subsequently fully land degradation. However, the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of land use change on soil physical, chemical, and mineralogical properties.
Materials & Methods: In this study, 9 soil profiles in Kangavar plain with range and different arable land uses were dug and described. Some properties of soil samples were determined, then, pedons classified to Inceptisols, Entisols, and Mollisols orders.
Findings: The result showed that with land use change from range land to agriculture, content of soil clay reduces (from average 47.6% to 41.4%). With land use change of range to cropland properties including pH, organic matter and calcium carbonate equivalents contents decreased. The amount of soluble potassium in the surface horizons in range lands was more than arable land. In the cropland pedons, the amount of soluble sodium reduced compared to rangeland pedons. The results showed that land use change had no effect on clay minerals type, but changed those value. According to the results, in range land, illite and vermiculite percentage were greater than crop land soil pedons. The smectite content in arable land use more frequency than range land (data have significant difference at p< 0.05 level).
Conclusion: It was concluded that long-term agriculture in study area induced to sever reduction of nutrient and consequently caused to soil degradation in whole plain.
Materials & Methods: In this study, 9 soil profiles in Kangavar plain with range and different arable land uses were dug and described. Some properties of soil samples were determined, then, pedons classified to Inceptisols, Entisols, and Mollisols orders.
Findings: The result showed that with land use change from range land to agriculture, content of soil clay reduces (from average 47.6% to 41.4%). With land use change of range to cropland properties including pH, organic matter and calcium carbonate equivalents contents decreased. The amount of soluble potassium in the surface horizons in range lands was more than arable land. In the cropland pedons, the amount of soluble sodium reduced compared to rangeland pedons. The results showed that land use change had no effect on clay minerals type, but changed those value. According to the results, in range land, illite and vermiculite percentage were greater than crop land soil pedons. The smectite content in arable land use more frequency than range land (data have significant difference at p< 0.05 level).
Conclusion: It was concluded that long-term agriculture in study area induced to sever reduction of nutrient and consequently caused to soil degradation in whole plain.
Volume 7, Issue 2 (7-2018)
Abstract
In this study, the roles of proximate composition, mineral profile and heavy metal contamination were investigated on selected biological activities of Callosobruchus maculatus (F.) that were maintained on six cowpea cultivars. The levels of heavy metals; cadmium, lead and arsenic in six cowpea cultivars; Ife Brown, Ife BPC, Oloyin, Drum, Sokoto Local, and Niger White were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry while those of nutrient elements; zinc, sodium, calcium and potassium were determined using flame photometry. The proximate analyses and physico-chemical characterization of the cowpea cultivars were also performed. Callosobruchus maculatus was maintained on the cowpea cultivars and biological activities such as oviposition, adult emergence, percentage seed damage, and weight loss were monitored. The levels of heavy metals, mineral elements and proximate composition differed significantly among the cultivars investigated, and the values were comparable to those reported for cowpea cultivars in other studies. Of the cowpea cultivars, the Ife Brown was the most susceptible to the bruchid C. maculatus infestation while the Drum cultivar was the least susceptible. In conclusion, the results from this study show that the cowpea cultivars differed in the levels of toxic and mineral elements. While there were significant relationships between physical parameters (e. g. seed hardness), proximate composition (moisture contents and crude fibre) and adult emergence and oviposition, there was no strong evidence that the levels of heavy metals and mineral elements play significant role on the biology of C. maculatus.
E. Sotoudeh , R. Bahadori, H. Habibi, I. Naseri Fard,
Volume 7, Issue 4 (12-2018)
Volume 7, Issue 4 (12-2018)
Abstract
The present study was conducted to assess the influence of dietary manganese sulfate nanoparticles on the growth performance, hematology, and blood biochemistry of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). 240 rainbow trout with an average initial weight of 0.8±0.1gr distributed into four treatments with three replicates and were fed with four diets including a control diet (without manganese), Mn-M (containing 10mg/kg manganese sulfate), Mn-N10 (containing 10mg/kg nano manganese), Mn-N15 (containing 15mg/kg nano manganese) for 6 weeks. The fish were hand-fed to satiation four times daily. At the end of the experiment, the average final weight of fish fed diets containing nano Manganese were significantly higher compared to control treatment (p<0.05), however, there was no significant difference compared to the group fed with manganese sulfate (p>0.05). Condition factor (CF) in juveniles fed diets containing Mn sulfate nanoparticles did not show a significant difference compared to those fed with manganese sulfate (Mn-M; p>0.05). The levels of hemoglobin (Hb) in fish fed Mn-N10 diet was significantly higher than fish fed with the control diet. Fish fed diets Mn-N10 and Mn-N15 showed higher plasma albumin compared to the control and Mn-M diets. In general, the results of this study showed that dietary supplementation of manganese sulfate nanoparticles compared to manganese sulfate had no significant impact on growth performance, hematological and biochemical composition of rainbow trout.
Volume 7, Issue 24 (4-2010)
Abstract
Liver and kidney of Iranian water buffalo used to consume as protein sources. The aim of this study was to evaluate macro- and micro-elements content of liver and kidney of water buffalo. The samples were collected from both sexes of slaughtered buffalos (n=40) from two different age groups (mature and immature). A sequence of steps including drying, weighting, dry ashed and acid extract was used to determine mineral composition in liver and kidney. Analysis of the acid digested samples were measured by a atomic absorption apparatus calibrated with standard solutions of the minerals. The results indicated that Potassium is the uppermost mineral found in liver and kidney (326.4 and 212.69 mg/100gr fresh tissue, respectively). Sodium was the second highest mineral was found in liver and kidney (72.2 and 172.32 mg/100gr fresh tissue, respectively). There was no significant differences in mineral of liver and kidney between different sexes of the buffalos. No significant differences in mineral content of both organs were found between mature and immature buffalos.
Volume 8, Issue 4 (9-2020)
Abstract
Aims: Dust phenomenon is one of the natural hazards affecting the arid and semi-arid regions of Iran. It carries large amounts of particulate matter, which have dangerous impacts on human health, environment and vegetation. Therefore, dust is considered as one of the most important environmental problems that have drastically increased in recent times. Recognizing the origin and size of these particles, their chemical and physical properties and their elements are important for controlling and evaluating their effects on human health and the environment.
Materials & Methods: The Kermanshah province is located in the west of Iran and is one of the provinces that receive the most exposure to dust storms. For this investigation, four cities that are exposed to dust were selected: Sar-Pul-e-Zahab (SZ), Gilan-e-Gharb (GG), Islamabad (IA) and Kermanshah (K). For the installation of marble sediment traps in the Kermanshah province, 36 areas were selected. After collecting dust samples, particle size distribution analyses were conducted by using laser size analysis techniques. Chemical compositions were measured with the help of different techniques such as x-ray fluorescence and x-ray diffraction.
Findings: The results showed that the sizes of dust particles varied from 0.0004 to 112 microns, putting them in the range of clay and silt. The particle size in Gilan-e-Gharb was 0.04 to 0.45, Sar-Pul-e-Zahab was 0.04 to 112, Kermanshah 0.04 to 90 and Islamabad 0.0004 to 10 microns. The mineralogical composition of the dust particles mainly constituted quartz, calcite, muscovite, plagioclase feldspar, dolomite and vermiculite. X-ray spectroscopy studies on the dust particles generally showed the presence of aluminum oxide (Al2O3), silicon oxide (SiO2), calcium oxide (CaO), iron oxide (Fe2O3), strontium oxide (SrO) and zinc oxide (ZnO).
Conclusion: In total, the results of this research work show that SrO, ZnO, silicon, aluminum, calcite, iron and their mineralogical compositions are the main oxides and elements in the dust of the Kermanshah province. Furthermore, the predominance of particle sizes in the range of clay and silt suggests that particles have been transmitted from medium to far distances alongside hinting at a similarity in their sources.
Volume 8, Issue 28 (4-2011)
Abstract
One of the most important date producing areas in Iran is Khusestan province. Sayer, zahedi and dairi are the main date variety cultivated with a 75% fraction. Due to its arid conditions this province has the third place in date palm production after Kerman and Hormozgan with 82641 tons date production. The major components in Date palm (Phoenix dactylifena L.) are carbohydrates, which are the most important parameters for commercial quality and nutritional value in this fruit. In this study we assessed the water content, total sugar and energy content of four major date varieties (Sayer, Dairi,Zahedi and Hallawi) from the Khuzestan province. Other proximate date compositions such as the protein content, dietary fibre and essential minerals were also investigated. The mentioned date varieties have more than 65% sugar content and were found to be a good source of energy (333.82-349.68 Kcal/100g), daily recommended dietry fibre intake and mineral components such as iron and phosphorus.
Volume 8, Issue 30 (7-2011)
Abstract
The changes of mineral elements of the Abbot, Alison, Bruno, Monty and Hayward cultivars of kiwifruit (Actinidia deliciosa CV) were obtained from The Iran Research Center of Citrus (Tonekabon, North part of Iran) and were measured by ICP (Inductively Coupled Plasma) in the cold storage (at T= 0-4 0C, RH=75-85%) during 0, 9 and 18 weeks. Content of mineral elements (after harvesting) were in the ranges: Ca (42.726- 79.590), K (279.890-372.271), Mg (18.977-32.799), Na (1.444-2.5), Fe (0.290-0.521), P (31.296-42.221), Cu (0.037-0.207), Zn (0.162-0.308) and Mn (0.042-0.062 mg/100g fw). Statistical analysis showed that, potassium was the main mineral elements in the all studied cultivars and the Alison cultivar had the highest contents of mineral elements. In all cultivars of kiwi fruit the contents of mineral elements was significantly change during cold storage (P<0.01).
Volume 9, Issue 4 (9-2021)
Abstract
Aim Land use change (LUC) not only affects the plant and soil functional properties, but also influences soil nutrients efficiency. This research was carried out to examine the effect of grassland conversion to dry farming on the efficiency of bio-mineral nutrients in semi-arid loamy soils of northwestern Iran.
Materials & methods Animal manure (AM: 100 and 200 g. Kg-1), useful micro-organisms (UMOs: 1 and 2%), superabsorbent polymers (SAP: 10 and 30 g. Kg-1) and potassium nano-silicate (PNS: 500 and 1000 mg. Kg-1) were used for grass Festuca ovina L. cultivated in grassland and dry farming soil at a completely randomized factorial design.
Findings Based on the results, LUC strongly affected the efficiency of soil nutrients especially PNS (P ≤0.01) where the highest and lowest effects of different nutrients were observed under dry farming and grassland, respectively. A maximum difference of 24.0%, 45.0% and 24.0% were observed in plant biomass, chlorophyll, moisture content, respectively, using 200 g. Kg-1 AM and 30 g. Kg-1 SAP in soil of grassland and dry farming. Also, maximum difference of 71.0% and 67.0% occurred at soil phosphorus and organic matter, respectively between grassland and dry farming.
Conclusion depending on the type and amount of fertilizer, convert the grasslands to rainfed areas significantly influence plant performance and soil improvement. Overall, due to the undisturbed soil, grasslands show a better performance than rainfed areas under any rehabilitation program.
Volume 9, Issue 42 (12-2021)
Abstract
Literature Review
So far, two books have been written on mineralogy. First, Mineralogy in Ancient Iran by Zavesh who has made a few mentions of some therapeutic properties of the stones. Second, The Encyclopedia of the Precious and Semi-Precious Stones and Minerals in the Persian Literature, by Mohammadi and Farmani Anosheh who also referred to some medical power of the stones, here and there (Mohammadi & Farmani Anosheh, 2013, pp. 14, 17, 29, 44). Besides these books on mineralogy, Zolfaghari has also touched on some curing qualities in his book Iranian’s Folk Literature (Zolfaghari, 2016, pp. 109, 122, 123, 307). Jahanshahi Afshar, in an article titled ‘Therapeutic Properties of Precious Stones in Ancient Medical and Literal Texts’, has also recounted the healing power of ten stones (see: Jahanshahi Afshar, 2016, pp. 306-315).
Aims, questions, and hypotheses
The main purpose of this study is to investigate the therapeutic features of minerals in ancient texts and to offer a factual and accessible discussion on this topic. The major research question in this essay is: what are the most important stones' curative properties in ancient texts and how these properties can be categorized and analyzed? The basic hypothesis, accordingly, is that there are plenty of discussions about and references to therapeutic properties of minerals in mineralogical and medical texts as well as encyclopedias which through extraction, categorization and analysis give us a clear insight of ancient people’s perception of mineral medications.
Main discussion
Curative qualities of minerals lend themselves to study and analysis from three main perspectives: first, those features which were put in use for psychotherapy, ophthalmology, oral, and nasopharyngeal disease, internal conditions, kidney and bladder ailments, pregnancy and birth giving, arthritis and swellings, skin and hair disorder, wounds and injuries, poisons and antidotes; Second, there are disease preventions, and third, medical instruments.
In psychotherapy, some disorders such as melancholy, lunacy, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease and insomnia were treated by means of stony corals, platinum, gold and silver. Some minerals were also considered to be effective in reliving sadness and raising one’s spirit (Tousi, 2008, p. 149). They also believed that some stones improved quality of sleep (Shahmardan ibn Abi Alkheir, 1983, p. 267). Minerals were used for curing some eye ailments as well (Ansari Shirazi, 1992, p. 174), for example, Malachite was used to treat Slack and Pterygium (Nasiruddin Tousi, 1967, p. 119). They were utilized to treat oral and nasopharyngeal disease, too. Some minerals were put in use to treat internal diseases such as stomach or liver disorder like cirrhosis. Treatment of kidney and bladder was another therapeutic application of minerals. Some traditions related to child birth and pregnancy were rooted in beliefs in supernatural or magical properties of stones. Another important therapeutic application of minerals was treatment of joint disease such as Gout. They were also thought of as effective in dermatology and hair disorders. Injuries also were sometimes treated by minerals. Poisoning and poison related disease were partly cured using minerals. Prevention of some diseases like cholera and plague also was belied to possible by means of minerals and finally, another group of mineral stones were used in making tools like needle, mirror or knife which were also believed to be helpful in curing some ailments.
Conclusion
Reliance on curative properties of minerals which has been documented in resources such as mineralogical and medical texts, encyclopedias and fantasy books, gave them the second important position for curing diseases after herbal and organic treatments. The therapeutic minerals were manufactured and applied in a variety of methods the most important of which were grinding, burning, drinking, eating, coating, fastening, hanging, taking with oneself and watching at them. These treatments covered an extended range of experimental attributes to traditional and popular beliefs.
References
Ansari Shirazi, A. (1992). Ekhtiarat e Badi’i (edited by M. T. Mir). Pakhsh e Razi, Pharmaceutical Co.
Jahanshahi Afshar, A. (2016). Therapeutic properties of precious stones in ancient medical and literal texts. Journal of Islamic and Iranian Traditional Medicine, 7(3) 306-319.
Mohammadi, M., & Farmani Anousheh, N. (2017). The encyclopedia of The precious and semi-precious stones and minerals in the Persian literature. Zavar.
Nasirudin Tousi, M. (1969). Ilkhani’s Tansoukh-Nameh (edited by M. T. Modares Razavi). Iran’s Culture Institute.
Shahmardan ibn Abalkhair. (1983). Alaei’s Nozhatnameh (edited by F. Jahanpour). Cultural Studies and Researchers Institute.
Tousi, M. (2008). Wonder creatures and strange animals. Cultural and Scientific.
Zolfaghari, H., & Shiri, A. (2016). Iranian’s folk literature. Cheshmeh Publication.
So far, two books have been written on mineralogy. First, Mineralogy in Ancient Iran by Zavesh who has made a few mentions of some therapeutic properties of the stones. Second, The Encyclopedia of the Precious and Semi-Precious Stones and Minerals in the Persian Literature, by Mohammadi and Farmani Anosheh who also referred to some medical power of the stones, here and there (Mohammadi & Farmani Anosheh, 2013, pp. 14, 17, 29, 44). Besides these books on mineralogy, Zolfaghari has also touched on some curing qualities in his book Iranian’s Folk Literature (Zolfaghari, 2016, pp. 109, 122, 123, 307). Jahanshahi Afshar, in an article titled ‘Therapeutic Properties of Precious Stones in Ancient Medical and Literal Texts’, has also recounted the healing power of ten stones (see: Jahanshahi Afshar, 2016, pp. 306-315).
Aims, questions, and hypotheses
The main purpose of this study is to investigate the therapeutic features of minerals in ancient texts and to offer a factual and accessible discussion on this topic. The major research question in this essay is: what are the most important stones' curative properties in ancient texts and how these properties can be categorized and analyzed? The basic hypothesis, accordingly, is that there are plenty of discussions about and references to therapeutic properties of minerals in mineralogical and medical texts as well as encyclopedias which through extraction, categorization and analysis give us a clear insight of ancient people’s perception of mineral medications.
Main discussion
Curative qualities of minerals lend themselves to study and analysis from three main perspectives: first, those features which were put in use for psychotherapy, ophthalmology, oral, and nasopharyngeal disease, internal conditions, kidney and bladder ailments, pregnancy and birth giving, arthritis and swellings, skin and hair disorder, wounds and injuries, poisons and antidotes; Second, there are disease preventions, and third, medical instruments.
In psychotherapy, some disorders such as melancholy, lunacy, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease and insomnia were treated by means of stony corals, platinum, gold and silver. Some minerals were also considered to be effective in reliving sadness and raising one’s spirit (Tousi, 2008, p. 149). They also believed that some stones improved quality of sleep (Shahmardan ibn Abi Alkheir, 1983, p. 267). Minerals were used for curing some eye ailments as well (Ansari Shirazi, 1992, p. 174), for example, Malachite was used to treat Slack and Pterygium (Nasiruddin Tousi, 1967, p. 119). They were utilized to treat oral and nasopharyngeal disease, too. Some minerals were put in use to treat internal diseases such as stomach or liver disorder like cirrhosis. Treatment of kidney and bladder was another therapeutic application of minerals. Some traditions related to child birth and pregnancy were rooted in beliefs in supernatural or magical properties of stones. Another important therapeutic application of minerals was treatment of joint disease such as Gout. They were also thought of as effective in dermatology and hair disorders. Injuries also were sometimes treated by minerals. Poisoning and poison related disease were partly cured using minerals. Prevention of some diseases like cholera and plague also was belied to possible by means of minerals and finally, another group of mineral stones were used in making tools like needle, mirror or knife which were also believed to be helpful in curing some ailments.
Conclusion
Reliance on curative properties of minerals which has been documented in resources such as mineralogical and medical texts, encyclopedias and fantasy books, gave them the second important position for curing diseases after herbal and organic treatments. The therapeutic minerals were manufactured and applied in a variety of methods the most important of which were grinding, burning, drinking, eating, coating, fastening, hanging, taking with oneself and watching at them. These treatments covered an extended range of experimental attributes to traditional and popular beliefs.
References
Ansari Shirazi, A. (1992). Ekhtiarat e Badi’i (edited by M. T. Mir). Pakhsh e Razi, Pharmaceutical Co.
Jahanshahi Afshar, A. (2016). Therapeutic properties of precious stones in ancient medical and literal texts. Journal of Islamic and Iranian Traditional Medicine, 7(3) 306-319.
Mohammadi, M., & Farmani Anousheh, N. (2017). The encyclopedia of The precious and semi-precious stones and minerals in the Persian literature. Zavar.
Nasirudin Tousi, M. (1969). Ilkhani’s Tansoukh-Nameh (edited by M. T. Modares Razavi). Iran’s Culture Institute.
Shahmardan ibn Abalkhair. (1983). Alaei’s Nozhatnameh (edited by F. Jahanpour). Cultural Studies and Researchers Institute.
Tousi, M. (2008). Wonder creatures and strange animals. Cultural and Scientific.
Zolfaghari, H., & Shiri, A. (2016). Iranian’s folk literature. Cheshmeh Publication.
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Volume 10, Issue 3 (7-2008)
Abstract
Considerable information exists in the literature showing that expansive layer silicates are not the only clay minerals present in vertisols. However, the presence of a very high clay content dominated by fine clay, regardless of the clay type, together with the wetting and drying cycle in the soil can also produce a high shrink-swell potential. We studied some vertisols with diverse parent materials and climates from western Iran to investigate the role of parent material and climate on formation of these soils. The vertisols of Fars Province (Southwest Iran) have formed on calcareous sediments with ustic-hyperthermic soil moisture and temperature regimes and a mineralogical composition dominated by a palygorskite-chlorite suite. The vertisols of Lorestan Province (Midwest Iran) are also formed from calcareous sediments under the xeric moisture and thermic temperature re-gime, and contain vermiculite as the dominant clay mineral. In Kermanshah Province, vertisols have formed on limestone or in calcareous sediments. They have xeric-thermic soil moisture and temperature regimes. In Ardebil Province, vertisols are formed on vol-canic sediments, and they have xeric-mesic soil moisture and temperature regimes. All vertisols, except those from Fars Province, are classical ones and include montmorillonite in the clay fraction. Our study shows that the interparticle pore size that is controlled by the size of primary particles, regardless of its nature, contributes to the shrink-swell po-tential in the soils we studied in Iran.
Sirwe Ghaderpour, Nasrollah Ahmadifard, Naser Agh, Zakaria Vahabzadeh, Alicia Estevez,
Volume 10, Issue 3 (9-2021)
Volume 10, Issue 3 (9-2021)
Abstract
Despite the positive role of rotifers in many hatcheries for feeding the early stages of aquatic larvae, the lower mineral content of zinc (Zn) is one of the disadvantages of rotifer compared to copepods. Therefore, it is necessary to increase its amounts through enrichment. For this purpose, in the present study, a combination of algae Isochrysis aff. galbana and Nannochloropsis oculata were enriched with zinc sulfate for 1 and 3 hours. Due to obtaining better results in 1 hour, its effects on the growth and enrichment of rotifer were surveyed. The 1: 1 alga composition was enriched with zinc sulfate at concentrations (45, 90, and 135 mg/l). The highest amount of zinc was observed in the mixed algal enriched with 90 mg/l for 1 h, which had the highest copper amount and there was no significant difference with the control group. Also, the manganese amount was higher than the other treatments except for the control group. After feeding the rotifers with enriched algae for 1 hour, the best treatment was 45 mg/l, which also contained the second level of zinc and the first level of manganese, copper, potassium, and sodium. On the other hand, this treatment had the highest number of eggs on the peak day of reproduction treatments (third day) and its population density in the last days was not significantly different from the control group (p <0.05). Zn-enriched rotifers can be used to feed marine fish to meet the nutritional needs of aquatic larvae.
Mahmoud Mohseni, Maryam Aftabgard, Mohammad Hassanzadeh Saber, Kadusa Moazenzadeh,
Volume 11, Issue 1 (3-2022)
Volume 11, Issue 1 (3-2022)
Abstract
This study aims to compare effects of sources levels of zinc on growth and carcass quality, some haematological and serological indices of juvenile beluga sturgeon, Huso huso (Linnaeus, 1758). A number of 315 juvenile beluga sturgeon (8.4±0.29) were fed in 21 500 lit fiberglass tanks (15 fish per tank) under 7 experimental diets including 1 control diet plus 6 diets containing zinc (mg per kg of diet) in two forms of mineral (zinc sulfate) (ZnSul15, ZnSul30, and ZnSul60 treatments) and organic (chelated with methionine) (ZnMet15, ZnMet30, and ZnMet60 treatments) with three replications per treatment for 12 weeks. The best values of final weight and feed conversion ratio were observed in the ZnMet15 and ZnMet60 treatments. Red blood cells, hemoglobin, and hematocrit showed an incremental trend influenced by increased zinc supplement. Increased carcass protein in the ZnMet30 treatment was significant compared to the control, ZnSul15, and, ZnSul30 treatments (P≤0.05). Reduced carcass lipid in the ZnSul30 and ZnSul60 treatments was significant compared to the other treatments (P≤0.05). Serum triglyceride and cholesterol decreased in the ZnMet treatments compared to the control treatment. Reduced serum glucose in the ZnMet15 and ZnMet60 treatments and also increased serum lysozyme in the ZnMet30 and ZnMet60 treatments were significant compared to the control treatment (P≤0.05). Results demonstrated that most of the indices had better performance in the ZnMet treatments comparted to the other treatments and are proposed as an optimal diet for juvenile beluga sturgeon.