Al Hasaad The Community Outreach Magazine College of Agricultural and Marine Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University Sultanate of

May 2010 Management strategies for saline lands and ground waters in Oman (p 4)

Fresher produce Overseas PhDs Farmers’ day p5 p 13 p 11 Postharvest technolo- Three students from Another successful Farmer’s gies not only improve overseas join CAMS Day organized at CAMS. More quality but also reduce for PhD studies than 250 guests visited our cost of fresh produce. facilities Al Hasaad, May 2010 Page 1 Al Hasaad In this issue... 16 Students prepare Research special meals 4 Management of saline Student gained practical land and groundwa- experience in preparing ters special meals in controlled conditionsl Study evaluates strategies to cope with saline water in . News 5 Postharvest technolo- gies improve fresh 3 Excellence in sustain- College of Agricultural and produce able development Marine Sciences (CAMS) Postharvest technologies Juma Al-Mussalami’s project not only improve quality but receives top marks in the AMS was amongst the first also reduce cost of fresh Netherlands. colleges established at Sultan produce. Activities of CAMS Qaboos University in 1986. Its 6 C A catalogue of animal student society vision is to be a regional center of 8 genetic resources in excellence in education, research and Cams students are active in Oman extension in the fields of agricultural promoting their college at and marine sciences. Its objectives, Traditional farm animals need SQU and to the public through 6 departments, are to provide to be recorded and preserved the country with qualified Omanis to for future generations. 7 Workshop on nutrition and physical activity serve the Sultanate in the agricultural, 9 More fish for healthier food and marine sectors and to design diets Workshop emphasized the and execute practical research, in col- role of nutrition on perfor- Fat fish can balance a growing laboration with national and interna- mance and physical activity. defficiency in Omega-3 fatty tional agencies, for sustainable devel- acids in our diets opment of agriculture, fisheries, and 10 New CAMS IIUM join environmental resources. study Fish with higher 14 New study on marine toxicant The College consists of six depart- Omega-3 fatty acids ments: Animal and Veterinary initiatied between CAMS Study shows that modifiying Sciences (AVS), Crop Sciences (CS), and International Islamic the diet of fish in aquaculture Food Science and Nutrition (FSN), University of Malaysia. can affect their nutritional Marine Science and Fisheries (MSF), value. Natural Resources Economics (NRE), 11 Farmer’s day 2009 and Soils, Water and Agricultural Another successful “Famer’s Engineering (SWAE). The depart- In Practice day” organized at CAMS. ments offer ten undergraduate More than 250 guests visited programs and eight postgraduate 12 Exploring soils in the our facilities. (MSc) programs and several PhD areas field of research. Students directly involved in 13 International students soil analysis in the field. attracted to CAMS The newly established 14 Handbook on food doctoral program attracted properties 3 doctoral students from Dr. Shafiur Rahman edited overseas. the second, enhanced edition of the handbook.

Al Hasaad, May 2010 Page 2 Research & higher education in Agriculture and Marine Sciences

The College of Agricultural and Marine ten undergraduate degree programs: Sciences (CAMS) has always encour- Agricultural Engineering, Animal aged both applied and fundamental Science, Crop Sciences, Food Science, research in response to increasing Veterinary Technology, Soil and Water demands on the natural resources Management, Water Technology, of the Sultanate. The results of this Marine Sciences and Fisheries, Natural research effort on the sustainable use Resources Economics, and Human of renewable resources is dissemi- Nutrition & Dietetics. The College nated through specialized scientific has also8 MSc degrees programs journals but also presented at regional and has admitted 8 students in its 4 and international conferences, in newly incepted PhD programs in Crop workshops, in training courses and Sciences, Marine Science and Fisheries, seminars and regularly in newspapers Soil and Water and Food Science and and magazines. It is also used directly Nutrition. in 2009-2010. by our faculty and staff to shape the At any time, CAMS supports thus the new generation of young omanis who research of approximately 40 graduate enter our educational programs. students, a number that we would like To respond to the growing need of to increase through research scholar- the Sultanate to develop safe, en- ships endowed by the private sector. vironmentally friendly, sustainable solution for the exploitation of its natural resources, the College offers Special award recognizes originality in sustainable development

r Juma Al Musalami (NRE) attended a training program Mon ‘Market Access for Sustainable Development’ held at Wageningen University in The Netherlands, in November 2009. There was a total of 35 participants from 21different countries from around the World. During the course participants considered cases related to market access from their respective countries. Juma presented a case for improving the marketing and quality of rose water produced in Jabal Akhdar, in Oman. His case was selected as the best from all the 35 projects presented. The estimated budject for the rose water project was 118,000 Euros. It is antici- pated that the Netherlands Universities Foundation will consider funding this project.

Al Hasaad, May 2010 Page 3 Management strategies of saline lands and in Oman

oil and salinity has high as 7.31 to 13.97 million Omani emerged as the most significant Rials (2005 data). When land goes out Sproblem of present day agricul- of cultivation, the owners may become ture in the Sultanate of Oman. Scanty unemployed creating a socio-econom- rainfall coupled with high temperature ic problem with so many negative is always conducive to the accumula- impacts on society. Thus, salinity is tion of salts. These conditions are pre- a huge threat to the sustainability of dominantly found in Oman. However, agriculture in Oman, especially in Al- human activity in the past has been Batinah. In this context, a research a driving factor for secondary soil project “Management of Salt Affected salinity which has increased at a very Soils and Water for Sustainable rapid rate due to persistent use of Agriculture” was approved for funding saline groundwater, the concentra- from the HM Strategic Research Fund. tion of which has increased with time Research on different aspects of the because of the increased pumping in salinity problem can be conducted the Batinah region. The region has and techniques evolved to mitigate been the most important area for agri- soil and water salinity. Appropriate culture in Oman, encompassing 80,000 solutions which are environmentally ha. The balance that existed between sustainable are to be identified and Salt tolerant plants such as Sorghum pumping and annual recharge before promoted. There is a need to utilize provides a viable alternative to traditional the 1990s has been greatly disturbed, land and water resources of the crops. initially resulting in a reduction of country that are of marginal quality. crop yields and later the gradual aban- The project focused on four approach- economically viable agricultural pro- doning of land. Saline water intrusions es: soil rehabilitation, bio-saline ag- duction in salt affected areas with are also present in some areas of the riculture, fodder production and the saline groundwater; (b) improve food region that are nearer to the sea as the integration of fish culture into crop security of Oman, and (c) combat de- result of over-pumping. Estimates for production to promote compensa- sertification. In this project five depart- salt affected lands are around 44% of tory economic returns to farmers. The ments (Soils, Water and Agricultural the total geographical area and 70% project aimed at developing manage- Engineering, Crop Sciences, Animal of the agriculturally suitable area of ment guidelines which are scientifi- and Veterinary Sciences, Marine the country. The annual losses due to cally sound for farmers (a) to sustain Science and Fisheries as well as Natural salinity have been reported to be as Resources Economics of CAMS from SQU, Agricultural Research Center of Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of Regional Municipalities and Water Resources (MRWR) and International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA) worked together in order to achieve the following objectives.

1. Assess the intensity and extent of salinity in the Batinah region using remotely sensed satellite images and ground truthing

Mulching th soil surface with palm debris lead to significant improvement of the soil quality and increased yield.

Al Hasaad, May 2010 Page 4 and preparation of temporal and crops, and trees for various • Mulching the soil surface with a spatial variation maps of salinity of salt affected regions of Oman. This thin layer of shredded date palm soil and water from GIS. includes introduction of halophytes. residues resulted in lesser salt accu- mulation in the soil resulting in more 2. Determine agronomic 5. Assess the effects of feeding crop yield. solutions (mulching, tillage and salt tolerant forage crops to Omani sowing methods etc.) and nutri- sheep. • Fodder grown in saline soils with tional aspects including microbial saline water has no negative on 6. Integrate fish culture in nitrogen mineralization in saline growth or meat quality of goats. marginal lands. conditions. • Incorporation of aquaculture in 7. Determine socio-economic 3. Determine engineering salinity affected areas was proven costs and benefits of salinity man- and water management solutions feasible and profitable. agement practices in the Al-Batinah (irrigation, sub-irrigation, leaching, region. leveling etc.) to reduce water loss Mushtaque Ahmed and salinization. Summary of findings " Salim Al-Rawahi 4. Determine biological • Salt-tolerant varieties of tomatoes, SWAE solutions by identifying salt tolerant , sorghum and pearl millet can [email protected] be grown successfully in saline soils [email protected] of the Batinah coast. Postharvest technologies reduce losses and improve quality and supply of fresh produce in Oman

he HM Project on postharvest b. Determining the critical quality at- d. Determining respiration rates of technology led by Dr. Linus tributes of fresh produce that are fresh banana and pomegranate to be TOpara has been successfully important to Omani consumers. used for designing modified and con- completed. This strategic project c. Determining nutritional content trolled atmosphere packaging. was formulated as an integrated and and health functionality of tomato, multidisciplinary research and devel- banana, and pomegranate at various opment program that included sub- stage of ripeness under varied condi- Poor handling sometimes results in large stantial capacity building in terms of tions of storage. quality and value losses. supervising postgraduate and senior undergraduate research, as well as research training of technical staff and mentoring of faculty. Oman has a high incidence of losses, inconsistent quality and low economic value of local agricultural products compared with similar imported goods. There is a need to apply in- novative postharvest technologies to address these problems. This project aimed to evaluate the post- harvest losses in the supply chain, and to determine their nutritional and genetic characteristics. This was achieved by performing the following objectives: a. Recording postharvest losses across the fresh food supply chain, and identifying factors causing these losses.

Al Hasaad, May 2010 Page 5 f. Organizing a National Consultative consumer purchase were flavor, and Training Workshop on sweetness, and color for banana “Quantification of Postharvest Losses and date; and flavor, sweetness, and in Omani Fresh Produce” in order to firmness for apple, mango and orange. provide training on the techniques Selected health beneficial nutrient and procedures for identifying and contents in the local banana, tomato assessing postharvest losses. and pomegranate were significantly In the first phase, a supply chain higher than imported ones. The unique analysis was applied to the preliminary alleles obtained by DNA fingerprint for survey data on fresh produce losses at each of the local banana varieties can different handling stages in the food be used for variety identification and supply chain. In the second phase matching between the mother and the critical sensory quality attributes tissue-cultured plants. of selected fresh products, which are A multi-disciplinary team including important to Omani consumers, were faculty, technical staff, undergraduate Respiraton rates of different varieties of determined via questionnaire. The and postgraduate students from SQU banana vary and may require different third phase was conducted by deter- and researchers from the Ministry storage sytems to insure controlled matu- nutritional content and health of Agriculture were involved in the ration and quality. functionality of selected local products. project. In addition, DNA fingerprint of banana varieties grown in the southern areas e. Determining DNA fingerprints of of Oman was. Safiur Rahman banana varieties grown in the southern Total postharvest loss in Oman is high " FSN areas of Oman by Amplified Fragment and varied from 32 to 46%, depending Length Polymorphism (AFLP). on the specific supply chain. The most [email protected] influential quality attributes affecting

Activities of CAMS Student Society

embers of The Agricultural distinctive in their group spirit and in The society received a medal of honor and Marine Sciences Society the unity of the members to accom- in recognition of the care taken to M(AMSS) have habitually dem- plish the required tasks. provide an extra push ahead for the onstrated great commitment and The crowning glory for AMSS was to future. The competition amongst the given creative input to improve their be awarded first place, during the different SQU student societies was activities and programs throughout Student Activities Exhibition for 2009. strong. AMSS managed to secure first the academic year. AMSS activities are place due to the group work which characterized its exhibits. Subsequent to this exhibition AMSS was involved in the organization of “Majors Week” in association with the Center of Career Guidance. This activity provided a platform for anyone with queries related to the majors within the six departments of CAMS. Members of AMSS explained the nature of study at CAMS with each member giving

The exhibition of the competition entries attracted numerous visitors in the College who were captivated by the candidates explanations of their designs..

Al Hasaad, May 2010 Page 6 details about his or her major and was celebrated by SQU along with a AMSS is not only a spoken word; it is providing copies of degree plans and large number of interested people actually the consolidated and devoted brochures for inquiring students. from the community at large. In efforts of its members to achieve its Finally, in terms of college activities, addition, AMSS arranged educational goals and to present the best activities the ‘opening night gathering’ can be workshops to develop the instruc- throughout the year. Therefore, it has considered a turning point for AMSS, tive skills of students as they are the the responsibility to boost the college as it involved launching “Agricultural effective human element in the foun- and its students to excel and to find Echoes” a magazine designed to voice dation of success for any society. The solutions to any obstacles that could the aims and ambitions of CAMS. The strivings for success do not stop; but limit the creativity and distinction of launch occurred concurrently with the rather continue to aim at excellence. CAMS students. Sultanate’s celebrations of the 39th The society has not been complacent National Day. but continues to move forward. This AMSS has not limited itself to activi- is demonstrated by the endeavors Dawood Al-Ajmi ties only within CAMS but has strived of AMSS to make the activities of " AVS to also establish itself outside of the the upcoming “Second Agricultural college. Members participated in the Festival” a success. [email protected] organization of “Farmers’ Day” which

Nutrition and physical activities workshop

FSN recently organized a workshop Sciences addressed the impact of nutrition can be incorporated into on “Nutrition and Physical Activities” the sedentary life style of the Omani physical training. He also discussed under the patronage of Dr. S.A. population on their health status. He the concept of a balanced diet and Prathapar, Dean of CAMS. The addressed the role of diet in obesity mentioned that athletes should event was organized by Dr. Mostafa and explained how diet has to be regularly consume fluid, before, Waly, Assistant Professor of human managed for primary prevention and during and after training. He empha- nutrition. Fifty five participants from combating obesity in Oman. sized that calculating the required diverse backgrounds, including total calories should be based upon Prof. Hashem Al-Kilani, from the students from CAMS, SQU College of an individual’s size and specific Physical Activities Department of Medicine & Health Sciences, Oman training regime. “A high intake the College of Education explained Medical College, healthcare profes- of carbohydrate is particularly the importance of physical activity sionals from SQU Hospital, medical important for athletes as it enables in maintaining health and how residents from The Royal Hospital, dietitians from the Ministry of Dr. Mostafa Waly, organizer of the workshop on “Nutrition and Physical Activities” Education, officers from The Armed welcomes the participats. Forces Hospital and fellows from the Ministry of Health participated in the workshop. Three experts from SQU delivered lectures in the workshop. Dr. Amanat Ali, Associate Professor (FSN), focused on the Glycemic Index of traditional Omani foods and their health implications. He illustrated how composite local Omani foods are contributing to the rise in blood sugar levels and the elicited insulin response. This is of particular impor- tance to type 2 diabetic patients and other high risk groups. Dr. Yahya Al-Farsi, Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, College of Medicine and Health

Al Hasaad, May 2010 Page 7 athletes to train at a higher intensity, 1.3-1.8g protein per kg body mass Mostafa Waly for longer duration and enhances each day. A high fat intake in diet recovery”. Athletes should consume should be avoided athletes should " FSN 5-12g of carbohydrate per kg body consume less than 1g fat per kg [email protected] mass daily. Adequate protein in the body mass each day”, Dr. Al Kilani diet is required for muscle and body explained. building and for repairing tissues. In addition, athletes should consume

Characterization, Evaluation and Conservation of Indigenous Animal Genetic Resources in the Sultanate

he importance of animal bio- Oman has noticeable biodiversity in This involves the replacement of the diversity for the integrity and local animals that are adapted to the generally viable lower yielding breeds Tsustainability of the biosphere unique and diverse topographic and with introduced ones. and human society was recognized climatic conditions of the Sultanate. It is also recognized that indigenous by the United Nations Convention There is currently a decline in global animal breeds have emerged in Oman on Biological Diversity. The diversity biodiversity which threatens genetic by selection for survival since their of species, strains and breeds is the diversity, the raw materials for food introduction long ago, most probably basis for the development of highly and other by-products. As in many from Western Asia. Little work has productive livestock populations. It developing countries, the Sultanate of been carried out to identify or conserve also allows animals to thrive in the Oman has introduced several modern these breed which are well adapted to face of harsh climatic conditions, animal species (bred and selected in Omani conditions. A parallel effort is pests or diseases. Conservation of other countries) into the research needed to evaluate the reproductive indigenous genetic resources is vital programs and released to farmers. and production performance of local for the development of new, and im- livestock to complement the genetic provement of existing, animal species. improvement work. At present, native Omani breeding males are selected Goats are numerous but also very diverse. One of the aim of this study is to catalogue on the basis of subjective evaluation the morphological and genetic diversity of these animals. of physical appearance and visual ob- servation of the testes and no semen collection and evaluation is performed before animals are used for breeding purposes. Accurate and reliable infor- mation on genetic distances within and among Omani breeds and about the contribution of the respective breeds to the total diversity is required in order to make the most optimal use of breeding programs. The animal genetic resources available to farmers and biotechnicians have been radically reduced this century by the advance of high input, intensive farming systems that tend to rely on developing a small number of produc- tive breeds or strains, leading to the ex- tinction of many well-adapted genetic

Al Hasaad, May 2010 Page 8 resources. Indigenous knowledge and efficiency of Omani breeding animals of Goettingen, Germany, will study cultural diversity is also lost with this and establish a semen bank for future the genetic diversity of Omani native erosion of farm genetic resources. genetic improvement programs. chicken. To ensure that valuable genetic Performance of local breeds of Omani Drs Albano Pereira from the University resources and indigenous knowledge chicken and cattle will be evaluated. of Porto in Portugal and Mushtaq are preserved this project aims to Samples have been collected from Memon, from Washington State survey, identify, characterize and goats from Al-Jabal Al-Akhdar and Al- University visited SQU as consul- conserve indigenous breeds that are Sharqiya. Mr. Nasser Al-Areimi from tants on the project. They organized economically useful by incorporat- the Ministry of Agriculture is currently workshops to train Omani postgradu- ing molecular approaches. This will carrying out an MSc study to evaluate ate students and technical staff. They accelerate the utilization of Omani the genetic resources of South Al- also contributed to calibrate and livestock in the development of new Sharqiya goats. Ms. Karima Al-Sinani operate laboratory equipments and breeds and or improve the productiv- from University of Sohar is registered revised technical methods. ity of the currently available ones. The as an MSc student to evaluate genetic proposal also aims to provide ana- diversity in native cattle in collabora- Osman Mahgob lytical and objective analysis for the tion with the Ministry of Agriculture. genetic diversity within Omani breeds Mr. Badr Al-Qamashoui who is regis- " AVS as a rational basis for conservation and tered as a PhD student in the University [email protected] improvement. Additionally, efforts will be made to evaluate the reproductive

More Fish on the Dish: How Omega-3 Fatty Acids Can Improve our Health

utrigenomics is the science termined by genetic factors; whilst en- provides a molecular understanding that studies the effects of vironmental factors determine which of how nutrition affects health by Nfoods and food constituents genetically susceptible individuals will altering the expression of genes. By on gene expression, and is the future be affected. using new nutrigenomic techniques, of Nutrition. Prof. Bassam Soussi, So, do you want to reduce your risks the SQU team conducted studies on UNESCO Chair and Professor in Marine of succumbing to the many chronic the interaction between fatty acids Biotechnology at SQU said that nu- diseases? Do you know that there are and genes. trigenomics has been introduced good fats and bad fats? Do you know into the curriculum because this Overview of fatty acids and where you can find them? Do you their role in the body field of science addresses molecular know how they work? Many epidemio- level issues in the area of nutrition. logical studies have shown that a diet Fat adds flavor to our dishes and helps “It also addresses questions such as that is rich in fish, such as salmon and us feel full for longer. Fatty acids are what foods are good for people, how sardines is associated with a reduced found in oil and other fats that make are such foods metabolized, what risk of heart disease, cancer and many up different foods. Besides their main are the beneficial mechanisms, and other diseases. We all need some fat function as an energy source; fatty is there anything people can do to in our diet. However, the trick is to acids carry fat-soluble vitamins (A, improve their dietary habits and con- choose foods that contain good fats D, E, and K) and are a source of an- sequently their health. Nutrition and (unsaturated) as opposed to bad fats tioxidants and bioactive compounds. health are closely related but their (saturated). Nevertheless, the story In addition, dietary fatty acids are in- interrelationship is still poorly under- does not end at the selection of foods corporated as structural components stood at a molecular level because that mainly contain unsaturated fatty of the brain and cell membranes. This this science (nutrigenomics) is in its acids because these are further divided is because unlike the cellular proteins infancy. However, it is able to change into subgroups. that are genetically determined, poly- our future in regard to nutrition at the unsaturated fatty acid composition of Nutrigenomic research is defining the gene expression level”, he added. the cell membrane is, to a great extent, mechanisms by which genes influence dependent on dietary intake. In turn, In the last two decades, by utilizing nutrient absorption, metabolism and the type of these fatty acids dictates the techniques of molecular biology, excretion and the mechanisms by how a cell responds and grows. Cells it has been proven that the suscepti- which nutrients influence gene ex- without a healthy membrane lose bility of an individual to diseases is de- pression. In particular, nutrigenomics their ability to hold water and vital

Al Hasaad, May 2010 Page 9 nutrients. They also lose their ability with atherosclerosis. Finally, omega-3- fatigue, dry and itchy skin, brittle hair to communicate with other cells. fatty acids help to prevent cancer cell and nails, inability to concentrate and Researchers believe that loss of cell to growth. joint pain. Moreover, omega-3 fatty cell communication is one of the phys- acid deficiency may lead to other iological events that lead to growth A balanced ratio of omega-6/ health problems such as Alzheimer’s of cancerous tumors. Moreover, fatty omega-3 fatty acids disease, cancer, asthma, attention acids help move oxygen through the Nowadays, industrialized countries deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), bloodstream to all parts of the body. are characterized by an increased bipolar disorder, high blood pressure, energy intake and decreased energy Huntington’s disease, multiple Importance of omega-3 fatty expenditure, an increase in omega-6 sclerosis, obesity, osteoarthritis, os- acids fatty acids, and trans fatty acids, and teoporosis, psoriasis and rheumatoid There are many benefits of the intake a decrease in omega-3 fatty acids, a arthritis. of high omega-3 foods: it maintains decrease in complex carbohydrates Today there is evidence that nutrients the fluidity of cell membranes, reduces and fibers, an increase in cereal grains can influence chronic diseases but inflammation through the body, keeps and a decrease in and vegeta- more research is needed at the blood from clotting excessively, bles and a decrease in protein, anti- molecular level to establish the rela- lowers the amount of lipids (choles- oxidants, and calcium intake.?? tionship between certain nutrients terol and triglycerides) circulating in Unfortunately, western diets are and diseases. Overall, a lower ratio of the bloodstream, decreases platelet deficient in omega-3 fatty acids omega-6 to omega-3 is more effective aggregation which prevents excessive and very rich in omega-6 fatty acids in reducing the risk of many chronic blood clotting, inhibits thickening of compared with the diet on which diseases of high risk in Western the arteries by decreasing endothelial humans evolved. This high omega-6/ societies, as well as in the develop- cells’ production of a platelet-derived omega-3 ratio promotes the patho- ing countries. Therefore, salmon, growth factor, increases the activity genesis of many diseases such as car- flax seeds and walnuts are excellent of another chemical derived from en- diovascular disease, cancer, autoim- food sources of omega 3 fatty acids. dothelial cells (endothelium-derived mune and inflammatory diseases. On Otherwise, supplements containing nitric oxide), which causes arteries to the other hand, high levels of omega 3 omega-3 fatty acids may also be ben- relax and dilate. Moreover, omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids exert sup- eficial. fatty acids reduce the risk of becoming pressive effects. A diet rich in omega-6 obese and improve the body’s ability fatty acids shifts the physiological Abeer Al-Thehli to respond to insulin by stimulating state that increases blood viscosity, " Hala Al-Hakamani the secretion of leptin. In addition, vasospasm, and vasoconstriction and omega-3 fatty acids reduce the pro- decreases bleeding time. The main Kareema Al-Henai duction of messenger chemicals symptoms of deficiencies in omega Zahra Al-Kharousi called cytokines, which are involved in 3 fatty acids include depression, car- the inflammatory response associated diovascular disease, type II diabetes, FSN

CAMS-IIUM study on marine toxicants

wo members of CAMS, Drs Drs Stephen Goddard and Said Al-Barwani meeting with the Rector of IIUM (3rd from Stephen Goddard and Said Al- left) and senior faculty of the Institute of Oceanography and Maritime Studies in Kuala TBarwani, are working on a col- Lumpur. laborative research project with the International Islamic University of Malaysia to explore the accumulation of heavy metals in shellfish. The project was jointly funded by SQU and IIUM in 2009 and has involved exchanges of faculty, researchers and a graduate student. The major objectives are to identify key ‘indicator’ species of shellfish, common to both countries which can be used to monitor heavy metal accumulation in the coastal marine environment.

Al Hasaad, May 2010 Page 10 Farmer’s day 2009

utreach and Community service are key functions of Othe College of Agricultural and Marine Sciences (CAMS) at Sultan Qaboos University (SQU). As part of its outreach services for 2009, the College organized Farmer’s Day on 9 November 2009 at its Agricultural Experiment Station (AES) under the auspices of H.E. Khalfan bin Saleh Al-Naabi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Agriculture. Over 250 farmers plus extension spe- cialists from all around the Sultanate met at CAMS and discussed the latest developments in science and technol- ogy relevant to farmers and agricul- ture. The event included several activities including presentations (followed by Opening ceremony of Famers’ day 2009.. discussions) by CAMS professors high- lighting the latest results of research projects conducted at CAMS related to the plant and animal sectors. Two invited farmers gave presentations on projects conducted at CAMS. It included the contact details of PIs of each their long and successful experiences project so that they can be contacted for further details so as to enhance the in hydroponic systems in protected ag- link between CAMS and the community. riculture structures and in establishing and managing agricultural societies. Guests were given a live demonstration on the process of grafting and how to use modern equipment in the compo- sition of rations to feed animals. A tour program inside the Agricultural Experiment Station was also a part of the event included visits to glass- houses; the seeder machines area; the bee keeping house and the camels’ research project area. Several companies, environment societies, and stakeholders in agri- cultural development and supply in the Sultanate of Oman participated in the exhibition area along with the six CAMS departments and student’s society. The exhibition gave an op- portunity to showcase the activities of these organizations to farmers and other participants, and also to interact with other participants and visitors.

A “Farmer’s Guide” booklet was issued Technicians demonstrate the use of some farm machinery for the benefit of farmers. and distributed to all participants. It provided a summary of research

Al Hasaad, May 2010 Page 11 Exploring Soils in the field

Students examine a salt affected soil in the Al-Batinah region.

oils, as natural bodies in a The tour involved the field study of the soils such as salinity and pH were landscape cannot be understood those physical and morphological also measured using portable meters. Swithout going into their natural properties of soil pedons existing on Many soil samples were collected by habitat. Studying soils in the field is an a soil transect of Al-Batinah region. the students for detailed physico- important part for anyone interested The main objectives of the tour were: chemical analyses in the soil research in getting closer to the world of soil (i) to gain practical and hands-on ex- lab at CAMS. science. Fieldwork is an important perience in describing and classify- As a major part of the courses final part of learning about soils in any ing soils, (ii) to study the influence of report, students were asked: (i) to soil science degree program. In fact, soil formation factors namely climate, discuss and interpret all laboratory a student’s concept and understand- parent material, organisms, topogra- and field data, (ii) to write a technical ing of soil depends on direct experi- phy and time on soils of Al-Batinah report and present it to the depart- ence in the field. Moreover, examining region, (iii) to show the impact of ment, and (iii) to write short articles to soils in their natural condition should human activities and their contribu- several newspapers emphasizing their broaden a student’s understanding of tion on the formation and develop- main objectives and scientific findings those factors responsible for having ment of salt affected soils and (iv) to from the tour. different types. In addition, studying evaluate the different soils in terms of soils in the field is an excellent op- their land use and management. portunity for students to implement A soil transect extending from Nakhal the basic concepts of soil science in to Barka was selected for intensive Said Al-Ismaily understanding soil-landscape rela- fieldwork. Several soil pedons were " SWAE tionships. In this context, students dug, examined, described, and clas- from the Department of Soils, Water, sified using standard procedures. [email protected] and Agricultural Engineering at CAMS Several field soil parameters such as recently conducted a field trip to Al- soil texture, percent gravels, structure Batinah region. The field trip was part and color were estimated and identi- of the Soil and Water Tour course (SWAE fied as a part of the hands-on learning 4410) required of final year students. experience. Chemical properties of

Al Hasaad, May 2010 Page 12 International Students Attracted to CAMS for Doctoral Programs

nternational students pursuing She is working on the taxonomy and ternational faculties available for the doctoral programs within the ecology of benthic elasmobranchs in students. The academics maintain Idifferent colleges at SQU expressed the Gulf of Oman under the supervision friendly relations with the students. gratification at the quality and structure of Dr. Aaron C. Henderson, Assistant They are unassuming and really coop- of the programs and also for the first- Professor in the Department. erative. They maintain better relations class human resources providing Vandita Singh, who is from Lucknow, with student as compared to the support to these programs. A signifi- in India. is doing a PhD in FSN. Vandita scenario in India where teachers are cant number of the doctoral students completed her undergraduate and stricter with students at least within are international students. For 2010 postgraduate degrees in Organic the classrooms”, Alfie observes. She The Deanship of Postgraduate Studies Chemistry at Lucknow University was looking for PhD opportunities announced one Postgraduate Diploma before pursing a career in a phar- in India. “After coming to SQU, I am program, 25 PhD programs and 50 maceutical company. Vandita said fascinated by the institution and the Masters programs spread across the that the instruments available in the people here and I decided to join here eight colleges. labs are highly advanced and com- without thinking twice” says Alfie who Dareen Al Mojil, a Kuwaiti national mendable. “I got the opportunity to is investigating the molecular biologi- pursuing a PhD in fisheries science, do experiments with state of the art cal aspects of herbicide resistance in completed a bachelor’s degree in equipment some of which I have never weeds. Zoology at Kuwait University and a seen before. The academics are well There are eight PhD students in CAMS, Master’s degree in Fisheries from qualified, which is obvious from the five of which are nationals from various James Cook University in Australia. profiles. They are really cooperative government organizations including Dareen selected SQU because of and the total ambience at the univer- the Ministry of Agriculture. Almost all her interest in the subject and the sity is really good”, Vandita adds. She PhD scholars are getting scholarships region. “The faculty members in the is gearing up to do doctoral research or other kinds of financial assistance Marine Science and Fisheries depart- on medicinal plants under Dr. Nejib from CAMS. The response to the ment are really helpful and friendly. Guizani, Associate Professor in the newly introduced doctoral programs Faculty is extremely important when Department. has been overwhelming, each day, the pursuing a doctoral degree because Alfie Susan Abraham, a PhD scholar college is receiving new enquiries. Two we are working closely with a particu- from Kerala, India is attached to CS. more candidates have been accepted lar faculty member. Apart from that, After completing B. Tech and M Tech for admission to the PhD program in we have a state of the art laboratory in Biotechnology from reputed Indian Fall 2010. and equipment at our disposal”, says universities. Her parents, who are Dareen. Hailing from an Arab country, employed in Oman, suggested doing Mushtaque Ahmed Dareen interacting well with people a PhD at SQU. The university bestowed at the university. “The culture, in a scholarship which was an additional " SWAE general, is slightly different from that benefit for Alfie Susan. “The university [email protected] of Kuwait. Still, I feel very comfortable is pretty and nice with most of the in- with the people around”, she adds. Dareen Al Mojil Vandita Singh Alfie Susan Abraham

Al Hasaad, May 2010 Page 13 Second Edition of the Food Properties Handbook published

he second edition of the Food an indispensable resource for prac- more than 10 years. In 2008 Professor Properties Handbook has been ticing and research food technolo- Rahman ranked among the top five Trecently released by CRC Press, gists, engineers, and scientists, and Leading Scientists and Engineers of 57 Boca Raton, Florida. The second a valuable text for upper-level under- OIC Member States in the Agroscience edition has been expanded from 7 to graduate and graduate students in Discipline. 24 chapters. It is now more than ten food, agricultural/biological science years since the publication of the inter- and engineering. It is presented in nationally acclaimed, award winning a user-friendly format, and is a de- and bestselling first edition. The new finitive source for data on physical, edition provides new measurement thermal, thermodynamic, structural techniques, basic data compiled for and acoustic properties of foods. diversified food groups, and detailed Professor Rahman is an eminent graphs and illustrations. scientist and academic in the area The editor of the book Professor of Food Processing and is the editor Mohammad Shafiur Rahman, is a of another bestseller “Handbook Professor in FSN. Appreciation from of Food Preservation” published by scientists, academics and industry CRC Press, Florida. He was invited to professionals around the globe serve as one of the Associate Editors encouraged Professor Rahman to for the Handbook of Food Science, produce an updated version. Current Engineering and Technology, and methods of food processing and one of the Editors for the Handbook preservation require accurate data on of Food and Bioprocess Modeling food properties; simple, accurate, and Techniques, published by CRC Press, low-cost measurement techniques; FL. He initiated the International prediction models based on funda- Journal of Food Properties (Taylor and mentals; and links between different Francis, Philadelphia, PA) and served properties. This second edition will be as the founding Editor-in-Chief for Omega-3 enhanced fish

quaculture research conducted effective in the prevention or attenua- benefits linked to fatty acid content at CAMS has demonstrated the tion of many cardiovascular problems should therefore be qualified by Apotential to produce omega-3 and inflammatory conditions. reference to particular species. fatty acid enhanced red tilapia, which Confusingly, for health-conscious Freshwater fish are grown for food may offer additional health benefits consumers, all fish are not equal with in tropical and sub-tropical regions to those normally associated with regard to their natural HUFA content. around the world and tilapia are eating this fish. Polyunsaturated fatty Whilst we are recommended to eat estimated by FAO to be the most acids (PUFA) are essential for normal ‘oily’ fish such as , salmon or widely farmed, with global produc- human growth and development, mackerel on a regular basis, these tion exceeding two million tonnes per whilst intake of omega-3 PUFAs, spe- species contain varied amounts of year. In common with many freshwa- cifically the highly unsaturated fatty HUFA, which are also subject to consid- ter species tilapia are relatively poor acids (HUFA) docosahexaenoic (DHA) erable seasonal variation. For example, in HUFA, compared with most marine and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) is we should need to eat up to 4-5 times species. This arises from the fact that considered to be beneficial against the amount of tuna, compared to that marine algae are a primary source of many human health disorders. There of farmed Atlantic salmon, to achieve HUFA and are directly or indirectly is considerable evidence from clinical the same intake of HUFA. The recom- consumed by fish within marine food and epidemiological research that mendation to consume fish for health chains. A study was undertaken to increased intakes of DHA and EPA are

Al Hasaad, May 2010 Page 14 determine the potential to increase the content of beneficial polyunsaturated fatty acids in farmed tilapia through Nasser Al-Jardani feeding red hybrid dietary manipulation. The research tilapia with modified diet enhancing their was led by Dr Stephen Goddard, Chair Omega-3 fatty acids profiles. of MSF and was supported by a HM grant to the UNESCO Chair in Marine Biotechnology, Professor Bassam Soussi. Feeding trials Red hybrid tilapia were imported as tiny fry from Thailand and nursed through the early stages of life in tanks supplied with ground-water at AES. On reaching a weight of around 15 grams the fish were sorted into triplicate treatment groups and fed on a range of experimental diets in which marine fish oil was gradually substi- tuted against plant oil. A number of key dietary ingredients were gener- ously provided by Oman Flour Mills. Various parameters of growth and feed efficiency were measured and when the fish had grown to 3-4 times their original weight they were sampled and analysed for total lipid and fatty acid content. In particular, the fatty acid rakers which enable them to filter algal University and the Institute of Brain content of the dorsal muscle (fillets) cells as food. Continuous feeding in Chemistry and Human Nutrition, was compared in fish taken from the this way occurs throughout the hours London. of day-light. Algal species and concen- various treatment groups. Ahmed Al-Souti, Nasr Al-Jardani trations in pond water samples were Whilst the experiments were designed and Jamal Al-Sabahi, members of determined and then analysed for total to answer a number of questions con- the technical staff in CAMS, made lipid and fatty acid content. The results cerning lipid nutrition in tilapia and its major contributions to this project. indicated a significant contribution of effects on growth and feed efficiency, Ahmed Al-Souti incorporated some beneficial fatty acids in fish feeding on the results also clearly showed that the of the results into his successfully natural phytoplankton, compared with HUFA content of tilapia fillets could completed M.Sc. research project. fish grown in clear-water systems and be manipulated favourably through Nasr Al-Jardani was recently awarded fed on formulated feeds. diet. Both EPA and DHA content were a British Council scholarship and is increased significantly in the fillets Functional food presently studying for a M.Sc. degree as fish oil was increased in their diet. in aquaculture at Stirling University The results obtained in this research Results for EPA were more conserva- in the UK. point the way to future production of tive than for DHA, confirming earlier farmed fish as functional food, with observations that dietary EPA may extended health benefits. Production be used preferentially as an energy of such fish, using organic and source, through cellular oxidative sustainable methods should give pathways. positive direction to future aquacul- Beneficial Algae ture developments in Oman. In parallel with the feeding experi- Preliminary results of this research ments conducted at AES, samples of were presented at the ‘International Stephen Goddard algae were collected from other fish Conference on the Economic " HOD, MSF farms in Oman in order to determine Importance of Fisheries and their the contribution of freshwater algae to Impact on Public Health’ , held in [email protected] the omega-3 content of farmed fish. Muscat in 2008, and organised by Pond water at all farms contains algae the Ministry of Fisheries Wealth, and tilapia have finely-structured gill CAMS (SQU), London Metropolitan

Al Hasaad, May 2010 Page 15 Students prepare modified meals in a 2 week hands-on exercise s a part of clinical nutrition their assigned meals. The evaluation training, final year “nutrition committee was headed by Dr. Majeed Aand dietetics’ students Al-Ani, course instructor, Mrs. Jamila practiced diet modification in the Al-Zadjali, teaching assistant, and Mr. department experimental kitchen. Mohammed Al-Rizeiqi, department su- Students were divided into groups perintendent. Many of the faculty and and assigned different meals and staff of the department participated modifications. Required food ingre- in the discussions and sensory evalu- dients were identified quantified and ation purchased by the students from local markets. Modified versions of Omani meals were prepared to meet the Ameera Al-Nasri needs of diabetic and heart disease " Student in FSN patients. The nutrient and calorie content of the meals were calculated. Each group presented their meals with and without modifications. The meals were then evaluated and the students A selection of the modified meals discussed the nutrient content, safety, prepared by Nutrition and Dietetics sensory evaluation, and alternative students during their training. methods of preparation related to

Editorial board Yaseen A. Al-Mulla Editor in Chief Ann Mothershaw Editor Michel Claereboudt Design and typesetting Hayder Abdel Rahman Editor-Translator Ali AL-Wahaibi Translator Mike Deadman News editor Mostafa Waly Translator Said Al-Ismaily Editor Suleiman Al-Shuaili Translator Hemesiri Kotagama Editor Juma Al-Musalami Translator Sulayem Al-Abri Photography Huda Al-Busaidi Typing

Contributions Contributions for inclusion in Al Hasaad are most welcome. Please contact the address below. Mailing address Assistant Dean for Training and Community Services, College of Agricultural and Marine Sciences, Box 34 Sultan Qaboos University Al-Khod 123 Sultanate of Oman email: [email protected] Tel: (968) 24143638 Fax: (968) 24413418

Al Hasaad, May 2010 Page 16