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The enzyme activity of catechol oxidase (CO) give rise to enzymatic browning, leading to undesirable changes in fruits and vegetables. The aim of this work is to investigate the inhibitory effect of five essential oils (EOs) on CO from date fruits (Phoenix dactylifera). Catechol oxidase has been purified from date fruit through three-phase partitioning (TPP). Essential oils were extracts from Artemisia herba-alba, Artemisia campestris, Thymus vulgaris, Origanum vulgare, and Salvia Rosmarinus, and were tested against CO. The composition of these five essential oils was then identified using GC-MS. Major constituents identified were camphor (20.91%) and davanone D (19%) for A. herba alba, capillene (47.79%) for A. compestris, thymol (33.75%) and linalool (30.44%) for T. vulgaris, carvacrol (68.60%) for O. vulgare, and camphor (33.89%) for S. Rosmarinus. The EO from A. campestris was the most potent inhibitor of enzyme (IC50 = 3.44±0.09 mg/mL) while the weakest effect was observed for EO of O. vulgare (IC50 = 10.24±0.29 mg/mL). Different mechanism of inhibition was obtained. Hence, a competitive inhibition for both EOs of A. herba-alba and T. vulgaris, uncompetitive behavior for A. campestris, noncompetitive mechanism for S. rosmarinus and O. vulgare were observed. The docking molecular of those major constituents was investigated using crystal structure of CO from Ipomoea batatas (1BT1). The best-docked compound was davanone D (-5.55 kcal/mol) while camphor show weaker docking scores (3.79 kcal/mol). Thus, the results from our work could be important and offer an approach of control enzymatic browning using essential oils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pharmaceutical research sector's inability to develop new drugs has made it challenging to combat microbial resistance. Secondary metabolites from plant extracts have been identified as potential protective agents against multi-drug-resistant bacteria. This study aimed to analyze hydro-ethanol extracts' antioxidant and antimicrobial activities from various parts of the Zahidi date (whole fruit, pit powder, and flesh). Phytochemical screening of phenolic and flavonoid compounds was performed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Total phenolic and flavonoid compounds were extracted at their maximum levels, 71.89 mg/100 g and 843.06 mg/100 g, respectively, using EoH 60%. The whole fruit had the highest concentration of flavonoid quercetin (0.83 μg/g) and phenolic compoundsinapic acid (20.03 μg/g) at the same concentration. The findings from the broth micro-dilution method showed that the whole fruit had the strongest antimicrobial effects at 60% EoHagainst Salmonella typhi (30 mg/ml), Helicobacter pylori (27 mg/ml), Escherichia coli (22 mg/ml), and Staphylococcus aureus (44 mg/ml). Zahidi whole fruit extracts showed higher antioxidant potential at EoH 60% using 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging potential (78%) and ferric-reducing antioxidant power. Principal component analysis (PCA) revealed a significant negative correlation between antioxidant activity and the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). Evidence from this study highlights the considerable antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of Zahidi date fruit, suggesting its potential use in producing natural drugs and value-added foods to counteract contagious diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Appraised for being one of the oldest staple nutritive foods mainly in the Arabian Peninsula, the date palm tree (Phoenix dactylifera L.), is a crop native to the subtropical and tropical regions of Southern Asia and Africa. Different parts of the date tree have been extensively studied for their nutritional and therapeutic properties. Despite an array of publications on the date tree, there has been no attempt to compile in a single study the traditional uses, nutritive value, phytochemical profile, the medicinal properties as well as the potential of the different plant parts as a functional food. Therefore, this review endeavors to systematically review the scientific literature to highlight the traditional uses of date fruit and parts around the world, the nutritional profile of several parts and the medicinal properties. A total of 215 studies was retrieved (traditional uses (n = 26), nutritional (n = 52), and medicinal (n = 84)). Scientific articles were further categorized as in vitro (n = 33), in vivo (n = 35), and clinical (n = 16) evidences. Date seeds were found to be effective against E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Aqueous date pollen was used to manage hormonal problems and boost fertility. Palm leaves showed anti-hyperglycemic effects via inhibition of α-amylase and α-glucosidase. Unlike previous studies, this study highlighted the functional roles of all the plant parts of the palm tree and provided insights into the various mechanism of action of their bioactive compounds. Although scientific shreds of evidence have been growing over the years, there is still a dearth of studies concerning the clinical validation of the date fruit and other plant parts to provide strong evidence on their medicinal uses. In conclusion, P. dactylifera can be regarded as a potent medicinal plant with prophylactic potential and should be further explored to alleviate the burden of both communicable and non-communicable diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The environmental effects on the response of Date Palm Fiber (DPF) composites are explored through an in-depth analysis of water absorption behavior. This study comprehensively investigates the influence of fiber content, immersion time, and water type on mass gain. Rigorous experimentation and advanced statistical analyses quantify the percent contribution of each factor, emphasizing the dominant role of fiber content at 96.61%. While immersion time and water type contribute relatively smaller percentages (2.11% and 1.28%, respectively), their insights are invaluable for tailored composite design. The study extends to interaction effects, showcasing the combined influence of factors. Regression models, progressing from linear and reciprocal formulations to comprehensive global models, are developed. Meticulous examination of prediction accuracy, using diverse statistical metrics, highlights the superior performance of the global reciprocal model across different water types. This work provides essential insights for optimizing DPF composite design, fabrication, and application, empowering engineers and researchers to make informed decisions in industries demanding tailored water absorption behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Technologies like bunch covers have been shown to improve quality of date fruits. It is one of the approaches which are believed effective to protect the most sensitive stage of date fruit from autumnal rain and carob date. An experimental procedure is set up to allow farmers to predict, analyze, and optimize cover bunch performance after its use in protection applications and to select the ideal bag. The cover quality is designed based on a mathematical model and further optimized using MINITAB. From this analysis, the impact of each individual parameter on the desired response parameters has been studied. The results proved that the best cover could be found in optimal conditions. Using the influential parameters as tear strength, tensile strength, weight, air permeability and resistance to water penetration, the results indicate that the cover bunch remains influenced after harvesting period by the resistance to water penetration properties and tear strength as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Date palm tree (Phoenix dactylifera) has traditionally been grown in South-West Asia and North Africa, principally for date fruit consumption. Nevertheless, its cultivation has recently spread to other areas of America, sub-Saharan Africa, Oceania and Southern Europe. During date fruit processing, several by-products are generated, like low-quality dates, pits, leaves and pollen. These wastes, together with the date fruit, constitute an important source of biocomponents such as hydroxycinnamic and hydroxybenzoic acids, flavonoids, tannins, carotenoids, tocopherols, tocotrienols, phytosterols and phytoestrogens. This review provides detailed information about the sensory properties, nutritional profile and biocompounds with health-promoting properties present in date fruit and its by-products. Furthermore, recent findings regarding the potential of these products to develop new functional foodstuffs was also highlighted. Several studies have reported that the date fruit and its by-products present an outstanding richness in bioactive compounds with potential healthy properties that make them suitable to be used as nutraceutical ingredients in several foodstuffs. Their incorporation in the formulation of foods would contribute to cover the increasing demand of consumers by products elaborated with natural ingredients. Moreover, an important aspect to take into account is that food matrixes are an excellent vehicle for the availability of biomolecules present in the date palm products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

According to literature survey, many works have dealt with studying the effect of some bags on biological, chemical and physical quality of date fruit. In this study, RSM (response surface methodology) modeling and desirability function methods were applied and compared to predict the overall quality of cover date bunch samples. Five nonwoven bagging product are selected to be examined that are used for the first time on date palm sector. The results proved that a high quality of bagging product could be obtained in optimal conditions. Using the influential parameters and optimized conditions as fabric weight, thickness, air permeability, resistance to water penetration, tear strength and tensile strength, the results indicate that the cover date bunch remains influenced especially by the air permeability properties and tensile strength as well. Desirability function has been proven to be effective to achieve ideal design performance. The results show that the highest desirability reached is 0.6.However, the efficient approaches to identify the relevant parameters and the relation between different quality features and parameters have not been completely studied. To overcome the gap, a combined method including desirability function and response surface methodology (RSM) was proposed. Referring to previous works, desirability function allows a high level of flexibility over classical mathematical methods in evaluating and defining global quality. According to the analytical results obtained, the desirability function method gives a more accurate prediction than the RSM one. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) is an important fruit of the Middle East and North Africa with a high content of phenolic compounds. This study applied ultrasonic-assisted and conventional methods to extract phenolic compounds from date flesh and seed. The efficacy of the extraction methods is compared in terms of quantity, content, and antioxidant capacity of phenolic compounds. The highest total phenolic content (TPC) was found in ultrasonic-assisted date seed samples extracted by ethanol (18.53 mg GAE/g). In contrast, the TPC content of conventionally extracted seed samples ranged from 1.30 to 14.46 mg GAE/g. The TPC and antioxidant capacity values of phenolic compounds extracted from date flesh samples were lower than those extracted from seed samples. Liquid chromatography electrospray ionization quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS) was used to characterize phenolic compounds. A total of 47 different phenolic compounds were identified, including 21 phenolic acids, 21 flavonoids, and 5 other polyphenols. High-performance liquid chromatography equipped with a photodiode array detector (HPLC-PDA) was used to quantify the phenolic compounds in different date samples. The highest content was found in ultrasonic-assisted date seed samples extracted in methanol solvent. The extract also contained epicatechin (36.12 μg/g), coumaric acid (27.05 μg/g), p-hydroxybenzoic acid (21.03 μg/g), syringic acid (19.85 μg/g), and epicatechin gallate (11.67 μg/g). The results showed that ultrasonic-assisted extraction could significantly increase the quantities of functional components of the extracts obtained from fresh date fruit samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L., Arecaceae) is a valuable fruit tree for many populations living in the Arabian Peninsula, North Africa, and the Middle East, and to play significant role in its economy. Asides from its well-known edible fruit, date palm tree also provides numerous by-products which have yet to be fully capitalized upon commercially. All parts of the date palm tree are of value to include: seeds (pits and oil), date pollen and the leaves. Date palm seed is a by-product of the fruit industry being discarded, and used as animal feed or for human consumption as non-caffeinated coffee. Date pollen is used traditionally for the treatment of infertility. This review aims to introduce a holistic overview on the phytochemical composition, nutritional, economical and potential health benefits of date by-products. Prioritization of date palm by-products for a desired added value or production of certain economically valued products is presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water injury and fungus infection are the main causes of large economic deterioration and losses in the quality of date fruits during harvesting period. The nonwoven bagging product was used for the first time on date palm and has been shown to efficiently protect date fruit from heavy rain and sunburn that reduces the rate of transpiration and increases fungus spoilage. The aim of this study is to evaluate the potential applicability of COMSOL code in simulating the heat transfer behavior through nonwoven date cover. The study also intended to use finite element method and adaptive mesh refinement technique to increase the accuracy of the solution and create model for efficient simulation of heat exchange in nonwoven bag. The proposed model was validated by the uniformity between simulating and experimental results. A detailed numerical study was conducted to find the influence of air permeability on heat transfer through nonwoven textiles. Results demonstrated that the reduction of nonwoven permeability is beneficial to minimize the heat taken away by forced convection by decreasing the inner air transportation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Date palm fruit is consumed as a highly nutritious food item particularly in the Middle East. This work was designed to investigate the occurrence of filamentous moulds, their toxins in date palm fruit samples, and explore the biocontrol potential of Bacillus cereus 342-2 against few date palms associated fungal species. In total, 36 date palm fruit samples from different sources and varieties were collected from the markets in Qatar. Aspergillus and Penicillium spp. were found to contaminate most of the samples, except Akhlas samples, which were free of any fungal contamination. In total, ochratoxin A (OTA) was found in 6 (16.67%) date samples, all within the permissible limit, except one (2.7%), where the level was above the maximum permissible concentrations of 2 µg/kg. The volatile organic compounds (VOCs) of B. cereus were very effective against the growth of A. niger and A. carbonarius with an inhibition rate of 100%. Whereas their effects against A. flavus was weak as mycelia grew; however, no sporulation occurred until day 7 of co-incubation. Gas chromatography mass spectrophotometry analysis of B. cereus volatiles showed aldehyde as a major component with a peak area of 10.6%, and Undecane with a peak area of 2.02%. The inhibitory effect of VOCs was either from aldehyde alone, or a synergetic effect of the two molecules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to develop a convenient, fast, effective and safe analytical method (QuEChERS) to determine 198 pesticide residues in multi-source date palm fruits using gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS). The calibration curves for most pesticides were linear in the range of 15–150 µg/kg, with r2 values higher than 0.9934 and the relative standard deviation for all pesticides was ≤20%. The mean recovery rate of pesticides was 70–120% and limits of detection (LODs) and limits of quantification (LOQs) were in the range of 5–14 µg/kg and 14–40 µg/kg, respectively. The validated procedure was used to monitor pesticide residues in 30 fresh date samples. It could be concluded that the modified QuEChERS extraction method was efficient in analysing pesticide residues in dates palm and none of the samples contained residues above the MRLs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The need of certified reference materials (CRMs) is consistently growing due to various aspects in the environment and communities. A research project on the production of seven environmental CRMs with international collaboration has been proposed as a pilot study. The CRMs are intended to be applied for quality assurance of toxicological, environmental, and food analyses of matrices of soil, sediment, dust, leaves, date fruit, and edible fish muscle for some elements at macro-, micro-, and trace-levels. This article demonstrates stability tests, as an essential parameter for CRMs, of element content in CRMs using ICP OES and ICP-SFMS. Useful and simple approaches were proposed for stability assessment. Cluster analysis of stability revealed that Cu, Fe, Mn, and Al in CRMs of soil matrices were the most similar elements in term of stability; and likewise for Cu, Fe, and Mn in CRMs of biological matrices. An overall stability of all elements in each CRM was also assessed by paired samples t-test at confidence interval of 95%. The p values of all CRMs are all >.05 indicating no significant variation on elements contents before and after underwent storage, besides limited transport conditions. Despite this study presents a simple way for assessment of stability of elements concentrations in CRMs, further stability studies are required concerning several intervals to study the effect of conditions on stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focuses on the chemical and thermo-physical characterization of date palm fiber, which can be used in the reinforcement of green composites. Alkaline solutions with different concentrations of NaOH (0.5, 1, 2 and 3%) and various immersion times (0.5, 1, 2, 4, 6 and 8h) at room temperature were used to treat fibers obtained from date palm fruit branches. In total, 750 samples were tested, and the results obtained show that the chemical treatment of the fibers can lead to an increase, up to 3 times, of their mechanical properties (strength and Young's modulus) in quasi-static tensile tests. Due to the dispersion in the experimental data, a statistical approach is required to evaluate the mechanical properties. To better understand the phenomena related to the physico-chemical properties of these fibers, several characterization techniques have been used, namely Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and X-ray diffraction. The data have been compared with results reported in the literature for other lignocellulosic fibers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fluopyram, flupyradifurone, and indaziflam are novel systemic pesticides developed by Bayer. Based on available data, these pesticides appears to have a favorable safety profile in the case of pesticide residue problems. Herein, we report an effective analytical method for the determination of novel pesticides were developed using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry coupled with a quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe procedure. These target compounds were extracted with acetonitrile and cleaned up with PSA, and were separated successfully between 10.2 and 18.3 min using a C18 chromatographic column connected to an electrospray ionization source. All the matrix-matched samples at three fortified levels (0.01, 0.1, and 0.5 mg kg−1) provided satisfactory recoveries in the range of 80.6–93.5% with relative standard deviations below 10.8%. The limits of quantitation were 0.0055 mg kg−1 with a limit of detection of 0.0015 mg kg−1 for fluopyram in pistachio matrix, 0.0062 mg kg−1 with a limit of detection of 0.0019 mg kg−1 for flupyradifurone in date fruits and 0.0083 mg kg−1 with a limit of detection of 0.0025 mg kg−1 for indaziflam in soil complex matrix. The limit of quantification of studied pesticides was far below the maximum residue limit in the national MRLs so the proposed method is of great significance for establishing maximum residue limits in Iran. Date fruit real samples had not any flupyradifurone residue, and some pistachio and soil samples had trace fluopyram and indaziflam residues but there were below LOQs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Taking advantages of non-destructive techniques, between-bottles homogeneity tests were carried out in term of elemental composition of seven certified reference materials (CRMs) candidates using particle-induced X-ray emission technique (PIXE). A combination of PIXE and RBS techniques (Rutherford backscattering spectrometry) was also used for CRMs candidates having biological matrices. The CRMs candidates have the matrices of soil, sediment, dust, fish muscle, leaves and fruit, which will be certified for some major, minor and trace elements. One batch was produced for each CRM candidate, which included 80 bottles. Between-bottles homogeneity tests were performed for each CRM candidate using seven representative bottles. The repeatability of measurements by PIXE and RBS was examined. The relative standard deviations (RSD) and relative average deviation (RAD) of the elements contents were considered for variability assessment for both repeatability and between-bottles homogeneity. Al, Si and Fe showed good repeatability with RSD and RAD of <4%, while Mg, S, Cl, K, Ca, Mn and Sr showed RSD and RAD in the range of 4–10%. A content of one element in the examined CRMs candidates, with the exception of the date fruit, showed RSD and RAD of <5% indicating good between-bottles homogeneity. For date fruit, the relative error of all elements was <10%, with the exception of Si and Zn, while RAD of S, Cl and K were <10%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Egypt is considered one of the main producers of date fruits in the world. Tamr dry date is widely cultivated in Upper Egypt, however, investigating the chemical components and biological activities of such common variety has not been performed yet. In this study, the chemical components of the Tamr variety and its biological activities were investigated. Results showed that the percentages of sugar, dietary fibers, metal, protein were 61.0%, 13.7%, 2.1, and 2.6%, respectively. Total phenolic and flavonoids were 17.6 and 2.3 mg/100 g, respectively. 17 amino acids, 8 metals, 15 fatty acids, 30 terpenes, vitamins (A, B1, B2, B3), and 5 flavonoids were identified. The presence of phenolics and flavonoids in ethyl acetate extract resulted in high biological activity than chloroform and methanolic extracts. The biological activity of chloroform extract could be ascribed to the presence of polyunsaturated fatty acids and terpenes. These results are in good agreement with the chemical-biological relationships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Date fruit (Phoenix dactylifera) have long history in food application due to the nutritional value, pleasant flavour and biological activity. This study aimed at investigating the antimicrobial activity of date fruits fermented with Lactobacillus plantarum ATCC8014. The fermented date fruit was added as ingredient for confectionary making and evaluated for it is effects on the physiochemical properties and shelf life of toffee-like South Asian product (Dodol). The results showed broad range antifungal activity of fermented date fruit towards Aspergillus niger (90.85%), Aspergillus flavus (92.86%) Escherichia coli (13 mm) and Staphylococcus aureus (15 mm). The identified bioactive metabolites included propylene glycol (0.028 mmol mL−1), lactic acid (0.763 mmol mL−1), acetic acid (0.292 mmol mL−1), acetoin (0.046 mmol mL−1) and gamma-Aminobutyric acid (0.041 mmol mL−1). Fermented date fruit (125 g/kg) significantly (p < 0.05) extended the shelf life of Dodol for 19 days at 25 ± 2 °C in comparison to the control that showed mould growth after 12 days. The microbial growth was significantly reduced in the modified Dodol. A significant influence was observed in the physiochemical properties for modified Dodol such as increasing moisture and water activity and reducing the product firmness. No significant differences (p ≥ 0.05) were observed for the consumer acceptability between traditional and modified Dodol. The results indicated that the high antifungal activity is due to the presence of several bioactive metabolites. Moreover, the findings indicated the promising applications of fermented date fruit as functional ingredient to improve quality and the shelf life stability for confectionaries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fresh strawberry is in high demand because of the fruit's unique flavor, taste, and high nutritional value. Berry quality is vital for fresh markets. Day-neutral strawberry varieties such as Albion and San Andreas have proven to produce a higher yield and better quality fruit than some short-day varieties. High tunnels (HT) and low tunnels (LT) are considered as good micro-environmental management options for the season extension of strawberries. However, the effects of LT inside HT on berry quality of day-neutral strawberries have not been reported. This 2-year study aimed to determine if LT and planting dates would affect the fruit quality of day-neutral strawberries in organically managed HT. The weight, size, color, texture, total soluble solids (TSS), and total titratable acidity (TTA) of berries were quantified. Planting dates and LT did not affect fruit quality variables except that fruit weight was reduced in LT in March and April. 'Albion' had larger, firmer fruit, and had higher TSS and TAA values than 'San Andreas,' except in samples collected in February. 'San Andreas' had more reddish and brighter fruit than 'Albion.' Although 'Albion' may produce better quality fruit than 'San Andreas,' both varieties would produce quality fruit for fresh markets in early spring. Including LT in HT did not benefit the fruit quality of organic day-neutral strawberries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Date fruit contains a variety of polyphenols such as phenolic acids, flavonoid glycosides, and certain hydroxycinnamates for mediating the biological effects. It is important to analyze the degradation of chlorophylls, carotenes, and other pigments in different stages of date fruit ripening by studying the association of date fruit ripening with these pigments. The study has aimed to examine the degradation of pigments during the ripening stages of two selected date fruits. Ten different samples were gathered of Hilwa and Sullaj dates where each sample represented different ripening stages. The samples were collected during July and August, also known as the ripening months. The outcome of the study exhibited degradation of chlorophyll throughout its maturation stages, whereas the carotene degradation was comparatively low. It also demonstrated the degradation of anthocyanins in both Hilwa and Sullaj dates. The study results also implied that the absorption of ultraviolet rays appears to be the same in the rapid degradation of pigments among date fruits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fruits of Msasa and Jaffa orange varieties were harvested and subjected to post-harvest treatments namely; dipping in hexanal, dipping in calcium chloride and compared with untreated control; and they were stored at ambient (28 ± 2°C) and reduced temperatures (18 ± 2°C) conditions. Data were collected on the 0, 4th, 8th, and 12th days from the date of fruit harvest. Chemical analyses were conducted to determine vitamin C content, total sugars, reducing sugars and total flavonoids. Post-harvest treatments had a significant effect on vitamin C and total flavonoids of Jaffa orange fruit. Hexanal treated fruit had higher values of total flavonoids, vitamin C, and total sugars compared to calcium chloride treated and control fruit. The storage durations showed significant effects on the vitamin C content of Jaffa, total flavonoids, the total and reducing sugars of both fruit varieties. Vitamin C and total flavonoids decreased with increasing storage duration of fruit. The significant interactions of factors were observed on total sugar which was increasing with increasing storage duration, but higher in hexanal treated and ambient stored fruit. Based on consumer acceptance test, the hexanal treated fruits were the most liked followed by calcium chloride treated and untreated fruits based on the appearance, taste, texture and overall acceptability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Saw-toothed grain beetle, Oryzaephilus surinamensis L. is a stored product pest that 7 imposes significant damages on the dried and semi-dried date fruits. The current study aimed to the 8 investigate the effects of diets on the biological parameters of the adults and the larvae of O. surinamensis. Two groups of individuals were fed to the three diets containing Sayer, Zahedi and 10 Deiri date cultivars, and monitored at temperature 27 ± 5 °C with relative humidity 60 ± 5% in the 11 growth chamber. The daily mortality of O. surinamensis was recorded in each cultivar separately to 12 analyse survival and hazard function determination through Gompertz, exponential, Weibull, and 13 logistic models. The results showed that survival and hazard functions of the larvae and the adults 14 had the most appropriate fit with Weibull and exponential models for all date cultivars. In the first 15 three to four days of experiment, the risk rate was low in all the three cultivars. The effect of nutrition 16 on the larvae and the adults showed similar trends but with different coefficients on the three dates cultivars. During the 12-day period, survival decreased gradually and the hazard rate increased as well. The slope of life expectancy changes and risk rates for the larval stages were steeper than adults 19 on all cultivars. The highest and the least slope of the speed of changes were observed in the larvae 20 and the adults fed on Deiri and Zahedi cultivars, respectively. There were significant differences 21 between the mean growth rate, fertility index and vital index as the highest values were recorded in 22 Deiri cultivar. These findings confirmed that selection of the date cultivars for feeding by adults is in 23 a way to ensure higher larval survival rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study addresses the development of unpollinated and pollinated flowers of date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.). cv. Deglet Noor in three successive seasons (2015–2017), focusing on the physico-chemical characterization and functional properties of fruits at Kimri stage. Results showed for the first time that dropped fruits at Kimri stage have a clear beneficial action on human health compared even with Tamar stage, given its higher total polyphenols and antioxidant activity, 3 and 34 times superior to Tamar stage, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Date fruits have ample amount of beneficial minerals but owing to diverse causes may contract with heavy metals and contaminants during field, processing, or transportation posing health challenges to consumers. Hence, current research explored the toxic heavy metals (Al, As, Cr, Pb, Cd, and Sb) levels in seven date varieties (Sakay Mabroum, Sakay Normal, Rashadya Al-qaseem, Barny Al-Madina, Eklas Al-Hassa, Safawy Al-Madina, Kadary) collected from different locations of Saudi Arabia by applying inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy. Mean values of heavy metals were calculated and expressed. Most of the heavy metals with the exception of As, Pb, and Cd are within safe limit with respect to maximum allowable levels (MAL) in some date cultivars. Estimated daily intake (EDI) of heavy metals through dates consumption (100 gram/person/day) for As and Pb exceeded the Provisional maximum tolerable daily intake from some locations. Although Cd content was exceeding MAL; however, its EDI is well within safe limits of Provisional maximum tolerable daily intake. From EDI data, hazard risk index was also calculated, which predicted that both As and Pb can pose potential health hazards to dates consumers in Saudi Arabia. However, Pb contributed greater health risks due to date fruit consumption as compared to Arsenic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several studies have demonstrated strong antioxidant activity of date fruits. Nevertheless, limited data is available for the bioactive compounds responsible for the activity. In this study, the antioxidant activity of five different date varieties (Ajwa, Anbara, Piyarom, Rabbi and Deglet Nour) extracted using 80% ethanol was determined using free radical scavenging (DPPH), ferric reducing power (FRAP) and antioxidant capacity (ABTS) assays. The 1H- NMR was employed to profile the bioactive metabolites present in the dates. The obtained results demonstrated that the Piyarom extract had the highest total phenolic content (355 mg GAE/100g DW), total flavonoid content (57.07 mg/100g DW) and exhibited good antioxidant activity with IC50 of 16.2 µg/mL, 26.38 mmol Fe (II)/g and 11.3 µg/mL for DPPH scavenging activity, FRAP antioxidant power and ABTS antioxidant capacity, respectively. The metabolites responsible for the variation between different date's varieties were successfully identified using 1H-NMR–based metabolomics. The principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least squares (PLS) analysis depicted clear and distinct separations into three clusters representing the five date varieties. The metabolites responsible for the separation were identified as sucrose, betaine, fructose, ascorbic acid, glycine, and arginine. Correlation study from PLS biplot revealed that glucose, ascorbic acid, epicatechin, gallic acid, and citric acid are responsible for the antioxidant activity measured. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dates are naturally rich in antioxidants and other bioactive molecules. To enhance the shelf life and market value of these bioactive molecules, free flow spray-dried date powder was produced in a pilot scale spray drier. To better understand the rheological properties of the spray-dried date powder produced by different carrier materials (maltodextrin (MD) and gum Arabic (GA)), different drying temperatures (150 and 170°C) and different flow rates of the atomizer (25 and 40 mL/min), a microstructural characterization of the scanning electron microscopy images of the date powder was performed using the graphical user interface design environment and image analysis toolbox in MATLAB. Also, the fundamental rheological characteristics of deformation and flow of particulate solids (i.e., packing, permeability, and strength) were obtained using an advanced rheometer and helium pycnometer. The microstructural and rheological properties of the date powders were significantly affected by the processing conditions used in this study. The date powder produced with MD had smooth, regular-shaped spherical particles along with good agglomeration and packing characteristics. Date powder with GA had irregular-shaped relatively smaller particles with dented surfaces with poor agglomeration and packing properties. Moreover, the rheological quality of the date powders was inversely proportional to the temperature and flow rate. The Guggenheim-Anderson-de Boer model for sorption isotherms was a suitable fit for the date powder. The monolayer moisture content for gum Arabic was twice that of the maltodextrin carrier material, whereas the monolayer heat of sorption was higher for maltodextrins. Using maltodextrin as the carrier material and drying at 150°C with a flow rate of 25 mL/min produced a free flowing less caking product as depicted by the sorption isotherms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the radioprotective efficacy of date (Phoenix dactylifera) pits extract (DPE) against γ-irradiation-induced liver damage in the male albino rats. For this study, 30-day survival, dose reduction factor (DRF), antioxidant status and some biochemical changes in the serum and hepatic tissue were evaluated. Materials and methods: To calculate 30-day survival, median lethal dose of 30 days (LD50/30) and DRF, DPE was orally administered to rats for 21 days before irradiation with different doses (5, 6, 8, 10 and 12 Gy) of γ-rays and the rats were observed for 30 days post-irradiation. To evaluate the radioprotective efficacy of DPE against γ-irradiation induced-liver tissue damage, animals were divided into four groups (eight animals in each group). (i) Control: rats not subjected to any treatment; (ii) DPE: DPE was orally administrated (1000 mg/kg body weight) for 21 days; (iii) RAD: rats’ whole body exposed to 5 Gy of γ-rays; (iv) DPE + RAD: rats received DPE treatment for 21 days before γ-irradiation. Animals were sacrificed on the seventh day postexposure to radiation. Results: The results showed that pretreatment prior to irradiation with DPE resulted in a significantly higher 30-day survival rate of rats after exposure to different doses of γ-irradiation. Furthermore, DPE treatment resulted in a significant improvement in the hepatic redox state, manifested by a marked increase of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities and glutathione content associated with a significant decrease of malondialdehyde (MDA) level. In addition, DPE exhibited hepatoprotective effect evidenced by a marked increase in serum levels of insulin, testosterone, high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-c) and hepatic glucose 6 phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PHD) activity associated with a significant decrease in serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), γ-glutamyl transferase (γ-GT), glucose, total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low density-lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) and hepatic glucose 6 phosphatase (G6Pase) activity, compared with irradiated group. Moreover, DPE showed positive modulation in the levels of hepatic metals [(iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu) and manganese (Mn)]. Conclusions: DPE treatment prior to gamma irradiation produced biochemical changes that could lead to a reduction in radiation-induced oxidative stress. Hence, we suggest that DPE may be useful as a new natural radioprotective agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The work reports on the study carried out to comparatively assess the corrosion inhibition efficacy of crude ethanolic extracts of date palm leaves and seeds on X60 carbon steel corrosion in 15% HCl solution at 25-60 °C. The corrosion inhibition studies was carried out using weight loss and electrochemical (potentiodynamic polarization and linear polarization resistance) techniques. Preliminary phytochemical screening was performed in order to determine the phytoconstituents present in the crude extracts. The influence of extractive solvents on the corrosion inhibition performance of the extracts was also investigated. It is found that the crude extracts of both date palm leaves and seeds contain saponins, flavonoids, cardiac glycosides and reducing sugars. Tannins is only present in the leaves and absent in the seeds while anthraquinones is absent in both extracts. The crude ethanolic extracts inhibited the corrosion of X60 steel in the aggressive 15% HCl solution with the leaves extract showing superior performance. Inhibition efficiency increased with increase in concentration of the extracts and temperature. Potentiodynamic polarization results reveal that the extracts function as mixed type inhibitors. Corrosion inhibition occurs by virtue of adsorption of components of the extract on the steel surface and was found to follow Langmuir adsorption isotherm model. On the influence of the extractive solvents on the corrosion inhibition performance, the order of inhibition efficiency at 60 °C follows the trend DPLAE (73.6%) > DPLEE (62.5%) > DPSAE (59.9%) > DPSEE (55.9%) with the optimum extract concentration (2000 ppm) studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: An optimized date seed oil (DSO) loaded niosomes was formulated. Significance: Maximize the extract anti-inflammatory efficacy and govern its release characteristics from nanoparticles for osteoarthritis prevention and treatment purposes. Methods: By using Box-Behnken Design, the effect of three formulation factors on the entrapment efficiency percentage (Y1), initial DSO release percentage after 2 h (Y2), and cumulative DSO release percentage of DSO after 12 h (Y3), were optimized and studied. The optimized DSO formulation was specified, elaborated, particle size and zeta potential assessed, examined morphologically under electron and light microscope, and in vivo evaluated via carrageenan-induced rat paw edema study. Results: 65.89%, 18.39%, and 58.27% were the measured responses of the optimized niosomes for Y1, Y2, and Y3, respectively. The vesicular structure of the optimized DSO loaded nano-vesicles with nano-size range and good stability features were confirmed. Furthermore, a distinguished anti-inflammatory activity in both prompt and sustained effectiveness were exhibited via the optimized DSO niosomes. Interestingly, the delayed efficacy outcomes of the extract loaded nanoparticles showed a similarity profile as well as the negative control group outcomes. Conclusions: To emphasize, DSO loading in niosomes revealed a significant enhancement toward inflammation alleviation, which offers a promising implement in osteoarthritis remediation and prohibition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Labour induction and augmentation with Prostaglandin and Oxytocin are well established as standard practice worldwide. They are safe when used judiciously, but may be associated with maternal and neonatal morbidities. Other safer alternatives have been studied including dates consumption during late pregnancy with various outcomes. The aim of this randomised controlled trial was to investigate the effect of date fruit consumption during late pregnancy on the onset of labour and need for induction or augmentation of labour. A total of 154 nulliparous women with an uncomplicated singleton pregnancy were randomly allocated to either dates-consumer (77) or control group (77). The women in the dates-consumer group had significantly less need for augmentation of labour and longer intervention to delivery interval. There was no significant difference in the onset of spontaneous labour. Dates consumption reduces the need for labour augmentation but does not expedite the onset of labour. Impact statement • Dates fruit consumption during late pregnancy has been shown to positively affect the outcome of labour and delivery. In this study, date consumption reduced the need for labour augmentation with oxytocin but did not expedite the onset of labour. Therefore, dates consumption in late pregnancy is a safe supplement to be considered as it reduced the need for labour intervention without any adverse effect on the mother and child. This further supports the finding of earlier studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Date fruits have protective effects against liver fibrosis; however their anti-apoptotic effects have not been investigated. Objective: To investigate the modulating effects of date fruits on pro- and anti-apoptotic markers, cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1) and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) in liver fibrosis.Materials and methods: Liver fibrosis was induced by injection of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) for eight weeks. Date flesh extract (DFE) and pits extract (DPE) were taken daily concomitant with CCl4. Hepatocyte apoptosis was determined by measuring the expression of Fas, caspase-3, Bax, Bcl2 and hemeoxygenase-1 (HO-1). Hepatic levels of HGF and CYP2E1 were determined. Results: Treatment with DFE and DPE significantly attenuated the elevated levels of Fas, caspase 3, Bax and CYP2E1 induced by CCl4. In addition, they alleviated the reduction in Bcl2, HGF and HO-1, the cytoprotective and anti-apoptotic factors in liver.ConclusionsDFE and DPE treatment can ameliorate liver fibrosis by inhibiting hepatocyte apoptosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carriers are added with fruit pulp in several drying methods. The flow behavior of the feedstock is an important property in determining equipment design and drying condition. In this study, the effect of carrier type, carrier percentage, and concentration of date pulp feedstock (DPF) on the rheological properties were investigated. The DPF was prepared with Fardh dates cultivar with maltodextrin (MD), gum arabic (GA), and sodium caseinate (SC) carriers at two levels (dates:carrier −70:30 and 60:40, dry weight basis) and three concentrations (20, 30, and 40%). The carriers were found to be effective in reduction of the shear stress for the shear rate range 1–100 s−1. At shear rate 1 s−1, GA-blended DPF and at shear rate 100 s−1, MD-blended DPF offered the lowest shear stresses. Viscosity was decreasing while increasing the shear rate from 1 to 100 s−1, and decreasing the concentration from 20 to 40%. MD- and GA carrier-blended DPFs had exhibited similar viscous behavior. Shear-thinning behavior with GA- and MD-blended DPFs and shear-thickening behavior with SC-blended DPF were observed. Yield stresses of Herschel–Bulkley, Casson and Bingham were increasing with increase in concentration. Temperature dependency of the viscosity was found higher in control than in the carrier-blended DPF. The activation energy was calculated using Arrhenius relationship between temperature and viscosity while heating as well as cooling. The activation energy was increasing while increasing the DPF concentration during heating and reciprocal results were found during cooling. No significant influence of carriers or carrier levels (p < 0.05) was found on activation energy during heating. But while cooling, the activation energy was found higher for the MD-blended DPF than other two DPFs. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The objective of this study was to investigate the capability of X-ray imaging in detecting internal infestations caused by the saw-toothed beetle (Oryzaephilus surinamensis L.) in stored dates. Un-infested and infested dates were x-rayed for different life stages (egg, larvae, pupae, and adult) ofO. surinamensis. An algorithm was developed to extract 44 features from the X-ray images. Linear discriminant analysis (LDA) was used to discriminate the un-infested and infested dates using extracted features. Overall accuracy of X-ray imaging system was 80% for un-infested and beetle-infested dates. X-ray imaging system yielded around 97% accuracy in detecting internal infestation of dates with an adult beetle while using a pairwise classification method. Further studies are required to investigate the effects of moisture content and hardness of dates in the discrimination between the un-infested and infested dates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ethanol and fructose are important materials for the fuel and food markets; high fructose syrup production processes are still costly. The effect of inoculum medium composition on the production of fructose and ethanol from dates by selective fermentation was investigated. The addition of minerals improved the fructose content in the produced syrup and ethanol productivity. The addition of malt extract to the medium increased fructose yield from 94% to 97%, but decreased ethanol yield from 78% to 69%. The presence of peptone increased ethanol productivity and fructose fraction in sugar, while iron increased fructose yield to 100% in syrups with 371 g initial sugar/L. Compared to the commonly marketed 55% fructose, selective fermentation of date extract produced sugar syrups with at least 82% fructose and significant amounts of ethanol. The excellent fit by the new expanded model prediction to the experimental data makes them valuable tools for further process development or industrial applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxidative stress may play a key role in Alzheimer's disease (AD) neuropathology. Changes in the oxidative stress, antioxidants, and membrane-bound enzymes were investigated in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus of AD transgenic mice model after long-term dietary supplementation of date palm fruits from Oman. The 4-month-old mice with double Swedish APP mutation (APPsw/Tg2576) were purchased from Taconic Farm, NY, USA; mice were fed two different doses of dates (such as 4 and 2%) or control diet for 15 months and then assessed for the influence of diet on oxidative stress. Significant increase in oxidative stress in terms of enhanced levels of lipid peroxidation (LPO) and protein carbonyls and parallel decrease in the activity of antioxidant enzymes were observed in control diet-treated Tg2576 AD mice. Dates (4 and 2%) treated APPsw/Tg2576 AD mice exhibited significantly attenuated oxidative damage, evidenced by decreased LPO and protein carbonyl levels and restoration in the activities of the antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione, and glutathione reductase). The activities of membrane-bound enzymes (Na+, K+-ATPase and acetyl cholinesterase) were altered in control diet-treated APPsw/Tg2576 AD mice brain regions. Meanwhile, both the percentages of date supplementation were able to restore the activity of enzymes to comparable values observed in controls. In summary, we have shown that chronic dietary supplementation of date palm fruits grown in Oman showed possible beneficial effects concomitant with oxidative stress reduction and increased antioxidant enzymes in AD transgenic mice model. These results warrant further exploration of how anti-reactive oxygen species properties of dates offer such beneficial effects on the AD-like brain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Date fruit is a good source of bioactive compounds and natural sugar. It has the potential to be utilized as a substitute for added sugar. Although several forms of dates—such as fresh dates, date paste, and date syrup—are available in the market and used for different applications, free-flow date powder would be highly beneficial in improving shelf-life, ease of handling, and blendability with various foods prepared domestically and in industry. The objective of this study was to produce date powder in a pilot-scale spray dryer and determine its physicochemical qualities. Date powder was produced at eight processing conditions (2 carrier agents (maltodextrin (MD) and gum arabic (GA) × 2 inlet air temperature (150°C and 170°C) × 2 feedstock flow rates (25 ml/min and 40 ml/min)). To the carrier agent was added at 0.4 kg per 1.0 kg of date fruits (dry weight basis), and the feedstock to the spray dryer was prepared at 20% concentration. Date powder was obtained in all eight treatments. Color (L*a*b* values), moisture content, bulk density, wettability, solubility index, hygroscopicity, microstructure analysis (using scanning electron microscope (SEM)), and total phenolic compounds were determined for the spray-dried date powder. The physicochemical characteristics of date powder varied significantly with respect to the processing conditions. Although physical properties of date powder were significantly affected by the carrier agent, there was no difference in total phenolic compounds between date powders produced with MD and GA. An SEM study revealed that date powder produced with MD had smooth, regular-shaped spherical particles but with severe agglomeration. Date powder with GA had relatively smaller particles of irregular sphere with dented surfaces. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This article argues that one of the keys to understanding the power of Kuwait's ruling Sabah family in the twentieth century lies in its economic strength. From the 1830s onwards, the Sabah family gradually purchased or took control of extensive date plantations in southern Iraq, and thus were able to build up an independent economic power base. The commerce in dates grew throughout the nineteenth century, and reached its peak at the start of the twentieth century. At the same time, the state formation following the First World War reduced the opportunities of the merchants, who were the elite in Kuwaiti society. As a result, while the economic domination of the Sabah family was entirely attributed by researchers to the oil wealth in the second half of the twentieth century, they, unlike the merchants, were relatively unaffected by the economic crisis of the 1920s and 1930s. Their wealth had depended on a basic staple commodity, while the merchants' source of income had been mainly pearling, a luxury during times of economic hardship. The profitability of dates, the demand for which was constantly on the increase, was the source of wealth that the Sabah family and the ruler fought fiercely to sustain up to the 1950s, even when this ran counter to the interests of Kuwait. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Methyl bromide (MB) was used for years to treat infested stored date fruits; however, MB is due to be phased out by 2015. In this study ozone is used for disinfestations of Kabkab date against Indian meal moth in three life stage. They were exposed to four ozone concentrations (300 ± 10, 1050 ± 40, 2000 ± 40, and 4000 ± 50 ppm) during four periods (2, 4, 6, and 8 h). The findings show 2000 ppm of ozone concentration within 8 h resulted in complete mortality of larvae and adult insects and over 90% mortality of eggs. The proposed ozone treatment is a promising approach replacing application of MB for disinfestations of examined date fruits, as no remarkable changes were observed on pH of the date fruits and its chemical compositions (total phenolic content, anti-oxidant activity and free radicals). [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This study introduces a method to simultaneously maintain disinfection and accelerated ripening of ‘Mazafati’ date fruit. The method includes immersing of the samples in water, acetic acid, and sodium chloride solutions following incubation. The results revealed that incubation is the main factor responsible for accelerated ripening of date fruit. Dry weight and total soluble solids of samples increased during ripening, whereas total water insoluble solids, textural firmness, and L*a*b* parameters decreased. Overall, the treatments with 0.5% acetic acid solution with incubation at 39°C for 60 and 80 h can be regarded as a suitable method for accelerated ripening of ‘Mazafati’ date fruit. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Effective risk management is an important aspect of farming. Risk management involves choosing among alternatives that reduce the financial effects of the uncertainties of weather, yields, prices, government policies, and other factors that can cause wide swings in farm income. To deal with price uncertainty, this paper focuses on futures markets and calculates hedge ratio for dates. A bivariate BEKK GARCH model is used to determine time-varying hedge ratios. The results show that the average BEKK BGARCH hedge ratio for dates is .7. Also in this paper, the hedge ratio, which takes into consideration the producers' risk-averse parameter, is estimated [Extended mean Gini hedge ratio (EMGHR)]. Results of EMGHR recommended that risk-averse producers, who have risky parameter equal to 50, could reduce their price risk to 60% by attending futures markets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Date palm is one of the most important products in Iran. Kerman province is one of the most important producers of this crop. Major areas of date palm cultivation in the province involve Bam, Jiroft and Shahdad. Date palm acreage of Shahdad is over 3500 hectares. Date palm varieties in Shahdad are Ghasb, Shamsaee and Bazmani. Ghasb date palm is most important in Shahdad that is classified as dry product. Date Palm trees have many pests such as the horned beetle dates, spider mite, leafhopper and moths; and according to the studies done in 2008–2009,Ephestia figulilellais the most important pest on fruit dates in Shadad, sometimes 90% of product is contaminated by this pest. This pest has four to five generations per year and overwintered as all of stages in storage and larvae in garden. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nigrospora sphaericawas isolated from date palm leaves which showed severe symptoms of leaf and stem spot. Pathogenicity tests revealed that several isolates of this fungus reproduced symptoms on the cultivar ‘Al-Sayer’. The susceptibility of five different cultivars of date palm showed that ‘Halawii’ and ‘Al-Sayer’ were the most susceptible to infection compared with other cultivars such as ‘Barhee’, ‘Zahdi’ and ‘Khadrawii’. Morphological and molecular characteristics confirmed the identification ofN. sphaerica. The phytotoxicity of the culture filtrates were investigated, and shown to induce severe symptoms on date palm leaves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rheological properties of two commercial date pastes were investigated in the temperature range of 20–70°C. From typical flow behavior curves, it was observed that date pastes exhibited pseudoplastic behavior. The shear stress-shear rate data were fitted using six common rheological models. The Casson model best described the experimental data at all temperatures. The Arrhenius model described successfully the temperature dependence of apparent viscosity of date pastes (R2 > 0.99) with an Ea value in the range of 25,392.6–25,485.7 kJ/kmol. The textural attributes measured were: hardness, springiness, gumminess, cohesiveness, chewiness, and adhesiveness for the texture profile analysis test, and firmness, adhesive force, mean load, and total positive area for the Ottawa test. There was a significant difference in textural attributes between two varieties of date paste studied. Texture profile analysis results showed that all parameters obtained for black date pastes were higher than golden date pastes except for springiness and cohesiveness. However, the Ottawa results showed that golden date pastes were firmer and less adhesive than black date pastes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dates by-products (discarded dates) from the sucrose-rich variety of 'Deglet Nour' were used as starting biomass to produce high-fructose syrup (HFS) based on an immobilized invertase process. A novel extracellular thermostable invertase obtained from Aspergillus awamori cultivated in submerged medium was induced with sucrose at 1% and used for this purpose. A zymogram of the crude extract showed the presence of a unique enzyme form that was optimally produced on the 5th day. This enzyme preparation was biochemically characterized and immobilized on acetic acid-solubilized chitosan by covalent binding using glutaraldehyde (Yi == 88%, Ya == 54% and 15.53 U/g). When deployed in a packed bed reactor (PBR), HFS was efficiently and continuously produced from sucrose derived from aqueous date extracts. Feeding with an extract initially containing 139.2 g/L total sugar with 78.6 g/L sucrose at a flow rate of 17 ml/h, 50°C and pH 6 resulted in a conversion factor of 0.95 and a final fructose content in the syrup of 69 g/L. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to analyze and compare the chemical and physical properties of 18 varieties of the date fruits from date palm ( Phoenix dactylifera), which are regarded as popular fruit commodities among the populace of the Middle Eastern peninsula. Dietary fiber, proximate analysis, micronutrients (micro-elements and macro-elements) and physical properties (weight, length, and density) of the selected 18 leading varieties of dates cultivated in the United Arab Emirates--namely Khalas, Barhe, Lulu, Shikat alkahlas, Sokkery, Bomaan, Sagay, Shishi, Maghool, Sultana, Fard, Maktoomi, Naptit saif, Jabri, Khodary, Dabbas, Raziz and Shabebe--were determined and compared. Significant differences ( P  <  0.05) in the measured parameters were observed among the different varieties. However, the results depict that date fruits, depending on the variety, contain significant but quite variable amounts of macro-elements and micro-elements. The macro-elements measured are calcium, phosphorous, sodium, potassium and magnesium, while the essential micro-elements and the possibly essential micro-elements are iron, zinc, copper, manganese, cobalt and molybdenum, and aluminum, arsenic, barium, cadmium, chromium, nickel, lead, strontium and vanadium, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Tunisia, some 15,000 tons of fructose could be produced annually from second quality dates presently being left to rot. Extraction is the first step in producing sugar from these dates, and sugar diffusivity from the date paste governs the process. The objective of this project was therefore to measure in the laboratory, the sugar diffusivity of three date varieties (Manakher, Lemsi, and Alligue) under three different temperatures (50, 65 and 80°C), and from this data, develop an artificial neural network (ANN) model to predict sugar extraction. For each date variety, the laboratory procedure consisted of soaking a layer of date paste in water at one of the three temperatures and observing water sugar concentration at 20 mm from the date layer, every 15 min over a period of 240 min. This experimental data was then used to develop the ANN model, where several configurations were evaluated. Date sugar concentration with time was found to be significantly influenced by temperature and variety. The Lemsi variety allowed for the highest sugar extraction of 75% at 80°C. The optimal ANN model was found to be a network with two hidden layers and seven neurones in both the upper and lower levels of each hidden layers. This optimal model was capable of predicting sugar diffusivity from the different date varieties with a mean square error of 0.0037 and an 8.0% Error. The results show very good agreement between the predicted and the desired values of sugar diffusivity (R2 = 0.98). The coefficient of determination was also very good (R2 > 0.95), due to a small prediction error. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The postharvest hydrothermal treatment of date palm fruit was studied in order to enhance the quality and consumer acceptance of 'Deglet Nour' hard dates, because these dates are unfit for direct consumption. Hot water hydration was performed by soaking at 25, 45, and 65°C and convective hot air drying at 35, 45, 60, 75, and 85°C at various levels of air humidity. Numerous quality parameters—i.e., texture, color, moisture and sugar contents—were investigated. Artificial maturation due to the softening of texture and the equilibration of sugars was achieved using the hydration pretreatment. A 6-h soaking at 45°C could be the best option to obtain a product of highest quality, but the moisture content would exceed that required for safe storage. Drying and quality tests led to the selection of a pretreatment step of soaking at 30°C for 8 h, followed by drying at an intermediate temperature (60°C) as the optimum condition to obtain a final product of high quality with the standard moisture content of 0.35 kg/kg d.b. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A critical step to escape from the carcinogenic potential of UV radiation is mediated by the protein p53. P53 activates growth arrest, allowing for DNA repair, which removes damaged cells. The concept of photoprotection involves blocking apoptosis and the prevention of oxidative damage to cellular DNA. Date seed oil (DSO) extract has been reported to be beneficial in the reduction of chemically induced oxidative stress in normal human skin. In this study, we investigated the DNA-protective qualities of DSO as measured by p53 expression in human skin biopsies, one day after exposure to ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation. P53 expression was analyzed using immunohistochemistry. The results showed an increase in p53 expression in the basal cell compartment of UVB-exposed skin as compared to the non-UVB-exposed skin. However, DSO has significant photoprotective effects by inhibition of damage caused by UVB irradiation: a significantly lower fraction of cells was p53 positive as compared to the non-DSO-treated skin. We conclude that p53 expression is a sensitive parameter for the detection of UVB-induced damage in the skin and suggest that DSO could provide an efficient complement to photoprotective measures and may contribute to reduce the DNA damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to determine and compare the phenolic acid composition, flavonoid content and antioxidant activity of fruits from common date cultivars. The simple phenolic content ranged from 15.73 (Mermella variety) to 54.66 mg/100 g fresh weight (Korkobbi variety). Korkobbi had also the highest content of total flavonoids (54.46 quercetin equivalents/100 g fresh weight). The percentage of inhibition can reach 83% in the lipoperoxyl radical of the Korkobbi variety, while it was about 95% with the Rotbi variety for OH·. The Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity value provided a ranking in decreasing order at 6 min: Korkobbi > Bouhattam > Baht = Smiti > Bekreri = Garn ghzal > Mermilla = Kenta > Nefzaoui = Rotbi. It seems that the highest level of flavonoids in the Korkobbi variety was principally responsible for the highest antiradical efficiency of this cultivar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The administration of antioxidants has been shown to enhance repair and healing processes in cutaneous tissue. Date seed oil (DSO) extract, which might be a potential source of natural antioxidants such as phenols and tocopherols, has been reported to be beneficial in the reduction of chemically induced oxidative stress in normal human skin. In this study, we investigated the protective effects of DSO against hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced oxidative stress in terms of lipid peroxidation, depletion of such endogenous antioxidant defense enzymes as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) using normal human epidermal melanocytes (NHEM). The results showed that DSO, endowed with a radical scavenging ability, decreased oxidative injury by inhibition of damage caused by H2O2. Treatment of NHEM with DSO inhibited H2O2-induced lipid peroxidation. In addition, the extract inhibited H2O2-induced depletion of antioxidant defense components, such as SOD, CAT, and GPx. Our findings demonstrate that DSO is an efficient extract able to prevent melanocytes oxidative damage induced by H2O2 exposure. Thus it may be a potential promising candidate, as a chemopreventive agent, in the development of melanocyte-related pathologies like vitiligo and melanoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]