Search Results (133)

Next-generation sequencing technology was employed to read and assemble the complete plastid genome of the ‘Mejhoul’ date palm cultivar (Phoenix dactylifera L.). The genome consisted of 158,436 base pairs (bp) with a GC content of 37.24%, and it included 95 protein-coding genes, 44 tRNA genes, and eight rRNA genes. The plastome of five ‘Mejhoul’ genotypes from Jordan was compared with three genotypes from the USA, Morocco, and the UAE. It revealed 91 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and 23 insertions–deletions (InDels); the majority of them (62%) were located in intergenic regions, while the remaining variants were located in intragenic regions, including tRNA and rRNA genes. When the plastomes of all eight ‘Mejhoul’ genotypes were aligned, along with major cultivars ‘Barhee’ and ‘Khalas’, 24 SNPs and 23 InDels could be found. This would enable the development of a cultivar-specific fingerprint test for authentication. The phylogenetic tree was constructed using seventeen date palm cultivars. The phylogenetic analysis places ‘Mejhoul’ as a lineage derived within Clade I rather than as an early-diverging cultivar, suggesting it shares a more recent common ancestor with ‘Deglet Noor’ and ‘Barhee’. Full article

Asynchronous flowering between male and female date palms (Phoenix dactylifera L.) makes pollen storage a practical necessity for growers, especially for cultivars like ‘Mejhoul’, which require artificial pollination. This study examined the stainability of pollen as an indicator of cytoplasmic integrity, from four male date plant pollen donor genotypes (‘Mejhoul’, ‘Deglet Nour’, ‘Khadrawy’, and ‘Zahidi’) stored at 4 °C for different durations (fresh, one-year, and two-year storage) and their effects on fruit set and physical fruit characteristics of the Mejhoul cultivar in Mexico. Pollen stainability was assessed in vitro using 1% acetocarmine. Fruit and seed set percentages were evaluated as indicators of the practical effectiveness of stored pollen under field conditions, but not as direct measures of viability. Results showed that fresh pollen exhibited the highest stainability (91.2–95.6%), followed by one-year-stored pollen (59.4–68.3%), and two-year-stored pollen (38.8–45.4%). Fruit set percentages were highest with fresh pollen (63.8–81.7%), decreasing with storage duration. ‘Deglet Nour’ pollen consistently showed superior compatibility with ‘Mejhoul’ females. Physical fruit characteristics (weight, length, diameter) and seed traits were minimally affected by reduced pollen stainability, indicating that there were enough viable grains for effective pollination. The study also observed Metaxenia and Xenia effects, where pollen genotypes influenced fruit and seed size. Overall, these findings suggest that pollen stored at 4 °C for short and medium terms can be used in Mejhoul production, but longer storage significantly reduces efficacy, recommending sub-zero temperatures for extended preservation. Full article

Valorization of Phoenix dactylifera L. (date) seeds, an abundant agro-industrial byproduct, offer a sustainable approach to developing multifunctional ingredients for dermocosmetic photoprotection. Rich in polyphenols, flavonoids, and lipophilic antioxidants, date seed extracts and oils demonstrate promising UV-absorbing, anti-inflammatory, and free-radical-scavenging properties. Recent in vitro, ex vivo, and preclinical studies underscore their potential as bioactive agents in sunscreen formulations, supporting both skin barrier integrity and oxidative stress mitigation, although clinical validation is still required. This review consolidates current knowledge on the phytochemical profile and biological efficacy of date seed derivatives, with emphasis on their integration into advanced delivery systems such as nanocarriers, Pickering emulsions, and cyclodextrin complexes to enhance photostability, skin permeability, and esthetic acceptability. Safety aspects, including allergenicity, phototoxicity, and regulatory gaps, are critically examined alongside environmental and ethical advantages, including biodegradability and vegan suitability. The findings advocate for the inclusion of Phoenix dactylifera L. seed actives in next-generation dermocosmetic sunscreens that align with circular bioeconomy principles, consumer demand for “reef-safe” products, and evolving international regulations. Further clinical validation is encouraged to fully translate these botanically derived agents into effective and ethically sound sun care innovations. Full article

This study presents the first molecular characterization of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) isolated from single-spore cultures in Morocco, specifically from the rhizosphere of date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) in the Figuig oasis. Nine indigenous AMF isolates were successfully established and identified through an integrative approach combining spore morphology with ribosomal DNA region sequencing (SSU–ITS–LSU). Morphological and phylogenetic analyses revealed that the isolates belonged mainly to the genera Rhizophagus and Glomus. These results provide new insights into AMF diversity in arid Moroccan ecosystems and establish a reference collection of indigenous isolates with potential applications. In particular, they open opportunities for developing bio-inoculants that can improve date palm growth, enhance resilience to environmental stresses, and contribute to sustainable agriculture and soil restoration in oasis systems. Full article

The date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.), which is the pivot of oasian agriculture, offers a range of agricultural by-products, which remain very poorly exploited and are still used in a traditional way in animal rations. Date waste or dry dates are the result of sorting after harvest, accounting for 25% of annual date production. This co-product of poor quality and low market value has been shown to be rich in various secondary metabolites endowed with antioxidant and anti-radical properties. In order to make the most of Algerian oasian flora, a potential source of bioactive natural molecules, a chemical and biological study of three parts of the fruit of the Phoenix dactylifera plant (‘N’ stone, ‘P’ pulp and ‘N + P’ whole dates) was carried out. The bioactivities of hydro-methanolic extracts were assessed by determining antioxidant activity. The date pulp ‘P’ showed better anti-free radical activity with the DPPH test (p < 0.01). The bioactive substances isolated in the stone fractions ‘N’ showed excellent antioxidant activity with the ABTS test (p < 0.05). Moreover, the raw extract of N showed excellent antioxidant activity superior to that of the standard BHT with the CUPRAC test (p < 0.001). The fruits of Phoenix dactylifera and mainly the stones ‘N’ have excellent antioxidant activity and abundant secondary metabolites, which could provide corroborating evidence in terms of the potential elimination of free radicals from the fruit. Full article

In this study, two known date fruit cultivars (‘Mejhoul’ and ‘Boufeggous’) were pre-treated using convective and infrared drying, and then subjected to cold storage at +4 °C using two levels of relative humidity (RH): 55% and 65%. The quality of the date fruit was assessed based on selected phenolic compounds, sugars, color, hardness, weight loss, and some image features at 0, 2, 4, 6, and 8 months. The results exhibited non-similar patterns in the changes of phenolic compounds according to cultivar and relative humidity level. The highly significant changes were observed for “Quercetin-Xyloside” that decreased drastically after two months of storage, especially for the ‘Mejhoul’ cultivar. Also, “Gallic acid” indicated a progressive and significant increase during storage. Other phenolic compounds, mainly “Quercetin-derivatives”, “Chlorogenic acid derivatives”, and “Ferulic acid”, showed fluctuating values among treatments and during the whole period of storage. For sugar compounds, it was noticed that glucose and fructose were affected by drying technique and relative humidity, especially for the ‘Boufeggous’ cultivar. Weight loss increased significantly for ‘Mejhoul’ cultivar stored at high relative humidity (65%), and ‘Boufeggous’ evolved in the opposite way for samples stored at lower RH (55%). For color, the browning index exhibited a significant and progressive increase among all treatments considered in this study; this pattern was more pronounced for date cultivars stored at high relative humidity (65%). The evaluation of hardness indicated a softening phenomenon during storage, especially for the ‘Mejhoul’ cultivar stored at 65% of RH. Moreover, the correlation of image features with weight loss and some color attributes indicated high correlation, and the estimation of the behavior of dates under storage could be predicted using accurate image features. Full article

Date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) is a vital crop cultivated primarily in developing regions, playing a strategic role in global food security through its significant contribution to nutrition, economy, and livelihoods. Global and regional production trends revealed increasing demand and expanded cultivation areas, underpinning the fruit’s importance in national food security policies and economic frameworks. The date fruit’s rich nutritional profile, encompassing carbohydrates, dietary fiber, minerals, and bioactive compounds, supports its status as a functional food with health benefits. Postharvest technologies and quality preservation strategies, including temperature-controlled storage, advanced drying, edible coatings, and emerging AI-driven monitoring systems, are critical to reducing losses and maintaining quality across diverse cultivars and maturity stages. Processing techniques such as drying, irradiation, and cold plasma distinctly influence sugar composition, texture, polyphenol retention, and sensory acceptance, with cultivar- and stage-specific responses guiding optimization efforts. The cold chain and innovative packaging solutions, including vacuum and modified atmosphere packaging, along with biopolymer-based edible coatings, enhance storage efficiency and microbial safety, though economic and practical constraints remain, especially for smallholders. Microbial contamination, a major challenge in date fruit storage and export, is addressed through integrated preservation approaches combining thermal, non-thermal, and biopreservative treatment. However, gaps in microbial safety data, mycotoxin evaluation, and regulatory harmonization hinder broader application. Date fruit derivatives such as flesh, syrup, seeds, press cake, pomace, and vinegar offer versatile functional roles across food systems. They improve nutritional value, sensory qualities, and shelf life in bakery, dairy, meat, and beverage products while supporting sustainable waste valorization. Emerging secondary derivatives like powders and extracts further expand the potential for clean-label, health-promoting applications. This comprehensive review underscores the need for multidisciplinary research and development to advance sustainable production, postharvest management, and value-added utilization of date palm fruits, fostering enhanced food security, economic benefits, and consumer health worldwide. Full article

Mabroom dates (Phoenix dactylifera L.) are recognized as one of the most important crops in Qatar. Fresh fruit dates are susceptible to mould and post-harvest spoilage, resulting in a significant financial loss. Octanoic fatty acid (OFA) has been shown to regulate the growth of mould-causing organisms such as fungi and bacteria. It is known to have antibacterial properties. The objective of the current study was to evaluate the in vitro effect of OFA on the post-harvest pathogens of Mabroom fruits. Fresh, apparently healthy, and fully ripe Mabroom dates were obtained from the National Agriculture and Food Corporation (NAFCO). The chosen fruits were packed in sterile, well-ventilated plastic boxes and transported to the lab under controlled conditions. The fruits were distributed into five groups (G1 to G5). The groups G1, G2, and G3 received 1%, 2%, and 3.5% OFA, respectively, while G4 was left untreated and G5 was washed only with tap water as a positive control treatment. Each group contained 200 g of fresh and healthy semi-soft dates. The samples were then dried and incubated in a humidity chamber at 25 °C ± 2 for seven days. The signs and symptoms of decay were monitored and recorded. The presence of pathogens was confirmed via phenotypic and microscopic-based methods. The results showed a significant difference (p ≤ 0.05) among the groups. OFA at 3.5% had the strongest inhibitory action against post-harvest pathogens, followed by OFA2%. However, there were no differences (p ≤ 0.05) between OFA1% and the control groups. Aspergillus spp., Penicillium spp., Rhizopus spp., and Botrytis spp. were most abundant in the control group, followed by OFA2% and OFA1%, respectively. In conclusion, octanoic fatty acid at 3.5% may improve the quality of date fruits through its high antimicrobial activity, reduce the effect of post-harvest decay, minimize the loss of date fruits during storage, and improve the sustainability of date fruits. Further experiments are necessary to confirm the effectiveness of OFA as a green solution for sustainable date fruit production. Full article

Dates (Phoenix dactylifera L.) are nutrient-rich fruits with health-promoting properties and broad applications in the food and beverage industries. This study analyzes the chemical properties and volatile profile of fermented date products—juice, alcoholic derivative, and vinegar—to develop a high-quality vinegar with distinct sensory traits. Using HS-SPME-GC-MS, about 50 volatile compounds were identified across six major chemical classes. Juice processing significantly increased volatile release, especially fusel alcohols and furanic aldehydes, due to thermal and mechanical disruption. Fermentation further modified the volatilome, with increased esters and acids in alcoholic and vinegar products. Vinegar was characterized by high levels of acetic acid, fatty acids, phenols, and acetoin (855 mg/L), indicating active microbial metabolism. Ethanol and acidity levels met international standards. Total phenolic content rose from juice (138 mg/L) to vinegar (181 mg/L), reflecting microbial enzymatic activity and acid-driven extraction. These results highlight the metabolic complexity, sensory richness, and functional potential of date-derived fermented products while promoting sustainable use of underutilized fruit resources. Full article

The date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) is a key crop in the arid regions of North Africa and the Middle East, with substantial socioeconomic value. Although multiple genome assemblies have been generated using next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies, they primarily focus on Middle Eastern cultivars, leaving North African varieties unrepresented. This study aims to address this gap by sequencing and assembling the first genome of a North African date palm using Illumina sequencing technology. We present a draft genome assembly of the elite Tunisian variety Deglet Nour. By comparing it with the Barhee BC4 reference genome, we identify key genetic variants, including single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and insertions/deletions (INDELs), potentially associated with ripening processes and fruit quality. This work expands the genomic resources for date palm research, particularly for North African cultivars, and provides new insights into the nucleotide-level variability of the genes linked to key agronomic traits. Full article

The aim of this work was to evaluate the impact of fortifying goat milk kefir with high-value ingredients (3% and 6% date paste, and 25% and 50% goat milk substitution with date–cheese whey), derived from the valorization of date coproducts, on its nutritional (proximate composition and mineral profile), technological (pH, acidity, viscosity, color, sugar and organic acid content), microbiological and sensory properties. Both ingredients enhanced the growth and stability of the kefir starter culture, thereby improving the probiotic potential of date-added kefir and also its nutritious quality (lower fat content and higher protein content). The mineral profile of kefir was improved only when the date paste was added. Date paste could be used as an ingredient in fortified kefir (up to 6%) without altering its flow properties because it was perfectly integrated within the milk matrix. The use of date–cheese whey as a goat milk substitution (>25%) decreased the typical kefir viscosity, inducing an excessive phase separation negatively valued by consumers. Consumers preferred the kefir with 6% date paste mainly due to its higher scores for aroma, flavor, sweetness and acidity. Full article

This paper evaluates the performance of composites made from date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) midribs reinforced with carbon fiber. Two types of adhesives—unsaturated polyester and epoxy resin—were used as binder for the experimental panels. The physical properties and mechanical strength of the composites, as a function of fiber types, lamination configuration, as well as adhesive types, were determined. The density levels of the panels made using epoxy and unsaturated polyester resin were found to be 1103 kg/m³ and 1133 kg/m³, respectively. Panels made using polyester adhesive had 6.05% and 3.98% for water absorption and thickness swelling values, respectively. Corresponding values of 3.09% and 6.35% were found for the panels made using epoxy resin. Mechanical properties of the samples revealed that carbon fiber-reinforced epoxy hybrids offer superior mechanical performance, whereas polyester-based hybrids may be more suitable for impact-resistant applications. Stereo-microscopy and vertical density profile (VDP) analysis of the panels resulted in variations in layer adhesion and density distribution. Based on the findings in this work, carbon fiber-reinforced epoxy-bonded hybrid panels exhibited superior mechanical properties, while those panels made using polyester-based binder would be more suitable where impact resistance is desired. The combination of date palm fibers and carbon fiber presents significant potential for sustainable applications, offering a balance of strength and durability. Full article

The goal of this study was to design polymeric beads with a core of date palm pollen (DPP, Phoenix dactylifera L.) extract using the ionic gelation method and then assess the effects of the extract in combination with alginate polymer (alginate/DPP beads) on the profile of phenolic compounds, their in vitro controlled release, as well as their antioxidant characteristics, and potential role in hepato-protection and fertility-stimulating hormones improvement in bisphenol A (BPA)-treated rats. The encapsulation efficiency (EE) was 94.27 ± 1.47%. The study found that phenolic release was highest (89.81%) at pH 7.4 (simulated intestinal fluid) and lowest (59.43%) at pH 2 (simulated stomach fluid) after 3 h. This particular type of bead also exhibited significant antioxidant activity, phenolic component content, and flavonoid content. The estimated phenolic content was 66.48 mg GAE/g, with methyl gallate, gallic acid, and naringenin as the main components. In vivo evaluation findings revealed that both doses of alginate/DPP beads (delivering 250 and 350 mg/kg of extract per day) significantly protected the liver (as demonstrated by downregulated liver function parameters), improved levels of male fertility-stimulating hormones, reduced oxidative stress parameters and inflammatory cytokines, and protected both liver and testicular tissues from BPA-induced changes. Thus, the actions of alginate/DPP beads make them a promising choice for antioxidant, liver-protecting, and male hormone-enhancing hydrogels. Full article

Human hair, commonly considered a discarded organic waste, is a keratin-rich material with remarkable potential for sustainable agriculture as an innovative resource. This study systematically explored the potential of non-composted human hair hydrolysates as eco-friendly and nutrient-rich liquid fertilizers, emphasizing their ability to enhance agricultural sustainability and mitigate organic waste accumulation. Eight distinct hydrolysates prepared with alkaline solutions were evaluated for their effects on plant growth using red-hot chili pepper (Capsicum frutescens) as the primary model under greenhouse conditions. The present study introduces a novel approach by employing an advanced digital image analysis technique to quantitatively assess 37 distinct plant growth parameters, providing an unprecedented depth of understanding regarding the impact of liquid human hair hydrolysates on plant development. Additionally, the integration of pilot-scale field trials and multi-species evaluations highlights the broader applicability and scalability of these hydrolysates as sustainable fertilizers. Collectively, these features establish this research as a pioneering contribution to sustainable agriculture and bio-waste management. The top-performing hydrolysates (KCaMgN, KMgN, KCaN) demonstrated significant enhancements in plant growth metrics, with fresh weight reaching up to 3210 mg, projected leaf area of approximately 132 cm², and crown diameter of 20.91 cm for the best-performing formulations, outperforming a commercial organomineral fertilizer by 20–46% in overall growth performance. Furthermore, observational studies on various species (such as bird of paradise flower (Strelitzia reginae), avocado (Persea americana), lemon (Citrus limon L.), Mazafati date (Phoenix dactylifera L.), and red mini conical hot pepper (Capsicum annuum var. conoides) and field trials on long sweet green peppers (Capsicum annuum) confirmed the broad applicability of these hydrolysates. Toxicity assessments using shortfin molly fish (Poecilia sphenops) validated the environmental safety of plants cultivated with hydrolysates. These findings highlight that human hair hydrolysates offer a sustainable alternative to synthetic fertilizers, contributing to waste management efforts while enhancing agricultural productivity. Full article

An indigenous consortium of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) from the Figuig oasis in southern Morocco, comprising Rhizophagus sp., Funneliformis sp., Acaulospora sp., Sclerocystis sp., and Scutellospora sp., was evaluated for its effects on the growth and sensitivity of Phoenix dactylifera L. variety (cv. Boufeggous Gharas) to Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. Albedinis (Foa), the causal agent of Bayoud disease. Despite its high fruit quality and local appreciation, the Boufeggous Gharas variety is highly susceptible to Foa and is currently at risk of extinction, underscoring the urgent need for its sustainable management. The results demonstrated that Boufeggous Gharas seedlings inoculated with a consortium of indigenous AMF showed significantly improved shoot and root length, leaf number, and biomass as compared to non-mycorrhized seedlings. In contrast, Foa-infected seedlings showed significantly reduced growth, with a 46.6% decrease in shoot height and a 50.4% reduction in root length compared to non-infected seedlings. Interestingly, AMF inoculation mitigated this sensitivity to Foa, significantly restoring growth parameters. Seedlings treated with AMF + Foa showed a 51% increase in shoot height and a 61% improvement in root length, along with over 100% gains in shoot and root biomass compared to seedlings infected solely with Foa. This study provides the first evidence of integrating AMF into sustainable date palm cultivation practices to mitigate the impacts of biotic stresses, thereby promoting the preservation and valorization of vulnerable date palm varieties. The protective effects of AMF are attributed to improved nutrient uptake, enhanced root architecture, and systemic resistance induced by AMF colonization. Full article