Date Palm Research Articles

Utilization of citrus, date, and jujube substrates for anaerobic digestion processes

AbstractThis research explores the potential for generating biogas and clean energy by processing organic waste, a process that can become a sustainable solution to Syria's energy needs. Focusing on agricultural residues generated from citrus fruit orange, date, and jujube cultivation in Syria, this study evaluates the potential for anaerobic digestion of these residues for biogas production. It highlights the influence of substrate composition and the optimization of fermentation processes on biogas and methane production. The study focuses on evaluating the anaerobic digestion process by examining various dosages ranging from 20% to 50% dry matter for citrus orange waste, and different types of substrate with a fixed ratio of 20% substrate dry matter. It specifically discusses the factors influencing the inhibitory effect of anaerobic digestion, giving particular consideration to orange waste, a significant byproduct of the citrus industry. The biogas produced maintained a stable methane content when a citrus‐to‐inoculum ratio of 30:70 was used. Jujube waste, characterized by a composition rich in cellulose and hemicellulose, exhibited a higher potential for biogas and methane generation among the fruit waste investigated, particularly when combined with the inoculum in a 20:80 ratio. The research findings underscore the potential of using Syrian agricultural residues, including orange citrus peel, date, and jujube fruit, for the production of biogas through anaerobic digestion.

Complementary Foods Formulated from Orange-flesh Sweet Potato, Soybean, and Date Palm Flour Blends Improves the Proximate, Rheological and Sensory Properties of Children’s Formulas

This study evaluated the proximate, rheological and sensory properties of complementary foods produced from orange flesh sweet potato, soybean and date palm flour blends. Complementary foods were produced from orange flesh sweet potato (OFSP), soybean and date palm flour blends. The samples were formulated by material balancing with all samples having 16% protein/ 100g. The samples were coded as CON, CFA, CFB, CFC, CFD and CFE with sample CON being the control. The samples were subjected to rheological and sensory analysis using standard method. Their proximate composition were; moisture (2.51-7.38%), ash (2.27-3.02%), fibre (2.11-4.22%), fat (9.13-10.11%), protein (15.12-16.11%), and carbohydrate (63.06-65.01%). Rheological properties of the gruels were as follows; consistency index (m) (90.57-186.21 Nsn/m2), Flow behaviour index (n) (0.256-0.411), Coefficient of regression (r2) (0.9765-0.9928) and Standard error (0.318-0.405). The sensory attributes gave the following results; appearance (7.77- 8.07), aroma (7.20-8.63), taste (6.80- 8.23), mouth feel (6.87- 8.27), and overall acceptability (6.80- 8.33) and these results when interpreted on appoint hedonic scale. Higher scores generally indicated better sensory attributes and overall acceptability of the food formulation which was observed in sample CFB and CON. There were significant differences between most of the bread samples at (p< 0.05).

Modeling and Optimizing the Alkaline Treatment Process to Enhance the Date Palm Fibers’ Tensile Mechanical Properties Using RSM

ABSTRACT This study aims to enhance the mechanical properties of date palm fibers (DPFs) by implementing a targeted treatment technique. The response surface methodology (RSM) is utilized for modeling and optimizing. The study seeks to identify the optimal Alkaline treatment settings for improving the mechanical properties of DPFs by carefully analyzing parameters such as average diameter, time, and NaOH concentration. The analytical results offer valuable insights into the possible use of DPFs in many engineering applications, contributing to the industrial advancement of sustainable and eco-friendly materials. The experimental findings are analyzed using a full-factorial design (43), incorporating analysis of variance and RSM. Combining RSM and desirability function is used to get the best mechanical properties, including stress, strain, and Young’s modulus. The model appropriateness is evaluated by analyzing residual values. The findings suggest that the sodium hydroxide concentration (%NaOH) has the most significant impact on strain (11.63%), stress (12%), and Young’s modulus (11.72%) besides the time t (h) also significantly influences 6.01%, 6.26%, and 5.79% strain, stress, and Young’s modulus, respectively.

Morphological and Molecular Identification of Oryctes (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) Collected from Date Palm Plantations in Algeria1

Abstract Light traps operated from May 2022 to August 2023 collected Oryctes beetles (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) in date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) plantations in El Oued, Algeria. Morphological examination of 105 adult Oryctes specimens collected from the plantations revealed them to be Oryctes agamemnon arabicus (Fairmaire). Molecular identification, using the cytochrome oxidase c subunit I (COI) marker, confirmed those identifications. Notably, MASH analysis revealed differing degrees of genetic similarity, suggesting nuanced genetic diversity within the population. Utilizing Kraken2 software and the COI database from the National Center for Biotechnology Information, we also determined a high classification rate of approximately 99% of reads for all samples, reinforcing the identity of the specimens as O. agamemnon. These results help advance taxonomic knowledge of the insect fauna of the region as well as supporting environmental conservation initiatives.

Determinants of melon farmers’ adaptation strategies to climate change hazards in south‒south Nigeria

The constant changes experienced in agricultural activities due to climate change pose a great challenge to melon production. Hence, this research examined the determinants of melon farmers’ adaptation strategies to cope with climate change hazards in southern–southern Nigeria. The research ultimately depended on primary data collected by using a set of questionnaires and interviews. The data were obtained from 260 samples retrieved from melon farmers by using multistage sampling techniques. The data were analyzed using the multivariate probit (MVP) model and partial eta squared test. The results of the MVP model showed that age (− 0.009), marital status (0.200), access to information on climate change (0.567) and crop insurance (0.214) were significant at the 0.01 level, while household size (− 0.030) was significant at the 0.05 level and determined the adoption of crop diversification. Educational level (0.012), extension contact (0.138) and access to credit (0.122) were significant at the 0.05 level, while access to information on climate change (0.415) was significant at the 0.01 level and determined the adoption of change in planting dates. Age (− 0.010) and access to information on climate change (0.381) were significant at the 0.01 level, while sex (− 0.139), marital status (0.158) and off-farm income (− 2.3E-7) were significant at the 0.05 level and determined the adoption of mixed farming. Farming experience (0.005) is significant at the 0.05 level, while access to information on climate change (0.529) and crop insurance (0.272) are significant at the 0.01 level and determine the adoption of drought-tolerant crop species. Access to information on climate change (0.536) is significant at the 0.01 level, indicating the adoption of improved crop species. Age (− 0.010), farm size (− 0.085) and crop insurance (0.206) were significant at the 0.05 level, while access to information on climate change (0.353) was significant at the 0.01 level and determined the adoption of off-farm job opportunities. The study recommends the availability and accessibility of credit, climate-smart agricultural practices, and the establishment of public‒private partnerships, among others.

Recycling of Date Palm Seed Substrate: Utilisation as Feed Material for Tenebrio molitor Larvae (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae)

Recycling of Date Palm Seed Substrate: Utilisation as Feed Material for Tenebrio molitor Larvae (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae)

Effective Adsorption and Photocatalytic Degradation of 2,4-D Using Silver Plasmonic Nanoparticles Modified Titania/Activated Carbon Based on Date Palm Fiber

Effective Adsorption and Photocatalytic Degradation of 2,4-D Using Silver Plasmonic Nanoparticles Modified Titania/Activated Carbon Based on Date Palm Fiber

Performance enhancement of solar distillers integrated with new green composite thermal insulations: Experimental and economic approach

This work aims to improve water productivity in solar stills by reducing heat loss through green composite insulators to ensure storage of the absorbed thermal energy. Two green composite materials were proposed and presented. The first is made of date palm fiber and mortar (PFM), and the second is made of date palm fiber and gypsum (PFG). Three identical solar distillers were designed and tested under the same meteorological conditions of El Oued, Algeria. The first is the reference case (RSW distiller) where a 5 cm thick wooden box is used as insulation. The second (MSD-PFM distiller) is insulated with a 2.5 cm thick PFM composite material and then installed inside a 2.5 cm thick wooden box. The third (MSD-PFG distiller) is insulated with a 2.5 cm thick PFG composite material and then installed inside a 2.5 cm thick wooden box. The thermal conductivity of the proposed composite insulators was first determined experimentally and then used as insulators. Results showed that the accumulated water production from the MSD-PFG (4100 mlm-2day-1) is higher than that of the MSD-PFM (3400 mlm-2day-1) and RSW solar distillers (2800 mlm-2day-1) by 21.5 % and 46.43 %, respectively. The improvement in thermal efficiency of the proposed MSD-PFG and MSD-PFM were 45.77 % and 21.14 %, respectively. The economic analysis showed that the improvement in the production cost by MSD-PFG (0.011 $/liter) and MSD-PFM (0.0153 $/liter) were 31.68 % and 4.97 %, respectively. The sustainability, eco-friendliness, and cost-effectiveness of composite date palm make it an attractive option for insulation applications in solar distillers.

Heavy metals in dates (Phoenix dactylifera L.) collected from Medina and Dhaka City markets, and assessment of human health risk

BackgroundConstantly eaten foods (such as fruits, vegetables, cereal, etc.) that contain excessive concentrations of heavy metals pose a major risk to human health and deplete the food supply. The amounts of heavy metals in different date varietiies were measured after they were collected from three wholesale markets in the major cities of Dhaka, Bangladesh, and Medina. In order to look at the health risks associated with heavy metal consumption after intake of dates, the Average Daily Intake (ADI), Hazard Quotient (HQ), and Hazard Index (HI) were also calculated.ResultsCopper (Cu), Cadmium (Cd), Chromium (Cr), Iron (Fe), Lead (Pb), Manganese (Mn), Nickel (Ni), and Zinc (Zn) levels were evaluated. Several analyses of date fruit exhibited levels of Pb and Cd in different date varieties that beyond the Maximum Permissible Limit (MPL). In the majority of the samples, ADI was below the upper authorized tolerated daily consumption. The likelihood of a health risk from the regular eating of the investigated date fruits is revealed by the hazardous indexes of samples taken from New Market and Badamtali that surpassed unit value as a result of excessive air pollution brought on by greater industrial and vehicle traffic. According to the study, the majority of the analyzed heavy metals were identified in date samples and those from later samples at levels that were less harmful than the maximum acceptable threshold (MAL).ConclusionsSome samples included higher levels of Pb and Cd. As a result, eating dates that contain more metal has a higher chance of harming your health. Additionally, it has been recommended that regular testing for heavy metals in date fruits may be useful in preventing health risks associated with eating fruits that are contaminated with heavy metals.

A systematic review on Nipah virus: global molecular epidemiology and medical countermeasures development.

Nipah virus (NiV) is an emerging pathogen that causes encephalitis and a high mortality rate in infected subjects. This systematic review aimed to comprehensively analyze the global epidemiology and research advancements of NiV to identify the key knowledge gaps in the literature. Articles searched using literature databases, namely PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Science Direct yielded 5,596 articles. After article screening, 97 articles were included in this systematic review, comprising 41 epidemiological studies and 56 research developments on NiV. The majority of the NiV epidemiological studies were conducted in Bangladesh, reflecting the country's significant burden of NiV outbreaks. The initial NiV outbreak was identified in Malaysia in 1998, with subsequent outbreaks reported in Bangladesh, India, and the Philippines. Transmission routes vary by country, primarily through pigs in Malaysia, consumption of date palm juice in Bangladesh, and human-to-human in India. However, the availability of NiV genome sequences remains limited, particularly from Malaysia and India. Mortality rates also vary according to the country, exceeding 70% in Bangladesh, India, and the Philippines, and less than 40% in Malaysia. Understanding these differences in mortality rate among countries is crucial for informing NiV epidemiology and enhancing outbreak prevention and management strategies. In terms of research developments, the majority of studies focused on vaccine development, followed by phylogenetic analysis and antiviral research. While many vaccines and antivirals have demonstrated complete protection in animal models, only two vaccines have progressed to clinical trials. Phylogenetic analyses have revealed distinct clades between NiV Malaysia, NiV Bangladesh, and NiV India, with proposals to classify NiV India as a separate strain from NiV Bangladesh. Taken together, comprehensive OneHealth approaches integrating disease surveillance and research are imperative for future NiV studies. Expanding the dataset of NiV genome sequences, particularly from Malaysia, Bangladesh, and India will be pivotal. These research efforts are essential for advancing our understanding of NiV pathogenicity and for developing robust diagnostic assays, vaccines and therapeutics necessary for effective preparedness and response to future NiV outbreaks.

Enhancing mechanical performance of polypropylene bio-based composites using chemically treated date palm filler

Utilizing agro-residues as organic fillers instead of wood is considered a sustainable option for preserving forestry. Recently, we successfully developed a new chemical treatment method to extract rich cellulosic microfibers from agro-residues of date palm trees. The treated fibers exhibited an improved performance, thus demonstrating the prominent potency of the new method. For further confirmation, in this study, we have applied the technique to treat raw microfibers and examine their performance as reinforcing elements in both virgin polypropylene (PP) and recycled post-consumer polypropylene (rPP). The chemically treated fibers were initially pulverized to a powder form using a ball milling machine and then blended with PP or rPP to make bio-composites. Specimens were fabricated at melt state using a single-screw extruder followed by compression molding. Then, a series of mechanical and physical tests were conducted on the specimens following ASTM standards. Results revealed that incorporating treated fillers into either PP or rPP has enhanced the mechanical properties of the bio-composite compared to the ones with untreated filler. Owing to the treatment, the rise in tensile strength of recycled polymer-based bio-composites was higher than that of virgin polymer-based bio-composites where treated fillers acted effectively as a nucleation agent to rPP. Additionally, a pronounced drop in water absorption and boost in crystallinity of both bio-composites were attained. However, thermal degradation was not dramatically altered. Therefore, this study showed that reinforcing rPP with treated date palm filler to make bio-composites is a reliable route for designing products across a wide range of industries.

The influence of temperature, light, pH and salinity on germination and growth of Cutandia memphitica (Spreng.) Benth

Background: There are many weed species that affect yield and quality in date palm orchards. Cutandia memphitica (Spreng.) Benth. is one of the weeds that is common in date palm orchards in Iraq. However, there is not enough information about C. memphitica in the literature. In order to provide information about the effect of key environmental factors (temperature, light, pH, and salt) on the seed biology of this weed species, this study was conducted.Methods: Within 2020, seeds were collected from agricultural regions in southern Iraq, and trials were done at Erciyes University Faculty of Agriculture labs in Kayseri Türkiye. All experiments were carried out with 30 seeds in the sterile 90 mm (90×15) petri dishes containing two layers of sterile filter paper.Results: The results of this investigation revealed that the seeds of this species germinated by 72.49% in three days when incubated at 25°C, and by 96.66% in 14 days when incubated at 15°C. The results also indicated that even during the longest incubation time examined, which was 28 days, the seeds of this species never germinated at 30 degrees or above. They can germinate during this period if kept at 5°C. The study also revealed that 90% of the seeds of this species germinated in complete darkness, whereas only 11.66% germinated in light. However, light has a significant impact on studied growth parameters (plant height and seedling fresh and dry weight). The results also demonstrate that the pH levels examined, which varied from 4 to 10, had no effect on the seed germination and growth parameters of seedling.Conclusion: The results showed that the seeds of this species germinated at the highest salinity levels (250 mM NaCl) by 10.83%. Meanwhile, the best germination was recorded at 25 mM salinity level of 89.16%, but without significant differences with salinity level at 50 mM and control. Also, the growth indicators were reduced significantly at the salinity level of 250 mM compared to the control.Keywords: Light; Salinity; Seed Germination; Temperature; Weed; Date Palm

Sweet Pepper Farming Strategies in Response to Climate Change: Enhancing Yield and Shelf Life through Planting Time and Cultivar Selection

Climate change is an important concern worldwide. This huge change is causing a negative impact on crop productivity throughout the whole world and shows some drastic effects on sensitive crops including sweet pepper and other kinds of chilies. These stresses have a negative effect on vegetable growth, fruit quality, and fruit yield. Besides these stresses, accurate planting time is the utmost factor in increasing the crop potential and its productivity. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the optimal planting date and best-performing cultivar for sweet pepper to maximize crop productivity, growth, yield, and fruit shelf life under the impacts of climate change. The experiment was conducted in Multan, Pakistan (30° 25 N and 71° 30 E). In this experiment, four planting dates (10 January, 25 January, 10 February, and 25 February) with three cultivars (Ganga, Winner, and Savio) were grown with three replications (each year) during 2020 and 2021. Our findings showed that plant growth, fresh and dry biomass, yield, and yield attributes were statistically higher in earlier plantings, and lower in delayed planting. Regarding the cultivars in both years, ‘Winner’ performed better in all growth and yield parameters as compared to other growing cultivars. Lower weight loss and decay incidence were reported in ‘Winner’ cultivar. Additionally, ‘Winner’ cultivar showed a higher sensory score as compared to the other cultivar in both years. From the results, we conclude that the nursery of sweet pepper plants should be planted on the 25 January to attain higher crop productivity, and the cultivar ‘Winner’ showed promising effects so it should be planted for better yield.

The effect and mechanism of Debaryomyces nepalensis and six strains of winter jujube epiphytic bacteria in building a synthetic community to control post-harvest black spot disease of winter jujube

The study aimed to develop a synthetic microbial community capable of managing postharvest black spot disease in winter jujube. The research revealed that treatment with Debaryomyces nepalensis altered the surface microbial community, reducing the presence of harmful fungi such as Alternaria, Penicillium, Fusarium, and Botrytis, while boosting beneficial bacteria like Pantoea, Bacillus, Staphylococcus, and Pseudomonas, leading to a decreased decay rate in date fruits. A synthetic community was crafted, integrating D. nepalensis with seven other bacterial strains selected for their abundance, compatibility, culturability, and interactions. This community was refined through homo-pore damage experiments and safety assessments to a final formulation consisting of D. nepalensis and six other bacteria: Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus velezensis, Staphylococcus arlettae, Staphylococcus gallinarum, Pseudomonas sp., and Pseudomonas psychrotolerans. Fruit inoculation tests demonstrated that this synthetic community (6 + 1) significantly lowered the incidence and size of black spot lesions compared to single-strain treatments. By the 10th day of storage, the incidence was 69.23 % lower than the control and 52.94 % lower than the group treated solely with D. nepalensis. Mechanistic studies of the synthetic community's antibacterial effects showed that it can produce volatile compounds, proteases, and β-1,3-glucanase to inhibit pathogen growth. Additionally, the community forms a biofilm to compete for nutrients and induce jujube resistance to disease.

Longitudinal trials illustrate interactive effects between declining Bt efficacy against Helicoverpa zea (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) and planting dates of corn.

Helicoverpa zea (Boddie) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) has evolved resistance to insecticidal toxins from Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) Berliner (Bacillales: Bacillaceae) expressed in genetically engineered corn, Zea mays L. This study provides an overview of field trials from Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina evaluating Bt and non-Bt corn hybrids from 2009 to 2022 to show changes in susceptibility in H. zea to Bt corn. The reduction in kernel injury relative to a non-Bt hybrid averaged across planting dates generally declined over time for Cry1A.105 + Cry2Ab2 corn. In addition, there was a significant interaction with planting date used as a covariate. The reduction in kernel injury remained above 80% and did not vary with planting date from 2009 to 2014, whereas a significant decline with planting date was found in this reduction from 2015 to 2022. For Cry1Ab + Cry1F corn, the reduction in kernel injury relative to a non-Bt hybrid averaged across planting dates did not vary among years. The reduction in kernel injury significantly declined with planting date from 2012 to 2022. Kernel injury as a proxy for H. zea pressure was greater in late-planted trials in non-Bt corn hybrids. Our study showed that Bt hybrids expressing Cry1A.105 + Cry2Ab2 are now less effective in later planted trials in reducing H. zea injury; however, this was not the case during the earlier years of adoption of corn expressing these 2 toxins when resistance alleles were likely less frequent in H. zea populations. The implications for management of H. zea and for insect resistance management are discussed.

Pengaruh Konsumsi Buah Kurma terhadap Kadar Hemoglobin Ibu Hamil dengan Anemia

Globally, the prevalence of anemia in pregnant women in developed countries is 49% and in developing countries it is 53%. In Indonesia, the rate of anemia in pregnant women is quite high, namely 48.9%. Anemia in pregnant women can increase the risk of premature birth and bleeding. One effort that can help prevent and treat anemia in pregnant women is to consume foods that are sources of iron, for example dates. The aim of the research was to determine the effect of consuming dates on hemoglobin levels in pregnant women with anemia. The research design used a quasi-experimental one group with control group. The experimental group was the group that consumed dates and Fe tablets, while the control group only consumed Fe tablets. The population is all third trimester pregnant women at PMB Lina in May 2024, totaling 24 respondents where each group consists of 12 respondents. The sampling technique used is total sampling. Based on the results of the normality test, sig. >0.05, then the statistical test used is the Paired Sample T Test. The average hemoglobin level in the experimental group before being given dates and Fe tablets was 10.2 gr/dl and the average hemoglobin level after being given date palm juice was 11.4 gr/dl. The results of the Wilcoxon test obtained a p value of 0.001, meaning that there was an effect of giving dates on hemoglobin levels in pregnant women. It is hoped that health workers can increase public knowledge, especially pregnant women, about food sources high in iron so that they can prevent and reduce the incidence of pregnancy anemia. Key words: , ,

The Effects of Different Seed Rates on Yield and Economical Feasibility of Mustard (Brassica juncea)

Rapeseed-mustard plant (Brassica juncea)” is any one of several plant species in the genera Brassica, Rhamphospermum and Sinapis in the family Brassicaceae (the mustard family). Mustard seed is used as a spice. Grinding and mixing the seeds with water, vinegar, or other liquids creates the yellow condiment known as prepared mustard. The seeds can also be pressed to make mustard oil, and the edible leaves can be eaten as mustard greens. Many vegetables are cultivated varieties of mustard plants; domestication may have begun 6,000 years ago. Mustard is a popular condiment, commonly it is a popular condiment made from the seeds of the mustard plant. It can be prepared using white/yellow mustard, brown mustard, or black mustard seeds mixed with liquids, salt, and other flavorings to create a paste or sauce. Mustard pairs well with meats, vegetables, and cheeses and is commonly used in sandwiches, hamburgers, and hot dogs. It is also used in dressings, glazes, sauces, and marinades around the world. The word "mustard" has origins in Latin and French, and archaeological evidence suggests mustard cultivation dates back to ancient civilizations like the Indus Valley. Mustard has a long history of culinary use, with the Romans likely being the first to experiment with mustard as a condiment. In France, Dijon became a renowned center for mustard making, and Dijon mustard is still highly regarded today. Mustard has various uses, such as a condiment, an ingredient in sauces and soups, and an emulsifier in dishes like Hollandaise sauce. The flavor and heat of mustard depend on the seed type and preparation method. Mustard offers nutritional benefits such as vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids. Mustard plants is used for producing edible oil for human, oil-cake for feeding animals, sauce, spices, medicine and other purposes in Afghanistan. Mustard has a long history in Afghanistan and is mostly cultivated in the Northern provinces such as Baghlan, Kunduz, Thakkar, Samangan and etc. For the above-mentioned importance of Mustard, we decided to apply a research on seed rates to fine the desirable seed rate of mustard crop for Afghan Mustard growers. Seed rates are one of the important factors, which the suitable seed rates prevent from the economic loss of farmers. This research accomplished in the title of “The effects of different seed rates on yield and growth components of mustard (Brassica juncea)” The research was designed in a complete block design (RCBD) with three replications and five treatments. The data were collected from growth parameters such as plant height, number branches plant-1, number of leaves plant-1 as well as yield parameters such as number of pods plan-1, number of seeds plant-1, seed yield kg ha-1, dry matter kg ha-1 and biological yield kg ha-1. The collected data were analyzed using excel, OPSTAT online testing program, statistical tool for agricultural research (STAR). Based on the statistical analysis the significant differences were observed in all parameters at (P≥0.05. Least significant difference (LSD) was used to compare treatments. A positive correlation was also recognized between growth and yield parameters. Mostly treatment three (15 cm) space between rows performed high influence then the other treatments. We recommend much more research to find the best space between plant to plant and row to row. For the moment the farmers of Afghanistan can use the result of this research on their field for obtaining high yield from Mustard.

Comparison of kink-band structures and specificities of cell wall polysaccharides in modern and ancient flax fibres

Flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) is a plant of industrial importance, its fibres being presently used for high-value textile applications, composite reinforcements as well as natural actuators. Human interest in this fibre-rich plant dates back several millennia, including to Ancient Egypt where flax was used extensively in various quotidian items. While the recent technical developments of flax fibres continue to diversify through scientific research, the historical use of flax also has rich lessons for today. Through careful examination of ancient Egyptian and modern flax fibres, this study aims to conduct a multi-scale characterization from the yarn to the fibre cell wall scale, linking differences in structure and polysaccharide content to the mechanical performance and durability of flax. Here, a multi-scale biochemical study is enriched by scanning electron microscopy and nanomechanical investigations. A key finding is the similarity of cellulose features, crystallinity index and local mechanical performances between ancient and modern fibres. Biochemically speaking, monosaccharides analysis, deep-UV and NMR investigations demonstrate that ancient fibres exhibit less pectins but a similar hemicellulosic content, especially through uronic acids and galactose, suggesting the sensitivity of these non-crystalline components.

Thermal sum accumulated in development stages of tomato crop for industrial processing

Tomato crop for industrial processing is very sensitive to weather variations. Therefore, the objective of this research was to quantify the duration (days and thermal sum) of each developmental stage of different hybrids in two different planting date. For this, 12 commercial hybrids were evaluated: H-1301, BS-P0033, CVR-8161, HM-7885, CVR-6116, HM-7883, H-1536, CVR-2909, TPX-26856, CVR-8126, CTI-35 and N-901, in Abadia de Goiás, Brazil, planted on 03/31/2020 and 05/26/2020. Experimental area with 3,120 m2, 4 blocks with 12 experimental plots each (12 hybrids), and each plot, formed by 3 double planting lines of 10 m, spaced 0.6 m x 1.2 m, with plants every 0.37 m, totaling 27 plants per line and 162 plants per plot. Plant phenology was monitored daily: phase I (planting to set), phase II (set to flowering), phase III (flowering to beginning of maturation) and phase IV (IVa beginning of maturation up to 50% of mature fruits and phase IVb (from 50% to 90% of mature fruits). The results show, on average of all hybrids, thermal sum of 1,394 and 1,364 oC obtained in 124.6 and 116.1 days of cycle, in first and second cycle, respectively. In first cycle, there was a difference in thermal sum between the hybrids in stage IV and in total cycle, which hybrids BS-P0033, CVR-8161, HM-7885, HM-7883, CVR-2909 and TPX-26856 accumulated from 81.29 to 112.88 oC in 6 to 9.3 days to complete maturation, while other hybrids accumulated from 122.85 to 148.11 oC in 10.3 to 13 days. The hybrids BS-P0033, CVR-8161, HM-7885 and HM-7883 had a shorter total cycle duration from 1,334.21 to 1,379.98 oC (119 to 123 days), while other hybrids variated of 1,391.45 to 1,437.05 oC (124.3 to 129 days). The stages of setting, vegetative and beginning of maturation up to 50% of ripe fruits, showed variation in thermal sum and duration of phase, depending on planting date. For the first cycle, the duration of average vegetative stage was 21.7% longer, accumulating 34.1% more oC, compared to the second cycle, providing greater plant height (43.8%) and higher productivity (19.8%). This shows that is need to change irrigation management strategy between transplanting date and crop development stages, making irrigation adjustments by thermal sum and not by number of days for development stage.

Improving Fruit Set, Yield and Fruit Quality of Barhee Date Palms Using Some Natural Plant Extracts

This experiment was conducted during two successive seasons (2020 and 2021). The aim of this research is to study the effect of spraying Barhee date palm with some natural plant extracts on fruit set, yield and fruit physical and chemical properties. Inflorescences were sprayed with moringa and garlic extracts at 2 or 4% for both, three times (one hour before pollination, one month after pollination and two months after pollination). The obtained results indicated that spraying date palm inflorescences with moringa and garlic extracts produced higher initial fruit set as compared with the untreated ones in the two seasons. While all tested treatments improved fruit physical characteristics such as fruit weight, flesh weight, fruit length and diameter compared to the control treatment in the two studied seasons; moringa extract recorded the heaviest bunches and yield/palm in both seasons. In addition, the results showed that moringa extract at 4% increased total soluble solids%, total sugars%, reducing and non-reducing sugars% in both seasons compared to the control. Meanwhile, the lowest fruit set, bunch weight, yield/palm and fruit physical and chemical properties were recorded due to the control in both seasons. Also, all treatments reduced significantly total acidity% in both seasons. In addition, spraying moringa extract at 4% improved leaf mineral content (N, P, K, Ca and Mg) and gave the highest values followed by moringa extract at 2%, then garlic extract at 4% and 2%, respectively in both seasons.