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Improving grain yield (GY) is a major goal of durum wheat breeding programs, and a high yield needs to be attained while preserving grain quality. The current study evaluated the changes caused by a breeding program on the association between GY and grain protein content (PC) in Moroccan durum wheat. Field experiments with six leading varieties released over three decades were conducted for three growing seasons under two water regimes. GY and PC were largely controlled by environmental effects, including both the growing season and water regime. The year of release and growing season effects were the predominant sources of variation in total chlorophyll content (TCC). A significant increase in GY with the year of release was observed under irrigated conditions, whereas a significant increase in PC over time was noted under rainfed conditions. In addition, a negative correlation was revealed between GY and PC, which was significant only in the rainfed trials. Similarly, a significant and positive association was noted between PC and TCC within the rainfed trials, but not in the irrigated trials. Based on GGE (genotype main effect plus genotype ​× ​environment interaction) biplot analysis, the new varieties ‘Marouane’ and ‘Faraj’ were identified as desirable varieties in terms of GY and PC close to the ‘ideal genotype’. These results indicated that when grown under current irrigated conditions, new varieties improved by the Moroccan breeding program showed better GY performance than old varieties.

The olive tree (Olea europaea L.) is an evergreen tree that occupies 19% of the woody crop area and is cultivated in 67 countries on five continents. The largest olive production region is concentrated in the Mediterranean basin, where the olive tree has had an enormous economic, cultural, and environmental impact since the 7th century BC. In the Mediterranean region, salinity stands out as one of the main abiotic stress factors significantly affecting agricultural production. Moreover, climate change is expected to lead to increased salinization in this region, threatening olive productivity. Salt stress causes combined damage by osmotic stress and ionic toxicity, restricting olive growth and interfering with multiple metabolic processes. A large variability in salinity tolerance among olive cultivars has been described. This paper aims to synthesize information from the published literature on olive adaptations to salt stress and its importance in salinity tolerance. The morphological, physiological, biochemical, and molecular mechanisms of olive tolerance to salt stress are reviewed.

This work aims to merge ethnopharmacological knowledge with biochemical analysis to enrich our understanding of the significance of the argan tree (Argania spinosa (L.) Skeels) and to valorize its crucial role in the province of Essaouira (Morocco). First, a survey was conducted using semistructured interviews with 325 informants from Essaouira province between February and April 2023. The interviews covered sociodemographic data and information on argan tree uses, whether for therapeutic, cosmetic, or food purposes (i.e., applications, parts used, preparation, and administration). Second, phenolic extracts were prepared from various parts of the argan tree (i.e., leaves, kernels, nut shells, press cake, and oil) and then assessed for their antioxidant potential to scientifically validate their traditional uses. The evaluation of antioxidant activity focused on their free radical scavenging and reducing capacities, using DPPH and FRAP assays. Findings confirmed the cultural significance of the argan tree for the local population, as well as their strong dependence on its products. Indeed, it was noted that argan-based products are widely favored in traditional cuisine, with a prevalence of 83.4%; Amlou is the most commonly consumed food. Therapeutic and cosmetic applications accounted for 48.6% and 28.0%, respectively, predominantly for treating skin and subcutaneous issues (69.5%) and diabetes (19.7%). Argan oil was the most cited argan product used, often consumed raw (97.5%), followed by almonds (22.8%). Cataplasm (26.1%) and maceration (24.6%) were preferred for argan derivative preparation. External application (50.1%) was the primary administration method, followed by oral consumption (38.1%) and massage (27.7%). For in vitro assays, the argan tree could prove to be a promising source of phenolic compounds, especially in the leaves (>4 times richer than other parts, 231.046 ± 5.090 mg GAE/g DW). DPPH and FRAP tests demonstrated notable antiradical potential and reducing power, concentration-dependent. Leaf-derived phenolic extracts exhibited the highest free radical scavenging potential (IC50 = 0.589 ± 0.005 mg/ml) and the best reducing capacity (IC50 = 0.420 ± 0.005 mg/ml), although these potencies remained below the standard used. This study represents valuable documentation that can serve to preserve information on the use of argan products while exploring their phytochemical and pharmacological properties.

Abstract Background Dopamine D2 receptor agonists, bromocriptine and cabergoline, are notable medications in the treatment of Parkinsonism, hyperprolactinemia, and hyperglycemia. An affiliation was found between the initiation of myocardial injury ailment and long term treatment with dopamine D2 agonist drugs identified with the partial activation of 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor 2 A (5-HT2A). The investigation aimed to examine the activity of sarpogrelate (a 5-HT2A receptor blocker) in reducing myocardial injury prompted by extended haul utilisation of D2 receptor agonists in rats with alloxan-induced diabetes. Methods Both bromocriptine and cabergoline were managed independently and combined with sarpogrelate for about a month in diabetic nephropathy rats. Both tail-cuff blood pressure and the BGL were recorded weekly. For all animals, the kidney hypertrophy index, serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, alanine transaminase, and aspartate transaminase levels were measured after one month of treatment. The severity of the cardiac injury was assessed by the estimation of lactate dehydrogenase-1 (LDH-1), cardiac troponin I, and tumor necrosis factor alpha 1 (TNF1). The triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining method was used to determine the experimental myocardial infarction (MI) size. Results Bromocriptine and cabergoline created a significant reduction in BGL, BP, and kidney hypertrophy index in diabetic nephropathy rats. Administration of bromocriptine and cabergoline, alone, or in combination with sarpogrelate fundamentally diminished the blood concentrations of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), urea, and creatinine. Bromocriptine and cabergoline alone showed a noteworthy increase in the LDH-1, Troponin I, and TNF1 levels in the serum (p

ABSTRACT: Background: Although dopamine D2 receptor agonists, bromocriptine and cabergoline, are notable medications in the treatment of Parkinsonism, hyperprolactinemia, and hyperglycemia, there is an identified relationship between the utilization of D2-like R agonists and the progress of myocardial injury, especially in the early phase of therapy. Objective: This investigation aimed to examine the potential activity of sarpogrelate (a 5-hydroxytryptamine 2A [5-HT2A] receptor blocker) in reducing myocardial injury prompted by extended haul utilization of D2 receptor agonists in a model of diabetic rats. Methods: In the in vivo studies, both bromocriptine and cabergoline were managed independently and combined with sarpogrelate for about a month in diabetic nephropathy rats. Blood glucose level and other myocardial biochemical parameters were estimated. The probable mechanism for insulin secretagogue action was evaluated through in vitro isolated islets study. Sodium/potassium-adenosine triphosphatase activity was assayed in an isolated microsomal fraction of the renal cortex. Isolated perfused rat hearts were treated with different doses of dopamine before and after being subjected to the tested drugs, dose response of heart rate, and heart contractility were recorded. Results: Bromocriptine and cabergoline created a significant reduction in blood glucose level without any action on insulin secretagogues. Bromocriptine prevented the loss of sodium/potassium-adenosine triphosphatase activity in the cortex of an ischemic kidney. Treatment of bromocriptine or cabergoline with sarpogrelate altogether decreased the levels of the elevated myocardial biomarkers in serum. Administration of different doses of dopamine in presence of bromocriptine or capergoline resulted in significantly rising in the heart rate percentage comparing to dopamine alone. A mix of bromocriptine or cabergoline with sarpogrelate diminished both heart rate and contractility, respectively. Conclusions: The examination demonstrated that the combined use of sarpogrelate with bromocriptine or cabergoline decreased the potential adverse effects of these 2 drugs on myocardial tissues.

Color indices are important quality traits that define the consumer visual acceptance and agroindustrial preferences. Little is known regarding these properties in the commercial almond cultivars grown in Morocco. This work aimed at investigating kernel color indices in five cultivars, namely, “Fournat de Brézenaud,” “Tuono,” “Ferragnès,” “Ferraduel,” and “Marcona.” Color indices consisted in the following: brightness (L∗), redness index (a∗), yellowness index (b∗), chroma (C∗), hue (H∗), and metric saturation (S∗). Measurements were performed over three consecutive growing seasons (2016–2018) across five different sites from northern (Aknoul, Bni Hadifa, and Tahar Souk) and eastern (Rislane and Sidi Bouhria) Morocco. All factors (cultivar, growing season, and site) affected significantly studied color properties; however, genotype was the main variability source. Wide variabilities were found among cultivars. “Marcona” showed the highest L∗, while “Ferragnès” and “Ferraduel” displayed greater scores of a∗, b∗, C∗, and S∗. Sidi Bouhria presented the lowest L∗ but higher a∗, H∗, and S∗. Moreover, Bni Hadifa displayed higher L∗, b∗, and C∗. 2016 (drier growing season) had the highest values of most indices. Principal component analyses (PCA) discriminate all factors through the first three components: PC1 (61%, genetic component) and PC2 (30%) and PC3 (7%) which were of environmental nature since they separate sites and growing seasons, respectively. Despite environmental effects, we suggested a possible discrimination among the studied cultivars based on their kernel color indices. Drought conditions during fruit development seemed to improve kernel quality via synthesis of pigments resulting in higher a∗ and b∗.

The development of high-yielding durum wheat genotypes requires the knowledge of the genetic variation for grain yield and its components. This study was performed to determine genetic gain and to evaluate the genotype × environment effect for grain yield and related traits in Moroccan durum wheat. A historical series of varieties developed during the last three decades was grown under two water regimes (rainfed and irrigated) during three growing seasons. Traits evaluated in the present work included grain yield, spikes per m2, kernels per spike, spikelets per spike, kernels per spikelet, spike length, kernel weight, plant height, harvest index, and fertile tillering. Results from ANOVA analyses revealed that grain yield and related traits were controlled to a large extent by water regime and growing season. Grain yield advance per year was estimated in 78 kg ha−1 under irrigated conditions, with no significant change under rainfed ones. Overall, the results indicated that most of the yield components changed by breeding activities during the last three decades. AMMI and joint regression analyses revealed that intermediate varieties have a wide adaptation, and old varieties were specifically acclimated to water-limit environments, while modern varieties were performed only under favorable conditions.

The olive tree (Olea europaea L.) is an evergreen tree that occupies 19% of the woody crop area and is cultivated in 67 countries on five continents. The largest olive production region is concentrated in the Mediterranean basin, where the olive tree has had an enormous economic, cultural, and environmental impact since the 7th century BC. In the Mediterranean region, salinity stands out as one of the main abiotic stress factors significantly affecting agricultural production. Moreover, climate change is expected to lead to increased salinization in this region, threatening olive productivity. Salt stress causes combined damage by osmotic stress and ionic toxicity, restricting olive growth and interfering with multiple metabolic processes. A large variability in salinity tolerance among olive cultivars has been described. This paper aims to synthesize information from the published literature on olive adaptations to salt stress and its importance in salinity tolerance. The morphological, physiological, biochemical, and molecular mechanisms of olive tolerance to salt stress are reviewed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work aims to merge ethnopharmacological knowledge with biochemical analysis to enrich our understanding of the significance of the argan tree (Argania spinosa (L.) Skeels) and to valorize its crucial role in the province of Essaouira (Morocco). First, a survey was conducted using semistructured interviews with 325 informants from Essaouira province between February and April 2023. The interviews covered sociodemographic data and information on argan tree uses, whether for therapeutic, cosmetic, or food purposes (i.e., applications, parts used, preparation, and administration). Second, phenolic extracts were prepared from various parts of the argan tree (i.e., leaves, kernels, nut shells, press cake, and oil) and then assessed for their antioxidant potential to scientifically validate their traditional uses. The evaluation of antioxidant activity focused on their free radical scavenging and reducing capacities, using DPPH and FRAP assays. Findings confirmed the cultural significance of the argan tree for the local population, as well as their strong dependence on its products. Indeed, it was noted that argan‐based products are widely favored in traditional cuisine, with a prevalence of 83.4%; Amlou is the most commonly consumed food. Therapeutic and cosmetic applications accounted for 48.6% and 28.0%, respectively, predominantly for treating skin and subcutaneous issues (69.5%) and diabetes (19.7%). Argan oil was the most cited argan product used, often consumed raw (97.5%), followed by almonds (22.8%). Cataplasm (26.1%) and maceration (24.6%) were preferred for argan derivative preparation. External application (50.1%) was the primary administration method, followed by oral consumption (38.1%) and massage (27.7%). For in vitro assays, the argan tree could prove to be a promising source of phenolic compounds, especially in the leaves (>4 times richer than other parts, 231.046 ± 5.090 mg GAE/g DW). DPPH and FRAP tests demonstrated notable antiradical potential and reducing power, concentration‐dependent. Leaf‐derived phenolic extracts exhibited the highest free radical scavenging potential (IC50 = 0.589 ± 0.005 mg/ml) and the best reducing capacity (IC50 = 0.420 ± 0.005 mg/ml), although these potencies remained below the standard used. This study represents valuable documentation that can serve to preserve information on the use of argan products while exploring their phytochemical and pharmacological properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes the composition and quality characteristics of the "Moroccan Picholine" virgin olive oil (VOO) produced in Taza province (northern Morocco). Legal quality indices, pigments, total phenols, oxidative stability, and fatty acid composition were analyzed under the impact of three extraction systems (two phase [C2] and three phase [C3] centrifugation decanters and super‐pressure [SP]) in three production sites (Bni Frassen, Bouchfaa, and Taza) during three consecutive crop seasons (2014, 2015, and 2016). All the assessed parameters were largely affected by the extraction system. Indeed, the two phase centrifugation system provided the better quality of VOO with the lowest values of free fatty acids and oxidation indices and the highest amounts of oleic acid, carotenoids, and total phenols therefore the greatest oxidative stability. Crop season and production site had only significant impacts on some parameters. VOO produced in 2015 from Bni Frassen was richer on total phenols hence presented lower values of peroxide value. Principal component analysis (PCA) showed a clear separation along PC1 (58%) between C2 with better VOO characteristics from both C3 and SP, while PC2 (11%) allowed a net distinction of VOO produced in 2014 from those in 2015 and 2016. Moreover, the oxidative stability of the assessed VOO was found strongly related to total phenol and carotenoid contents as well as oleic/linoleic ratio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines physiological and biochemical changes in three Moroccan varieties of young olive trees (Olea europaea L.) grown under three different water regimes (control, moderate stress and severe stress). Leaf relative water content (RWC), water potential (Ψw), transpiration rate (E), stomatal conductance (gs), maximum quantum efficiency of PSII (Fv/Fm), the contents of total chlorophyll (TCC), proline (ProC) and soluble sugars (SSC) were measured at the flowering stage during three growing seasons (2015, 2016 and 2017). ANOVA analyses showed that the effect of the water regime was predominant in all of the examined parameters, except for Fv/Fm, which was under the effect of both water regime and growing season. Impacts of variety and interactions were of lesser magnitude. Water deficit reduced E, Ψw and gs by 25%, while its effect on RWC and Fv/Fm was a decrease of about 7%; however, increases in SSC and ProC were more than 10%. Among the growing seasons, 2015 flowering displayed the lowest values for RWC, Ψw, E, gs, TCC and Fv/Fm, and the highest for ProC and SSC. Among plant varieties, no significant differences were observed. The three principal component (PC) axes accounted for 91% of total variance. PC1 was better explained by the water regime, while the growing season fitted PC3 variability. Correlation studies highlighted significant associations between most parameters. Positive relationships were found between RWC, Ψw, E, gs, Fv/Fm and TCC, while all of these parameters were negatively linked to ProC and SSC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioremediation uses microorganisms to detoxify or remove pollution. This paper reports a study to evaluate the efficacy of removing hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) using a metal-resistant bacterium. Molecular identification reveals it to be Staphylococcus gallinarum strain VIII1. This can reduce 100 mg/L of Cr(VI) after 72 h at pH 7 and 30°C. Abatement rate is increased in the presence of glucose, glycerol and copper ions. Immobilised cells in sodium alginate beads showed a high reduction efficiency compared to free cells. Bioreduction by resting and permeabilized cells confirms that this strain removes chromate ions by an enzymatic process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improving grain quality has become one of the important breeding goals in several Mediterranean countries. This study assesses the changes in the quality of durum wheat developed in Moroccan over 30 years. Six leading varieties were grown under rainfed and irrigated trials during three seasons. Vitreousness, pigment content, test weight, and thousand kernel weight were evaluated as technological traits. Protein content, ash content, and the sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) sedimentation test were analyzed as nutritional traits. Except for pigment content, which was shown to be impacted by the period of release, the combined ANOVA revealed highly significant effects of water regime and growing season on all quality attributes. The results revelated that most nutritional traits were better expressed under rainfed conditions, while a marked increase in technological traits was observed in irrigated trials. Protein and pigment contents increased significantly under rainfed conditions with an annual genetic advance of 0.104% year–1 and 0.038 ppm year–1, respectively. Vitreousness also showed an increasing trend at a rate of 0.497% year–1 under irrigated conditions, and 0.7% year–1 under rainfed ones. SDS volume exhibited a negative linear trend with the year of release in both water regimes. Contrariwise, there were no significant variations in ash content, thousand kernel weight, test weight, and thousand kernel weight between old and modern varieties. These findings suggest that during the last three decades, breeding efforts have improved the quality of durum wheat varieties in terms of protein and pigment content, and vitreousness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thanks to the efforts of our reviewers in 2022, the median time to first decision was 17 days and the median time to publication was 43 days. High-quality academic publishing is built on rigorous peer review. Regardless of whether the articles they examined were ultimately published, the editors would like to express their appreciation and thank the e of the individual author(s) and contributor(s) and not of MDPI and/or the editor(s). [Extracted from the article]

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This article presents a case study on the use of early Islamic memory in medieval Syria. It offers a close reading of a biography of al-Ḥajjāj b. Yūsuf al-Thaqafī (d. 714), the infamous tyrant of Islam, from the monumental biographical dictionary by Ibn ʿAsākir (d. 1176) Tārīkh madīnat Dimashq (History of Damascus). I argue that Ibn ʿAsākir carefully structured the biography to lend support to his own theological Ashʿarite positions on the legitimacy of an unjust ruler and the status of a sinner in Islam. This study also highlights the multi-layered meanings of the individual reports in the biography. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowledge of the key physiological and biochemical traits related to genetic progress is essential to identify yield‐limiting factors and guide future breeding strategies. The aim of this research was to determine the rate of genetic gain in grain yield and physiological and biochemical traits in Moroccan durum wheat cultivars released from 1984 to 2007. Plants were subjected to two water regimes (irrigated and rainfed) during three growing seasons in order to identify those physiological and biochemical traits associated with grain yield. Grain yield (GY) and diverse physiological and biochemical traits known to be linked to mild drought stress were evaluated at anthesis and postanthesis. Physiological traits included stomatal conductance (gs), transpiration rate (E), chlorophyll fluorescence (Fv/Fm), chlorophyll content in flag leaf (SPAD), canopy temperature depression (CTD), and relative water content (RWC), whereas biochemical characteristics were leaf proline and water‐soluble carbohydrates (WSC) content. Grain yield tends to increase linearly under irrigated conditions with a genetic gain of 1.75% yr−1, in contrast, no significant change was observed under rainfed conditions. Traits that significantly increased over time were leaf proline content, gs, E, CTD, and SPAD. The changes in GY under irrigated conditions were largely explained by increases in gs during anthesis and postanthesis, CTD at postanthesis, and by leaf proline content at anthesis. Although genetic gains in GY under rainfed conditions could not be detected, leaf proline content and E were strongly associated to GY under these conditions, suggesting their usefulness as selection criteria for GY in water‐limited environments. Core Ideas: Modern Moroccan durum wheat varieties tend to be more sensitive to drought. No genetic gain in yield was found in Moroccan durum wheat evaluated under rainfed conditions. gs and leaf proline content tend to change over time in six Moroccan durum wheat cultivars. Yield was linked to gs, canopy temperature depression, and leaf proline content under irrigated conditions. Under rainfed conditions, grain yield was related to E and leaf proline content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dopamine D2 receptor agonists, bromocriptine and cabergoline, are notable medications in the treatment of Parkinsonism, hyperprolactinemia, and hyperglycemia. An affiliation was found between the initiation of myocardial injury ailment and long term treatment with dopamine D2 agonist drugs identified with the partial activation of 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor 2 A (5-HT2A). The investigation aimed to examine the activity of sarpogrelate (a 5-HT2A receptor blocker) in reducing myocardial injury prompted by extended haul utilisation of D2 receptor agonists in rats with alloxan-induced diabetes. Methods: Both bromocriptine and cabergoline were managed independently and combined with sarpogrelate for about a month in diabetic nephropathy rats. Both tail-cuff blood pressure and the BGL were recorded weekly. For all animals, the kidney hypertrophy index, serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, alanine transaminase, and aspartate transaminase levels were measured after one month of treatment. The severity of the cardiac injury was assessed by the estimation of lactate dehydrogenase-1 (LDH-1), cardiac troponin I, and tumor necrosis factor alpha 1 (TNF1). The triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining method was used to determine the experimental myocardial infarction (MI) size. Results: Bromocriptine and cabergoline created a significant reduction in BGL, BP, and kidney hypertrophy index in diabetic nephropathy rats. Administration of bromocriptine and cabergoline, alone, or in combination with sarpogrelate fundamentally diminished the blood concentrations of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), urea, and creatinine. Bromocriptine and cabergoline alone showed a noteworthy increase in the LDH-1, Troponin I, and TNF1 levels in the serum (p < 0.05). Paradoxically, utilising bromocriptine or cabergoline with sarpogrelate treatment altogether decreased the levels of the myocardial biomarkers in the serum. A mix of bromocriptine or cabergoline with sarpogrelate diminished the level of the myocardial infarct size in the heart assessed through the TTC staining method. Conclusions: The examination demonstrated that the combined use of sarpogrelate with bromocriptine or cabergoline decreased the potential adverse effects of these two drugs on the myocardial tissues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Color indices are important quality traits that define the consumer visual acceptance and agroindustrial preferences. Little is known regarding these properties in the commercial almond cultivars grown in Morocco. This work aimed at investigating kernel color indices in five cultivars, namely, "Fournat de Brézenaud," "Tuono," "Ferragnès," "Ferraduel," and "Marcona." Color indices consisted in the following: brightness (L∗), redness index (a∗), yellowness index (b∗), chroma (C∗), hue (H∗), and metric saturation (S∗). Measurements were performed over three consecutive growing seasons (2016–2018) across five different sites from northern (Aknoul, Bni Hadifa, and Tahar Souk) and eastern (Rislane and Sidi Bouhria) Morocco. All factors (cultivar, growing season, and site) affected significantly studied color properties; however, genotype was the main variability source. Wide variabilities were found among cultivars. "Marcona" showed the highest L∗, while "Ferragnès" and "Ferraduel" displayed greater scores of a∗, b∗, C∗, and S∗. Sidi Bouhria presented the lowest L∗ but higher a∗, H∗, and S∗. Moreover, Bni Hadifa displayed higher L∗, b∗, and C∗. 2016 (drier growing season) had the highest values of most indices. Principal component analyses (PCA) discriminate all factors through the first three components: PC1 (61%, genetic component) and PC2 (30%) and PC3 (7%) which were of environmental nature since they separate sites and growing seasons, respectively. Despite environmental effects, we suggested a possible discrimination among the studied cultivars based on their kernel color indices. Drought conditions during fruit development seemed to improve kernel quality via synthesis of pigments resulting in higher a∗ and b∗. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work examined the influence of crop season, extraction system and production site on the composition of fresh olive mill wastewater collected from northern Morocco. ANOVA analysis showed that most of the traits were largely affected by the extraction system (≥60% of total variance). Comparison among extraction systems showed significant differences for all traits, except for chlorides. Three phase centrifugation system (C3) displayed the highest value of total phenols, while all the remaining traits were higher in two phase centrifugation system (C2). Concerning crop seasons, we noticed a general decrease in values of total solids, chemical oxygen demand, chlorides, C/N ratio and total aerobic mesophilic flora, from 2014 to 2016 season; in contrast, an increase in suspended solids, total kjeldahl nitrogen and proteins was detected. OMW with highest total phenols content and then more acidic were collected during 2015 season. Between production sites, Bni Frassen produced OMW with the highest values for salt and total phenols, but the lowest ones were obtained for microbiological traits. OMW from Taza were rich in total kjeldahl nitrogen and proteins. An increase in organic load indicators was observed in Bouchfaa. Principal component analysis (PCA) explained about 82% of total variability: 58%, 16% and 8% for principal component 1 (PC1), PC2 and PC3, respectively. Extraction system fitted the variability of PC1. PC2 was mainly explained by production sites, while PC3 separated crop seasons. Correlation studies showed significant relationships especially among the traits expressing organic load, while microbiological counts were largely associated to total phenols and pH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cultivated almond is an important nut crop commercially grown worldwide. The majority of research works carried out on almond fruit has been focused on chemical composition. However, fruit quality is defined by both chemical and physical characteristics, which are still not well documented. Here, we investigated gravimetrical traits of almond fruit in the five following cultivars: 'Ferraduel', 'Ferragnès', 'Fournat de Brezénaud', 'Marcona', and 'Tuono'. The present study was carried out across three different sites in northern Morocco namely Aknoul, Bni Hadifa and Tahar Souk and over two harvest seasons (2015 and 2016). Gravimetrical measurements consisted in: In-hull weight, nut weight, kernel weight, hull percentage, shelling percentage, true density, bulk density, and porosity. The outcomes of ANOVA demonstrated that cultivar, site, harvest season, and their interactions affected significantly almost gravimetrical traits. In fact, hull percentage, kernel bulk density, and both nut true and bulk densities were mainly under genotypic dependency, while harvest season (climatic factor) was the main variability source in kernel weight. Furthermore, site (edaphic factor) was the most important in determining in-hull weight, nut weight, and kernel true density, while shelling percentage, and kernel and nut porosities were controlled jointly by genetic and edaphic factors. Wide variabilities were found between cultivars, sites, and harvest seasons for almost parameters as demonstrated by LSD's test. Almond kernels from our cultivars were very small (cv. 'Tuono'), small (cvs. 'Ferraduel', 'Ferragnès', and 'Marcona'), and medium (cv. 'Fournat de Brézenaud'). Furthermore, corresponding nuts were hard (cvs. 'Fournat d Brézenaud' and 'Tuono') to very hard shelled (cvs. 'Ferraduel', 'Ferragnès', and 'Marcona'). Among sites, fruits harvested from Bni Hadifa performed better in terms of in-hull weight, nut weight, and kernel weight. Whereas, Tahar Souk had the greatest values of hull percentage and shelling percentage. Principal component analysis (PCA) allowed a good discrimination of cultivars, sites, and harvest seasons. The first component was of genetic order along which cultivars were separated, while the second and the third components exerted together an environmental control since they separated sites and harvest seasons, respectively. Significant correlations were highlighted among studied characteristics. The most important ones were modeled through simple regressions and therefore they can be used to predict each other. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fresh olive oil mill wastewaters (OMW) were collected in northern Morocco from industrial mills operating with three extraction systems (two [C2] and three-phase [C3] centrifugation decanters and super-pressure system [SP]) during the 2017 growing season. Physicochemical and microbiological characteristics of these effluents were examined. OMW phenolic extracts were prepared and their antibacterial and antioxidant activities were evaluated. Moreover, the improvement of virgin olive oil stability with the addition of OMW phenolic extracts (at 100, 300 and 500 ppm) was investigated. Results from this work confirmed the pollutant load of these effluents characterised by an acidic pH, strong organic content, and considerable amounts of mineral matter. Concerning the microbiological counts, yeasts and moulds were the most abundant. Among the extraction system, C2 displayed OMW with the high levels for all measured parameters, except for the total phenols that were more abundant in C3. For the in vitro bioassays, OMW phenolic extracts showed a promising antibacterial activity against the two studied bacteria. In fact, C2 extract was the most active for inhibiting the bacteria growth, while Escherichia coli (Gram-) was more resistant to bactericidal phenols than Listeria innocua (Gram+). Findings from DPPH and FRAP tests showed a good antiradical potential and an important reducing power capacity and were both concentration-dependent. For the two tests, antioxidant activity of OMW phenolic extracts from C2 was also the most important. The addition of phenolic extracts to virgin olive oil, stocked at 60°C, resulted in lower records for peroxide value, K232 and K270 compared to the control, indicating a good protective effect against oil oxidation. The great antioxidant effect of OMW extracts was at 500 ppm, like that of ascorbic acid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Drought is one of the main environmental factors affecting grain yield and plant architecture in durum wheat. The present work was conducted to evaluate the contribution of morphological traits above flag leaf node on grain yield of six Moroccan durum wheat varieties released between 1984 and 2007 and grown under two water regimes (irrigated and rainfed) during the 2015–2016 crop season. The following morphological traits were measured at anthesis: Flag leaf length (FLL), flag leaf area (FLA), peduncle length (PL), spike length (SL), spike area (SA), and green leaf area (GLA). Days from sowing to anthesis (DSA) and grain-filling period (GFP) were recorded. In addition, grain yield per plant (GYP) was evaluated at maturity. Analysis of variance showed the greater effect of water stress in explaining total variability of the studied traits. Mean comparisons indicated that water deficit significantly affected GYP and all morphological traits; it shortened DSA and GFP by 4 and 7 days, respectively. Moreover, GYP, DSA, and GFP increased in modern varieties. In contrast, FLL, FLA, and PL were reduced from old to modern varieties. Under irrigated conditions, correlation studies revealed that GYP was positively associated to GLA. Regarding the rainfed trial, GYP was positively correlated to FLL. Additionally, negative relationships were found between GYP and DSA in both water regimes. Stepwise regression highlighted the relative importance of each morphological traits on the stress susceptibility index, FLL was the most consistent trait entered the model followed by PL and FLA. In this study, some morphological traits above flag leaf node proved to be useful tools to select for grain yield in water-limited environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated geometrical traits of almond nuts and its kernels in five major commercial almond cultivars: 'Ferraduel', 'Ferragnès', 'Fournat de Brézenaud', 'Marcona', and 'Tuono' at initial moisture content. Three different environments of northern Morocco, namely Aknoul, Bni Hadifa, and Tahar Souk, were considered for sampling. Geometrical determinations were performed both in nuts and kernels, and consisted of the nine following parameters: length (L), width (W), thickness (T), arithmetic mean diameter (Da), geometric mean diameter (Dg), sphericity (Φ), volume (V), surface area (Sa) and projected area (Pa). ANOVA analyses showed that site, cultivar, and their interaction affected significantly all the parameters studied. L and Φ were genetically controlled, while T was environment-dependent for both nuts and kernels as well as Dg, V, Sa, Pa only for nuts. The rest of traits were equally determined by genotypic and environmental effects. Principal component analysis (PCA) explained about 97% and 89% of total variability in almond nuts and kernels, respectively and allowed a good discrimination among sites and cultivars. Among sites, Bni Hadifa favored a better expression of almost investigated traits while for cultivars; 'Marcona'' exhibited the highest scores for the majority of studied traits. Multiple regression models were developed for Da, Dg, Φ, V, Sa, Pa as function of the three axial dimensions (L, W, T). For almond nuts, Dg, V, and Sa depended mainly on W. Moreover, Φ determined equally by L and T, while Da and Pa were mostly dependent on L. As regards of almond kernels, L was the most consistent trait that determined variation in Da, Dg, Φ, V, Sa, and Pa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Almond [Prunus dulcis(Mill.) D.A. Webb] is one of the most important nut crops worldwide. It requires chilling during winter to break dormancy and develop fruiting buds. However, late winter chilling and early spring frosts may damage the reproductive tissues leading to productivity reduction. In the present work, we evaluated the frost susceptibility by means of chlorophyll fluorescence in flower buds of almonds cultivated in two different sites in Morocco: Aknoul in the north and Sidi Bouhria in the east. Five widely grown almond cultivars, namely Marcona, Fournat de Brézenaud, Ferragnès, Ferraduel, and Tuono, were involved in this study. Flower buds were incubated in temperatures of –3, –2, –1, 0, and 25 °C during 24 h and thereafter the Fv/Fm ratio was measured at the ovary zone. Combined analysis of variance showed that cultivar was the major source of variability, while site and cultivar by site interaction effects were of lesser extent and explained together less than 20%. At 25 °C, all cultivars displayed higher scores of Fv/Fm ratio. By decreasing temperature of incubation, this ratio decreased proportionally. Kinetics of chlorophyll fluorescence in response to the frost treatment followed two patterns: A linear decrease translated by frost susceptibility for late-flowering cultivars Ferragnès and Ferraduel, and quadratic curve with an inflection point at –1 °C indicating a chilling tolerance for Tuono and the early-flowering cultivars Marcona and Fournat de Brézenaud. However, Ferragnès and Ferraduel (with later flowering date) are not likely to be affected by low temperatures at the end of spring when there is no risk of frost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]