Toxigenic fungi and ochratoxin A associated to nuts in Saudi Arabia

Erectile dysfunction improvement: pistachio or placebo effect

Pecan production increased by larger vegetation-free area surrounding the tree

Vegetation control with herbicides is a common practice in pecan [Carya illinoinensis (Wangenh.) K. Koch] orchards that benefits both non-bearing and bearing trees. However; the appropriate size for the vegetation-free area surrounding bearing trees had not been resolved. Vegetation-free circles centered on the Tree 0; 0.9; 1.8; 3.7; and 7.3 m in diameter were established […]

Using almond (Prunus amygdalus L.) shell as a bio-waste resource in wood based composite

In this research; the suitability of almond shell as a bio-waste resource in wood based composite manufacturing was investigated. Particleboards containing different almond shell particle rations were made using urea-formaldehyde (UF) resin. Some chemical properties of almond shell (holocellulose; a cellulose; lignin and ash contents; alcohol-benzene solubility; 1% NaOH solubility; hot and cold water solubility); […]

Effect of harvesting time on nut quality of pistachio (Pistacia vera L.) cultivars

The appropriate time of harvest is one of the most important factors affecting the quality of pistachio. Cultivars ‘Ahmad-Aghaii’; ‘Kaleh-Ghoochi’; ‘Ohadi’ and ‘Badami-Zarand’ were evaluated for qualitative indices of nut over a period of four years from 2001 to 2004. Nut samples were collected during eight successive weeks from 23 August to 11 October. Splitting; […]

Effect of phytochemical concentrations on biological activities of Cranberry extracts.

Abstract: Plants of cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) furnish edible fruits and derivates that have been used for the prevention and treatment of urinary tract infections. In the present work we compare two commercial extracts that contain proanthocyanins (PACs) at 4 percent and 20 percent for antimicrobial; antiproliferative; antiradical and protective properties against oxidative stress on cell […]

Review on advanced of solar assisted chemical heat pump dryer for agriculture produce

Over the past three decades there has been nearly exponential growth in drying R&D on a global scale. Improving of the drying operation to save energy; improve product quality as well as reduce environmental effect remained as the main objectives of any development of drying system. A solar assisted chemical heat pump dryer is a […]

Molecular characterization and toxigenic profile of Aspergillus section Nigri populations isolated from the main grape-growing regions in Argentina.

AIMS: The objective of this study was to evaluate the biodiversity of Aspergillus section Nigri populations from Argentinean vineyards by morphological; toxigenic and AFLP analysis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Five hundred and thirty-eight strains were isolated from grapes during 2006/07 and 2007/08 vintages. The morphological identification and toxigenic profile for all strains isolated were performed. Eighty-eight […]

Current guidelines for nut consumption are achievable and sustainable: a hazelnut intervention.

Abstract: Nuts are known for their hypocholesterolaemic properties; however; to achieve optimal health benefits; nuts must be consumed regularly and in sufficient quantity. It is therefore important to assess the acceptability of regular consumption of nuts. The present study examined the long-term effects of hazelnut consumption in three different forms on 'desire to consume' and […]

The effectiveness of dried cranberries (Vaccinium macrocarpon) in men with lower urinary tract symptoms

Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) are a common condition in older men. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) powder in men at risk of prostate disease with LUTS; elevated prostate-specific antigen (PSA); negative prostate biopsy and clinically confirmed chronic non-bacterial prostatitis. Forty-two participants received […]