Real Power Loss Reduction by Melon Fly Optimization and Spontaneous Process Algorithm's

Abstract In this work Melon Fly Optimization (MFO) Algorithm and Spontaneous Process Algorithm (SPA) is designed to reduce the Real power loss, voltage stability enhancement and reducing the Voltage deviation. In this work real power loss measured and how much loss has been reduced is also identified by suitable comparison with standard algorithms. In this society from common consumer to industry needs better quality of power continuously and constantly without much variation. One way to improve the quality of the power is to reduce the power loss. Also reduction of power loss will improve the economic conditions of the nation indirectly and it improves the productivity of the nation with any hurdles. Around the world all nations sequentially identifying the method to reduce the power loss in the transmission and subsequently it improve the quality of power. MFO algorithm has been formed based on the innate events of Melon fly. Due their very excellent eyesight and mutual supportive behaviour Melon fly will find the food without difficulty. By smell and vision the Melon fly will move to the best location form the current location. In the preliminary level Melon flies will search the food in multiple directions and they may be far away from the food source, it like scattering in the plane. Then Spontaneous Process Algorithm (SPA) is designed to solve the optimal reactive power problem Formulation of the projected algorithm is done by imitating the process done during nuclear fission and fusion. Every item of a nucleus attribute symbolizes each solution variable. Sequence of operators directs the nucleus and in order to avoid the local optimum it will imitate the dissimilar condition of reaction. In the exploration space nucleus symbolizes the variables and potential solution. Levy flight has been intermingled in the procedure to enhance the diversification and intensification in the search. Evaluation of validity of the Melon Fly Optimization (MFO) Algorithm and Spontaneous Process Algorithm (SPA) is done in IEEE 30-bus system by considering voltage stability (L-index) and also devoid of L-index criterion. Minimization of voltage deviation, voltage stability enhancement and power loss minimization has been achieved.

Molecular cloning and functional characterization of CmFT (FLOWERING LOCUS T) from Cucumis melo L.

CmFT homologous gene in muskmelon was obtained by homologous cloning, introducing CmFT gene by Agrobacteriummediated transformation. The results of subcellular localization showed that CmFT protein was expressed in cytoplasm and nucleus. qRTPCR results showed that the expression levels of AtLFY, AtFT, AtCO, AtFLC, AtSOC1 and AtAP1 were upregulated in the 35S::MeFT Arabidopsis line. The CmFT gene was introduced into wild-type Arabidopsis by Agrobacterium-mediated transformation, and the growth status of T2 transgenic Arabidopsis thaliana and wild-type A. thaliana was observed. The results showed that wild-type Arabidopsis began to bolt on the 25th day after sowing, we can initially confirm that the FT gene of melon can promote the early flowering of melon in the growth and development of melon.

Studies of dietary phytoestrogen from momordica charantia Linn. Seeds / Estudios de fitoestrógeno en la dieta a partir de semillas de momordica charantia Linn

Phytoestrogens are secondary plant metabolites produced by plants that are similar in structure of estrogen. Human consumption of these compounds has been associated with many health benefits. In this study, we investigated the potential phytoestrogen content of dietary Momordica charantia Linn. (Bitter melon) seeds were collected from the Hyderabad-Karnataka regions of India. A phenolic dietary phytoestrogen has been isolated from the crude ethanol extract of Bitter melonseeds. After preparative HPLC whitish amorphous compound was yielded. The HPLC purified compound is subjected to spectral analysis using IR, NMR and MS. The spectral data revealed that the phenolphthalein a phytoestrogenic molecule is present in the ethanol extract of dietary Bitter melonseeds.

Los fitoestrógenos son metabolitos vegetales secundarios, producidos por plantas que tienen una estructura similar al estrógeno. El consumo humano de estos compuestos se ha asociado con muchos beneficios para la salud. En este estudio, investigamos el contenido potencial de fitoestrógenos de Momordica charantia Linn en la dieta. Se recolectaron semillas (melón amargo) de las regiones de Hyderabad-Karnataka de la India. Se ha aislado un fitoestrógeno dietético fenólico del extracto de etanol crudo de semillas de melón amargo. Después de HPLC preparativa, se obtuvo un compuesto amorfo blanquecino. El compuesto purificado por HPLC se somete a análisis espectral usando IR, NMR y MS. Los datos espectrales revelaron que la fenolftaleína, una molécula fitoestrogénica, está presente en el extracto etanólico de las semillas de melón amargo en la dieta.

Phytochemical Composition and in vitro Antioxidant Activity of Golden Melon (Cucumis melo L.) Seeds for Functional Food Application

Aim:Golden melon (Cucumis melo)is an annual herbaceous plant belonging to the family of Cucurbitaceae (Cucurbit). This study was carried out to evaluate the phytochemical composition and in vitroantioxidant activity of golden melon seed extract.Place and Duration of Study:The study was carried out between a period of July and August 2017 at Baking Milling Division, Federal Institute of Industrial Research Oshodi Nigeria. Methodology:The crude methanolic extracts of the seed were tested for phytochemical and antioxidant activities according to standard analytical procedure. The antioxidant potential of the seed extracts was examined using different assays by determining total phenolic content,total flavonoid content, total antioxidant capacity. The free radicalscavenging activities of the extract such as 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity, in vitrolipid peroxidation, and nitric oxide (NO) scavenging assay weredetermined spectrophotometrically. Results:The phytochemical screening of the seed extracts revealed the presence of some secondary metabolites such as alkaloids, phenolic, steroids, flavonoids, terpenoids and cardiac glycosides. The total phenolic content of extract was found to be 29.39mg/100g while the amount of total flavonoid content was 20.67mg/100g. Scavenging ability was observed to increase in proportion to concentration for all the scavenging assays and at the highest concentrationof100μg/ml.Total antioxidant capacity assay showed 19.44mg per 100 g. This high scavenging ability in the seed extracts may be attributed to the presence of phenolic and flavonoids compounds in the extract. The DPPH free radical scavenging activity of 100μg/ml Cucumis meloextract was 75.20% ± 0.72 while the reference standard (Ascorbic acid) was 83.24% ±0.31. Lipid peroxidation inhibition ability of 100μg/ml Cucumis meloextract was 87.18% ± 0.16 while the standard (ascorbic acid) was 94.96%± 0.16 at the same concentration. Results obtained from this study showed that the nitric oxide scavenging ability of the extract was 80.50%±0.63 while the standard antioxidant was 85.94% ± 0.54. Conclusion:In all the assays, Cucumis meloextract showed maximum percentage of antioxidant potentials at 100μg/ml. Additionally, golden melon seed possess appreciable amount of phenols and high antioxidant properties which could be explored and incorporated in functional food applications particularly in baked products

Minerals and phytochemical analysis of bitter melon fruits and its components in some indigenous and exotic cultivars / Análise fitoquímica e de minerais de frutos de melão amargo e seus componentes em alguns cultivares indígenas e exóticos

The present study was designed to compare the mineral contents and phytochemicals in fruits of some indigenous and exoticbitter melon cultivars. Skin, flesh, seeds and whole fruit of each cultivar were dried at room temperature and ground to fine powder which was packed separately in air-tight plastic jars for analysis. The data revealed that all the cultivars possessed appreciable amount of minerals. Indigenous cultivars possessed higher mineral contents than the exotic cultivars. Black King was found to be desirable cultivar with high amount of potassium, phosphorous, magnesium, calcium, iron and zinc with values of 258.83, 92.92, 46.74, 48.42, 3.90 and 1.78 mg/100g, respectively. Among fruit parts, flesh portion was rich in potassium, phosphorous, magnesium, sodium and calcium followed by skin and seed. The seeds possessed relatively high amount of iron (4.44 mg/100g) and zinc (2.80 mg/100g). On the whole, flesh part of Black King is predominated in mineral profile while least quantity was observed in the seeds of Noor. All the cultivars possessed same types of phytochemicals although may vary in their abundance. Phenols, flavanoids, saponins and ascorbic acid were present in abundance in skin and flesh while seeds were found rich in alkaloids and glycoalkaloid. The variations in the chemical composition in fruit and components due to changes in agro-climatic conditions suggest that there is scope for developing cultivars to be grown in wide range of agronomic, climatic and geographic conditions with no effect on its nutrient and phytochemical profile.

O presente estudo foi projetado para comparar os teores de minerais e fitoquímicos em frutos de alguns cultivares indígenas e exóticos de melão amargo. Casca, polpa, sementes e frutos inteiros de cada cultivar foram secos à temperatura ambiente e moídos até obter-se um pó fino que foi embalado separadamente em frascos de plástico hermeticamente fechados para análise. Os dados revelaram que todos os cultivares possuíam quantidade apreciável de minerais. Cultivares indígenas possuíam maior conteúdo mineral que os cultivares exóticos. Descobriu-se que o Black King foi o cultivar desejável com alta quantidade de potássio, fósforo, magnésio, cálcio, ferro e zinco com valores de 258.83, 92.92, 46.74, 48.42, 3.90 e 1.78 mg/100g, respectivamente. Entre as partes das frutas, a polpa era mais rica em potássio, fósforo, magnésio, sódio e cálcio, seguida pela casca e pela semente. As sementes possuíam quantidades relativamente elevadas de ferro (4.44 mg/100g) e zinco (2.80 mg/100g). No geral, na polpa do Black King predomina o perfil mineral, enquanto uma menor quantidade foi observada nas sementes de Noor. Todos os cultivares possuíam os mesmos tipos de fitoquímicos, embora possam variar em sua abundância. Fenóis, flavonóides, saponinas e ácido ascórbico estavam presentes em abundância na casca e na polpa enquanto as sementes eram ricas em alcalóides e glicoalcalóides. As variações na composição química de frutos e componentes devido a mudanças nas condições agroclimáticas sugerem que há espaço para o desenvolvimento de cultivares a serem cultivadas em ampla escala de condições agronômicas, climáticas e geográficas, sem efeito no seu perfil nutricional e fitoquímico.

Comparison of antioxidant capacity and α -glucosidase inhibitory activity between bitter melon (Momordica charanti) fruit and leaf extract

Objective: To compare the physiologically active substances, antioxidant and antidiabetic activities in vitro of bitter melon fruit and leaf extract. Methods: Total polyphenol and flavonoid contents were measured using spectrophotometrically by gallic acid and catechin standard curves, respectively. The radical-scavenging potential of bitter melon fruit and leaf extract were measured by DPPH, ABTS and hydroxyl radical scavenging ability and reducing power and anti-diabetic ability was evaluated by α -glucosidase activity. Results: It was confirmed that the bitter melon leaf contained more total polyphenols and flavonoids than bitter melon fruits. Bitter melon leaf extract contained 2.8-fold and 4.9-fold higher total polyphenols and flavonoids than bitter melon fruits, respectively. The DPPH radical scavenging activity of bitter melon leaf was 5.81- and 5.70-fold higher than that of the bitter melon frui, based on 200 μg/mL and 400 μg/mL of the extract, respectively. In ABTS, hydroxyl radical scavenging ability and reducing power, the bitter melon leaf extract all showed higher antioxidant capacity than the bitter melon fruit. Bitter melon fruit showed 2.52- and 2.63-fold higher α -glucosidase inhibitory activity than bitter melon leaf extract at 200 μg/mL and 400 μg/mL, respectively. Conclusions: Based on our results, bitter melon may improve antidiabetic effects by upreguating α -glycosidase activity. Even, bitter melon leaf extract shows higher antioxidant potential than its fruit but bitter melon leaf extract does not show higher α -glucosidase inhibitory potential than bitter melon fruit. The overall results support that bitter melon fruit and leaf may have specific target effects on antidiabetic and antioxidant, respectively.

Comparison of antioxidant capacity and α-glucosidase inhibitory activity betweenbitter melon (Momordica charanti) fruit and leaf extract

Objective: To compare the physiologically active substances, antioxidant and antidiabetic activities in vitro of bitter melon fruit and leaf extract. Methods: Total polyphenol and flavonoid contents were measured using spectrophotometrically by gallic acid and catechin standard curves, respectively. The radical-scavenging potential of bitter melon fruit and leaf extract were measured by DPPH, ABTS and hydroxyl radical scavenging ability and reducing power and anti-diabetic ability was evaluated by α-glucosidase activity. Results: It was confirmed that the bitter melon leaf contained more total polyphenols and flavonoids than bitter melon fruits. Bitter melon leaf extract contained 2.8-fold and 4.9-fold higher total polyphenols and flavonoids than bitter melon fruits, respectively. The DPPH radical scavenging activity of bitter melon leaf was 5.81- and 5.70-fold higher than that of the bitter melon frui, based on 200 μg/mL and 400 μg/mL of the extract, respectively. In ABTS, hydroxyl radical scavenging ability and reducing power, the bitter melon leaf extract all showed higher antioxidant capacity than the bitter melon fruit. Bitter melon fruit showed 2.52- and 2.63-fold higher α-glucosidase inhibitory activity than bitter melon leaf extract at 200 μg/mL and 400 μg/mL, respectively.Conclusions: Based on our results, bitter melon may improve antidiabetic effects by upreguating α-glycosidase activity. Even, bitter melon leaf extract shows higher antioxidant potential than its fruit but bitter melon leaf extract does not show higher α-glucosidase inhibitory potential than bitter melon fruit. The overall results support that bitter melon fruit and leaf may have specific target effects on antidiabetic and antioxidant, respectively.

Phenolic profile and antioxidant activity from peels and seeds of melon (Cucumis melo L. var. reticulatus) and their antiproliferative effect in cancer cells

Melon (Cucumis melo L.) has high economic value and in recent years, its production has increased; however, part of the fruit is wasted. Usually, inedible parts such as peel and seeds are discarded during processing and consumption. Extracts of melon residues were prepared and their phenolic compounds, antioxidants and antiproliferative activities were evaluated. Total phenolic compounds were found in hydroethanolic, hydromethanolic, and aqueous extracts, especially for melon peel (1.016 mg gallic acid equivalent/100 g). Flavonoids total content found for melon peel aqueous extract was 262 µg of catechin equivalent (CA)/100 g. In all extracts of melon peel significant amounts of gallic acid, catechin, and eugenol were found. For total antioxidant capacity, reported as ascorbic acid equivalent, the hydroethanolic and hydromethanolic extracts in peels and hydromethanolic in seeds were 89, 74, and 83 mg/g, respectively. Different extracts of melon showed iron and copper ions chelating activity at different concentrations, especially melon peel aqueous extract, reaching values of 61% for iron and 84% for copper. The hydroethanolic extract of melon peel presented a significant ability for hydroxyl radicals scavenging (68%). To assess the antiproliferative potential in human cancer cell lines, such as kidney carcinoma, colorectal carcinoma, cervical adenocarcinoma and cervical carcinoma, MTT assay was performed. The proliferation was inhibited by 20-85% at extracts concentrations of 0.1-1.0 mg/mL in all cancer cell lines. The results suggest that melon residues extracts display a high antioxidant activity in in vitro assays and have effective biological activity against the growth of human tumor cells.

Clinical observation of Cervus and Cucumis Polypeptide for Injection in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis / 中国生化药物杂志

Objective To investigate and analyze the efficacy of Cervus and Cucumis Polypeptide for Injection in the treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee. Methods 100 patients with osteoarthritis of knee joint treated in Xinchang people's hospital from February 2015 to May 2017 were selected and randomly divided into the control group and the experimental group, with 50 patients in each group. The control group were treated with oral glucosamine capsules in the treatment of the experimental group, Cervus and Cucumis Polypeptide for Injection palliative treatment, 250 mL saline plus 25g guguatiquwu, oral Nimeilishu capsule. The treatment time of the 2 groups was one month. The therapeutic effects of the experimental group and the control group were compared and analyzed. Results After the corresponding treatment, 4 patients in the experimental group were invalid, 20 cases were effective, and 26 cases were effective. In the control group, 13 patients were ineffective. The effective rate of the experimental group was 92％, which was significantly higher than that of the control group (P<0.05). The IL-1 of the knee joint fluid in the experimental group was (8.01±1.72), and the IL-1 of the knee fluid in the control group was (7.08±0.97). The level of IL-1 in the knee joint fluid of the experimental group was significantly higher than that of the control group, with statistical difference (P<0.05). Conclusion Cervus and Cucumis Polypeptide for Injection is effective in the treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee, and can significantly improve the efficiency of treatment,.

Carissa congesta Wight and Benincasa hispida (Thunb.) Cogn. as budding immunomodulatory agents.

Carissa congesta and Benincasa hispida are well-known medicinally important plants associated with diabetes, inflammation, protozal infections and cancer. Here, we emphasized up on the immunomodulatory potential of these plants as the source of lupeol, β-sitosterol and ursolic acid. Petroleum ether extracts of C. congesta roots and B. hispida seeds were subjected to acute toxicity studies. They were screened for its immunomodulatory prospective in rats by Haemagglutination Antibody (HA) titre and Delayed-Type Hypersensitivity (DTH) response using Sheep Red Blood Cells (SRBCs of-0.5×109) as antigens. Carbon Clearance test (Phagocytic Index) was estimated by Indian ink suspension. Complete Freund’s Adjuvant (CFA) induced arthritis model interpretation was done by paw edema, kene joint erosion (transverse section), body weights, arthritic index and biochemical levels (RBC, WBC and Hb levels). Both the extracts were found to be therapeutically safe up to 5000 mg/kg. Dosage of 100 mg/kg was not satisfactory; and 500 and 250 mg/kg showed significant immunostimmulation (HA Titre) and immunosuppression (DTH response, 48 h). Benincasa hispida seed and Carissa congesta root extracts showed phagocytic Index of 0.0163±0.003, 0.0145±0.003 and 0.0183±0.003, 0.0176±0.003 at 250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg, respectively. CFA model revealed that the B. hispida seed and C. congesta root extracts decreased paw volume, knee joint erosion, increased body weights and biochemical parameters with an arthritic index of 1.31±0.12, 1.44±0.15 and 1. 16±0.09, 1.36±0.13 at 250 mg/kg and 500 mg, respectively. The results were interpreted by One-way ANOVA followed by Dunnett test. Extracts showed relevance as promising immunostimulators as compared to control.

Effects of sudden melon intake on ruminal parameters of non-adapted sheep / Efeitos da ingestão súbita de melão sobre os parâmetros ruminais de ovinos não adaptados

This study evaluated the effects of varying amounts of melon with high sugar content offered to sheep without prior melon experience and that were not adapted to consuming it. We used 12 eight-month-old, rumen-cannulated crossbred sheep weighing 25 kg each. The animals received a base diet of roughage, and then half were randomly selected to have 25% of their diet replaced with melon (G25%) and the other half had 75% of their diet replaced with melon (75%). Ruminal fluid was collected before administration of melon and at 0, 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 h after the administration of the fruit. Sheep from the G25% group presented volatile fatty acid ruminal acidosis (sub-acute) between 3 and 6 h after consumption. This acidosis was characterized by a rumen pH slightly lower than 5.6, increased discrete L-lactic acid content, and increased redox potential (RP) and methylene blue redox (MBR) time of the ruminal fluid. The G75% group presented lactic ruminal acidosis at T6h, characterized by a rumen pH lower than 5.0, high lactate-L content, increased RP and MBR time, and increased ruminal fluid osmolarity. Therefore, offering large amounts of melon (75% of dry matter (DM)) is not recommended but 25% of DM of this fruit can be used safely.

O presente estudo avaliou o efeito da adição à dieta de duas diferentes quantidades de melão com alto teor de açucares oferecidos subitamente à ovinos não adaptados. Foram utilizados 12 ovinos mestiços da raça Santa Inês, com 8 meses de idade e pesando cerca der 25 kg providos de cânula ruminal. Os animais recebiam dieta à base de volumoso e foram aleatoriamente divididos em dois grupos iguais que receberam 25 ou 75% de adição de melão picado à dieta. Foram coletadas amostras de conteúdo ruminal nos momentos zero e após 3, 6, 12, 18, e 24 horas da administração do melão. Ovinos do grupo G25% apresentaram acidose por ácido graxo voláteis (subaguda) entre 3 e 6 horas, caracterizada por pH ruminal ligeiramente abaixo de 5,6, aumento discreto na concentração de ácido láctico L e aumento do potencial redox (PR) e tempo de redução do azul de metileno (TRAM) do fluido ruminal. O grupo G75% apresentou acidose láctica ruminal com pH menor que 5,0, alta concentração de Lactato-L e aumento do PR e TRAM e da osmolaridade ruminal. Em conclusão, o oferecimento de grandes quantidades de melão (75% da MS) não é recomendado, mas 25% da MS desta fruta pode ser utilizada na dieta de ovinos com segurança.

Effect of electroacupuncture combined with acupoint injection of deer melon polypeptide on bone morphogenetic protein and rheumatoid factor in rheumatoid arthritis / 国际中医中药杂志

ObjectiveTo detect the effect of electroacupuncture combined with acupoint injection of deer melon polypeptide on the bone morpho-genetic protein synovial, BMPs and serum rheumatoid factor IgA-RF, IgM-RF.MethodsA total of 246 patients with Rheumatoid arthritis were divided randomly into control group and combined treatment group, 123 patients in each group. The control group received the treatment of electro-acupuncture, drug and Ultrashort wave therapy, and the combined treatment group continue to receive acupoint injection of deer melon polypeptide after 30 minutes when the treatment of control group was completed. Both groups were treated for 2 weeks. The expression of BMPs, MMP-1 and the ESR, serum rheumatoid factor IgA-RF, IgM-RF were detected. The morning stiffness time, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) and visual analogue scale (VAS) were recorded for outcome assessment.ResultsCompared with control group after treatment, the positive expression rates of ESR (8.79 ±1.61 mm/hvs.12.41 ± 2.57 mm/h,t=3.654), IgM-RF (22.38% ± 5.45%vs.39.57% ± 6.18%,t=2.365), IgA RF (32.84% ± 6.57%vs.49.84% ± 4.20%,t=2.574) in the combined treatment group significantly decreased. Compared with the control group, the expression of BMPs (15.43 ± 2.94vs.7.22 ± 1.52,t=3.914) in the combined treatment group significantly increased, while MMP-1 (8.01% ± 1.54%vs. 15.34% ± 2.47%,t=2.015) in the combined treatment group significantly decreased (P<0.05). Compared with control group, the outcomes VAS (3.37 ± 0.35 vs.5.75 ± 0.39, t=3.251), WOMAC (22.36 ± 3.49vs.30.50 ± 4.11,t=4.021), and morning stiffness (34.32 ± 5.57 minvs. 49.84 ± 4.20 min,t=3.914) in the combined treatment group significantly decreased (P<0.05). The total effect rate (82.11%vs. 71.55%,χ2=12.764) of combined treatment group was significantly higher than control group (P<0.05).Conclusion Electroacupuncture combined with acupoint injection of deer and melon peptide can improve effect rate.

Chemical constituents of ethyl acetate fraction from seed melon (Citrulluslanatus ssp. vulgaris var. megalaspermus) / 中国中药杂志

In this paper, the chemical composition of ethyl acetate parts of seed melon were studied by using ethanol re-flux method, extraction method, and isolated by column chromatography oversilica gel and Sephadex LH-20 and HPLC. The structures of the separated compounds were identified by physical-chemical methods and spectral data such as MS, ¹H-NMR, ¹³C-NMR, etc. 12 compounds were got from the plant including one new compound, 4-hydroxymet-hyl-2-methoxyphenyl 1-O-β-D-[6'-O-(4″-hydroxybenzoyl)-glucopyranoside] (1) and 11 known compounds, uracil (2), thymine (3), 2'-deoxyuridine (4), 7,8-dimethylalloxazine (5), indole-3-carboxylic acid (6), β-adenosine (7), 4-hydroxybenzoic acid (8), p-coumaric acid (9), cucumegastigmanesⅠ (10), 3'-methoxyl-quercetin-7-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (11) and 3,3'-dimethyloxy-4,4'-dihydroxy-9,9'-monoepoxy lignan (12).

Bitter melon: a panacea for inflammation and cancer / 中国天然药物

Nature is a rich source of medicinal plants and their products that are useful for treatment of various diseases and disorders. Momordica charantia, commonly known as bitter melon or bitter gourd, is one of such plants known for its biological activities used in traditional system of medicines. This plant is cultivated in all over the world, including tropical areas of Asia, Amazon, east Africa, and the Caribbean and used as a vegetable as well as folk medicine. All parts of the plant, including the fruit, are commonly consumed and cooked with different vegetables, stir-fried, stuffed or used in small quantities in soups or beans to give a slightly bitter flavor and taste. The plant is reported to possess anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, anti-bacterial, anti-obesity, and immunomodulatory activities. The plant extract inhibits cancer cell growth by inducing apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, autophagy and inhibiting cancer stem cells. The plant is rich in bioactive chemical constituents like cucurbitane type triterpenoids, triterpene glycosides, phenolic acids, flavonoids, essential oils, saponins, fatty acids, and proteins. Some of the isolated compounds (Kuguacin J, Karaviloside XI, Kuguaglycoside C, Momordicoside Q-U, Charantin, α-eleostearic acid) and proteins (α-Momorcharin, RNase MC2, MAP30) possess potent biological activity. In the present review, we are summarizing the anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer activities of Momordica charantia along with a short account of important chemical constituents, providing a basis for establishing detail biological activities of the plant and developing novel drug molecules based on the active chemical constituents.

Honey bees (Apis mellifera) visiting flowers of yellow melon (Cucumis melo) using different number of hives / Visita de abelhas melíferas (Apis mellifera) em flores de melão amarelo (Cucumis melo) usando diferente número de colmeias

Honey bees (Apis mellifera) pollinate melon (Cucumis melo) and improve production and quality of fruits. However, little is known about bee behavior and number of hives required. The aims of this study were to compare bees visiting flowers in crop areas with different number of hives (0, 1, 2, and 3), and to evaluate which is the best number. Flowers were observed (n=78) from 5 am to 6 pm, for five consecutive days, in four experimental areas (0.5ha each). Comparisons were made for male (MF) and hermaphrodite (HF) flowers, number of hives and fruit production. The HF were always more visited than MF. Most comparisons made for three hives presented significant differences, since visits increased drastically, competition among bees for floral resources became stronger and reduced the production of commercial fruit (93.4%). On the other hand, the highest percentage of commercial fruit was obtained (99%) with two hives, setting the ideal number of hives as four hives ha-1.

As abelhas melíferas (Apis mellifera) polinizam o melão (Cucumis melo) e melhoram a produção e qualidade dos frutos. Entretanto, pouco é conhecido sobre seu comportamento e o número de colmeias necessário. Os objetivos deste trabalho foram comparar a visitação das abelhas nas flores em áreas de cultivo com diferente número de colmeias (0,1, 2 e 3) e avaliar a produção de frutos em cada situação. Nas quatro áreas experimentais (0,5 ha cada), foram observadas flores (n=78), de 5 às 18h, por cinco dias consecutivos. Foram realizadas comparações para as flores masculinas (FM) e hermafroditas (FH), número de colmeias e produção de frutos. Os resultados mostraram que sempre as FH foram mais visitadas que as FM. A maioria das comparações feitas para três colmeias apresentaram diferenças significativas, já que as visitas aumentaram drasticamente. Provavelmente, a competição entre as abelhas pelos recursos florais foi maior e reduziu a produção de frutos comerciais (93,4%). Por outro lado, com duas colmeias, obteve-se a maior porcentagem de frutos comerciais (99%), indicando que o número ideal é de quatro colmeias ha-1.

Avaliação hemogasométrica, bioquímica e hematológica de ovinos suplementados com melão / Effects of sudden intake of melon on blood gas, biochemical and hematological parameters of sheep

O presente trabalho avaliou os efeitos da administração de duas diferentes quantidades de melão sobre variáveis hemogasométricas, bioquímicas e hematológicas de ovinos não adaptados. Foram utilizados 12 ovinos canulados, pesando 25kg de peso vivo, que nunca receberam ração concentrada. Os animais receberam dieta à base de feno (2,3% do peso vivo) e água à vontade. Os ovinos foram distribuídos aleatoriamente em dois grupos e receberam 25% ou 75% da matéria seca (MS) da dieta de melão triturado (G25% e G75%, respectivamente) diretamente no rúmen. Foram realizadas coletas de sangue e determinação do pH ruminal nos seguintes tempos: zero, 3, 6, 12, 18 e 24 horas após oferecimento do melão. Foi realizada análise hemogasométrica, do volume globular, determinação da concentração plasmática de lactato-L, glicose e osmolaridade sérica. No G25%, o pH sanguíneo variou entre 7,40 e 7,31, enquanto o G75% apresentou pH entre 7,38 e 7,26. Maiores concentrações de glicose plasmática foram detectadas no G75% no T3, T6 e T12 (P<0,05). Os ovinos que receberam 25% de melão mantiveram parâmetros sanguíneos dentro da normalidade, ao passo que, no G75%, os ovinos apresentaram discreta acidose metabólica sistêmica e hiperglicemia. A suplementação com 25% de melão pode ser uma alternativa segura na alimentação de ovinos.

This study evaluated the effects of two different amounts of melon on blood gas, biochemical and hematological variables of sheep not adapted. We used 12 cannulated sheep weighing 25 kg which never received concentrate. The animals received hay-based diet (2.3% of body weight) and water ad libitum. The sheep were randomly divided into two groups and received 25% or 75% of the dry matter (DM) of the diet of crushed melon (G25% and G75%, respectively) directly into the rumen. Blood collection and determination of ruminal pH were made at the following times: zero, three, six, 12, 18 and 24 hours after administration of the fruit. In whole blood was performed blood gas analysis and packed cell volume; in the plasma it was determined the concentrations of L-Lactate and glucose and in the serum the osmolarity. At G25% the blood pH ranged between 7.40 and 7.31, while G75% showed pH between 7.38 and 7.26. Higher concentrations of plasma glucose were detected in G75% after 3, 6 and 12 hours (P <0.05). Sheep receiving 25% of melon showed blood parameters within the normal range, while in the G75%, sheep had a mild systemic metabolic acidosis and hyperglycemia.

Haploid Plant Regeneration from Unpollinated Ovules of Cucumis melo L. Var. Conomon cv. Mudicode.

Major objective of the present work was to induce haploid plants in Cucumis melo var. conomon cv. Mudicode (Common name: Kani vellari). Ovules of Kani vellari plants were collected one day before anthesis and were cultured in vitro on MS medium supplemented with IAA, IBA, NAA, 2, 4-D, KN, BAP, TDZ and 2-iP (1.0, 2.0 and 5.0 μM) and BAP/TDZ/KN (1.0, 2.0 and 5.0 μM) in combination with IAA, IBA, NAA, 2, 4-D (1.0, 2.0 and 5.0 μM). The cultured ovules involved in callus induction and an optimum quantity of 93.15 mg of callus from cultured ovules was obtained on the MS medium fortified with 1 μM BAP + 2 μM NAA. The callus induced on medium supplemented with 1 μM BAP+2 μM NAA was subcultured on MS medium supplemented with 5 μM BAP was involved in shoot organogenesis and developed a maximum of 5.55 shoots. The rooting of the regenerated shoots was achieved on MS medium supplemented with 1 μM IAA. Cytological analysis of the root tips of regenerated plants confirmed their haploid nature.

Biological Response of Muskmelon (Cucumis melo L.) to Magnetic Field and Silver Nanoparticles.

Aims: This experiment was done to study the responses of muskmelon (Cucumis melo L.) to magnetic field and silver nanoparticles combinations in comparison with commercial fertilizers in field conditions. Study Design: Experiment was conducted in a randomized complete block design with four replications. Place of Study: The present study was done at the Razavi Research and Technology Institute in Mashhad, Iran. Methodology: This experiment tested seven treatments based on a randomized complete block design in four replications. The treatments were as follows: AgM: Silver nanoparticles + magnetic field; HAgM: Humax commercial fertilizer + Silver nanoparticles + magnetic field; Humax: Humax commercial fertilizer; KAgM: Kemira commercial fertilizer + Silver nanoparticles + magnetic field; Kemira: Kemira commercial fertilizer; Librel: Librel commercial fertilizer, and Control. Results: Results indicated that treatments of silver nanoparticles with magnetic field (AgM) had the highest fruit yield (16.420 ton ha-1) followed by the Kemira fertilizer treatment (10.248 ton ha-1). Significantly, silver nanoparticles with magnetic field treatment (AgM) showed by 150% more fruit yield in comparison to the control. The highest fruit yield in second harvest was achieved in silver nanoparticles + magnetic field + Kemira commercial fertilizer (KAgM) and the lowest was found in the control and Librel treatments. Using AgM, KAgM and Librel treatments caused early ripening of fruit in muskmelon. AgM treatment indicated larger fruit size than control. Using silver nanoparticles + magnetic field (AgM) significantly increased content of fruit soluble solid (13.1%) related to control (9.8%) in first harvest. Conclusion: The treatment combining silver nanoparticles and magnetic field (AgM) most effectively improved early ripening of fruit, fruit and the quality of muskmelon fruit like soluble solid concentration compared to other treatments in firs harvest.

Valoración dosis-respuesta del efecto diurético de un extracto acuoso de pericarpio de Cucumis melo var. reticulatus Ser. / Dose-response assessment of the diuretic effect in a pericarp aqueous extract of Cucumis melo L. var. reticulatus Ser.

Introducción: la investigación se realizó para determinar la relación dosis-respuesta del pericarpio de melón, validar su empleo en la medicina tradicional venezolana y promover su uso racional como planta medicinal, mediante el conocimiento científico. Objetivo: valorar la relación dosis-respuesta del efecto diurético de la concha del fruto de Cucumis melo var. reticulatus Ser. en ratas. Métodos: se licuó el pericarpio del fruto fresco y se colocó en solución fisiológica por 48 h para luego colarlo. Se administraron vía oral dosis de 1, 3 y 6 mL/300 g, se compararon con un grupo control respectivo y se midió el volumen de orina producido transcurrida 1 h. Resultados: la primera dosis no tuvo efecto diurético en ningún caso. La excreción urinaria de las 2 mayores dosis fue diferente de su respectivo grupo control. Los grupos tratados con extracto acuoso a 3 y 6 mL resultaron diferentes entre sí, igual que los grupos control a esos volúmenes. No se encontró diferencia en la acción diurética. Se halló una relación dosis-respuesta de regresión no-lineal. Conclusiones: se evidencia la relación dosis-respuesta basada en la excreción urinaria, tras administrar el extracto acuoso de la concha de melón, lo que sustenta su empleo como diurético en la medicina tradicional venezolana.

Introduction: research was conducted to determine the dose-response of melon pericarp, validate its use in traditional medicine in Venezuela and promote its rational use as a medicinal plant, through scientific knowledge. Objective: to assess the dose-response diuretic effect of the shell of the fruit of Cucumis melo var. reticulatus Ser. in rats. Methods: fresh fruit pericarp was liquefied and placed in saline solution for 48 hours to strain it later. Oral doses of 1, 3 and 6 mL/300g were administered, compared with a respective control group, and the volume of urine produced an hour later was measured. Results: the first dose had no diuretic effect in any case. Urinary excretion of the two higher doses differed from their respective control group. The groups treated with aqueous extract at 3 and 6 mL were different among them, as well as the control groups in those volumes. No difference was found in the diuretic action. The study found a dose-response of nonlinear regression. Conclusions: there is a clear dose-response relationship based on urinary excretion after administration of the aqueous extract of melon shell, which supports its use as a diuretic in traditional medicine in Venezuela.

Physicochemical Characteristics of “Gari” Semolina Enriched with Different Types of Soy-melon Supplements.

The effects of enrichment of “gari” semolina with three different types of soy-melon protein supplements during toasting of “gari” were studied. Three protein supplements (Full fat, Defatted and Milk residue) were toasted together separately with the grated, dewatered and sifted cassava mash after fermentation (soak-mix method). After toasting and cooling, the samples were subjected to physico-chemical analyses. Results showed that enrichment increased the protein, fat and ash contents, and the pH values, while the hydrocyanic acid content, titratable acidity reduced generally. Enrichment increased the protein content from 2.81% in the control gari to a range of 15.3% - 23.5% in the enriched samples. The fat increased from 3.24% to a range of 4.13% - 13.50%; while the ash content increased from 1.18% to a range of 1.96% to 3.47%. Hydrocyanic acid was significantly (P ≤ 0.05) reduced from 13.5mg/kg to a range of 6.70mg/kg -12.5mg/kg in the enriched products. The pH increased from 3.62 to a range of 4.86 - 5.25 while the acidity correspondingly reduced from 0,46 in the control gari to a minimum value of 0.36% lactic acid in the sample toasted together with defatted soy-melon meal. From the result it could be concluded that enrichment improved the nutrient quality of “gari” especially the protein, fat and ash contents. It also reduced the hydrocyanic acid content, thereby producing “gari” of higher quality and better safety. The acidity of the enriched samples was however reduced thus lowering the sourness of “gari”. This may be an advantage for people who are not used to the sour taste of “gari”. Of all the three soy-melon “gari” samples, the sample enriched with defatted supplement had been shown to have the highest protein and ash contents, the lowest crude fat and acidity than other enriched gari samples. It had also been shown to have better wettability, water holding capacity, and ability to disperse in water. It also had better swelling and reconstitution indices than “gari” enriched with full fat and milk residue supplements.