Brain-derived Neurotropic factor (BDNF) mediates the protective effect of Cucurbita pepo L. on salivary glands of rats exposed to chronic stress evident by structural, biochemical and molecular study

Abstract Acute and chronic stresses affect the salivary glands, representing the source of plasma BDNF during stressful conditions. Pumpkin is a medicinal plant with an evident antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and potential antidepressant effects. Objective To assess the structural and biochemical effects induced by exposure to chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) on salivary glands of albino rats, and to evaluate the role of pumpkin extract (Pump) in ameliorating this effect. Methodology Four groups (n=10 each) of male albino rats were included in this study: the control, CUMS, Fluoxetine-treated and Pump-treated. The corticosterone, the pro-inflammatory cytokines, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6), and the oxidant/antioxidant profile were all assessed in the serum. The level of BDNF mRNA was measured in the salivary glands using qRT-PCR. Histopathological changes of the salivary glands were also assessed. Results The depressive-like status was confirmed behaviorally and biochemically. Exposure to CUMS significantly up-regulated (p<0.001) the level of serum corticosterone. CUMS induced degenerative changes in the secretory and ductal elements of the salivary glands evident by increased apoptosis. Both Fluoxetine and Pumpkin significantly up-regulated (p<0.001) BDNF expression in the salivary glands and ameliorated the CUMS-induced histopathological and biochemical alterations in the salivary glands. Pumpkin significantly (p<0.001) increased the serum levels of antioxidant enzymes SOD, GPX and CAT, and reduced the serum levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-6. Conclusion Pumpkin ameliorates the depressive-like status induced in rats following exposure to chronic stress through exerting a promising anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-depressant-like effects. The pumpkin, subsequently, improved stress-induced structural changes in the salivary glands that might be due to up-regulation of BDNF expression in the glands.

Antifertility and profertility effects of the leaves and seeds of fluted pumpkin: Sperm quality, hormonal effects and histomorphological changes in the testes of experimental animal models / 中西医结合学报

Fluted pumpkin (FP; Telfairia occidentalis) is an edible vegetable, grown in West Africa, that is used in traditional medicine for its regulatory effects on the male gonads. Scientific articles concerning the effects of FP were identified by searching PubMed, PubChem, Scopus, Springer, ResearchGate, Google Scholar and Web of Science; this literature was to better understand the effects of FP seed (FPS) and leaf (FPL) extracts on the testes. Data showed that in experimental animals extracts of FPL and FPS at 1/100 of the lethal dose promoted testis regeneration and improved testosterone concentration and sperm quality, while at higher doses they had antifertility effects. Several extracts of FPS and FPL, including ethanol, aqueous, methanol and hydroethanolic, had protective effects on the testes of study animals at lower doses (≥ 50 mg/kg body weight), but at higher doses (≥ 200 mg/kg body weight) they inhibited hormone synthesis, sperm quality and histomorphological structure, under both normal and disease conditions. The posttreatment effects of FPS on the gonads were reversible in young mature rats and FPS had slight systemic toxic effects. Although, there are inconsistencies in some of the published results, the current evidence suggests that FPS and FPL have both profertility and reversible antifertility effects in experimental animals.

Pumpkin seeds (Cucurbita maxima): a review of functional attributes and by-products / Semillas de calabaza (Cucurbita máxima): una revisión de sus propiedades funcionales y sub-productos

ABSTRACT The need to obtain nutritious foods from new sources and lower waste in industry has created a high interest in studying different parts of plants or foods that today are considered waste, but could be considered by-products with high nutritional value with potential use in human diets. Pumpkin seeds are commonly considered as waste but they have a high content of fatty and amino acids, which when used as a by-product or ingredient can add value to food products. The aim of this work was to perform a wide review of the nutritional and functional properties of Cucurbita maxima seeds and their potential medicinal influence.

RESUMEN La necesidad de obtener alimentos nutritivos de nuevas fuentes y menores desperdicios en la industria ha generado un gran interés en el estudio de diferentes partes de plantas o alimentos que hoy en día se consideran desechos, pero que podrían considerarse subproductos con alto valor nutricional y uso potencial en alimentación humana. Las semillas de calabaza se consideran comúnmente como desechos, pero tienen un alto e importante contenido de ácidos grasos y aminoácidos, que cuando se utilizan como subproducto o ingrediente pueden aportar un alto valor agregado a los productos alimenticios. El objetivo de este trabajo es realizar una amplia revisión de las propiedades nutricionales y funcionales de las semillas de Cucurbita maxima y su potencial influencia medicinal asociada a ellas.

Optimal Conditions for Production of Fermented Flour from Pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo L.) for Infant Foods

The aim of this study was to determine the optimal conditions for production of a fermented pumpkin flour by lactic fermentation using Lactobacillus plantarum and the effect of the fermentation on nutritional potential and functional properties of pumpkin. To achieve this, pumpkin fruit was collected in the Ngaoundere main market, peeled, sliced, and the flesh obtained was grated, pasteurized at 90ºC for 5 minutes and placed under lactic fermentation using L. plantarum (108 cfu/mL). The sample obtained was dried at 45ºC ± 2ºC for 24 hours and crushed to obtain a flour with particle size ≤ 500 µm. According to the Doehlert's plan used, time and temperature of fermentation varied from 24 to 96 hours and 30 to 50°C respectively. Responses sought were the optimal levels of total carotenoids and reducing sugars in the flours. Chemical composition of flour was determined to evaluate the effect of fermentation on food matrix used. Results indicate that to produce a pumpkin flour with highest content in both carotenoids and reducing sugars, optimal conditions of lactic fermentation with L. plantarum are 70h at 45°C. Under these conditions, there is a decrease of 72.1% of proteins and 67% of fibers, against an increase of 106% of reducing sugars. Total carotenoids content decreased by 4.6%, but the level is still higher than the threshold recommended for infant food formulation, while mineral content increases with fermentation. A reduction of anti-nutrients (phytates, tannins, phenolic compounds and oxalates) of more than 50% is also observed when fermenting pumpkin. The functional properties of fermented pulp show a decrease of water absorption capacity of 24% and an increase of 134.4% in bulk density. Fermented pumpkin flour could be used in infant food formulation, but need to be associated with other sources of proteins and minerals.

Ameliorative Activity of Pumpkin (Cucurbita maxima) Fruit and Seeds Powders on Diabetic, Oxidative and Pancreatic Status in Rats

Background:Diabetes mellitus is the one of the most common endocrine diseases that is characterized by hyperglycemia, altered metabolism with an increased risk of much complications. Besides drugs classicallyused for the treatment of diabetes several species of plants have been described as having a hypoglycemic activity with decreased side effects. Aim of the Work:This work aimed to investigate the possible anti-diabetic effect of oral administration of pumpkin (Cucurbita maxima) fruit flesh and seeds powders on Streptozotocin induced diabetic rats via studying blood glucose levels, oxidative biomarkers as well as islets of Langerhans structure changes.Materials and Methods:60 adult albino rats of Sprague-Dawely strains (200±5 gm) were classified into five groups of ten animals each except diabetic control group was composed of twenty rats as follow Group I:healthy control;Group II:diabetic control ,Group III,IVandV: diabetic rats received 2g pumpkin fruit, seeds, fruit and seeds mixture powders respectively /kg body weight daily by oral intubation Results:The results of present study showed that pumpkin powders caused significant improvements (P≤0.05) in blood glucose, insulin levels and glycated hemoglobin percent compared to diabetic control group. Also pumpkin powders improved antioxidants activities andhealed Langerhans islets by increasing their number and size in comparison with diabetic control group. Conclusion:The present study showed that pumpkin powders may normalize the various biochemical and pancreatic tissues abnormalities resulted due to diabetes metabolic disorders and it is a source of potent anti-diabetic agent. The diabetic rats that were administered with the pumpkin fruit powder, exhibited the highest improvements.

Development and characterization of pumpkin crackers containing live culture of Lactobacillus acidophilus

Aims@#Up to date, there is limited heat-treated non-dairy probiotic food products in the market. Therefore, this study aims to develop a new functional cracker containing microencapsulated pumpkin-probiotics with acceptable sensory characteristics. @*Methodology and results@#The sample crackers (crackers with beads containing pumpkin and probiotic) have achieved a minimum required viable count of 6.26 ± 0.05 Log10 CFU/g and showed significantly (p<0.05) lower viability loss compared to control crackers (crackers with beads containing probiotic only). Sample crackers were perceived as acceptable (score 6.61) by 93 untrained panelists when tested using 9-point hedonic test. The ash content of sample pumpkin crackers was significantly higher (p<0.05) than the control. Both sample and control pumpkin crackers exhibit high level of total dietary fiber (>6%). @*Conclusion, significance and impact of study@#In summary, development of pumpkin crackers with microencapsulated L. acidophilus could be an alternative healthy option cracker for consumers. In addition, the results also suggested a new technique to deliver live culture in baked goods.

Characterization of bioactive compounds, antioxidant activity and minerals in landraces of pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata) cultivated in Southern Brazil

Abstract The objective of this work was to evaluate the genetic variability for the synthesis of bioactive compounds and minerals in pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata) landraces. Total phenolic compounds, carotenoids, antioxidant activity and minerals were evaluated in 10 accessions of Cucurbita moschata landraces from the Genebank of Embrapa Temperate Agriculture (Pelotas - RS, Brazil). Twenty plants of each accession were cultivated in the field during the spring/summer of 2013/2014. After harvesting of mature fruits, the seeds were discarded and opposite longitudinal portions of the pulp were manually prepared for analysis of the bioactive compounds. For the determination of minerals, pumpkin samples were frozen in plastic bags, and after freeze-dried and milled. All analysis were performed in triplicate. The data obtained showed high genetic variability for the synthesis of phenolic compounds, carotenoids, antioxidant activity and minerals. The accessions C52, C81, C267 e C389 showed high levels of antioxidants and minerals, being recommended for use in pumpkin breeding programs. The accessions C52 and C389 are promising, especially because they present the highest levels of total carotenoids.

Phenolic Composition and Inhibitory Ability of Methanolic Extract from Pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo L) Seeds on Fe-induced Thiobarbituric acid reactive species in Albino Rat’s Testicular Tissue In-Vitro.

Pumpkin seed has been associated with myriad of medicinal uses in different part of the world. In this study, phenolic composition and Fe2+ induced thiobarbituric acid reactive species (TBARS) inhibitory ability of methanolic extract from pumpkin seeds in rat’s testes homogenates were determined. The extract was prepared with 80% methanol (v/v) and the radicals [(1,1-diphenyl–2 picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS)] scavenging, Fe2+ chelation and ferric reducing abilities of the extract were carried out. The phenolics composition was also investigated using gas chromatography couple with flame ionization detector (GC-FID). The GC analysis revealed the presence of vallinic, coumaric protocatechuic, caffeic, ferulic and sinapinic acids, and apigenin, quercetin, luteolin, kaempferol as the dominant phenolic compounds. The results revealed that the extract inhibited Fe2+-induced TBARS, scavenge DPPH radical and chelate Fe2+ in a dose dependent manner. The extract also scavenged ABTS radical and reduced Fe2+ to Fe3+. Although, the standard used had higher effect compared to the extract, nevertheless, the TBARs inhibitory potential of the extracts clearly gives an insight on the protective potentials against oxidative induce testicular damage that might lead to male infertility if unchecked. These abilities could however be linked to the presence of polyphenolic compounds.

Efeitos in vitro e in situ da adição de extrato aquoso de cravo sobre o desenvolvimento microbiano / Effects in vitro and in situ addition of aqueous clove extract on microbial

Foram avaliados os efeitos da adição in situ e in vitro, de extrato aquoso de botões de cravo-da-índa (Syzygium aromaticum) sobre Escherichia coli (ATCC 8739) e Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 25923). Para o estudo in vitro foram empregadas concentrações de 100%, 75%, 50% e 25% (v/v) de extrato de cravo, diluídas em água destilada estéril, utilizando a técnica de difusão em ágar por disco. O estudo in situ foi conduzido inoculando amostras de doce de abóbora em pasta, adicionadas ou não de extrato aquoso de cravo puro, com as cepas bacterianas (108 UFC/g), separadamente. Os resultados revelaram que o extrato aquoso de cravo propiciou um aumento na contagem in vitro de E. coli e S. aureus. De modo análogo, no estudo in situ, a contagem de S. aureus foi favorecida pela adição do extrato puro de cravo em doce de abóbora em pasta. Sugere-se, portanto, estudos mais detalhados sobre o emprego de extratos aquosos de especiarias em alimentos a fim de elucidar o efeito sobre o desenvolvimento microbiano e possíveis interações com a composição dos alimentos em que são empregados.

Characterization of pumpkin polysaccharides and protective effects on streptozotocin-damaged islet cells / 中国天然药物

The polysaccharides from pumpkin fruit (PP) were obtained and purified by hot-water extraction, anion-exchange chromatography, and gel column chromatography. The physicochemical properties of PP were determined by gel filtration chromatography, gas chromatography, fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. Results indicated that the molecular weight of PP was about 23 kDa and PP was composed of D-Arabinose, D-Mannose, D-Glucose, and D-Galactose with a molar ratio of 1 : 7.79 : 70.32 : 7.05. FTIR and NMR spectra indicated that PP was the polysaccharide containing pyranose ring. Additionally, PP protected islets cells from streptozotocin (STZ) injury in vitro via increasing the levels of super-oxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) and reducing the production of NO. The experiment of reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction further proved that PP inhibited apoptosis via modulating the expression of Bax/Bcl-2 in STZ-damaged islet cells. In conclusion, PP could be explored as a novel agent for the treatment of diabetes mellitus.

Multiple Antibiotic-resistant Bacteria on Fluted Pumpkin Leaves, a Herb of Therapeutic Value.

Fluted pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis) is a minimally-processed green leafy vegetable traditionally used for its antianaemic properties in the form of leaf juice without a heating or inactivation step before consumption. The aim of the study was to assess the presence of surface microbiota on T. occidentalis leaves and also to determine the antimicrobial susceptibility of isolated organisms. Bacterial contaminants on 50 samples of T. occidentalis leaves were isolated and characterized using standard biochemical methods and the antimicrobial susceptibility of isolated organisms was determined using the antibiotic disc diffusion assay. The results obtained show that the leaves of T. occidentalis is contaminated with organisms which included Enterobacter agglomerans (25.9%), Proteus vulgaris (24.9%), Klebsiella spp. (2.6%), and Serratia liquefaciens (2.1%). Other bacterial isolates recovered in order of frequency included: Staphylococcus spp. (33.7%), Bacillus spp. (8.3%), and Pseudomonas fluorescens (2.6%). Of the 193 bacterial isolates from the leaves of T. occidentalis samples tested for antimicrobial resistance, all (100%) were found to be resistant to ampicillin, cloxacillin, augmentin, erythromycin, and tetracycline while 96% of the isolates were resistant to cephalothin. Resistance to trimethoprim (93%) and gentamicin (83%) was also observed. Approximately, 22% of the isolates were resistant to ciprofloxacin; however, only 11 (5.8%) were resistant to ofloxacin. Thus, uncooked T. occidentalis is a potential source of highly-resistant epiphytic bacteria which could be opportunistic pathogens in consumers.

Effects of Orlistat and Herbal Mixture Extract on Renal Function and Oxidative Stress Biomarkers in a Rat Model of High Fat Diet.

This study was designed to assess the effectiveness of herbal mixture extracts of pumpkin seed oil, peanuts shell and Orlistat on renal function and oxidative stress biomarkers in male albino rats administrated high fat diet (HFD). Study Design: Fifty male rats were divided into four groups: 1st a normal diet, 2nd HFD, 3rd HFD with Orlistat and 4th HFD with herbal mixture. Place and Duration of Study: Biochemistry-Chemistry department, Faculty of Science, Beni-Suef University for two years. Methodology: A group of rats were fed with a standard control diet (1st control group) and another group of rats were fed with a diet containing 35% fat (2nd HFD) for 16 weeks. Then, this group of HFD was divided into 3 groups for the following 6 weeks: 1st group hadHFD only, 2nd group had HFD plus 2 mg/kg bw/day Orlistat and 3rd group had HFD plus 5 mg/kg bw/day pumpkins and 2 mg/kg bw/day nutshell extract. Blood and renal tissues were collected for biochemical assays. Results: HFD group showed a very high significant increase (***P<0.001)in feed intake from low (216.9+/-12.25) to high (327.5 +/-22.00), body weight and body mass index. HFD affect the kidney by increasing serum uric acid (**P<0.01)(1.964+/-0.251) to (3.106+/- 0.161), urea, creatinine, (***P<0.001) for low density lipoproteins and total cholesterol (16.71+/-2.27 to 55.78+/-4.40 and 70.30+/-2.75 to118.10+/-6.35) respectively, triacylglycerol (**P<0.01) (54.60+/-6.42 to 80.00+/-0.65) and malondialdehyde (***P<0.001) (35.48 +/- 3.52 to 63.03 +/-1.48). These changes improved by the treatments with Orlistat and herbal mixture that decreased the oxidative stress biomarkers. Conclusion: Rats that fed with HFD showed hypertriglyceridemia, increased oxidative stress and renal alteration. Moreover, suggesting association between lipid peroxidation, obesity and nephropathy, while treatment with Orlistat and herbal mixture ameliorated the harmful effects of the HFD and reduce feed intake.

Fibre from Pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo L.) Seeds and Rinds: Physico-chemical Properties, Antioxidant Capacity and Application as Bakery Product Ingredients

Introduction: The aims of this study were to determine the proximate composition, functional properties and antioxidant activity of pumpkin seeds and rind. Besides, the effects of dietary fibre in pumpkin seeds and rinds on bread qualities and properties were evaluated. Methods: Formulations for bread substituted with 0%, 5% and 10% pumpkin seed and rind, respectively were produced. Sensory evaluation of the prepared bread samples for such attributes as appearance, aroma, flavour, texture and overall acceptability was undertaken. The physical properties of the bread samples, including dough expansion, loaf volume, crumb colour and bread texture, were determined. Proximate analysis and determination of antioxidant activity of the bread samples were also conducted. Results: Crude fibre of the pumpkin seeds and pumpkin rinds was high at 31.48% and 14.83%, respectively. The total phenolic compound (TPC) and DPPH radical scavenging activity for the pumpkin rinds were 38.60 mg GAE/ 100 g dry weight and 69.38%, respectively, which were higher than those of pumpkin seeds. A 5% level of pumpkin rind bread gave the best overall acceptability and sensory attributes, followed by 5% pumpkin seed bread. Total dietary fibre, total phenolic compound and DPPH radical scavenging activity in breads substituted with 5% pumpkin seed and 5% pumpkin rind flour were higher than the values in control bread. Conclusion: Pumpkin seeds and rinds can be used as dietary fibre sources in bakery.

Carotenoides totais e vitamina A de cucurbitáceas do Banco Ativo de Germoplasma da Embrapa Semiárido / Total caratenoids and vitamin A of cucurbits from germoplasm bank of Embrapa Semiarid

Dentre as espécies cultivadas no semiárido baiano, as abóboras são uma excelente alternativa de produção. Nessa região onde são encontrados os mais baixos Índices de Desenvolvimento Humano (IDH) do Brasil e populações com alta incidência de hipovitaminose A, materiais promissores de abóboras, fontes de carotenoides, podem ser inseridos no agronegócio irrigado. O objetivo do trabalho foi identificar acessos de abóboras do Banco Ativo de Germoplasma (BAG) de Cucurbitáceas da Embrapa Semiárido com altos teores de carotenoides totais e vitamina A. Os teores de carotenoides totais (CT), expressos em termos de β-caroteno, variaram de 14,93µg g-1 (A4) até 290,62µg g-1 (A43) entre os diferentes acessos (A). Dos carotenoides encontrados nos acessos com maiores teores de CT, 60-70% foram quantificados como α- e β-caroteno, representando um valor total de vitamina A de 1.182,39 gRAE 100g-1 (A40) e 1.828,84 gRAE 100g-1 (A43). Esses resultados demonstram que os 48 acessos de abóboras do BAG estudados apresentam grande variação quanto ao teor de carotenoides totais, e os selecionados representam alta fonte de vitamina A.

Among the species of short cycle crops, with great potential to be increased within the agribusiness of the Semi-Arid Bahia, the pumpkins are an excellent alternative for production. In this region where are found the lowest HDI of Brazil, and populations with high incidence of hypovitaminosis A, promising materials of pumpkins with high amounts of carotenoids have a chance to be good accepted and inserted into the irrigated agribusiness. The aim of this research was to identify accessions of pumpkins from the Active Germplasm Bank (BAG) of Cucurbitáceas from Embrapa Semi-arid with high amounts of total carotenoids and vitamin A. The amount of total carotenoids found by UV-vis spectrophotometry (445nm) in different accessions (A) ranged from 14.93mg g-1 (A4) to 290.62mg g-1 (A43), with average value of 366.60 31.21µg g-1. In the access with higher amounts of total carotenoids a percentage between 60-70 % were quantified as α- and β-carotene showing a total value of vitamin A of 1,182.39 gRAE 100g-1 (A40) and 1,828.84 gRAE 100g-1 (A43). These results demonstrate that the 48 accessions of pumpkins BAG studied show a big variation in the content of total carotenoids, and may represent some high source of vitamin A, which really increase the importance of identifying genotypes for production in large scale of lines segregant of vitamin A.

Protective effect of ellagic acid and pumpkin seed oil against methotrexate-induced small intestine damage in rats.

Gastrointestinal toxicity is one of the most serious side effects in the methotrexate (MTX) treatment. This study was designed to investigate whether ellagic acid (EA) and/or pumpkin seed oil (PSO) had a protective effect on MTX-induced small intestine damage. Forty albino rats were randomized into five groups of 8 rats each. Group I served as a normal control group. In Group II, MTX was administered as a single dose (20 mg/kg) intraperitoneally. Groups III, IV and V were pre-treated respectively with either PSO (40 mg/kg), EA (10 mg/kg) or 0.2% DMSO (vehicle control) orally every day by gavage for 5 days and then they received MTX. All animals were sacrificed 5 days after the intraperitoneal injection of MTX for histopathological examination, estimation of serum prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) level, assay of tissue malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH) and nitric oxide (NO) levels and myloperoxidase (MPO), xanthine oxidase (XO) and adenosine deaminase (AD) activities. Administration of EA and/or PSO decreased the intestinal damage, PGE2, MDA and NO levels and MPO, XO and AD activities and increased GSH level. These results suggest that EA and PSO protect the small intestine of rats from MTX-induced damage through their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects and thus have potential as a promising drug in the prevention of undesired side effects of MTX.

Fitoesteroles y escualeno como hipocolesterolémicos en cinco variedades de semillas de Cucurbita maxima y Cucurbita moschata (calabaza) / Phytosterols and squalene as hypocholesterolemic substances in five varieties of Cucurbita maxima and Cucurbita moschata (pumpkin) seeds

Introducción: la semilla de calabaza se ha estudiado y utilizado en el tratamiento de enfermedades parasitarias, hipertrofia benigna prostática, cistitis y como hipoglicemiante.Sin embargo, se desconocen investigaciones que refieran el uso de la semilla de calabaza y sobre todo de los fitoesteroles y escualeno como elementos hipocolesterolémicos en humanos. Objetivo: determinar el contenido de fitoesteroles y escualeno de cinco variedades de semilla de calabaza para su posible uso como hipocolesterolémicos en humanos. Métodos: se estudiaron semillas de calabaza de dos especies, Cucurbita maxima y Cucurbita moschata, de Cuba y México de las variedades Fifí, Marucha, INIVIT C- 88 (cubanas), Chata y Tapatía (mexicanas), se determinó el perfil de fitoesteroles (beta-sitosterol, campesterol, estigmasterol y estigmastenol) y escualeno mediante cromatografía gas-líquido. Resultados: el contenido de extracto etéreo y grasa verdadera en las semillas osciló entre 331,5 y 346; 307 y 336 g/kg, respectivamente. La variedad fifí (Cucurbita moschata) presentó el mayor contenido de material insaponificable (35,0 g/kg), mostró diferencias significativas (p< 0,001) con las demás variedades y superior a las semillas oleaginosas convencionales. La concentración de escualeno y beta-sitosterol resultó superior en la variedad marucha (Cucurbita moschata) (40,27 y 202,59mg/100 g), que indicó diferencias significativas (p< 0,001) con las restantes variedades. Las variedades chata y marucha presentaron el mayor contenido de campesterol (50,08y 49,31 mg/100 g, respectivamente), así como la marucha encontró la mayor concentración de stigmasterol y estigmastenol (1,75y 28,63 mg/100 g), además, los contenidos resultaron superiores a los alimentos vegetales frecuentes en las dietas. Conclusiones: los resultados obtenidos en la concentración de los fitoesteroles y escualeno en las variedades analizadas, sugieren el estudio de la semilla de calabaza como posible hipocolesterolémico en humanos

Introduction: the pumpkin seed has been studied and used in the treatment of parasitic diseases, benign prostatic hypertrophy, cystitis and as hypoglycemic substance. However, the research concerning the use of pumpkin seeds and especially the sterols and squalene as hypocholesterolemic elements in humans is unknown. Objective: to determine the phytosterol and squalene content of five varieties of pumpkin seeds for their potential use as hypocholesterolemic compounds in humans. Methods: the pumpkin seeds from two species called Cucurbita maxima and Cucurbita moschata from Cuba and Mexico were studied. The varieties were Fifi, Marucha, INIVIT C-88 (Cuban), Tapatía and Chata (Mexican) for which the profile of phytosterols (beta-sitosterol, campesterol, stigmasterol and stigmastenol) and the squalene were determined using gas-liquid chromatography. Results: the content of ethereal extract and real fat in the seeds ranged 331.5 to 346, and 307 to 336 g/kg, respectively. The variety Fifi (C. moschata) had the highest content of unsaponifiable material (35.0 g/kg) and showed significant differences (p< 0.001) compared with other varieties and above that of conventional oilseeds. The squalene, and beta-sitosterol concentration was higher Marucha (Cucurbita moschata) (40.27 and 202.59 mg/100 g), indicating significant differences (p< 0.001) compared with other varieties. Marucha and Chata varieties exhibited the highest campesterol content (50.08 and 49.31 mg/100 g, respectively), and the Marucha evidenced the largest concentration of stigmasterol and stigmastenol (1.75 and 28.63 mg/100 g); additionally, the amounts contained were above those of the common vegetable food in the diet. Conclusions: the results in phytosterol and squalene concentrations achieved in the studied varieties suggested that the pumpkin seeds be studied as a possible hypocholesterolemic substance for humans

Ocorrência de Lixophaga sp. (Diptera: Tachinidae) parasitando lagartas de Diaphania nitidalis (L) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) em Cucurbita moschata no Brasil / Occurrence of Lixophaga sp. (Diptera: Tachinidae) parasitizing larvae of Diaphania nitidalis (L) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) in Cucurbita moschata in Brazil

O parasitoide Lixophaga sp. (Diptera: Tachinidae) ocorreu em lagartas de Diaphania nitidalis (Cramer, 1782) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) em plantio comercial de abóbora no Estado do Espírito Santo, Brasil. Não há registro de Lixophaga sp. parasitando Diaphania sp. na América do Sul e mesmo os registros para hospedeiros deste gênero são poucos. A caracterização morfológica dos adultos foi feita no Departamento e Zoologia, Instituto de Biociências da Universidade de São Paulo, Brasil. Das lagartas coletadas em campo, 26,2% estavam parasitadas, obtendo-se uma média de 2,2 pupas por lagarta e viabilidade de 14,3%. Esse parasitoide mostrou ter potencial para o controle de D. nitidalis.

The parasitoid Lixophaga sp. (Diptera: Tachinidae) occurred in larvae of Diaphania nitidalis (Cramer, 1782) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) in a commercial pumpkin plantation in the State of Espírito Santo, Brazil. This is the first report of Lixophaga sp. parasitizing Diaphania sp. in the South America, and there are few reports concerning hosts of this genus. The morphologic characterization of the adults was made at the Department of Zoology, Institute of Bioscience, of the University of São Paulo, Brazil. Of the larvae collected in the field, 26.2% were parasitized, with an average of 2.2 pupae per larva and a viability of 14.3%. This parasitoid presented potential for the control of D. nitidalis.

Effects of pumpkin seed oil and saw palmetto oil in Korean men with symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia

This study was to investigate the role of complementary and alternative medicine in the prevention and treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia. For this purpose, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was performed over 12 months on 47 benign prostatic hyperplasia patients with average age of 53.3 years and international prostate symptom score over 8. Subjects received either sweet potato starch (group A, placebo, 320 mg/day), pumpkin seed oil (group B, 320 mg/day), saw palmetto oil (group C, 320 mg/day) or pumpkin seed oil plus saw palmetto oil (group D, each 320 mg/day). International prostate symptom score, quality of life, serum prostate specific antigen, prostate volume and maximal urinary flow rate were measured. In groups B, C and D, the international prostate symptom score were reduced by 3 months. Quality of life score was improved after 6 months in group D, while those of groups B and C were improved after 3 months, compared to the baseline value. Serum prostate specific antigen was reduced only in group D after 3 months, but no difference was observed in prostate volume in all treatment groups. Maximal urinary flow rate were gradually improved in groups B and C, with statistical significance after 6 months in group B and after 12 months in group C. None of the parameters were significantly improved by combined treatment with pumpkin seed oil and saw palmetto oil. From these results, it is suggested that administrations of pumpkin seed oil and saw palmetto oil are clinically safe and may be effective as complementary and alternative medicine treatments for benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Effects of Pumpkin Water Extract Supplement on Serum Lipid and Fasting Glucose Levels in Female Collegians

To elucidate the effect of a 4 week dietary supplementation with pumpkin water extract on serum lipid and fasting glucose levels, 41 female collegians residing in the Gyeonggi area were recruited. The subjects were divided into three groups: placebo-control (PC, n=11), treatment A (TA, 100 ml/day, n=13), and treatment B (TB, 300 ml/day, n=17). Total serum cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol, triglyceride (TG), and fasting glucose were analyzed. The average age, height, weight, and body mass index of the subjects were 21.3 years, 161.1 cm, 53.0 kg, and 20.4 kg/m2, respectively. The average total cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, TG, and fasting glucose level (mg/dl) were 171.4+/-26.1, 63.5+/-11.4, 92.6+/-22.9, 76.8+/-32.0, and 89.1+/-8.2, respectively. There were no significant differences among the three groups in any measured parameters, and between the pre- and post-study values of the all parameters. The results indicated that the 4 week pumpkin water extract supplementation (100 ml, 300 ml) did not influence the serum total cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, TG and fasting glucose level in female collegians.

Sperm morphological studies of the west African dwarf buck treated with pumpkin plant (Cucurbita pepo) / Estudio morfológico del esperma de la cabra enana del oeste africano tratado con planta de calabazas (Cucurbita pepo)

Four healthy bucks of the West African Dwarf breed aged between 24 and 30 months were used for this study. The bucks were first used as control and later as experimental animals upon being fed daily with oiled pumpkin plant for the period of six months. The objective of the study was to investigate the effect of the pumpkin plant on the morphology of the spermatozoa of the bucks. There were significant differences (p< 0.05) between the control and experimental values for both primary and secondary morphological spermatozoa abnormalities: the pyriform head has a control value of 6 (0. 42 percent) and post-feeding value of 0 (0 percent), the beat tail; 14(0.97 percent) and 2 (0.16 percent) for the control and post feeding values respectively. The curved mid piece: 17 (1.18 percent) and 1 (0.08 percent) for the control and post-feeding values respectively. The bent mid piece also differed significantly (p<0.05) between control value of 16 (1.11 percent) and post feeding value of 3 (0.23 percent). All through the stages of the study, there were significant reductions in the number of sperm cells with abnormalities consequent upon daily feeding of the animals with pumpkin plant. The plant is therefore recommended for both prevention and treatment of make infertility in man and animals.

Cuatro cabras de la raza enana del oeste de África, con edades comprendidas entre los 24 y 30 meses, fueron utilizadas para este estudio. Las cabras sirvieron primero como control y, posteriormente, como animales de experimentación los que se alimentaron diariamente con aceite de planta de calabaza por un período de seis meses. El objetivo del estudio fue investigar el efecto de la planta de calabaza sobre la morfología de los espermatozoides de las cabras. Hubo diferencias significativas (p <0,05) entre los valores control y experimental en las anomalías morfológicas primarias y secundarias de los espermatozoides: la cabeza tuvo un valor de control de 6 (0,42 por ciento) y post alimentación valor 0 (0 por ciento), el movimiento de la cola un valor de 14 (0,97 por ciento) y 2 (0,16 por ciento) para el control y post alimentación, respectivamente. La curvatura media: valores de 17 (1,18 por ciento) y 1 (0,08 por ciento) para el control y post-alimentación, respectivamente. La inclinación media también difería significativamente (p <0,05), con un valor entre 16 (1,11 por ciento) el control y 3 (0,23 por ciento) post-alimentación. Hasta el final de las etapas del estudio, hubo una reducción significativa en el número de células de esperma con anomalías como consecuencia de la alimentación diaria de los animales con la planta de calabaza. Por lo tanto, la planta se recomienda para la prevención y el tratamiento de la infertilidad en hombres y otros animales.