Search

Cucumber is one of the most widely consumed vegetables worldwide, and the fruit spine is an important fruit quality trait. Expansins play critical roles in fruit development; however, the regulation of expansins in cucumber fruit spine development has not been reported. In this study, 33 expansin genes were identified in the cucumber genome V3; additionally, expansin genes in Citrullus lanatus, Cucumis melo, Cucurbita maxima, Lagenaria siceraria, and Benincasa hispida were also identified. Phylogenetic analysis of expansin proteins in Cucurbitaceae and Arabidopsis showed that they evolved separately in each plant species. Phylogenetic analysis showed that C. maxima was derived earlier than the other five Cucurbitaceae species. The expression of CsEXPA2, CsEXPA14, and CsEXLA3 varied in cucumber lines with different fruit spine densities. A yeast two-hybrid assay showed that a putative auxin transporter encoded by numerous spine gene (ns) interacts with CsEXLA2, which may be involved in the development of the numerous spines in cucumber. These results provide novel insights into the expansins related to plant development and fruit spine development in cucumber.

The effects of adsorbent dosage, reaction time, temperature and pH on the adsorption of Pb2+, Zn2+, Fe2+ and Cu2+ from produced water using activated carbon prepared from Citrullus lanatus peel via calcination at 681.10 °C for 2.61 h were studied. L9 orthogonal Taguchi approach was used for the parametric optimization. Activated carbon was characterized using scanning electron microscopy, Brunauer-Emmett-Teller analysis, X-ray diffraction, X-ray fluorescence and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and; exhibited a porous-graphite-crystalline structure, presence of different metal oxides and active functional groups with large surface area of 1249.7 m2/g. Batch adsorption experiments revealed the efficacy of prepared activated carbon to remove heavy metals from produced water. At optimum points, predicted values were 76.31, 59.3, 69.91 and 84.08% for Pb2+, Zn2+, Fe2+ and Cu2+ removed respectively. The values of R2, Adj-R2 and pred-R2 revealed reasonable agreements between experimental and predicted data which proved developed models to be effective.

Citrullus colocynthis (C. colocynthis) seed is a common and expensive cuisine in West African diet unlike the seeds from Citrullus lanatus (C. lanatus) that are agro waste. The oils from these seeds were comparatively profiled using their physicochemical properties, fatty acids and phenolic contents, in-vitro antioxidant capacity (DPPH, TEAC, FRAP, ORAC), inhibitions of lipid peroxidation and tyrosinase. Toxicities of the oils in mice were also assessed using plasma AST, ALT, cholesterol, HDL-C, liver, heart and kidney (GSH, GPx and SOD) and clastogenic effects in mouse bone marrow. Citrullus lanatus oil contains higher peroxides, saponification, saturated fatty acids and stearic acid (6-fold) levels, with a lower acid value when compared to C. colocynthis. Strong antioxidant capacity, inhibition of lipid peroxidation and tyrosinase by C. lanatus oil extract is proposed to be related to the presence of catechins that are absent in C. colocynthis. The in-vivo study indicated that C. lanatus induced significant increase in ALT while a significant increase of AST was observed in the C. colocynthis treated group. Citrullus lanatus induced a significantly (p 0.05). This work reports for the first time the presence of stearic acid and catechin in C. lanatus oil which is important for its compelling in vitro activity. High doses of both oils could evidently induce toxicological indices in mice.

The wound inflicted during grafting of watermelon seedlings requires rapid and sufficient vascular development which is affected by light quality. Our objective was to investigate the effect of light spectra emitted by light-emitting diodes (LEDs) during healing of grafted watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) seedlings on their vascular development, physiological and phytohormonal profile, and root architecture. Three LEDs emitting red (R), blue (B), and RB with 12% blue (12B) were tested in a healing chamber. During the first three days, the photosynthetic apparatus portrayed by PIABS, φP0, ψE0, and ΔVIP was less damaged and faster repaired in B-treated seedlings. B and 12B promoted vascular reconnection and root development (length, surface area and volume). This was the result of signaling cascade between phytohormones such as indole-3-acetic acid and others. After vascular reconnection the seedlings switched lights for 3 more days and the picture was reversed. Seedlings treated with B for the first 3 days and R for days 4 to 6 had better photosynthetic characteristics, root system development, morphological, shoot and root biomass, and quality (i.e. Dickson’s quality index) characteristics. We concluded that blue light is important during the first 3 days of healing, while the presence of red is necessary after vascular reconnection.

White flesh watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) is known to contain alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins and polyphenols. Research conducted by Rimando proves that watermelon rind contains the amino acid citrulline reaching 60% which is important in increasing levels of nitric oxide which is a regulator of blood flow, muscle energy metabolism, and mitochondrial respiration during exercise. This study aims to formulate bath soap from watermelon waste that meets the requirements with variations in the concentration of watermelon flesh extract (3%; 6%; 9%). Watermelon flesh extract was extracted by maceration process using 70% ethanol. Evaluations were carried out in the form of organoleptic, pH, free of alkali, high foam and density. The results showed that the three formulas were formulas that met the requirements according to SNI standards based on pH test, free alkali, foam height, and density.

The investigation aimed to analyze the qualitative attributes of ‘Sugar Baby’ variety of watermelon. Ripe fruit consisted of 68.30% flesh, 31.07% rind, and 1.58% seeds. Freshly extracted juice had a pH, total soluble solids, lycopene, ascorbic acid, and total phenolic content of 5.64, 8.90°Bx, 5.23 mg/100 mL juice, 8.22 mg/100 mL juice, and 15.48 mg GAE/100 mL juice, respectively, with a color intensity value of 45.37. Juice had a total aerobic bacteria and yeast & mold counts of 5.69 and 5.68 log cfu/mL, respectively. The predominant sugar and organic acid were fructose (31.10 mg/mL juice) and malic acid (3.38 mg/mL juice). Six key flavor compounds were identified such as 1-Dodecyne; 6-Nonenal (Z); propanoic acid 2-oxo-methyl ester; 2-propanol, 1-methoxy; 5-heptene, 2-one, 6-methyl and hexanal. The rind contains pectin (20.08%) and citrulline (13.36 mg/g and 9.78 mg/g in the skin and peel, respectively). Solvent extraction from dried seeds resulted in 38.66% oil.

Citrulline is a non-protein building amino acid that plays important roles in nitric oxide production, vasodilation and ammonia detoxification. It is structurally related to arginine and is most abundant in melons and other cucurbit species. Most current methods for the quantification of citrulline and arginine require time-consuming chemical derivatization steps, and often use more expensive detection methods such as fluorescence detection. Hence, this study aimed to develop a simple and rapid reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography method using ultraviolet detection (RP-HPLC–UV), without requiring any analyte derivatization. The method was used to quantify the citrulline and arginine content of 13 Australian fruit and vegetable cultivars, comprising 11 species from 7 genera and 5 families. The highest citrulline contents were found in mature citron melon (Citrullus lanatus var. citroides) fruit (39.2 mg/g dry weight basis), which also had the highest citrulline: arginine ratio of 17.8. Red watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) flesh also contained high levels of citrulline (22.9 mg/g), with lower concentrations in other melons, pumpkin and squash (1–3 mg/g). Arginine levels were highest in red watermelon flesh (8.1 mg/g). This extraction protocol and HPLC method may be suitable for screening large number of samples for citrulline and arginine contents.

Background Agro-waste is of rising concern since they present social, economic and environmental challenges. Conversion of food waste is receiving an increasing attention towards the fact that these materials represent possible utilization sources for conversion into useful products and increasing the demand for natural bioactive compounds. Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) is consumed all over the world that contains a large number of seeds and rind, which is discarded and used as animal feed. These by-products contain phytochemical compounds with great nutritional and functional potential. Scope and approach This review article describes the scientific studies from the last five years regarding the nutritional and bioactive compounds present in the watermelon rind (WMR) and watermelon seeds (WMSs). This review also focused on their nutraceutical worth fully justified by the presence of functional active compounds, as well as their potential industrial application for future research concerning novel or functional, nutraceutical, pharmaceutical and cosmeceutical product development. Key findings and conclusion: WMR is a rich source of fatty acids, minerals, and phenolic compounds and dietary fibers. It also contains soluble carbohydrates (45–65%), carotenoids, alkaloids, saponin, and phytates. WMSs are an excellent source of protein (15–50%) such as albumin, globulin, prolamin, and glutelin. WMSs are also a good source of vitamin B-complex (B1, B2, B3, B6 B12), polyunsaturated fatty acids, essential and non-essential amino acids as well as phenolic compounds. Moreover. Watermelon by-products also present therapeutic properties including anti-diabetic, antioxidant, antihypertensive, anti-inflammatory, antiulcer, antitumor, hypocholesterolemic, hepato-, nephron- and neuro-protective effects and antibacterial properties fully evidenced from recently published literature. Therefore, the use of these byproducts to design and develop innovative functional food products with added value is important for sustainability across the food chain. Nevertheless, further research is needed on the clinical studies of WMR and WMSs to fully support the development of functional food products, nutraceutical and pharmaceutical applications.

This study optimised the development of fermentable sugars from melon seed peels via hydrochloric acid hydrolysis. The optimum conditions for the sugar yield were determined using response surface ...

The effect of Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) Pulp Juice (WPJ) on scopolamine (SCOP) induced memory deficits is due to the involvement of oxidative stress and AChE activity. The juice was obtained by crushing the pulp in blender and three different concentrations of 100%, 50% and 25% was administration to prevent memory deficit by evaluating changes of AChE activity and oxidative stress indicators (SOD, CAT, LPO and GPx) induced by scopolamine. These results provide evidence that WPJ is an alternative to protect SCOP induced memory deficits in mice by involvement of oxidative stress and AChE activity.

The production of transgenic watermelon through Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated transformation with in vitro regeneration system is a time-consuming, labor-intensive and genotype-dependent process. To acquire large number of transgenic watermelons in a shorter period of time, the half-seed explants were infected with Agrobacterium strain EHA 105 harboring pCAMBIA1301 with bar and gus genes. The factors affecting in planta transformation efficiency, such as co-cultivation duration, acetosyringone concentration, sonication duration and vacuum infiltration were assessed in the present study. The half-seed explants were sonicated for 3 min and 2 min vacuum infiltrated in Agrobacterium suspension and co-cultivated for 3 days with 100 µM acetosyringone showed maximum transformation efficiency. The transformed watermelon plants were selected against BASTA® and GUS, PCR, Southern hybridization analysis confirmed the transgene integration. The amenability of this established protocol was analyzed on four genotypes, in which the response of all genotypes was positive, whereas Arka manik showed the higher transformation efficiency of 17%. The transformation protocol developed in the present study is efficient, economical and expeditious without the taking part of any tissue culture phases and produce a large number of transgenic lines within a short period of 56 days.

Highlights • Salt stress effects agronomic traits and uptake of minerals. • Salt stress also enhanced the oxidative stress biomarkers like hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). • Supplementation of Mycorrhiza enhances the agronomical traits and alleviates slat stress. • Silicon application also mitigates the salt stress through modulating antioxidant enzymes. • The combination of Mycorrhiza and Silicon were more effective than their individual effect., Citrullus lanatus L. is critical vegetable for salinity stress. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and silicon treatments are known to help as bio-ameliorator of saline soils that can improve salinity tolerance in plants. But their combined effect has never been examined on watermelon therefore, present study investigated the effect of inoculation with the Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) along with silicon on the growth and yield parameters, antioxidant enzyme activities, pigment and mineral content of Citrullus lanatus L. plants grown during salt stress conditions. Outcomes from the study point out that salt stressed watermelon plants showed the best morphological and biochemical values when inoculated with Silicon (4 mM) + Glomus mosseae + Gigaspora gigantean. In addition, the plants inoculated by similar treatment demonstrated less osmotic activity, electrolyte leakage, as well as peroxide content. Treatments comprising Silicon (4 mM) with either Glomus mosseae and Gigaspora gigantean also performed significantly similar for most of the traits studied in the present investigation and better than the treatment only with either one of Glomus mosseae and Gigaspora gigantean. Antioxidant efficiency of melon was certainly appreciably enhanced after incubation with AMF and Si combination in salinity stress. Overall, the application of mycorrhiza and silicon can be considered to overcome the salinity stress in watermelon.

The purpose of this study was to determine and compare the effect of oven drying and spray drying treatments on the encapsulation of anthocyanin, flavonoid and phenolic extracted from watermelon rind. The analysis done in this work were as follow: total anthocyanin (TA), total flavonoid (TF) and total phenolic (TPC) content in the supernatant, yield of nanocapsule, Particle Size Analysis, and In Vitro test (test for flavonoid and phenolic release) in the supernatant food. The analysis results showed that the total anthocyanin content in watermelon rind with a spray drying treatment was 0.1113 mg/L, total flavonoid was 0.6159 g/mL, and total phenolic was 0.3410 g/mL. While using the oven, the anthocyanin content was 0.0891 mg/L, total flavonoid was 1.4590 g/mL, and total phenolic was 1.1349 g/mL. As noticed, the total content of anthocyanin resulted by using a spray dryer was greater than by using an oven. However, the total flavonoid and total phenolic resulted by using a spray dryer was smaller than by using an oven. During In Vitro analysis, the results of the release of flavonoid and phenolic resulted by using an oven into the distilled water were much larger and unstable than by using a spray dryer. This is likely because chitosan-Na (TPP) bonds are weak. Additionally, the yield of capsule on the use of spray dryer was 0.6, higher than the use of an oven, which was 0.48. While, the average particle size in the use of a spray dryer was 2.296 μm, smaller than the use of an oven, which was 61.998 μm.

Some crop growers hold the view that application of pesticides at higher than the manufacturer's recommended doses results in better pest control and crop productivity. The veracity of this perception was evaluated in field experiments at the experimental field of Federal University Wukari. A recommended insecticide and acaricide; ® Magicforce (Lambda-cyhalothrin 15g/L + Dimethoate 300 g/L) was evaluated against insect pests of watermelon (Citrullus lanatus Thunb.) and other associated beneficial arthropods. The experiments were laid in a Randomized Complete Block Design with five treatments (control inclusive). Data collected includes arthropod (pest and beneficial) densities, crop growth, and number of fruits at the early-fruiting stage which were analyzed using variance analysis after appropriate transformations. Student's t-test was used to compare early- and lateseason's variables while correlation and regression analyses were used to determine relationships between key variables. Results showed that plots treated with double the highest manufacturer's recommended dose of ® Magicforce (cost implication of ₦ 144,000) had lower pest (leaf beetle species and Bactrocera cucurbitae) and beneficial arthropod (predatory ants, spiders and Apis mellifera) densities than those treated with the lowest (cost – ₦ 48,000) and highest (cost – ₦ 72,000) recommended doses. Their plant growth (vine length and number of leaves) and fruit production were however comparatively lower though largely statistically comparable. The ® relationship between the quantity of Magicforce applied and number of fruits produced were though positive, 2 2 only moderate and insignificant in both early- (r = 0.665, R = 44.3%, p = 0.220) and late- (r = 0.659, R = 43.4%, p = 0.227) crops. The results revealed that the application of double the manufacturer's recommended dose of ® Magicforce (with its comparatively higher cost implication of 100 – 200%) suppressed growth of watermelon by 1.96 – 6.20%, and impeded fruit production by 9.14 – 13.30%. While there is need to verify the mechanism of this key finding, the need to source for genuine pesticides and follow manufacturer's recommended doses a re highlighted. Keywords: Arthropods, Insect pests, Organophosphate, Pesticide over-dose, Pyrethroid, Watermelon

Background Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) represents the largest cultivated member of the Cucurbitaceae family, showing great relevance from the economic point of view and largely consumed around the world accounting for about 7% of the world area dedicated to the production of vegetables, with 67% of the total quantity produced in China. It is characterized by several bioactive compounds, showing different chemical structures, such as carotenoids, xanthophylls, phenolic compounds, citrulline, and unsaturated fatty acids. The good amount of total polyphenols, vitamin C, citrulline and the excellent supply of lycopene, about 40% compared to raw tomatoes, give a measure of the importance of this fruit respect to the other crops considering the beneficial effects of these compounds on human health. Scope and approach In the last decades, this great interest towards natural bioactive compounds led many researchers to study watermelon as natural source of bioactive compounds, mainly when considering some biological properties, including antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities, inhibition or induction of enzymes, inhibition of receptor activities, together with induction/inhibition of gene expression. However, the most of scientific literature on this topic was based on in vitro assays, thus limiting the comprehensive understanding of the real health-promoting outcomes. Key findings and conclusions Therefore, the aim of this review was to present the up-to-date research carried out on watermelon phytochemicals, showing the most important biological activities reported from both in vitro and in vivo trials. Besides, the potential exploitation of watermelon by-products in the green circular economy and food-waste valorization has been discussed.

HIGHLIGHTS Growth and leaf area of mini watermelon in hydroponic cultivation are reduced at electrical conductivity above 4.00 dS m-1. Electrical conductivity of up to 6.90 dS m-1 does not reduce the net photosynthesis of mini watermelon in hydroponic cultivation. Coconut fiber is the best hydroponic substrate for mini watermelon. RESUMO Objetivou-se avaliar o crescimento e os aspectos fisiológicos da mini melancieira ‘Sugar Baby’ em sistema hidropônico com diferentes substratos e misturas de rejeito salino no preparo da solução nutritiva. Para isso, o experimento foi desenvolvido em estufa plástica, usando delineamento experimental de blocos casualizados, em esquema fatorial 5 x 4, correspondentes à combinação de cinco misturas de rejeito salino (condutividade elétrica - CE = 9,50 dS m-1) e água de torneira (CE = 0,54 dS m-1) e quatro tipos de substratos (fibra de coco, areia lavada, 70% areia lavada + 30% casca de arroz e 40% areia lavada + 60% casca de arroz), com quatro repetições. O uso da mistura de rejeito salino e água de torneira com CE acima de 4,00 dS m-1 no preparo da solução nutritiva da mini melancieira reduziu de forma acentuada o crescimento das plantas. O aumento da eficiência de carboxilação e da atividade na cadeia transportadora de elétrons, atuam como mecanismos de tolerância para compensar a fotossíntese líquida da mini melancieira sob estresse salino. A fibra de coco proporcionou o melhor crescimento e atividade fotossintética da mini melancieira, e o substrato com 100% areia lavada proporcionou o menor desempenho.

Aim: This study evaluated the antioxidant potentials of methanol seed, pericarp, mesocarp, and whole-fruit extracts and fractions of Citrillus lanatus. Methods: Various extracts and fractions (dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, n-butanol and aqueous) of Citrillus lanatus whole-fruit were investigated for 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging activities, total phenolic content (TPC) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP). Results: In the DPPH assay, the seed extract showed the highest activity (48%) followed by the whole-fruit extract (27%), pericarp (26%) and the mesocarp (22%) at 100 ug/ml. The whole-fruit fractions also showed improved activity with DCM fraction (64%), ethyl acetate (62%), aqueous fraction (46%) and n-butanol (24%) at 100 ug/ml but the activity observed with ascorbic acid, was much higher (84%). The seed extract had the highest phenolic content (14.30 mg) gallic acid equivalents per gram followed by the pericarp (9.58 mg/g), whole-fruit (6.94 mg/g) and mesocarp (2.78 mg/g). The DCM fraction exhibited the highest TPC (78.19 mg/g) followed by ethyl acetate (61.11 mg/g), aqueous (26.66 mg/g) and n-butanol (10.69 mg/g). FRAP assay showed strongest activity with the whole-fruit extract (0.640nm) followed by seed, mesocarp and pericarp extracts. The DCM fraction showed the highest antioxidant potential (0.735nm) followed by ethyl acetate, aqueous and n-butanol fractions but not comparable to ascorbic acid. Conclusion: The results revealed that C. lanatus seeds, pericarp, mesocarp and whole-fruit extracts and fractions contain varying amounts of flavonoids, tannins and phenolic compounds which exhibit potent antioxidant and free radical scavenging activities.

e studied the effects of exogenously applied palmitic acid (PA) on reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, defense-related enzyme activity and malondialdehyde (MDA) content of roots and analyzed the response of defense-related genes in Fusarium oxysporum f.sp.niveum (FON) inoculated watermelon (Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.) Matsum. et Nakai). Our results showed that as compared to control, PA reduced the morbidity of Fusarium wilt by 33.3 % and disease severity by 53.2 %, increased the level of ROS of watermelon roots at early infection stage and the activity of defense related enzymes, and decreased the MDA content of watermelon roots. Moreover, PA up-regulated the expression of disease defense-related genes. These results suggested that PA promoted the accumulation of ROS and up-regulated the transcript level of defense-related genes and eventually induced the systemic resistance in watermelon against FON.

The loss of methyl bromide led vegetable growers to rely more heavily on herbicides to control weeds. Although herbicides can be effective, limited options in vegetable production challenge growers. Identifying new, effective tools to be applied over plastic mulch before planting, for improved weed control with minimal crop injury, would be beneficial. The objective of these experiments was to evaluate the persistence of preplant applications of glyphosate (1,125 or 2,250 g ae ha-1) plus 2,4-D (1,065 or 2,130 g ae ha-1) or dicamba (560 g ae ha-1) over plastic mulch, using analytical techniques and subsequent yellow squash and watermelon response. Glyphosate and 2,4-D were not analytically detected at damaging concentrations on plastic mulch when at least 3.5 cm of rainfall was received after application and before planting. In addition, bioassay results showing less than 10% visual injury for either squash and watermelon, with no growth or yield suppression observed, supported analytical results. In contrast, dicamba concentrations on plastic mulch, regardless of rainfall amount or time between application and planting, remained at damaging levels. Squash yields were reduced by dicamba applied 1 to 30 d before planting, whereas watermelon was more resilient. 2,4-D plus glyphosate applied preplant over plastic mulch can provide an additional herbicide option for vegetable growers. More research is needed to understand the impact of residual activity of 2,4-D when transplants land directly in holes in plastic mulch at the time of application. The relationship of dicamba with plastic mulch is complex, because the herbicide cannot be easily removed by rainfall. Thus, dicamba should not be included in a weed management system in plasticulture vegetable production. Nomenclature: Glyphosate; 2; 4-D; dicamba; squash; Cucurbita pepo L.; watermelon; Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.) Matsum. & Nakai

The aim the current study was to developed a watermelon rind powder (WRP), watermelon pulp powder (WPP), and beetroot powder (BP), in order to compare the stability of L-citrulline and nitrate with that of watermelon rind juice (WRJ), watermelon pulp juice (WPJ), and beetroot juice (BJ), respectively. The stability was evaluated during 32 days at 25, 4 and - 20 ºC. L-arginine and L-ornithine content were also evaluated. At day 0, a significantly higher L-citrulline and L-ornithine content in WRP was observed when compared to WPP. However, a significantly lower L-arginine content in WRP was observed when compared to WPP. L-citrulline content in WRP and WRJ was stable over 32 days in all temperatures evaluated, whereas it reduced in WPP in 32 days at 25 ºC and it is reduced in in WPJ in day 16 and day 32 at 25 °C. L-arginine content in WRP and WPP was stable over 32 days in all temperatures evaluated. A reduction was observed in WRJ at day 2, 4 and 32 at 25 °C and in WPJ at day 2, 4, 8, 16 and 32 days at 25 °C. L-ornithine content in WRP and WPP was stable over 32 days in all temperatures evaluated. An increase was observed in WRJ at day 2, 4 and 32 at 25 °C and in WPJ in day 2, 4, 8, 16 and 32 at 25 °C. Nitrate content in BP was stable over 32 days in all temperatures evaluated, while nitrate content in beetroot juice was reduced in day 2 at 25 °C and day 8 at 4 °C. In conclusion, L-citrulline of the microencapsulated watermelon rind and nitrate of the microencapsulated beetroot were stable throughout storage.

Plants basically will continue to be the starting materials in making modern drugs. As a result of this, many believe in using herbal products than convectional drugs because of their easy accessibility, low side effects and affordability. Citrulluslanatus (popularly known as watermelon) is a citrus fruit known to contain among others, citrulline and lycopene with hepatoprotective actions on organs such as liver and kidney because of it bioactive and antioxidant properties. This study investigates the haemathological parameters and histopathological effects of crude C. lanatus juice on the liver and kidney of mice. Twenty five female mice weighing between 72 - 99g were randomly divided into five groups (A - E) of five mice each. Group A, were given water (control); group B, were given 2ml of watermelon flesh juice; group C, were given 2ml of watermelon flesh and seed juice, group D, were given 2ml of watermelon flesh and rind juice; and group E were given 2ml ofwatermelon flesh, seed and rind juice once daily for four weeks. At the end of experiment, animals were sacrificed and dissected. Blood sample were taken through cardiac puncture, liver and kidney tissue were excised also to determine the haematological and histopathological effects using routine diagnostic techniques. Highest blood and differential counts except WBC were obtained in groups exposed to crude C. lanatus juice when compared with the control.The liver of animals in all groups appears normal with no remarkable differences from the control. Also, no remarkable differences were recorded in the kidney of animals in all groups except group E which showed interstitial edema with some renal tubules within the cortex undergoing degeneration. From this study and at the dose and duration of study, every part of C. lanatushad no negative impact on the histopathology of the liver and kidney and also had the potential to boost the immune system. Keywords: Citrullus lanatus, haematology, histopathology, kidney, liver, mice

Lycopene is one of naturally occurring carotenoids in plants including watermelon (Citrullus lanatus). Heat, light, and oxygen effect on lycopene isomerization and degradation. Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) are drug delivery system which can enhance the stability of active compound. Therefore, this study aimed to develop watermelon extract loaded in NLCs for lycopene stability improvement. The NLCs were prepared using a hot homogenization technique. Cocoa butter was used as solid lipid. Grape seed oil was used as liquid lipid. Span® 80 and Plantasens® HE20 were used as an emulsifier. The selected unloaded NLCs contained solid lipid to liquid lipid at the ratio of 3:1 and 10% (w/w) of total lipid. The particle size of watermelon extract‐loaded NLCs (WH‐loaded NLCs) was 130.17 ± 0.72 nm with low PDI and high zeta potential. It also presented high entrapment efficiency. For stability study, the WH‐NLC3 could enhance stability and maintain lycopene content after stability test. It exhibited the highest values of lycopene content (83.26 ± 2.30%) when stored at 4°C. It also possessed a prolonged release pattern over 48 hr. Therefore, the NLCs could improve stability and release profile of lycopene from watermelon extract., The WH‐loaded NLCs were successfully prepared to enhance the stability and prolonged release profile of lycopene. It is a promising delivery system with a safe ingredient and an easy process for improving the stability of WH extract and other unstable extracts. Furthermore, it can further study for use in industry or high scale production.

Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.) Matsum. & Nakai was a climacteric variety with a high respiration rate and ethylene accumulation. Therefore the fruit matures and softeness quickly during post-harvest period. Calcium chloride was popularly utilized as stabilizing agent. 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) has been known to be highly effective inhibitor of ethylene reaction. This research evaluated the synergistic effect of CaCl2 and 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) treatment to weight loss, firmness, total soluble solid, carotenoid, ascorbic acid and decay rate of watermelon during storage. Results showed that a combination of 2.5% CaCl2 and 0.6 ppm 1-MCP in 20 min of immersion could extend watermelon shelf life for 15 days. After 15 days of ambient storage, the weight loss (1.43±0.02 %), firmness (4.38±0.00 N), total soluble solid (13.60±0.01 oBrix), carotenoid (16.31±0.02 µg/100g), ascorbic acid (13.36±0.03 mg/100g), decay rate (0.47±0.02 %) were clearly presented. Meanwhile, the treatment of 2.5% CaCl2 alone showed the weight loss (2.11±0.02 %), firmness (3.03±0.02 N), total soluble solid (10.83±0.02 oBrix), carotenoid (12.97±0.03 µg/100g), ascorbic acid (9.57±0.02 mg/100g), decay rate (2.14±0.01 %). The incorporation of CaCl2 and 1-MCP created a synergistic effect on the improved quality of watermelon fruit during ambient storage.

Highly prized by consumers, watermelon is rich in water, but also in micronutrients including lycopene, pigment responsible for the red color. It is also a powerful antioxidant which has many virtues including the prevention and treatment of certain diseases. The transformation into nectar of watermelons combined with treatment could cause several modifications including the alteration of coloring. It is in this context that this study focuses on the variation of the lycopene content in nectars. Thus, nectars of 12°Brix and 15°Brix were prepared from three varieties of watermelon (Sugar Baby, Crimson Sweet and Charleston Gray). To study the stability, two pasteurization scales (85°C/15min and 95°C/15min) and one sterilization scale (105°C/15min) were applied to the different nectars produced. The results obtained showed that the Sugar Baby variety is richer in lycopene (24.39 mg·kg-1) with a higher pH (5.80). In addition, the study showed, for the Sugar Baby variety, an increase of lycopene with the addition of sugar and the heat treatment (a maximum of 42.83 mg·kg-1 for SbF12T105). On the other hand, for the Crimson Sweet and Charleston varieties, the highest rate of lycopene, except the heat-treated ones, are those formulated at 12°B (10.46 mg·kg-1 for CrF12T105 and 18.40 mg·kg-1 for ChF12T105). Without any health consequences, the formulation combined with heat treatment would preserve the lycopene content of watermelon nectars.

Background: Nephourolithiasis is a term refers to kidney stones formation, due to aggregation of minerals leading to the development of crystalluria in kidneys or any part of the urinary tract system. Many herbs were used to fragment and crush renal calculi. Habitually, it is noted that people who suffer from kidney problems are advised to eat large quantities of watermellon fruit then, the patient feels healing, without knowing the scientific reason for this improvement. Objectives The current study was designed to investigate the antilithiatic effects of Fresh Watermelon Juice (FWJ) on calcium oxalate kidney stones. Methods Direct exposure technique between FWJ and enucleate stons was used. The pH, and electrical conductivity (EC) of the exposure solution in addition to the chemical and morphological properties of the renal calculi before and after exposure using X-ray diffraction method (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) were investigated. Results: after 24 hours of submerging renal calculi with FWJ, the calculi appeared dissolved and fragmented with absence of solidity, rigidity and crystallization. The Ph Value and electrical conductivity (EC) of FWJ increased significantly after 24 hours of submerging the calculi increasing total soluble solids and ion concentrations in the solution. X-ray diffraction showed sharp peaks and intensity of of calcium oxalate calculi indicating a significant change in calculus compositionn, shape and crysallization within 48 hours of exposure FWJ.Scanning electron microscope images of treated and untreated renal calculi showed a significant difference in the shape of the crystals that have been transformed from their regular shape as bipyramids with tetragonal crystal point group symmetry to sculpted and un coordinated particles with the absence of a regular geometric shape of crystals with no clear crystallization patterns. Conclusion: Fresh watermellone juice appears to have a strong effect on the shape and composition and integrity of renal calculi which may aid its expulsion from the body.

The objective of this research was to study the production of ice milk supplemented with watermelon seeds embryonic leavespowder (WSELP). Mixes of ice milk containing 2%, 4% and 6% (WSELP) were prepared. Chemical composition of (WSELP) indicated higher total phenolics and radical scavenging activity (RSA). The highest total solids, fat content, protein content, ash content, caloric value, pH, viscosity and overrun were observed in the samples supplemented with (WSELP) and this increasing was proportional to the supplementation ratio. While ice milk samples containing (WSELP) were the lowest acidity (as lactic acid) scores. The ice milk samples prepared with 6% (WSELP) had the highest scores when judged sensory and the degrees of sensory acceptance matched the control. The total plate count and psychrotrophic bacteria count of all produced ice milk formulations were within the safe levels, and the moulds & yeasts were not detected.

A exposicao aos raios solares e um processo de suma relevância para ajustar o metabolismo do corpo, principalmente para a producao de vitamina D, entretanto, a exposicao excessiva pode causar graves problemas a saude, tais como melasma, envelhecimento precoce, entre outros, decorrentes da producao de radicais livres ocasionado pela absorcao de raios UV no tecido. Uma alternativa para evitar isso esta no uso de protetores solares, por sua vez, causam efeitos colaterais devido a existencia de produtos quimicos adversos, alem de agredir o ecossistema. A especie Citrullus Lanatus (melancia) se destaca pela sua riqueza em antioxidantes e agua e por possuir propriedades antimicrobiana, antibacteriana, anti-inflamatoria, entre outras. Assim, esta pesquisa prontifica-se a apresentar uma alternativa natural, acessivel e eficaz para auxiliar nesta questao, baseado nas caracteristicas fitoquimicas da especie. Para tanto, foram preparados os extratos etanolicos das folhas e sementes da especie, quantificado os teores de fenois totais e flavonoides e determinado a acao antioxidante por meio do radical DPPH e β-Caroteno. Os teores de fenois calculados das folhas e sementes foram 196,66 ± 0,8 mg EqAG/g e 73,33 ± 0,39 mg EqAG/g, respectivamente. O teor de flavonoides calculado nas folhas foi de 25,00 ± 0,07 mg EqC/g e nas sementes de 37,5 ± 0,64 mg EqC/g. A melhor atividade antioxidante foi frente ao β -Caroteno, em que as sementes apresentaram IC50 =6,08 ± 3,66 e as folhas IC50 = 5,76 ± 4,06. Pelo metodo DPPH, obteve-se nas folhas o IC50= 62,70 ± 0,41 e nas sementes IC50= 194,58 ± 4,77. Ambos materiais apresentaram boa atividade fotoprotetora, para as sementes o Fator de Protecao Solar foi de 5,74 ± 0,07 e para as folhas foi 7,16 ± 0,09.

Since foods rich in L-citrulline are important for vascular health, it is important to determine the amount of this compounds in foods present in the human diet. Therefore, the present study evaluated storage stability of L-citrulline in cucumber rind and pulp juices and to compare them with watermelon rind and pulp juices. The L-citrulline stability was evaluated for 12 days at refrigerated condition (4 oC). Since L-arginine is an amino acid involved in L-citrulline metabolism, L-arginine content was also evaluated. On the initial day, L-citrulline content in cucumber rind and pulp was lower when compared to watermelon rind and pulp juices, respectively. A significative reduction in L-citrulline content in cucumber rind and pulp and watermelon pulp juices was observed in day 6 and day 12 when compared to the first day. However, L-citrulline content was stable for 12 days in watermelon rind juice. A significative reduction in L-arginine content was also observed in cucumber pulp and watermelon pulp juices, but not in cucumber rind and watermelon rind juices in day 6 and day 12 when compared to the first day. The results suggested that L-citrulline in cucumber rind and pulp and watermelon pulp juices were unstable at refrigerated conditions for 12 days.

Cucurbits are largely grown in tropical and subtropical areas for nutritional and medicinal purposes. In Senegal, two species, watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) and pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo), are cultivated and their use include consumption of flesh or the whole fruit. In general, people don’t give importance to seeds which can have nutritional properties of great interest. Hence, the relevance of this study whose objective is to assess the nutritional and therapeutic properties of seeds. For that purpose, the seeds of watermelon and pumpkin were air-dried, manually shelled, ground, and subjected to assays including physicochemical determination, characterization of oils, phytochemical screening and antioxidant analysis. Proteins (28.46 - 32.85 %), fat (36.3 - 39.7 %) and carbohydrates (23.6 - 13.9 %) were the main chemical components found in watermelon and pumpkin seeds. Micro-elements such as potassium, magnesium, phosphorous, calcium, and iron were also found with potassium showing the highest levels as 1026.07 and 635.00 mg/100 g for watermelon and pumpkin, respectively. Magnesium and phosphorous were the following minerals in terms of level content. The unsaturated fatty acids (UFAs) were predominant in seed oils with the linoleic acid most representative as 73.01 and 35.90% for watermelon and pumpkin, respectively. From the saturated fatty acids (SFAs), the palmitic acid was the most important. Phytochemical components in seeds include the presence of alkaloids, cardiac glycosides, flavonoids, and tannins in the ethanolic extracts of pumpkin and watermelon seeds. Regarding to the radical scavenging activity, relatively close values have been obtained for fractions from the ethanolic watermelon extract, the aqueous fraction showing the highest antioxidant activity (26.82%). For pumpkin, the highest values were registered for ethyl acetate and aqueous fractions as 36.17 and 35.36%, respectively. Therefore, seeds from watermelons and pumpkin cultivated in Senegal exhibited interesting nutritional and antioxidant properties which argue in favor of their use to overcome malnutrition issues.

Citrus fruits peels are very rich in pectin and can be used as source of pectin for its commercial production. Moreover, the citrus fruit peels contained several bioactive compounds, including carotenoids, essential oils, antioxidants and flavors are widely incorporated into food products in order to enhance their sensory properties and to improve their nutritional and health benefits. Therefore, aim of this study was to make use of lemon peels as a source of pectin in making watermelon jam along with different levels of sugar and pectin. Pectin was extracted from lemon peel by acid extraction method at pH 1.5, 80℃ for 1 hour. The physico-chemical, sensorial and microbiological properties of the formulated jam were assessed using standard AOAC methods. The physico-chemical analysis of freshly made watermelon jam revealed that an increasing trend in titratable acidity from 0.27 to 0.61% (as citric acid), moisture from 52.9 to 63.1% and decreasing trend in pH from 3.95 to 3.31 and total soluble solids from 68.1 to 66.1°Brix when the pectin levels increased from 1.8 to 3.3 g per 500g watermelon pulp. According to Kruskall-Wallis Method the mean scores of the sensory qualities in terms of color, taste, texture, aroma and overall acceptability varied significantly (p0.05) differences between in total plate count of all treatments. The results of this study revealed that the watermelon jam formulated with 65g of sugar, 2.8g of pectin and 500g of pulp was the best combination and it could be stored at 30±1℃ for 12 weeks without any significant changes in the quality characteristics. Therefore, pectin which was extracted from lemon peels can be used as an effective food additive in watermelon jam production.

The nutritive potential of water melon (Citrullus lanatus) seed meal as dietary protein source in the diet of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) using growth performance and nutrient utilization were evaluated in a 56 day feeding trial. One hundred and fifty tilapia fingerlings of average weight 6.12±0.05g were acclimatized for a week, weighed and allotted into five dietary treatments; containing 0, 15, 30, 45 and 60% Citrullus lanatus replacement levels with soybean meal respectively. The diets (35% crude protein and 10% lipid) were isonitrogenous and isolipidic. Each treatment was replicated three times with ten fish per replicate. Fish were fed 5% body weight on two equal proportions per day to determine weight gain, percentage weight gain, specific growth rate, food conversion ratio, protein efficiency ratio and net protein utilization. The result from the study indicated that there was no significant (p>0.05) differences in the FCR and PER between the fish fed control diets and the fish fed test diets.

The objective of the study was to determine the effect of climate-smart integrated fertilizer management on proximate qualities and lycopene contents of three watermelon (Citrullus lanatus)varieties grown in sandy loam soil. The experiment was conducted at the experimental farm of the Department of Agricultural Education, University of Nigeria, Nsukka between the months of Augustto October 2017cropping season. The experiment was laid out in a split-plot design, with three replications, three main plots (Citrullus lanatus varieties (Sugar baby, Koalack and Charleston grey))and six sub-plots (fertilization treatments). Climate-smart integrated fertilizer considered was combination of Goat manure (GM) and Nitrogen Phosphorus PotassiumNPK15: 15: 15 fertilizer which is regarded as most nutrient-rich fertilizer with climate change mitigation and adaptation potential. The study found that the pH of the watermelon varieties were statistically similar and that Charleston grey treated with 50 kg ha-1NPK + 15 t ha-1GM had the highest interactive effect on pH value which was statistically similar with 100 kg ha-1NPK + 10 t ha-1GM treatment. It was discovered that Koalack variety had the highest moisture contents when treated with 100 kg ha-1NPK + 10 t ha-1GM, crude protein content when treated with 150 kg ha-1NPK + 5 t ha-1GM, crude fibre content when treated with 20 t ha-1GM, ether extract and total soluble solid contents when treated with 50 kg ha-1NPK + 15 t ha-1GM. For the lycopene content, it was found that Sugar baby variety had the highest mean value (0.61g/100g) when compared with Charleston grey and Koalack varieties. Sugar baby variety treated with 20t/ha-1GM had highest (0.89g/100g) interactive effect when compared with other varieties and fertilizer treatments. In conclusion, the proximate qualities and lycopene contents of the three varieties increased with the increase in the amount of GM contents of the fertilizer combinations in sandy loam soil. Climate-smart integrated fertilizer improves the proximate qualities of Koalack variety and the lycopene contents of Sugar baby variety more than in other varieties grown in the same sandy loam soil. Therefore, climate-smart integrated fertilizer is recommended for the production of the identified Citrullus lanatus varieties as a nutrition sensitive production strategy in sandy loam soils by farmers in study area.

Aims: To produce and optimize biosurfactants from Citrullus lanatus seeds. Study Design: Randomized design. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Biochemistry Lab. and Department of Microbiology lab. University of Nigeria, Nsukka, between April and August, 2017. Methodology: Biosurfactants were produced in two fermentation media consisting of basal mineral medium+ watermelon (C. lanatus) seed (BMM+WMS), and Nutrient broth (NB). Optimization of production process was carried out with respect to time/duration of fermentation and pH of production which indicated 7 days fermentation period at pH 8.0. The Pseudomonas aeruginosa used was isolated from soil. The biosurfactants stability under some environmental conditions were studied using; Thermostability test at 30°C, 60°C, and 100°C; Halostability test with %w/v concentration of NaCl in; 2%NaCl, 5%NaCl, 7%NaCl, and 10%NaCl; pH stability test was conducted with pH 2.0, pH 4.0, pH 6.0, pH 8.0, pH 10.0, and pH 12.0. Results: Proximate analysis(%) showed; protein (0.317­ ± 0.02), lipid (17.66 ± 0.17), carbohydrate (62.77 ± 0.21), ash (2.33 ± 0.24), fibre (4.84 ± 0.79), and moisture (12.06 ± 0.17).The Emulsification index (E24) for the crude biosurfactant solutions (supernatants) that resulted from the two production media, and sodium dodecyl sulfate 1% SDS in distilled water (control) using palm oil (PO), olive oil (OO), engine oil (EO), kerosene (KR), and petrol (PT) for BMM+WMS biosurfactant gave PO (79.66±1.52%), OO (64.66±7.23%), EO (15.33±4.93%), KR (12.66±6.50%), and PT (0.00±0.00%). Also, the NB biosurfactant resulted in; PO (71.00±2.00), OO (54.33±3.78), EO (42.66±6.42), KR (22.66±7.57), and PT (0.00 ± 0.00) E24 values. There were significant decreases (p0.05) in WMS biosurfactant activity in palm oil compared to SDS surfactant activity in palm oil. Conclusion: The biosurfactants were shown to have high thermostablity as their E24 values increased with rise in temperature.

The common watermelon item (Citrullus lanatus) seeds were gained from castoffs verdant nourishments for use by decorating, sun ventilation and pulverizing. Light yellow-toned oil was gotten by dissolvable withdrawal using oil atmosphere and the going with traits were gotten using oil ether: pH, refractive rundown, thickness, dissolvable miscibility, coagulating temperature, fire nature, express gravity, streak point and warmth of consuming. With a shallow level of unsaturation, stepped level of smoothness, and proximity of raised degree of the sensible proportion of free unsaturated fats. The low assessment of the solidifying temperature of the oil offered a hint that the oil can be managed in various areas paying little heed to the qualification in temperature. The following level of linoleic destructive of the oil offers a hint of natural gradation of solidarity. Fatty esters are increasing expanding significance as a biodegradable swap for mineral oils. In some request regions, for example, cutting tool oil, gearbox, pressure-driven oils, and greases for raw petroleum creation, the oleochemical items are set up. Nonetheless, certain particular wellsprings of fatty esters are hitherto to be abused for this comparative reason. This exploration subsequently tests into one of the less used wellsprings of fatty esters in watermelon. The oil from the kernels demonstrations a top-notch yield presents significant utilitarian gatherings for change and thus was utilized to set up an assortment of oleochemicals which demonstrated excellence materials in contrast with the routinely utilized oils feed frameworks for oleochemicals after portrayal. The photopolymers acquired indicated piercing vinyl protons for consistent polymerize.

Pumpkin rootstock affects watermelon scion growth, fruit yield, and quality, but the mechanisms of related key enzymes and photosynthesis remain unclear. In this study, net photosynthetic rate (PN), chlorophyll (Chl) fluorescence parameters, fruit mass and sugar accumulation, and related key enzyme activities were determined during the fruit development stage in diploid and triploid watermelon lines and corresponding pumpkin rootstock-grafted lines. The results showed that pumpkin rootstock increased PN and Chl fluorescence parameters of diploid and triploid watermelon, indicating that pumpkin rootstock could increase photosynthesis, the utilization efficiency of light energy of diploid and triploid watermelon lines. Pumpkin-grafted lines had higher alkaline α-galactosidase activity and lower activities of insoluble acid invertase, sucrose phosphate synthase, and sucrose synthase than corresponding own-root lines in diploid and triploid watermelon. It indicates that pumpkin rootstock could increase the unloading of photoassimilates and reduce the conversion of photoassimilates into sucrose in diploid and triploid watermelon fruits.

Watermelon seed being an oily seed is prone to rapid deterioration of its quality, hence maintaining quality during storage is germane. The study therefore investigated the effect of crude plant powder, storage containers and storage duration on the seed quality of two varieties of watermelon seeds. Seed lots each of 100 g of each variety were treated with 10 g of four crude plant powders of clove basil leaf, red chilli pepper fruit, garlic, neem leaf and a synthetic fungicide. All samples were stored in three storage containers (envelope, tin and glass bottle). Treated seeds were stored under ambient conditions for 180 days. Germination and seedling vigour were determined at 180 day time course after storage. Data were subjected to mean separation using Duncan’s Multiple Range Test. Significant differences were observed in the quality traits examined in water melon due to differences in variety, seed treatment, storage container and storage period. ‘Kaolak’ was the best in storage in terms of seedling vigour and viability. Glass bottle was identified as the best storage container in maintaining seed quality of water melon throughout the storage period. The use of organic materials especially neem and clove basil leaf powder proved much better for maintaining germinability and seedling vigour and extension of seed longevity than inorganic material.

Two new phenolic glycosides, 2-caffeoyl-3-hydroxy-3-methylbutyric 4′-β- d -glucopyranosyloxy-3′-hydroxybenzyl ester and 2-caffeoyl-3-hydroxy-3-methylbutyric 4′-β- d -glucopyranosyloxybenzyl ester (citrulluside H and citrulluside T) were isolated from young fruits of Citrullus lanatus. Their structures were elucidated by spectroscopic analyses. These constituents exhibited weak antioxidant activity.

Seed watermelon kernel is a typical complex food with high fat and protein contents. During storage and processing, it is often affected by various factors to undergo interactions between components, which lead to its quality change. In this experiment, seed watermelon kernels were used as research objects, and the effects of 2′-Azobis (2-amidinopropane) dihydrochloride (AAPH) on seed watermelon kernel protein isolates (WMP) were investigated. The structure and digestion characteristics of WMP after oxidation were studied. The results showed that with the increase of AAPH concentration (0.05−5 mol/L), WMP showed obvious aggregation, and its solubility decreased from 6.76 mg/mL to 9.59 mg/mL. The free sulfhydryl content of WMP was 18.24 mmol/g decreased to 11.25 mmol/g, α-helix decreased and β-sheet decreased in secondary structure, and its disulfide bond increased by 43.06 mmol/g from 39.57 mmol/g, enthalpy (ΔH) and denaturation temperature increased (Td) (P

The study was conducted in March-May 2020 in greenhouse in Erzincan Horticultural Research Institute. Sahra F1 variety of watermelon (Citrulus lanatus) was used as plant material in the experiment. In this study, the effects of different doses (0, 25, 50, 75, 100, 125, 150 and 175 ppm) of Tebuconazole substance on the quality and development of watermelon seedlings were investigated. It was determined that different dose applications caused a significant change in seedling characteristics According to the data obtained, a average reduction of 38.45% and 17.81% was achieved in seedling length and stem length, respectively, compared to the control application. Also, the stem diameter increased in 3.03% after the applications. The all doses applications also provided an increase in leaf chlorophyll content (SPAD). In this study, applications of Tebuconazole at different doses were found to control the seedling height in watermelon and positively affected on specific quality characteristics of seedlings.

This study aimed to evaluate the gas exchanges and growth of ‘Sugar Baby’ watermelon under different strategies of irrigation with saline water and potassium fertilization, in an experiment conducted in a protected environment. The experiment was conducted in randomized blocks, in 8 x 3 factorial arrangement, corresponding to eight water salinity management strategies applied at the phenological stages of the crop (NS = no stress along the cycle; VE = salt stress during vegetative stage; VE/FL = salt stress during vegetative and flowering stages; FL = salt stress during flowering stage; FL/FR = salt stress during flowering and fruiting stages; FR = salt stress during fruiting stage; FR/MAT = salt stress during fruiting and maturation stages; MAT = salt stress during fruit maturation stage) and three potassium doses – KD (corresponding to 50, 100 and 150% of the recommendation), with three replicates. Two levels of water salinity were used, high and low values of electrical conductivity (ECw = 0.8 and 4.0 dS m-1). Watermelon growth and gas exchanges, especially transpiration, stomatal conductance, CO2 assimilation rate, instantaneous carboxylation efficiency, and absolute and relative growth rates of stem diameter were compromised by water salinity at the stages of flowering, fruiting and maturation. The potassium dose with 50% of K2O recommendation can be used in the cultivation of watermelon, without negatively affecting gas exchange and growth.

The current study was intended to evaluate the chemical composition, functional properties, and physical properties of some cucurbits seed. Chemical composition, functional properties of sweet melon (Cucumis melo var. reticulatus), sweet melon (Cucumis melo var. aegyptiacus) watermelon (Citrullus lanatus), citron melon (Citrullus lanatus var. Colocynthoides). Pumpkin (Cucurbita maxima), and summer squash (Cucurbita pepo), were studied as well as the characteristics of their seed oils. The seeds are rich in protein, crude fat, and crude fiber. The seeds contained high amounts of K, Mg, Na, Fe, and Mn. Water and fat absorption capacities, emulsification properties, and foam stability were fairly good in all seeds. Data obtained for the oils’ characteristics agree well with those of other edible vegetable oils. The obtained results revealed that the seeds presented an alternative source of vegetable oil. Seeds could be added to food systems such as bakery products.

The adjustment in the growing season associated with cultural practices can mitigate the negative effects of salinity on crop production. In this context, the objective of this study was to evaluate the production components of watermelon cv. Crimson Sweet under the effects of irrigation with saline water, soil cover and potassium doses in crops during dry and rainy seasons. The treatments were arranged in a split plot with 2 x 2 x 4 scheme, with the electrical conductivity of the irrigation water (0.3 and 3.0 dS m-1) in the main plot, and the combinations between soil mulch (without and with) and doses of potassium (0, 40, 80 and 120 kg ha-1 of K2O) in the subplots, distributed in randomized blocks. Final stand, number of fruits per plant, average fruit weight, production per plant and yield were evaluated. The data were subjected to analysis of variance and potassium doses were evaluated by regression. In the rainy season, watermelon was more productive than in the dry season even under irrigation, with higher number of fruits and production per plant and yield. Irrigation using water with electrical conductivity of 3.0 dS m-1 should be used with moderation in watermelon crop, as it did not compromise yield. Potassium chloride application is not recommended in soil with intermediate potassium content, because it reduced the number of fruits per plant and yield. The use of mulch is recommended in watermelon cultivation, since it increased the number of fruits and production per plant.

Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) is a vine-like flowering originally from Southern Africa. The microbial fermentation of watermelon seeds for me production of bioethanol was investigated. The seeds were washed dried and grounded into powder. The seed powder was then fermented for bioethanol production and the microorganisms responsible for the fermentation were isolated and characterized. Bioethanol was distilled from the fermentation. The distilled bioethanol was subjected to comparative analysis with ’the conventional ethanol. Proximate analysis of the grinded seed was carried out before and after fermentation. The organisms responsible for fermentation were identified as Lactobacillus bulgaricus, Bacillus cereus, Streptococcus lactis, Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus sp, Micrococcus spp, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Fusarium oxysporium, Mucor mucedo, Penicillium notatum, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Aspergillus fumigatus and Aspergillus niger. There was an increase in the protein content of the seed from 4.269% in the unfermented to 10.031% in the fermented. While carbohydrate reduced from 70.523% in the unfermented to 50.149% in the fermented seed. Fat content increased as well as crude fibre content. The distilled bioethanol boils at 78.4% and as a melting point of -112°C at 15°C. The refractive index was 1.360 and the flash point was 12°C. It burns with blue flame. Considering the comparison between the bioethanol produced from Citrullus lanatus seeds with the conventional ethanol, it can be used as an alternative source of biofuel.

Diet containing watermelon coloring (5, 20, 35 and 50 mg lycopene/100g) was fed to albino rats to study in-vivo bioavailability of lycopene. The rats were fed with lycopene enriched test diets for ...

A introdução de cultivares de soja resistentes ao dicamba possivelmente aumentará o uso desse herbicida no manejo de plantas daninhas no Brasil. Parte de todo herbicida aplicado atinge o solo, provocando intoxicação de culturas cultivadas em sucessão e contaminação do solo e da água. Nesse sentido, a seleção de espécies indicadoras para realização de bioensaios se torna uma importante ferramenta para avaliar o comportamento desse herbicida no ambiente. O objetivo do estudo foi identificar plantas sensíveis ao herbicida dicamba, para fim de indicação de resíduo desse herbicida no solo. O estudo foi conduzido em casa de vegetação, utilizando delineamento inteiramente casualizado, em esquema fatorial 6x10, com quatro repetições. Sendo, o primeiro fator composto pelas espécies de plantas (Phaseolus vulgaris, Citrullus lanatus, Cucumis sativus, Beta vulgaris, Glycine max e Solanum lycopersicum), e o segundo fator pelas doses do herbicida dicamba (0; 4,5; 9,0; 18,0; 36,0; 54,0; 72,0; 108,0; 144,0; 216,0 g de e.a ha-1), utilizando como substrato inerte areia lavada. Aos 14 e 21 dias após a emergência foram atribuídas notas de intoxicação as plantas e coletado a parte aérea. Os mais altos valores de intoxicação visual foram observados nas culturas do feijão e soja, já melancia, pepino, beterraba e tomate também se comportaram de forma sensível, no entanto, com valores de C50 mais altos. Os sintomas visuais de intoxicação e a produção de massa seca destacam o feijão como a espécie mais indicada para a avaliação da presença de resíduos do herbicida dicamba.