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Energy bars are considered a healthy food alternative due to the different properties attributed to them. The research aimed to evaluate the influence of amaranth and melon seeds on the nutritional composition of an energy bar intended for human consumption. A unifactorial design with three treatments T1 (45% amaranth, 15% melon seeds), T2 (30% amaranth, 30% melon seeds), T3 (15% amaranth, 45% melon seeds) was used to prepare the bars. energetic. Proximal analysis of protein, ash, fat, fiber, moisture, carbohydrates, and energy were performed on each of the formulations. A sensory evaluation of each of the treatments was carried out in which the attributes of smell, color, flavor, texture and general appearance were evaluated; A total of 20 untrained panelists were used for this. The results were analyzed with the statistical program InfoStat. The proximal analysis shows that the content of protein, ash and fiber was higher in the T2 treatment with a total of 11.03%, 12.59% and 13.43%, respectively. The fat, moisture and energy contents were higher in the T3 treatment with a total of 13.74%, 5.62% and 3820.85%. While the highest carbohydrate content was presented in treatment T1 with 67.14%. The evaluation of the organoleptic properties of taste, smell, color, texture and general appearance was better in the T3 treatment. The inclusion of the different levels of amaranth flour and melon seeds showed favorable results of the proximal and sensory characteristics (color, smell, flavor, texture and general appearance).

OBJECTIVE A method for measuring intracranial pressure (ICP) noninvasively has long been sought after in neurology and neurosurgery. Treatment failure in individuals presenting with unspecific symptoms such as headache, gait disturbance, or visual impairment occurring in response to increased ICP can lead to irreversible brain injury, progressive disability, and death. Guidelines for diagnostic ICP measurement recommend intracranial placement of pressure tip catheters or lumbar puncture (LP) despite their invasiveness and possible complications. As ICP fluctuations are closely associated with changes in brain stiffness, ultrasound elastography could be a valid method to detect ICP noninvasively and with short examination times. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this pilot study, we have investigated the use of time-harmonic shear waves, introduced into the brain by an external shaker, and measured in real-time by transtemporal ultrasound, for deducing a noninvasive imaging marker sensitive to elevated ICP. To this end, we developed cerebral ultrasound time-harmonic elastography for the noninvasive quantification of shear wave speed (SWS) as a surrogate marker of cerebral stiffness in a short examination time of a few minutes. RESULTS We found that SWS in patients enrolled for LP with confirmed intracranial hypertension was 1.81 ± 0.10 m/s, distinguishing them from healthy volunteers with excellent diagnostic accuracy (1.55 ± 0.08 m/s; P < 0.001; area under the curve, 0.99). Interestingly, values in symptomatic patients decreased to normal stiffness immediately after LP (1.56 ± 0.06 m/s, P < 0.001). Moreover, invasively measured opening pressure correlated with SWS measured before LP and liquid volume drained through the spinal tap with the SWS difference between the 2 measurements. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, our results suggest a tight link between cerebral stiffness and ICP and demonstrate that intracranial hypertension can be detected noninvasively within short examination times, opening avenues for diagnostic applications of cerebral ultrasound time-harmonic elastography in neurology and emergency medicine.

Extramammary Paget’s disease (EMPD) is a rare, locally aggressive cutaneous adenocarcinoma which typically involves the anogenital region. The prognosis heavily depends on early diagnosis with definitive surgical treatment. To reduce local recurrence, wide radical resection with margin control and Moh’s micrographic surgery are conventionally recommended. We describe a case of a 65-year-old female with extensive perineal EMPD involving the vulva, vagina, ectocervix, urethra, and anal canal, extending to the sacral region. She required pelvic exenteration and skin resection with 5-cm margins. A rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap (OFRAM) was designed with a fleur-de-lis skin paddle, with the vertical limb extended in an oblique fashion. We name this the OFRAM design and it allows maximal recruitment of abdominal tissue for the reconstruction of massive pelvic defects. The oblique limb obliterated the pelvic floor defect after the pelvic exenteration, while the horizontal limbs were used to resurface the perineal defect. One week later, after formal histology confirmed oncologic clearance, a gluteal keystone flap was used to resurface the remnant posterior defect. We discuss the disease pathology and reconstructive options in such cases. Level of Evidence: Level V, therapeutic study.

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 ...

Black and white or fleur-de-lis high comb morions are distinctive helmets of the late 16th century and early 17th century. We constructed a typology of black and white high comb morions, identifyin...

Refresh! Look back and feel invigorated all over again. Like Little Jack or Jill Horner, Put in your thumb, and pull out a plum (I hope most readers still remember that nursery rhyme) … 1977 was th...

Objective To investigate if visuomotor coordination of hand movements is impaired in patients with normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) identified by dedicated testing procedures. Methods Forty-seven patients admitted for diagnostic workup for suspected NPH were studied prospectively with MRI, testing of cognitive and motor functions, lumbar puncture, and visuomotor coordination of hand movements using the PABLOR-device before and after a spinal tap of 40–50 ml CSF. Statistical analyses were carried out with repeated measures ANOVA and non-parametric correlation analyses. Results Fourteen patients were found to suffer from ideopathic NPH. They were severely impaired in visuomotor control of intermittent arm movements in comparison to patients who were found not to be affected by NPH (n = 18). In the patients with NPH the deficient arm control was improved after the spinal tap in proportion to the improvement of gait. There was no improvement of cognitive and motor functions in the patients not affected by NPH, while the patients with possible NPH (n = 15) showed intermediate deficit and improvement patterns. Interpretation: Our data underline the importance of a multiparametric assessment of NPH and provide evidence for a motor control deficit in idiopathic NPH involving leg and arm movements. It is suggested that this motor control deficit resulted from an affection of the output tracts from the supplementary motor area in the periventricular vicinity.

The Fleur-de-Lis panniculectomy (FdL) adds a vertical component to correct complex contour deformities after massive weight loss by addressing supra-umbilical horizontal skin excess which is not addressed with infra-umbilical transverse panniculectomy (TP). We aim to perform a head-to-head comparison of clinical outcomes and patient reported outcomes (PROs) between FdL and TP. A retrospective review of patients ≥18 with a history of bariatric surgery undergoing FdL or TP by a single plastic surgeon between 07/01/2015 and 05/31/2020 was conducted. Surgical site occurrences (SSOs) including surgical site infection (SSI), delayed healing, cellulitis, seroma, hematoma, surgical site occurrences requiring procedural intervention (SSOpi), and a composite of other postoperative outcomes were assessed. In addition, patient satisfaction was analyzed using the Body-Q questionnaire across 12 domains. The analysis included 56 patients; 26 and 30 patients who were treated with FdL and TP, respectively. Cohorts were statistically similar in terms of age, gender, BMI, and co-morbid conditions. The overall complication rate was 50% (FdL n = 14 (53.9%), TP n = 14 (46.7%); p = 0.592). On multivariate analysis, pannus weight was associated with the development of SSO (p = 0.04). FdL incision, however, was not an independent risk factor for adverse outcomes. Absolute improvement in PROs was similar in both cohorts across multiple domains. FdL showed a comparable safety and efficacy profile to TP when performed in post-bariatric surgery patients, with equivalent improvement in PROs across multiple domains. Preoperative weight loss should be encouraged in this population as pannus weight is an independent risk factor for complications. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

В статье представлены результаты изучения применения регуляторов роста Циркон и Гумат калия при выращивании дыни на семенные цели. Цель исследования: разработка новых агротехнических приемов выращивания дыни, направленных на увеличение выхода семян с единицы площади, высокого качества и сортовой чистоты. Исследования проводили в 2019–2020 годах на Быковской бахчевой селекционной опытной станции – филиале ФГБНУ «Федеральный научный центр овощеводства», расположенной в Волгоградской области РФ. Объект исследований – среднеспелый сорт дыни Осень. Опыты закладывали в соответствии с общепринятыми методическими указаниями. Расход препаратов был выбран в соответствии с рекомендациями производителя. Норма рабочего раствора – 300 л/га. Схема посева 2,1×1,0 м. Предшественник – пар. Установлено, что применение регуляторов роста в системе семеноводства дыни – эффективный прием получения качественного семенного материала на светло-каштановых почвах Волгоградского Заволжья. Максимальный выход семян с единицы площади в 2019 году был получен в варианте с применением препарата Циркон для обработки вегетирующих растений – 157,4 кг/га, что на 14,2% больше по сравнению с контролем и на 4,6% больше по сравнению с вариантом обработки растений Гуматом калия. В 2020 году наибольший урожай семян дыни был получен в варианте с применением препарата Циркон для обработки растений, что на 6,5–21,5% больше по сравнению с другими изучаемыми препаратами и способами их применения. Сравнительная оценка массы 1000 семян в 2019 году показала, что самые высокие показатели также были отмечены в варианте с применением препарата Циркон для обработки растений, что на 3,5% больше по сравнению с вариантом обработки растений Гуматом калия и на 18,2% больше по сравнению с контролем. Аналогичные данные по массе 1000 семян были получены и в 2020 году.The article presents the results of studying the use of growth regulators Zircon and Potassium Humate in the cultivation of melon for seed purposes. The purpose of the study: to develop new agrotechnical methods of growing melons aimed at increasing the yield of seeds per unit area, high quality and varietal purity. The research was carried out in 2019–2020 at the Bykovsky melon selective experimental station – the branch of the Federal State Budgetary Institution «Federal Scientific Center for Vegetable Growing», located in the Volgograd Region of the Russian Federation. The object of research is a medium-ripened variety of melon Osen. The experiments were laid in accordance with generally accepted methodological guidelines. The consumption of herbal drugs was selected in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations. The norm of the working solution is 300 l/ha. The seeding scheme is 2.1×1.0 m. The predecessor is complete fallow. It is established that the use of growth regulators in the melon seed production system is an effective method for obtaining high-quality seed material on light chestnut soils of the Volgograd Volga region. The maximum yield of seeds per unit area in 2019 was obtained in the variant with the use of the drug Zircon for the treatment of vegetative plants – 157.4 kg/ha, which is 14.2% more compared to the control and 4.6% more compared to the variant of plant treatment with Potassium Humate. In 2020, the largest yield of melon seeds was obtained in the variant with the use of the herbal drug Zircon for plant treatment, which is 6.5–21.5% more compared to other studied herbal drugs and methods of their use. A comparative assessment of the mass of 1000 seeds in 2019 showed that the highest rates were also noted in the variant with the use of the drug Zircon for plant treatment, which is 3.5% more compared to the variant of plant treatment with Potassium Humate and 18.2% more compared to the control. Similar data on the weight of 1000 seeds were obtained in 2020.

A fifty-six (56) day experiment was conducted to evaluate the growth performance and feed utilization in Clarias gariepinus fingerlings fed with six iso-nitrogenous diets in which oven-dried melon (Citrillus lanatus) seed peel meal (MSPM) was substituted for yellow maize at 0, 20, 40, 60, 80 and 100% inclusion levels. A total of 270 fingerlings of C. gariepinus (mean weight: 7.40 ± 0.02 g) were randomly allocated into eighteen plastic bowls (50-litre capacity) at 15 fish per bowl and fed the control and experimental diets twice daily at 5% of their body weight. Proximate composition of melon seed peel meal-supplemented diets and fish carcass was determined using standard procedures. Results showed that crude protein was highest (60.75%) in fish fed diet 2 (20% MSPMsupplemented diet) and least (58.21%) in fish fed diet 4 (60% MSPM-supplemented diet). Fish fed diet 2 (20%MSPM-supplemented diet) had statistically (p < 0.05) superior values of MWG (48.27 g), SGR (1.56%/day) and FCR (0.48) beyond which growth and feed utilization indices gradually declined with increased level of MSPM inclusion. This study demonstrated that 20% substitution level of oven-dried melon seed peel meal produced the best growth and feed utilization in C. gariepinus. Keywords: Melon seed peel, Clarias gariepinus, Growth performance, Feed utilization

Effects of cooking on proximate, phytochemicals and selected vitamins composition of melon and walnut were investigated in this study. Melon Seeds (MS) and Walnut Seed (WS) weighing 500 g each were obtained from open market and each was halved into two. One half o was boiled for one hour and oven dried at 60 C for 48 hours till constant weight was attained to obtain treated melon seed and treated walnut seed, respectively. The other halves were left un-cooked and were labelled uncooked melon seed and uncooked walnut seed, respectively. In MS, cooking reduced the crude protein, crude fibre and ash compositions but increased the moisture and ether extracts contents significantly (p0.05). Aside from flavonoids which increased (p0.05) by cooking. Ascorbic acid and tocopherol in MS as well as â-carotene and ergosterol contents were not affected significantly (p>0.05) by cooking. However, the â-carotene of 0.16 and ergosterol of 0.57 in raw MS reduced significantly (p

This study was carried out to examine the comparative effects of coconut oil (CO), avocado oil (AO), and melon seed oil (MSO) on the growth performance, blood, biochemical, hematological parameters, and total microbial loads of Noiler birds. A total of 120 Noiler birds with an average weight of 50.3 ± 0.13 g were randomized into four treatment groups with 3 replications (10 per pen) for six weeks of fattening. Weekly body weight gain and daily feed intake of the birds were recorded for six weeks, after which average weight gain and feed conversion ratios were calculated. At the end of the feeding trials, blood samples were collected for biochemical and hematological parameter assessments, and the digesta from the colon and ileum were collected for their intestinal total microbial load analysis. The average weight gains and feed conversion ratios (FCR) of the birds supplemented with CO (1229.40 ± 15.00) and MSO (1232.66 ± 43.18) were observed to be significantly higher (P < 0.05), compared to the birds supplemented with AO (1110.73 ± 18.29) and the birds fed feed only (1034.79 ± 2.04) having the least weight gained. The biochemical parameters of the birds across the treatment were not significantly different (P > 0.05). White blood cells, packed cell volume, red blood cells and lymphocytes were significantly higher in the CO group compared to the birds supplemented with the avocado oil and melon seed oil. There was no significant difference (P > 0.05) in the weight of the spleen, bursa and gall bladder among the birds. The Lactobacillus spp. in the colon of birds supplemented with coconut oil (6.43 ± 0.56) and melon oil (6.25 ± 0.65) were significantly higher. It can be concluded that coconut oil and melon seed oil have the potential to serve as growth promoters for chicken production.

An improved designed and constructed melon seed sheller with continuous separator comprises of electric motors, hopper, shelling, and separator units for separating melon seed from its shell, was developed. This machine which was fabricated using locally sourced standard materials by eliminating the drudgery involved in the melon kernel separation. As we know that melon seed is a vital oil seed that is mostly used in food industries. Shelling of this crop is a problem due to the stress and time that is involved, prior to its usage. In order to address these challenges associated with shelling and separating the melon from its kernel, an improved design of melon shelling machine of melon seeds for both commercial and a small scale was presented and evaluated in this research work. Parameters evaluated include shelling efficiency, percentage seed shelled, and output volume with time and general machine capacity. The machine was constructed using locally available materials and consists of a hopper, frame, shelling and cleaning unit, chutes and prime mover. Shelling speeds of the machine and seed moisture content of melon affects the rate, efficiency and percentage seed damage. Adopting this design concept is recommended because it minimizes seed breakage during manual shelling, it also enhanced hygiene as human direct contact with the seed during shelling is reduced. KEY WORDS: Improved design, melon seed, melon kernel, performance evaluation, efficiency.

Turkish delight, which is produced from sugar, starch and water as raw materials and can be enriched with different flavors and aromas, is a traditional dessert widely consumed around the world. Although there are many types of Turkish delight, capsicum pepper powder (CPP) and natural cheese aroma (NCA) added Turkish delights are not consumed in Turkey. In this study, the potential use of CPP and NCA in the production of flavored Turkish delights was studied to obtain a unique taste, flavor and color, and also the physical, chemical and sensorial properties of Turkish delights containing three different ratios of CPP and NCA were determined. For this purpose, capsicum pepper was dried and powdered, and commercial natural Cheddar cheese flavor was used to provide cheesy characteristic to Turkish delights. In capsicum pepper and cheese flavored Turkish delights, the ratios of CPP were 0.1, 0.3 and 0.5% (w/w) while the ratios of NCA were 6.5, 10.0 and 12.5% (w/w). The physicochemical properties such as color, dry matter and ash contents, total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC) and antioxidant activities and the sensory properties of Turkish delight samples were determined. The highest L* values were found in Turkish delights with 6.5% and 10.0% NCA concentrations (p0.05). Sensory analysis results indicated that Turkish delights containing 12.5% NCA had a high acceptability score, and CPP added Turkish delights were equally liked by panelists. In conclusion, CPP and NCA flavorings could be used in the production of Turkish delights for the development of a novel dessert product with a high consumer acceptability, and might provide health beneficial functional components.

Astrocytoma is the most common and aggressive brain tumor, in its highest grade, the prognosis is ‘low survival rate’. Spinal tap and biopsy are the methods executed in order to determine the grade of astrocytoma. Once the grade of astrocytoma is determined, treatment is planned to improve the life expectancy of oncological subjects. Spinal tap and biopsy are invasive diagnostic procedures. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) being widely used imaging modality to detect brain tumors, produces the large volume of MRI data each moment in clinical environments. Automated and reliable methods of astrocytoma grading from the analysis of MRI images are required as an alternative to biopsy and spinal tape. However, obtaining molecular information of brain cells using non-invasive methods is challenging. In this research work, an automatic method of astrocytoma grading using Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) has been proposed. Results have been validated on a locally developed dataset, obtained from Department of Radiology (Diagnostics), Bahawal Victoria Hospital, Bahawalpur, Pakistan. The proposed method proved a significant achievement in terms of accuracy as 99.06% (for astrocytoma of Grade-I), 94.01% (for astrocytoma of Grade-II), 95.31% (for astrocytoma of Grade-III), 97.85% (for astrocytoma of Grade-IV), and overall accuracy of 96.56%.

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is the most common endocrine disorder of human. However, the anti-diabetic activity of protein isolates from fermented plants seed for DM remains enigmatic. The prevalence of diabetes in Africa is exponentially increasing with more deaths occurring directly from diabetes mellitus or from its associated complications. The current study investigated the effect of Protein isolate from fermented melon seeds (Ogiri; OPI) of Cucumeropsis manni on blood glucose, hepatic and pancreatic protein profile, histopathological parameters, identification and characterisation of expressed proteins in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. Thirty Male wistar rats were divided into nondiabetic control, STZ-diabetic control, STZ-Ogiri protein isolate supplemented group (STZ-OPI; 200 mg/kg diet), STZ-Ogiri protein isolate supplemented group (STZ-OPI; 600 g/kg diet) and STZ-glibenclamide treated group (STZ-GBN; 0.5 mg/kg diet). Diabetes was induced by a single injection of STZ (60 mg/kg BW) freshly dissolved in 0.1 mol/L citrate buffer (pH 4.5) into the intraperitonium. Diabetes was confirmed by measuring the fasting blood glucose concentration 48-h post-injection. The rats with blood glucose level above 290 mg/dL were considered to be diabetic. Ogiri protein isolates was supplemented in the diet for 6 weeks. The supplementation OPI reduced (P< 0.05) the blood glucose concentration of the STZ-induced diabetic rats. OPI supplemented groups had significantly higher percentage body weight gain. The high dose OPI supplemented group had a lowest liver protein concentration (19.39 mg/dl) but a significantly (P< 0.05) higher pancreas protein concentration when compared to all the diabetic control. Histological sections of examined tissue revealed accumulation of fat in the liver of diabetic rats and necrosis of the islet of Langerhans were observed in the pancreas. 1DE SDS-PAGE of hepatic and pancreatic tissue homogenates revealed differential expression of 150 kDa proteins in rats treated with 200 mg/kg body weight of OPI only and 20-25 kDa proteins in rats treated with 600 mg/kg body weight of OPI respectively. This result show that OPI supplementation may impose a direct or indirect inhibitory or post translational modification on specific proteins implicated in hyperglycemia and diabetes and as such be a potential antihyperglycemic agent in the management of diabetes.

Antifungal property of A. paniculata on fungal isolates from Citrullus colocynthis was investigated. Citrullus colocynthis were bought from traders in a major market in Abia State, Nigeria. The melon seeds were first cleaned and disinfested by keeping them in a freezer at -50C for 7 days to kill all hidden infestations. The disinfested seeds were dried in a Gallenkamp oven at 40oC for 4 hours before they were stored in plastic sterile containers with tight lids. Fresh plant of A. paniculata was collected from botanical garden of the Rivers State University and was identified in the botany department. The leaves of the plant were shade dried and blended into fine powder. Twenty grams (20g) of the powdered leaves was extracted using methanol and ethanol. The filtrate was evaporated and the resulting crude extract was used for antifungal sensitivity test. Fungi associated with rotted C. colocynthis were identified using standard microbiological methods. The antifungal activity of the extracts was carried out using the well in agar diffusion method. In this method, 48 hours old fungal isolate was inoculated on dried Sabouraud Dextrose Agar plates in duplicates. five wells were bored using sterile 6mm cork borer on the dried seeded plates before 0.2ml of the different concentrations of 100, 50, 25, and 12.5mg/ml of the methanol extracts were transferred into the wells using sterile pipettes. Aspergillus flavus, Rhizopus arrhizus, Aspergillus niger, Rhizopus sp and Mucor sp were identified from the melon seeds. The zone diameters of methanolic extract of A. paniculata on Rhizopus arrhizus, A. niger, A. flavus, Rhizopus sp and Mucor sp were 11.50±0.71, 19.50±0.71, 34.50±0.71, 15.00±0.00 and 17.00±0.00mm, respectively. The zone diameters of ethanolic extract of A. paniculata on Rhizopus arrhizus, A. niger, A. flavus, Rhizopus sp and Mucor sp were 0.00±0.00, 16.50±0.71, 34.50±0.71, 20.50±0.71 and 0.00±0.00mm, respectively. There were significant differences (P ≤ 0.05) in the antifungal activity of the extract across the fungal isolates. The antifungal activity of the leave extracts showed that the ethanolic extract and the methanolic extract were very active on the fungal isolates and the antifungal activities of the extract was greatly influenced by the concentration of the extract, with higher concentrations of extract having high zone diameter.

After massive weight loss (MWL), patients present with deformities that are more severe and often different than those observed in standard cosmetic abdominoplasty. The first step is careful consideration of the special factors involved in preoperative screening of patients with MWL presenting for body contouring surgery. Once these patient factors are optimized and surgery is considered, careful analysis of anatomic deformities should ensue. Technical variations of standard abdominoplasty are often required. With proper attention to safe screening, analysis of the anatomic deformities, and application of relevant techniques, plastic surgeons can have a positive impact on the lives of these patients.

Some data suggested that the seeds of water melon may have therapeutic benefits. We here attempted to determine ameliorative effects of aqueous extract of Citrullus lanatus (water melon) seeds on alloxan-induced hepato- and nephrotoxicity on wistar rats. Rats were divided into 11 groups, with each group consisting of 3 rats. Groups 2-11 received single dose of 120 mg/kg b.wt. of alloxan monohydrate intraperitoneally. Groups 4 and 5 orally received a dose of 100 mg/kg b.w. of metformin for 7 & 21 days. Groups 6, 8 and 10 orally received 200 mg/kg b.w., 400 mg/kg b.w., and 600 mg/kg b.w. of the extract respectively for 7 days while groups 7, 9 and 11 orally received same doses respectively for 21 days. The most abundant phytochemicals present in the seeds sample were flavonoids mainly catechin (70.88 ± 0.21) and anthocyanin (42.11 ± 0.89). Blood samples were collected 24 hours after 7 and 21 days of treatment. Biochemical analyses were conducted on liver-injury, kidney-injury, and oxidative-stress markers. Liver/kidney histopathology were examined. Result revealed significant (p≤0.05) reduction in liver enzyme activities, creatinine and urea and malondialdehyde levels, while the electrolyte concentrations significantly increased in the extract treated groups on day 7 and 21 when measured against group 1. The histopathological examination revealed regeneration of the liver/kidney tissues in the extract treated groups mostly in 10 and 11. Thus, aqueous extract of water melon seeds ameliorated alloxan induced hepato-/nephron-toxicity in diabetic rats.

This study was designed to evaluate the effect of aqueous extract of Citrullus lanatus (water melon) seeds on alloxan induced-diabetic wistar rats. The Wistar rats were grouped into 11 of 3 rats in each. Groups 2-11 received single dose of 120 mg/kg b.wt of alloxan monohydrate intraperitoneally. Groups 4 and 5 orally received a dose of 100 mg/kg b.wt of metformin for 7 and 21 days respectively. Groups 6, 8 and 10 orally received 200 mg/kg b.wt, 400 mg/kg b.wt, and 600 mg/kg b.wt. of the extract respectively for 7 days while groups 7, 9 and 11 orally received 200 mg/kg b.wt., 400 mg/kg b.wt and 600 mg/kg b.wt of the extract respectively for 21 days. Blood samples were collected 24 hours after 7 and 21 days of treatment and selected biochemical parameters were determined; glucose determination, pancreatic α- amylase activities and lipid profile, while histopathology examination of the pancreas was also examined. Qualitative phytochemical result showed the presence of flavonoids, alkaloids, saponin, tannin, oxalate and phytate. Flavonoids (176.87 ug/g) were most abundant and phytate was the least occurring anti nutrient (6.75±0.06). Citrullus lanatus seeds extract significantly (p≤0.05) decreased the plasma glucose levels, pancreatic α-amylase activities, total cholesterol, triglycerides and lipoproteins while there was a significant (p≤0.05) increase in high density lipoproprotein levels on 7 and 21 days in all the extract treated groups. The histopathological examination of the pancreas showed regeneration of pancreatic cells in all the extract treated groups. The aqueous extract of Citrullus lanatus (water melon) seeds is rich in phytochemicals with antioxidant properties hence could serve as novel herbal antidiabetic agent.

Powdery mildew is one of the diseases caused by fungal infections that can reduce the production of melon fruit worldwide including in Indonesia. A powdery mildew-resistant cultivar of melon is needed to increase melon yield crops. This study aimed to detect resistance gene linked to powdery mildew using a sequence characterized amplified region (SCAR) markers. The melon cultivar Meloni was used in this study. SL-3, PI 371795, and Aramis cultivar were used to compare. Amplification of the marker was performed employing a pair of primers. The result showed that Meloni had a powdery mildew resistance gene by the presence of a DNA target band at 1058 base pair (bp). Based on this result, it could be concluded that Meloni was an excellent melon cultivar because of its ability to overcome the powdery mildew infections naturally. SCAR markers have been used for various purposes, especially to detect resistance genes to plant diseases. The present study had provided information for plant breeders about Meloni as the new melon cultivar that was genetically resistant against powdery mildew infections. Furthermore, Meloni could be proposed as an alternative to native Indonesian superior melon seeds.

Melon (Colocynthis citrullus L.) is a widely cultivated and consumed oil-seed in West Africa. Its seeds deteriorate quickly in storage due to microbial attack introduced during the shelling stage of processing. Aim: This study investigated and compared the microbial and proximate composition of Hand shelled and machined melon seed as sold in the market in Abeokuta, Nigeria. Study Design: The total bacterial, total fungal, Staphylococcal and coliform counts of the machine shelled and hand shelled melon seeds samples were determined. Methodology: The mould count was estimated as SFU/g and isolates (Aspergillus) were identified through spore formation, production of fruiting bodies, morphological and molecular characteristics. The proximate and chemical compositions-Free Fatty Acid (FFA) and Peroxide Value (PV)-were determined by standard analytical methods. Data were analysed using analysis of variance. Results: There is no significant (p

This study was planned to determine in vitro glycemic indices of some traditional foods frequently consumed by Turkish nation and to evaulate their effects on nutrition. Glycemic indices of roasted chickpea, Turkish bagel, tarhana, bulgur, Turkish delight, baklava, pişmaniye and kadayıf species; white bread was taken as reference (70) and analyzed in vitro by taking digestive system model. Glycemic index of Turkish bagels and bulgur was high (> 70), medium (55-70) of tarhana and low (

International audience; Quantifying the spatial variability of species-specific tree transpiration across hillslopes is important for estimating watershed-scale evapotranspiration (ET) and predicting spatial drought effects on vegetation. The objectives of this study are to (1) assess sap flux density (J(s)) and tree-level transpiration (T-s) across three contrasting zones a (riparian buffer, mid-hillslope and upland-hillslope, (2) determine how species-specific J(s) responds to vapour pressure deficit (VPD) and (3) estimate watershed-level transpiration (T-w) using T-s derived from each zone. During 2015 and 2016, we measured J(s) in eight tree species in the three topographic zones in a small 12-ha forested watershed in the Piedmont region of central North Carolina. In the dry year of 2015, loblolly pine (Pinus taeda), Virginia pine (Pinus virginiana) and sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua) J(s) rates were significantly higher in the riparian buffer when compared to the other two zones. In contrast, J(s) rates in tulip poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera) and red maple (Acer rubrum) were significantly lower in the buffer than in the mid-hillslope. Daily T-s varied by zone and ranged from 10 to 93 L/day in the dry year and from 9 to 122 L/day in the wet year (2016). J(s) responded nonlinearly to VPD in all species and zones. Annual T-w was 447, 377 and 340 mm based on scaled-J(s) data for the buffer, mid-hillslope and upland-hillslope, respectively. We conclude that large spatial variability in J(s) and scaled T-w was driven by differences in soil moisture at each zone and forest composition. Consequently, spatial heterogeneity of vegetation and soil moisture must be considered when accurately quantifying watershed level ET.

Performance evaluation of an electric motor and a fuel-engine powered machine used for shelling melon seeds was performed in this study to determine the effects of shelling speed and moisture content on machine productivity. The melon seeds used for the evaluation of the existing melon shelling machine were sourced locally from Umungasi market in Aba, Abia state, Nigeria. The unshelled melon seeds as used were weighed (25g each), sprinkled with water and partially dried with natural air for 25 minutes. This enabled the skin coat became slightly softened and the cotyledon easily detached from the shell, thus making the shelling more efficient. To evaluate the parameters (machine productivity, throughput capacity and percentage seed damage), the melon seeds were employed. For the shelling performance, melon seeds of five different moisture contents (7.48, 10.24, 13.92, 18.36, 21.44%) dry basis (d.b.) at different shelling speeds (850, 1000 and 1200 rpm) were utilized in the evaluation. From the evaluation, results revealed that the machine has an optimal productivity of over 83% and percentage seed damage of 14.2% at seed moisture content of 21.44% and drum speed of 1200 rpm for both power sources. Maximum machine throughput capacity of over 940 kg/h was recorded at 1200 rpm and 21.44% moisture content for both power sources. Overall, results obtained indicated that the machine can effectively shell melon seeds and that seed moisture contents and shelling speed affected the machine productivity.Keywords— Performance operation, evaluation, motorized, melon, shelling machine

The pin nematode, Paratylechus beltsvillensis n. sp. collected from rhizosphere soil of a Virginia pine tree (Pinus virginiana Mill) growing in Little Paint Branch Park, Beltsville, Prince George’s County, Maryland, USA, is described and illustrated along with light and scanning electron photomicrographs. Females, males, and juveniles of this new species were recovered from soil samples using the sugar centrifugal flotation and Baermann funnel extraction methods. Morphologically, females are short, body length ranging from 245 to 267 μm, stylet from 70 to 75 μm long with anchor shaped knobs, vulva located at 70–73% and small vulval flap, spermatheca large, and ovoid filled with sperms. Lateral field with three incisures, of which the outer two are prominent. Tail slender, having a rounded tail terminus. Males without stylet and have a degenerated pharynx, spicules = 17–20 µm and gubernaculum = 5.0–5.5 µm. Both morphological observations and molecular analysis of ITS and partial 28S ribosomal RNA gene sequences indicated that the specimens collected from the soil at Beltsville Park from rhizosphere soil samples from Virginia pine represents a new pin nematode species.

Introduction: Brazil is in the ranking of the 10 countries that most waste food in the world, it is also the 3rd largest producer of fruits, with the Northeast responsible for the production of 95% of the melon. As a result of the high fruit production, the country has faced environmental problems resulting from organic waste formed by waste. The peels and seeds that are neglected, as an example of melon, can be used in food through the full use of food that has been a great alternative in the search to reduce waste, as well as nutritionally enriching culinary preparations. Objective: Carry out a pilot study to verify organoleptic characteristics of culinary preparations made with flour from cantaloupe melon seeds (Cucumis melo L. var. reticulatus). Methodology: Two products were prepared, simple cake and chicken pie, with different percentages of melon seed flour (MSF) added to wheat flour enriched with iron and folic acid, following the concentrations of 25%, 50% and 75% of MSF. Results: The preparations made with flour whose constitution had 50% of MSF were those mentioned in the evaluation of the organoleptic characteristics, since they were more palatable, due to the lower amount of residues, as well as presenting a more pleasant aroma and flavor. Conclusions: In view of the results, it was observed that the participants opted for products that did not have a large amount of melon residues in the preparations, since these hinder chewing and swallowing, as well as altering some organoleptic characteristics such as aroma and flavor. Introducción: Brasil está en el ranking de los 10 países que más desperdician alimentos en el mundo, también es el 3er productor de frutas, siendo el Nordeste responsable de la producción del 95% del melón. Como resultado de la alta producción de frutas, el país ha enfrentado problemas ambientales derivados de los residuos orgánicos formados por los residuos. Las cáscaras y semillas que se descuidan, como ejemplo del melón, se pueden utilizar en la alimentación mediante el aprovechamiento pleno de alimentos que ha sido una gran alternativa en la búsqueda de reducir los desperdicios, así como preparaciones culinarias enriquecedoras nutricionalmente. Objetivo: Realizar un estudio piloto para verificar las características organolépticas de preparaciones culinarias elaboradas con harina de semillas de melón cantalupo (Cucumis melo L. var. reticulatus). Metodología: Se prepararon dos productos, bizcocho simple y pastel de pollo, con diferentes porcentajes de harina de semilla de melón (HSM) agregada a la harina de trigo enriquecida con hierro y ácido fólico, siguiendo las concentraciones de 25%, 50% y 75% de HSM. Resultados: Las preparaciones elaboradas con harina cuya constitución tenía 50% de HSM fueron las mencionadas en la evaluación de las características organolépticas, ya que resultaron más palatables, debido a la menor cantidad de residuos, además de presentar un aroma y sabor más agradable. Conclusiones: A la vista de los resultados, se observó que los participantes optaron por productos que no presentaban gran cantidad de residuos de melón en las preparaciones, ya que estos dificultan la masticación y deglución, además de alterar algunas características organolépticas como el aroma y el sabor. Introdução: O Brasil está no ranking dos 10 países que mais desperdiçam alimentos no mundo, é também o 3º maior produtor de frutas, sendo o Nordeste responsável pela produção de 95% do melão. Em consequência da elevada produção de frutas, o país tem enfrentado problemas ambientais decorrentes do lixo orgânico formado pelo desperdício. As cascas e sementes que são desprezadas, como exemplo do melão, podem ser utilizadas na alimentação por meio do aproveitamento integral de alimentos que tem sido uma ótima alternativa na busca de reduzir o desperdício, bem como enriquecer nutricionalmente as preparações culinárias. Objetivo: Realizar um estudo piloto para verificar características organolépticas de preparações culinárias elaboradas com farinha das sementes de melão cantaloupe (Cucumis melo L. var. reticulatus). Metodologia: Foram elaborados 2 produtos, bolo simples e torta de frango, com diferentes percentuais de farinha das sementes de melão (FSM) adicionados à farinha de trigo enriquecida com ferro e ácido fólico, seguindo as concentrações de 25%, 50% e 75% de FSM. Resultados: As preparações feitas com farinha cuja constituição possuía 50% de FSM foram as comentadas na avaliação das características organolépticas, visto que eram mais palatáveis, em virtude da menor quantidade de resíduos, bem como apresentaram aroma e sabor mais agradáveis. Conclusões: Diante dos resultados observou-se que os participantes optaram pelos produtos que não possuíam grande quantidade de resíduos de melão nas preparações, visto que esses dificultam a mastigação e deglutição, bem como alteram algumas características organolépticas como aroma e sabor.

Comparative evaluation of proximate composition of five melon seed varieties (Citrullus vulgaris (CV), Citrullus lanatus (CL), Colocynthis citrullus (CC), Cucurbita pepo (CP), and Cucumeropsis edulis (CE) boiled and fermented is presented. Five undehulled melon seed varieties were sorted, cleaned, washed and boiled respectively in deep water for 3h, cooled and hand dehulled. The cotyledons were wrapped with blanched banana leaves (Musa sapientum), tied and pierced in three places with fork, boiled again for 2h, drained/cooled and allowed to undergo chance fermentation at room temperature for 96h. The fermented seeds were pounded to paste, wrapped with ofoala leave (Icecina trichantha) and left near a fire place for another 144h for a second fermentation. Thereafter, proximate compositions were analysed for the boiled and fermented pulp samples of the melon seed varieties as well as microbial load. Data obtained were analysed statistically at p

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and paracetamol are the common analgesics used in children who experience mild to moderate pain. NSAIDs-related case of aseptic meningitis or meningism in healthy adolescent is relatively uncommon. We report a case of an 11-year-old boy with underlying bronchial asthma who had recent intake of three doses of diclofenac (50 mg), presented with signs and symptoms mimicking acute meningism. The boy initially presented to the emergency department after he experienced throbbing headache, dizziness, nausea and persistent vomiting for about 15 times per day for the past 2 days. He did not report presence of any auditory or visual hallucination; however, he claimed to have a bit of photophobia. Signs and symptoms occurred soon after the second dose of diclofenac. Besides, he was also taking oral antibiotic Augmentin for his left epididymo-orchitis problem and famotidine for prevention of gastritis prescribed by general practitioner. Vital signs were normal, and review of systems did not find any abnormality. Neurological assessment found no significant deficit, no cerebellar sign, negative Babinski test and no sign of meningism. Patient did not have frequent fall, head trauma or any family history of neurological diseases. A provisional diagnosis of meningoencephalitis was made after review by specialist. The parents of the boy did not give consent to conduct spinal tap. Upon further examination, urgent contrast-enhanced computed tomography was done and clinical neurological assessment was not suggestive of meningoencephalitis. Antibiotics treatment for meningoencephalitis was stopped 12 h after hospitalization. Although this case was not diagnosed as aseptic meningitis, timeline of diclofenac intake, onset of symptoms, clinical manifestations and quick resolution symptoms after drug discontinuation were supportive of a temporal relationship between diclofenac and meningism. Paracetamol was given to relieve the headache, vomiting resolved after one dose of intravenous metoclopramide plus ranitidine, and patient was well throughout the 5 days in ward. This adverse effect of NSAIDs is very rare and continuous effort in pharmacovigilance can help to raise awareness among clinicians. Int J Clin Pediatr. 2020;9(1):20-23 doi: https://doi.org/10.14740/ijcp358

The effect of storage on the nutritive values, proximate composition and mycoflora of Citrullus lanatus was investigated during a 24 weeks of storage. The mycoflora were isolated using direct plating and washing methods. Eight fungi were isolated namely Fusarium sp., Rhizopus sp., Mucor sp., Aspergillus niger, A. fumigatus, A. flavus, Penicillium chrysogenum and Penicillium sp. The fungal count was found to increase as the storage time increased. The proximate analysis showed a decrease and an increase on some parameters investigated. The mineral composition was found to decrease as the storage time increased. The following nutrients (g/100 g) were found to have reduced: ash content 4.29 - 3.19, fibre content 2.06 - 1.51, fat content 57.02 - 50.90, while the following increased: Moisture content 7.21-12.22, crude protein 29.24-30.90, carbohydrate content 0.20-2.01. The results for minerals analysis (mg/100 g) showed a decrease in all parameters investigated: sodium 2.01-1.49, potassium 65.52-56.21, calcium 13.10-10.19, magnesium 46.34-37.61, Iron 8.12-3.31, zinc 4.76-1.24, copper 2.84-2.11 and phosphorus 3.46-1.60 while lead and cadmium were not detected. However, storage was found to cause deterioration and reduction in the nutritive value and mineral content of C. lanatus seeds. It is therefore recommended that these seeds must be stored under controlled conditions that will prevent the growth of fungi and reduction of nutrients.

백합(fleur-de-lis)은 12세기 중엽 프랑스 문장으로 채택된 후 오랫동안 프랑스 왕실을 상징하고 프랑스와 동일시되었다. 파리와 리옹 등 도시 문장과 관공서 상징에 지금도 나타나며, 디트로이트나 뉴올리언스와 같은 미국 도시 깃발에도 등장한다. 그럼에도 불구하고 백합에 관한 문헌은 자료로 잘 축적돼 있지 않고 관련 연구 또한 미미한 실정이다. 프랑스 혁명기에 백합이 왕정의 표상으로 인식되고 파괴되면서 백합이 정치적으로 예민한 주제가 된 탓에 학문적 지위를 부여받지 못한 것이 가장 큰 이유다. 본 연구는 공정하게 해석될 수 없다는 이유로 주목받지 못한 프랑스 문장으로서 백합을 역사적 관점에서 재조명하여 그 학술적 가치를 복원하는 것을 목표로 한다. 백합이 태동한 배경과 청색을 바탕으로 왕실 문장으로 정착하는 과정을 살펴보면서 유럽 다른 나라와 구별되는 프랑스만의 문화적 특징을 지니게 된 이력과 그 의미를 궁구한다. 문장은 당대 사회를 읽을 수 있는 문화적 코드를 담고 있기에 프랑스 문장으로서 백합을 탐구하는 일은 역사 연구의 필수 과제이자 오늘날 프랑스를 만든 문화의 원형질을 이해하는 데 있어서도 중요한 작업이다. 이 논문은 프랑스 백합 문장이 정확히 언제 어떤 이유로 프랑스의 공식 엠블럼으로 사용되기 시작했으며, 그 모양과 의미가 어떻게 변천되어 왔는지 왕의 인장과 당대의 동전, 중세의 역사서에 의거해 역사적인 맥락에서 고찰한다. 그리고 12세기 서유럽에서 일어난 마리아 숭배가 서방 기독교에서 성모의 위상을 어떻게 변화시키고 프랑스 왕실 백합 문장의 색채에 어떤 영향을 끼쳤는지 고딕 대성당의 파사드와 스테인드글라스를 통해 살펴본다. 마지막으로 앙시앵 레짐(Ancien Regime)의 출현을 기점으로 프랑스에서 문장이 쇠퇴일로를 걷게 된 역사적 배경을 추적하면서 왜 오늘날에도 문장 연구가 중요하며 또 앞으로 어떤 방향으로 나아가야 하는지 연구한다.

Amyloid-β (Aβ) solution injections into an aqueous mobile phase moving through narrow bore stainless-steel capillary tubing results in adsorption of at least 99% Aβ within the tubing or injection valve. However, if flow is stopped for a period of 5–10 minutes, then started, wall desorption yields Aβ-containing molecules in the new effluent. The amount of desorbed Aβ-containing effluent depends on flow rate, period of flow cessation, and number of successive Aβ injections into the same tube without cleaning between injections. Unexpected multiple chromatographic peaks in these experiments seem to imply “separation” of released, previously adsorbed Aβ-containing products in the empty capillary tubing. These preliminary experiments raise questions about possible errors in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) spinal tap analyses, which use stainless-steel needles of approximately the same inner diameter and encounter similar flow rates as those in our capillary experiments. Microliter syringes and HPLC connectors also contain stainless-steel tubing that have similar inner diameter dimensions and similar flow rates. The capillary system involved in these experiments has previously been proposed as a model system for studying the effects of shear on Aβ within the brain because it offers a research environment that provides highly restrictive flow through very small dimension channels. A suggestion is made for the use of this system in exploratory anti-amyloid drug studies in which both the drug and Aβ are injected in the same solution so that both drug and Aβ are subjected to the same shear environment. Reduction in adsorbed Aβ is suggested as an indicator of effective anti-Aβ drugs.

Interactions between Pinus virginiana wood and the corresponding extractives played a large role in lignin thermochemistry and selectivity of lignin acidolysis pathways, as determined by thioacidol...

Background: Tuberculous meningitis (TBM) is difficult to diagnose in early stages due to nonspecific symptoms. There should be high index of suspicion to diagnose TBM at an early stage. The objective of the study was to find out the role of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and spinal tap in early diagnosis of tuberculous meningitis. Material and Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted from July 2015 till July 2018 at Neuromedicine ward, Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC), Karachi. All patients above 12 year of age, both male and female with nonspecific symptoms like headache, malaise and drowsiness or suspicion of TBM (stage I, II, and III according to British Medical Research Council TBM staging criteria) were included in the study. Patients diagnosed with other CNS disease like encephalitis, malaria and acute bacterial meningitis were excluded. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the brain and early spinal tap for cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis were used to diagnose TBM and findings were noted. Results of MRI and CSF analysis were analyzed by SPSS version 24. Results: A total of 110 patients of TBM, with 60 (54.5%) male and 50 (45.5%) female patients were included in the study. Most of the patients belonged to a younger age group of 12-40 years (81.8%), while 18.2% were above 40 years of age. About 90% patients were diagnosed in stage I TBM and 10% in stage II and III. MRI brain findings included meningeal enhancement (60%), hydrocephalus (41.81%) cerebral edema (82.73%), tuberculoma (19%) and infarct (14.5%), respectively. CSF analysis showed low protein in 80%, low glucose in 91.8% and lymphocytic pleocytosis in 97.2%, respectively. Conclusion: Both MRI brain and spinal tap with CSF analysis played a role in the early diagnosis of TBM, which is important to prevent the lethal complications associated with late diagnosis of this disease.

Melon is one of the main horticultural products that are harvested in Mexico and is a sourceof employment and an important income for farmers in the country. Melon is in great demand in thejuice and pulp industry and nowadays it is a current task to develop technologies for the use ofprocessed seeds from melons. The objective of the present investigation is to determine the yield of15 minerals and the composition of fatty acids present in melon seeds in order to add value to thisresidue. Some polyphenols were also determined in order to verify their possible intake to reducecertain health problems. Allergies and lactose intolerances have increased in recent years andtherefore there has been a growing demand for alternatives. By taking advantage of the melon seeds,we sought to create a drink made of melon seeds as a substitute for milk. After performing severalexperiments in the lab, it was demonstrated that melon seeds contain high amounts of linoleic acid, asubstance that regulates hormone production, improves neuronal function, strengthens the immunesystem and reduces cholesterol, thus preventing certain cardiac problems.

A large body of literature in representational studies reflects a deep professional concern over the negative effect of the role of the media in representing significant Others. Western media's cov...

A previously healthy 43-year-old man presented with durable occipitalgia for 1 month. Neurological examination revealed severe pain in the right C2 area accompanied by neck stiffness. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed an enhancing, polycystic intradural mass at the C2 level, occupying the left dorsolateral part of the spinal canal. In addition, a rim-like enhancement was found along the surfaces of the spinal cord. Blood tests did not show signs of infection. A lumbar spinal tap revealed albuminocytologic dissociation without cultured organisms. Cranial computed tomography scans taken 20 days later revealed an overt ventriculomegaly. The patient underwent a total tumor resection through hemilaminectomy of the C2. Intraoperatively, the left dorsal C2 roots were found to be extremely redundant due to the tumor and surrounding thickened arachnoids. The roots restored normal morphologies after resection of the arachnoids and tumor. Postoperatively, the patient's symptoms resolved and histological diagnosis was endodermal cyst. Four weeks later, a ventriculoperitoneal shunt was placed to treat progressive ventriculomegaly. A polycystic intradural mass of the upper cervical spine should assume an endodermal cyst that may cause contralateral occipitalgia and aseptic meningitis. Keywords: Endodermal cyst, Contralateral occipitalgia, Aseptic meningitis

International audience; The genus Pinus has wide geographical range and includes species that are the most economically valued among forest trees worldwide. Pine needle length varies greatly among species, but the effects of needle length on anatomy, function, and coordination and trade-offs among traits are poorly understood. We examined variation in leaf morphological, anatomical, mechanical, chemical, and physiological characteristics among five southern pine species: Pinus echinata, Pinus elliottii, Pinus palustris, Pinus taeda, and Pinus virginiana. We found that increasing needle length contributed to a trade-off between the relative fractions of support versus photosynthetic tissue (mesophyll) across species. From the shortest (7 cm) to the longest (36 cm) needles, mechanical tissue fraction increased by 50%, whereas needle dry density decreased by 21%, revealing multiple adjustments to a greater need for mechanical support in longer needles. We also found a fourfold increase in leaf hydraulic conductance over the range of needle length across species, associated with weaker upward trends in stomatal conductance and photosynthetic capacity. Our results suggest that the leaf size strongly influences their anatomical traits, which, in turn, are reflected in leaf mechanical support and physiological capacity.

Melon ( Cucumis melo L.) is one of the fruits of the family Cucurbitaceae, which propagated generatively by seeds. High quality of seed can results plants that good production. The problems often encountered in the seed production technology is the aspect of the post-harvest handling. On melon seed production, seed quality deterioration occurs caused fruit storage and seed drying are less precise. To get high quality seeds, then to do a proper post harvest handling. The purpose of this study is to get the proper time of fruit storage and seed drying to produce the high quality melon seed. The study was conducted from January to March 2018 at PT. BISI International Tbk Farm Karangploso Malang, prepared using Factorial Random Block Design (RCBD). The first factor is the fruit storage time (C), consisting of C1: 1 day, C2: 4 days, C3: 7 days, and C4: 10 days. While the second factor is seeds drying time (K), consisting of K1: 1 day, K2: 2 days, K3: 3 days, and K4: 4 days. Observations were made on the qualitative and the quantitative character including yield of seed result, the weight of 1000 grain, seed water content, seed germination, and seed germination rate. The results showed that there was interaction between fruit storage time treatment and seeds drying time on germination rate variable, while the effect given by each treatment showed a real result on all observation variables.

Gait improvement following high-volume lumbar puncture (HVLP) and continuous lumbar drain (cLD) is widely used to predict shunt response in patients with suspected normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH). Here, we investigate differences in MRI volumetric and traditional measures between HVLP/cLD responders and non-responders to identify imaging features that may help predict HVLP/cLD response. Eighty-two patients with suspected NPH were studied retrospectively. Gait testing was performed before and immediately/24 h/72 h after HVLP/cLD. A positive response was defined as improvement in gait post-procedure. Thirty-six responders (26 men; mean age 79.3 ± 6.3) and 46 non-responders (25 men; mean age 77.2 ± 6.1) underwent pre-procedure brain MRI including a 3D T1-weighted sequence. Subcortical regional volumes were segmented using FreeSurfer. After normalizing for total intracranial volume, two-way type III ANCOVA test and chi-square test were used to characterize statistical group differences. Evans’ index, callosal angle (CA), and disproportionately enlarged subarachnoid space hydrocephalus were assessed. Multivariable logistic regression models were tested using Akaike information criterion to determine which combination of metrics most accurately predicts HVLP/cLD response. Responders and non-responders demonstrated no differences in total ventricular and white/gray matter volumes. CA (men only) and third and fourth ventricular volumes were smaller; and hippocampal volume was larger in responders (p