Acid Insoluble Ash Research Articles

Perbandingan Parameter Mutu Ekstrak Bunga Telang (Clitoria ternatea) Menggunakan Metode Refluks, Sokhlet, dan Maserasi

Butterfly pea flower (Clitoria ternatea) is a plant that is known to contain high levels of flavonoids, anthocyanins and antioxidants which can be used for food and non-food products. Butterfly flower extract can be used as an active ingredient in product manufacturing. This research aims to compare the quality parameters of pea flower extract (Clitoria ternatea) obtained using the reflux, sochlet and maceration methods from organoleptic, yield, water content, total ash content, acid insoluble ash content and flavonoid aspects. The research results showed that for organoleptic parameters, butterfly pea flower extract had a deep purplish blue color and a distinctive aroma of butterfly pea flower. Based on the parameters of yield value, water content, total ash content, acid insoluble ash content, and flavonoids, the best extraction method for pea flowers (Clitoria ternatea) is the heat method (reflux or sokhlet).

Pharmacognostic, characterization, physio-chemical scrutinizes, and biological attributes of <i>Goniothalamus wightii</i>

To evaluate the quality control parameters of <i>Goniothalamus wightii</i> leaves, which are used for traditional medicine. The leaves extracts were characterized and to evaluate the phytochemical composition, antibacterial, antibiofilm and antioxidant activities. The macroscopic studies of the leaves are simply arranged, green color and dicot plant. The physico-chemical values are the presence of foreign matter, loss on drying, moisture and tannin content, no swelling and foaming capacity. Total ash, acid-insoluble ash, water soluble ash, and sulphated ash are the ash values; extractive values are examined in various organic solvents with visualized UV to exhibit various color variations. The proximate compositions were fiber, soluble and insoluble fiber, carbohydrates, and lipid content presence at g/100g. The quantitative phytoconstituents presence of hexane, ethyl acetate and methanol extracts such as were resolved in sequential extraction with hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, and methanol bands were separated. The FT-IR spectrum resembles the aliphatic and aromatic amines, and the LC-MS were identified by phenolic and flavonoids derivatives, steroids, lignin’s. The compounds based the antioxidant activities were 50-80% inhibition against the free radicals and antibacterial, antibiofilm activities were strongly killed the pathogens (<i>E. coli</i>, <i>E. faecalis</i>). In concluded that the pharmacognostic standardization is the first report in these species. The extracts of <i>G. wightiii</i> have potential antioxidant, antibacterial and antibiofilm effects, which could lead to pharmaceutical and industrial applications.

Pharmacognostic study and sedative activity of Bryophyllum pinnatum stem methanol extract and fractions

Insomnia is known as sleep insufficiency and is considered a capital public health concern. Bryophyllum pinnatum which belongs to the family Grassulaceae is used in folkloric medicine to treat various kind of ailment. The aim of the study was to undertake a pharmacognostic study of the stem and determine the sedative/hypnotic ability of the methanol extract and fraction of the stem. The physicochemical analysis indicated moisture content (12.68%), total ash (3.75%), acid insoluble ash (2.60%), water soluble ash (2.00%), water soluble extractive (6.02%) and alcohol soluble extractive (10.80%). The organoleptic evaluation of the powdered leaves revealed an odorless, green plant with bitter taste. The microscopic analysis of the leaf revealed palisade cell, spongy cell, stoma, collenchyma, xylem tissue, phloem tissue. The transverse section of the stem revealed epidermis, endodermis, xylem and cortex. The acute toxicity result revealed that Picralima nitida had no adverse effect in Wistar mice. The result showed that ethyl acetate fraction had sedative/hypnotic ability, affected the level of liver enzymes (ALT, AST, ALP), improved kidney function, and insignificantly increased body weight of mice. This study demonstrated that B. pinnatum could be an alternative medicine in pharmacological treatment of insomnia.

Extraction from Different Natural Sources and their Pharmacognostical Studies

Natural products from medicinal plants, either as pure compounds or as standardized extracts, provide unlimited opportunities for new drug leads because of the unmatched availability of chemical diversity. The focus of this paper is on the analytical methodologies, which include the extraction, isolation and characterization of active ingredients in botanicals and herbal preparations. The analysis of Phytoconstituents was performed physicochemical parameters (foreign matter, moisture content, loss on drying, total ash, water-soluble ash, acid-insoluble ash, sulphated-ash, alcohol-soluble extractive, water-soluble extractive and pH values), Preliminary Phytochemical Screening (Test for carbohydrates, Test for amino acids, Test for steroid, Test for fat, Test for oils, Test for alkaloids, Test for tannins, Test for phenolic compounds, Test for Saponin glycosides, Test for flavonoids, Test for volatile oils and Test for heavy metals ), Tests for Aflatoxin and Thin-Layer chromatography. The results were discussed that all Phytoconstituents extracted from Fennel, Amla and Tulsi were nom-toxic and safe. All Phytoconstituents were free from heavy metals and Aflatoxin. The major goals of extraction are to increase yields of bioactive substances, reduce extraction time, be more environmentally friendly, and attain economic viability without sacrificing biological activity.

Pharmaceutico-Analytical and Antimicrobial Study of Amritank Rasa

Amritank Rasa is a herbomineral formulation mentioned in the classical text of Basavrajiyam mainly used in the treatment of Pancha Kasa. This study aims to prepare the Amritank Rasa as per the classical text and conduct analytical and antimicrobial study of the prepared sample. The ingredients of Amritank Rasa are Kajjali, Trikatu, Pippalimoola, Chavya, Chitraka, Vatsanabha and Saindhava lavana all in equal parts and bhavana of Bhringaraj swarasa. The pharmaceutical procedure involves the preparation of Amritank Rasa vati in the 125mg dosage form. The pharmaceutical, analytical and antimicrobial parameters were compiled and data was recorded. The organoleptic parameters were, dark greyish in colour with pungent odour and taste, appearance was round and uncoated, and smooth in touch. The physiochemical parameters and quantitative parameters were, total ash was 5.5%, acid insoluble ash was 0.5% and loss on drying was 11.8%, average weight was 121mg, uniformity of weight test showed that all the tablets were not within the range of deviation from average weight, friability test was 0.51%, hardness was 5.3kg/cm2 and disintegration time test showed that any tablet did not dissolve in 60 minutes. The sample was then subjected to advanced analytical parameters i.e., FTIR, PSD, XRF and XRD. The antimicrobial study of Amritank rasa showed that it is effective against S.aureus, E.coli, P.aeruginosa and C. albicans. The development of the present study will serve as reference standards for Amritank Rasa formulation, quality control and clinical research

PSXII-25 Examining Relationships Between Residual Feed Intake Classification, Enteric Emissions, and Apparent Total Tract Digestibility in Yearling Beef Heifers

Abstract Improving feed efficiency in beef heifers may help reduce enteric emissions and improve economic returns for producers. The objective of this project is to assess the relationship between traditional residual feed intake (RFI) efficiency classification, enteric gas emissions, and apparent total tract nutrient digestibility in growing yearling heifers. Angus crossbred heifers (n = 74, BW = 408 ±27.1 kg) were blocked by BW and randomly assigned to pen groups. All heifers were fed a common haylage-based diet for ad libitum intake. Insentec feeding stations (Insentec B.V., Marknesse, The Netherlands) were used to measure individual feed intake and feeding behavior data. To measure enteric gas emissions of methane (CH4), carbon dioxide (CO2), and oxygen (O2), heifer groups were rotated through pens with GreenFeed trailers (C-Lock Inc., Rapid City, SD, USA) weekly. Apparent total tract digestibility was determined by collecting fecal samples from each heifer every 9 h over three days, composited and dried at 65 °C for 96 h, and analyzed for nutrient values (A&L Canada Laboratories, London, ON, Canada). Nutrient digestibility was determined for each heifer using acid-insoluble ash (AIA) and undigestible neutral detergent fiber (uNDF) as internal markers. RFI was determined using a regression of midpoint BW and ADG and then heifers were ranked by RFI quartile group. Data were analyzed using PROC GLIMMIX in SAS, with efficiency quartile group as the fixed effect and pen as a random effect, comparisons between quartile groups were assessed with a Tukey test. As expected, efficient (least RFI) heifers had decreased dry matter intake (8.5 vs 10.1 ± 0.20 kg/d, P < 0.01), less bunk visits (70 vs 112 ± 6 visits/day, P < 0.01), spent greater time per visit (2.46 vs 1.31 ± 0.249 min/visit, P < 0.01), and consumed more feed per visit (145 vs 104 ± 11.9 g DM/visit, P < 0.03), which resulted in a faster eating rate (65 vs 98 ± 5.0 g DM/min, P < 0.01), and produced decreased enteric CO2 emissions (7,653 vs 8,120 ±122.6 g/d, P = 0.05) compared with inefficient (greatest RFI) heifers. Additionally, when using AIA as the internal marker, efficient heifers showed greater digestibility of organic matter (89.8 vs 91.4 ± 0.49 %, P = 0.02) and NDF (20.2 vs 30.0 ± 2.66 %, P = 0.04) apparent total tract digestibility, while using uNDF as the internal marker showed no difference (P > 0.20) between efficiency groups. These data indicate that more efficient yearling heifers consume less feed, have reduced enteric gas emissions, and have improved organic matter and NDF apparent total tract digestibility.

PSXII-24 Examining Relationships Between Residual Feed Intake Classification, Enteric Emissions, and Apparent Total Tract Digestibility in Late Gestation Beef Heifers

Abstract Improving feed efficiency on forage-based systems can be an important tool for beef producers to reduce their environmental footprint. The objective of this project is to assess the relationship between traditional residual feed intake (RFI) efficiency classification, enteric gas emissions, and apparent total tract nutrient digestibility in late gestation beef heifers. Pregnant Angus crossbred heifers in late gestation (n = 72, BW = 576 ± 45.8 kg) were blocked by expected calving date and randomly assigned to pen groups. Heifers had ad libitum access to a common haylage-based diet formulated to meet nutritional requirements for the last eight weeks of gestation. Individual feed intake and behavior data were recorded daily using Insentec feeding stations (Insentec B.V., Marknesse, The Netherlands). Groups of heifers were rotated through pens with access to GreenFeed trailers (C-Lock Inc., Rapid City, SD, USA) to measure enteric gas emissions of methane (CH4), carbon dioxide (CO2), and oxygen (O2). To determine individual apparent total tract digestibility, fecal samples were collected from each heifer every 9 h over three days, mixed, dried at 65 °C for 96 h, and analyzed for nutrient values (A&L Canada Laboratories, London, ON, Canada). Nutrient digestibility was determined for each heifer using acid-insoluble ash (AIA) and undigestible neutral detergent fiber (uNDF) as internal markers. Heifer RFI was determined using predicted DM intake as a regression of midpoint BW and ADG, and heifers were classified by RFI quartile group. Data were analyzed using PROC GLIMMIX in SAS, with efficiency quartile group as the fixed effect and pen as a random effect, comparisons between quartile groups were assessed with a Tukey test. Heifers classified as efficient (lowest RFI) had decreased DMI (8.2 vs 10.7 ± 0.21 kg/d, P < 0.01), less bunk visits (43 vs 64 ± 5 visits/day, P < 0.01) and greater time per visit (4.8 vs 3.0 ± 0.53 min/visit, P = 0.05). Efficient heifers also had reduced CH4 (219 vs 245 ± 6.2 g/d, P = 0.03) and CO2 (7,517 vs 8,074 ± 165.9 g/d, P = 0.01) emissions compared with inefficient (greatest RFI) heifers. However, apparent total tract digestibility of organic matter, crude protein, NDF, ADF, starch, and sugar using AIA (P > 0.08) or uNDF (P > 0.06) as internal markers were not correlated with heifer efficiency. These data indicate that more efficient heifers in late gestation consume less feed and have reduced enteric emissions, despite no differences in apparent total tract digestibility.

PSI-6 Effects of a Postbiotic Program Consisting of Liquid and Solid Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Fermentation Products on Digestibility, Ruminal Fermentation, and Plasma Metabolome of Finishing Beef Steers

Abstract The objective of this study was to determine the effects of a postbiotic feeding program consisting of liquid and solid Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation products (SCFP) on digestibility, ruminal fermentation, and plasma metabolome of finishing beef steers. Eight Holstein steers (BW 467 ± 13.9 kg) equipped with rumen cannulas were used in a crossover design study, with 21-d per period and 7-d washout period in between periods. Steers were blocked based on initial BW to one of two treatments: 1) Control, basal diet only (CON), or 2) SCFP, one day feeding of LiquiCare RTU (Diamond V, dosed via rumen cannula at 11 mL/100 kg BW) followed by daily feeding of 12 g NaturSafe (Diamond V, top-dressed). Feed and fecal samples were collected during d 17 to 20 for determination of digestibility and fecal excretion of N, P, Cu and Zn using acid-insoluble ash as an internal marker. Blood samples were collected on d 21 before morning feeding. Rumen fluid samples were collected on d 0, 1, 2, 3, 5 and 21 at 0, 4, 8, or 12 h post morning feeding via rumen cannula. Results were analyzed with the GLIMMIX procedure of SAS 9.4 (SAS, 2022). BW, DMI and digestibility were not affected by treatment. There was a tendency of treatment by period interaction (P = 0.09) on feed efficiency, which was improved by feeding SCFP only in period 1. Feeding SCFP did not affect (P > 0.10) ruminal pH. Feeding SCFP tended to reduce ruminal lactate concentration on d 21 (0.09 vs. 0.02 mM, P = 0.10). Supplementing SCFP reduced ruminal NH3-N concentration on d 2 (4.24 vs. 7.31 mg/dL, P = 0.03) and d 21 (4.86 vs. 6.83 mg/dL, P = 0.04). By feeding SCFP, ruminal total VFA concentration was increased 4-h post-feeding on d 5 (139.7 vs. 126.7 mM, P = 0.01) and numerically increased 4-h post-feeding on d 21 (151.2 vs. 133.3 mM, P = 0.12). For VFA composition, no treatment differences were observed on day 21. However, feeding SCFP reduced (P = 0.01) propionate proportion and increased (P = 0.05) butyrate proportion on day 3. The enriched plasma metabolic pathways (P ≤ 0.05) by feeding SCFP are citric acid cycle, pyrimidine metabolism, glycolysis/gluconeogenesis, retinol metabolism, and inositol phosphate metabolism pathways. Overall, our results indicated potential benefits of the SCFP feeding program on improving ruminal fermentation, preventing acidosis and improving N utilization in the rumen. Furthermore, feeding SCFP enriched several important pathways in lipid, protein, and glucose metabolism, which may improve feed efficiency of energy and protein in finishing beef cattle.

Physicochemical Property Determination of Antidiarrheal Remedy of Ya-Gae-Bid-Na-Ron

Objective: This study aimed to determine the physicochemical properties of Ya-Gae-Bid-Na-Ron (YGBNR); according to the Thai Herbal Pharmacopoeia (THP) guidelines.Material and Methods: Kratom, ginger, Java long pepper, and chilli were collected from different sources, authenticated, and prepared for crude drugs. From this, twelve YGNBR recipes were formulated, and the physicochemical properties of the raw materials and recipes were determined. The thin layer chromatography (TLC) and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) fingerprints were investigated, and the microbial limits and heavy metal contamination were determined.Results: YGBNR was prepared by mixing dry powders of kratom: ginger: Java long pepper; chilli in the ratio of 72:5:13:10. The phytochemical properties; including loss on drying, total ash, acid-insoluble ash, ethanol (80% v/v)-soluble extractive, water-soluble extractive, volatile oil, and mitragynine content were: 7.68±0.04%w/w, 5.72±0.06%w/w, 0.26±0.02%w/w, 28.99±0.17%w/w, 21.98±0.21%w/w, 0.40±0.00%v/w, and 0.58±0.28 %w/w, respectively. The microbial limits and heavy metal contaminations were under the THP requirements. Conclusion: The physicochemical properties of YGNBR, an antidiarrheal recipe, was determined according to THP. The specification is essential information for the establishment for the herbal monograph of YGBNR.

Proximate Composition and Caloric Content of Halwa Produced in the Urban West Region, Zanzibar

Information on food composition is important not only for the power of the market, but also for the health and safety of consumers. Halwa consumption in Zanzibar, especially in the urban west region, has increased with limited nutrition information and a lack of regulatory supervision. This study aimed to determine the proximate composition, total sugar content (sucrose) and caloric content of groundnut-enriched halwa produced in the urban west region of Zanzibar. A total of 13 samples were collected for laboratory analysis. Moisture content, ash content, crude protein, crude fat, crude fibre, acid insoluble ash, acidity of extracted fat and total sugar were determined by AOAC methods 925.49, 900.2, 920.176, 920.177, 960.39, IS 6287 and ZNS 574:2023, respectively. The halwa samples had a total sugar content ranging from 26.06% to 51.54%, moisture content from 13.61% to 26.15%, ash content from 0.03% to 0.48%, acid insoluble ash from 0.01% to 0.252%, crude protein from 0.06% to 3.61%, crude fat from 1.79% to 4.77%, acidity of extracted fat as oleic acid from 2.43% to 4.72% and crude fibre ranged 8.12% to 15.21%. The carbohydrate and energy contents of the halwa were in the range of 61.44% to 70.94% and 267.14 kcal to 324.16 kcal, respectively. All the 13 samples did not conform to the requirements of Zanzibar Standard for halwa (ZNS 574:2023) concerning moisture and fat content, while seven (samples complied with ZNS 574:2023 concerning the acidity of extracted fat as oleic acid. Only one sample did not conform to ZNS: 574: 2023 in terms of the acid-insoluble ash parameters. All samples were in accordance with the requirements of ZNS 574:2023 concerning sugar content.

The inhibition of α-Glucosidase enzyme activity from Standardised Ethanol Extract of Abelmoschus manihot (L.) Medik Leaves

People have long utilised the leaves of the red gedi, Abelmoschus manihot (L.) Medik is an anti-diabetic medication. The study’s objectives were to classify chemical constituent groups, assess extract quality, and evaluate the activity of α-glucosidase enzyme inhibitors. The extraction method employed kinetic maceration with a 70% ethanol solvent, identification was accomplished through phytochemical screening, a quality determination was based on both specific and non-specific parameters, and α-glucosidase inhibition was used in an in vitro antidiabetic activity test. Flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, steroids, and triterpenoids were found in the phytochemical screening test results. The results of the quality parameter test obtained viscous extract, blackish green color, 70.58% water soluble extract, 49.46% ethanol soluble extract, 7.82% loss on drying, 4.19% water content, total ash content 6.97%, acid insoluble ash content 0.60%, water-soluble ash content 5.64%, residual solvent 0.76%, heavy metal content Pb 1.35 mg/kg, Cd 0.06 mg/kg, plate number total ≤10 colonies/g, yeast plate number 20.1995 colonies/g and total flavonoid content 1.20%. The α-glucosidase enzyme inhibitory activity test from the extract and acarbose (positive controls) obtained IC50 values of 81.84 μg/mL and 42.6 μg/mL, respectively. In conclusion, the α-glucosidase enzyme may be inhibited by the ethanolic extract of A. manihot (L.) Medik leaves.

A Study on the Efficacy of Lakadong Turmeric collected from selected regions of Meghalaya.

This study is to evaluate the 'Lakadong turmeric‘ which is regarded as the stylish and exquisite variety of turmeric setup in the state of Meghalaya. The assessment was carried out at the State Food Testing Laboratory under the Commissionerate of Food Safety, Pasteur Hills, Shillong. The study represents a brief analysis reflecting the microbial contaminations, chemical contaminants, trace elements like heavy metals and pesticide residues of various 'Lakadong turmeric‘ samples collected from different regions of Meghalaya. Collection of samples was done on random sampling from selected part of East Khasi Hills (locality namely; Laban and Lumshngain), West Jaintia Hills (Laskhein and Shangpung), and Ri Bhoi District (Umeit and Mawkhap) respectively. Around 7 (seven) Pure ‗Lakadong Turmeric‘ samples were tested for the presence of Escherichia coli, Salmonella and Yeasts and Moulds respectively. However, all tested samples depict absence of bacterial growth, indicating that these ‗Lakadong Turmeric‘ samples collected and tested are bacteriologically free from pathogens and other bacterial contaminations. Chemical analysis like, Moisture content, Total Ash, and Acid Insoluble Ash (AIA) was also performed in all 7 (seven) turmeric samples and all these samples conform to the prescribed standards as per the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Presence of macro, micro and toxic heavy metals were also assessed to analysed the curcumin content of each ‗Lakadong Turmeric‘ samples inorder to determine the authenticity of the products. It was observed that samples show value for heavy metals below the Limit of Quantity (LOQ) indicating that all 7 (seven) ‗Lakadong Turmeric‘ samples shows no interference of trace metals. Curcumin content of all 7 (seven) samples shows variable values ranges from 5-13.80 %. From the study, it was shown that the turmeric sample derive from Laskein region, West Jaintia Hills District have the highest curcumin content of 13.80% respectively.

Evaluation of Substitution of Stem Bark with Small Branches of Stereospermum Chelonoides DC and Quantitative Estimation of Lapachol by HPLC

Background: Stereospermum chelonoides DC, also known as padhri, is a medicinal plant that belongs to the Bignoniaceous family and is commonly used in herbal medicine. Natural materials separated from a variety of traditional herbal plants have been claimed to had a significant impact on the development of numerous lead compounds used in the treatment of health issues in communities all over the world. The plant stem bark and small branches is used in traditional and folklore medicine to treat a variety of ailments. The aim of this study is to assess the Pharmacognostic and physicochemical analysis of Stereospermum chelonoides stem bark and small branches. The stem is used for the study of characters; whereas physicochemical parameters such as pH, total ash content, acid insoluble ash, water soluble extractive, alcohol soluble extractive, loss on drying are determined. Results: Preliminary phytochemical studies of ethanolic and aqueous extract of Stereospermum chelonoides DC ascertained the presence of flavonoids, saponins, Coumarins, Alkaloids, Furanoids, phenolic, Quinones, Reducing sugars, Sugars (Carbohydrate), triterpenoids, and tannins. The findings of the present study lay down standards which could be useful to detect the authenticity and for detailed evaluation and investigation of this plant. Lapachol which is indicated in the High Performance Liquid Chromatography, further studies may be conducted on the method validation by High Performance Liquid Chromatography to quantify in formulations, extracts and raw materials for quality control purpose. Conclusion: The stem bark and small branches of this plant useful in the future as it will not have any harmful effect to the plant so its small branches are more important than stem bark in the formulation of drugs which will derive from Stereospermum chelonoides DC

Standardization of Ethanol Extract of Dioscorea alata L. Variety of Paoateno from Banggai Islands District, Central Sulawesi

Background: Standardizing herbal medicines is crucial for assessing their quality and effectiveness. Objectives: This study aims to determine non-specific and specific standardization parameters for medicinal plants. Non-specific parameters include drying shrinkage, water content, total ash content, acid insoluble ash content, total bacteria, total mold, and metal limits (Pb, Hg, and Cd). Specific parameters involve organoleptic examination, identification of chemical content in extracts, dissolved compounds in specific solvents, total flavonoid content, and qualitative testing of anthocyanin content in the extract. Materials and Methods: An experimental laboratory approach was employed to extract Dioscorea alata L using 96% ethanol, which was later concentrated through a rotary evaporator to obtain a viscous extract. Specific and non-specific parameters were determined using standardized techniques. Results: The extract yielded 3.32% of the initial substance. Drying shrinkage was 19.7769±1.2682%, and specific gravity was 0.6192±0.1476 gram/ml for 5% m/v and 0.5101±3.9591 gram/ml for 10% m/v. Ash content was 0.6793%, with acid insoluble ash content at 0.1895%. Heavy metal contamination for Hg was 0.47 ppm, but undetected for Pb & Cd). The total plate number was 27 x 103 colonies/g, and negative Escherichia coli contamination. The mold count was 39 x 101 colonies/g. Additional specific parameters included the organoleptic properties of the viscous extract (purple color, characteristic odor, and sweet taste), water-soluble compound content (15.63%), ethanol-soluble compound content (14.73%), and a flavonoid content of 76.669 mg EQ/100 mg. Conclusions: The ethanol extract of Dioscorea alata complies with the standard requirements established by the Food and Drug Supervisory Agency. It presents as a viscous extract with a distinct odor, purple-black color, and sweet taste. The extract contains alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, steroids, and phenolic compounds, with a total flavonoid content of 76.669 mg. Furthermore, it tested positive for anthocyanins.

Proximate and Phytochemical Analysis of Crude Powder and Different Extracts of Zaleya pentandra

Zaleya pentandra, a plant species found in disturbed soils and roads across Asia, Africa, and Australia, has been traditionally used for treating various ailments such as coughs, malaria, kidney stones, ulcers, and jaundice. Objectives: To conduct a quantitative examination of Z. pentandra, focusing on proximate analysis and metabolite composition and to better understand its features. Methods: Crude plant powder underwent analysis for total moisture, total ash, water-soluble ash, acid-insoluble ash, sulfated ash, water-soluble extractive, and alcohol-soluble extractive. Quantification (mg/gm) of principal metabolites i.e., carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids in the crude plant powder was done. Dry plant powder was subjected to counter-current extraction using n-hexane, petroleum ether, and chloroform. UV-visible and FTIR spectra were examined to determine the chemical composition. Results: Our findings showed total moisture (9.306%), total ash (21.73%), water-soluble ash (12.75%), acid-insoluble ash (0.35%), sulfated ash (29.75%), water-soluble extractive (6.23%), alcohol-soluble extractive (5.7%). Principal metabolites included high quantities of carbs (65.34), proteins (15.29), and lipids (30.90) in the crude plant powder. n-hexane (3.073%), petroleum ether (4.45%) and chloroform (7.47%) were extracted. UV-visible and FTIR spectra revealed a variety of chemicals, indicating both polar and non-polar molecules with possible oxidative characteristics. Conclusions: Z. pentandra exhibits high carbohydrate, protein, and fat content. The diverse chemical composition suggests a high oxidative potential, supporting its traditional therapeutic uses. Further research, especially in identifying and isolating bioactive components, is warranted. Z. pentandra holds promise for traditional medicine and broader applications based on its nutritional and bioactive potential.

Forage Quality of Ventenata dubia in a Southeastern Oregon Meadow System

Ventenata (Ventenata dubia L.) is an exotic annual grass gaining attention for its environmental and economic impacts across the western United States. Since cattle reportedly avoid grazing it, there is speculation regarding why it is rejected, though little is known about its forage quality and digestibility. We examined the seasonal and annual forage dynamics of ventenata in a southeastern Oregon meadow system by analyzing the forage quality (crude protein, acid detergent fiber, lignin); silica content; in vitro digestibility (IVDMD); and macrominerals (phosphorous, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and sulfur) of ventenata over the growing season (May, June, and July) for 2 yr. We did not find that ventenata is low in forage quality, macrominerals, or digestibility. Overall, the forage quality of ventenata, especially in early spring (May and June), appears to pose little issue nutritionally. In fact, the crude protein of ventenata stayed above the crude protein minimum requirement for maintenance in grazing cattle through June. However, we did find that silica content as acid insoluble ash content (AIA%) of ventenata at our sites increased throughout the growing season and ranged between 4.3% and 12.1%, nearly 4× the amount previously reported. We also found variability in digestibility and nutrient profile from year to year that can be related to annual precipitation. For example, digestibility decreased by June in the wetter year but did not decrease in the dryer year until into July. Our results have implications for the management of ventenata and are especially relevant for the consideration of targeted grazing as a control method. Forage quality and digestibility of ventenata are best in early spring but, due to the height of the annual grass during this time, there is only a brief window for a targeted grazing strategy because its quality and digestibility declines and silica content increases over the growing season.

In-silico anti-vitiligo activity of glycyrrhizin as potential IL-17 inhibitor and in-vitro antioxidant potential of isolated glycyrrhizin from G. glabra

Vitiligo is a chronic skin de-pigmentation disease; decrease in melanocytes is responsible for vitiligo. Autoimmune diseases, oxidative stress, and biochemical, neuronal, genetic, and environmental factors are the main reasons for vitiligo pathogenesis. TH-17 generates Interleukin-17 (IL-17) which gives rise to autoimmune disorders such as vitiligo. Literature reveals that glycyrrhizin inhibits IL-17 and is considered a potent antioxidant. In the present experiment, we have determined the In-silico inhibition of IL-17 by glycyrrhizin with the help of PyRx (AutoDockVina) Software, and molecular dynamics was done for predicting interaction and binding affinity of glycyrrhizin with the IL-17 receptor. Afterward, glycyrrhizin was isolated from Glycyrrhiza glabra roots and confirmed through HPLC. We also estimated the antioxidant potential of isolated glycyrrhizin using different antioxidant methods such as Phosphomolybdate assay, DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazine-hydrate), reducing power assay, free radical scavenging activity against the ascorbic acid standard. We also determined the pharmacognostic parameters such as Loss on drying (LOD) acid-insoluble ash, total ash, and water-soluble ash of dried root powder. The in-silico evaluation describes that glycyrrhizin exhibits a good docking score, and the molecular dynamic simulation study validated the activity of glycyrrhizin on IL-17. The antioxidant study shows glycyrrhizin possesses good antioxidant potential. The experiment shows LOD (0.52 % w/w), total ash (16.78 % w/w), acid-insoluble ash (1.932 % w/w), and water-soluble ash (1.213 % w/w), respectively. The in-silico docking study on IL-17 receptor and in-vitro antioxidant study reveal that glycyrrhizin is a better herbal choice for treating vitiligo. However, more in-vivo investigations are needed to confirm the above hypothesis.

Standardization of Golden Sea Cucumber (Stichopus hermanii) Extracts from Pelapis Island, Kayong Regency, West Kalimantan

Stichopus hermanii can be used as a medicinal material, a source of animal protein, and wound healing medicine products. Extracts as raw materials for products must go through a standardization process to ensure pharmaceutical reproducibility, a therapeutic quality, and to ensure a consistent and uniform final composition. The purpose of this research was to determine the test results of the standardization parameters of Stichopus hermanii extract from Pelapis Island, West Kalimantan as raw material for wound healing herbal medicinal preparations. Preparation of extracts using the maceration method with 96% ethanol. The extract was standardized with specific parameters, including organoleptic, water and ethanol soluble content, phytochemical screening, and protein content, and non-specific parameters, including drying shrinkage, water content, ash content, and acid insoluble ash content. The test results obtained were a water-soluble content of 61.89%, ethanol-soluble content of 41.81%, protein content of 7.62%, drying shrinkage of 38.81%, water content of 20.58%, ash content of 37.95%, and acid insoluble ash content of 2.07%.

Effects of Concentrate Feeding Sequence on Growth Performance, Nutrient Digestibility, VFA Production, and Fecal Microbiota of Weaned Donkeys.

In this study, effects on the growth performance, nutrient digestibility, volatile fatty acids (VFA) production, and fecal microbiota of weaned donkeys were observed using different concentrate feeding sequences. Fifteen healthy 6-month-old weaned male donkeys with a body weight of 117.13 ± 10.60 kg were randomly divided into three treatment groups, including group C1 (roughage-then-concentrate), group C2 (concentrate-then-roughage), and group C3 (total mixed ration, TMR). The experiment lasted 35 d. We measured nutrient digestion by the acid-insoluble ash method and analyzed the fecal microbiota of the weaned donkeys by high-throughput sequencing of 16s rRNA genes in the V3-V4 region. The results show that group C3 obtained the best growth performance, and the digestibility of crude protein (CP) and crude extract (EE) was significantly higher than that of group C1 (p < 0.05). Acetic acid, isobutyric acid, valeric acid, isovaleric acid, and caproic acid were notably different among all groups (p < 0.05). In addition, we observed that Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes were dominant in the fecal microbes of each group, and Firmicutes was significantly higher in group C3 (p < 0.05). At the genus level, the different genera were Treponema, Rikenellaceae-RC9-gut-group, Unidentified-F082, and Bacteroidales-RF16-group (p < 0.05). The prediction of fecal microbiota function by PICRUSt indicated that different feeding sequences had minimal impact on the function of the fecal microbiota, particularly on the high-abundance pathway. In summary, the concentrate feeding sequence changed the composition of the fecal microbe of weaned donkeys.

Determination of Specific and Non-Specific Parameters of Cempedak Leaf Simplisia (Artocarpus Integer)

Cempedak (Artocarpus integer (Thunb.) Merr.) is a plant with the genus Artocarpus that grows in Kalimantan and has properties as antimalarial, antidiabetic, abdominal pain and anticancer. This study aims to determine the specific and non-specific parameters of simplisia. The method used refers to the Indonesian Herbal Pharmacopoeia and General Standard Parameters of Extracts. Samples came from the South Kalimantan Province and Central Kalimantan Province. The results of the organoleptic test of simplisia are in the form of powder, light green in color, smelling typical of leaves and tasteless. Microscopic results show epidermis, sclerenchyma, xylem, phloem, air cavities, chlorophyll and stomata. The results of each test have a range, namely ethanol soluble juice content 17.80% - 25.40%, water soluble juice content 15.27% - 19.33%, total ash content 8.07% - 10.25%, acid insoluble ash content 2.32% - 3.82%, Pb metal contamination &lt;0.001 - 0.004 mg/kg and Cd 0.160 - 0.178 mg/kg. A. integer leaf simplisia contains alkaloid, flavonoid, saponin, tannin, glycoside, phenolic and anthraquinone compounds which are confirmed on the KLT profile with the same compound content. Total phenol content was 18.88% - 20.29% b/w EAG. The test results of specific and non-specific parameters of A. integer leaf simplisia from two different places have met the requirements set by the Indonesian Herbal Pharmacopoeia and BPOM RI.