Association Of Official Agricultural Chemists Research Articles

Potato peel as substrate for Single Cell Protein in animal feed by submerged fermentation

Single-cell protein (SCP) has gained attention in scientific research as a vital source of protein in animal feed and human food. Taking into account the importance of SCP, an attempt was made in the current research to grow Rhizopus oligosporus and Saccharomyces cerevisiae biomass by selecting potato peel as a substrate. The potato peel was treated with sulfuric acid to form potato peel hydrolysate following acid hydrolysis. In 1.0-L potato peel hydrolysate, 2.5-g/L KH2PO4, 0.5-g/L MgSO4, 0.5-g/L NaCl, and 10 g/L yeast extract were taken to prepare growth media. The moisture content of potato peel was examined by following standard procedure of the Association of Official Agricultural Chemists (AOAC). The Kjeldahl method was used to determine the protein content, and glucose was examined by using the dinitrosalicylic acid (DNS) method. Optimization of SCP yield was accomplished by following the ‘one factor at a time’ method. The effect of each parameter, such as incubation period, temperature and pH on SCP production was analyzed. Bioreactor scale-up production of SCP was performed in a jar fermenter. To enhance SCP, yield co-culture of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Rhizopus oligosporus was used in a bioreactor that yielded 19 g/L of SCP. Thus, as a nutritional supplement for living organisms, SCP can effectively fulfill protein scarcity globally.

Trace element concentrations and associated human health risk assessment in canned tuna, city of Neyshabur, Iran

Seafood is considered a healthy and nutritious food, but the presence of toxic substances in such foods is a serious problem. The present study aimed to analyze the concentration of some toxic metals in seafood and evaluate their noncarcinogenic risks to consumers. Samples were digested according to the Association of Official Agricultural Chemists (AOAC) standard. The heavy metals concentration of Cd, Ni, Hg, Pb, and Sn in 30 canned tuna samples were determined using an inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES). The mean concentrations of Cd, Ni, Sn, Pb, and Hg were 0.7, 0.49, 1.03, 0.31, and 0.12 µg g− 1, respectively. Based on these results, the concentrations of Cd, Sn, and Hg in samples met the required standards. However, the concentrations of Ni and Pb in some samples were higher than the permissible limits. The mean values of Sn, Ni, Pb, Hg, and Cd in samples followed a decreasing order. Since the values of the health risk index for these samples were lower than the HI and HRI risk threshold (<1), they can be consumed without any problems arising. Highlights The metal concentration was measured in the four most popular brands of canned fish sold in Neyshabur City, Iran. Some samples exceeded the maximum permissible level of nickel (Ni) and lead (Pb). A significant correlation was observed between Ni concentration with Pb and Hg concentrations and Pb concentration with Cd concentration. The values of the health risk index (HRI) for noncarcinogenic health risks were lower than 1. The calculated Hazard index (HI) for adult and child consumers was less than 1. The HI values were greater for children than for adults.

Minerals and heavy metals profiling of Moroccan saffron (Crocus sativus L.): A comparative study across diverse agro-ecological areas

With growing consumer concern regarding food quality and composition. This study was performed to analyze the content of major inorganic nutrients, trace elements, potentially toxic elements and ash content in 48 saffron samples. These were collected from four distinct Moroccan regions: “Taliouine, Taznakht, Azilal, and Beni Mellal”. The analysis was done in accordance with the guidelines set by the Association of Official Agricultural Chemists (AOAC). The findings of this study reveal that essential nutrient elements such as magnesium, phosphorus, calcium, potassium, and sodium were present in important amounts. The average content of these macro-elements was found in the following order: K > P > Mg > Ca > Na, with mean concentrations of 16500±1119 mg/kg, 3290±220 mg/kg, 1430±97 mg/kg, 960±65 mg/kg, and 75±5 mg/kg, respectively. Significant differences among sampling sites as revealed by ANOVA and principal component analysis in selected samples. Furthermore, the levels of potentially harmful elements, including nickel, arsenic, lead, and cadmium, were found below the harmful limits. These results provide valuable scientific information that supports the optimal utilization of saffron, enriching the medicinal plant database. This research sheds light on the compositional, nutritional, and safety aspects of saffron, laying the groundwork for future research in this field.

Determination of Proximate Composition and Antioxidant Properties of Selected Underutilized Fruits (Namnam, Lovi, Roseapple, Pumello, And Sapota) Grown in Sri Lanka

The present experiment was conducted at the Fruit Research and Development Institute Horana, Sri Lanka, from 2020 to 2021 to evaluate the proximate composition, antioxidant activity, ascorbic acid and total phenolic content of five underutilized fruits, namely Namnam, Lovi, Roseapple, Pumello and Sapota using Association of Official Agricultural Chemists (AOAC) methods. The parameters determined were moisture, crude fiber, crude fat, sugar, antioxidant activity, total phenolic content, titratable acidity, pH, total soluble solids and ascorbic acid. Rose apple and Namnam fruits recorded the highest (91.47%) and the lowest (68.87%) moisture content, respectively. The Pumello fruit exhibited the lowest fat, crude fiber, total sugar, non–reducing sugar and reducing sugar contents with the values of 0.01%, 1.33%, 005%, 0.03%, and 0.02%, respectively. Sapota reported the highest fat, total soluble solids and pH values of 1.33%, 16%, and 4.74%, respectively. Roseapple recorded the highest crude fiber (5.59%) and the total sugar content (0.81%), while Lovi showed the lowest pH (2.29) and highest titratable acid content (2.01%) Pumello had the highest ascorbic acid concentration, whereas Lovi had the lowest value. Pumello and Namnam demonstrated the lowest IC50 value (0.03). Sapota and Roseapple had the highest (20.49) and lowest (2.16) total phenolic content. The study emphasizes the diverse nutritional elements in these underutilized fruits, highlighting their potential as valuable sources of supplementary nutrients.

Evaluation of Interlaboratory Comparisons on Quality Testing Towards Pesticide Formulation of beta-Cyfluthrin, Chlorpyrifos, and Profenofos Active Ingredients

The Surabaya Center for Seed and Plantation Protection (BBPPTP Surabaya) carried out interlaboratory comparison research to test the quality of pesticide formulations. This study aimed to determine the ability of each participating laboratory to analyze the concentration of the active ingredients’ beta-cyfluthrin, chlorpyrifos, and profenofos in test samples expressed in z-score values. A total of 15 laboratories participated in this program. The quality test method of the pesticide formulations for the beta-cyfluthrin, chlorpyrifos, and profenofos active ingredients referred to the Association of Official Agricultural Chemists (AOAC) method, which was developed and validated. A homogeneity test was carried out before the test samples were distributed. The data were evaluated using a robust z-score statistical calculation algorithm, a method under the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 13528:2016. The assigned values used to calculate the z-score were obtained by statistical processing of participants’ test results. The results of the stability test calculation showed that the distributed sample data was statistically stable. Three laboratory participants were in the questionable category, and one laboratory participant was in the outlier category.

Simultaneous Determination of Trichothecenes and Zearalenone in Food by Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS)

Trichothecenes (deoxynivalenol, 3- and 15-acetyl-deoxynivalenol) and zearalenone are toxic secondary metabolites produced by Fusarium species. Although managing these mycotoxins simultaneously is crucial, current analytical methods differ because of their distinct properties. In this study, food matrix extraction conditions were established and applied to cereal-based foods (n = 90). The optimal conditions were developed by utilizing fragment ions and precursors, following the guidelines established by the Association of Official Agricultural Chemists (AOAC). The developed method demonstrated high accuracy and reliability within 20 min, even for samples with low concentrations. Consequently, the recovery range of the fat-oil-processed products and cereal sirup improved from 27.0% to 98.3% and 27.6% to 97.8%, respectively. This improved extraction method offers a more convenient and rapid approach for the analysis of various matrices. Furthermore, these optimized methods can be extended to monitor the co-occurrence of mycotoxins in cereal-based foods, providing valuable assistance to the food industry and regulatory agencies for detecting and monitoring mycotoxins that may pose potential health risks.

Nutritional Composition and Odor-Contributing Volatile Compounds of the Edible Mushroom Cantharellus alborufescens.

Chanterelles are one of the most highly valued wild edible mushroom genera worldwide. This work aimed to investigate the nutritional characteristics and volatile compounds' profile of Cantharellus alborufescens for the first time. Proximate analysis was performed according to the Association of Official Agricultural Chemists, while the mineral contents and the volatile compounds were determined using ICP-MS and GC-MS, respectively. C. alborufescens had an average of 25.8% protein, 5.5% fat, 12.7% ash, and 55.9% carbohydrates, including 11.4% fiber per dw of mushroom. Further analyses of the fat and protein contents revealed high amounts of polyunsaturated fatty acids as well as monosodium glutamate-like amino acids. Linoleic acid (42.0% of fat) and oleic acid (28.6% of fat) were the major fatty acids, while leucine (1.2%) and lysine (0.9%) were the most abundant essential amino acids. The results showed that C. alborufescens contained 3.1 µg/g vitamin D2 and 4.9 mg/g vitamin E per dw, as well as notable quantities of macro- and microelements, such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, and iron. GC-MS analysis revealed various volatile compounds such as acetaldehyde, n-hexanal, 3-methylbutanal, 1-octen-3-ol, etc. In conclusion, this study supports the use of C. alborufescens as a food rich in fiber and vitamin E, with a suitable amount of protein and other nutrients.

Spatial distribution of heavy metals in groundwater around automobile workshops in a popular Niger-Delta University town, Nigeria

The research was carried out to assess the concentration and distribution of heavy metals in groundwater from selected automobile workshops in Ozoro metropolis, a busy university town, in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. The major activities carried out in the sampled automobile workshops include vehicle maintenance, painting, panel beating and fabrication. Nine (9) groundwater samples from the automobile workshops and one control sample 2 km away from the influence area were analyzed. Heavy metal concentration, contamination factor, and pollution loading indices were investigated using geostatistical modeling and statistical analysis tools. Heavy metal concentrations in the various samples were determined in accordance with the Association of Official Agricultural Chemists (AOAC) International guidelines. Findings obtained from the study revealed that the groundwater was affected by leachates from the automobile workshops, as the heavy metal levels in the groundwater from the sampling sites were considerably higher than the reference point. The concentration ranges (mg/L) of the heavy metals were Cd (0.0217–0.0412), Cr (0.0643–0.0901), Cu (0.0599–0.0803), Fe (0.3118–0.4171), and Pb (0.1423–0.1781). The spatial distribution maps showed that the metals spread unevenly across the study area. The pollution indices revealed that groundwater from the sampling sites is moderately polluted with heavy metals and the trend of the pollution load index (PLI) is Cd > Ni > Cu > Mn > Pb > Zn > Fe. Comparing the results with those of international regulatory bodies, the groundwater from the study area was found to still be within the approved range for potable water. However, there is evidence of slight contamination due to the activities of the automobile workshops. This may call for minor treatment before usage, regular monitoring and ensuring that the artisans comply with relevant regulations in their operations.

Oxidative and Frying Stabilities of Monodora myristica (Gaertn.) Du-nal Seed Oil of Nigerian Origin

Background: The demand for vegetable oils is on the increase. Deep frying is the commonest method by which vegetable oils are consumed. The aim of this study was to extract oil from an underutilized oil seed and compare its physicochemical properties, frying, and oxidative stability with those of commercial refined palm oil.&#x0D; Methods: Oil was extracted from Monodora myristica seeds using a soxhlet fat extractor and the percentage oil yield was determined. The physicochemical, oxidative, and frying stabilities of the extracted M. myristica Seed Oil (MMSO) were evaluated based on the standard procedure of the Association of Official Agricultural Chemists and official methods and recommended practices of the American Oil Chemists Society and compared with those of commercial refined palm oil- Kings Vegetable Oil (KVO). Data were statistically analyzed using SPSS version 20.&#x0D; Results: The oil yield of M. myristica seed was 37.64%. The refractive index, specific gravity, moisture content (%), and peroxide value (mEq/kg) were respectively 1.470, 1.468, 0.923, and 0.917 for MMSO; and 0.220, 0.253, 1.05, and 3.50 for KVO. MMSO had better oxidative stability and showed 80% lesser peroxide formation than KVO. The frying stability of MMSO was better as it showed a lower increase in FFA (28.4%) and peroxide value (9.54 mEq/kg) than KVO (45.99% and 26.19 mEq/kg, respectively) after frying.&#x0D; Conclusion: Deteriorative effect of oxidation and polymerization was lower in MMSO than in KVO indicating MMSO to be superior frying oil suitable for repeated frying.

Rapid Quantitative Analysis of Metabolites in Kimchi Using LC-Q-Orbitrap MS.

Kimchi is a traditional Korean salted spontaneous lactic acid bacteria (LAB)-fermented food made using various vegetables. Organic acids, free sugars, and amino acids are key metabolites produced during LAB fermentation that determine the taste and quality of kimchi. However, each metabolite is typically analyzed using an independent analytical method, which is time-consuming and expensive. Therefore, in this study, we developed a method based on LC-Q-Orbitrap MS using which 20 types of representative fermented kimchi metabolites were selected and simultaneously analyzed within 10 min. The established method was validated, and its detection and quantification limits, linearity, precision, and accuracy were found to satisfy the Association of Official Agricultural Chemists (AOAC) validation guidelines. The 20 metabolites were simultaneously extracted from kimchi with different degrees of fermentation and quantitatively analyzed using LC-Q-Orbitrap MS. These results were analyzed using linear discriminant analysis and heat mapping, and the metabolites were grouped into early, middle, and late stages of fermentation. Malic acid (6.518-7.701 mMol) was only present in the initial stage of fermentation, and l-phenylalanine rapidly increased from the middle stage (2.180 mMol) to late stage (4.770 mMol). Lactic acid, which is representative of the sour taste of kimchi, was detected in the middle stage and increased rapidly up to 74.452 mMol in the late stage. In summary, in this study, 20 major kimchi metabolites were accurately analyzed within 10 min and grouped based on the degree of fermentation. Therefore, the method established in this study accurately and rapidly provides information on kimchi consumption and fermentation that could be highly valuable to the kimchi industry and kimchi consumers.

Nutritional profiling of some selected commercially important freshwater and marine water fishes of Bangladesh

The purpose of the study was to investigate the proximate composition and mineral content of Bangladesh's economically important freshwater and marine water fish. Proximate composition and mineral content was determined according to the Association of Official Agricultural Chemists (AOAC) standard method. All of the factors had a substantial variation (p < 0.05), according to the findings. The maximum protein content was observed in Lates calcarifer (18.673%) and minimum in Pangasius pangasius (15.616%). The content of lipid among the species varied from 0.316% to 13.396%, with Mugil cephalus having the highest lipid content and Channa striata having the lowest. The moisture content ranges from 68.343% to 81.160%. All the fishes have an average ash content of 0.850%–4.350%. The energy content is also significantly higher in marine water fishes. The mineral content was highly variable. Calcium content was lowest in Pangasius pangasius (0.555%) and highest in Setipinna phasa (3.495%). The magnesium content ranged between 0.281% and 1.885%. Phosphorus was lowest in Lepturacanthus savala (0.826%) and highest in Setipinna phasa (2.114%). The amount of sodium, potassium, and sulfur was relatively less for all fish species but there were substantial differences across the twelve samples. The PCA biplot's for proximate composition analyses has demonstrated positive affinity only between Lates calcarifer and Mugil cephalus in case of ash, lipid, and carbohydrate whereas Setipina phasa, Mugil cephalus, Lutjanus lutjanus, and Oreochromis mossambicus were grouped together with magnesium, phosphorus, calcium, and sulfur in the case of mineral content. Overall, the marine water fishes can be a good food item in terms of nutrition which could provide better health benefits for human.

VALIDATION OF LC-MS/MS METHOD FOR DETERMINATION OF CYPROHEPTADINE IN DIETARY SUPPLEMENTS

Aims: A rapid and sensitive liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometric (LC-MS/MS) method was validated for determination of prohibited cyproheptadine hydrochloride (CP) in dietary supplements.&#x0D; Methods: CP was extracted by sonication in methanol for 30 min. The chromatography separation of CP took place on C18 column (100 mm x 2.1 mm, 1.8 µm) with gradient mobile phase of both of acetonitrile and water containing 0.1% formic acid. Multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) in the positive mode was used to quantify and confirm CP at m/z 288.2/191.1 and 288.1/96.0, respectively.&#x0D; Results: The method was validated according to the AOAC requirements. The linearity ranges were found from 0.1 to 50 ng. mL-1 of CP (R2 = 1). The limit of detection and limit of quantification were 1.5 ng/g or ng/mL and 5 ng/g or ng/mL, respectively. The accuracy was within the range from 92 to 99%, with the relative standard deviation (RSD%) of 2.0-5.9%.&#x0D; Conclusion: The validated parameters have met the requirement of Association of Official Agricultural Chemists (AOAC). This reliable method would be useful for the monitoring of cyproheptadine in dietary supplements.

The role of soaking, steaming, and dehulling on the nutritional quality of Bambara groundnuts (Vigna subterranea (L) Verdc.)

Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea (L) Verdc.) is a leguminous plant that is widely cultivated in West Africa for its nutritious seeds. However, the hard-to-cook phenomenon of this legume affects its patronage by consumers. The quality and bioavailability of nutrients are affected by processing techniques during cooking. This study evaluated the effects of processing techniques on the nutritional quality of two Bambara groundnut varieties (namely, Simbi-bile and Sinkpili-zee). For this, each variety was subjected to four processing techniques, namely, (i) dehulled and soaked in water, (ii) dehulled and soaked in 1% NaHCO3 + 1% NaCl, (iii) dehulled and steamed, and (iv) Control. After sample processing, the Association of Official Agricultural Chemists (AOAC) standard protocols were used for chemical analysis. The results on proximate composition, anti-nutritional factors, and seed minerals composition showed significant variations among treatments. The main effects of variety and processing technique markedly influenced the parameters measured. Soaked Bambara groundnut with NaHCO3 reduced anti-nutritional factors. Steamed treatments yielded highest amount of protein (25.87%) while dehulled treated Bambara groundnut produced the highest amount of carbohydrate (42.77%). Calcium, potassium, and iron showed significant reduction (p ≤ 0.05) when dehulled. Additional sodium in processing Bambara increased mineral content of the crop. Anti-nutritional factor levels were also reduced significantly in simbi-bile when soaked. Proximate components (crude protein, crude fat, crude fiber, carbohydrate, and water) had significant changes in their compositions across all the processing techniques. From the correlation analysis, oxalate and phytate have some levels of effect in all varieties on every nutritional or mineral component. Total ash correlated negatively with crude fat and positively with phytate and oxalate. Dehulled and control did not reduce the anti-nutritional factors compared to NaHCO3 + NaCl. From the results, soaking of Bambara groundnuts in 1% NaHCO3 + 1% NaCl prior to cooking was effective in improving nutritional quality while overcoming the hard-to-cook phenomenon. The findings highlight the need to adopt correct processing techniques that conserve the nutritional benefits of these edible seeds. Soaking Bambara groundnut in NaHCO3 + NaCl as a processing technique increases mineral content while reducing anti-nutritional factors, and hence should be adapted.

Development of a new food composition table: An updated tool for estimating nutrient intake in Bangladeshi population

Valid and reliable food composition data have a crucial role in all nutrition-related activities in a country. However, existing food composition tables in Bangladesh date back to 1970s and are outdated in terms of data quality. Consequently, it was imperative to revise the food composition table for Bangladesh (FCTB). This paper describes the generation of an updated food composition database (FCDB) for Bangladesh following international standards. Primary analytical values from 74 foods (including 54 prioritized key foods (KFs)) were generated through component-specific Association of Official Agricultural Chemists (AOAC) or other internationally accredited methods. Secondary compositional values (analytical, estimated, borrowed, or calculated) were assembled and compiled in accordance with the International Network of Food Data Systems (INFOODS) guidelines and standards. The FCDB now contains updated and well-structured reliable values for 447 foods and 89 components that will have important usages for all stakeholders in the country and elsewhere.

Determination of 250 pesticide residues in the Iranian vegetables assessed during 2019–2020 using the modified QuEChERS method along with gas chromatography - mass spectrometry

In this study, association of official agricultural chemists(AOAC) international (2007) QuEChERS (quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged,and safe) method was developed with slight changes under the term of the modified QuEChERS method and was used along with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) for determination of 250 selected multiclass pesticides in vegetables (in total of 1436 samples) during 2019 - 2020 in iran. The principles of this method are similar to the conventional QuEChERS method and involve extraction of acetonitrile, followed by the dispersed solid-phase extraction (SPE) purification with a combination of primary-secondary amine (PSA) adsorbent and MgSO4 but with slight changes in steps of sample preparation and volume of organic solvent and amount of adsorbent. For performance evaluation, validation method was carried out. After applying changes and experiments, recovery yields ranged from 77.1 to 113.2%, with repeatabilities of 4.4–19.2%. The limits of detection (LODs) were between 0.0016 - 0.044 for target analytes in extract of vegetable samples. The expanded measurement uncertainty was not higher than 30% for all target analytes. The method was successfully applied for analysis of 1,436 vegetable samples obtained from local markets and vegetable traders. There were no residues in 69.76% of samples. A portion (25.49%) of the samples contained pesticide residues less than or equal to the maximum residue limits (MRLs), and 4.94% of samples contained pesticide residues greater than their MRLs. Our findings provided useful information on the current contamination status of a key agricultural area in iran from 2019 to 2020 and highlighted the need for regular monitoring of pesticide residues in a greater number of vegetable samples for longer periods.

Chemical Composition, Phytochemical Constituent, and Toxicity of Methanol Extract of Brown Algae (Padina sp.) from Puntondo Coast, Takalar (Indonesia)

Background: Padina sp. is an algae that has potential as a functional food. This study aimed to explore the chemical and photochemical constituent in the methanolic exract of Padina sp. Methods: Brown algae of Padina sp. from Puntondo coast, Takalar, Indonesia was prepared. The algae characterization was carried out based on the standard procedure of Association of Official Agricultural Chemists (AOAC). Toxicity of Padina sp. was. determined with Brine Shrimp Lethality Test (BSLT). Results: Chemical contents were 13.46% water, 38.02% ash, 12.33% protein, 1.60% fat, 20.02% fiber, and 48.06% carbohydrate. The FTIR spectrum displayed the presence of hydroxyl, carboxylic acids, aldehydes, aliphatic hydrocarbons, fatty acids, and unsaturated hydrocarbons. Padina sp. extract consisted of phytol compound which had 70-96% similarity with steroids, fatty acids, carboxylic acids, terpenoid, and proteins. The result of toxicity was 6344.54 ppm indicating not toxic. Conclusion: Padina sp. can be used as a raw material source for functional food and pharmaceutical industry.

Determination of proximate composition, selected essential and heavy metals in sesame seeds (Sesamum indicum L.) from the Ethiopian markets and assessment of the associated health risks

In this study, the proximate composition, levels of essential and heavy metals; and health risk assessment were evaluated in sesame seed (Sesamum indicum L.) samples purchased randomly from local markets of three study sites in Ethiopia. A 0.15 g of dried and homogenized samples were digested using 6 mL of HNO3 (69–72%) and 3 mL of HClO4 (70%) at 120 °C for 3 h. The levels of proximate composition and essential metals in the sesame samples were determined by the Association of Official Agricultural Chemists (AOAC) and Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometer (FAAS), respectively. The moisture content, crude fiber, ash content, fat, crude proteins and carbohydrate of sesame samples ranged between 3.15% and 5.52%, 4.21–4.40%, 3.10–4.75%, 55.75–56.9%, 22.65–23.39% and 8.34–8.80%, respectively. The accuracy of the procedure was validated by percent recovery of samples for all metals varied from 85.60% to 102.00%. The mean levels of the metals (mg/kg) were found in the range of 37.20–70.10 (Na), 315.1–338.00 (K), 209.00–216.50 (Mg), 328.00–341.30 (Ca), 12.60–12.90 (Fe), 4.90–5.00 (Cu) and 8.30–8.70 (Zn) mg/kg. The THQ values of heavy metals were found < 1, indicating that the consumption of sesame may not cause health risks to local consumers. The values of HI ranged from 1.5 × 10−3 to 1.8 × 10−3 in the study areas and may not have a possible adverse health effect on the adult population from the consumption of sesame seeds.

Morphological characteristics and nutritional value of binthe kiki, a local maize variety from Gorontalo, Indonesia

Abstract. Ahmad J, Kandowangko NY, Solang M, Najamuddin E. 2021. Morphological characteristics and nutritional value of binthe kiki, a local maize variety from Gorontalo, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 22: 3523-3529. Gorontalo is among the coastal areas in Tomini bay with diverse varieties of local maize. Despite that, the population of local maize has seen a steady decline over the years. A literature study reports that local maize has adapted well to the environment in which it grows. Local maize is also hailed by the community as a source of food, animal feed, and the main ingredient of traditional medicines. The present study aims to investigate the morphological characteristics and nutritional value of binthe kiki local maize variety. Employing a quantitative descriptive method, the data of morphological characteristics were collected by referring to the maize descriptor guidelines, while the data of the nutritional value of maize kernels (regarding the proximate and mineral contents) were analyzed by referring to the Indonesian National Standard and Association of Official Agricultural Chemists (AOAC) standards. The findings show that the morphological characteristics of binthe kiki variety are as follows: (i) an average plant height of 161 cm; (ii) each stalk has three cobs with an average height of 119 cm; (iii) an average stalk circumference of 6.35 cm; (iv) an average of 12 leaves per stalk; (v) 71.12 cm of an average length of leaves; (vi) 5.21 cm of an average width of leaves; (vii) the direction of the leaf blade, on average, is slightly curved; (viii) the average leaf tip is pointed; (ix) an average cob length of 8.4 cm; (x) an average cob diameter of 2.74 cm; (xi) an average cob weight (without husk) of 0.054 kg/cob; (xii) an average of 24 kernels per row; (xiii) an average weight per 1000 kernels of 145 gram. Binthe kiki variety has high contents of protein, carbohydrate, zinc, and calcium, yet it is low in fat contents compared to other varieties.

Steroidal saponins of Trillium govanianum: Quality control, pharmacokinetic analysis, and anti-inflammatory activity

The rhizomes of Trillium govanianum have traditionally been used in the Ayurvedic system of medicine to treat inflammation, pain, burn, and reproductive malfunctions. However, the ethanopharmacology and chemical constituents of T. govanianum have not been effusively explored to date. The present study attempted to uncover the phytochemical constituents and quality parameters of T. govanianum rhizomes, along with an evaluation of the anti-inflammatory potential of the extract, fractions, and isolated steroidal saponins. The quality of T. govanianum rhizomes was examined by standard guidelines of the Association of Official Agricultural Chemists (AOAC). The phytochemical composition of rhizomes was estimated by the spectroscopic method. The extract, fractions, and pure molecules were tested for their anti-inflammatory potential using lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages. Besides that, computational pharmacokinetics properties of bioactive compounds were screened by using the Schrödinger software. The quality control parameters such as moisture content, ash value, pH, heavy metals, alpha toxins, residual pesticides, and microbial load were observed within the permitted limits as per AOAC guidelines, suggesting good quality and safe nature of T. govanianum rhizomes. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of steroidal saponins (78.3 ± 0.61 mg/g), phenolics (12.3 ± 2.76 mg/g), flavonoids (3.54 ± 0.24 mg/g), and carbohydrates (473 ± 2.27 mg/g) in the rhizomes. Macrophages cytocompatibility demonstrated that cell viability was not affected at any tested concentration of extract, fractions and pure compounds [diosgenin ( 1 ), borassoside D ( 2 ), and govanoside B ( 7 )]. The LPS-stimulated macrophages secreted nitric oxide (NO) and pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF α , IL-1 β, and IL-6), which were inhibited by the extract, fractions, and compounds 1 , 2 , and 7 in a concentration-independent manner. Additionally, in silico pharmacokinetics revealed that compound 1 has good membrane-permeability followed by compound 2 , while compound 7 showed the non-membrane permeability. This study validates the traditional uses of rhizomes of T. govanianum in the treatment of inflammation, and this activity might be due to the presence of steroidal saponins . • Assessment of different quality control parameters of Trillium govanianum and all were observed within the permitted limits as per AOAC guidelines. • Phytochemical analysis revealed saponins (78.3 ± 0.61 mg/g), as the major constituents of this plant. • Anti-inflammatory and in silico pharmacokinetics activity evaluation of the extract, fractions, and three pure steroidal saponins of T. govanianum using lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages. • Pure molecules effectively inhibit the production of cytokines (TNF- α , IL1 β , and IL-6) as compared with extract and fractions.

Quantitation of lupeol from stem bark extract of Betula alnoides Buch.-Ham. ex D.Don by two validated RP-HPLC and TLC-densitometric methods

To control the quality of Betula alnoides stem bark (BAS), lupeol, which is a promising compound found in BAS, has been determined by reverse phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) and thin-layer chromatography (TLC)-densitometry. These methods were developed and validated according to the International Council for Harmonization (ICH) and the Association of Official Agricultural Chemists (AOAC) guidelines. RP-HPLC was achieved within 10 min using C8 column under an isocratic elution of acetonitrile at a flow rate of 1.0 mL/min. Lupeol was detected at a UV wavelength of 200 nm. TLC-densitometry performed on TLC silica gel plates was developed by chloroform at 10 cm of distance. Lupeol was detected under visible wavelength at 525 nm after anisaldehyde-sulfuric acid derivatization. Both developed methods exhibited good linearity, specificity, limits of detection and quantitation, accuracy and precision, and robustness. The validated methods were effectively applied to determine lupeol content in BAS collected from three different locations. The amount of lupeol was found to be about 50–100 µg/g of dried powder. The results revealed no statistically significant differences between the two methods. These findings revealed the validated RP-HPLC and TLC-densitometry that were easily applied for routine quality control of BAS for the first time.