Gas Chromatography-mass Spectrometry Analysis Research Articles

An antifungal compound secreted by termite workers, phenylacetic acid, inhibits the growth of both termite egg-mimicking fungus and entomopathogenic fungi

AbstractSocial insects live in closely related family groups but face risks of intrusion and infection by pathogenic and parasitic microbes. To cope with the microbes invading their nests and feeding sites, social insects produce various types of antimicrobial substances. Subterranean termites occupy microbe-rich decaying wood and soil at high density, expanding their nest area by exploring and feeding on wood outward from the royal chamber (room for kings and queens). Although antimicrobial agents have been identified in many termite species, few studies have investigated those used by foraging workers in decaying wood under development, which is richer in microbes than the well-sterilized royal chamber and its surroundings. Here, we report that phenylacetic acid, an antifungal aromatic compound, is secreted by foraging workers of the Japanese subterranean termite Reticulitermes speratus. The compound was detected by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis of ethyl acetate extracts of shelter papers infested with the workers, and antimicrobial tests demonstrated that it inhibits the germination and/or mycelial growth of the entomopathogenic fungi (Metarhizium anisopliae and Beauveria bassiana) and the termite egg-mimicking fungus Athelia termitophila. Our study provides new insights into the antimicrobial defense mechanisms of termites, including by combining different types of antimicrobial substances secreted by different castes, and thus the survival strategy of entomopathogenic and parasitic fungi in termite nests.

Antimicrobial, antibiofilm, and antiviral investigations using egyptian phoenix dactylifera L. pits extract

Phoenix dactylifera L. and its wastes are known to be high in nutrients that are beneficial to human health. The study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial, antibiofilm, and antiviral properties of Phoenix dactylifera L. pits extract (PDPE) in vitro. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS) analysis indicated phenol, 2,5-bis(1,1-dimethyl ethyl), tetradecanoic acid, octaethylene glycol monododecyl ether, á-D-glucopyranosiduronic acid, and heptaethylene glycol monododecyl ether existence. The PDPE influenced pathogenic microorganisms, with inhibition zone diameters (IZDs) ranging from 10.0 to 35.0 mm. Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 5638 had the highest IZD, while Salmonella typhi DSM 17058 and Shigella sonnei DSM 5570 had the lowest. The antifungal effect observed only in spore failure or conidia formation. PDPE showed a 100% antibacterial spectrum against bacteria, with MIC values between 250 and 1000 µg/ml. MIC was only indicated with S. aureus of 500 µg/ml. MBC values ranged from 500 to 1000 g/ml, with MBC values of 500 g/ml for B. cereus, E. faecalis, S. typhi, and S. sonnei. The activity was 66.7% at 500 µg/ml, further concentrations of 125–250 g/ml had no antibacterial effect. PDPE biofilm inhibition % had the highest percentage of inhibition (98.59%) with S. aureus, B. cereus (94.12%), and E. coli (74.46%). With 50% (CC50) viral activity, the highest non-toxic PDPE dose was found to be at 123.0 µg/ml.

206,977 newborn screening results reveal the ethnic differences in the spectrum of inborn errors of metabolism in Huaihua, China

BackgroundInborn errors of metabolism (IEMs) are rare diseases caused by inherited defects in various biochemical pathways that strongly correlate with early neonatal mortality and stunting. Currently, no studies have reported on the incidence of IEMs of multi-ethnic groups in Huaihua, China.MethodsA total of 206,977 neonates with self-reported ethnicity who underwent IEM screening at Huaihua from 2015 to 2021 were selected for observation. Among them, 69 suspected IEM-positive neonates were referred for urine gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis, biochemical detection, next-generation sequencing, and Sanger sequencing.ResultsSixty-nine newborns were diagnosed with IEMs, with an overall incidence of 1:3,000. The two most common disorders were 2-methylbutyryl glycinuria (1:7,137) and phenylalanine hydroxylase deficiency (1:22,997). Moreover, the incidence of IEMs in the minority ethnic group (Miao, Dong, Tujia and Yao) (1:1,852) was markedly higher than in the Han ethnic group (1:4,741). Some ethnic features variants were identified; NM_001609.4:c.1165A>G in the ACADSB gene for Miao and Dong ethnic groups, NM_014251.2:c.852_855del in the SLC25A13 gene for Miao ethnic groups.ConclusionThis study revealed the IEM incidence within the minority ethnic groups is markedly higher than among the Han nationality and the gene variant spectrum is dramatically different in Huaihua, China. Hence, It serves as a theoretical reference for the screening and diagnosing of neonatal IEMs of multi-ethnic groups in the Huaihua area, and across China.

Influence of Sporophyte Emergence on Phytochemical Constituents and Antimicrobial Activity of Hyophila Involuta (Pottiaceae) – A Bryophyte Species

Hyophila involuta (Hook) Jaeg., a sample collected from a natural population in the Biological Garden, Obafemi Awolowo University, Nigeria, was sorted into non-sporophytic and sporophytic gametophytes. This was with a view to investigating the possible influence of sporophyte emergence on the bioactive constituents and the antimicrobial potentials of the moss plant. Aqueous extracts of each of the non-sporophytic and the sporophytic gametophyte samples were prepared, and each was subjected to qualitative and quantitative phytochemical screening, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analyses, and antimicrobial potentials tests on selected bacteria and fungi following standard procedures. The results showed both extracts testing positive for alkaloids, cardiac glycosides, saponins, and steroids. Quantitatively, alkaloids and cardiac glycosides concentrations were higher in the non-sporophytic than in the sporophytic gametophytes. Nevertheless, the saponins content was higher in sporophytic gametophytes. GC-MS analyses revealed 40 and 46 bioactive compounds in the non-sporophytic and the sporophytic gametophyte samples respectively. The most prominent compound was 1, 13-tetradecadiene (13.62%) in the non-sporophytic gametophyte but cycloheptasiloxane tetradecamethyl- (13.78%) in the sporophytic game-tophyte. Furthermore, the sporophytic gametophyte extract inhibited the growth of Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Candida pseudotropicalis while the non-sporophytic gametophyte extract only inhibited the growth of P. aeruginosa at a minimum inhibitory concentration of 40 mg/mL except for C. pseudotropicalis (20 mg/mL). This study, therefore, provided insight for investigating the medicinal values of bryophytes and concluded that the emergence of sporophytes on gametophytes of a bryophyte species can vary significantly the synthesis of its biologically active compounds and its antimicrobial activity.

Optimum Condition for the Formation of β-ionone by Thermal Decomposition of Carotenoids Extract from Orange Sweet Potato (Ipomoea Batatas L.)

Introduction The need for rose aromatic compounds is very high globally, where the beta-ionone compound as a precursor for rose aroma can be produced through the oxidation process of carotenoids, especially beta carotene. Therefore, Beta-ionone is the compound responsible for the rose fragrance, which is needed industrially. Carotenoids are easily degraded by various factors, namely heat, oxygen, light and enzymatic. This research has carried out heat degradation of carotene compounds extracted from orange sweet potato to determine the effect of heating time on forming aromatic compounds such as Beta-ionone and dihydroactinidiolide (dhA). Methodology Thermal degradation of carotene was carried out at 140°C for 1, 2, 3, and 4 h. The constant oxygen concentration of 7 l.h-1 was used to induce the oxidation. The spectrophotometric analysis of total carotene and the gas chromatographic-mass spectrometry analysis of volatile compounds were conducted to clarify the efficiency of the carotene degradation process and aromatic compounds' formation, respectively. Results Orange sweet potatoes contain 1.2% of carotenoids on a dry weight basis. Beta-ionone and dihydroactinidiolide compounds increased along with decreased total carotene value during heating. The results showed that heating sweet potato carotene at 140°C for 4 h caused carotene degradation of up to 93%. Therefore, the optimum thermal degradation treatment for the formation of β-ionone and dhA compounds was the heating condition at a temperature of 140°C for 4 h. Conclusion This research has shown the potential of sweet potatoes as a non-aromatic raw material that can be used to produce aromatic compounds. The use of the crude extract in this research means that the beta-ionone content in the product after oxidation is still low due to the presence of other components; this needs to be a concern for further research.

Comparable analysis of flavor compounds and quality assessment of fermented bean curd using HS-SPME-GC/MS and colorimetric sensor array

This study aims to develop an effective tool by integrating traditional analysis methods with advanced sensor array technology and multiple algorithms, to achieve rapid characterization, qualitative identification, and flavor quality evaluation of fermented bean products. Firstly, the flavor compounds and flavor profiles of fermented bean curd from different manufacturers were identified using headspace solid-phase microextraction gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC/MS) and quantitative descriptive analysis (QDA). A total of 63 volatile compounds were identified, of which 13 volatile compounds were identified as the key differential compounds in selected samples. Eight descriptors were selected to represent the aroma characteristics of fermented bean curd. Based on the key differential compounds, a low-cost colorimetric sensor array (CSA) was designed and constructed. Furthermore, the feasibility of CSA combined with multiple algorithms was investigated for brand discrimination and flavor quality assessment. Linear discriminant analysis (LDA) exhibited a better performance in distinguishing different flavor quality samples, and the recognition accuracy of its prediction set was 97.22%. The study suggests that CSA combined with multiple algorithms can be an effective tool for flavor characterization and qualitative discrimination of fermented bean curd, and can provide a new multi-dimensional analysis method for food analysis.

Mycorrhizal Symbiosis Can Change the Composition of Secondary Metabolites in Fruits ofSolanum nigrumL.

Solanum nigrum is a common weed in arable land, while being used in traditional medicine around the world due to its remarkable levels of valuable secondary metabolites. Agronomic and biological techniques can alter the production of a specific metabolite by influencing plant growth and metabolism. The effects of colonization with three arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), including Funneliformis mosseae, Rhizoglomus intraradices, and Rhizoglomus fasciculatum, on the chemical composition of S. nigrum fruits were evaluated by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. More than 100 different chemical constituents were evaluated by GC-MS. Our study revealed that the levels of phenols (quinic acid), benzenes (hydroquinone), sulfur-containing compounds, lactone and carboxylic acids were improved by R. intraradices. In contrast, hydroxymethylfurfural increased by 68% in R. fasciculatum inoculated with uninoculated S. nigrum plants, and this species was also the most efficient in inducing sugar compounds (D-galactose, lactose, and melezitose). Our results suggest that AMF colonization is an effective biological strategy that can alter the chemical composition and improve the medicinal properties of S. nigrum.

Enhanced antioxidant activity in Curcuma caesia Roxb. microrhizomes treated with silver nanoparticles

Curcuma caesia Roxb. is a highly valuable, endangered herb of therapeutic importance that resides in their rhizomes. In the present investigation, the effect of ½ strength liquid Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with 1 mg/l Indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) and different sucrose concentrations (1.5%, 3%, 6%, 9%, or 12%) was studied on microrhizomes induction of C. caesia. The shoot length, root length and microrhizomes dry weight of C. caesia decreased significantly at 6% sucrose and above. When compared to the control (1.5% sucrose), the current water content significantly decreased at 6% sucrose. The optimum concentration for in vitro microrhizomes induction in C. caesia was 6% sucrose. Therefore for further experiments, the 6% sucrose was used. We also studied the effect of silver nanoparticles (AgNP) on microrhizome induction and antioxidant activity in C. caesia cultures. Field-grown C. caesia rhizomes extract was used in the green synthesis of AgNP. The synthesized AgNP was further characterized through scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. The AgNP, ranging from 0, 0.025, 0.05, 0.075 or 0.1 mg/l was supplemented in ½ strength liquid MS medium with 6% sucrose and 1 mg/l IBA. The MS medium with 0.05 mg/l AgNP found with significant morphological changes in C. caesia cultures (root number, root length and microrhizomes fresh weight). For the total phenolic and total terpenoids content estimation as well as for antioxidant activity analysis, the extracts of un-treated cultures (6% sucrose + 1 mg/l IBA, without AgNP), AgNP treated cultures (6% sucrose + 1 mg/l IBA with 0.025 and 0.05 mg/l AgNP) was used. The 0.025 and 0.05 mg/l AgNP enhanced the phenolic and terpenoid content in the cultures compared to the field-grown mother plant. The antioxidant activity of the cultures treated with AgNP also increased compared to un-treated cultures and field-grown mother plant. The Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis revealed that the extract treated with 0.05 mg/l AgNP had increased production of monoterpene (camphor) and sesquiterpenes (β-elemenone and curcumenone). These increased terpenes could be responsible for the enhanced antioxidant activity of C. caesia cultures.

Unveiling Therapeutic Effects of Thymbra spicata L. on Cystic Echinococcosis

Background: The hydatid cyst (cystic echinococcosis) is the larval stage of Echinococcusgranulosus sensu lato, which accounts for significant zoonotic infections worldwide. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro and in vivo efficacy of the essential oil derived from Thymbra spicata L. (TSEO) against protoscoleces (PSCs) and hydatid cysts of E. granulosus. Methods: The components of TSEO were characterized using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The in vitro effects of TSEO on PSCs were determined using the eosin exclusion test. The effect of TSEO on caspase-3 gene expression and exterior ultrastructure of PSCs was investigated using real-time PCR and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), respectively. In vivo effects of TSEO at doses of 20, 30, and 40 mg/kg/day were also studied in mice with hydatid cysts. Results: Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis showed that the main compounds in TSEO were carvacrol (65.88%), γ-terpinene (9.71%), and p-cymene (7.82%), respectively. The results showed the highest lethality of TSEO at 30 µg/mL after 60 minutes of exposure. The IC50 value was 18.60 µg/mL after 60 minutes of exposure to TSEO. After exposing PSCs to TSEO, the expression level of the caspase-3 gene increased over time with increasing concentration (P < 0.05). Scanning electron microscopy images of the cyst treated with 50 µL/mL of TSEO showed ultrastructural damage, rostellar disorganization, alterations in the teguments, and deformation of the cyst structure. In the in vivo assay, it was found that the average number, size, and weight of hydatid cysts decreased significantly (P < 0.05) after treatment with TSEO. The maximum efficacy was observed after treatment with TSEO at a dose of 40 mg/kg, resulting in a significant decrease in the number, weight, and size of hydatid cysts by 9.6 ± 1.51, 2.64 ± 0.39 g, and 0.18 ± 0.022 mm, respectively. Conclusions: The study findings confirmed the promising in vitro and in vivo effects of TSEO against hydatid cyst infection. Considering the possible mechanisms, TSEO provoked cell wall damage and induced apoptosis. However, more studies are needed to confirm these findings and clarify the precise mechanisms of action.

Influence of Cold Stress on Physiological and Phytochemical Characteristics and Secondary Metabolite Accumulation in Microclones of Juglans regia L.

The current study investigated the impact of cold stress on the morphological, physiological, and phytochemical properties of Juglans regia L. (J. regia) using in vitro microclone cultures. The study revealed significant stress-induced changes in the production of secondary antioxidant metabolites. According to gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analyses, the stress conditions profoundly altered the metabolism of J. regia microclones. Although the overall spectrum of metabolites was reduced, the production of key secondary antioxidant metabolites significantly increased. Notably, there was a sevenfold (7×) increase in juglone concentration. These findings are crucial for advancing walnut metabolomics and enhancing our understanding of plant responses to abiotic stress factors. Additionally, study results aid in identifying the role of individual metabolites in these processes, which is essential for developing strategies to improve plant resilience and tolerance to adverse conditions.

Preliminary Screening for the Anthelmintic Activity of Millettia zechiana Harms and Its Modifying Effect on Albendazole.

Helminthic infections affect a greater proportion of the world's population. This study determined the anthelmintic activity of Millettia zechiana and its modifying effect on albendazole. Powdered leaves of M. zechiana were successively extracted with petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, and ethanol. The anthelmintic potential of the M. zechiana leaf extracts and the modifying effects of the extracts on albendazole were determined on Pheretima posthuma. Phytochemical and gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) analyses were performed to determine the chemical composition of each extract. The plant extracts of M. zechiana had few or all phytoconstituents such as tannins, saponins, flavonoids, glycosides, terpenoids, phytosterols, and alkaloids present. The IC50 obtained for albendazole, petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, and ethanol extracts for paralysis time were 0.936, 1.722, 1.283, and 1.348 mg/mL, respectively. The IC50 obtained for albendazole and the ethanol extract for death time were 4.638 and 4.988 mg/mL. The ethanol extract at 10 and 5 mg/mL caused death in the worms after 152.5 ± 8.66 minutes and 304.8 ± 7.27 minutes of exposure, respectively. Ethanol, ethyl acetate, and petroleum ether extracts of M. zechiana significantly modified the activity of albendazole at concentrations of 2.5 and 1.25 mg/mL (P < 0.0001). The ethanol extract which exhibited the best anthelminthic activity was fractionated through column chromatography, and five (5) fractions were obtained. Fractions 1, 2, 4, and 5 had the best paralytic activities against the worms. Fractions 1 and 2 demonstrated better helminthicidal activity than albendazole, which had an IC50 of 3.915. The GC-MS analysis of the ethanol, ethyl acetate, and petroleum ether extracts showed the presence of 10, 10, and 37 compounds, respectively, with 9-octadecenamide, (Z)-, n-hexadecanoic acid, oleic acid, and some aromatic compounds being the most predominant. The results obtained indicate that M. zechiana leaf extract possesses anthelmintic activity.

Exploring Eucalyptus globulus phytochemicals: analytical, antibacterial, and molecular docking investigations

This study presents a comprehensive investigation into chemical composition, antibacterial activity and molecular interactions of phytocompounds present in Eucalyptus globulus leaf extracts. Gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy analysis was employed to identify and quantify the bioactive compounds present in the extracts. The major phytocompounds are found to be 1,8- cineole, α-pinene and α-guaiene. The antibacterial potential of extracts was evaluated against gram-positive and negative strains using agar well-diffusion assay. The methanolic extract showed more antibacterial activity for Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli strains having inhibition zone of 17.6 ± 0.94 and 21.3 ± 0.47mm respectively when compared to petroleum ether extracts having zone of inhibition of 13 ± 0.81 and 17.3 ± 0.47mm respectively for Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli strains. Molecular docking studies provided insights into binding modes and interaction between phytocompounds and bacterial targets. The results shed light on the potential mechanisms of antibacterial action, enhancing our understanding of efficacy of phytocompounds. The ADMET and toxicity studies further validates the phytocompounds as promising candidates for further exploration and development of novel antibacterial agents.

The presence and physico-chemical properties of microplastics in seawater, sediment, and several organs of the spotted scat fish (Scatophagus argus, Linnaeus, 1766) collected from different locations along the East Java coast in Indonesia

A comprehensive study was undertaken to examine the contamination of spotted scat fish (Scatophagus argus) with microplastics (MP) in various locations along the East Java coast of Indonesia. The purpose of this study was to collect detailed information regarding the abundance, color, shape, size, type of polymer, and chemical components of the MP. The findings of this study indicated that MP exhibiting distinct attributes—including a specific fiber type, black coloration, and a size range of 1000– <5000 μm—was most abundant in the gill, stomach, and intestines of spotted scat fish of varying lengths. And MP with a size range of 100–<500 μm was prevalent in the sediment. MP with black fragments measuring less than 100 μm in diameter were found primarily in seawater. A positive correlation was identified between fish length and MP abundance in the intestines, as indicated by the Spearman correlation coefficient. Conversely, a negative correlation was detected between fish length and MP abundance in the gills. The findings of the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analyses, which indicate the presence of various polymers and chemical substances including plasticizers (e.g., diethyl phthalate, decane, and eicosane), stabilizers (2-piperidinone, hexadecanoic acid, mesitylene, and 2,4-Di-tert-butylphenol), and flame retardant (cyclododecene), in fish, are of the utmost importance. These substances have the potential to endanger the health of both animals and humans if they are ingested through the food chain.

Comparative study on the repellency and chemical profiles of different chilli peppers formulations against Sitophilus oryzae L. (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) in stored wheat

The weevil Sitophilus oryzae L. (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) is the major insect pest of stored grains, including wheat. This study tested the repellency effectiveness of three formulations, including chilli dry powder (CDP), chilli ethanol extract (CEE), and chilli crude extract (CCE), from different chilli peppers of Capsicum annuum L. and Capsicum chinense Jacquin varieties (Solanaceae), against S. oryzae using a modified cup bioassay arena. Repellency responses varied significantly (P ≤ 0.001) within the three different formulations, where the CEE formulation at the concentration of 5 g (w/w) demonstrated the highest effectiveness, effectively deterring the highest number of insects (mean number of repelled insects ± SE) after 24 h of treatment across tested chilli varieties such as Guntur Sannam chilli (GSC) (15.0 ± 0.6), Kashmiri chilli (KC) (16.0 ± 0.0), and Bhut Jolokia chilli (BJC) (18.0 ± 0.6). CDP formulation closely followed, displaying notable repellency activity against the same varieties. Conversely, the CCE formulation exhibited the least effectiveness in repelling the adult weevils. Thus, the repellency activity observed was time-, concentration-, and formulation-dependent. Further, the percentage repellency (PR) assay conducted by following the area preference method demonstrated that the Bhut Jolokia chilli exhibited the highest repellency percentage (61.2%) at a concentration of 0.251 μg/cm2, by categorizing it as a class IV repellent. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis detected the presence of capsaicinoids like capsaicin and dihydrocapsaicin, alongside various non-capsaicinoids such as n-hexadecanoic acid and n-pentadecylacetamide, etc., in the ethanolic fraction of chilli pepper varieties, suggesting that the observed differences in the repellency activity might be attributed to varying chemical compositions, warranting further detailed exploration in this domain. These findings provide valuable primary insights into the prospective application of chilli pepper formulations from different varieties as a repellent against S. oryzae.

Enhancing high-density microalgae cultivation via exogenous supplementation of biostimulant derived from onion peel waste for sustainable biodiesel production

Microalgae demonstrate significant potential as a source of liquid-based biofuels. However, increasing biomass productivity in existing cultivation systems is a critical prerequisite for their successful integration into large-scale operations. Thus, the current work aimed to accelerate the growth of C. vulgaris via exogenous supplementation of biostimulant derived from onion peel waste. Under the optimal growth conditions, which entailed a biostimulant dosage of 37.5% v/v, a pH of 3, an air flow rate of 0.4 L/min, and a 2% v/v inoculum harvested during the mid-log phase, yielded a maximum biomass concentration of 1.865 g/L. Under the arbitrarily optimized parameters, a comparable growth pattern was evident in the upscaled cultivation of C. vulgaris, underscoring the potential commercial viability of the biostimulant. The biostimulant, characterized through gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis, revealed a composition rich in polyphenolic and organo-sulphur compounds, notably including allyl trisulfide (28.13%), methyl allyl trisulfide (23.04%), and allyl disulfide (20.78%), showcasing potent antioxidant properties. Additionally, microalgae treated with the biostimulant consistently retained their lipid content at 18.44% without any significant reduction. Furthermore, a significant rise in saturated fatty acid (SFA) content was observed, with C16:0 and C18:1 dominating both bench-scale (44.08% and 14.01%) and upscaled (51.12% and 13.07%) microalgae cultures, in contrast to the control group where C18:2 was prevalent. Consequently, SFA contents reached 54.35% and 65.43% in bench-scale and upscaled samples respectively, compared to 33.73% in the control culture. These compositional characteristics align well with the requirements for producing high-quality crude biodiesel.

Antioxidant Effects and Potential Molecular Mechanism of Action of Diplocyclos palmatus (L.) C. Jeffrey Fruits Based on Systematic Network Pharmacology with Experimental Validation

Oxidative stress arises from an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the ability of biological systems to detoxify these reactive intermediates or repair the resulting damage. Diplocyclos palmatus (D. palmatus) is a medicinal plant, whose fruits has been reported to have antioxidant activity due to its potent bioactive compounds, and holds promise for mitigating oxidative stress and its associated diseases. Therefore, this study aims to elucidate the bioactive compounds present in D. palmatus via Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis and evaluate their antioxidant activity via different in-vitro antioxidant assays such as, DPPH free radical scavenging assay, ABTS radical scavenging assay, ferric reducing antioxidant power assay, hydroxyl free radical scavenging assay and reactive nitrogen oxide scavenging assay. Furthermore, systematic network pharmacology, molecular docking and molecular dynamics were utilized to identify major bioactive compounds and their interactions with key proteins implicated in oxidative stress to understand the molecular mechanism of action of D. palmatus fruits. The obtained results indicated that the fruit extract had highest antioxidant activity against hydroxyl free radicals (IC50 = 476.76 µg/mL) followed by nitric oxide radicals (IC50 = 509.06 µg/mL), DPPH• (IC50 = 601.88 µg/mL), ABTS•+ (IC50 = 709.37 µg/mL) and FRAP (IC50 = 1141.76 µg/mL). In network pharmacology analysis, bioactive compounds of D. palmatus fruits were found to target numerous major cellular proteins (AKT1, GAPDH, ALB, CASP3, PTGS2, PPARG, STAT3, EGFR, ESR1 and MMP9), with a notable impact on the estrogen signaling pathway. Molecular docking and dynamics analysis further validated the antioxidant potential of D. palmatus fruits. Overall, this integrative study sheds light on the antioxidant potential of D. palmatus fruits and elucidates the molecular mechanisms underpinning their antioxidative actions. These findings not only deepen the understanding of D. palmatus phytochemistry but also highlight its therapeutic potential as a natural antioxidant agent for combating oxidative stress-related disorders.

Effects of steam explosion-modified rice bran dietary fiber on volatile flavor compounds retention and release of red date-flavored naan (ethnic specialty food of Xinjiang) during storage

This study explored the effects of steam explosion-modified rice bran dietary fiber (S-RBDF) on red date-flavored naan quality and flavor characteristics. The results revealed that the rheological properties of the dough were improved with the incremental addition of S-RBDF (0–5%). The microstructure revealed that adding an appropriate amount of S-RBDF (1–5%) enabled more starch granules to be embedded in the dough network. Notably, the addition of 5% S-RBDF resulted in naan with an optimum specific volume and texture, which consumers preferred. Additionally, gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis showed that adding S-RBDF to naan contributed to the retention and sustained release of pleasant volatile compounds (e.g. red date flavor, etc.), while inhibiting the development of unpleasant volatile compounds by delaying the oxidation and decomposition of lipids and preserving the antioxidant phenolic compounds, thus contributing to flavor maintenance of naan during storage. Overall, these results provided a foundation for developing high-quality flavored naan.

Bio-functional properties and phytochemical composition of selected Apis mellifera honey from Africa

Globally, the demand for natural remedies such as honey to manage ailments has increased. Yet, the health benefits and chemical composition of African honeys are not yet well understood. Therefore, this study aimed to characterise the bio-functional properties and the phytochemical composition of 18 Apis mellifera honeys from Kenya, Uganda, and Cameroon in comparison to the popular and commercially available Manuka 5+ honey from New Zealand. The 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging assay (DPPH-RSA) assay was used to determine the antioxidant property, whilst the agar well diffusion and broth dilution (Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC)) assays were used to determine antimicrobial property. Colorimetric methods were used for phytochemical analysis. Our results showed that honeys collected from Rift Valley region of Kenya (e.g. Poi, Salabani and Mbechot) and Western region of Cameron (e.g. Bangoulap) had the highest antioxidant (DPPH RSA of 41.52-43.81%), antimicrobial (MIC (3.125-6.25% w/v) and MBC (6.25-12.5% w/v)) activities. Additionally, the total flavonoid (770-970 mg QE/100 g), phenol (944.79-1047.53 mg GAE/100 g), terpenoid (239.78 -320.89 mg LE/100 g) and alkaloid (119.40-266.57 mg CE/100 g) contents reached the highest levels in these bioactive African honeys, which significantly and positively correlated with their bio-functional properties. The functional and phytochemical composition of these bioactive African honeys were similar to or higher than those of the Manuka 5+ honey. Furthermore, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis of African honeys revealed 10 most prominent volatile organic compounds that contribute to their geographical distinction: triacontane, heptacosane, (Z)-9-tricosene, tetracosane, 6-propyl-2,3-dihydropyran-2,4-dione, octacosane, 1,2,4-trimethylcyclohexane, 1,3-bis(1,1-dimethylethyl) benzene, 2-methylheptane and phytol. Overall, our findings suggest that some of the tested African honeys are natural sources of antimicrobial and antioxidant therapies that can be exploited upon further research and commercialized as high value honey.

GC-MS analysis, pharmaceutical and industrial significance of phytochemicals present in Annona muricata from Eziobodo, Imo State, Nigeria

Background: The conduct of screenings for therapeutic alternatives derived from medicinal plants has emerged as a useful tool for drug discovery and valuable information for further phytotherapeutic studies. Objective: To carry out chemical characterization of ethanol leaf extract of Annona muricata using gas chromatography mass spectroscopy (GC-MS). Materials and method: Apparently healthy leaf samples were taxonomically identified, air-dried and subjected to maceration to obtain ethanol extract stock. GC-MS analysis was utilized to investigate phytochemical composition. Results: The GC-MS analysis spectra was characterized by a total of twenty-six constituents at different retention times which were all identified. Dominant components present included n-Hexadecanoic acid, Oleic Acid and γ-Sitosterol with peak areas 32.60%, 24.35% and 9.10% respectively. Additional constituents were Dodecanoic acid (peak area 4.31%), 13 Octadecenal, (Z) (peak area 2.83%), Bis (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (peak area 2.31%), Tetradecanoic acid (peak area 2.34%), Trapidil (peak area 2.10%) while others occupied less than 2% peak area. Conclusion: This study suggests that the ethanol leaf extract of A. muricata could possess vital compounds of pharmaceutical and industrial relevance.

Bioactive Profiling, Antibacterial Efficacy and Computational Modelling of Myrtus Communis Essential Oil (Morocco).

In the context of investigations into molecules of natural origin with biological activities. This study focuses on the development of Myrtus communis L., a medicinal plant found in the mountains of Morocco. The first, an analysis carried out on leaves using the inductively coupled plasma spectrometry technique, showed the almost total absence of heavy metals. Furthermore, we aim to identify the chemical composition of its essential oils by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS) analysis and assess its antibacterial efficacy in vitro and in silico. The average yield of essential oils was 0.9 %±0.06, and GC/MS analysis identified 35 constituents, with myrcene (27,38 %), limonene (16,51 %), α-pinene (7,32 %) being the major compounds. Remarkably, the essential oils displayed considerable antibacterial activity against various tested bacteria, including Escherichia coli (0.7 μL/mL), Escherichia pseudocoloides (2.8 μl/ml), Escherichia vekanda (2.8 μl/ml). Molecular docking has contributed to our understanding of the mechanism of antibacterial action of the main compounds in this essential oil.