bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potential for autonomous detection of lambing using global navigation satellite system technology
Authors: Fogarty Eloise S. , Swain David L. , Cronin Greg M. , Moraes Luis E. , Bailey Derek W. , Trotter Mark G.
Published: February 2020

Context
On-animal sensing systems are being promoted as a solution to the increased demand for monitoring livestock for health and welfare. One key sensor platform, global navigation satellite system (GNSS) positioning, provides information on the location and movement of sheep. This information could be used to detect partition in sheep, a key period of time when both ewes and lambs are at risk. The development of algorithms based on key behavioural features could provide alerts to sheep managers to enable intervention when problems arise.

Aims
To investigate the use of GNSS monitoring as a method for detecting behavioural changes in sheep in the period around parturition.

Methods
GNSS collars were attached to 40 late gestation ewes grazing a 3.09 ha paddock in New Zealand. Several metrics were derived: (i) mean daily speed, (ii) maximum daily speed, (iii) minimum daily speed, (iv) mean daily distance to peers, and (v) spatial paddock utilisation by 95% minimum convex polygon. Speed metrics and distance to peers were also evaluated at an hourly scale for the 12 h before and 12 h after lambing.

Key results
Minimum daily speed peaked on the day of parturition (P < 0.001), suggesting animals may have been expressing more agitation and did not settle. Isolation was also evident during this time, with postpartum ewes located further from their peers than pre-partum ewes (P < 0.001). Day of lambing was also evident by reduced spatial paddock utilisation (P < 0.001).

Conclusions
This study demonstrates that GNSS technology can be used to detect parturition-related behaviours in sheep at a day scale; however, detection at the hour scale using GNSS is not possible.

Implications
This research highlights the opportunity to develop predictive models that autonomously detect behavioural changes in ewes at parturition using GNSS. This could then be extended to identify ewes experiencing prolonged parturition, for example dystocic birth enabling intervention which would improve both production and welfare outcomes for the sheep industry.
Use of Bacillus subtilis PB6 enriched with choline to improve growth performance, immune status, histological parameters and intestinal microbiota of broiler chickens
Authors: Abramowicz Katarzyna , Krauze Magdalena , Ognik Katarzyna
Published: February 2020

Context Probiotics used in poultry nutrition may promote the propagation of beneficial bacteria and limit the growth of pathogens, improving the body’s resistance to disease. Aims The aim of the study was to establish the dose and timing of administration of a probiotic preparation containing live cultures of Bacillus subtilis PB6 and choline that would have the most beneficial effect on histological parameters and microbiological status of the intestine, immune status, and growth performance of broiler chickens. Methods In total, 980 one-day-old Ross 308 male chickens, divided into seven groups of 140 (each group with seven replications of 20 individuals), were used in the experiment. The birds were reared until Day 42 of life. In the control group, birds received water without addition of the probiotic preparation. In three continuous treatments, birds received the probiotic preparation in their water at doses of 0.05, 0.1 or 0.25 g/L from Day 1 to Day 42 of rearing. In three periodic treatments, birds received the same doses of the probiotic preparation, but only during Days 1–7, 15–21 and 29–35 of rearing. Key results Addition of the probiotic preparation to the drinking water of broiler chickens increased the total number of aerobic bacteria as well as the length of the intestinal villi and the depth of the crypts. It also reduced the number of fungi and coliform bacteria. In addition, increases were noted in the lysozyme content, the phagocytic index, and the level of immunoglobulin A. Conclusions The probiotic preparation containing B. subtilis and choline administered continuously at a dose of 0.25 g/L in water throughout the rearing period had the most beneficial effect on the composition of the microbiome, and improved the mucous membrane structure of the intestine (increasing villus length and intestinal crypt depth), immunity, and growth performance of the broiler chickens. Implications The use of probiotics in poultry nutrition improves the health of animals and makes breeding more profitable. Administration of this probiotic improves disease resistance, jejunal histological parameters, and intestinal microflora of broiler chickens.
Cover crops as alternative forages for ruminants: nutritive characteristics, in vitro digestibility, methane and ammonia production
Authors: Maxin Gaëlle , Graulet Benoît , Le Morvan Aline , Picard Fabienne , Portelli Josiane , Andueza Donato
Published: February 2020

Context
The use of cover crops provides agronomic and environmental benefits in crop–livestock systems. They can also constitute alternative forage resources for ruminants, particularly when climatic conditions limit grass supply. However, information on the nutritive value of these crops remains scarce.

Aims
The objective of the present study was to assess the fresh forage potential of several plant species (sainfoin, buckwheat, phacelia, berseem clover, crimson clover and vetch) commonly used as cover crops and harvested at two phenological stages, namely, vegetative stage (VS) and flowering stage (FS).

Methods
Chemical composition and fermentation parameters after in vitro ruminal incubation of the plant species were measured and compared with those of lucerne.

Key results
Chemical composition and in vitro organic-matter digestibility varied both with species (P < 0.001) and stage (P < 0.001). Crude protein concentration (g/kg dry matter) varied at VS from 212 (sainfoin) to 151 (phacelia), and at FS from 187 (vetch) to 88 (phacelia). The in vitro organic-matter digestibility at VS varied from 0.91 (buckwheat) to 0.82 (lucerne), and at FS from 0.81 (vetch) to 0.74 (lucerne). Buckwheat and sainfoin had the greatest concentrations of condensed tannins and total phenolic compounds. The incubation of phacelia, sainfoin and buckwheat resulted in a lower production of volatile fatty acids than did incubation with the other plant species. Methane production was lower at both stages for phacelia (–26%), buckwheat (–12%), sainfoin (–14%) and berseem clover (–13%) than it was for lucerne. Ammonia production expressed as total N proportion was significantly lower for sainfoin and buckwheat than for the other plant species. The reductions in methane and ammonia appeared to be linked to certain phenolic compounds for buckwheat and to condensed tannins for sainfoin.

Conclusions
The present study showed that these cover crop species hold nutritive characteristics as good as lucerne, indicating that they could be suitable for ruminant nutrition. Moreover, buckwheat and sainfoin have potential beneficial effects on methane and ammonia production.

Implications
These results constitute a first step towards a recommendation to farmers to use cover crops as forage.
Hydrolysis of ketene catalysed by nitric acid and water in the atmosphere
Authors: Xu Fang , Tan Xing-Feng , Dong Ze-Gang , Ren Da-Sen , Long Bo
Published: February 2020

Environmental contextThe detailed mechanism of hydrolysis of gas-phase ketene to form acetic acid is critical for understanding the formation of certain atmospheric contaminants. This study explores the effect of nitric acid and water on the hydrolysis of ketene in the atmosphere. The calculated results show that nitric acid is an effective catalyst in the hydrolysis of ketene to form acetic acid in atmospheric water-restricted environments.
AbstractThe gas-phase hydrolysis of ketene and the unimolecular reaction of 1,1-enediol catalysed by nitric acid and water have been investigated using quantum chemical methods and conventional transition state theory with Eckart tunnelling. The theoretical calculation results show that nitric acid exerts a strong catalytic effect on the hydrolysis of ketene in the gas-phase. The calculated energy barrier for the direct reaction mechanistic pathway is reduced from 42.10kcal mol−1 in the reaction of ketene with water to 3.40kcal mol−1 in the reaction of ketene with water catalysed by HNO3. The catalytic ability of nitric acid is further proven in the hydrogen shift reaction of 1,1-enediol because the energy barrier of the unimolecular reaction of 1,1-enediol is decreased from 44.92kcal mol−1 to −4.51kcal mol−1. In addition, the calculated results indicate that there is competition between the direct and indirect mechanistic pathways with the increase of additional water molecules in the reaction of ketene with water catalysed by HNO3 and (H2O)n (n=1, 2). The calculated kinetics results show that the CH2=C=O+H2O+HNO3 reaction is significant in the gas phase of the atmosphere and the other reactions are negligible owing to the slow reaction rates. However, compared with the CH2=C=O+OH reaction, the CH2=C=O+H2O+HNO3 reaction is very slow and cannot compete with the CH2=C=O+OH reaction. CH2=C=O+OH is the main elimination pathway of ketene in the gas phase of the atmosphere. Our findings reveal that acetic acid may be formed through the hydrolysis of ketene in atmospheric water-restricted environments of the surfaces of aqueous, aerosol and cloud droplets.
Glasshouse study of a sprayable, degradable polymer to reduce water use in cotton establishment
Authors: Johnston Priscilla , Braunack Michael , Casey Philip S. , Bristow Keith L. , Adhikari Raju
Published: February 2020

This glasshouse pot experiment demonstrated that a new sprayable and degradable polymer reduced soil water evaporation and promoted cotton seedling emergence and establishment. The polymer was tested on two contrasting soils (sandy loam and clay), representative of those used to grow cotton in Australia. Changes in soil water content in non-treated and polymer-treated pots were monitored over 80 days, after surface or subsurface watering. Plant biomass, soil water content and soil chemical properties were determined at harvest. The polymer reduced soil water evaporation by up to 35% in sandy loam and up to 20% in clay, did not compromise seedling emergence and improved plant growth per unit water applied by up to 26.2%. The polymer underwent extensive degradation after 80 days to produce low molecular-weight polymers or oligomers and water-extractable silicon species that may have implications for plant nutrition.
Reframing Iran’s discourse of war in the English translation of Iranian war literature
Authors: Afzali Katayoon
Published: February 2020

Translation as interlingual and intercultural communication has always been subject to ideological manipulation.
This is due to the fact that some Translation Studies scholars believe that translators are considered as responsible for the
reception and survival of literary works among target language readers. The strategies the translators apply throughout the
translation process are governed by those who wield power including political and social institutions like the government, the law
and publishers. In view of this phenomenon, the current study explores the paratextual strategies applied by Paul Sprachman, an
American translator, when he translated Da (2014) from Farsi into English. Using narrative theory, this study
analyses how the English translation appears to reiterate notions of Iran and Shia identity as bellicose and anti- liberal by
situating Iran’s war literature as dramatic and fictional, rather than as a testimonial to one Iranian woman’s representations of
her lived experience. The findings indicate that the textual and paratextual manipulations were in line with the ideology of the
receptive environment of the United States with relevance to the discourse of the war in Iran.
Looking into visual motion expressions in Dutch, English, and
French
Authors: Cappelle Bert
Published: February 2020

This study investigates visual motion expressions
in Dutch, English, and French. As a translation corpus, I use Roald
Dahl’s children’s book The Witches, which abounds
in staring and peeping events, and its Dutch and French
translations. Based on the hypothesis that languages’ constructional
repertoires for physical motion are exploited for visual motion, one
can predict, correctly, that Dutch uses its syntactically wide
variety of path complement types in the domain of visual motion. It
is tempting to assume that French, lacking looking verbs expressing
path, would lose its generally verb-framed nature in visual motion
descriptions. However, French appears to preserve some of its
typological identity, by using causative path verbs such as
lever ‘raise’ combined with an object meaning
‘one’s eyes/gaze’. In keeping with its verb-framed nature, French
uses fewer visual path complements than Dutch and English, but it
does have, and frequently uses, manner-of-vision expressions.
Aspectual contrasts in the Englishpresent tense revisited
Authors: Dudley Amber , Slabakova Roumyana
Published: February 2020

This study investigates the acquisition of aspectual contrasts in the English present tense by French and Chinese
learners of English at upper-intermediate to advanced proficiency levels. An oral production task and an interpretation task show
that the expression of the aspectual present tense does not always have to constitute an insurmountable barrier to learners of
English, at least for the upper-intermediate and advanced proficiency levels tested in this study. This successful acquisition is in spite of
the differences in L1/L2 feature expressions and the unexpected variability in the input. Our research highlights that teachers
must be aware of the one-sided variability of the native speaker usage (i.e. that the present simple form can express multiple
meanings, while the present progressive is associated with one meaning only) if they want to improve performance and comprehension
at lower proficiency levels.
Information-structural properties of is that
clauses
Authors: Remberger Eva-Maria
Published: February 2020

This article is concerned with what are known as
inferential constructions, i.e. clauses where the expressions
it’s (just) that or it’s not
that have gained the function of discourse markers.
Similar expressions also exist in Romance. The corresponding
construction in Spanish is introduced by es que and
the content of the following clause is always focal, in the sense
that it contains information that relates to a variable inferable
from the context (exhaustive information focus). The particular
information-structural properties presented by both the es
que-construction and its negative and interrogative
counterparts can only be explained by an analysis of their
underlying development. In this respect, these constructions
constitute a good illustration of the interplay of discourse and
grammaticalization, especially the interface between syntax and
pragmatics, where information-structural properties are located.
Spiritual leadership: Current status and Agenda for future research and practice
Authors: Oh Jihye , Wang Jia
Published: February 2020

Over the past decade, spiritual leadership has emerged as a new paradigm of and approach to leadership. To provide a thorough understanding of the current status of research on this new phenomenon and stimulate more scholarly interest, we conducted a systematic review of existing spiritual
leadership literature. By analyzing 59 empirical studies published in peer-reviewed journals, we unraveled how the concept of spiritual leadership was defined, developed, utilized and validated by researchers across disciplines. This article also provides some directions for future research
by highlighting knowledge gaps and critical issues identified in previous studies, such as definitions, methodologies, construct measurements, research contexts, and nomological relationships of spiritual leadership. For scholars who are interested in pursuing spiritual leadership research,
this review can serve as a useful reference guide.
Comparison of force standard machines in the range of 100 kN and 1000 kN
Authors: Aydemir B , Vatan C , Dizdar H , Binown A A , Mitsas C , Justice B , Zarouni M A , Shehhi K A
Published: February 2020

This report presents the results of a supplementary comparison of force standard machines organized by GULFMET and piloted by TÜBİTAK UME. This is the first such comparison organized in the Gulf region and was carried out in accordance with the procedures detailed in CIPM MRA-D-05 with the purpose of providing evidence for the metrological equivalence of participants in force realization in the ranges of 100 kN and 1000 kN. It can be surmised from the result evaluation that the participants' performance is satisfactory and the uncertainty values claimed by them have been validated.

Main text

To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database kcdb.bipm.org/.

The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCM, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).
Bilateral comparison on force standard machines between TüBİTAK-UME and SASO-NMCC
Authors: Aydemir B , Vatan C , Dizdar H , Binown A A
Published: February 2020

This report presents the results of a bilateral supplementary comparison of force standard machines between SASO-NMCC and TÜBİTAK-UME which was the pilot laboratory. The purpose of the comparison was the demonstration of metrological equivalence in force realization in the ranges of 1 kN, 10 kN and 100 kN. The result evaluation shows that the participant's performance is satisfactory and the uncertainty values claimed by it have been validated.

Main text

To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database kcdb.bipm.org/.

The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCM, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).
Supplementary comparison COOMET.M.P-S4 of gas absolute pressure standards up to 7 MPa, and gauge up to 2 MPa
Authors: Tskitishvili Nino , Páviš Richard , Chytil Miroslav , Pražák Dominik , Šmardová Blanka
Published: February 2020

This report describes the results of a successful two-phase interlaboratory comparison between Georgian National Agency for Standards and Metrology (GeoSTM), Czech Metrology Institute (CMI) and Slovak Metrology Institute (SMU) denoted as COOMET.M.P-S4. The ranges of the absolute pressure from 0 MPa to 7 MPa and gauge pressure from 0 MPa to 2 MPa were chosen as the most suitable for a mutual comparison. A digital pressure gauge, DHI RPM4 served as a transfer standard in both phases. Firstly, bilateral interlaboratory comparison (BILC) between two participants, CMI (pilot and reference laboratory) and GeoSTM, started in March 2017 and finished in April 2017. Secondly, interlaboratory comparison (ILC) between three participants, CMI (pilot and reference laboratory), SMU (co-reference laboratory) and GeoSTM, started in October 2018 and finished in February 2019. SMU took part only in the absolute pressure comparison.

Main text

To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database kcdb.bipm.org/.

The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCM, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).
A community nitrogen footprint analysis of Baltimore City, Maryland
Authors: Dukes Elizabeth S M , Galloway James N , Band Lawrence E , Cattaneo Lia R , Groffman Peter M , Leach Allison M , Castner Elizabeth A
Published: February 2020

The nitrogen footprint tool (NFT) provides a novel way for communities to understand the environmental impacts of their collective activities and consumption. Reactive nitrogen (Nr; all N species except N2) is created by the Haber–Bosch process for food production and as a by-product of fossil fuel combustion and two natural processes, biological nitrogen fixation and lightning. While it is a vital input for food production, too much Nr has a negative effect on the environment. Calculating the amount of Nr released to the environment as a result of an entity’s resource consumption is the first step in reducing those Nr losses. The nitrogen (N) footprint method has previously taken this approach at the personal and institution scale. In this study, the approach is extended, for the first time, to the spatial patterns of the community nitrogen footprint within a large city, through the integration of diverse geographic information to calculate the N footprint distribution within the City of Baltimore, Maryland, USA. The total N footprint of Baltimore City was ∼19 000 MT N or 30 kg N per capita in 2016, dominated by the food production sector (73%), followed by the energy and transportation sectors (15% combined). There was geographic variability among census block groups’ per capita N footprint within Baltimore City; driven primarily by economic and development factors. Several management scenarios were assessed to better understand what actions may reduce the Baltimore N footprint at the city and community scale over time. The study explored the effect and efficacy of reducing meat consumption based on differences in city consumption patterns, increasing the use of renewable energy sources, and reducing electricity consumption on the city’s total N footprint. The model for the Baltimore City N footprint calculation can be applied to other communities in the United States at the spatial grain of the census block group or any country with this level of data to provide an indicator of nitrogen sustainability.
Improving durability of glass fiber reinforced polymer composites by incorporation of ZnO/OMMT nanoparticles subjected to UV radiation and hygrothermal aging
Authors: Xu Yu , Fang Yuan , Wang Kai , Liu Weiqing , Fang Hai
Published: February 2020

Glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) composites have high sensitivity to UV radiation, temperature, and moisture, and these factors lead to the decrease of mechanical properties. This study attempts to modify unsaturated polyester (UP) and vinylester (VE) resins with nano zinc oxide (ZnO) and organo-montmorillonite (OMMT), in order to improve UV radiation resistance and hygrothermal resistance. The nano ZnO/OMMT modified UP and VE based GFRP composites were subjected to UV radiation and hygrothermal aging at 30 °C, 50 °C and 60 °C (95% RH) for 90 days. Mass loss, moisture uptake, color change, flexural properties and short-beam-shear test were investigated. In comparison to unmodified GFRP specimens, ZnO/OMMT modifying decreased the mass loss, the color change, saturation moisture uptake, and the coefficient of diffusion. After exposure in UV radiation for 90 days, the flexural strength and interlaminar shear strength of nano modified GFRP composites increased by 23.5% and 27.8% compared with those of the unmodified GFRP composites. Nano ZnO/OMMT modifying also increased the flexural strength and interlaminar shear strength by 26.5% and 27.2% in hygrothermal condition at 60 °C. Furthermore, based on the change of mechanical properties and Arrhenius rate model, a prediction model was proposed to predict the life of nano modified FRP composites.
Rational and design of the ROTAS study: a randomized study for the optimal treatment of symptomatic patients with low-gradient severe aortic valve stenosis and preserved left ventricular ejection fraction
Authors: Galli Elena , Le Ven Florent , Coisne Augustin , Sportouch Catherine , Le Tourneau Thierry , Bernard Anne , Bière Loic , Habib Gilbert , Lancellotti Patrizio , Lederlin Mathieu , Tribouilloy Christophe , Oger Emmanuel , Donal Erwan
Published: February 2020

Aims

Fifteen to thirty percentage of patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS) have preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and a discordant AS pattern at Doppler echocardiography, which is characterized by a small (<1 cm2) aortic area and low mean aortic gradient (<40 mmHg). The ‘Randomized study for the Optimal Treatment of symptomatic patients with low-gradient severe Aortic Stenosis and preserved left ventricular ejection fraction’ (ROTAS trial) aims at demonstrating the superiority of aortic valve replacement vs. a ‘watchful waiting strategy’ in symptomatic patients with low-gradient (LS), severe AS, and preserved LVEF, stratified according to indexed stroke volume, in terms of all-cause mortality or cardiovascular-related hospitalization during follow-up (FU).

Methods and results

The ROTAS trial will be a multicentre randomized non-blinded study involving 16 reference centres. AS severity will be confirmed by a multimodality approach (rest and stress echocardiography, calcium scoring, and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging for optimally characterize the population), which could provide important inputs to improve the pathophysiological understanding of this complex disease. Well-characterized patients will be randomized according to the management strategy. The primary endpoint will be the occurrence of all-cause mortality or cardiac related-hospitalizations during 2-year FU. One hundred and eighty subjects per group will be included.

Conclusion

The management of patients with LS severe AS and preserved LVEF is largely debated. ROTAS trial will allow a comprehensive evaluation of this particular pattern of AS and will establish which is the most appropriate management of these patients.
Policymakers’ perspectives on designing school-based health initiatives for Victorian adolescents
Authors: Meiklejohn Sarah , Choi Tammie , Peeters Anna , Ryan Lisa , Palermo Claire
Published: February 2020

Initiatives based on the Health Promoting Schools (HPS) framework have previously been successful in improving health and well-being yet there is little evidence of how these findings translate into policy. This study therefore aimed to analyse the political considerations that underpinned policymakers’ decisions for the design and implementation of a programme based on HPS in middle and high schools in Victoria, Australia. Interpretive policy analysis was undertaken using interviews with a purposive sample of government and non-government policy actors. Interviews explored factors influencing programme design and implementation and were analysed using thematic analysis. Ten in-depth interviews, including 11 participants, were conducted. The analysis revealed four themes. The Achievement Program was designed through (i) the establishment of strategic collaborations and good governance, involving people that made valuable and diverse contributions to the design process while acknowledging their (ii) positions of power, (iii) ensuring careful attention was paid to evidence-informed programme design and (iv) incorporation of real-time feedback from other settings. Policymakers believe this approach has the potential to improve policy adoption. There is a need to explore if this approach to policy development influences adherence and improves health outcomes.
They Are Selling Themselves Out to the Enemy! The Content and Effects of Populist Conspiracy Theories
Authors: Hameleers Michael
Published: February 2020

Despite the alleged discursive affinity between populist rhetoric and conspiracy theories, we know too little about how populist conspiracies are communicated by politicians, and how these messages activate individual-level support for populist ideas. In this setting, this article reports on a qualitative content analysis of leading (radical) right-wing populist politicians’ self-communication (Trump and Wilders) and an experiment in which the central content features of populist conspiracies are manipulated. The main findings indicate that populist conspiracy theories activate populist attitudes more than mere exposure to populist ideas. Together, this article shows how conspiracies are framed in populist actors’ communication, and how these populist conspiracy frames can fuel support for populist ideology in society.
BCS Report it Leaders 2020: Change Transformation Resources
Authors: Cooper Martin
Published: February 2020

This year's IT Leaders Report lifts the lid on the pressures, decisions and future possibilities that are occupying technology leaders’ minds. Martin Cooper MBCS RIT Tech looks at some of the report's defining stories.
BCS AI Award for Artists
Authors: Lambert Nick
Published: February 2020

The eighth annual Lumen Prize, celebrating the very best in international digital art, took place at the Barbican Centre for Performing Arts in London on 24 October. Presenting the BCS AI Award to winners, Dave Murray-Rust and Rocio von Jungenfeld — for Lichtsuchende — was Computer Arts Society Chair, Dr Nick Lambert.
Cyber Mission Assurance for Cyber Security
Authors: Mackay Matthew
Published: February 2020

Matthew Mackay, Cyber Risk Analyst at Whiteflare Consulting, explains why organisations should follow a cyber mission assurance approach (CMA) for cyber security.
Simple Circuit Statically Determinate Structures
Authors: Gooch Brian
Published: February 2020

So… that software you are currently using: what do you know about it? Writes Brian Gooch, an Independent Database Engineer, specialising in designing and creating structured computer software systems.
Repositioning BCS Degree Accreditation
Authors: Crick Tom , Davenport James H , Hanna Paul , Irons Alastair , Pearce Sally , Prickett Tom
Published: February 2020

Professional body accreditation must better communicate its value to higher education institutions, industry and society as a whole. Tom Crick, James H. Davenport, Paul Hanna, Alastair Irons, Sally Pearce and Tom Prickett explore the value of - and future enhancements to - BCS accreditation.
Determination of Iron in Alcoholic Beverages
Authors: Meredith M K , Baldwin Sidney , Andreasen A A
Published: February 2020

Results are presented for a collaborative study on the determination of ppm iron in alcoholic beverages, except beer, by the following methods: atomic absorption spectrophotometry, direct colorimetry using 2,4,6-tripyridyl-s-triazine (TPTZ) for alcoholic beverages other than brandy, and wet oxidation using sodium hypochlorite and hydrogen peroxide followed by color development with TPTZ for brandy only. When available, atomic absorption is the method of choice because of its speed and accuracy. The colorimetric method eliminates ashing, is relatively rapid, and does not require special equipment or highly trained personnel; however, it does not give accurate results for brandy. The wet oxidation method is satisfactory for brandy but requires more time, proper ventilation, and trained personnel. Results by these methods are accurate for routine determinations and it is recommended that the first two methods be adopted as official first action for the alcoholic products specified. Study on the wet oxidation method for products containing chelating agents and/or “complexed iron” should be continued.
Channel Layer Chromatography, with a Rapid Spotting Technique, for One-Stage Cleanup in Pesticide Residue Analysis
Authors: Hetherington R M , Parouchais C
Published: February 2020

Channel layer chromatography was investigated as a one-stage cleanup in pesticide residue analysis. Modifications were made to reduce analytical time, to increase visibility of solvent fronts, to hasten extraction from alumina G layer, and to improve recoveries. Good recoveries, in general, were obtained from spiked samples of milk, eggs, and dry poultry feeds and grains
Collaborative Study of the Mills Method for Multiple Chlorinated Pesticide Residues in Butterfat
Authors: Carr Richard L
Published: February 2020

Ten collaborators from different laboratories studied the Mills method for chlorinated pesticide residues in which electron capture GLC is used for quantitative measurement. Butterfat was the sample product; residues of the pesticides studied were present at two levels. Average recoveries for both levels were: lindane, 94.5 ± 22.5%; o,p’-DDT, 106.5 ± 13.5%; p,p’- DDT, 98.5 ± 8.5%; methoxychlor, 101.5 ± 13%; technical BHC, 87 ± 24%; p,p’-DDE, 98.5 ± 12.5%; and p,p’-TDE, 97.5 ± 12.5%. In most instances, residues were confirmed by TLC.
GLC Determination of Organic Acids in Fruits as Their Trimethylsilyl Derivatives
Authors: Fernandez-Flores E , Kline David A , Johnson Arthur R
Published: February 2020

Polybasic organic acids in fruits are separated by precipitation as lead salts. Trimethylsilyl derivatives formed directly from these lead salts are separated and identified by gasliquid chromatographic procedures. Twentyseven types and varieties of fruits were analyzed and reported.
Stability of Color Additives: FD&C Red No. 2 in Baked Goods
Authors: Singh Manjeet
Published: February 2020

Data are presented which show that FD&C Red No. 2 decomposes when baked in cookies; one of the decomposition products is naphthionic acid. The data indicate that the color is reduced at the azo linkage, yielding naphthionic acid and l-amino-2-naphthol-3,6-disulfonic acid (amino R-salt). However, neither l-amino-2-naphthol-3,6-disulfonic acid nor the corresponding naphthoquinone could be isolated from baked goods, possibly because they react with sucrose or dextrose. The amount of decomposition of FD&C, Red No. 2 can be calculated from the naphthionic acid content as determined fluorometrically.
TLC and Spectrophotometric Determination of l[4-(2,5-Dimethoxyphenylazo)-2,5-dimethoxyphenylazo]-2-naphthol and 1,1’-(2,2’,5,5-Tetramethoxy-4,4’-biphenylenebisazo)- di-2-naphthol in Citrus Red No. 2
Authors: Stein Charles
Published: February 2020

A thin layer chromatographic procedure is presented in which l[4-(2,5-dimethoxyphenylazo)-2,5-dimethoxyphenyIazo]-2-naphthol (dimethoxy color) and l,l’-(2,2’,5,5’-tetramethoxy - 4,4’ - biphenylenebisazo) - di - 2 - naphthol (benzidine color) are separated from Citrus Red No. 2. The compounds are dissolved from the adsorbent and determined spectrophotometrically. Recoveries from samples of known composition ranged from 91 to 104% for the benzidine color and from 89 to 100% for the dimethoxy color. The benzidine colorjcontent of commercial samples ranged from 0.65 to 1.22%; the dimethoxy color content ranged from 0 to 0.22%. The presence of many other subsidiary colors, generally in trace amounts, was noted in all commercial samples.
Adaptation of the AOAC Fluorine Method for Determining Fluoride in Fish Protein Concentrate
Authors: Klemm R. Bruce , Klemm Mary E. Ambrose
Published: February 2020

The AOAC official method, 24.029–24.035, for the determination of fluorine in foods was modified slightly to o btain quantitative recoveries of fluorine from samples of fish protein concentrate (FPC). The most important alterations include the use of steam distillation, the addition of finely ground silica sand in the distillation, a decrease in the distillation temperature, and the utilization of direct titration. Recoveries of fluoride added to FPC before ashing, using this modified method, averaged 96.0 ± 3.0%. Our results are in agreement with those of several other analysts who used a variety of methods.
Rapid and Convenient Salt Measurement in Meat, Fish, and Cheese
Authors: Vander Werf Loren J , Free Alfred H
Published: February 2020

The QUANTAB Chloride Titrator is a convenient tool for monitoring salt concentration in meat, fish, and cheese; it provides meaningful information on the salt content of food products for easier quality control during processing. Data are given showing typical results for various types of meat, fish, and cheese; these results compare favorably with those from the official AOAC Volhard methods.
Microbiological Assay of Monensin in Chicken Rations
Authors: Kline R M , Stricker R E , Coffman J D , Bikin H , Rathmacher R P
Published: February 2020

A microbiological assay method is described for the coccidiostat monensin in poultry feeds and prerhixes. Samples are extracted with methanol-water (9 + 1), and interfering substances are removed on an alumina column. Microbiological activity in the effluent is measured with Bacillus subtilis (ATCC 6633). Statistical analysis of data from several different rations prepared as meals and pellets indicate a mean recovery and standard deviation of 94.8 ± 9.7 g monensin/ton from a theoretical potency of 110 g monensin/ton. A mean recovery of 98 ± 7.6 µg/g was obtained from samples prepared by fortifying basal rations with t monensin at 110 µg/g Just before extraction.
Microbiological Assay of Neomycin in Feed: Collaborative Study
Authors: Neff A W , Miller C C , Barbiers A R
Published: February 2020

Eighteen laboratories collaboratively studied a method for the assay of neomycin, involving six levels of fortification and four diverse types of feed. The average recovery was 95.5%, which included a feed high in soybean meal (65%) that resulted in a definite negative bias in recovery. After eliminating the results from this feed the average recovery became 100.3% with an estimated standard deviation of 15.2% for a random sample. It is recommended that the method be adopted as official first action.
Note on Apparatus to Prevent Floating of Polypropylene Tubes in a Water Bath
Authors: Mulford F R , Martens D C
Published: February 2020

A brass frame designed to prevent floating of polypropylene centrifuge tubes in a hot water bath is described. Seventy-seven tubes may be held in the frame with springs made from phosphorus bronze-tempered spring wire. The springs prevent movement of polypropylene centrifuge tubes when the water level is as high as 11.4 cm.
Rapid Esterification of Dicamba and Chlorophenoxy Acids with N,0-bis (Trimethylsilyl) Acetamide for Gas Chromatographic Analysis
Authors: Garbrecht Thomas P
Published: February 2020

A general method has been developed for the esterification and subsequent gas chromatographic analysis of dicamba and chlorophenoxy acids as trimethylsilyl esters. The acids are extracted from a formulation, dried, and then esterified with N,0-bis(trimethylsilyl) acetamide. Esterification was complete and quantitative within 15 min for dicamba, 2,4-D, 2,4,5-T, 2,4,5-TP, MCPA, MCPP, and 2,4-DB. These esters were chromatographed on a 6’ column of 5% DC-200 on 80–100 mesh Chromosorb W HP at 190°C. Results from repetitive analyses and multiple injections show precision comparable with most GLC methods of analysis. Because of the ease and speed of the method, twice as many analyses can be performed in our laboratory.
Carbon-14 Assay After Parr Peroxide Bomb Fusion
Authors: Ford Leonard A.
Published: February 2020

A method has been developed for converting organic 14C compounds to 14C carbon dioxide and subsequent quantitation by liquid scintillation counting. The sample is converted to sodium carbonate in a Parr bomb. Carbon dioxide is liberated from the fused salt, absorbed in an organic base, and incorporated in a liquid scintillation “cocktail” for radioassay. Some advantages over existing methods in current use are given.
Determination of 2-[(2-Hydroxy-l-Naphthyl)Azo]-6-NaphthaIenesulfonic Acid in D&C Red Nos. 10, 11, 12, and 13
Authors: Stein Charles
Published: February 2020

A thin layer chromatographic procedure is presented by which 2-[(2-hydroxy-l-naphthyl)azo]-6-naphthalenesulfonic acid (Bronner’s color) is separated from D&C Red Nos. 10, 11, 12, a n d 13. Bronner’s color is dissolved from the silica gel G adsorbent and determined spectrophotometrically. Recoveries of 0.25110.02% added color averaged 91%. The Bronner’s color content of commercial samples of colors analyzed by this procedure ranged from 0 t o 2.6%.
Determination of 5,7’-Disulfo-3,3’-dioxo-Δ2,2’-biindoline, Disodium Salt, and 5-Sulfo-3,3’-dioxo-Δ2,2’-biindoline, Sodium Salt, in FD&C Blue No. 2
Authors: Singh Manjeet
Published: February 2020

A partition chromatographic procedure is presented which separates 5,7’-disulfo-3,3’- dioxo-Δ2,2’-biindoline (disodium salt) and 5-sulfo-3,3’-dioxo-Δ2,2’-biindoline (sodium salt) from FD&C Blue No. 2. The separated colors are determined spectrophotometrically. Recoveries of the former, added at 5 to 15%, ranged from 86 t o 101%. Recoveries of the latter, added at 1 to 5%, ranged from 78 to 95%. Commercial samples of FD&C Blue No. 2 analyzed by this procedure contained 0.7–15.6% of the isomer and 0.5–2.4% of the monosulfonated subsidiary color.
Determination of Total Fluoride and/or Fluosilicic Acid Concentration by Specific Fluoride Ion Electrode Potentiometry
Authors: Jordan Donald E
Published: February 2020

A method is presented to determine total fluoride and/or fluosilicic acid concentrations directly, using the fluoride ion selective electrode. Samples can be analyzed at 20–30/hr with excellent precision; results are equivalent to those obtained with the AWWA standard t e s t procedure No. B 703–60. Hydrofluoric acid, if present in the fluosilicic acid samples, interferes in the calculation for H2SiF6 concentration but not for total fluoride present. Specifically, the fluoride ion is freed from fluosilicate a t pH 8.4–10.0; in addition, iron and aluminum hydrous oxides are formed at this pH. Then the solution is buffered to pH 5.7–5.9 at a fixed ionic strength with ammonium acetate buffer and the total fluoride is determined from a prepared calibration curve or computer program.
Collaborative Study of Methods for the Determination of Fat in Cacao Products
Authors: Harrill P G , Ibrahim W Y
Published: February 2020

A collaborative study was conducted comparing the AOAC methods (12.022 Method I and 12.023 Method II) for the determination of fat in cacao products with the OICC Soxhlet method and a rapid refractometric method. Six samples of cacao products (breakfast cocoa, vegetable fat coating, cacao nibs, milk chocolate, sweet chocolate, and chocolate liquor) were analyzed by 7 collaborators. Results indicate that the OICC method gives better precision and somewhat lower results than the AOAC method. It is recommended (1) that the OICC method as presented, using a final HC1 concentration of 4N in the digestion step, be adopted as official first action to replace 12.023 Method II, which will be deleted official final action by suspension of the rules; (2) that study be continued to accumulate data needed to correlate the results of the analysis of cacao products by the OICC method and 12.022 Method I; and (3) that 12.022 be qualified by a statement “(Not applicable to cacao nibs unless finely ground)”.
Note on the Determination of Mercu Combustion
Authors: White Merrie N , Lisk D J
Published: February 2020

Losses of mercury from biological samples subjected to ashing in open systems can be obviated by oxygen flask combustion. The sample must support combustion, however. A method is described for the determination of mercury in mineral soil which is mixed with cellulose acetate powder to allow combustion. Mercury is then determined spectrophotometrically as the dithizonate. The sensitivity of the method is about 0.1 ppm mercury. The recovery of mercury from soil is reported.
Atomic Absorption Spectrometric Determination of Copper and Nickel in Tea
Authors: Burke Keith E , Albright C H
Published: February 2020

Atomic absorption spectroscopy is one of several analytical tools which can be applied to the determination of less than 20 ppm quantities of copper and nickel in tea. A rapid and accurate atomic absorption method is described which is sensitive to these elements at the levels of interest. After the decomposition of organic matter by oxidation with nitric and perchloric acids, or by dry ashing, a solution is obtained which contains only a few major elements. An average matrix composition is determined and synthetic standards for copper and nickel which are free of potential interferences are prepared for a calibration curve. Tea leaves have been analyzed chemically and by X-ray and optical emission spectroscopy in order to evaluate the accuracy of the atomic absorption method. The average of 50 determinations gives a mean of 11 ppm nickel and 32 ppm copper with standard deviations of ±1.6 σ and 1.8 σ, respectively. The method should be applicable to most organic material.
TLC Separation and Spectrophotometric Determination of l-(2-Hydroxy-l-naphthylazo)-2-naphthalene Sulfonic Acid in D&C Red No. 12
Authors: Stein Charles
Published: February 2020

A t h i n layer chromatographic procedure is presented by which l-(2-hydroxy-l-naphthylazo)- 2-naphthalene sulfonic acid (ortho color) is separated from D&C Red No. 12. T h e ortho color is dissolved from the adsorbent and determined spectrophotometrically. Recoveries of 1.6–11.3% added color averaged 90%. The content of commercial samples of colors analyzed by this procedure ranged from 0 to 0.8%.
Extraction of Light Filth from Casein and Sodium Caseinate
Authors: Brickey Paris M
Published: February 2020

Collaborative results are presented on a new method for filth in casein and sodium caseinate. The method consists of dispersing the product in a Versene solution, wet sieving on a No. 230 sieve, and transferring filth directly from sieve onto filter paper. The collaborative study resulted in an average recovery of 98 and 96% for insect fragments and rodent hairs, respectively. The method is recommended for adoption as official first action.
Partition Chromatography and Determination of Noscapine in Cough Preparations
Authors: Elliston Stanley C , Coles Maureen L
Published: February 2020

The proposed method for combinations of noscapine with neutral and other basic drugs uses 2 columns: sulfamic acid and NaOH. Noscapine is eluted from the sulfamic acid column with chloroform, while other basic drugs are retained. Acidic substances and acetaminophen are trapped on the NaOH column. Recoveries of noscapine ranged from 98.4 to 100.3% on an authentic linctus and suspension. The method has been tested on 6 proprietaries and the low deviations between parallel determinations indicate a satisfactory degree of precision.
Collaborative Study of the Analysis of Acetaminophen in a Sirup and in Combination with Other Drugs in a Tablet
Authors: Hohmann John R
Published: February 2020

Five samples were included in this collaborative study: 2 sirups containing acetaminophen only at 2 levels, 1 commercial tablet containing acetaminophen combined with 4 other drug materials, and 2 synthetic mixtures similar to this tablet, containing acetaminophen at 2 levels. The precision of the analyses of all samples and the accuracy for the 2 sirups and 1 of the tablet mixtures were satisfactory. The recoveries obtained for the second tablet sample were low. In view of the precision for this sample and the accuracy for the others, it is concluded that this sample had been improperly prepared. It is recommended that the method be adopted as official first action.
Rapid Method for the Isolation of Pure Aflatoxins
Authors: Steyn M
Published: February 2020

A chromatographic method is described for the preparation of pure aflatoxins from crude aflatoxin-containing extracts. The stationary phase consists of aluminum oxide (basic, according to Brockman) containing 6.25% oxalic acid dihydrate. The main advantage of this method is that pure samples of individual aflatoxins may be obtained in less than 2 hr. An additional advantage is economy of materials.
Determination of α-Hydroxy Acids in Foods by TLC and Manometric Measurement
Authors: Trop M , Levinger I M
Published: February 2020

An analytical method for determination of α-hydroxy and α-keto acids is developed based on separation of the acids from other components by acidic alcoholic extraction and by adsorption on and elution from an anion exchange resin, followed by thin layer chromatography. Acids are identified by eerie ammonium nitrate reagent sprayed on the chromatogram. Quantitative determination is performed by manometric measurement of gas released in reaction with that reagent.