bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of gaseous ammonia on barley straws showing different rumen degradabilities
Authors: Goto Masakazu , Gordon Alex H , Chesson Andrew
Published: October 2006

Straw samples from five cultivars of spring barley (Hordeum vulgare L; Golden Promise, Golf, Klaxon, Heriot and Doublet), selected to show a range of rumen degradabilities, were examined to measure the effect of gaseous ammonia on aspects of their cell wall composition and degradability after treatment. Cellulose degradability of the untreated straws, as measured by the nylon‐bag method, ranged from 41.0% for Golden Promise to 57.1% for Doublet. The extent of improvement in degradability following ammonia treatment was 12.5% units for Golden Promise and only 2.5% units for Doublet, showing that the effect of ammonia was more pronounced for materials of lower inherent degradability (r= −0.774). Straw from three of the five cultivars was dissected into its botanical parts, and the dry matter content and digestibility of the fractions were determined. Leaf material formed a higher fraction of dry matter in Doublet (0.48), the most degradable cultivar, than in Golden Promise (0.30), the least degradable straw. Half of the observed difference in degradability between Doublet and Golden Promise could be attributed to differences in dry matter distribution between botanical fractions. For untreated straw, degradability was weakly, negatively correlated with the proportion of arabinose residues substituted with alkali‐labile linkages at position 0–5 (r = −0.690), and positively correlated with the moisture retention (water‐holding capacity) of straws (r = 0.838), water‐soluble dry matter content (r = 0.922) and water‐soluble phenolic content (r = 0.791). The proportion of pentose residues carrying alkali‐labile linkages was only slightly decreased followign ammonia treatment. In the case of the 0–5 position of arabinose residues the original values were reduced by 2.4–15.9%. Ammonia treatment had little effect on the capacity of the straw to retain moisture, and did not significantly increase the proportion of water‐soluble dry matter or phenolics. Cellulose degradability, or the improvement in degradability, of ammonia‐treated straw was not correlated with any of the physical and chemical characteristicds of staw considered above.
Acceptability of diets containing olive oil fried sardines (Sardina pilchardus) in the prevention of dietary hypercholesterolaemia in rats
Authors: Sánchez‐Muniz F J , Higón E , Cava F , Viejo J M
Published: October 2006

The acceptability of diets containing fried sardines (Sardinia pilchardus Walb) was studied for 4 weeks in growing Wistar rats. Group 1 was fed with a diet containing casein and olive oil as protein and fat sources respectively, and groups 2 and 3 received diets containing sardines fried in olive oil which had been used a known number of times. Group 2 was fed with a mixture of fried sardines from the first and second oil‐use occasions as the only source of protein and fat, while group 3 got a mixture of fried sardines from the eighth to tenth oil‐use fryings. All diets contained cholesterol plus bovine bile as a blood cholesterol‐raising agent. Food intake, body weight increase and dietary efficiency ratio (DER) were all similar in groups 1 and 2, showing that the olive oil fried sardine diet was well accepted. However, group 3 ate significantly less (P<0.01) and showed smaller (P<0.01) body weight increase and DER than groups 1 and 2. The hepatosomatic index of group 3 was higher (P < 0.05). The hyper‐cholesterolaemic effect of group 1 diet was markedly reduced (5‐ and 15‐fold after 2 weeks and 4 weeks respectively) in groups 2 and 3.
Comparison of extraction methods and assay procedures for the determination of the apparent tannin content of common beans
Authors: Carmona Andrés , Seidl Dinah S , Jaffé W G
Published: October 2006

The biological utilisation of legume seeds is limited by the presence of polyphenols, among other antinutritional factors. Tannins, compounds of the complex polyphenol family, interact with dietary proteins and digestive enzymes, decreasing the nutritional value of ingested foods. The quantification of polyphenols in grains and seeds is problematic due in part to the diversity of methods used and the presence of interfering factors.

In this study the most commonly used assay procedures were compared and validated. Black bean polyphenols, fractionated by adsorption chromatography into tannins and non‐tannins, were assayed with Prussian blue, Folin‐Denis, and corrected and uncorrected vanillin tests. The results obtained suggest that the Prussian blue assay is the most convenient for tannin determination. In spite of its low specificity it reacted preferentially with this polyphenol group and correlated well with the other procedures. Neither the corrected nor the uncorrected vanillin assay is recommended for use in beans due to interference by non‐tannin compounds present in raw extracts.
Starch properties of various potato (Solanum tuberosum L) Cultivars susceptible and resistant to low‐temperature sweetening
Authors: Barichello Valerie , Yada Rickey Y , Coffin Robert H
Published: October 2006

Properties of starch granules isolated from different varieties and selections of potato (which vary in their degree of chill sweetening) were examined. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) showed an increase in resistance to gelatinisation of isolated starch granules which correlated (r = 0.911) with higher chip scores following storage at 4°C and 12°C. Varying water level content during DSC studies resulted in significantly lower water content required to produce two endotherms for starch isolated from varieties resistant to chill sweetening. These data strongly suggest that starch granule composition might be a factor differentiating the low temperature sweetening sensitive from resistant cultivars, and may provide a screening method for predicting chip colour of potatoes out of storage.
Degradability of phenolic acid‐hemicellulose esters: A model system
Authors: Jung Hans‐Joachim G , Ralph John , Hatfield Ronald D
Published: October 2006

A synthetic model system containing p‐coumaric and ferulic acids esterified to hemicellulose was used to study polysaccharide degradability. Oatspelts xylan was fractionated into Alinear, Blinear and Branched fractions prior to synthetic esterification with phenolic acids at treatment concentrations of 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100 g phenolic acid per kg hemicellulose. Concentrations of phenolic acids esterified to the hemicellulose fractions were determined by alkaline hydrolysis. In‐vitro dry matter disappearance (IVDMD) and degradability of hemicellulose neutral sugars were measured after 48 h ruminal fermentations. Esterification efficiency of the phenolic acids to the hemicellulose fractions was low (0.3 to 13.9%) and greater for p‐coumaric than ferulic acid (4.7 vs 3.1%, respectively). Concentration of esterified phenolic acids was negatively correlated with IVDMD for the Alinear and Bbranched fractions. Ferulic acid appeared to be more inhibitory to IVDMD than p‐coumaric acid. Generally the degradability of the side chain sugars of the hemicellulose fractions was negatively correlated with esterified phenolic acid concentrations. Xylose degradation was only correlated with esterified ferulic acid level in the Alinear fraction. The in‐vitro ruminal fermentations resulted in the degradation of the majority of the phenolic acid esters. Analysis of the synthetic phenolic acid‐hemicellulose esters by 13C NMR and FTIR was unable to prove the presence of monomeric phenolic acid esters. The presence of phenolic acid polyesters was unlikely because of the solubility of the synthetic phenolic acid‐hemicellulose esters. The neutral sugar degradation data suggest that esterification of the phenolic acids was limited to sugars with primary hydroxyl groups. While this model system was useful for studying cell wall degradation, future studies must employ model systems in which the chemical constituents being tested accurately model those found in nature.
Composition and nutritive value of native and modified green fraction of leaf protein from lucerne (Medicago sativa)
Authors: Hanczakowski Piotr , Szymezyk Beata , Skraba Bogumila
Published: October 2006

The green fraction of leaf protein from lucerne (Medicago sativa L) was prepared by heating freshly extracted juice to 55°C. From the same part of the juice unfractionated leaf protein concentrate (LPC) was obtained by heating it to 80°C. The green fraction was divided into four parts and treated as follows: dried at 55°C (I), washed with water (II), washed with buffer (III) and extracted with ether (IV).

The LPCs obtained were analysed for gross composition and amino acid content as well as for phenolics and carotene. The true digestibility (TD) and biological value (BV) of LPC proteins were determined on growing rats using the Thomas‐Mitchell balance method. In addition the effects of DL‐methionine or L‐lysine supplementation of native green LPC were studied.

The native green protein fraction contained more fat, phenolics and carotene but less protein than unfractionated LPC. The ether extraction lowered fat and carotene content of concentrate, and washing with buffer eliminated most phenolics.

There were only small differences in the amino acid composition of proteins. The buffer‐washed concentrate contained more amino acids than any other treatment.

Both the true digestibility and biological value of unfractionated LPC were higher than those of each green concentrate. Ether extraction mainly improved TD (from 73 to 79) and washing with buffer improved BV (from 41 to 50) of green protein. The best result was obtained when the green fraction was supplemented with methionine (BV increased from 41 to 68).
Effects of cross‐pollination on dry matter accumulation, nutrient partitioning and grain yield of maize hybrids grown under different levels of N fertility
Authors: Tsai Cherng‐Liang , Huber Don M , Warren Herman L , Tsai Charles Y
Published: October 2006

This study was initiated to investigate the relationship between increased kernel sink capacity and fertiliser N use efficiency of maize (Zea mays L). Two hybrids differing in yield potential, Pioneer brand 3732 (P3732) and B73 × Mo17, were grown on field plots with four levels of N fertiliser. The kernel sink of P3732 was modified by cross‐pollinating P3732 with pollen from B73 × Mo17. Vegetation and kernal samples collected from the N treatments at mid‐silk and at 30, 45 and 60 days post‐pollination (DPP) were analysed for accumulation and partitioning of dry matter and N content. Grain yield was also determined. Modification of the P3732 endosperm genotype through cross‐pollination significantly increased kernel weight, kernel protein content and grain yield at each level of N treatment, indicating an improvement in fertiliser N use efficiency due to an increased sink demand. All three levels of N application produced similar effects on the accumulation and partitioning of dry matter and N in plant parts for both endosperm genotypes. Since the harvest index observed at 30, 45 and 60 DPP was similar between sib‐ and cross‐pollinated plants, the additional nutrients translocated into developing kernels of P3732 cross‐pollinated plants were mainly derived from increases in duration of dry matter production and N uptake by vegetative tissues rather than from improved partitioning efficiency.
Eating quality and growth of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) on feed with different admixtures of leaf nutrient concentrate
Authors: Johansson Lisbeth , Kiessling Anders , Carlsson Rolf
Published: October 2006

The effects, with regard to eating quality and to growth, of leaf nutrient concentrate (LNC) in fish feed for rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss (Richardson)) were investigated in two consecutive studies. In the first study the admixture of LNC was made on an isocaloric basis, primarily by replacing a quantity of carbohydrates from the control feed. The control diet and two diets with 25% and 45% LNC, respectively, were administered for 4, 8 and 12 weeks. In the second study the LNC partly replaced protein and lipid from fish meal in the control feed. A control diet and two diets with 12.5% and 25% LNC, respectively, were administered for 16 weeks. The LNCs were obtained from lactic‐acid‐fermented green leaf juice mixtures.

The effects of LNC in the feed indicated that.

Rainbow trout did not have a satisfactory growth on feed with 25% or 45% LNC incorporated whereas fish on 12.5% LNC in the feed did not differ from fish on the control feed.

Rainbow trout on LNC feed did not have the delicate acidulous taste characteristic of fresh rainbow trout.

The muscle lipid level was reduced with increased LNC level of the feed.

The relative level of monounsaturated fatty acids decreased whereas polyunsaturated fatty acids increased with an increased level of LNC, and saturated fatty acids.
Binding of heterocyclic amines by yeast cells and their fractions
Authors: Zhang Xue Bin , Demuyakor Bawa , Asahara Naomi , Ohta Yoshiyuki
Published: October 2006

The binding of mutagenic pyrolysis products to cells of 50 yeast strains and their cell fractions was investigated. Cells of all yeast strains effectively bound 3‐amino‐1,4‐dimethyl‐5H‐pyrido[4,3‐b]indole (Trp‐P‐1) and 3‐amino‐1‐methyl‐5H‐pyrido[4,3‐b]indole (Trp‐P‐2). Cell walls (CW), and cell wall glucan and mannan (5 mg in each case) showed the highest binding of Trp‐P‐1 (50 μg ml−1); glucan adsorbed virtually all of the Trp‐P‐1. Cytoplasm also showed some binding but was much less effective. Glucans also bound well with 2‐amino‐3‐methylimidazo[4,5‐f]quinoline (IQ) and 2‐amino‐3,8‐dimethylimidazo 4,5‐quinoxaline (MeIQX) much more than CW, but 2‐amino‐5‐phenylpyridine (Phe‐P‐1) and 2‐amino‐3,4‐dimethylimidazo[4,5‐f]quinoline (MelQ) were not effectively bound. The quantity of IQ, MeIQ, Phe‐P‐1 and MeIQX bound was dependent on the strain of yeast. The mutagenic pyrolysis products bound to cells were effectively extracted by aqueous methanol, ammonia (50 g litre−1) and alcohol, but not by water. The binding was pH dependent and inhibited by metal salts. When yeast cells were heated to 100° for 15 min, the binding of Trp‐P‐1 decreased by about 30% but Saccharomyces cerevisiae 50 heated to 100° did not differ much from untreated cells in its binding ability.
Iron, nickel, copper, zinc and cadmium content of two cultivars of white yam (Dioscorea rotundata) and their source soils
Authors: Bonire Josiah J , Jalil Neelam N S , Lori Joseph A
Published: October 2006

The determination by atomic absorption spectroscopy of the iron, nickel, copper, zinc and cadmium content of two cultivars of white yam (Dioscorea rotundata Pair) and their source soil from three farms, and also of random samples of the cultivars from five geographical areas in Kaduna and Plateau states of Nigeria, is reported. The analyses show all the metals except Fe to be in trace amounts in the tissues of both cultivars; the barks contain two to four times more. The iron content was found to be about 20 times higher in the bark than in the tissue. Less than 0.7% of the metals present in the soil could be extracted with NH4NO3 solution. Yam bark, which contains reasonable amounts of the above metals, could be useful as cattle feed. Yam tissue, having a high content of Zn compared with Cd, could be recommended for the diet of hypertensive patients.
Physicochemical properties of sweet potato starch
Authors: Tian S J , Rickard J E , Blanshard J M V
Published: October 2006

Tropical root crops, of which the sweet potato is an important representative, constitute an under exploited resource of developing countries. They can be used as food for both human and animal consumption and their starch is a source of industrial raw material. This review will consider recent reports on sweet potatoes, the physicochemical properties of their starches in comparison with other starches, and the possible causes of variation in these characteristics.
Characteristics of winged bean (Psophocarpus tetragonolobus) seeds during soaking and boiling
Authors: Sambudi Handajani , Buckle Ken A
Published: October 2006

The effects of soaking small, medium and large seeds of Psophocarpus tetragonolobus (L) DC for up to 24h and then boiling the seeds for up to 30 min, or boiling the raw seeds for up to 120 min, were examined. Trends for hardness and water absorption of the beans were similar for all bean sizes. Soaking and/or boiling reduced the hardness of beans and increased the water absorption leached solids, water holding capacity and swelling power. Small beans were the hardest and showed the lowest level of the other characteristics. Medium sized beans were softer and had higher values of the above four parameters. Soaking for 24 h and then boiling for 30 min was more efficient in reducing the hardness of the beans than boiling for 2h. Linear regression showed high correlations among almost all the parameters measured.
Effects of the consumption of fully cooked red kidney beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) on the growth rate of rats and the morphology of the gut wall
Authors: McPherson Lorna
Published: October 2006

Over an 8‐week period six rats were fed a fixed quantity of a diet consisting of a purified diet (AIN76A) into which red kidney beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L), previously cooked at 100° for 30min, dried and ground, were incorporated at the level of 100 g kg−1. Another six rats were fed AIN76A as a control diet. Weekly weight, weight gain and efficiency of feed conversion were noted for each rat. Six days prior to the end of the experiment, faeces were collected daily from each rat and the moisture, protein and lipid content as well as the bacterial flora of the pooled sample for each rat were determined. At the end of the 8‐week period the rats were anaethetised with ether and decapitated. Two areas of the gut wall were examined histologically, and the serum was analysed for protein, albumin, globulin, glucose, cholesterol, urea N, creatinine, calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase, aspartine aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, lipase, total bilirubin, sodium, potassium, chlorine and carbon dioxide. Whereas no damage to the gut wall of the control animals was observed, varying amounts of damage were evident in the test animals. Serum cholesterol in the test animals was also significantly lower compared with the controls.
Variation in protein and trypsin inhibitor activity with maturity and amino acid composition of winged bean (Psophocarpus tetragonolobus) seeds
Authors: Prakash Dhan , Misra P N , Misra P S
Published: October 2006

The protein and trypsin inhibitor activity in pods and seeds of winged bean (Psophocarpus tetragonolobus (L) DC) increase, and in the pod hull decrease, with the maturity of plant. The seeds of 21 cultivars both exotic and of Indian origin cultivated on marginal alkaline soil (pH 8.7) were analysed for protein (36.4–45.3) and amino acid composition (lysine 4.8 to 6.7).
Correction for protein content in the determination of the glucosinolate content of rapeseed by the X‐RF method
Authors: Zhao Fangjie , Evans Eric J , Bilsborrow Paul E , Schnug Ewald , Syers J Keith
Published: October 2006

Thirty six rapeseed samples from a factorial designed nitrogen and sulphur trial were analysed for total glucosinolate content by the X‐ray fluorescence (X‐RF) and HPLC methods and for protein content by the Kjeldahl method. Protein content varied from 16.0 to 22.6%. Correction for seed protein content in the calculation of glucosinolate content by X‐RF significantly improved the agreement between the two methods of glucosinolate analysis. The following equation was used in the correction: Y = 14.99 [S(mg g−1)‐protein %/7.5].
Identification of E‐Hex‐3‐enal as an important contributor to the off‐flavour aroma in kiwifruit juice
Authors: Young Harry , Perera Conrad O , Paterson Vivienne J
Published: October 2006

The volatile components of the juice of kiwifruit (Actinidia deliciosa (A Chev) Liang et Ferguson var deliciosa cv Hayward) have been isolated by low temperature vacuum distillation followed by ether extraction of the aqueous distillate and by headspace sampling using Chromosorb 105 adsorption. Of the 73 compounds identified, E‐hex‐3‐enal has been shown to be a major contributor to the ‘old cut grass’ and ‘hay’ aroma notes found in kiwifruit juice. Several free carboxylic acids have also been identified as components of the volatiles.
Stability of red beet pigment concentrate in maize starch
Authors: Altamirano Rolando C , Drdák Milan , Šimon Peter , Smelík Andrej , Simko Peter
Published: October 2006

Two pigment concentrates, differentiated as dark (D) and rose (R), were prepared from fermented red beet (Beta vulgaris L var rubra) and applied to two types of maize starch, industrial (IS) and modified (MS). The samples were stored for 191 days at room temperature. The decay of the two red pigments in the two maize starches was DIS 12.70%, DMS 9.43%, RIS 14.15%, RMS 8.54% and followed a first order reaction. The modified maize starch was found to be the most suitable carrier of the pigment. Water activity played a determining role in this result.
Xenobiotics: Their activity and mobility in plants and soils
Authors: Goodman B A , Allison Late M J , Oparka K J , Hillman J R
Published: October 2006

This paper examines the benefits and problems that have arisen from the use of xenobiotics in modern agriculture. Factors which control the transport and metabolism of xenobiotic molecules in plants and soils are considered, with emphasis being placed on the identification of topics which, in the opinion of the authors, are appropriate for increased research activity. The various approaches that are currently used for the analysis of xenobiotic residues in biological materials are also reviewed briefly.
Implication of cell wall degrading enzymes in the heat‐induced softening of the African pear (dacryodes edulis (G Don) H J Lam)
Authors: Okolie Paulinus N , Obasi Bonkens N
Published: October 2006

Extracts of the pulp of mature fruits of African pear (Ducryodes edulis) were assayed for the activities of the cell wall degrading enzymes cellulase, pectin esterase, polygalacturonase and proteinase. All enzymes were found to be endogenous to the pear pulp. Studies on the softening temperatures of the fruit revealed that softening of pear pulp slices was negligible at room temperature (28°C) and 100°C but most effective in the range 60‐85°C. Moreover, there was a close correlation between this effective softening temperature range and the optimum temperatures of the cell wall degrading enzymes. These results suggest that the heat‐dependent softening of the African pear pulp may be due to induction of endogenous cell wall degrading enzymes by heat.
Effects of steeping and germination time on growth rate and phenolics content of Nigerian Sorghum bicolor and Sorghum vulgare seedlings
Authors: Iwuoha Chinyere I
Published: October 2006

Moisture content and enthalpy, growth rates, and phenolics of germinating grains of Sorghum bicolor Moench (SK) and Sorghum vulgare L (LR) were evaluated as functions of steeping time, air‐rest and formalin treatments, and germination time. Results obtained showed that 24‐h steeping gave rise to the highest growth rate, which was greater for LR than SK. The moisture and enthalpy which gave rise to optimum germination rate were 0.48 and 0.48 kg kg−1, 422.69 and 392.32 kJ kg−1 for LR and SK, respectively. Air‐rested steeping effected the maximum growth rate as well as high phenolics retention in the germinated grains. Formalin re‐steeping imparted 71.32 and 68.88 % reduction in phenolics in LR and SK, respectively, while causing very low growth rate in the seedlings. However, no significant difference was found (P = 0.05) between FRS and low‐temperature steeping for the two parameters.
Changes in intramuscular collagen of cod (Gadus morhua) during post‐mortem storage in ice
Authors: Montero Pilar , Mackie Ian M
Published: October 2006

Intramuscular collagen was isolated from the muscle of large and small cod (Gadus morhua L) stored in ice for periods up to 24 days. The solubilities in salt solution (salt soluble collagen), in dilute acetic acid (acid soluble collagen) and on heating (heat soluble collagen) were used as indices of aggregation. The solubility of collagen decreased slightly as rigor mortis developed in the flesh, but as rigor resolved it increased markedly. On storage post‐rigor the solubilities on heating and in acid increased steadily and coincided with sharp increases in acidic and alkaline proteolytic activity in the muscle. The results obtained indicate that degradation of collagen takes places initially with the development of rigor mortis and that it continues as the muscle ages. Possible mechanisms are discussed.
Effect of growing conditions on the corrosivity and ascorbic acid retention in canned tomato juice
Authors: Albu‐Yaron Ana , Feigin Amos
Published: October 2006

Tomatoes (Lycopersicon esculentum) (M82‐1‐8) grown hydroponically in a greenhouse experiment at 16 combinations of nitrate/chloride nutrient solutions were processed as juice and the canned product was stored at 22°C and 36°C for 27 months to study corrosion of the packs from the point of view of detinning or delamination of the internal lacquer and comparative retention of ascorbic acid content.

Detinning in plain tinplate cans was greater with juices from tomatoes grown in high nitrate, low chloride solution as a result of the high nitrate content of tomatoes. Addition of chloride decreased the nitrate uptake of the tomatoes, thereby reducing detinning in plain cans significantly. A relevant positive correlation between detinning and high nitrate, high chloride nutrient regime after 27 months storage was attributed to an increase in total acid (as anhydrous citric acid) content of the respective juices and hence increased corrosivity.

Delamination, with underfilm corrosion, in lacquered cans was correlated with tomatoes grown under a higher nitrate, medium chloride regime, giving medium levels of nitrate (0.30‐0.65 mmol litre−1) and chloride (20‐25 mmol litre−1) but higher levels of acidity (24‐37 mmol litre−1citric acid) in the juice. Tomatoes grown under a higher nitrate, low chloride regime exhibited nitrate concentrations as high as 1.0 mmol litre−1and high corrosivity. Tomatoes grown under low nitrate and increasing levels of chloride regimes gave juices containing as low as 0.18 mmol litre−1of nitrate but higher chloride concentrations up to 42 mmol‐litre−1; no delamination was observed in lacquered cans of these juices but some pitting corrosion and perforations occurred at the end of 27 months at 36°C.

Ascorbic acid retention was mainly correlated with the type of can as well as with the initial ascorbic acid level of the raw tomatoes, itself the result of the interaction of Cl−and NO3−in the nutrient solution. During 27 months storage, the ascorbic acid retention was consistently higher in tomato juice canned in plain tinplate cans (88 % at 22°C or 70% at 36°C) than in lacquered cans (24% at 22°C or 18% at 36°C).
Possible use of alfalfa (Medicago sativa) as supplement in infant nutrition: Comparison of weight gained by rats fed on alfalfa and a popular weaning diet
Authors: Takyi E E K , Kido Y , Rikimaru T , Kennedy D O
Published: October 2006

Rats (Wistar strain, 3 weeks old, 12 rats per group) were fed either Alfamix (alfalfa nutrient cake and roasted corn 1:4 w) or Weanimix (roasted groundnut:roasted corn, 1:4 w) or stock diet (commercial rat diet) for 4 weeks to compare the ability of Alfamix and Weanimix to support the growth and general well‐being of the rats. Results indicated that rats fed on Alfamix consumed significantly more feed (11.95 g day−1) than those fed on Weanimix (9.47 g day−1). Furthermore the protein efficiency ratio of the Alfamix group (1.41) was significantly higher than that for the Weanimix group (0.96); consequently, the weight gained by the Alfamix group was higher than that by the Weanimix group. There were no significant differences in the haematological indices of the two groups. These results suggest that alfalfa nutrient cake incorporated into weaning diets of children could enhance their nutritional status.
Headspace sampling methods for the volatile components of garlic (Allium sativum)
Authors: Pino J A
Published: October 2006

The suitability of dynamic headspace for isolating the volatiles of garlic for subsequent GC analysis was evaluated. Volatile trapping followed by solvent or thermal desorption was performed with different adsorbent traps. Dynamic headspace analysis by thermal desorption performed with Tenax GC gave the best results in terms of recovery and concentration of volatiles.
Effect of microwave heating on pyrazine formation in a model system
Authors: Ji Hong , Bernhard Richard A
Published: October 2006

The role played by microwave heating was contrasted with conventional heating in pyrazine formation using a model system containing glucose, glycine and base. The data obtained from this study showed clearly that the heating system, and the time and temperature of heating, greatly influenced pyrazine formation and pyrazine distribution. Kinetic studies indicated that pyrazine formation follows pseudo zero order reaction rates, and this order is the same regardless of the heating method used.
In‐vitro evaluation of european diets for pigs. Prediction of the organic matter digestibility by an enzymic method or by chemical analysis
Authors: Van Der Meer J M , Perez J M
Published: October 2006

The in‐vitro method of Metz and van der Meer simulates the digestion in pigs by consecutive incubations with pepsin/pancreatin and cellulase. This method was studied as an alternative to prediction of the in‐vivo organic matter digestibility by chemical analysis. After calibration with samples of known in‐vivo digestibility, the in‐vitro method enabled prediction of the digestibility coefficient of the organic matter obtained in trials with growing pigs.

In this study, 89 samples of diets with known in‐vivo organic matter digestibility were analysed by the enzymic method. The linear relationship between digestibility of organic matter in vivo (dO) and in vitro (vOp) for all samples had a correlation coefficient (r) of 0.92 and a residual standard deviation (RSD) of 2.0. The natural logarithm of crude fibre (InXF) as an additional variable in the regression model improved the prediction (r = 0.95; RSD = 1.7). This indicated that the in‐vitro method does not fully simulate fibre digestion in the pig.

For the Dutch diets the prediction of dO from the measured chemical composition of the raw materials and the digestibility coefficients from the Dutch Tables of Feedstuffs showed a similar correlation to prediction with in‐vitro methods. However, the deviation of the average predicted value from the average in‐vivo value was 3.7 units when digestible nutrients were used and only 0.3 units when the in‐vitro method was used.
UV Absorption microspectrophotometry and digestibility of cell types of bermudagrass internodes at different stages of maturity
Authors: Akin Danny E , Hartley Roy D
Published: October 2006

The walls of sclerenchyma, vascular bundle sheaths, and parenchyma at different maturities (internodes 2, 5, and 7 from the apex) of bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon (L) Pers] were analyzed by UV absorption microspectrophotometry, and the results were related to wall digestibility. Sclerenchyma walls from internode 2 were degraded by rumen microorganisms, with only the middle lamella remaining. Undegraded sclerenchyma walls gave a UV absorption spectrum similar to that of p‐coumaroyl and feruloyl arabinoxylo‐trisaccharides isolated from bermudagrass cell walls. Absorption maxima occurred at ˜ 245 and 320 nm, together with a shoulder at ˜ 280 nm. Sclerenchyma from the older internodes 5 and 7 showed only partial degradation of the secondary wall adjacent to the lumen. Spectra of undegraded walls from these internodes showed absorption maxima at ˜ 245 and 285 nm with a shoulder at ˜ 320 nm. Spectra of sclerenchyma walls that included the middle lamellae gave a higher absorption at ˜ 320 nm than did wall layers excluding the middle lamellae. Vascular bundle sheaths generally were similar in digestion patterns and spectra to those of sclerenchyma. Parenchyma cells in internode 2, which were totally degradable, gave low absorbance. Parenchyma cell walls from internodes 5 and 7 were degraded except for the middle lamellae in cells nearest to the sclerenchyma; parenchyma cells nearest to the stem centre were totally degraded. Spectra of parenchyma wall regions that included middle lamellae were similar to the p‐coumaroyl and feruloyl arabinoxylo‐trisaccharides, and absorbance values were low compared with sclerenchyma and vascular walls. Results suggested that esteror ether‐linked phenolic acids accounted for most of the UV absorption in young sclerenchyma and young and old parenchyma; lignin‐like aromatics increased in older, poorly digested sclerenchyma as ester/ether‐type compounds decreased. An estimation of the amount of ‘ferulic acid equivalents’ of the walls was made assuming all the absorbance at ˜ λmax 320 nm was due to ferulic acid; older sclerenchyma walls had the highest values (160 mg g−1 walls) and parenchyma walls the lowest (11 mg g−1 walls).
Content and chemical composition of epicuticular wax of ‘Navelina’ Oranges and ‘Satsuma’ Mandarins as Related to Rindstaining of Fruit
Authors: Sala J M , Lafuente T , Cuñat P
Published: October 2006

Changes in the content and chemical composition of epicuticular wax of susceptible and non‐susceptible ‘Navelina’ orange and non‐susceptible ‘ Satsuma’ mandarin fruits to rindstaining, growing in the area of Valencia (Spain), were studied. The epicuticular wax content of the susceptible Navelina fruits increases with ripening from 30 μg cm−2 in July to 110 μg cm−2 in January. The epicuticular wax content of the non‐susceptible Navelina fruits was similar to that of the susceptible ones. The epicuticular wax content of the Satsuma mandarin fruits was lower than that of Navelina orange fruits; it changed from 20 μg cm−2 in July to 40 μg cm−2 in January. In this study, no correlation between epicuticular wax content and susceptibility to rindstaining of the orange fruits was found. In general, alkanes, aldehydes and fatty acids are the major wax constituents, whereas the primary alcohols and the triterpenoids are the minor ones. The maximum incidence of rindstaining occurs at the end of October and the beginning of November, immediately after the major rate of increase of the fruit surface. Such an increase also concurs with the major hardening and facility of cracking of the wax layer.
Optical properties and appearance characteristics of tomato fruit (Lycopersicon esculentum)
Authors: Hetherington Mandy J , Macdougall Douglas B
Published: October 2006

Characterisation of the optical properties of the internal structures of tomatoes enhances assessment of the composite appearance. Reflectance colorimetry and the Kubelka‐Munk analysis to distinguish three distinct maturity groups of tomatoes were tested. Differences in the scatter, absorption and internal transmittance were found amongst the component structures of the intact tomato. Tomato fruit was also pulped and a range of dilutions prepared. The decrease in scatter, absorption and increase in internal transmittance with increased dilution suggests the importance of optical properties with changes in concentration.
Total dietary fibre contents in vegetables, fruits and berries consumed in Finland
Authors: Plaami Sirkka P , Kumpulainen Jorma T , Tahvonen Raija L
Published: October 2006

Total dietary fibre (TDF) contents of the major vegetables, fruits and berries commonly consumed in Finland were determined. The soluble (SDF) and insoluble dietary fibre (IDF) fractions of bilberry and lingonberry were determined separately. All analyses were performed by the enzymic‐gravimetric method of Asp et al (1983) J Agric Food Chem 31 476‐482, upon which the official AOAC established method is also based. Considerable variation was found in the TDF contents of fruits, vegetables and berries. However, the mean TDF contents of domestic and imported vegetables and berries were nearly equal. On the other hand, the TDF contents of domestic and imported apple varieties differed significantly, with Finnish apples having the highest TDF contents. The IDF and SDF contents of bilberry were 19‐32 and 4‐11 and those of lingonberry 19‐24 and 4‐5 g kg−1 FW, respectively.

The average intake of dietary fibre obtained from fresh vegetables, fruits and berries in Finland was estimated to be 5.6 g day−1 contributing to approximately 18% of the entire population's TDF intake.
Effect of tannins from faba beans on protein utilisation in rats
Authors: Alzueta Carmen , Treviño Jesús , Ortiz Luis
Published: October 2006

Experimental diets with various levels (0, 8.5, 17.0 and 25.5 g kg−1 diet) of a freeze‐dried tannin extract obtained from faba bean seeds were evaluated in a bioassay with rats. Faecal nitrogen excretion increased and true nitrogen digestibility decreased significantly (P < 0.01) with the inclusion of tannins in the diet. In contrast, the biological value of nitrogen was apparently unaffected.
Effect of autoclaving sugar‐beet fibre on its physico‐chemical properties and its in‐vitro degradation by human faecal bacteria
Authors: Guillon Fabienne , Barry Jean‐Luc , Thibault Jean‐François
Published: October 2006

The effect of structure and properties of sugar‐beet fibre on its degradability by human faecal bacteria was investigated by an in‐vitro fermentation test. The composition and physico‐chemical properties of sugar‐beet fibre were changed by autoclaving. Autoclaving at 122°C and 136°C for I h increased the solubility mainly of pectins and arabinans and caused increased swelling. The form of the fibre influenced the water‐binding capacity, the ionic form giving lowest values. Increasing the ionic strength of the medium reduced the water‐binding capacity, especially for the raw fibres and fibres autoclaved at 122°C. The composition of the fibre did not entirely explain these differences and the three‐dimensional arrangement of the different polymers in the cell wall was apparently involved. Galacturonic acid and arabinose were extensively depleted by human faecal bacteria and after 24h more than 80% of the initial carbohydrates had been degraded. However, the time course measurement of residual polysaccharides, production of short‐chain fatty acids and values of pH showed differences in the rate of fermentation; the presence of solubilised material stimulated bacterial proliferation. The removal of pectic polysaccharides increased the degradability of cellulose and this fact suggested that accessibility is mainly responsible for the slow attack of cellulose in sugar‐beet fibre.
Determination by HPLC of changes in tocopherol levels in spinach after industrial processing
Authors: Antonia Murcia M. , Vera Ana , García‐Carmona Francisco
Published: October 2006

The concentrations of tocopherols in spinach samples (raw, frozen and canned) have been determined by HPLC using an isocratic procedure with UV detection. β‐, γ‐ and σ‐tocopherols and α‐tocopheryl acetate were not detected in significant amounts. Tocopherol levels were observed to be maintained after the freezing process but very significant losses were found to occur during the canning process.
Chemical composition and biodegradability of crop residues colonized by white‐rot fungi
Authors: Karunanandaa Kanthasamy , Fales Steven L. , Varga Gabriella A. , Royse Daniel J.
Published: October 2006

Two experiments were conducted to study the degradation of rice (Oriza sativa L) straw and maize (Zea maize L) stover by selected white‐rot fungi, using loss of organic matter, disappearance of cell wall constituents, and in‐vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) as indices of rumen microbial degradation. Four white‐rot fungi—Cyrathus stercoreus, Dichomitus squalens and two strains (cellulase‐less mutant and a wild type) of Phanerochaete chrysosporium—were selected for the first experiment. After 30 days of solid state fermentation. C stercoreus increased IVDMD of both substrates from 373 g kg−1 (rice) and 393 g kg−1 (corn) to approximately 540 g kg−1 by selectively degrading hemicellulose as opposed to cellulose. The highest IVDMD was obtained with a minimal loss of dry matter (33 g kg−1). In contrast, both strains (wild and mutant) of P chrysosporium degraded cellulose and hemicellulose indiscriminately, and thus lowered the IVDMD to 276. 257 as opposed to 373 for rice straw and 301. 307 as opposed to 393 g kg−1 for maize stover. All the fungi showed a preference for degrading maize stover compared with rice straw, although the materials were similar in cellulose and lignin concentration. No direct correlation was found between lignin degradation and the improvement of substrate IVDMD of either substrate.

The objective of the second experiment was to determine the rate and extent of digestibility of rice straw colonized by C stercoreus during two incubation periods (15 and 30 days). Dry matter disappearance (DMD) was determined by ruminal incubation of the substrate contained in nylon bags. The 30‐day incubation period was superior (1.3 ×) to that of the 15‐day period in improving in‐situ DMD. Treatment of rice straw for 30 days not only improved the extent of dry matter digestibility (616 as opposed to 389 g kg−1), but also increased (1.5 ×) the rate of disappearance of substrate.
Identification of phenolic compounds and their relationships to in‐vitro digestibility of sorghum leaves from bird‐resistant and non‐bird‐resistant varieties
Authors: Mueller‐Harvey I. , Reed J D
Published: October 2006

Soluble phenolics in leaf blades and sheaths from the crop residues of 24 sorghum varieties were studied. Apigenin, luteolin, apigenin and luteolin 7‐O‐glucosides, p‐coumaric acid, butin and apigeninidin were identified. This is the first report of butin in sorghum tissues. Derivatives of the following compounds were also detected but not characterised further: apigeninidin, luteolinidin, chalcone, flavanone and/or dihydroflavonol, cinnamic acid, apigenin and luteolin. The composition of phenolics was clearly different between leaf blades (LB) and sheaths (LS), and also between leaf sheaths of bird‐resistant (BR) and non‐bird‐resistant (NBR) varieties. Routes of flavonoid biosynthesis in BR and NBR varieties appear to diverge at the flavanone/dihydroflavonol level. Several negative correlations were found between HPLC peaks and in‐vitro digestibilities, ie true dry matter and neutral‐detergent fibre digestibility. These were highly significant with butin and significant with several luteolin derivatives but only with one apigenin derivative. Butin in turn was highly negatively correlated with colorimetric measurements of 3‐desoxyanthocyanidins. This may suggest that butin—rather than the 3‐desoxyanthocyanidins as previously reported—is implicated in reducing dry matter digestibility. Selecting varieties low in luteolin derivatives and butin and rich in apigenin should enhance the digestibilities of sorghum crop residues.
Relative ability of a range of crop species to use phosphate rock and monocalcium phosphate as P sources when grown in soil
Authors: Haynes R J
Published: October 2006

Glasshouse experiments were conducted to compare the ability of a range of crop species to use the medium reactive Jordan phosphate rock (JPR), the highly reactive North Carolina phosphate rock (NCPR) and the highly soluble monocalcium phosphate (MCP) as P sources in a P‐deficient silt loam when supplied with nitrate‐N. Growth of wheat and barley resulted in excess anion uptake, a consequent rise in rhizosphere pH and yield increased in the following order: control < JPR < NCPR < MCP. Growth of buckwheat resulted in excess cation uptake, and as a result it used NCPR as effectively as MCP; the yield order was as follows: control < JPR < NCPR = MCP. Lupin, when supplied with nitrate, raised its rhizosphere pH and yield followed the same order as that for wheat and barley: control < JPR < NCPR < MCP. In contrast, when not supplied with nitrate and relying substantially on biological N2fixation, lupin absorbed a cation excess, lowered rhizosphere pH and the yield order was control < JPR = NCPR = MCP. Although rape and kale absorbed an anion excess and raised rhizosphere pH they were surprisingly effective at using phosphate rock as a P source; the yield order was control < JPR = MCP < NCPR. This was attributed to the known ability of rape to acidify its rhizosphere in a localised area just behind the root tip in response to P deficiency. The opportunity appears to exist for the strategic use of phosphate rock at times within arable rotations when species are present that can effectively use such P sources.
Cholesterol oxides in γ‐irradiated spray‐dried egg powder
Authors: Lebovics Vera K. , Gaál ödön , Somogyi László , Farkas József
Published: October 2006

Thin‐layer chromatography was used to follow up the chemical changes of cholesterol in spray‐dried egg powder γ‐irradiated under aerobic conditions with doses intended to eliminate Salmonella contamination.

Chemical changes induced in cholesterol in egg powder by ionising radiation proved to be similar in nature to those known to occur during autoxidation. Formation of 7‐hydroxy‐cholesterol isomers (α and β) could be observed even at 1 and 2 kGy. Doses of 4 and 6 kGy increased the quantity of these products and resulted in the appearance of cholesterol‐5 α,6α‐epoxide. At 6 kGy 7‐ketocholesterol was also identified. Non‐irradiated egg powder stored for 1 month contained approximately the same quantity of 7‐hydroxycholesterols as a freshly produced egg powder irradiated at 1 kGy; freshly produced egg powder irradiated at 6 kGy corresponded to 3‐month‐old egg powder.
Assessment of maximum cooking temperatures of previously heat treated beef. part 2: Differential scanning calorimetry
Authors: Ellekjær Marit Risberg
Published: October 2006

Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) was studied as a potential method for the determination of the previous heat treatment of beef. Samples of beef (M longissimus dorsi) from eight bulls were heat treated at nine different temperatures between 50 and 85°C and subsequently analysed by DSC. The DSC method was able to determine the previous heat treatment temperature of the beef samples with a prediction error of 0.6°C in the temperature range 50–72°C. when multivariate analysis of the full DSC‐thermograms was used. This indicates that DSC has potential applicability as a regulatory method to assess the maximum cooking temperature of previously heat treated beef.
Mycoflora and mycotoxin‐producing potential of fungi from poultry feeds and feed ingredients in Trinidad
Authors: Chang‐Yen Ivan , Bidasee Keshore , Rampersad Ganga
Published: October 2006

A survey of the mycoflora of poultry feeds and feed ingredients revealed a wide range of fungal genera and species, many of which are reported to be mycotoxigenic. Subculturing of randomly selected isolates from three of the most commonly occurring species confirmed their mycotoxin‐producing potential. On a brown‐rice substrate Aspergillus flavus Link produced on average 56 μg kg−1 aflatoxin B1. 53 μg kg−1 aflatoxin G‐1, and 336 μg g−1 cyclopiazonic acid. Similarly. subcultured Penicillium citrimum Thom produced 620 μg g−1 citrinin and Aspergillus tamarii Kita 13670 μg g−1 kojic acid. The need for a mycological/ chemical approach to mycotoxin monitoring is strongly indicated.