bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An improved method for the extraction and quantitation of anthocyanins in cocoa beans and its use as an index of the degree of fermentation
Authors: Pettipher Graha M. L.
Published: October 2006

A method for the extraction and quantitation of anthocyanins in cocoa beans is described. The principles of the method involve extraction in dilute acid, concentration and purification by means of a disposable reverse phase column and quantitation spectrophotometrically. The method recovers >95% of anthocyanins in the acid extract and has an average coefficient of variation of 12%. Results are presented for the effects of time of fermentation and the time of fermentation plus drying on the anthocyanin content of cocoa beans. Cut test results and anthocyanin assay results are presented for commercial samples of different origins.
The influence of diet and breed of cow on the efficiency of conversion of milk constituents to curd in cheese manufacture
Authors: Banks Jean M. , Clapperton John L. , Muir D. Donald , Girdler Anne K.
Published: October 2006

The influence of diet on the efficiency of conversion of milk solids to cheese in two breeds of cow, viz. Jersey and Friesian, was examined. An increase in the efficiency of conversion of milk solids to cheese in Jersey milks produced from cows on winter diets as compared with a typical summer diet was shown to be associated with an improvement in the level of fat retention in curd. The difference in fat retention could to some extent be related to the overall fat content of the milk, the casein to fat ratio and the distribution in the size of the fat globules but these factors when considered collectively or independently could not adequately explain the differences in fat retention observed in these experiments. The level of fat retention in curd was not influenced by the thermal properties of the mik fat.
Ochratoxin a in pig kidney determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (elisa)
Authors: Morgan Michael R. A. , McNerney Ruth , Chan Henry W.‐S. , Anderson Peter H.
Published: October 2006

An indirect, double antibody enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) has been validated for application to pig kidney. The specificity of the anti‐ochratoxin A antiserum employed is such that minimal sample preparation is required prior to assay, with consequent beneficial effects on sample throughput. Kidneys (303) obtained in the UK as being unsuitable for human consumption were examined for ochratoxin A content by ELISA. Of these, 191 (63%) contained no detectable toxin (the detection limit was 0.5 ng g−1). Only eight samples (2.6%) contained more than 5 ng g−1 ochratoxin A, and only two were above 10 ng g−1 (at 11.5 and 12.4 ng g−1). The significance of these findings is discussed.
Surface lead pollution of roadside crops in relation to the distance from an emitting line source
Authors: Favretto Luciano , Marletta Guiliana Portoldi , Favretto Luciana G.
Published: October 2006

The asymptotic decrease in lead concentration c in roadside crops according to the distance d from the edge of an isolated straight road can be described empirically by means of the three‐parameter exponential function c=A+B exp (‐Cd). Least‐squares non‐linear regression allows the estimation of the parameters A, B and C. The validity of the function was tested by fitting it to a few sets of observations on unwashed wine grape and leaf samples. An analysis of residuals was performed, considering in particular the extent of the normality of their distribution. The function was also applied to a few sets of data of low sample size to examine the effect of washing on the parameters of the function.
Investigation of the presence and significance of theanine in the tea plant
Authors: Feldheim Walter , Yongvanit Puangrat , Cummings Philip H.
Published: October 2006

Theanine was determined in black teas and tea plants by a combination method of thin‐layer chromatography (t.l.c.) and densitometry. It was shown that in 20 samples of black tea from different qualities and sources the amount varied from 0.33 to 1.59 g 100 g−1 dry wt. The highest quality black teas possessed the lowest amount of theanine, but it is subject to chemical degradation during black tea manufacture. The investigation of physiological function of theanine in the tea plant showed that during germination the theanine level reached a maximum after 45 days. This indicates that at this period of the growth of the tea plant theanine acted as a source of nitrogen and as a starting point for the synthesis of the carbon skeletal compounds of the tea plant. Theanine was found to exist in all parts of the tea plant but it accumulated more in young and active tissues and also in younger plants, which emphasises its metabolic role in the tea plant. The distribution of theanine in the shoots indicated that the first leaf was the principal site for the synthesis of polyphenolic compounds from theanine.
The effect of methanal (formaldehyde) treatment of casein on its digestion in vivo and in vitro
Authors: Finlayson Heather J. , Armstrong David G.
Published: October 2006

The effect of methanal (HCHO) treatment of casein on its in vitro and in vivo digestion was investigated. As the quantity of HCHO bound to casein increased, the in vitro rumen degradability decreased but no further reduction occurred above 10.6 g HCHO kg−1 treated casein DM. The proportion of the original HCHO (25.4 g HCHO kg−1 treated casein DM) remaining bound to casein at pH values 3.0 to 6.0 was approximately 0.5; the proportion remaining bound at pH 2.0 was significantly less (0.39). N solubility and in vitro digestion of casein by pepsin/HCl and/or intestinal proteolytic enzymes was significantly reduced by treatment with HCHO (10.6 g HCHO kg−1 treated casein DM). When fed to rats the dry matter (DM) and true N digestibilities decreased significantly as the ratio HCHO;casein increased; the digestibility of the N‐free component of the diet remained unchanged. The quantity of available lysine in the diets and their true biological value (BV) decreased as the level of bound HCHO increased; there was significant linear relationship between BV and available lysine. The apparent disappearances of amino acids from the small intestine of sheep, when untreated or HCHO treated caseins (12.3 g HCHO kg−1 DM) were infused into the duodenum, were not affected by the pH of the infusate (pH 2.5 or 6.8) but were significantly reduced by HCHO treatment. It is concluded that exposure of HCHO‐treated casein to low pH values does not completely release bound HCHO from casein and that the intestinal digestion of casein to which HCHO remains bound is reduced when compared to untreated casein. All amino acids determined showed similarly reduced apparent intestinal absorptions due to HCHO treatment. It is suggested that the lower BV of HCHO‐treated caseins was due to reduced metabolic availability of lysine.
Recent observations on the occurrence of fishy flavour in bacon
Authors: Coxon David T. , Peers Kenneth E. , Griffiths Nerys M.
Published: October 2006

An examination of reject bacon samples supplied directly from a factory showed that some samples described by a sensory panel as oily and fishy contained significantly higher levels of long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in their fat than normal samples. When bacon samples obtained from retail outlets were similarly analysed and then subjected to sensory assessment, those found to contain long chain PUFA were given significantly higher scores for oily and fishy flavour. Observations on the fatty acid composition of fishy bacon samples as compared to non‐fishy ones and further investigation into the diets of pigs producing suspect carcasses led to the conclusion that too high a content of fish products in the diet was the main cause of the problem. Contrary to what had been believed, fresh non‐fishy bacon samples did not develop fishy flavour after storage at −20°C for 15 weeks. Perceived fishiness was not related to total copper content as determined by atomic absorption spectroscopy.
Changes in the nitrogenous components of gamma‐irradiated and inoculated ensiled ryegrass
Authors: Heron Shirley J. E. , Edwards R. Alun , McDonald Peter
Published: October 2006

A study was made of the role of plant and microbial enzymes in the major nitrogenous changes during ensilage. Perennial ryegrass was ensiled directly, after gamma‐irradiation, and after inoculation of the sterile grass with homofermentative lactobacilli. Plant enzymes mainly were responsible for proteolysis, whereas amino acid metabolism was the result of microbial activity. Inoculation reduced proteolysis: this was considered to be a result of rapid acidification. Lactobacillus plantarum and Streptococcus faecalis were shown to be non‐proteolytic species with a limited ability to catabolise amino acids. Substantial quantities of water‐soluble carbohydrates were made available during ensilage.
Effect of frying oil quality and TBHQ on the shelf‐life of potato crisps
Authors: Asap Telingai , Augustin Mary Ann
Published: October 2006

Three different systems were used for the evaluation of the effect of frying oil quality and tertiarybutyl hydroquinone (TBHQ) on the shelf‐life of fried potato crisps. Batches of potato slices were fried for 4 min at 30 min intervals over a period of 5 h day−1 for eight consecutive days in refined, bleached and deodorised palm olein (RBD olein) without antioxidant (system 1); RBD containing 200 μg g−1 TBHQ at the start of the experiment (system 2) and RBD olein which had TBHQ topped up to a level of 200 μg g−1 at the start of each frying day (system 3). Sensory evaluation of crisps showed that there is an initial rapid decrease in shelf‐life with increase in fry number in all systems. There was only a comparatively smaller effect on shelf‐life with increase in fry number in later fryings. When the shelf‐life of crisps was related to the quality of oil in the frying medium, it was found that the shelf‐life of the product is only slightly affected when the oil had deteriorated beyond the acceptable limit of quality of frying oil, where the acceptable limit was taken as 27‐30% polar components and 1–2 mg potassium hydroxide g−1 oil. TBHQ does have a protective carry‐through effect. The protective effect is more pronounced when TBHQ is topped up to a level of 200 μg g−1 at the beginning of each frying day.
A rapid h.p.l.c. method for the determination of methionine hydroxy analogue free acid in supplemented feeds
Authors: Baudichau Alain , Bruyer Denis C. , Ontiveros Renda , Shermer William D.
Published: October 2006

Two methods are described for determining methionine hydroxy analogue free acid (HMB) in supplemented poultry feeds. The procedure is based on extraction of analogue from the feed, followed by high‐pressure liquid chromatographic measurement of the HMB directly after extraction or, more rigorously, after extraction and hydrolysis of oligomers to monomer. Recoveries of HMB over the supplementation range 0.08–0.25% (by wt) are 98% with coefficients of variation of 5.4% in commercial poultry feeds. A 98% correlation coefficient is obtained when the analyses are compared with the gas chromatographic method.
A survey of the sulphur content of wheat grown in Britain
Authors: Byers Marjorie , McGrath Stephen P. , Webster Richard
Published: October 2006

In a survey of the sulphur content of wheat grown on British farms in 1981 and 1982 the percentage of sulphur in the grain ranged from 0.13% to 0.21%, equivalent to 0.11–0.18% at 14% moisture content, with a mean of 0.17%. The nitrogen‐to‐sulphur ratios, indicators of baking quality, were 11.5:1 and 13.1:1 in 1981 and 1982, respectively. The larger value in 1982 is attributed to the crop taking up much nitrogen during the exceptionally wet June. The ratio, however, was not critical in any sampler.

Mean sulphur contents computed for ADAS regions showed that, generally, grain grown in the English Midlands, Eastern counties and South East contained the most sulphur, and that in Scotland least. Maps of both sulphur content and the proportion of sulphur that occurs as sulphate were made by simple block kriging with blocks 14 × 14 km. These showed that above‐average sulphur contents occurred mainly in a belt of country extending from London to the West Midlands and South Yorkshire, with a maximum in the vicinity of Peterborough. Crops grown in Scotland contained least. The pattern corresponds closely with the deposition from the atmosphere predicted by the Central Electricity Research Laboratories. The distribution of sulphate as a percentage of total sulphur also had a marked regional pattern with largest concentrations in Cheshire, South Yorkshire, Fife and the rural Midlands of England.
Changes in elements, pectic substances and organic acids during development of boysenberry fruit
Authors: Monro John A. , Lee Julian
Published: October 2006

Changes in elements, pectic fractions, and organic acids during the development of boysenberries are described. Fruit were grouped into nine developmental stages on the basis of fresh weight and anthocyanin content. Stages 1–5 covered the earliest period of development (Stage 1 fresh weight=1.34 g), marked by fruit expansion and little accumulation of anthocyanin, whereas during Stages 6–9, when ripening occurred, fruit expansion ceased and anthocyanin content increased greatly. Most elements (except B and Na) fell into two very distinct groups. Over the course of development the content of Ca, Mn and Sr per fruit varied bimodally and decreased after the cessation of fruit growth, indicating a net efflux from the fruit. In contrast, K, Mg, Fe, Cu, Zn, P and S, which were all very significantly intercorrelated (P<0.01), increased approximately linearly and thus showed a net influx into the fruit. The decrease in Ca, Mn and Sr content per fruit coincided with a decrease in Ca pectate and total pectin, and a greatly increased proportion of cold water‐soluble pectin. Three acids, citric, malic and succinic, were detectable, with citric acid predominant. The changing content of malic acid paralleled that of Ca. The observed patterns of change suggested an increasing phloem/xylem influx ratio during fruit enlargement, with a subsequent loss of binding capacity in the cell‐wall, enabling remobilization of wall‐bound elements. The results imply that the Ca level in the fruit is important in the ripening of bramble fruit.
Effects of solute gradients on the osmotic potential of potato tubers stored at two temperatures
Authors: Gill Peter A. , Waister Peter D.
Published: October 2006

Tubers of the potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) cv. Pentland Crown were stored at either 2°C or 16°C in the dark. The concentrations of the major osmotica were measured at three positions along the tuber, together with parallel cryoscopic measurements of osmotic potential.

Positive gradients of concentration of potassium and organic acids, from the base to the apex of the tuber, were approximately balanced in their osmotic effect by negative gradients of soluble sugars. Tubers stored at 16°C showed a small net negative gradient of osmotic potential, and those at 2°C a slightly larger positive gradient. This difference was attributed to the steeper gradient of soluble sugars in tubers stored at 2°EC. There were no significant differences in the gradients of potassium, magnesium and organic acids between the two temperature treatments, nor were there any detectable changes in these gradients with time in storage.
A land grouping system for cultivation and sowing requirements for winter barley: Evaluation and modification of recommendations
Authors: Ball Bruce C. , O'Sullivan Michael F.
Published: October 2006

Results are presented which allow further development of a recently proposed grouping of land according to its minimum cultivation requirement for winter barley. The minimum cultivations required are: Group 1, direct drilling (no cultivation); Group 2, shallow ploughing or shallow cultivation to 50–150 mm depth and Group 3, mouldboard ploughing to >150 mm depth. Soil, climate and yield data are presented from field experiments on soils in each group located in the south east of Scotland. Results from short‐term experiments support the grouping. Long‐term average yields were similar among cultivation‐sowing systems when compaction was minimised and when weather at sowing was suitable. This effect was associated with an improvement in structure of Group 3 soils under zero and reduced cultivation systems. A reduced‐tillage broadcasting system allows more favourable localisation and timing of sowing traffic than drilling so that cultivation requirements may be reduced.
Phenolics, fibre and fibre digestibility in the crop residue from bird resistant and non‐bird resistant sorghum varieties
Authors: Reed Jess D. , Tedla Abate , Kebede Yilma
Published: October 2006

The relationship between phenolics and parameters of in‐vitro digestibility of neutral‐detergent fibre (NDF) in leaves and stems from the crop residue of bird resistant (BR) and non‐bird resistant (NBR) sorghum varieties was determined. The phenolics studied were lignin, insoluble proanthocyanidins, soluble red pigments and soluble phenolics as measured by absorbance (280 nm)and precipitation with ytterbium. Parameters of the digestibility of NDF studied were 48‐h digestibility, potentially digestible NDF, rate of digestion and indigestible NDF as determined by non‐linear regression analysis. Leaves from BR varieties were higher in most phenolics than leaves from NBR varieties. Digestibility of NDF at 48 h, potentially digestible NDF and rate of NDF digestion was lower in leaves from BR varieties. The indigestible NDF was higher in BR varieties. Phenolics in leaves were negatively correlated with digestibility of NDF at 48 h, potentially digestible NDF and rate of NDF digestion and positively correlated with indigestible NDF. Phenolics in stems had non‐significant correlations with parameters of the digestibility of NDF except for a positive correlation between lignin and indigestible NDF. These results indicate that breeding for bird resistance in sorghum would lead to lower nutritive value of the crop residue.
Thermostable muscle antigens suitable for use in enzyme immunoassays for identification of meat from various species
Authors: Kang'ethe Erastus K. , Lindqvist Kaare J.
Published: October 2006

A method for the extraction of thermostable muscle antigens for use in enzyme immunoassays is described. The method yields antigens devoid of contaminating proteins which reduce the adsorption of the antigens on to the plate. The effect of such proteins is stimulated by the addition of gelatin. Gelatin (5 mg ml−1) results in 100% inhibition of the antigen adsorption on to the plate.
Effect of post‐harvest treatment on the degradation of mimosine in Leucaena leucocephala leaves
Authors: Wee Kok Leong , Wang Shusen
Published: October 2006

The effects of sun drying, soaking at various temperatures and submergence times, and tissue disruption on mimosine removal in Leucaena leucocephala leaves were studied. The rate of mimosine elimination increased with an increase in both temperature and exposure time, but maceration of leaves did not significantly increase the rate of mimosine conversion. Prolonged soaking of leaves was most effective, and virtually all the mimosine was degraded after 48 hours' submergence in water at 30°C.
Some inhibitory effects of radiation stress on tomato fruit ripening
Authors: Adegoroye Adegoke S. , Jolliffe Peter A.
Published: October 2006

Detached tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill. cv. Vendor) fruit exposed to 650 W m−2 radiation from incandescent lamps for 1.5 or 4 h developed visible injury during subsequent storage. In tissues directly exposed to the radiation, ascorbic acid content was decreased and lycopene accumulation and protopectin solubilisation were blocked. For intact fruit, the respiratory climacteric was depressed, but ethylene production was enhanced following the radiation stress. Radiation injury blocks both the initiation and the progress of ripening.
Chemical composition, amino acid content and protein quality of Canavalia spp. seeds
Authors: Bressani Ricardo , Brenes Roberto Gómez , García Arnoldo , Elías Luiz G.
Published: October 2006

Canavalia ensiformis is a grain legume that offers good possibilities for its use, but reports on its chemical composition and nutritive quality are not readily available. This study presents chemical and nutritional data on C. ensiformis, C. gladiata and C. maritima grains. The three species varied in protein content mainly because of differences in crude fibre content. Protein varied from 26.9 to 22.4%, and crude fibre varied from 8.5 to 17.3%. This was due to differences in seed‐coat percentage. The amino acid content in C. ensiformis and C. gladiata was essentially the same, and both were deficient in sulphur‐containing amino acids but rich in lysine. Pressure cooking and roasting reduced lysine levels. Mineral content in the three species was essentially the same, with high potassium levels as is the case with most food legumes. Feeding trials indicated low nutritional quality for the raw grain, which was significantly improved by pressure cooking and roasting. Protein digestibility was 47.9%, and cooked and roasted samples had 76.4 and 78.7%, respectively. Both C. ensiformis and C. gladiata had the same protein quality (PER = 1.24), and it was significantly improved with methionine supplementation.
Gas chromatographic determination of indole glucosinolates—a re‐examination
Authors: Slominski Bogdan A. , Campbell Lloyd D.
Published: October 2006

The use of gas‐liquid chromatography (g.l.c.) as a technique for the analysis of glucosinolates, including indole glucosinolates, in low‐glucosinolate rapeseed meal and seed was assessed. Variation contributed by various steps of g.l.c. methodology was studied, and following modifications to the method analytical results were compared with those estimated from thiocyanate ion (SCN) release following treatment of samples with myrosinase enzyme. The volume of water required to effectively elute glucosinolates from a DEAE Sephadex column was shown to cause variability in analytical results. The effect was dependent upon the internal standard used and was most pronounced for indole glucosinolates. Heat treatment (95°C) required in the procedure for the inactivation of myrosinase enzyme was shown to result in substantial decomposition of indole glucosinolates. In this regard a standard procedure involving 15 min dry heat treatment followed by 3 min wet heat treatment is recommended. With these modifications the g.l.c. methodology was shown to be adequate as a routine procedure for the analysis of glucosinolates in low‐glucosinolate rapeseed meal and seed.
Effect of sulphur dioxide and blanching on the stability of carotenoids of dehydrated carrot
Authors: Baloch Ahmad K. , Buckle Kenneth A. , Edwards Ron A.
Published: October 2006

The influence of blanching and sulphiting of carrot on the stability of carotenoids of dehydrated carrot was evaluated. The carotenoid content of untreated and treated carrots was measured after dehydration and during storage of dehydrated carrot at 37°C. Sulphiting was found to have a marked effect on the stability of carotenoids of both unblanched and blanched carrots during dehydration and storage at 37°C. The effectiveness of sulphur dioxide was reduced by increasing blanching time to over 1 min, the period in which the carrot becomes just adequately blanched. Even 9621 μg−1 SO2 in over‐blanched carrot was not as effective as less than one‐quarter of this concentration in carrot that had been just adequately blanched. The combination of sulphiting, and blanching to a level sufficient to inactivate peroxidase activity, is considered to be the most effective method for enhancing the storage life of the product, and optimisation of the blanching process is highly desirable in order to gain the maximum benefit from the SO2 treatment.
Investigation into Pentaclethra macrophylla seed oil: Identification of hexacosanoic (C26:0) and octacosanoic (C28:0) fatty acids
Authors: Jones Andrew C. , Robinson Janet M. , Southwell Keith H.
Published: October 2006

The fatty acid composition of seed oil from Pentaclethra macrophylla was analysed by gas‐liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry. Linoleic acid (56.6%) was the major fatty acid with oleic (16.1%) and lignoceric (10.5%) acids making a significant contribution. Two long‐chain fatty acids not commonly found in vegetable oils were identified. These were shown to be hexacosanoic (C26:0) and octacosanoic (C28:0) acids; 4.8% and 1.0% of each acid being present, respectively. The oil content of the seeds was 42.0%.
Characterisation of aqueous extracts of seed proteins of Lupinus albus and Lupinus angustifolius
Authors: Yu Richard S.‐T. , Kyle William S. A. , Hung Tran V. , Zeckler Ronald
Published: October 2006

Aqueous isolation of proteins from lupin seeds at different pH values has been examined. Protein isolates were characterised by gel filtration, electrophoresis and protein digestibility studies. The efficiency of extracting protein, expressed as solubilised nitrogen, from L. angustifolius and L. albus seeds can be manipulated by using aqueous media at pH <3 or >8. Although lupin proteins extracted at pH 2, 7 and 8.5 produced similar elution profiles on gel filtration analysis, lupin proteins extracted at pH 2 contained a low proportion of high molecular weight polypeptides, and those at alkaline pH, e.g. at 8.5, contained high molecular weight polypeptides similar to those extracted from the seeds directly. This situation was confirmed by SDS—PAGE analysis. It can be concluded that structural damage to the seed proteins occurs at pH 2 extraction, resulting in more unfolded conformation. This conclusion is consistent with our results from in vitro protein digestibility studies.
Near infra‐red analysis of grass silage by principal component analysis of transformed reflectance data
Authors: Downey Gerard , Robert Paul , Bertrand Dominique , Devaux Marie Françoise
Published: October 2006

Most of the observed variation between n.i.r. spectra in any sample collection is due to particle size variation; in addition, absorbance readings are highly inter‐correlated. Application of multiple linear regression techniques to such spectral data produces a multiplicity of solutions which vary in the wavelengths selected and in predictive accuracy. Evaluation of all or most of these calibrations requires a significant amount of time. In the present study, alternative data treatment methods are described which reduce the effect of particle size variations, select only those wavelengths which contain significant information, and overcome the problem of inter‐correlation by means of principal component analysis. These methods were applied to the analysis of dried silage for crude protein (CP) and in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD); accuracy of the novel data treatments (best standard error of prediction of CP and IVDMD equal to 0.63 and 2.7, respectively) was better than that generally achieved by more conventional statistical techniques.
An enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay for diacetoxyscirpenol applied to the analysis of wheat
Authors: Mills E. N. Clare , Johnston Jane M. , Kemp Heather A. , Morgan Michael R. A.
Published: October 2006

High‐titre, high‐specificity antisera against diacetoxyscirpenol have been produced in rabbits and used to set up an indirect, microtitration‐plate enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay for the trichothecene mycotoxin. The assay, with a limit of detection of 2 pg per well, has been applied to the determination of diacetoxyscirpenol in wheat. Cereal extraction consists of a simple solubilisation of toxin in methanol resulting in an assay sensitivity of 300 ng g−1. Recovery, measured at three different toxin levels, was essentially quantitative.
Effect of intraruminal infusions of sodium bicarbonate on the rate of passage and degradation of dietary proteins in cows given a silage‐based diet
Authors: Newbold Charles J. , Chamberlain David G. , Thomas Phillip C.
Published: October 2006

Four non‐lactating cows, each fitted with a rumen cannula, were given a diet of grass silage, molasses, barley, soya bean meal and a mineral mix (70:14:9:6:1 on a dry matter basis) in eight meals a day. Four experimental treatments, consisting of intraruminal infusions of sodium bicarbonate at 0, 300, 600 and 900 g d −1in a 4×4 Latin square design, were used to study the effects of added bicarbonate on the rumen environment and on the predicted rumen degradability of soya bean meal, rapeseed meal and fishmeal.

Mean rumen pH values were 6.26, 6.53, 6.73 and 6.87 for the control and bicarbonate treatments, respectively; corresponding values for the fractional outflow of rumen liquid were 0.129, 0.142, 0.151 and 0.153 h−1 (SED 0.01; P>0.05) and for the fractional outflow rates of Cr‐mordanted protein particles 0.035, 0.040, 0.048 and 0.054 h−1 (SED 0.001; P<0.01).

Sodium bicarbonate had no effect on the disappearance of soya bean meal or rapeseed meal nitrogen from Dacron bags incubated in the rumen, but at the 900 g d−1 level there was an increased nitrogen disappearance from fishmeal at all incubation times; disappearances after 24 h were 0.64 and 0.68 (SED 0.025; P<0.05). Using the values for the disappearance of nitrogen and the outflow rates of Cr‐mordanted protein the predicted rumen degradabilities of soya bean meal and rapeseed meal were reduced by about 8% by the 900 g d −1 infusion, but for fishmeal there was no change in degradability since the effects of an increased outflow rate were counter‐balanced by an increased rate of loss of nitrogen in the Dacron bag incubations.
Influence of chemical and biological pretreatments on the degradation of lignocellulosic material by biological systems
Authors: Morrison Ian M.
Published: October 2006

A highly lignified lignocellulosic substrate, barley straw, was modified by treatment with a variety of chemical and biological reagents. These reagents had specific effects on different components of the cell wall. The residual materials after the treatments were analysed for their composition and degradability by two biological pretreatments, rumen liquor and pepsin/cellulase. The biological pretreatments (cellulase and hemi‐cellulase) gave residues with decreased degradability. Reagents which primarily attack the hemicellulose component gave residues with slightly increased degradabilities. When the treatments primarily hydrolysed the phenolic acid/acetic acid ester bonds, the degradabilities were also slightly increased, but only reagents which primarily attack the core lignin component of the cell wall gave residues with greatly increased degradabililies. Similar results were obtained with both biological systems, but the rumen liquor system was always more efficient than the pepsin/cellulose system.
Studies on the proteins of kodo millet (Paspalum scrobiculatum)
Authors: Sudharshana L. , Monteiro P. Vincent , Ramachandra Geeta
Published: October 2006

Studies on the proteins of five varieties of kodo millet showed that there are hardly any varietal differences. Fractionation of the proteins showed that glutelin is the major storage protein. The amino acid compositions of the protein of the five varities of kodo millet and the individual protein fractions of two varieties were determined. Lysine is the most limiting amino acid followed by methionine and cystine. There is no significant negative correlation between lysine levels and protein content. Sodium dodecylsulphate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis patterns indicate great similarities in the different varieties.
Filamentous structures of bovine myosin in diluted suspensions and gels
Authors: Hermansson Anne‐Marie , Langton Maud
Published: October 2006

Turbid solutions and fine‐stranded gels of myosin from bovine semi‐membranous muscle were investigated by transmission and scanning electron microscopy. Evidence is given that the turbidity was caused by filament formation upon dialysis to pH 5.5 and 0.25 M KCl and to pH 4.0 and 0.6 m KCl at 4°C. The filaments formed at pH5.5 and 0.25 m KCl had a backbone with a diameter of c. 25 nm with the myosin heads located close to the filament backbone. The total width of these filaments was c.45nm. The filaments were prepared for electron microscopy by adsorption on various substrates, negative staining, or freeze drying and rotary shadowing. Variations in the preparation technique did not affect the appearance of the filaments. The filaments formed at pH 4.0 and 0.6 m KCl had a more irregular appearance, and the total filament width varied between 20 and 45 nm. Fringes of globular material surrounding the filament backbone were seen but also clusters of myosin molecules protruding further out from the backbone and from the filament ends.

Comparison of heat‐treated filaments in dilute solutions with strands of the gel network confirmed that the gel strands originated from filaments formed upon dialysis prior to gelation. Typical features of the network structure were junction zones formed by parallel alignments of filaments in pairs and by end‐to‐side interactions forming so‐called Y‐junctions. At pH5.5 and 0.25 m KCl these interactions resulted in a rather loose and open network structure. At pH 4.0 and 0.6 M KCl the filaments often interacted approximately at right angles, which resulted in a denser network than that observed atpH5.5 and 0.25 m KCl. The efficient network formation at pH 4.0 gave rise to spontaneous gel formation upon dialysis without any heat treatment. Additional heating did not change the character of the network, and no differences could be observed between unheated and heat‐treated gels at low magnifications. At higher magnifications it could be seen that heating resulted in loss of details of the filaments at both pH values and ionic strengths. The shape of the myosin heads was lost, and the heads fused together on the filament backbone.
Japanese barnyard millet (Echinochloa frumentacea): Protein content, quality and SDS–PAGE of protein fractions
Authors: Monteiro P. Vincent , Sudharshana L. , Ramachandra Geeta
Published: October 2006

Total protein from five varieties of Japanese barnyard millet (Echinochloa frumentacea,) was separated into albumin/globulin, prolamin and glutelin fractions. The protein fractions were examined by sodium dodecylsulphate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Total protein of the varieties ranged from 110·5 to 139·3 mg g−1 of which 11·3–17·2% was albumin/globulins, 6·8–9·3% prolamins, 7·5–11·6% prolamin–like, 5·9–9·1% glutelin‐like and 39·3–54·4% true glutelins. Amino acid analyses of the total protein showed that the varieties had essentially the same ammo acid composition. With the exception of lysine the amino acid levels adequately matched the provisional FAO scoring pattern. The amino acid composition of the protein fractions was also very similar. Electrophoretic analysis showed that the albumin/globulin fraction contained three or four components; the prolamin and glutelin fractions each had five components. The glutelin fraction had higher molecular weight components than the other two fractions.
Changes in nitrogen content and amino acid composition of navel oranges during ripening
Authors: Tadeo José L , Ortiz JesúS M , Martín Bernardo , Estellés Antonio
Published: October 2006

Nitrogen content and composition of amino acids in juice and rind of navel oranges were studied. The compared varieties were ‘Navelina’ ‘Washington Navel’ and ‘Navelate’, early, mid‐season and late types, respectively. Total N content in juice increased during the season with values from about 60 to near 100 mg 100 ml−1 in Navelina and ‘Washington Navel’ and from 60 to about 80 mg 100 ml−l in ‘Navelate’; amino N increased from 30 to 60 mg 100 ml−lapproximately in the three varieties. The total N content in rind was quite similar in all cases, with values that decreased with time from 1 to around 0·6 g 100 g−l dry weight (DW), 50–60% corresponding to the protein N. The main free amino acids in juice and rind at different maturity stages are tabulated. Proline represents at maturity around 50% of the total free amino acids in rind, with values near to 1·5 mmol 100 ml−l in juice and over 5·0 mmol 100 g−1 DW in rind. Total protein amino acids in rind decreased during maturation, reaching final values of about 20 mmol 100 g−1 DW. Differences in composition among the three studied varieties are discussed.
Phenological and seasonal influences on essential oil of a cultivated clone of Origanum vulgare L
Authors: Putievsky E , Ravid U , Dudai N
Published: October 2006

By harvesting at different dates and frequencies, we have shown the influence of flowering on the essential oil of a clone of oregano grown under cultivation. Flowering increased the essential oil content. In non‐flowering plants the highest level of essential oil was obtained in June. The proportion of thymol and γ‐terpinene (1‐methy1–4‐(1‐methylethyl)‐1,4‐cyclohexadiene) in the essential oil varied during different months in non‐flowering plants as well as in different stages of flowering at the same date of harvest. Increase in the content of one of the two components was accompanied by decrease in the other one and vice versa. Flowering and season had no influence on the content of the other two main components in the essential oil (p‐cymene and carvacrol).
Influence of pejibaye palm (Bactris gasipaes H B K) fruit meal processed by different heat treatments on broiler performance
Authors: Zumbado Mario E , Murillo Mario G
Published: October 2006

Raw pejibaye meal, prepared using whole pejibaye fruits (Bactris gasipaes H B K), contained 0‐88g dry matter, 0.064g crude protein, 0.129g ether extract, 0043 g crude fibre and 0.619 g N‐free extract per gram of pejibaye meal. Three experiments were conducted to evaluate the use of pejibaye meal (PM) raw {RPM), sun‐exposed (SPM), autoclaved (APM) or extruded (EPM) in diets for broilers or white Leghorn cockerels. In Experiment I, using increasing dietary levels of RPM to replace maize, broilers had significantly poorer performance as the content of RPM increased. In a second trial, no improvement in performance was noticed when 0.5 or 1.0 RPM or SPM was substituted for sorghum. However, when 0.5 or 1.0 APM replaced sorghum, broilers showed better performance than controls. When EPM was used at proportions of 0.2 and 0.4 of the diet (Experiment 3) Leghorn cockerels had a better performance than controls with maize. Again, a detrimental effect was noticed in feed intake and weight gain even with low levels of RPM. Higher levels of RPM (0.2 and 0.4) caused the birds to perform very poorly. It was concluded that inclusion of RPM depressed food intake and growth rate, as did SPM. However, APM or EPM gave a performance as good as or better than maize or sorghum controls. PM could replace the grain portion of diets for chickens if it is suitably heat‐treated.
Physical changes in stored apples
Authors: And Michael A Perring , Pearson Keith
Published: October 2006

The longitudinal distribution of mass and volume in Cox's Orange Pippin apples altered during storage in air or in a controlled atmosphere. The proportions of both mass and volume in the central zone increased significantly during the first week and subsequently declined, with corresponding changes at the calyx and stalk ends of the fruit. The density of the whole fruit declined continuously during storage. The volume of apples stored in high humidity increased. These effects are discussed in relation to changes found previously in calcium distribution within apples and in fruit firmness during storage.
Fine structure of the myocommata‐muscle fibre junction in hoki (Macruronus novaezelandiae)
Authors: Hallett Ian C , Bremner H Allan
Published: October 2006

Transmission electron microscopic observations have been made of the interface between muscle fibres and myocommata of the fish, hoki (Macruronus novaezelandiae Hector). The fine structure of the interface is similar to that recorded for other vertebrate muscle. Collagen fibres from the myocommata penetrate sarcolemma‐lined invaginations into the base of the muscle fibre. A distinct basal lamina separates the sarcolemma from the collagen fibres. Microfilaments connect sarcolemma, basal lamina and collagen fibres. The myofibrils of the muscle fibre are connected to the inner sarcolemma surface by fine filaments from the final Z disc. During rigor mortis the structure of the interface remains unchanged. During post‐rigor storage on ice there is progressive breakdown at the interface, particularly of the invaginating collagen fibres and the basal lamina, resulting in detachment of muscle fibres from the myocomma.
Effects of ammonia treatment and stage of maturity of coastal Bermuda grass on monosaccharide residue composition and digestibility by steers
Authors: Ben‐Ghedalia Daniel , Yosef Edith , Solomon Ran , Rivera‐Villarreal Eladio , Ellis William C
Published: October 2006

The effect of ammonia treatment (4 % on a dry matter (DM) basis) and stage of maturity (3,6 and 12 weeks' regrowth of the grass) on the composition and digestibility by steers of cell wall (CW) monosaccharide residues of coastal Bermuda grass hay (Cynodon dactylon L Pers) is reported in this study. Maturation was associated with a gradual but consistent increase in the content of total and CW glucose and with a slight decrease in the content of matrix minor monosaccharides. The content of the CW non‐glucose polysaccharide fraction (NGP) was not affected by maturation. Ammonia treatment exerted a slight solubilising effect on CW components. Monosaccharide residues both in whole hay material and in the CW were equally digestible at the 3‐and 6‐week stages of maturity, but the digestibility dropped remarkably at 12 weeks of age. Ammonia treatment exerted a notable and positive effect on digestibility of monosaccharides generally, and tended to level off the negative effect of maturation. It is suggested that, in this study, the positive effect of ammonia treatment was mediated mainly via swelling of the CW fibrils, saponification of ester bonds, and loosening of the inner structure of the CW, rather than by solubilisation of CW material.
Rumen digestion of untreated and alkali‐treated cereal straws: A study by multiple internal reflectance infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Russell James D , Fraser Anthony R , Gordon Alex H , Chesson Andrew
Published: October 2006

Multiple internal reflectance (MIR) infrared spectroscopy of wheat and barley straw shows fundamental chemical differences between their inner and outer surface layers (1‐3 μm thick). Inner layers were dominated by polysaccharide in which cellulose and hemicellulose characteristics could be identified. Weak absorption arising from small amounts of lignin and acetyl groups was also detectable. In contrast, the outer layers were silicified (SiO2), more highly lignified, and contained ester groups which originate predominantly in cutin and long‐chain waxes in the outermost cuticular layer.

MIR spectra of rumen‐incubated straw clearly indicate that little or no degradation occurred at the outer surface but that appreciable polysaccharide had been solubilised from the inner surface after 120 h of digestion. This was concluded from the detection of much higher levels of lignin at the inner surface, suggesting that the concentration of this component may be a limiting factor in the progress of the degradation. Absorption due to acetyl groups was also enhanced in spectra of the digested inner surface, suggesting that these groups also may be indirectly implicated in control of digestion.

From changes in MIR spectra it was concluded that alkali pretreatment of straw scarcely alters the chemistry of the inner surfaces but significantly modifies that of the outer layers as a result of hydrolysis of cutin and acetyl ester groups and dissolution of a large proportion of the silica phase. These chemical changes result in surface disruption, probably providing additional routes by which enzymic attack can proceed beyond the point at which digestion of untreated straw ceases. An as yet unidentified organic component presumably of microbial origin accumulated preferentially on the outer straw surfaces during rumen digestion. It is not yet known whether this component exerts any influence on digestibility.
Ethanolic extraction of commercial rapeseed meal in the production of protein concentrate of reduced glucosinolate content
Authors: Finnigan Timothy J A , Lewis Michael J
Published: October 2006

The aim of this work was to investigate suitable extraction procedures for the production of a protein concentrate of significantly reduced glucosinolate content from commercial rapeseed meal. The level is a factor in deciding its suitability for either animal or human food. Ethanolic extraction was studied as a function of time, solvent to meal ratio and solvent composition, to minimise concomitant losses of solids and nitrogen. Rapeseed meal was extracted over the range of 0 to 100% (v/v) aqueous alcohol. A concentration of 80% was found to give the best compromise between glucosinolate extraction and other component loss, but glucosinolate extraction was only about 30%. Increase of solvent polarity improved glucosinolate extractability, but extraction yields greater than 70% were not found. Subsequent extraction of the pretreated meal with water at pH 11.0 gave extracts of lower glucosinolate concentration than those made from non‐pretreated meal, but residual concentrations of the glucosinolate were unacceptable. Additional hydrolysis of the glucosinolates by exogenous myrosinase is proposed to improve extractability.
Effect of ripening on the chemical composition of plantain peels and pulps (Musa paradisiaca)
Authors: Izonfuo Welford‐Abbey L , Omuaru Victor O T
Published: October 2006

The composition of minerals and organic contents of the peels and pulps of unripe (green) plantain (Musa paradisiaca L) through five different ripening stages were determined. Crude fibre, ash, fat, crude protein and moisture contents were higher in the peels than in the pulps whereas carbohydrate and dry matter contents were higher in the pulps than in the peels at different stages of ripening. Potassium is the most abundant mineral in both samples with estimated values of 37 g kg−1 in the green peel and 8.4 g kg−1 in the green pulp. Small increases in potassium content were found in both samples during ripening. Iron, calcium and sodium show similar variations but phosphorus levels decrease as ripening progressed. The concentrations of copper and magnesium ions remained fairly constant. The estimated values for copper were 13 mg kg−1 and 10 mg kg−1 for the peels and pulps, respectively. However, the magnesium content in the pulp of 41 mg kg−1 was constant whereas that of the peel increased as the fruit ripened. The low sodium content (350 mg kg−1) is an advantage in the treatment or prevention of hypokalaemia.
Iron, copper, manganese and zinc content of some processed and fresh Greek citrus juices
Authors: Soulis Theodossios , Kavlentis Evangelos , Arvanitoyannis Ioannis
Published: October 2006

Iron, copper, manganese and zinc content in a number of processed and fresh Greek orange (Citrus sinensis var Valencia late), lemon (Citrus limon var maglini), grapefruit (Citrus paradisi var dunkan) and mandarin (Citrus deliciosa var mediterranea) juices was determined by atomic absorption spectroscopy. The values obtained were within limits similar to those for juices from other European countries and were (the values in parentheses are for fresh juices): orange Fe 0.23‐1.04 (0.23‐0.45), Cu 0.04‐0.29 (0.13‐0.23), Mn 0.05‐0.17 (0.7‐0.22), Zn 0.13‐0.43 (0.18‐0.77); lemon Fe 0.12‐1.05 (0.22‐0.66), Cu 0.04‐0.15 (0.13‐0.27), Mn 0.02‐0.07 (0.04‐0.17), Zn 0.11‐ 0.26 (0.27‐0.45); grapefruit Fe 0.11‐0.93 (0.45‐1.21), Cu 0.17‐0.42 (0.11‐ 0.37), Mn 0.04‐0.82 (0.12‐0.24), Zn 0.32‐0.81 (0.24‐0.46); mandarin Fe 0.45‐0.89, Cu 0.26‐0.53, Mn 0.04‐0.11, Zn 0.40‐0.71. The variability in the mineral content of some juices could be attributed to the variety and origin of the fruits or to differences in the method of processing.