bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of phosphorus source and soil moisture on the solubility of phosphorus
Authors: Gough Neville A. , Beaton J. D.
Published: November 2006

A laboratory study was conducted on two calcareous soils which had been previously cropped with lucerne. Equilibrium soil solutions were obtained from soil samples which were taken after the last harvest of lucerne. Monocalcium phosphate (1/2pCa + pH2PO4) and lime (pH — 1/2pCa) potentials and dicalcium phosphate potentials (pCaHPO4) were calculated from pH, Ca and P measurements in these solutions.

A plot of the lime and phosphate potentials on a solubility diagram showed that all the experimental values were near or above the solubility curve for dicalcium phosphate dihydrate. There was little difference between all phosphorus sources on the Machete soil, and between the treatments on the Nisconlith soil. Lime potentials of the two soils were similar. Phosphate potentials of the Machete soil were lower than those of the Nisconlith soil. The moisture regimes tested did not affect the lime and phosphate potentials of either soil.

Dicalcium phosphate potential of hydroxyapatite was significantly higher than for all the other sources on the Machete soil, and also that of monoammonium and monocalcium phosphate on the Nisconlith soil. The lowest pCaHPO4 values occurred with the Nisconlith soil. Moisture did not influence pCaHPO4 on either soil.
Aluminium in soils and plants on the coastlands of british guiana
Authors: Harris S. A.
Published: November 2006

Extractable aluminium (i.e., soluble in 0.5N‐acetic acid) has been determined in soils of the coastland of British Guiana and also the aluminium content of leaves of plants grown on them.

It is shown that extractable aluminium in the soils depended on their organic matter content, but is not related to the aluminium contents of the leaves of natural vegetation. The aluminium contents of leaves varied much between species and also between plants growing in different soils.
Soil potassium and the growth of vegetable seedlings
Authors: Haworth F. , Cleaver T. J.
Published: November 2006

The rate of growth and the potassium content of seedlings of carrot, lettuce and onion was greater on plets which had received applications of farmyard manure (FYM) than on those which had received only mineral fertilisers (including potassium sulphate at 150 Ib. of K per acre).

To find the reasons for these differences the effects of applications of potassium sulphate at rates of up to 800 lb. of K per acre on the availability of potassium in the soil, and on the growth and mineral composition of the seedlings, have been studied.

The exchangeable potassium content and the energy of exchange for the replacement of calcium with potassium (ΔF value) after application of 400 lb. of K per acre were similar to those in soil which had received FYM annually for 8 years.

Seedlings took up similar amounts of potassium whether the soil had received FYM or 400 lb. of K per acre. Growth of seedlings on the fertiliser‐treated soil was adversely affected when the rate was more than 200 lb. of K per acre. The interactions K/Ca and K/Mg are discussed in this connexion.

Fixation of added fertiliser‐K could explain the relatively poor growth response of crops at Wellesbourne to rates of application of fertiliser‐K of about 100 lb. of K per acre.

The need to maintain soil‐potassium reserves at a high level for vegetable growing is emphasised.
Isolation of endosperm protein and aleurone cell contents from wheat, and determination of their amino‐acid composition
Authors: Stevens D. J. , McDermott E. E. , Pace J.
Published: November 2006

The techniques of air classification, and differential centrifugation in non‐aqueous media, have been combined to isolate from flour (a) endosperm protein and (b) aleurone cell contents. The amino‐acid composition of the isolated protein has been determined and compared with that of the total protein complex in the parent flour. The results show that in the isolated protein fraction the proportion of the glutenin/gliadin group of proteins is higher than in the parent flour. This was observed in the material obtained from both a strong and a weak flour. It is suggested that this partial segregation occurs in the air classification process. The protein fractions isolated from the weak and strong flours were closely similar in their overall amino‐acid composition. The amino‐acid composition of the protein contained in the isolated aleurone cell contents has also been determined. The composition is quite different from that of the main endosperm proteins and resembles, in this respect, some of the soluble protein fractions which have been previously isolated from flour. A notable feature of the composition is a relatively high content of arginine.
Chemical composition of some natural and processed orange juices
Authors: Sawyer R.
Published: November 2006

The composition of juice from fresh oranges of a type used in the preparation of processed juice, is compared with that of prepared ‘pulp extracts’ and manufactured concentrates of varied origin. Some indication of the means of the detection of adulteration in trade concentrates from one particular growing area is given together with a basis for assessment of general quality.
Relationship between isotopically exchangeable calcium and absorption by plants
Authors: Newbould P.
Published: November 2006

When soils are suspended in solutions of calcium chloride labelled with radioactive tracer, isotopic exchange with the labile soil‐calcium occurs rapidly. This may be followed by a slow secondary exchange reaction, but its magnitude is not great and equilibrium is nearly, if not completely, attained within 7 days.

When, however, plants are grown in soil throughout which carrier‐free calcium‐45 (45Ca) has been thoroughly mixed, the 45Ca absorbed by the plants equilibrates with a quantity of soil‐calcium larger than that which undergoes isotopic exchange when soils are suspended in solutions of labelled calcium chloride. The analysis of plants grown for varying periods shows that equilibration can continue for several weeks, and that the quantity of soil‐calcium with which the 45Ca is associated can be increased by growing plants under ‘exhaustion’ conditions. In five soils, the ‘extra’ calcium which equilibrated with 45Ca in this way never exceeded 3.5% of the total soil‐calcium, and was usually considerably lower.

The continued equilibration of 45Ca with soil‐calcium causes the specific activity (45Ca/stable Ca) of the calcium entering plants to decrease. Because the calcium in plant roots has, on average, been absorbed more recently than that in shoots, the latter show higher specific activities.

The causes of these effects are discussed, and their significance in the interpretation of results of experiments which involve the use of 45Ca as a tracer in research work on soil/plant relations is considered.
Behaviour of carrier‐free phosphorus‐32 in natural soils in relation to the measurement of labile soil phosphorus
Authors: Gunary D.
Published: November 2006

The process of isotopic equilibration in perfused crumbs from five soils has been studied by following changes in the specific activity of the perfusates. The soils vary considerably in the times required for isotopic equilibrium with phosphate ions in the perfusate and in the penetration of labelled phosphate into the soil crumbs.

A 55% drop in isotopic dilution was brought about by a reduction from 23° to 3° of the temperature at which crumbs from one soil type were equilibrated in a static system. This temperature drop doubled the time required to achieve uniform distribution of 32P.

It is concluded that the rate of isotopic equilibration in pot experiments will be slow and may be limited in certain soils by the slow rate of redistribution on a micro scale of unevenly applied 32P.
Note on the availability of magnesium in basic slags
Authors: Heintze S. G.
Published: November 2006

Pot experiments, designed to measure effects produced solely by Mg, showed that two basic slags of similar Mg content and made by the same process differed in the extent to which the Mg was available to grass, and also in the yields of grass obtained, while a slag with much lower Mg content had negligible effect on yield on an acid soil and released no Mg to either acid or basic soil.

Additions of calcium carbonate or magnesium sulphate increased yields of grass from an acid, magnesium‐deficient soil containing little exchangeable Mg and each increased the uptake of Mg.

The amount of magnesium released when soils were incubated with slags agrees with results from pot experiments.
Phosphorus transformation in tejgaon clay soil, east pakistan, under different cultural practices
Authors: Khan D. H. , Chowdhury S. I.
Published: November 2006

The distribution of forms of phosphorus in an acid ferruginous soil after application of superphosphate is studied. Of the P2O5 added as superphosphate, 88% was retained by the soil 3 days after application. Most of the superphosphate added was converted into sesquioxide‐bound P2O5 and adsorbed P2O5. Liming the soil increased the Truog's sulphuric acid‐soluble P2O5 by about 10%. Adsorbed P2O5 (hydroxyl‐replaceable P2O5) rather than Truog's soluble P2O5 appeared to be utilised by the jute crop.
Relationship between the sulphur/nitrogen ratio and the protein value of diets
Authors: Miller D. S. , Donoso G.
Published: November 2006

Evidence is presented that the protein values of most human diets are limited by their content of the sulphur amino‐acids and a chemical method is proposed for the measurement of nutritive, value based on sulphur (S) and nitrogen (N) contents. It is shown that for practical purposes the protein scores of mixed diets are equal to 1000 S/N and thus net dietary‐protein values may be estimated for natural mixed diets by simple chemical procedures.
Isoflavone contents of red and subterranean clovers
Authors: Wong E.
Published: November 2006

The concentrations of the isoflavones biochanin A, genistein, formononetin, pratensein and daidzein in leaves of four varieties of red clover and two of subterranean clover have been measured by a paper chromatographic‐spectrophotometric method.

Biochanin A and formononetin are the predominant isoflavones in red clovers whereas biochanin A and genistein are the most abundant in subterranean clovers. For both species the isoflavone levels differed between varieties and between sampling dates. Higher levels were found during flowering for red clovers and before flowering for subterranean clovers.

The isoflavone contents have been calculated to have oestrogenic activity equivalent to 2–17 μg. of stilboestrol (% dry wt.) for the red clover samples and 22–48 μg. of stilboestrol (% dry wt.) for the subterranean clover samples. The potency of some of these samples is much higher than potencies previously reported in the literature.
The normal‐acid method for the determination of fibre in roughages
Authors: Griffith G. Ap , Jones D. I. H.
Published: November 2006

The normal‐acid method for the estimation of fibre in roughages by single acid digestion has been re‐examined. Increasing the time of digestion from 1 to 3 h. gives a marked improvement in the correlation with digestibility. Changes in technique are also introduced which make the method more attractive for routine use. The nitrogen content of the fibre residue is discussed.
Antioxidants in oats: Esters of phenolic acids
Authors: Daniels D. G. H. , King H. G. C. , Martin H. F.
Published: November 2006

Thin‐layer chromatography of the antioxidant previously isolated from oats has demonstrated that it contains at least 6 components, which have been partially separated by column chromatography. Alkaline hydrolysis of the mixed antioxidants yields caffeic acid 29%, ferulic acid 10% (both calculated as% acyl goups), glycerol 4.5%, and long‐chain hydroxyfatty acid 50%.
Responses of winter wheat to nitrogen and soil nitrogen status
Authors: Eagle D. J.
Published: November 2006

Nitrogen release values obtained by an incubation technique were closely correlated with yield responses of winter wheat to nitrogen on a wide range of soils over four seasons. On soils of low nitrogen status highest yields were obtained from early‐spring applications of nitrogen. On soils of high nitrogen status the highest yields were obtained from latespring applications of nitrogen.
Component glycerides of an indian fresh‐water fish fat
Authors: Pathak S. P. , Reddy B. R.
Published: November 2006

The glyceride structure of an Indian fresh‐water fish (Mystus seenghala) visceral fat has been investigated by fractional crystallisation of the neutral fat from acetone, light petroleum and ethyl ether. The composition of the fractions was examined by the lithium salt‐acetone and lead salt‐alcohol methods and by methyl ester distillation. The possible component glycerides computed therefrom is also given. The component glycerides are (i) 27.5% disaturated mono‐unsaturated, (ii) 61.8% mono‐saturated di‐unsaturated and (iii) 10.7% tri‐unsaturated. The glyceride composition of this fat does not conform with any of the glyceride theories.
Variation in zinc content and other properties of various porcine muscles
Authors: Cassens R. G. , Briskey E. J. , Hoekstra W. G.
Published: November 2006

Zinc content, myoglobin concentration and post‐mortem pH values of eight different porcine muscles of a wide range of functional activity and colour were found to vary greatly. On a fat‐free, dry‐weight basis, approximately a four‐fold difference was found in the zinc content of the various muscles. The darker coloured muscles, generally the most continually active, had the greatest zinc concentration, the greatest myoglobin concentration and the highest pH 24 h. post‐mortem. Over‐all correlations showed that 24‐h. pH and myoglobin were highly significantly related to zinc concentration when all muscles were considered, but within‐muscle correlations were low. Dietary zinc deficiency did not decrease the level of zinc in the muscles but caused some marked changes in the moisture and fat content of porcine muscle. The biochemical significance of the variation in zinc content of different muscles remains to be demonstrated.
Chemical studies on the herring (Clupea harengus). VII.—collaǵn and cohesiveness in heat‐processed herrinǵ, and observations on a seasonal variation in collaǵn content
Authors: Hughes R. B.
Published: November 2006

An attempt is made to correlate cohesiveness in heat‐processed herring with the degree of collagen breakdown as measured by gelatin production. A large increase in the collagen content of herring in early winter was observed.
Physico‐chemical studies of pesticides. III.—effect of soaps on the bioloǵical activity of DDT suspensions
Authors: O'Neill D. K. , Alexander A. E.
Published: November 2006

The effects of various synthetic soaps on the biological efficiency of a DDT/clay/lignin‐sulphonate suspension and of a colloidal DDT suspension have been examined by in vitro dipping experiments with flour beetles (Tribolium confusum Duval).

Additions of soap up to the c.m.c. (critical micellar concentration) decreased the toxicity in both types of suspension. This is attributed to adsorption of the soap on both DDT and cuticular surfaces, with consequent reduction in the probability of adhesion when DDT particles collide with the cuticular surface.

When the soap concentration was increased beyond the c.m.c., the toxicity of the DDT/clay/ligninsulphonate suspension remained unchanged, whilst the toxicity of the colloidal DDT suspension increased. Crystal growth of DDT in the colloidal suspension was observed above the c.m.c. and is considered to be the cause of the increased toxicity. The soap micelles did not dissolve sufficient DDT to influence toxicity directly, but were responsible for crystal growth. With the DDT/clay/ligninsulphonate suspension, crystal growth of the DDT protected by clay and ligninsulphonate appeared to be too slow to produce similar effects.

Toxicity and deposit appeared to be closely related and were influenced by the duration and degree of agitation during dipping, indicating that deposition of DDT on the cuticle did not attain equilibrium. Liquid retention appeared to be a function of surface tension. Affinity between DDT and insect cuticle is ascribed to the hydrophobic nature of both surfaces.
Tannins and polyphenols in carob pods (Ceratonia siliqua)
Authors: Nachtomi Edna , Alumot Eugenia
Published: November 2006

Separation of condensed tannins from sugars and low‐molecular weight polyphenols was achieved by cold‐water extraction of carob pod meal. The condensed tannins were isolated by subsequent hot‐water extraction of the meal and analysed by permanganate titration, alkaline hydrolysis and fusion, paper chromatography, reactions for the presence of leuco‐anthocyanins and catechins. They were not soluble in commonly used tannin solvents. Although the presence of leuco‐anthocyanins and flavanols was shown by general reactions, no monomeric substances of this group were detected in ripe carobs. Extracts from green carobs contained several catechins and leuco‐anthocyanins, that may be regarded as possible precursors of condensed tannins.

Gallic acid was the main constituent of the low‐molecular weight fraction obtained from ripe carobs and which was soluble in organic solvents.
Aseptic autolysis in rabbit and bovine muscle during storage at 37°
Authors: Sharp J. G.
Published: November 2006

The changes in a number of protein fractions in rabbit and bovine muscle have been observed during aseptic storage at 37°. Continuous breakdown of protein took place with formation of TCA‐soluble non‐protein N, the rates being 20.7 μmoles and 10.3 μmoles N/g./day for rabbit and beef respectively. No change was detected in the solubility of the collagen fraction over 6 months' storage. The fine structure of the myofibrils remained apparently unchanged during this period and the main autolytic effect of the cathepsins present would appear to be concentrated on the sarcoplasmic proteins. The degree of disintegration of muscle structure caused by homogenisation under standard conditions was much greater in muscle held for 30 days at 5° than in muscle after the same period at 37°.
Vegetable oils. XI.—the component acids of torresea cearensis seed oil
Authors: Badami R. C. , Gunstone F. D.
Published: November 2006

Torresea cearensis oil contains the following acids: saturated, C10 (0.5%), C12 (0.5%), C14 (0.5%), C16 (11.5%), C18 (3.5%), C20 (3.0%), C22 (4.0%) and C24 (2.5%); mono‐ethenoid, C16 (4.0%), C18 (60.0%) and C20 (3.5%); diethenoid, C18 (6.5%).
Substantivity of pyrethrins I and II to cattle skin and hair: Behaviour of pyrethrins in a cattle spray race
Authors: Goldberg A. A. , Smith H. J.
Published: November 2006

Laboratory experiments have shown that the pyrethrins are substantive to cattle skin and hair. When cattle are passed through a spray race, the concentration of pyrethrins in the circulation liquor decreases. The adsorption rate constant has been calculated for standard conditions and an equation derived for calculation of the concentration after passage of cattle through the spray race. The use of this equation in veterinary practice is discussed.
The composition of Pachyrrhizus erosus (yam bean) seed oil
Authors: Broadbent J. H. , Shone G.
Published: November 2006

The fatty acid composition of the oil has been examined by gas‐liquid chromatography and found to contain 26.7% of palmitic, 5.7% of stearic, 33.4% of oleic and 34.2% of linoleic acids. The unsaponifiable matter of the oil, which contains 55% of digitonide‐forming sterols, has been separated by thin‐layer chromatography into six components, two of which give positive Liebermann‐Burchard and one positive Emmerie‐Engel tests.
A comparison of freeze‐dried beef muscles of high or low ultimate pH
Authors: Penny I. F. , Voyle C. A. , Lawrie R. A.
Published: November 2006

Some of the deleterious effects of freeze‐drying on the texture of beef have been obviated by using muscles with a high ultimate pH. Pre‐slaughter injection of adrenaline raised the ultimate pH to 6.7. After freeze‐drying the treated beef was more tender, more juicy and less woody than controls at pH 5.6. A resultant increase in water‐holding capacity and rehydratability was demonstrated by myofibrillar swelling and increased fibre diameter. Dehydrated beef with a high ultimate pH showed less deterioration during storage at 37° in the attributes texture, flavour and colour.
The effects on birds of certain chlorinated insecticides used as seed dressings
Authors: Turtle E. E. , Taylor A. , Wright E. N. , Thearle R. J. P. , Egan H. , Evans W. H. , Soutar N. M.
Published: November 2006

In England during the spring, commencing in the year 1956, numbers of deaths occurred amongst wild birds and the insecticides used to dress cereal seeds were suspected.

Pigeons were fed with dieldrin, aldrin, heptachlor and y‐BHC and the toxicities and residues in flesh and organs measured. Following this, birds from the field were examined during the 1960/61 sowing season. The results of analyses support the view that dieldrin, aldrin and heptachlor had been mainly responsible for the deaths. An ecological section includes an explanation for the predominance of casualties in the spring time.
Fumigation of pyramidal stacks of bagged decorticated groundnuts with methyl bromide
Authors: Halliday D. , Prevett P. F.
Published: November 2006

An experiment to determine the distribution of methyl bromide gas in a pyramid‐shaped stack of bagged decorticated groundnuts in Kano, Nigeria, is described. It was considered that, in view of the poor distribution of gas observed, a pyramid‐shaped stack is probably unsuitable for a fumigation in which injection of the gas at a single point is used.
Calcium metabolism and the laying hen
Authors: Taylor T. G.
Published: November 2006

The rate at which calcium is removed from the blood during egg shell formation (100–150 mg./h.) is greater than the mean rate of calcium absorption from the food, and the balance is made good by mobilisation of skeletal reserves. The phosphorus liberated simultaneously is largely excreted in the urine.

Occasionally the skeletons of laying birds suffer excessive depletion resulting in an osteoporotic condition accompanied by paralysis. Experiments suggest that this condition, known as ‘layers' cramp’, is caused by a failure of a physiological mechanism whereby the rate of gonadotrophin secretion by the anterior pituitary is reduced when skeletal depletion becomes excessive.
Experiments on cumulative dressings of fertilisers on calcareous soils in South‐West England. II.—phosphorus uptake by ryegrass in the greenhouse
Authors: Mattingly G. E. G. , Russell R. D. , Jephcott B. M.
Published: November 2006

The P status of the calcareous soils described by Russell1 was evaluated in two greenhouse experiments using ryegrass as a test crop. Soils were arranged by yields into very responsive, moderately responsive and slightly responsive groups and mean values for all methods of soil analysis1 increased in the same order. P uptake by ryegrass, 40 days after sowing, from soils given superphosphate for 5 to 7 years in the field correlated most closely (r = 0.990–0.959) with 0.5m‐sodium bicarbonate‐soluble P and least closely (r = 0.822–0.697) with 1% citric acid‐soluble P.

P uptake during the first weeks of growth depended partly on the monocalcium phosphate potential measured on soils before cropping, whereas total P uptake in 4 months was closely correlated (r = 0.979) with the labile P the soils contained but was almost independent of the initial phosphate potential. The soils from different experiments differed more in the total quantity of P in the labile pool than in their capacity, defined as the change in the chemical potential of monocalcium phosphate per unit change in total labile P. Ammonium sulphate applied at 3 cwt. per acre for 5 years in the field to Lulsgate series soils significantly increased P soluble in 0.01m‐calcium chloride and 0.5m‐sodium bicarbonate, labile P, yield and P uptake in the greenhouse.
Studies in beef quality. II.—the influence of sire on the quality and composition of beef
Authors: Jones K. Bryce , Houston T. W. , Harries J. M.
Published: November 2006

Rib‐joints from Hereford‐Friesian steers from five selected Hereford bulls have been compared by taste panel and laboratory analysis. The steers were raised at two farms.

Significant differences were found between sire groups in tenderness, flavour and juiciness. There was also a farm influence on tenderness.

Two sire groups were identified as receiving higher valuations for flavour, juiciness and tenderness than one of the other three sire groups. The preferred groups were from the smallest sires and had more marbling fat at the preselected arbitrary slaughter weight. The quality difference due to farms was not associated with marbling fat. Rate of growth was slower on the farm yielding the more tender meat.

The iodine values for fat samples showed statistically significant differences between some sire groups, but not between the two farms.
Some effects of gamma‐irradiation on barley and its malting properties
Authors: Tipples K. H. , Norris F. W.
Published: November 2006

Irradiation of barley above and below disinfestation levels (16,000 rads) was carried out to study the effects of irradiation and post‐irradiation storage on malting properties.

Maltose figures and free β‐amylase of raw barley increased at low irradiation levels. Respiration rate and rootlet production decreased slightly with increasing irradiation, while malts produced from barley irradiated below 100,000 rads showed little change in α‐ and β‐amylase and in proteinase activities. The effects on micro‐ and pilot‐scale malted barley were sometimes in sharp contrast.

Growth of barley seedlings demonstrated that unevenness caused by irradiation was more marked in the plumules than in the roots. Plant height, but not root length, showed the ‘reversal effect’.

Standard analyses of pilot‐scale malts indicated a slight degree of undermodification after irradiation. Technological implications of the irradiation process for disinfestation are discussed.
The phenolic substances of manufactured tea. X.—the creaming down of tea liquors
Authors: Roberts E. A. H.
Published: November 2006

The formation of a deposit, known in the tea trade as tea ‘cream’, when a black tea infusion ‘creams down’ on cooling is used by professional tea tasters as an indication of strength and briskness in the infusion. This ‘cream’ is essentially a complex of caffeine with theaflavins and thearubigins (polyphenol oxidation products that have been identified in soluble constituents of black tea). The amount and composition of the ‘cream’ formed depends on the composition of the tea and the strength of the infusion. A precipitate containing the same constituents as tea ‘cream’ is formed when 1% by volume of conc, sulphuric acid is added to a tea infusion, and the amount of polyphenolic material in this precipitate—estimated by titration with alkaline permanganate (‘cream index’)—provides a measure of the ability of a tea infusion to cream down. Support has been obtained for the view that ‘briskness’ in a tea infusion, which is negatively correlated with the ‘cream index’, is due to a caffeine theaflavin complex. The colour of the cream, which may vary from orange to brown, is determined by the ratio of thearubigins to theaflavins. A visual assessment of the amount and colour of the cream formed in a tea infusion by a tea taster is therefore in effect a judgment of the amounts and relative proportions of theaflavins, thearubigins and caffeine in the tea, as an indication of the qualities of the tea.
Determination of mercury in soil
Authors: Pickard J. A. , Martin J. T.
Published: November 2006

An analytical procedure for the determination of mercury in soil is described. After the digestion of organic matter, the mercury is removed from the soil by distillation in hydrochloric acid gas, extracted from the distillate with dithizone and measured spectro‐photometrically.
A method of measuring the temperature of food in cans during processing
Authors: Hoare P. A. , Warrington E.
Published: November 2006

This paper describes a means of obtaining direct temperature records of food in cans while being rotated during processing. The modified pilot steriliser is equipped with simple thermocouples connected to a recorder mounted upon a turntable, itself turned synchronously with the can carriers. By this means continuous records of temperatures inside the cans may be obtained even though the cans are rotating. This machine has been used successfully in investigation work on milk products. An example of the results obtained by this means is included.
Leaf analysis as a guide to the nutrition of fruit crops. III.—preparation and storaǵe of leaf samples prior to analysis
Authors: Bradfield E. G. , Bould C.
Published: November 2006

A study has been made of the errors involved in the washing, drying, grinding and storage, prior to analysis, of leaf material from strawberry, black currant and apple. On the basis of the results obtained, recommendations are made for the minimisation of these errors.
Symbiotic variation of rhizobium trifolii with S.100 nomark white clover (Trifolium repens L.)
Authors: Jones D. Gareth
Published: November 2006

The symbiotic effectiveness of 134 isolates of Rhizobium trifolii was investigated with S.Ioo Nomark as the tester variety; 70 were from sites of over 1000 ft. and 64 from lower elevations. The variation in mean time of primary nodulation for each isolate ranged from 5–6 to 13.9 days after inoculation. There was no significant difference between mountain and lowland isolates, and this factor was not correlated with the eventual growth of the plants. Mean nodule number per isolate varied from 4.4 to 29.5 and this was negatively correlated with symbiotic effectiveness as measured by visual grades of growth.

Approximately 60% of the isolates from mountain soils were either ineffective or intermediate, compared with 33% of the lowland isolates. Bacterial strain variation is discussed in comparison with variation due to the host genotype.
Sorption and desorption in raw and parboiled paddy
Authors: Craufurd R. Q.
Published: November 2006

Experiments on the drying and remoistening of raw and parboiled paddy are described. The different effects of remoistening with water or water vapour are discussed and also the effects of fast and slow drying.

The absorption of liquid water causes cracking of the grain up to 15% moisture content. Above 15% there is no further cracking. On absorption, the drier the paddy the greater is the degree of cracking.

Slow drying does not cause cracking but fast drying does so when the moisture content is below 15%. With fast drying, cracking is not only caused when passing the 15% point but also when drying, e.g., from 13.0 to 12.0% moisture content.

The importance of temperature in causing cracking is discussed.

Parboiled paddy dries faster than raw paddy, because the husk is more loosely attached in the former; raw dehusked paddy and parboiled dehusked paddy dry at approximately the same rate.

These results are discussed in relation to work on other starchy seeds and particularly to Fish's recent work on sorption and desorption in potato starch.

It is suggested that the changes observed in paddy can be related to the peculiar properties of starch which obtain below 15% moisture content.
Immunological comparison of cereal proteins
Authors: Elton G. A. H. , Ewart J. A. D.
Published: November 2006

A rabbit antiserum against Manitoba No. 2 gluten has been used to compare protein extracts of cereal flours. Five American, a mixture of Canadian, and one English, varieties of Triticum vulgare, and a mixture of Canadian varieties of Triticum durum, appear to share at least four immunologically similar gluten proteins. Rye contains at least three of these and also a minor gluten constituent. Barley, maize and oat extracts also react with the serum but to a much lesser extent, suggesting that most of their proteins have little structural relationship to those of wheat and rye gluten. It is further suggested that the poor baking quality of barley, maize and oat is probably due to lack of proteins of the required structure. This explanation does not appear to apply to variations in rheological properties among wheats because there seem to be close structural similarities in four proteins, presumably major gluten constituents. There is evidence that minor variations may occur in wheat protein composition.
Germination of dried barley after prolonged storage when treated with sulphuric acid
Authors: Caldwell F.
Published: November 2006

After prolonged storage, samples of dry undamaged Proctor barley were found to suffer some reduction of germination after treatment with acid. This indicated some change in permeability of the testa.

Acid treatment continued to differentiate between harvest treatments, the effects of moisture content of the grain at harvest, cylinder speed and concave clearance being reflected in germination after treatment with acid.
Amino‐acid supplementation of a barley ration for the pig
Authors: Robinson D. W. , Lewis D.
Published: November 2006

A group of pigs were fed a series of diets based on high‐nitrogen barley, supplemented with pure amino‐acids. They were compared with a control group fed a conventional ration of cereals supplemented with fishmeal and soya‐bean meal. Although the grower rations all contained 16.4% of crude protein, the rate of growth and efficiency of food utilisation of pigs fed only barley and a supplement of vitamins and minerals was poor. Addition of L‐lysine and DL‐methionine improved the performance and a further supplementation with DL‐tryptophan, DL‐isoleucine and DL‐threonine resulted in an improvement in performance to equal that of control pigs. The advantages in terms of carcass quality due to the supplementation of amino‐acids was even more pronounced than the growth response.
Decomposition of leguminous plant roots in sand. I.—transformation of nitrogen compounds
Authors: Myskow W. , Morrison R. I.
Published: November 2006

The rates of biological decomposition and transformation of nitrogen compounds, especially free and combined amino‐acids, in roots of yellow lupin (Lupinus luteus) and white melilot (Melilotus alba) in washed‐sand culture were studied.

Most of the free amino‐acids in the sand‐root mixtures were broken down early in the experiment, but the amounts of certain free amino‐acids and of free glucosamine increased at times in both series.

The composition of the combined amino‐acid hydrolysate of the melilot material at the end of the experiment differed noticeably from that at the beginning; the difference was smaller in the lupin material.

The insoluble organic nitrogen content of the sand‐lupin root mixture changed little during the experimental period, but it decreased rapidly in the sand‐melilot root mixture.

As organic nitrogen compounds were mineralised, ammonia was liberated and nitrogen lost. At the end of the experiment this loss was 64% with melilot roots but only 9% with lupin roots. In the experiment with melilot roots nitrification started at 10 days, and with lupin roots at 2 months.
Determination of nitrate in fermentation media by a modification of the nitron method
Authors: Rae A. C. , Hall A. N.
Published: November 2006

A method is described which is suitable for the determination of nitrate in complex culture media. Nitrate is first precipitated as nitron nitrate and the precipitate reduced to ammonia by Devarda's alloy. The ammonia is distilled and determined colorimetrically by means of Nessler's reagent. Recoveries are in the range 98–102% for amounts of nitrate between 0.1 and 1.0 mg. per ml. of solution.
Vegetable oils. XIII.—the component acids of isano (boleko) oil
Authors: Badami R. C. , Gunstone F. D.
Published: November 2006

Isano oil contains saturated acids (6%), oleic acid (14%), linoleic acid (5%), five C18 acetylenic acids (51%), four 8‐hydroxy‐C18 acetylenic acids (22%), and 9,10‐dihydroxy‐stearic acid (2%).
Chemical studies on the herring (Clupea harengus). VIII.—further observations on the production of carbonyls in heat‐processed herring
Authors: Hughes R. B.
Published: November 2006

More of the carbonyls produced when herring are heat‐processed have been tentatively identified. The effect of various factors on the production of certain carbonyls in herring processed in glass and in cans has been studied. Changes occurring in canned herring during storage have been followed.
Effect on performance of a supplement comprised largely of glandular tissue (hormonexa) in the diet of rats, rabbits and chicks
Authors: Wood W. A. , Worden A. N.
Published: November 2006

The response to a proprietary supplement, comprising largely animal glandular tissue, in terms of weight gain and food utilisation was variable; in certain instances performance of male rats, but not of females, was improved.

It is considered that this variation in response may have been associated with variations in composition of the basal diets or of the supplement itself. It appeared that an improvement in performance was most likely to occur when the supplement was included in diets which did not support a normal growth rate. This was so particularly with a broiler ‘starter’ ration, supplementation of which significantly improved subnormal weight gain and food conversion of chicks.

In a limited number of experiments it was found that the material did not contain measurable oestrogenic activity; it had no effect on reproductive ability of rats although there was some indication that reproductive ability of rabbits was improved.
The chemistry of edible rhubarb
Authors: Blundstone H. A. W. , Dickinson D.
Published: November 2006

A plan of investigations into the chemical composition of rhubarb is described. Illustrations show the severe action which this product has on tinplate, and this is of great importance to the canning industry. The determination of the acid constituents of a number of varieties of rhubarb has shown that there is only a limited number of acids present and that all varieties contain the same major acids. There are differences in the concentrations of the acids according to season and age of growth. Oxalic acid appears to accumulate, probably as calcium and magnesium salts.
Mercury residues in potatoes following application of a foliar spray containing phenylmercury chloride
Authors: Smart N. A.
Published: November 2006

A fungicide containing phenylmercury chloride (o.6% w/w mercury) and copper oxychloride was sprayed on to potato foliage at the normal rate of 3 lb. formulated wettable powder/100 gal./acre. Four and eight applications were made at 7–10‐day intervals although it is normal practice in this country to make not more than four applications. In the flesh of potatoes 0.02 p.p.m. of mercury was found half‐way through the growing season after four applications and 0.03 p.p.m. at the end of the growing season, whether four or eight sprays had been put on. Similar residues were found in the peel. Unsprayed controls contained less than 0.005 p.p.m. of mercury. Potatoes grown on ground where phenylmercury chloride had been sprayed the previous year were not contaminated. Pot experiments suggested that traces of mercury compounds can be both translocated from the foliage and taken up from soil into tubers.
Effects of microwave radiation on wheat and flour : The viscosity of the flour pastes
Authors: Edwards G. H.
Published: November 2006

Microwave energy has been used to inactivate the amylase and destroy the gluten‐forming properties of the protein of wheat and flour. The water absorption of flour was considerably increased by microwave treatment; severe treatment yielded flour that gave paste of unexpectedly high viscosity.
Behaviour of components of an ethylene dibromide‐methyl bromide mixture during fumigation of flour
Authors: Heuser S. G.
Published: November 2006

The behaviour of the separate components of a mixture of ethylene dibromide and methyl bromide was studied during the experimental fumigation of a bag of flour. The rates of penetration of the individual fumigants through columns of flour were also compared. The results obtained are discussed in relation to claims which have been made for the improved efficiency of such mixtures over methyl bromide alone for fumigating milled cereals, with particular reference to the relative amounts of residual bromide likely to be produced.
Health status of sisal plants (Agave sisalana) as related to soils and the mineral composition of their leaves
Authors: Muller A.
Published: November 2006

Leaf samples from healthy and diseased sisal plants and the corresponding topsoil samples were analysed. The results show that K deficiency is the main cause of ‘banding disease’, whereas manganese is probably involved in ‘purple leaf tip roll’.

For healthy growth, the important factors are good content of organic matter, pH 6–7 and a well balanced uptake of nutrients with no excess of one or more elements.
A note on the effects of some soil sterilants on the mineralisation and nitrification of soil‐nitrogen
Authors: Gasser J. K. R. , Peachey J. E.
Published: November 2006

Dazomet, D‐D, metham‐sodium, and methyl isothiocyanate were applied to seven glasshouse and four field soils; methyl bromide was applied to two of the field soils. In both the glasshouse and field, all sterilants retarded nitrification of ammonium‐N, and in some soils they increased the mineralisation of soil organic‐N; dazomet had most effect and metham‐sodium least. In field soils, methyl bromide increased the mineralisation of soil organic‐N more than the other sterilants.
Long‐term storage of wheat
Authors: Pixton S. W. , Hyde Mary B. , Ayerst G.
Published: November 2006

A study is being made of changes in wheat stored up to 10–12 years under conditions such as might be used for long‐term commercial storage. Changes in as many characteristics of the grain as possible are measured. The effects of low temperature and low oxygen concentration, singly and together, on the changes occurring during storage are being studied.

The present paper describes the methods used to detect the small changes which occurred in grain stored under the above conditions for 4 years.
Decomposition of leguminous plant roots in sand. II.—humus formation
Authors: Myskow W. , Morrison R. I.
Published: November 2006

Humus substances formed during the decomposition of the root material of yellow lupin and white melilot in sand were isolated and examined and compared with corresponding fractions from a garden soil. Depending on their origin, the humus substances differed in their content of carbohydrate, protein, lignin‐like compounds, and also methoxyl groups. Humic acid fractions from lupin and melilot material seemed less far removed from plant material than that from garden soil. Fulvic acid fractions in comparison with humic acid fractions contained more carbohydrate, less nitrogen and no lignin‐like material. Phenolic acids and aldehydes related to lignin were found in the sand‐root mixtures in greatest amount at 20 and 30 days' incubation. Melilotic acid, a product of coumarin metabolism, was found in melilot root material only during the first 10 days of incubation.

The composition of the combined amino‐acids in lupin and melilot humic acids fractions was similar to, but differed somewhat from, that of garden soil humic acid. The fulvic acid fractions contained relatively more glucosamine than the humic acid fractions. The presence of glucosamine, αϵ‐diaminopimelic acid and α‐aminoadipic acid in the fractions indicated that their nitrogen was partly of microbial origin.
The concentration of dimefox in air resulting from its use on hops
Authors: Lloyd G. A. , Tweddle J. C.
Published: November 2006

The atmospheric concentration of dimefox in hop gardens in the immediate vicinity of the filling tank was determined while dilution of the concentrate was being carried out, and during the application of the diluted wash to the soil.

An agricultural worker in the immediate vicinity of the tank might inhale on an average 0.1 mg. of dimefox in an 8‐h. day and, during application of the diluted wash to the soil in a hop garden, an average of 1.2 mg. of dimefox per day. No cases of poisoning due to the inhalation hazard have been reported in the United Kingdom, presumably because application of dimefox to hops is limited to short periods only during the summer.
Chemical and microbiological surveys on the effects of dithiocarbamate fungicides on wine‐making
Authors: Cantarelli C. , Tafuri F. , Martini A.
Published: November 2006

The hygienic and technical problems which arise in production of wine from grapes treated with zineb have been examined in experiments carried out under conventional conditions and in small‐scale wine‐making processes.

Yeast can develop and ferment even in the presence of relatively large amounts of zineb (up to 500 p.p.m.), the fungicide itself causing some increase in the rate of fermentation.

Yeast appears to absorb zineb and to utilise it (as well as other forms of sulphur commonly used to treat wines) and to produce hydrogen sulphide and mercaptans, the fermentation balance being substantially unmodified.

In practical conditions the treatment with zineb spray does not appear to influence the composition of natural yeast flora of grapes.

The amount of residues recovered on treated grapes is very low (less than I p.p.m.). After the grapes have been crushed these residues are found in the must and at the end of fermentation the main part is collected in the lees after decantation of the wine, and they are recovered unmodified.

Hydrogen sulphide, carbon disulphide and mercaptans are produced proportionally to the dose of zineb present in the must. The real influence of the traces of this fungicide on the composition and on the flavour of wine appears to be negligible.
Variations in the composition of apple leaves and the errors associated with sampling
Authors: Moon F. E. , Hymas Gillian K.
Published: November 2006

Intensive leaf sampling of two Cox apple trees was used to study factors affecting yield of leaf dry matter and the nitrogen and mineral contents of the dry matter. Significant differences were found between main branches of the same tree, between different heights of sampling and between non‐fruiting spur leaves on old wood and leaves on new extension growths. Leaf position on new extension growths also affected composition and there were some significant interactions between the main factors. The significance of the results in relation to routine sampling methods is discussed and the need for further sampling investigations emphasised.
Determination of organic acids in silage by silica gel chromatography
Authors: Wilson R. F. , Tilley J. M. A.
Published: November 2006

A method is described for the separation of butyric, propionic, acetic, formic, succinic and lactic acids from silage extracts by chromatography on columns of silica gel eluted with mixtures of benzene and n‐butanol. Separated acids were estimated by titration with barium hydroxide solution. The method has been applied to silages made from pure species of herbages at different stages of growth and receiving different treatments before ensilage.

Lactic acid concentrations up to 11.5% of the dry matter were recorded, giving rise to low pH values. Butyric acid concentrations of up to 5% raised the pH and under these conditions only small amounts of lactic acid were present; propionic acid concentrations rose to 1–2% in some cases and trace amounts of formic acid could be detected. Acetic acid was present in all silages at concentrations of up to 7% of the dry matter, and appeared to fall off as the nitrogen content of the crop decreased. As the herbage matured, the total acid concentration of the silage decreased.