Evaluation of methods for the quantification of ether extract contents in forage and cattle feces

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to compare the estimates of ether extract (EE) contents obtained by the Randall method and by the high-temperature method of the American Oil Chemist's Society (AOCS; Am 5-04) in forages (n = 20) and cattle feces (n = 15). The EE contents were quantified by using the Randall extraction or AOCS method and XT4 filter bags or cartridges made of qualitative filter paper (80 g/m²) as containers for the samples. It was also evaluated the loss of particles, and concentration of residual chlorophyll after extraction and the recovery of protein and minerals in the material subjected to extraction. Significant interaction was observed between extraction method and material for EE contents. The EE estimates using the AOCS method were higher, mainly in forages. No loss of particles was observed with different containers. The chlorophyll contents in the residues of cattle feces were not affected by the extraction method; however, residual chlorophyll was lower using the AOCS method in forages. There was complete recovery of the protein and ash after extraction. The results suggest that AOCS method produces higher estimates of EE contents in forages and cattle feces, possibly by providing greater extraction of non-fatty EE.

Effect of salt stress on different components of Glycyrrhiza uralensis / 中草药

Objective: To investigate the effect of salt stress at different concentrations on the accumulative contents of glycyrrhizic acid and five components and their correlations. Methods: Annual Glycyrrhiza uralensis cultivated in the plastic flowerpot was treated with salt at different concentrations (3, 6, and 9 mg/mL). The contents of glycyrrhizic acid, total sugar, crude protein, crude fiber, crude fat and ash were determined after 35, 70, and 105 d treatment. The proportional relationships of five components and the correlation of glycyrrhizinic acid and five components were analyzed. Results: On 70 d after the treatment of 6 and 9 mg/mL salt solution, the glycyrrhizic acid content was extremely higher than that in control group. Crude protein in the treatment groups of 6 and 9 mg/mL salt solution increased significantly compared with that in control group. While total sugar content decreased significantly compared with that in control group. On 105 d, crude fat content in the treatment group of 9 mg/mL salt solution was extremely higher than that in control group. And on 70 and 105 d, the crude fat proportion in the treatment group of 9 mg/mL salt solution was extremely higher than that in control group, while the total sugar proportion was extremely lower than that in control group. The correlation analysis showed that glycyrrhizic acid content had a positive correlation with the content of crude fat and ash, while had a negative correlation with total sugar on 70 and 105 d. Conclusion: The accumulation of glycyrrhizic acid is closely related to proportion of crude protein, total sugar , crude fat and ash content. The proper salt stress could stimulate sugar metabolisms and accelerate the decomposition of the substance. All of these could promote the secondary metabolism and make the formation and accumulation of glycyrrhizic acid.