Search

Abstract Brazil has emerged as the world's largest producer of annatto seeds (Bixa orellana L.). Fortunately, the increase in national production has been accompanied by an improvement in the quality of this raw material. Annatto is a typical crop of small producers who usually use their empirical knowledge to evaluate the quality of the crop. Thefore, the visual observation of the color of annatto seeds has been considered a quality standard by many producers. To evaluate the scientific evidence, the present study evaluated annatto seeds from 51 accessions of the germplasm bank of the Agronomic Institute (Instituto Agronômico de Campinas - IAC) to determine a possible correlation between the pigment’s contents and the color of annatto seeds as well as the influence of humidity on this correlation. The correlations between the concentrations of pigments, humidity, lipids, and color (L*, a*, b*) were also evaluated. The color was evaluated using a colorimeter with measurements of the CIE L*, a*, b* scale. Only the correlation between the variables moisture and lipids was considered strong through the simple correlation, while the variables bixin content and coordinate a* presented a significant correlation while eliminating the effect of moisture (partial correlation). Thus, a correlation between the red color and the bixin concentration of annatto seeds was observed even though it was a weak correlation. In turn, the color difference (ΔEab) between the samples with higher and lower bixin contents was only 1.44. This difference indicates that large variations in the bixin concentrations may lead to small color changes in the annatto seeds, impairing the use of this criterion for quality control of these seeds.

This study aimed to evaluate the quality of Tanzania grass (Panicum maximum) haylage with varying contents of dry matter (DM) and stored for 90 days. The quality of this grass was evaluated through the lens of a variety of physiochemical properties (e.g., chemical composition, aerobic stability, pH, microbial profile, etc.). A completely randomized design was used with four treatments (in natura, 400, 500, and 600 g kg-1 DM) and five replicates. Treatment with 600 g kg-1 DM yielded the highest DM haylage (p < 0.01) and soluble carbohydrate content (p < 0.01). Treatment in natura resulted in the highest O2 concentration inside the bales (p < 0.01), whereas treatments with 500 and 600 g kg-1 DM resulted in the highest CO2 values. The highest acetic acid concentrations of 36.4 ± 1.6, 38.2±1.6, and 48.9 ± 1.6 g kg-1 DM (p < 0.01) were observed post the in natura, 500 g kg-1 DM, and 600 g kg-1 DM treatments, respectively. Treatment with 600 g kg-1 DM yielded the highest pH value at hour zero (p < 0.01). Tanzania grass with 500 and 600 g kg-1 DM produced the highest quality haylage. Highlights: • Haylage can be defined as stored pre-dried forage with a dry matter (DM) content of approximately 400 to 800 g/kg. • Aerobic stability was affected by the interaction between the different plant DM contents and hours of exposure of the Tanzania grass haylage to air after opening the bales. • Haylage surface temperature has a linear relationship with the length of time the materials are exposed to air. • Higher plant DM yields Tanzania grass haylage of high quality. • Tanzania grass with 500 and 600 g kg-1 DM for haylage production is indicated.

La caracterización de la distribución de la humedad en el suelo situado bajo los edificios es de la máxima importancia para describir su funcionamiento y tiene una gran influencia en patologías criticas como son los asientos diferenciales. El elevado coste y la dificultad de acceder al suelo situado bajo los edificios hace que los ejemplos de monitorización de la distribución del contenido de humedad no sean numerosos. En este trabajo, se presenta un caso práctico de toma de datos para el estudio de las variables impuestas por el medio ambiente (precipitaciones, humedad, temperatura, nivel freático) de cara la caracterización de la respuesta estructural esperada y al mantenimiento preventivo de la edificación. Los resultados obtenidos han puesto de manifiesto el interés de la metodología, ilustrando su capacidad para caracterizar la distribución real del contenido de humedad bajo las edificaciones, con procedimientos muy sencillos que pueden adaptarse fácilmente a nuestros edificios y que pueden servir de herramientas para un mantenimiento preventivo, en un contexto donde se esperan grandes variaciones en el régimen de humedad de los suelos por los efectos del cambio climático. Abstract The characterization of the distribution of humidity in the soil located under the buildings is of the utmost importance to describe their operation and has a great influence on critical pathologies such as differential settlements. The high cost and the difficulty of accessing the ground under buildings means that the examples of monitoring the distribution of moisture content are not numerous. In this work, a practical case of data collection is presented for the study of the variables imposed by the environment (rainfall, humidity, temperature, water table) in order to characterize the expected structural response and preventive maintenance of the building. . The results obtained have shown the interest of the methodology, illustrating its ability to characterize the real distribution of moisture content under buildings, with very simple procedures that can be easily adapted to our buildings and that can serve as tools for preventive maintenance , in a context where large variations in the soil moisture regime are expected due to the effects of climate change.

ABSTRACT Elephant grass silages have high moisture content, causing nutrient loss, mainly by effluent production. The use of moisture absorbent additives, such as patauá, Oenocarpus bataua meal, can be a strategy to reduce losses in these silages. The aim of this study was to determine the fermentation losses, microbiological composition, fermentative characteristics, and chemical composition of elephant grass silage with increasing levels of inclusion of patauá meal. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design, with four concentrations of patauá meal (7%, 14%, 21%, and 28%, based on fresh matter) and a control without patauá, and five replicates. The elephant grass was collected manually after 60 days of growth. After chopping, the grass was homogenized, mixed with the patauá meal according to the established treatments, and ensiled in experimental silos of 15 L. The inclusion of patauá meal in elephant grass silage had positive effects on the chemical composition and effluent loss. It significantly increased dry matter, organic matter, crude protein, nitrogen insoluble in neutral detergent and acid, ethereal extract, lignin, and non-fibrous carbohydrates of the silages. It also reduced effluent losses, neutral and acid detergent fiber contents, and cellulose. Our findings contribute towards reducing the environmental impact caused by the production of effluents during ensilage of tropical grasses and providing a potential use for the residue from the production of patauá oil, thus avoiding disposal in the environment.

Physical properties are major characteristics that validate biomaterials' adaptability to commercial utilization. The moisture content, density, swelling, and shrinkage within male and female Borassus aethiopum were assessed. Green and dry moisture content, and density were tested with the oven-dry method while swelling and shrinkage were evaluated using the water-saturation test and oven-dry methods respectively. Unlike moisture content, density decreased towards the crowns and radially from the peripheries to their cores. Directional swelling decreased as: Radial > Tangential > Longitudinal. Volumetric swelling was greatest at the core of the base (6,99 %) but at least at the periphery within the middle of the male (2,89 %). However, the female recorded much swelling at the core of its mid-portion (6,23 %) and least (4,01 %) at the crown periphery. Directional shrinkage decreased identically as the male variety while the volumetric shrinkage for both varieties was not consistent. The peripheries had less moisture content, better dimensional stability and density (which influences wood strength) at the butt than those of the core indicating the peripheries would maintain its original dimension and strength when subjected to environmental changes and be more viable for structural works than the core.

In this preliminary study, two non-filtered virgin olive oils (one freshly produced VOO-N; one VOO-O stored for one year) were subjected to moisture removal with mineral clay (raw or activated) and analyses were performed to attest possible effects on the quality of the product. The results demonstrated that the treatment of oil with mineral clay at 36-38 °C had no negative effect on the basic quality parameters or on the volatile comound profile. On the other hand, a significant decrease in the water amount as well as in pigments was observed in the samples subjected to this kind of treatment, in particular with raw clay. Regarding the colour measurement, the lightness (L) as well as the consumers’ acceptability exhibited a marked increase when oils were treated with raw clay.

Abstract The classification and selection of agricultural products are very important to assure post-harvest quality processes. However, most of physical and chemical analyses are destructive. It means those products turn useless after these analyses. Moisture is one of the most important parameters to assure the storage quality and as well to facilitate product processing. This research offers an alternative method to determine that parameter through an indirect and non-destructive way, using the image analysis based on the Biospeckle phenomenon. This method consists in get a 10 seconds video of a laser focused on the object. This video is divided in frames, using a computational routine in Matlab and, then, the sequence of images is processed using the computational program named ImageJ. The results are expressed in terms of modified correlation matrix and Moment of Inertia (MI). At the same time, a moisture analysis is carried out using the traditional methodology employing conventional heater equipment set at 130 ºC. By correlating MI and moisture values, it was possible to determine the moisture content by means of an indirect method. To this research, it was employed grains of Moringa oleifera.

ABSTRACT: Agriculture has sought ways to increase food production to meet global demands, intensifying dependence on natural resources. An alternative for intensive production has relied on the use of “smart” fertilizers that release nutrients in a controlled manner. Biodegradable polymers containing fertilizers has presented economic and environmental advantages when applied to the soil, as they release water and nutrients gradually to the environment without leaving residues. The objective of this study was to monitor the behavior of chitosan-clay hybrid microspheres, used as potassium nitrate soil ferti-releaser in lettuce cultivation. The experiment consisted of two treatments: (i) application of ferti-releasing chitosan-clay microspheres and (ii) use of conventional fertilization. Both treatments were monitored with TDR probes to measure electrical conductivity and soil moisture. The results indicate that both moisture and electrical conductivity are higher in soils treated with the ferti-releasing material. In addition, there was a gradual and homogenous release if compared to the conventional fertilization. The statistical analysis showed that the microspheres were efficient mainly for the controlled nitrogen release.

La moringa (Moringa oleifera Lam.), recientemente introdu cida en el departamento de Córdoba - Colombia, es sembrada para forraje, alimento y medicina en humanos. Su semilla es almacenada en diferentes tipos de recipientes, bajo condiciones oscilatorias de temperatura y de humedad relativa, que influyen en la germinación, el vigor y la calidad de plántulas. El objetivo fue evaluar la calidad fisiológica de la semilla en diferentes tipos de envases, en ambientes controlados y al ambiente local, durante un año de almacenamiento. Se utilizó el diseño experimental completamente al azar, con cinco tratamientos: i) en nevera y envase de aluminio, a 7°C y 77,0% de humedad relativa (H.R.); ii) en nevera y envase de plástico, a 7°C y 77,0% H.R.; iii) en cuarto frío y envase de aluminio, a 6°C y 70% H.R.; iv) en cuarto frío y envase de plástico, a 6°C y 70% H.R. y v) sin refrigeración, en envase de vidrio, a temperatura media de 28°C y H.R. promedio de 74%. Se usaron semillas de árboles de la región. Mensualmente, se evaluó el porcentaje de germinación, el índice de velocidad de germinación, el contenido de humedad, la altura de plántula y el número de foliolos. La semilla de moringa, almacenada bajo condiciones ambientales del valle del Sinú, pierde su calidad fisiológica en 150 días, por los efectos de las altas temperaturas y fluctuaciones de humedad, que causan su deterioro. El almacenamiento bajo refrigeración, en envase de plástico o aluminio, permite conservar su potencial fisiológico, hasta por 360 días.

Analysis of honey produced in the western part of Turkey was carried out in this study. Fifty honey samples, collected from the local market in this region were analyzed for their physicochemical parameters including hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF), electrical conductivity, sucrose, free acidity, moisture and water insoluble impurities, in addition to pathogenic microorganisms present. HMF amounts determined in 47 samples were found to be between 1.9 and 98.0 mg/kg with good reproducibilities (%RSD: 3.2% or better). There were no pathogenic microorganisms in any of the investigated samples. Electrical conductivity that gives information about their mineral contents was measured, and the mean value was found to be 0.33 mS/cm (N=34). In general, most of the samples were considered to meet the requirements of Turkish Food Codex and European Commission Directives.

The selection of an appropriate aggregate structure is a key step during mix design since this directly affects mix performance and the amount of asphalt in the mix. During conventional batching procedures, the aggregates are dried and sieved into different sizes only to be recombined later into the appropriate proportions to reproduce the design gradation. This type of procedure can produce gradations with substantially larger percent passing the sieve No.200 relative to the target gradation. This paper explores the effects that fines adhered to larger particles have on the batch gradation, the resulting optimum binder content and dust proportion. An improved batching procedure that corrects for fines adhered to larger particles and trapped moisture is presented in detail and shown to replicate the target design gradation more closely. The optimum asphalt content was determined by means of the Superpave® design method for both, a gradation batched conventionally and a gradation batched with the suggested corrected procedure. The results show that the optimum asphalt content and volumetrics obtained in both cases are substantially different. The procedure developed for the fines correction is recommended for routine batching in order to minimize the inclusion of additional fines that can potentially affect the performance characteristics of the mix.

In this work it was explored the use of near infrared reflectance spectroscopy (NIRS) to determine the sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonate and moisture in powder detergent. Calibrations equations were obtained by applying partial least squares regression due to the presence of the spectral interferences. Matrix effect was verified. Accuracy and precision of this method is acceptable, indicating that the NIRS methods can be applicable for determining moisture and sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonate in powder detergent.

Royal jelly is a creamy substance produced by young nurse worker bees, which has a color that ranges from white to slightly yellow, and is secreted by the hypopharingeal and mandibular glands of the bees. The objective of this work was to assess the in vitro antioxidant potential of royal jelly while in storage. The physical-chemical parameters analyzed were moisture, ascorbic acid and total phenolic content. Alcohol extracts were made and used to evaluate the 1.1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity. The ascorbic acid (to 0.75 from 1.31mg.100g-1wet base) and total phenolic content (to 14.26 from 28.30mg GAE.100g-1 wet base) of the royal jelly were low. The percentages of DPPH discoloration of the samples were above 50%, except for the samples stored for 90 days. Considering the reduced ascorbic acid and total phenolic content, and the low alcohol DPPH scavenging activity of the samples, it can be concluded that royal jelly presents relatively low antioxidant potential. The storage time did not determine the changes found.

El consumo cada vez más creciente de pasabocas ha estimulado la búsqueda de procesos para mejorar su calidad. En este estudio se evaluó el comportamiento de los parámetros de calidad de un pasabocas frito hecho con mango (Manguifera indica L.), utilizando vacío sobre una pasta elaborada con ese fruto. El proceso de fritura se realizó aplicando diferentes presiones de vacío (0.4, 0.5, 0.6 bar), temperaturas (100, 110 y 120 °C) y tiempos (30, 45, 60, 75 y 90 seg). Los resultados mostraron que el vacío mejora las características de calidad del producto ya que los contenidos de grasa y humedad fueron muy bajos, la actividad de agua fue menor, la textura fue adecuada para las exigencias del mercado y el color presentó cambios muy pequeños en relación con los de la pasta. El mejor tratamiento fue 0.5 bar de presión, 110 °C de temperatura y 90 seg de inmersión.The latest trends in consumption of snacks, have led to the search for processes that enhance the quality of snack. The aim of this study was to observe the behavior of quality parameters of a fried snack made from mango (Manguifera indica L.), using vacuum on a base of mango pulp and starch, in their preparation. The frying process was carried out using different vacuum pressures (0.4, 0.5, 0.6 bar), temperatures (100, 110 and 120 °C) and times (30, 45, 60, 75 and 90s.) The results showed that the vacuum improves the quality characteristics of the snacks, finding a fat and very low humidity contents, lower water activity, and texture, according to market products and a small color variation with respect to paste color. The best treatment was to 0.5 bar, 110 °C y 90s of immersion time.

The feasibility of portable near infrared spectroscopy (NIR) technology for the determination of oil and moisture contents in intact olive fruits was studied. A total of 144 and 112 samples were collected throughout the ripening period in two different olive cultivar trials. Spectral data were recorded in the wavelength region from 1100 to 2300 nm at 1 nm intervals under two different experimental conditions: on-tree in the field in Trial 1 and under laboratory room conditions in Trial 2. Calibration models were developed and evaluated using partial least squares (PLS) regression separately for each trial set and for the combined group of samples. Although slightly better results were obtained under laboratory room conditions, the results obtained on-tree in the field were also accurate enough to determine the optimal harvest date of each cultivar. The combined model showed predictive statistics within the range of the individual models (r=0.89 and RMSECV= 1.99 for oil content and r=0.88 and RMSECV=2.06 for moisture content), which could be considered acceptable as an increase in the model robustness could be expected. These results encourage the use of portable NIR spectroscopy to monitor olive fruit ripening and to decide the optimal harvesting date on the basis of oil and moisture content.

The objectives of this research were to determine physico-chemical characteristics of 1,758 Apis mellifera L. honey samples produced by in the productive pole of Picos, state of Piauí, to understand, based on these characteristics, how they are grouped and to determine the percentage of honey that fit the specifications determined by Brazilian legislation. Thirty-five honey samples were collected directly from beekeepers for determination of total sugars, reducing sugars, apparent sucrose, humidity, diastase activity, hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF), protein, ash, pH, acidity, formol index, electrical conductivity, viscosity and color. Mean values of each one of the analyzed physico-chemical parameters are within the limits established by the current Brazilian legislation, but it was verified for apparent sacarosis, diastase activity and HMF, values different from the established ones. Protein and HMF were the traits that contributed most for group formation.

This research work is based on the application of sampling techniques to optimize industrial processes. The paper industry purchases large quantities of recycled paper, which must undergo a quality control based on the determination of two variables: the weig ht and moisture content of the raw material. The latter is a decisive factor in paying to ea ch supplier,for this work is to establish a procedure to determine an optima/ estimator of the moisture content of recycled paper that comes in a transport medium to the yards of consumption of a paper industry, so that you can assign a value to pay that does not harm either the company or the supplier. In research, it was on a set of historical data and quality standards, and developing a process based on the sample analysis to obtain an estimate of the moisture associated with all the paper contained in that conveyance. Significantly, the results of this procedure, yield percentages of 98.32% acceptance with respect to the actual value, compared with 63.48% of the traditionally applied method.

MACER, S.L, in collaboration with the Institute of Ceramic Technology, has developed a comprehensive control system of the pressing operation called CALIBREUNICO® which keeps constant in time the bulk density of all the ceramic pieces shaped in an industrial press. The CALIBREUNICO® system consists of two subsystems that permit one hand, balance the variations in moisture spray-dried powder by the continuous regulation in real time of the pressure moulding and, secondly, regulate the load individually in each of the holes of the press with de purpose of equalling the bulk density of all pieces obtained in the same press cycle. CALIBREUNICO®, ensuring the constancy of bulk density of all pieces processed, guarantees a single piece size and the minimization of the production problems associated with variability in bulk density of the pieces.MACER, S.L., en colaboración con el Instituto de Tecnología Cerámica, ha desarrollado un sistema de control integral de la operación de prensado denominado CALIBREUNICO® que permite mantener constante en el tiempo la densidad aparente de todas las piezas cerámicas conformadas en una prensa industrial. El sistema CALIBREUNICO® está constituido por dos subsistemas complementarios que permiten, por un lado, compensar las variaciones de humedad del polvo atomizado mediante la regulación continua y en tiempo real de la presión de prensado y, por otro lado, regular la carga individualizada en cada uno de los alvéolos de la prensa con el fin de igualar la densidad aparente de todas las piezas obtenidas en un mismo ciclo de prensado. CALIBREUNICO®, al asegurar la constancia de la densidad aparente de todas las piezas procesadas, garantiza un único tamaño de pieza y la minimización de los problemas de producción asociados a la variabilidad de la densidad aparente de los soportes

This experimental work was aimed to study the moisture content, total lipids and fatty acid profile in the liver of wild and farmed freshwater major carp Catla catla of three different weight categories designated as W1 (601-900g), W2 (901- 1200)g and W3 (1201-1500g). Seven fish specimens of each of the three weight categories of wild and farmed Catla catla were obtained from Trimu Head, Jhang and Fish Hatchery, Satiana Road and Faisalabad, respectively. The fish were dissected to remove the liver and after weighing, liver samples were prepared and subjected to chemical analysis. Wild Catla catla liver had a significantly (p < 0.05) higher moisture content as compared to the farmed species. Farmed Catla catla deposited significantly (p < 0.05) higher lipid contents in liver. Proportions of saturated fatty acids varied irregularly in the lipids of the liver from both wild and farmed Catla catla. Saturated fatty acids C12:0, C14:0, C16:0, C18:0, C20:0 and C22:0 were identified with considerable percentages in the liver of Catla catla from both habitats and monounsaturated fatty acid C18:1 was found in considerable amounts in the liver of both major carp. Polyunsaturated fatty acids such as C18:3 (n-6) and C20: 2 (n-6) were detected in the liver of the wild fish of W2 and W3 and was similar in the W3 weight category of the farmed species.

The effect of surface properties on the quality of the adhesion was evaluated for coated particleboards. Uncoated UF- and TF-bonded particleboards made using different raw materials were conditioned under 20°C and 65 % relative humidity and coated with a nitrocellulose lacquer primer by a conventional process. The interaction between the primer and surface seems to be a very important factor determining the strength of adherence.Las propiedades de la superficie y su efecto en la calidad de la adhesion fueron evaluadas en tableros pintados. Tableros de partículas sin recubrir encolados con resinas UF y TF hechos utilizando diferentes materias primas fueron acondicionados a clima 20°C and 65 % de humedad relativa fueron pintados con un aparejo nitrocelulósico mediante un proceso convencional. La interacción entre el aparejo y la superficie parece ser un importante factor que determina la fuerza de la adherencia.

This study aimed to evaluate the moisture levels and protein in the heart, gizzard and liver chicken giblets in slaughterhouses industry (SI) located in the middle west of Santa Catarina’s state. Were made samples in two slaughterhouses, SI1 with chickens weighing 1100 g and SI2 with chickens weighing 2800 g, for chicken gibletsin physiological state on slaughter and, immersion chilling output. The total were made 120 samples and realizedduplicate tests of moisture and protein and calculated moisture versus protein relation of chicken giblets inphysiological state after chilling. Results indicates that the highest levels of water absorptions versus protein werefound in the heart, on average 5.63% for samples collected in SI1 and 5.49% in SI2. The lowest level was found inthe liver, with 3.86 for samples collected in SI1 and 3.85 in SI2, while the level in the gizzard was 4.86 and 4.71,respectively. Therefore, the study indicates that chickens gizzard weighing 2.800 g have lower levels of moisturecompared to chickens gizzard of 1.100 g. ANOVA and linear regression between SI complete the study.

In this work, the prediction of olive fruit and virgin olive oil quality parameters through the direct measuring of the fruit using near infrared spectrometry (NIRS) has been investigated and the effectiveness of a portable spectrometer has been assessed. Models and calibration tests were developed using both the hexane-isopropanol extraction of individual olive fruits, and the Soxhlet extraction of olive paste. The parameters analyzed were the free acidity in olive oil, oil yield from physical extraction, oil content referring to fresh weight, oil content referring to dry matter and fruit moisture. The results indicate a good predictive potential with both methodologies and serve to encourage improvement in the obtained models through the enlargement of the calibrations. Fruit moisture prediction models showed high accuracy.

The article discusses the effect of the assumptions about moisture content on the design of ventilated façades with porous natural stone cladding. Moisture is shown to impact cladding strength and condition its dimensions. For this reason the performance of such façades when exposed to water should be analyzed more fully than specified in EN standards. An example is given of how to conduct such an analysis, along with guidelines for choosing a moisture content value that correctly reflects the absorption levels attainable in such façades. This value is then used to determine panel mechanical strength. Application of the method to three sandstones from Northeastern Spain showed the utility of the type of analysis proposed.

Moisture is one of the most powerful causes of decay of historic buildings. A lack of understanding concerning the action of moisture and the resulting degradation mechanisms are often preventing efficient repair of ancient walls. Thus, there is a need to develop and systematise a methodology of diagnosis of defects due to moisture, taking into account the characteristics and properties of materials used on those walls. The use of in situ test methods, especially non-invasive methods, is an important tool, but those methods must be adapted to this particular use, calibrated and interrelated in a global approach. As a result of a Research Project developed at LNEC a methodology involving several phases is proposed, based on tests applied to several case studies and on the analysis of their results. This work synthesises the proposed methodology presenting examples of data combinations for the suggested techniques and its interpretation in order to characterise the state of conservation of renderings and to estimate their performance.

We investigate palm species distribution, richness and abundance along the Mokoti, a seasonally-dry river of southeastern Amazon and compare it to the patterns observed at a large scale, comprising the entire Brazilian territory. A total of 694 palms belonging to 10 species were sampled at the Mokoti River basin. Although the species showed diverse distribution patterns, we found that local palm abundance, richness and tree basal area were significantly higher from the hills to the bottomlands of the study region, revealing a positive association of these measures with moisture. The analyses at the larger spatial scale also showed a strong influence of vapor pressure (a measure of moisture content of the air, in turn modulated by temperature) and seasonality in temperature: the richest regions were those where temperature and humidity were simultaneously high, and which also presented a lower degree of seasonality in temperature. These results indicate that the distribution of palms seems to be strongly associated with climatic variables, supporting the idea that, by 'putting all the eggs in one basket' (a consequence of survival depending on the preservation of a single irreplaceable bud), palms have become vulnerable to extreme environmental conditions. Hence, their distribution is concentrated in those tropical and sub-tropical regions with constant conditions of (mild to high) temperature and moisture all year round.Investigamos a distribuição, riqueza e abundância de espécies de palmeiras ao longo do Rio Mokoti, um rio sazonalmente seco do sudoeste da Amazônia, comparando posteriormente os resultados com os padrões observados em uma escala espacial mais ampla, englobando a totalidade do território brasileiro. Um total de 694 palmeiras pertencentes a 10 espécies foi amostrado na bacia do Rio Mokoti. Apesar das espécies terem mostrado padrões de distribuição diversos, a abundância e riqueza de palmeiras, além da área basal das árvores, foram significativamente superiores nas baixadas do que nas serras da região estudada, revelando uma forte influência de umidade sobre estes parâmetros. A análise englobando a escala espacial mais ampla também mostrou uma forte influência de pressão de vapor (uma medida de umidade do ar, modulada por temperatura) e sazonalidade sobre a temperatura: as regiões cuja riqueza de palmeiras foi mais alta foram aquelas onde a temperatura e a umidade foram simultaneamente altas, e que apresentaram menor sazonalidade na temperatura. Estes resultados indicam que a distribuição de palmeiras parece estar fortemente associada a fatores climáticos, apoiando a idéia de que ao adotar uma estratégia em que "todos os ovos são colocados em uma mesma cesta" (conseqüência da sobrevivência depender da preservação de um único broto insubstituível), as palmeiras tornaram-se vulneráveis a condições ambientais extremas. Desta forma, estas têm sua distribuição concentrada naquelas regiões tropicais e subtropicais com condições constantes tanto de temperatura (amenas a altas) como de umidade ao longo do ano.

La rugosidad superficial es primariamente una función de las propiedades de la materia prima, pero otros factores como la cantidad y el tipo de resina, ciclo de prensado, lijado y contenido de humedad de los tableros pueden afectar la rugosidad y otras propiedades de la superficie. En este estudio los efectos del contenido de humedad de equilibro en superficies de tableros de densidad media (MDF), fueron evaluados usando diferentes materias primas en sus superficies como también diferentes adhesivos. El análisis estadístico confirma que la relación entre el contenido de humedad de equilibrio y la rugosidad media es una compleja función de interacciones entre muchas variables, pero donde tiene un papel relevante desde el punto de vista práctico el tipo de adhesivosThe surface roughness is primarily a function of the raw material properties, but other factors like type and amount of resin, press cycle, sanding and moisture content of the boards may also affect the roughness and other surface properties. In this study the effect of the equilibrium moisture content on medium density fiberboards (MDF) surfaces was evaluate using different raw materials in their surface layers as well as different binders. The statistical analysis confirmed that the relationship between equilibrium moisture content and average roughness are a complex function of interactions between many variables

Objetivou-se com este trabalho avaliar o efeito da simulação da prenhez (introdução de 100 esferas de chumbo no útero - CHU) e da ovariectomia (retirada dos ovários - OVA) sobre as características físico-químicas da carcaça e da carne de novilhas. Foram utilizadas 19 novilhas mestiças (½ Nelore x ½ Red Angus), com 18 meses de idade e peso médio inicial de 257,8 kg, terminadas em confinamento recebendo uma dieta à base de silagem de milho (41%) e farelo de soja e milho (59%). O peso vivo ao abate, sem diferença entre tratamentos, foi de 324,1; 323,3 e 303,0 kg para as novilhas dos tratamentos VAZ, CHU e OVA, respectivamente. Da mesma forma, não houve diferença entre tratamentos para peso de carcaça quente (171,1 kg), comprimento de carcaça (113,8 cm), comprimento de perna (68,2 cm), espessura do coxão (21,0 cm), área de olho-de-lombo (57,3 cm²), espessura de gordura de cobertura (4,0 mm), proporções de músculo (62,6%), osso (16,0%) e gordura (21,7%), relação músculo/osso (3,9), relação músculo + gordura (porção comestível)/osso (5,3), perdas por cocção (24,3%), perdas do congelamento à cocção (30,9%), maciez (7,1 pontos), suculência (6,6 pontos) e palatabilidade (6,6 pontos). Os parâmetros cor, textura e marmoreio também não diferiram entre os tratamentos, apresentando, respectivamente, 4,0; 4,4 e 3,7 pontos. Não houve diferença significativa para os teores de cinzas (1,1%) e PB (21,8%) e para as concentrações de extrato etéreo total (2,9%) e colesterol (49,6 mg/100g) do músculo Longissimus dorsi. Portanto, a ocorrência do estro não alterou as características analisadas.This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of pregnancy simulation (placement of 100 lead spheres in the uterus-LEAD) and ovariectomy (OVAE) on traits of carcass and meat of heifers finished in feedlot. Animals not pregnant and with intact ovary were used as the control (CTRL). Nineteen crossbred heifers (½ Nelore x ½ Red Angus) averaging 18 months of age and 257.8 kg of body weight were used. Animals were fed a diet containing (% DM): 41% of corn silage and 59% of soybean meal, corn, and trace minerals. No significant differences were observed for slaughter weight, which averaged 324.1, 323.3, and 303.3 kg, respectively, for CTRL, LEAD, and OVAE treatments. Similarly, there were no significant differences among treatments for the following variables: hot carcass weight (171.1 kg), carcass length (113.8 cm), hind limb length (68.2 cm), cushion thickness (21.0 cm), loin eye area (57.3 cm²), fat thickness (4.0 mm), percentages of muscle (62.6%), bone (16.0%), and fat (21.7%), muscle/fat ratio (3.9), muscle plus fat/bone ratio (5.3), cooking losses (24.3%), freezing to cooking losses (30.9%), tenderness (7.1 points), juiciness (6.6 points), and flavor (6.6 points). The color, texture, and marbling parameters also did not differ averaging 4.0, 4.4, and 3.7 points, respectively, among treatments. In addition, no significant differences were found to contents of ash (1.1%), crude protein (21.8%), total fat (2.9%), and cholesterol (49.6mg/100g) in the Longissimus dorsi muscle. Thus, it can be concluded that estrus did not affect carcass characteristics.

La rugosidad superficial es primariamente una función de las propiedades de la materia prima, pero otros factores como la cantidad y el tipo de resina, ciclo de prensado, lijado y contenido de humedad de los tableros pueden afectar la rugosidad y otras propiedades de la superficie. En este estudio los efectos del contenido de humedad de equilibro en superficies de tableros de densidad media (MDF), fueron evaluados usando diferentes materias primas en sus superficies como también diferentes adhesivos. El análisis estadístico confirma que la relación entre el contenido de humedad de equilibrio y la rugosidad media es una compleja función de interacciones entre muchas variables, pero donde tiene un papel relevante desde el punto de vista practico el tipo de adhesivos. Abstract The surface roughness is primarily a function of the raw material properties, but other factors like type and amount of resin, press cycle, sanding and moisture content of the boards may also affect the roughness and other surface properties. In this study the effect of the equilibrium moisture content on medium density fiberboards (MDF) surfaces was evaluate using different raw materials in their surface layers as well as different binders. The statistical analysis confirmed that the relationship between equilibrium moisture content and average roughness are a complex function of interactions between many variables.

Las propiedades de la superficie y su efecto en la calidad de la adhesion fueron evaluadas en tableros pintados. Tableros de partículas sin recubrir encolados con resinas UF y TF hechos utilizando diferentes materias primas fueron acondicionados a clima 20°C and 65 % de humedad relativa fueron pintados con un aparejo nitrocelulósico mediante un proceso convencional. La interacción entre el aparejo y la superficie parece ser un importante factor que determina la fuerza de la adherencia. Abstract The effect of surface properties on the quality of the adhesion was evaluated for coated particleboards. Uncoated UF- and TF-bonded particleboards made using different raw materials were conditioned under 20°C and 65 % relative humidity and coated with a nitrocellulose lacquer primer by a conventional process. The interaction between the primer and surface seems to be a very important factor determining the strength of adherence.

Conduziu-se este trabalho com o objetivo de avaliar os efeitos de diferentes níveis de compactação e manejos de água sobre os componentes de produção e a produtividade de grãos de arroz. O experimento foi conduzido no período de setembro de 2002 a janeiro de 2003 em casa- de-vegetação na UFLA, em Lavras-MG, onde se testou seis níveis de compactação do solo: 0%, 16%, 32%, 48%, 64% e 80% da amplitude de variação da densidade do solo (0,25 kg dm-3), combinado com três teores de água no solo: solo saturado (M1), irrigado quando eram consumidos de 25 a 30% (M2) e de 50 a 60% (M3) da água disponível, respectivamente. Os resultados evidenciam que a compactação do solo tende a reduzir o número de panícula por vaso, a esterilidade de espiguetas e a produtividade de grãos. Em níveis moderados de compactação, houve aumento do número de grãos cheios por panícula, considerando os três manejo de água. A umidade favoreceu os componentes de produção: o número de panículas por vaso, o número de grãos cheio por panícula e a esterilidade de grãos, contribuindo para o aumento da produtividade. Assim, conclui-se que a umidade do solo foi mais determinante que a compactação como fator limitante para a produção de grãos e, que, para o Neossolo Flúvico, a compactação per si não é fator limitante a uma possível adoção do sistema de plantio direto com arroz em várzeas.The work aimed at evaluating the effect of different compaction levels and water management upon yield components and rice grain yield. The experiment was conducted over the period of September 2002 to January 2003 in a greenhouse at the UFLA university, in Lavras- MG, where as tested six compaction levels: 0%, 16%, 32%, 48%, 64% and 80% of the range of variation of soil density (0.25kg.dm-3), combined with three soil water contents: saturated soil (M1), irrigated when were consumed from 25 to 30% (M2) and from 50 to 60% (M3) of available water, respectively. The results stressed that soil compaction tends to reduce the number os panicles per pot, sterility of spikelets and grain yield. At moderate compaction levels, there was an increase of the number of filled grain per panicle, taking into account the three water management. Moisture favored production components: the number of panicles per pot, the number of filled grain per panicle and spikelet sterility, contributing toward increased yield. Thus, it follows that soil moisture was more determinant than compaction as a limiting factor to grain yield and, that, for Fluvic Neosol, compaction per si is not a factor limiting to a possible adoption of the no-tillage system with lowland rice.

Com o presente trabalho objetivou-se avaliar os efeitos de seis níveis de compactação, associados a diferentes manejos de água, sobre a absorção de nitrogênio (N), fósforo (P) e potássio (K), o desenvolvimento do sistema radicular e parte aérea de plantas de arroz. O experimento foi conduzido no período de setembro de 2002 a janeiro de 2003 em casa- de-vegetação da UFLA, em Lavras-MG. Testou-se seis níveis de compactação do solo: 0%, 16%, 32%, 48%, 64% e 80% da amplitude de variação da densidade do solo (0,25 kg dm-3), combinado com três teores de água no solo: solo saturado, irrigado quando eram consumidos de 25% a 30% e de 50% a 60% da água disponível, respectivamente. O manejo com maior disponibilidade de água no solo favoreceu as médias dos teores de P e de K na parte aérea das plantas, a produção de massa seca da raiz, o número de perfilhos por vaso e a massa seca da parte aérea das plantas de arroz, independentemente dos níveis de compactação do solo. Por outro lado, a compactação do solo diminuiu as médias de todas características avaliadas, independentemente do manejo de água. Entretanto, o manejo de água teve efeito mais limitante sobre a absorção dos nutrientes e a produção de massa seca da parte aérea das plantas do que a compactação do solo.The present work had as objective to evaluate the effects six compaction levels, associated with different water managements upon uptake of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K), the development of root and shoot of rice plants. The experiment was conducted during the period of September 2002 to January 2003 in a greenhouse at UFLA university, in Lavras- MG. Six compaction levels were tested: 0%, 16%, 32%, 48%, 64% and 80% in a range of variation of soil density (0.25 kg dm-3), combined with three soil water contents: saturated soil, irrigated when were consumed from 25% to 30% and from 50% to 60% of available water, respectively. The management with the greatest soil water availability favored the average of P and K contents in the shoot of the plants, root dry matter yield, number of tillers per pot and dry matter of the shoot of rice plant, regardless of soil compaction levels. On the other hand, soil compaction decreased the averages of all the characteristics evaluated, regardless water management. Nevertheless, water management had the most limiting effect on the uptake of nutrients and shoot dry matter of the plants than soil compaction.

The suitability of two analytical techniques ( viz. near infrared spectroscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy) for the determination of moisture and fat content of olives and pomace was determined. The results obtained from the two techniques were similar in terms of accuracy and precision to those provided by the official method, which is based on Soxhlet extraction. On the other hand, the proposed methods involve less intensive sample handling, use reagents and solvents more sparingly and are faster than the official method. This allows for their adoption as standard laboratory methods for the determination of analytical parameters in both olives and pomace.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the potential use of Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) for the analysis of oil content, moisture and fatty acids composition in intact olive fruit. A total of 287 samples, each from a single plant from an olive breeding program, were scanned by NIRS between 400 and 1700 nm. Partial least squares (PLS) regression was used to create calibration models (with 70 % of samples) relating laboratory reference values to spectral data (original, first and second derivative spectral data). The best equations obtained were validated (with 30% of samples) showing values of r2 of 0.88 % for the moisture, 0.83 % for oil content, 0.77 % for oleic acid content and 0.81 % for linoleic acid content. Therefore a reliable and accurate preselection can be made by using NIRS for both oil content and oleic acid content, with a nondestructive analysis, in a few seconds and without use neither production of chemical reagents.

O experimento foi conduzido com o objetivo de avaliar os efeitos dos níveis de umidade na colheita e da temperatura de secagem do milho sobre sua composição química e valores de energia metabolizável aparente corrigida para retenção de nitrogênio (EMAn) para frangos de corte. O milho foi colhido com 35; 25; 18; 15,3 e 14,3% de umidade e submetido à secagem a 100ºC; 70ºC e 40ºC de temperatura. Os valores de 15,3 e 14,3% de umidade de colheita do grão não foram submetidos à secagem, sendo o último valor referente ao tratamento que permaneceu na lavoura por 60 dias (milho pós-colheita). A composição química foi determinada segundo AOAC (1995) e a EMAn pelo método de coleta total de excretas, conforme descrito por Hill e Anderson (1958) e fórmulas de Matterson et al. (1965). Quando considerados os valores de EMAn expressos na matéria natural, verificaram-se diferenças significativas entre o milho sem secagem (15,3% de umidade) e os demais tratamentos. A diferença com o valor mais alto obtido de EMAn, nesse caso, foi de 11,8% (2864 vs 3247 kcal/kg). Isso se deve ao fato de o grão colhido com 15,3% de umidade ter atingido valores próximos a 24%, possivelmente devido a um processo de reidratação. Quando considerados os valores de EMAn com base na matéria seca, não houve diferenças entre os tratamentos. O valor nutritivo do milho colhido sob distintos níveis de umidade e submetido à secagem sob diferentes temperaturas permaneceu dentro dos valores padrão tabelados.The experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of moisture levels at harvest and drying temperatures of corn on its chemical composition and apparent metabolizable energy corrected to zero nitrogen retention (AMEn) to broiler chickens. The corn was harvested with 35%, 25%, 18%, 15.3% and 14.3% of moisture and submitted to drying temperatures of 100, 70 and 40 ºC. The moisture levels of 15.3% and 14.3% of corn were not submitted to drying and the last value represented the treatment post-harvesting (60 days after the first harvest). The chemical composition was determined by AOAC (1995) and AMEn assay was carried out by total collection procedure as described by Hill and Anderson (1958) and methodology of Matterson et al. (1965). When the AMEn values were considered on as fed basis, significant differences occured between the treatment of corn no drying and the others. The mean AMEn value was 11.8% less in energy (2864kcal/kg) relative to the highest value (3247kcal/kg).This is due to grain humidity having reached 24% on that treatment caused by natural grain natural re-hydration. When the energy values of corn were changed to dry-matter basis, there were no differences among the treatments. There were no major changes in nutritive value of corn harvested with different moisture levels and submitted to various drying temperatures, compared to expected standards, except the AMEn value (as fed basis) when the corn was no drying.

This paper presents an experimental analysis of the stone behaviour in contact with water in the different construction uses. In any of these cases is analyse how the water penetrates into the material. As a result of the study the need of modification of the UNE test standards is concluded. It is proposed a procedure to determinate the material's properties and a method to compare and analyse the result obtained that keep into consideration the climate factors. The method have been applied to sandstone of Villamayor (Spain) showing its utility in the analysis of the stone properties.

The moisture diffusion in molding mixtures employing in foundry processes is described. Using gravimetric techniques the humectation kinetic behavior of different types of molding mixtures for foundry cores were registered. The mixture higroscopicity is compared using the porcentual increase in wet mass. The kinetic study is ending with the calculations effective coefficients of diffusion of the atmospheric water in the mixtures to different bleakness. For this goal the fitting through non lineal methods was used. The influences of the agglutinative and draw materials in the hygroscope properties of these were analyzed too.Se describe la difusión de humedad en mezclas de moldeo utilizadas en los procesos de fundición. Empleando técnicas gravimétricas se registra el comportamiento de la cinética de humectación de diferentes tipos de mezclas de moldeo para machos de fundición. La higroscopicidad de las mezclas es comparada usando el criterio del incremento porcentual en masa húmeda. El estudio cinético se concluye con los cálculos de los coeficientes efectivos de difusión del agua atmosférica en las mezclas a distintas intemperies. Para este propósito se emplean métodos de ajuste no lineal. También se analiza la influencia de los materiales aglutinantes y desarenantes en las propiedades higroscópicas de estas mezclas.

Resumen Objetivo: Evaluar el efecto de la humedad sobre el fraguado del ProRoot MTA, en sus superficies intraconducto y apical. Materiales y métodos: Se emplearon 20 probetas cilíndricas huecas de silicona transparente, instaladas sobre un block de gomaespuma humedecido con suero fisiológico. Las probetas fueron obturadas con 4 mm de espesor de ProRoot MTA (Dentsply Tulsa Dental, Tulsa, OK, Estados Unidos) y divididas al azar en dos grupos de 10 probetas cada uno. En el Grupo 1 se colocó sobre el material una torunda de algodón seco, mientras que en el Grupo 2 el algodón estaba humedecido con agua destilada. Los orificios superiores de las probetas se obturaron con cemento de óxido de zinc reforzado Zoer’s (Laboratorio SL SA, Buenos Aires, Argentina). Los especímenes se mantuvieron a 37 °C de temperatura y 100% de humedad. A las 4 y 6 horas fueron removidos de la gomaespuma, se retiraron el Zoer’s y el algodón, y se registró el fraguado en las superficies del MTA intraconducto –Subgrupos 1A y 2A– y apical –Subgrupos 1B y 2B– empleando una aguja Gillmore. Las muestras no fraguadas a las 4 horas volvieron a ser evaluadas a las 6 horas con idéntico procedimiento. El procesamiento estadístico fue realizado mediante la prueba de Chi cuadrado. Resultados: A las 4 horas, se encontraba fraguado el 50% de las muestras del Subgrupo 1A, el 80% de las del Subgrupo 1B, el 90% de las del Subgrupo 2A y el 100% de las del Subgrupo 2B. A las 6 horas de control, todas las muestras se encontraban fraguadas (100%). Se registraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas –a las 4 horas– entre los Subgrupos 1A y 2A (P0,05). Tampoco hubo diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre los Subgrupos 1A y 1B ni entre los Subgrupos 2A y 2B (P>0,05). Conclusión: La presencia de un algodón húmedo en contacto con el MTA acelera el fraguado de la superficie intraconducto del material, en tanto no influye en el fraguado de su superficie apical. Palabras clave: MTA, fraguado, humedad, apexificación. Abstract Aim: To evaluate the effect of moisture on the setting of Pro- Root MTA in intracanal and apical surfaces. Materials and methods: 20 silicone cylindrical transparent test tubes were used and placed in a wet gel foam block with physiological serum. They were filled with 4 mm thickness of Pro-Root MTA (Dentsply Tulsa Dental, Tulsa, OK, USA) and then randomly divided into two experimental groups of 10 test tubes each. In Group 1 a dry cotton pellet was placed over the material surface, while in Group 2 a cotton pellet wetted with distilled water was used. The upper holes of the tubes were sealed with reinforced zinc oxide-eugenol cement (Zoer’s). The test tubes were stored at 37 °C and 100% relative humidity for four or six hours and then the tubes were removed from the gel foam. The setting times of intracanal (Subgroups 1A and 2A) and apical surfaces (Subgroups 1B y 2B) were then determined using a Gillmore needle. The samples that had not set after four hours were tested again two hours later. A chi-square test was used for statistical analysis. Results: At the 4 hours observation 50% of samples in Subgroup 1A and 80% in Subgroup 1B were set and after 6 hours all of the unset samples in Subgroups 1A, 1B and 2A were set (100%). At four hours, there were statistically significant differences between Subgroups 1A and 2A (P0.05). Conclusion: The presence of a wet cotton pellet in contact with MTA accelerates the intracanal surface setting of the material, but does not affect its apical surface setting. Key words: MTA, setting time, moisture, apexification.

A study of drying process at low temperature of two varieties of pepper for paprika (Capsicum annuum L. cv Jaranda and Jariza) according to the traditional techniques of La Vera region is carried out controlling simultaneously the characteristics of the fruits before and after of the dehydration process and the conditions used. Correspondences have been found between the initial moisture of the fruits, the drying parameters (temperature and time), and the increase and/or loss (including its corresponding quantity) in carotenoid pigment content. The favorable conditions to produce a pigment content increase, that indicates the existence of a biosynthetic process, are those including a healthy raw material with high moisture values and temperature of dried moderate - low (50 ºC) without extending unnecessarily the dehydration time (just to obtain the adequate texture for the grinding).

A near-infrarred reflectance (NIR) equipment with optical based on interference filters was used. Lineal combination of these filters were obtained for measuring oil content and moisture in olives. A good correlation in the interval 15.70% to 33.00%, between olive oil content predicted by near-infrarred and data obtained with the Soxhlet method has been obtained (correlation coefficient r=0.9908 and estandar error of prediction SEP=0.811). For moisture, a good correlation, in the interval 36.5%-65.0% between measures obtained by near-infrarred prediction and the reference dry-oven method was also observed (r=0.9939 and SEP=0.928). With a near-infrarred technique measurement of both parameter can be takes concurrently and in a few seconds. Chemical reagents and complex sample preparation are not required, only milling of drupes by a hammer crusher.

O objetivo deste trabalho foi verificar o efeito da amonização sobre teor de proteína bruta (PB), retenção de nitrogênio (RN), teor de matéria seca (MS), conservação, constituintes da parede celular e digestibilidade in vitro da matéria seca (DIVMS) da quirera de milho com alta umidade (25%). Quatro níveis de amônia anidra (0, 1, 2 e 3%) e cinco períodos de aeração (0, 7, 14, 21 e 28 dias) foram estudados em delineamento inteiramente ao acaso, em esquema de parcelas subdivididas. Os teores de PB da quirera aumentaram (10,3; 14; 15,2; e 16,2%) com os crescentes dos níveis amônia anidra (0, 1, 2 e 3%). A RN diminuiu, 61,9; 39; e 31,2%, para os níveis de 1, 2 e 3% de amônia anidra, respectivamente. O teor de MS reduziu com o aumento dos níveis de amônia anidra (81,0, 77,7, 77,0 e 78,0%) e dos períodos de aeração (74,2; 75,8; 78,9; 80,3; e 80,7%). A RN (52,2 para 38,9%) e os teores de PB (14,7 para 13,5%) diminuíram com o aumento do período de aeração, respectivamente, no período de 0 a 28 dias. Houve a presença de fungos para os níveis de 0 e 1% de amônia anidra, associados a temperaturas mais altas. Os teores de fibra em detergente acido (5,6%) e celulose (4,5%) permaneceram inalterados, tanto para os niveis de amônia anidra, quanto para períodos de aeração. Os teores de fibra em detergente neutro (22,7; 22,8; 18,5; e 14,8%) e hemicelulose (17,0; 17,3; 12,7 e 9,2%) reduziram para os níveis de 0, 1, 2 e 3 % de amônia anidra, respectivamente. A DIVMS (88,5; 89,8; 90,3; e 90,8 %) da quirera de milho melhorou com o aumento dos níveis de amônia anidra (0, 1, 2 e 3%).The objective of this work was to verify the effect of ammoniation on the contents of crude protein (CP), nitrogen retention (NR), dry matter (DM) content, preservation, cell wall constituents and in vitro dry matter disappearance (IVDMD) of cracked corn with high moisture (25%). Four levels of anhydrous ammonia (0, 1, 2 and 3%) and five aeration periods (0, 7, 14 21, and 28 days) were studied using a completely randomized design, in a split plot design. The contents of cracked corn CP increased (10.3, 14, 15.2 and 16.7%) with increasing anhydrous ammonia levels (0, 1, 2 and 3%) respectively. The CP NR decreased, 61.9, 39 and 31.2%, for the levels 1, 2 and 3 of anhydrous ammonia, respectively. The DM content decreased with increase of anhydrous ammonia levels (81.0, 77.7, 77.0 and 78,0%) and with the increase of aeration periods (74.2, 75.8, 78.9, 80.3 and 80.7%). The NR (52.2 to 38.9%) and CP (14.7 to 13.5%) decreased with increasing of aeration periods, respectively, at the period from 0 to 28 days. There was a fungi presence for levels of 0 and 1 % of anhydrous ammonia, associated with higher temperature. The acid detergent fiber content (5.6%) and cellulose (4.5%) maintained unaltered, such as for anhydrous ammonia levels, as for aeration periods. The contents of neutral detergent fiber (22.7, 22.8, 18.5 and 14.8%) and hemicellulose (17.0, 17.3, 12.7 and 9.2%) decreased in the levels of 0, 1, 2, and 3% of anhydrous ammonia, respectively. The IVDMD (88.5, 89.8, 90.3 and 90.8), of cracked corn improved with the increase of the anhydrous ammonia levels (0, 1, 2 and 3%).

In this paper, the nutritive value of the three qualities of Jijona- Nougat has been analysed. These qualities are regulated by the Spanish Regulations for Nougat and Marzipan (Reglamentación Técnico-Sanitaria para Turrones y Mazapanes), (Real Decreto 1167/1990). Thirty-three samples of Jijona-Nougat have been studied: twenty-one samples belonging to «Suprema» quality (corresponding to three different batches of production of seven commercial brands). Nine samples belonging to «Extra» quality (three different batches of production of three commercial brands). Three «Popular» samples, corresponding to three different batches of production from the unique manufacturer found on the market. Moisture and macronutrients: protein, fat and carbohydrates, have been determined in all the samples. The results and their statistical study are shown in this paper.