BACKGROUND The use of lignocellulosic constituents in biotechnological processes requires a selective separation of the main fractions (cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin). During diluted acid hydrolysis for hemicellulose extraction, several toxic compounds are formed by the degradation of sugars and lignin, which have ability to inhibit microbial metabolism. Thus, the use of a detoxification ...

In in vitro ruminal fermentation, micronised wood powder is digested to produce volatile fatty acids, but its fermentability is weak. The aim of the present study was to ascertain a suitable pretreatment of micronised wood powder to enhance volatile fatty acid production in vitro. Rumen fluid taken from beef cattle was anaerobically incubated with micronised wood powder. Initially, effects of p...

A largely defined series of hydrolytic enzymes active during malting and/or mashing, substantially determine the quality, profitability, and efficiency brewing process. These potentially hydrolyze starch, proteins cell wall non-starch polysaccharides including β-glucan arabinoxylan. Commercial malts (94) were assayed for DP (limit dextrinase, beta/α-amylase), NSP hydrolyzing (β-glucanase, xylan...

In vitro techniques were evaluated to determine the nutritive value of a selection of tanniniferous tree and shrub legumes (Calliandra calothyrsus, Leucaena leucocephala L. diversifolia and L. pallida) compared with lucerne (Medicago sativa). Polyethylene glycol (PEG) was also added to some in vitro fermentations (10 mg PEG/50 mg plant substrate) to assess the effects of tannins on digestion of...