A. L. Livingston

Detection of coumestrol in leguminous plants

Abstract A procedure has been described whereby it is possible to qualitatively detect small amounts of a new plant estrogen, coumestrol, in plant material. The method consists of chromatographing an extract of the plant sequentially in two solvent systems on heavy filter paper, then in four solvent systems on silicic acid chromatostrips. The progress of the purification was followed by the blue fluorescence of the compound when the chromatograms were exposed to ultraviolet light. The identity of coumestrol was established by its characteristic fluorescence and R f and by comparison of the spectrophotometric curve with that of pure coumestrol. By this procedure, coumestrol has been detected in seven leguminous plants, and the estimated potency based on this qualitative procedure was compared with the values obtained by mean uterine weight assays.

Comparative evaluation of antioxidants for carotene

SummaryA variety of compounds were evaluated as antioxidants for carotene in mineral oil solution by an accelerated stability test. These included derivatives of aromatic amines, substituted dihydroquinolines, ureas, phenothiazine, azobenzene, and diphenylmethane.The most effective antioxidants were hydroxy- and amino-substituted diphenylamines, p-substituted phenylenediamines, and derivatives of 2,2,4-trimethyl-1,2-dihydroquinoline.

Identification of 7,4′-dihydroxyflavone in forages

Abstract 7,4′-Dihydroxyflavone, a previously unrecognized constituent of plants, has been found in alfalfa ( Medicago saliva ) and in ladino clover ( Trifolium repens ).

The occurrence of zeinoxanthin in alfalfa

Abstract A monohydroxycarotenol has been isolated from alfalfa and shown to be zeinoxanthin.