The simultaneous collection of data from two automated amino-acid analysers and processing of the data by computer

Abstract

An account is given of the development of a logging system for acquiring data on punched tape from two amino-acid analysers running a t different speeds. The outputs of the anslysers were sampled in such a way that a visual record of the progress of each separation was retained. A method of programming the computer to edit and process the data is outlined. Results obtained from the computer showed good agreement, both within analytical systems and between systems. Manual calculations from recorder charts, made by use of the time-consuming manual method, agreed well with the computer results from punched tape and cards. Problems encountered during the period of development are discussed.THE composition of protein in terms of aniino-acids, and the concentrations of free amino-acids in body fluids, are of considerable interest to many research workers whether they are interested in the academic aspects of protein structure and synthesis or in the practical aspects of dietary protein utilisation by man and other animals. Since the advent of the first system of automated analysis, over a decade ago,l considerable progress has been made in the speed with which analyses can be carried out, so that automated analysis is now widely used on a routine basis. However, the introduction of such automation in what is a micro-method for twenty or more amino-acids determined simultaneously, has given rise to its own problems in the form of collection and processing of results, and periodical mechanical and electronic failures in equipment. The need for data collection and processing has led to the introduction of datalogging equipment and the use of a computer for calculating results.This paper describes the development of an automated system of amino-acid analysis in which one data logger periodically samples the output from each of two analysers running at widely different rates, and directs this information to separate outputs on punched paper tape. The tapes are then edited and processed by computer with use of additional information punched on cards.

Effect of Ammonia Concentration on the Composition, Hydrolytic Activity and Nitrogen Metabolism of the Microbial Flora of the Rumen

“…I ml all adjusted to pH 2.0 with HCI). The amino acid content of this suspension was analysed using a Locarte analyser modified to give tape output (Davidson et al 1974). A sample (0.25 ml) containing material from 1-4 ml rumen liquor and 0.1 pmol norleucine, was applied to the column.…”