011306   Kulkarni M P;Phapale U G;Swarge N G; Somayajulu M R (High Energy Materials Research Laboratory, , Pune-411 021) : Smoke composition to disseminate capsaicinoids in atmosphere as sensory irritant. Def Sci J 2006, 56(3), 369-75.

Dissemination of sensory irritants in the atmosphere with the help of an evaporating mixture is adopted. Experiments were carried out to find an alternative sensory irritant which is more irritating and less toxic than the existing sensory irritating agents and originating from a natural source. Extract of red pepper, the oleoresin, is less toxic than the existing sensory irritants and is analysed for its constituents. Thermal studies of capsaicin and the composition indicate that the composition ignites at 190 °C whereas capsaicinoids boil at 214 °C. Lactose-KClO₃ reaction was found to release sufficient thermal energy to evaporate capsaicinoids into the atmosphere without degeneration. The compositions are both friction and impact insensitive. The dissemination of capsaicinoids into the atmosphere was confirmed using HPLC technique.

4 illus, 9 ref

011305   Garg V;Sundararaj P (Food and Nutrition Dep, Lady Irwin College, University of Delhi, New Delhi, Email: psundararaj@hotmail.com) : Organoleptic acceptability and frying stability of expeller-pressed and filtered soybean oil. J Lipid Sci Technol 2006, 38(2), 66-73.

Expeller-pressed and filtered soybean oil (SBOI) was assessed for fatty acid composition, physicochemical characteristics, organoleptic acceptability and frying stability, and was compared with commonly consumed solvent-extracted and refined soybean oil (SBOII). SBOI had 2.2% more of physiologically important n-3 linolenic acid; composition of other fatty acids was comparable to that of SBOII. Values for baseline physico-chemical characteristics of both the oils were within the respective specified ranges. Organoleptic evaluation showed that paratha, bindi sabji, upma, mathri, cutlet and dal vada prepared in SBOI and SBOII were equally well accepted. The frying stability of the two oils was assessed by measuring the oxidative deterioration undergone on frying and refrying regimen. There was an increase in % fatty acids, peroxide, anisidine and totox values. The increase was greater when the oils were used for refrying. SBOI underwent less oxidative deterioration as compared to SBOII, both with fresh and resued oil. Decreased oil uptake in cutlet and dal vada was observed when SBOI was used for frying as well as refrying.

11 tables, 18 ref

011304   Gangopaghyay S;Nandi S;Saha A;Ghosh S (Chemical Technology Dep, University of Calcutta, 92, A.P. Road, Kokata-700 009, Email: santinathghosh@yahoo.com.nk) : Oxidation of long chain fatty acids to dicarboxylic acids by a mutant of Candida tropicalis. J Lipid Sci Technol 2006, 38(2), 74-9.

Strains of Candida tropicalis are known for a long time to produce dicarboxylic acids (DCAs) from alkanes. A strain of C. tropicalis capable of producing dibasic acids both from n-alkanes and fatty acids are chosen. The strain was mutated to improve the DCA production capacity. After several stages of mutation, the mutant M20 was obtained which showed maximum DCA Producing activity. Initially fermentation was conducted in shake flasks and DCA production was studied from substrates like decane, dodecane, kerosene fraction and fatty acids of different chain length C₈ to C₁₈. Production increases with the increase in chain length for both alkanes and fatty acids, moreover unsaturated acids are easily biooxidised than saturated fatty acids of same chain lenth. Finally the study was conducted in a 2 lit jar fermenter along with optimisation of parameters like substrate concentration, pH of te fermenting medium and time of fermentation. Under optimised conditions 68 g.lit of C₁₈

2 illus, 7 tables, 11 ref

011303   Bhatnagar P;Khan A A;Jain M;Jain S K (Microbiology Dep, College of Life Sciences, Cancer Hospital and Research Institute, Gwalior-474 009) : Bacteriological study of khoa sold in Gwalior and Morena city (Madhya Pradesh) in relation to public health. Asian J expl Sci 2007, 21(1), 55-62.

Study was conducted to determine bacterial contaminants/pathogens in Khoa samples sold in Gwalior and Morena city in Madhya Pradesh. Total Fifty samples of Khoa brought at random were cultured on several media. Bacterial colony counts were also made. Predominant organisms isolated were Staphylococcus and Streptococcus species. The viable counts obtained ranged from 1.3 x 10⁴ to 2.1 x 10⁶ CFU/g. Contamination of Khoa by pathogenic bacteria could be an important factor of gastrointestinal illness in the consumers. Adequate consumer protection can be achieved by measuring the microbiological data of product.

010357   Vasudevan P;Padmavathy V;Dhingra S C (Centre for Rural Development and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, New Delhi-110 016, Email: padmav10@hotmail.com) : Cadmium (II) ion and nickel (II) ion biosorption on yeast: application of equilibrium model. J scient ind Res 2006, 65(12), 1013-17.

Experimental data on cadmium (II) and nickel (II) ion sorption on deactivated protonated yeast over a wide range of sorbent and initial metal concentrations, were analyzed by an equilibrium model based on a thermodynamics approach. Model describes relationships between the equilibrium concentration of metal, metal sorption per unit biomass dosage and concentration of sorbent and initial metal concentrations at constant pH and temperature. It is not found possible to reasonably fit the sorption data for cadmium (II) and nickel (II) ion on deactivated protonated yeast, to a unique isotherm curve when both initial metal ion concentration and biomass concentration are varied at a particular pH. Model fits the data well for the sorption of nickel (II) ion onto deactivated protonated yeast at pH 6.75. However, model could be applied only for a given substrate concentration for sorption of cadmium (II) ion onto sodium form of deactivated protonated yeast at pH 6.5.

4 illus, 2 tables, 14 ref

010356   Srivastava S;Srivastava S;Chitranshi N;Dan M; Rawat A K S;Pushpangadan P (Division of Pharmacognosy and Ethnopharmacology, National Botanical Research Institute, Lucknow-226 001, Email: sharad_ks2003@yahoo.com) : Pharmacognostic evaluation of Curcuma haritha Linn. J scient ind Res 2006, 65(11), 916-20.

Curcuma haritha Linn (Family: Zingiberaceae), a lesser-known medicinal zingiber, is wildly distributed in Kerala. It is common throughout the costal regions and grows along with C. caesia and C. raktakanta, but is rarely found in high altitude srasslands. It is closely related to C. aromatica, but differs in the yellowish-grey, non-aromatic rhizome, leathery, semipilicate, erect leaves, white corolla and yellow tip with a median dark yellow band. It also resembles C. raktakanta but differs from it in having green puesdostem with light pink spots, white corolla lobes and swollen placenta. A paste of rhizome is useful externally for cuts, wounds, itching and in sprains. Pharmacognostic evaluation of its rhizome showed: total ash. 7.4; acid insoluble ash, 1.5: alcohol soluble extractives, 8.50; water soluble extractives, 19.50; sugar. 5.11: starch, 42.88 and tannins, 1.78%. On hydro distillation, rhizomes and sessile tubers yield oil (0.58%).

3 illus, 12 ref

010355   Sachdeva R;Grewal S;Kochhar A (Department of Food and Nutrition, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana-141 004) : Efficacy of nutrition counselling on the nutritional and haemotological profile of elderly males of urban and rural areas. J hum Ecol 2006, 20(1), 37-41.

Sample of 60 elderly males aged 60-75 yrs. i.e. 30 each from urban (Group I) and rural (Group II) areas belonging to low socio-economic status were selected from Ludhiana district. The average per capita monthly income was Rs. 898/- and Rs. 858/- in group I and II respectively. Nutrition counselling was carried out for three months through lectures, demonstrations, visual aids etc. by nine individual and three group contacts to the subjects alongwith their wives. Daily food intake of the subjects was recorded by using "24 hr. recall method" for three consecutive days before (T₁) and after nutrition counselling (T₂). The food intake in both the groups was inadequate in cereals, pulses, roots and tubers, other vegetables, fruits, milk and milk products. However, intake of GLV's, fats and oils, sugar and jaggery was higher than ICMR recommendations at T₁ and T₂ in both the groups. Average daily energy intake in group I and II was 2297 and 2276 and 2285 and 2269 Kcal at T₁ and T₂ respectively. All the subjects consumed diets inadequate in protein, vitamin A, niacin, riboflavin, vit. B₁₂, iron and zinc, but adequate in energy, thiamine, calcium and phosphorus. The mean haemoglobin levels in group I and II at T₁ and T₂ were 12.94 and 14.49 and 13.15 and 14.78 g/dl. The study revealed that there was significant improvement in the nutrient intake and haemotological profile of the subjects at T₂ but it did not meet the recommendations. The poor status could be due to low income, illiteracy, ignorance, low availability of foods, loneliness, depression etc. There should be multi prolonged nutrition and health education programme, keeping in view the cost benefit analysis and severe financial constraints.

3 tables, 18 ref

010354   Okonkwo E M;Odigure J O;Ugwu J O;Azu K M; Williams I S;Nwobi B E;Okorie F K;Oriah V N (NO, National Research Institute for Chemical Technology, Zaria, Nigeria, Email: ugwu_ju@yahoo.com) : Design of pilot plant for the production of essential oil from Eucalyptus leaves. J scient ind Res 2006, 65(11), 912-15.

Presents design, construction and test run of a pilot plant for the production of essential oils (0.864 1/h) from Eucalyptus leaves. Analysis shows that the rate at which steam passes through the leaf bed may deviate from linear relationship to curve depending on the loading capacity. An oil/leave production rate of 3.0x10² ml/g was obtained. In designing pilot plant, tank still has a dimension of 0.45 m diam and length of 1.65 m. Packed bed height was 0.565 m with an expected pressure head loss of 0.013 m. Overall heat transfer coefficient was calculated as 176.12W/m² °C. The condenser has a heat load of 4970 kJ/s requiring a cooling water flow rate of 0.047 kg/sec.

2 illus, 1 table, 9 ref

010353   Kulkarni V L;Mahulikar P P (NO, School of Chemical Sciences, North Maharashtra University, Jalgaon-425 001, Email: mahulikarpp@rediffmail.com) : Estimation of Rabeprazole sodium in tablet dosage form by rapid isocratic reversed phase high performance liquid chromatography using volatile buffer additives. J scient ind Res 2006, 65(12), 992-4.

Simple rapid and reproducible reverse phase high performance liquid chromatographic (RP-HPLC) assay method for determination of Rabeprazole Sodium (RS) in solid dosage form (20 mg) has been developed. Chromatographic separation was performed on YMC C₁₈, ODS-AM stainless steel column (250 mm x 4.6 mm ID; particle size 5μ). Mobile phase comprised of 50 m M ammonium acetate in water (pH 8) with ammonia and methanol. Detection was performed using PDA detector. Recovery of RS in tablets was 95.5-96.8%. Chromatographic response of the analyte (100-500 μg/ml) was linear with correlation coefficient more than 0.99. Runtime of the method is very short and mobile phase additives used are volatile that are also suitable for mass spectrometry analysis. Therefore, this method could be used for routine quality control analysis and in bio-analytical work.

2 illus, 2 tables, 8 ref

010352   Hussain S;Yadav S P;Yadav M P S;Singh Y P; Singh Omkar (Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, C.S. Azad University of Agri. & Tech., Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh) : Effect of addition of hydrogen peroxide and thiocyanate on preservation of raw milk. Pl Archs 2006, 6(2), 711-3.

Two preservatives of milk viz. hydrogen peroxide and thiocyanate were used to observe the effect on keeping quality of raw milk. The samples were subjected for standard plate count, dye reduction and chemical tests at various time and temperature combinations. It was observed that the quality of incubated milk having 30 ppm of H₂O₂ and SCN was very good upto 120, 8 and 6 h at 4, 22 and 37°C, respectively and 8 h at 22 and 37°C when added with 10 ppm concentration.

2 tables, 5 ref

010351   Chidanandaiah;Sanyal M K (LPT Div., FVSc & AH, SKUAST-J, RS Pura, Jammu) : Quality of whey and water based soup prepared from spent hen shank. Indian J Poult Sci 2006, 41(1), 102-4.

In an attempt to utilize chicken shanks, soup was prepared with whey as well as water (20% w/w). Quality or whey based shank-whey soup had highly significantly (P<60>0.01) higher content of protein, ash and total solids as well as titratable acidity. However, pH of the shank-whey soup was highly significantly (P<60>0.01) lower than that of shank soup. Use of whey significantly (P<60>0.05) improved appearance and colour and consistency with significant (P<60>0.01) increase in overall palatability of shank-whey soup as compared to that of shank-water soup.

^ssc2 tables, 7 ref

010350   Bandyopadhyay M;Chakraborty R;Raychaudhuri U (Department of Food Technology and Biochemical Engineering, Jadavpur University, Kolkata-700 032, Email: urcfoodtech@yahoo.co.in) : Comparative study of non-conventional coagulants vis-a-vis traditional coagulant on chhana (an acid and heat coagulated product from milk). J scient ind Res 2006, 65(12), 995-9.

Three non-conventional, low cost, food grade organic acids (acetic acid, fumaric acid, tartaric acid) were effectively used as coagulant at three different concentrations (0.5, 1 and 2%) in the manufacture of chhana (a heat and acid coagulated milk protein mass and an Indian equivalent to cottage cheese) as substitute for sour whey. Chhana prepared by all type of coagulants including sour whey were found similar in quality. Concentrations (0.5 and 1%) of three acids produced higher yield than sour whey. Fumaric acid (all conc.), tartaric acid (1 & 2%) and acetic acid (2%) gave higher total solid recovery than sour whey Chhana made by three acids (1 & 2%) contained higher fat and protein than chhana made by sour whey. The three organic acid coagulants produced little bit hardy, chewy, gummy, elastic and cohesive chhana than sour whey but that chhana could be better utilized for making dry chhana sweets. All three organic acid coagulants (1%) were effectively used in the manufacture of chhana as substitute for sour whey.

3 tables, 31 ref

009281   Zahran M K;Mahmoud R I (Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Helwan University, Ain Helwan, Cairo, Egypt) : Synthesis and characterization of polyacrylamide guar gum graft copolymers. J Text Ass 2006, 66(6), 273-81.

Acrylamide (Aam) was polymerized with guar gum (GG) to synthesize poly(acrylamide)-guar gum [PAam-GG] copolymer using the potassium bromate-thiourea (KBrO₃-TU) redox initiation system. To optimize the conditions of PAam GG synthesis, different factors affecting the polymerization reactions were studied. Results obtained indicated that, at a definite rate of shear, the apparent viscosity decreased as the percentage graft yield increased, irrespective of the polymerization conditions applied. Results also indicated that the optimum conditions arrived at for preparation of a Poly(Aam)-GG copolymer were: the KBrO₃ to TU eqimolar ratio, 6:6 mmol/100 gm GG; [Aam], 30% (based on weight of GG); pH value, 3; polymerization temperature, 50°C and polymerization time, 2 hrs. Tentative mechanisms, signifying various chemical events that probably occur throughout the whole coarse of the polymerization reactions are reported.

17 illus, 42 ref

009280   VenKatappa;Dhananjaya S (Department of Fish Processing Technology, College of Fisheries, KVAFSU, Mangalore-575 002) : Ice storage characteristics of octopus, Octopus membranaceus (Quoy and gaimard). Fish Technol 2006, 43(2), 154-61.

Quality changes in ice stored octopus (Octopus membranaceus) in different forms viz., whole octopus iced (WOI), dressed octopus iced (DOI) and dressed, packed in polythene bags & iced (DPI) were studied. During storage slight increase in moisture content was noticed in WOI and DOI samples, where as in DPI sample slight decrease was noticed. Crude protein decreased in all the samples. There was not much change in fat and ash content in any of the samples. Significant increase in TVB-N, TMA-N, PV and FFA were noticed in all the samples but the rate of change was more in DPI an DOI samples. Initial total plate count of octopus was 4.2x10⁴ which increased to 9.93x10⁵, 6.50x10⁵ and 8.76x10⁵ cfu/g and Psychrophiles with initial count of 3.45x10³ cfu/g increased to 3.79x10⁴, 1.90x10⁴ and 2.20x10⁴ in WOI, DOI and DPI samples respectively. There was decrease in nitrogenous compounds such as SSN, WSN and NPN in all the samples. It was found that the whole octopus ice stored was acceptable up to 15 days, where as DOI and DPI were acceptable up to 9 days, but DPI had little bit inferior quality than the DOI. Whole octopus iced showed significantly lower values of quality indices such as PV, FFA, TVB-N, TMA-N, TPC and psychrophilic count, indicating better quality than the DOI & DPI. Significant correlation was observed between changes in biochemical and sensory characteristics.

7 illus, 4 tables, 38 ref

009279   Sharma G K;Padmashree A;Roopa N;Semwal A D; Leela R K (Defence Food Research Laboratory, , Mysore-11) : Development and storage stability of ready to eat texturised soy chunks. Indian Fd Packer 2006, 60(1), 52-5.

Processing conditions were standardized for the preparation of ready-to-eat (RTE) texturised soy chunks. During storage, the changes in chemical parameters like fatty acid profile, mineral contents, moisture, peroxide value, free fatty acid value and salt content were determined as per the standard methods. Organoleptic and microbiological study were also carried out on the stored RTE texturised soy chunks at regular intervals. The sterilized ready-to-eat texturised soy chunks remained stable chemically, sensorily and microbiologically for 8 months while unsterilized ones were stable for 2 months only.

1 illus, 3 tables, 19 ref

009278   Khojare A S;Bikram Kumar;Niras V V;Vidya S R (Department of Dairy Science, Vivekanand A & SDCS College (BAMU) Samarthnagar, Aurangabad-431 001, Email: askhojare@rediffmail.com) : Effect to product concentration on mixing and blending index for burfi production. Indian Fd Packer 2006, 60(1), 56-60.

Studies on mixing and blending of sugar and other ingredients viz., colour, flavor, dry fruit etc. was carried out in relation to product parameters for process upgradation to mechanise burfi production. Effect of product concentration on mixing and blending index for burfi production was investigated. Mixing and blending index value increased from 1 to 24 as the tracer concentration level varied from 0.1 to 4%. Product prepared from 2.5% to 4% tracer concentration level was of acceptable quality on sensory score. Twenty three to 30% moisture content in khoa was found to be optimum parameter as residence time of the product in the vat increased from 20 to 35 minutes for khoa containing more than 30% moisture. Product prepared at optimized parameter viz., trace concentration 2.5 to 4%, and moisture content in khoa 23 to 30% was highly acceptable on sensory evaluation.

4 illus, 1 table, 11 ref

009277   Kadam P S;Gadhe K S;Mitkari K K;Patil B M; Sharma S K (NO, College of Food Technology, Parbhani) : Dhokla preparation by using soybean variety MAU-2 in the replacement of bengal gram flour. J Soil Crop 2006, 16(1), 116-20.

Soybean ranks highest among the legumes because it contains highest amount of protein and oil. From the present investigation it can be concluded that the soybean can be used in Dhokla preparation by replacing Bengal gram, to the richer as well as economic replacement. This will give nutritionally richer as well as economic products to the consumers. The flavour and texture of the product prepared by replacing bengal gram with soybean was excellent and acceptable to the consumers.

5 tables, 8 ref

009276   Jose L;Manju S;Kamalakanth C K;Srinivasa Gopal T K;Ravishankar C N;Ashok Kumar K (NO, Central Institute of Fisheries Technology, Cochin-682 029) : Nucleotide degradation of pearl spot during modified atmosphere storage. Fish Technol 2006, 43(2), 162-7.

Effect of modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) at different gas concentration on chill stored pearl spot (Etroplus suratensis Bloch) was examined by means of nucleotide degradation and sensory evaluation. K value, a quality index for fish, the ratio of the sum of inosine and hypoxanthine to the sum of ATP and related catabolites expressed as a percentage, was determined until sensory rejection during storage up to 23 days at 0 - 2°C. The CO₂ concentration did not affect the K values of pearl spot. K value increased linearly in samples stored under air and four different modified atmospheres. Identical K values were obtained for Pearl spot packed in either aerobic or carbon dioxide modified atmosphere. K values were independent of sensory spoilage and correlate only with the length of storage of pearl spot packed under MAP.

3 illus, 4 tables, 24 ref

009275   Jeyakumari A;Rathnakumar K;Velayutham P (Department of Fish Processing Technology, Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamilnadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Thoothukudi-628 008) : Storage behaviour of washed mince from pink perch (Nemipterus japonicus) at 30°C. Fish Technol 2006, 43(2), 138-45.

Proximate composition of Pink perch (Nemipterus japonicus) used in the study was recorded as protein, 16.22%; fat, 1.3% and ash, 1.7%. The yield of this fish after dressing ie., beheading and evisceration was 76%. The minced meat has a solubility of 91% and no TMA was recorded. Other physico-chemical properties also reflected its prime quality. The minced meat was frozen stored at -30°C. During storage up to 120 days, slight pH increased up to 6%, a-amino nitrogen to 51% and TVB-N to 80%. However there was no significant change (P<62>0.05) in the FFA and PV during the storage period. Functional properties like solubility, viscosity, Ca²⁺ ATPase activity did not vary significantly (P<62>0.05) with storage period indicating the quality of minced meat. The study indicateed that storage of minced meat of Pink perch (Nemipterus japonicus) at -30°C does not alter the major protein fractions as indicated by the functional properties and gel forming ability. This was reflected in the over all acceptability of the cooked meat where, appearance and colour of meat did not vary significantly (P<62>0.05) with storage period.

7 tables, 31 ref

009274   Jeyakumari A;Rathnakumar K (Department of Fish Processing Technology, Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamilnadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Thoothukudi-628 008) : Effect of incorporation of frozen stored minced fish on the quality of gelatinized product from rice and maize flour. Fish Technol 2006, 43(2), 146-53.

Fish mince was prepared using pink perch (Nemipterus japonicus) meat and frozen stored at -30°C. Mince was mixed with rice flour and maize flour at 5%, 10%, 20% and 30% level and gelatinized using twin screw extruder in the temperature range of 80, 90, 100 and 110°C. Frozen stored mince was drawn at 30 days interval upto 120 days and products were prepared. Gelatinized products were analysed for its chemical composition, biochemical, functional, organoleptical and microbiological status and the results are presented. From the results it is found that, gelatinized products prepared using minced meat stored at -30°C for 120 days does not show any significant change in the over all quality for acceptance.

4 tables, 30 ref

009273   George V;Arora S;Sharma V;Wadhwa B K;Sharma G S;Singh A K (Dairy Chemistry Division, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal-132 001) : Sweetener blends and their application. Indian J Dairy Sci 2006, 59(3), 131-8.

Artificial sweeteners are substances other than sucrose, which are used to provide sweetness in foods at relatively low levels. These non-nutritive sweeteners are used as aids in the management of diabetes, dental caries and weight programmes. They also help in creating a variety of good tasting foods and beverages. The first commercial sweetener blend was saccharin and cyclamate. Today blends are frequently used. Saccharin and acesulfame-K give a synergistic effect with aspartame. Blends of acesulfame-K with sucralose increase the overall sweetness. The synergistic combination of sweeteners, known as multiple sweetener approach, has been found to provide a wider choice of low-calorie products to the consumer, enhance the performance of certain low-calorie sweeteners in some products, reduce costs and improve product taste and stability.

^iia1 illus, 6 tables, 30 ref

009272   Alam T;Goyal G K (Food Packaging Lab, Dairy Technology Division, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal-132 001) : Influence of modified atmosphere packaging [MAP] on the chemical quality of Mozzarella cheese stored in different packages at deep freeze conditions. Indian J Dairy Sci 2006, 59(3), 139-43.

Effect of different atmospheres viz., air (atm 1), vacuum (atm 2), 100% CO₂(atm 3), 100% N₂ (atm 4), and mixture of 50% N₂ and 50% CO₂ (atm 5) on the chemical quality of mozzarella cheese samples packaged in two different types of packaging materials and stored at -10 to -15°C, for various time intervals were studied. Among the different modified atmospheres, atm 3 showed minimum chemical changes during storage, thus, proving to be the best condition, followed by the samples packed in atm 5, atm 4, atm 2 and atm 1 respectively in descending order. The five types of atmospheres, intervals of storage period and the interaction between atmospheres and packages, all these factors influenced the chemical quality of mozzarella cheese.

5 illus, 1 table, 18 ref

009271   Adiguzel G;Atasever M (Department of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Veterinary Scien, Ataturk University, Erzurum, Turkey, Email: atasever@atauni.edu.tr) : Use of glucono delta lactone in halloumi cheese production. Bull pure appl Sci-Sect C 2006, 25C(1), 13-19.

Effect of glucono delta lactone (GDL) addition of milk used in production on chemical, microbiological and sensorial properties of halloumi cheese were investigated. In production of halloumi cheese cow's milk was used having 0.00% (control-group 1). 0.05% (group 2). 0.025% (group 3). 0.0125% (group 4) glucono delta lactone. The cheese samples were sailed with 2.5% of sodium chloride and vacuum packaged and stored in cold storage at 7±1°C. Cheese samples were examined chemically and microbiologically at the first day of production and on 7th, 15th, 30th and 60th days ripening period. The samples were also examined in sensorially on 15th, 30th and 60th days of ripening. There was no difference in some chemical compositions (fat in dry matter, ash in dry matter, salt in dry matter) of milks having different amount of glucono delta lactone, that were used in halloumi cheese production. The samples including GDL have higher moisture ratio and pH value then control group. Furthermore, they have lower acidity, too. There was no difference in microbiological properties (number of coliform groups, mould and yeasts, Lactobacillus, Staphylococcus-Micrococcus, total aerobic mesophilic) of the samples. In sensorial examinations, the cheese samples produced from 0.0125% GDL addition in milk and control group (no include glucono delta lactone) had higher scores. As a result, GDL addition amount 0.0125% of milk in halloumi cheese production is recommended.

3 tables, 28 ref

008161   Yamuna Rani K;Ramachandra Rao V S (Process Dynamics and Control Grp Chem Engng Sci, Indian Inst of Chem Technol, Hyderabad-500 007) : Neural modelling of biochemical systems using CDTA with adaptive learning rate. Indian J chem Technol 2006, 13(6), 623-33.

Articial neural networks are becoming increasingly popular as tools to represent chemical/biochemical process dynamics. A combined design and training algorithm (CDTA) is proposed in this study to simultaneously perform network architecture selection and training of the network weights. The proposed CDTA uses a modified back propagation learning method based on a new adaptive learning rate mechanism. The performance of the CDTA is illustrated through application to two typical fermentation systems, namely a SISO anaerobic digester and a MIMO continuous stirred tank fermenter. The adaptive learning rate method is shown to achieve faster convergence than the fixed learning rate method. The network generated is able to represent the fermentation processes accurately, which is illustrated through the reproduction of the training data set as well as through generalization data sets of responses to combinations of load disturbances and set point changes in both SISO and MIMO cases. This study demonstrates that the proposed CDTA can be used to find a neural network representation of chemical/biochemical process dynamics.

10 illus, 5 tables, 18 ref

008160   Venkateswara Rao M;Ravi Kumar P V;Sankara Rao P S (Dep of Chem Engng, RVR & JC Coll of Engng, Chowdavaram, Guntur-522 019) : Laminar flow heat transfer in concentric equilateral triangular annular channels. Indian J chem Technol 2006, 13(6), 614-22.

The problem of laminar flow heat transfer in channels of annular cross section formed by concentric equilateral triangles is studied. Numerical solutions for friction factor, and magnitude of minimum limiting Nusselt numbers for both constant heat input per unit length and constant wall temperature are obtained. The results obtained by the numerical method are compared with the available solutions for the limiting geometries of equilateral triangle and parallel plates. Experimental data for isothermal pressure drop and constant wall temperature boundary condition at the outer wall are presented. Test sections with length to equivalent diameter ratios of 13.85, 15.12 and 20.8 are employed in the present investigation. The Prandtl numbers are varied from 4 to 65 applying Glycerol-water mixture as coolant. Empirical correlations for isothermal friction factor and Nusselt number for constant wall temperature boundary conditions are presented.

14 illus, 18 ref

008159   Vaidya P D;Mahajani V V (Div of Chem Engng, Inst of Chem Technol Univ of Mumbai, Mumbai-400 019, Email: vvm@udct.org) : Quickly design CO2-amine absorber. Indian J chem Technol 2006, 13(1), 47-52.

An integral rate-based model is used to find a quick and reliable estimate of the height of packing in a CO₂ alkanolamine absorber. Heat transfer in the gas phase is neglected. Due to the need to arrive at a quick estimate of the height of packing, this assumption is made. Starting from the bottom, the height of packing required for a small change in solute mole fraction in a differential section of the tower is calculated. An average of the enhancement factor calculated using film theory of mass transfer accompanied by chemical reaction for each boundary, is used. These calculations are repeated until, at the top of the tower, the desired solute concentration is reached. The cumulative height gives total height of packing required. The method is illustrated.

3 illus, 12 ref

008158   Subahar V S;Valarmathy S;Sharmila D (NO, , Tamil Nadu-638 401, Email: priya_suba_cms@sify.com) : Speech compression using lifting schemes. Int J Syst Cybernetics Inf 2006, (Jan), 102-7.

Paper involves the design and implementation of various lifting schemes using wavelet transforms for transmission of the compressed speech samples at high data rate by reducing the transmission bandwidth and maintaining the high quality speech signal. The original motivation for developing the lifting schemes was to build second generation wavelets. Even though there exists various standardized algorithms, such as Linear Predictive Coder (LPC) etc., which offers a computationally efficient and accurate method for estimating the speech parameters but the compression ratio and signal-to-noise ratio is much larger. So there arise the need for going for better algorithms which gives the better compressed and signal to noise ratio, in addition to LPC, the Lifting Schemes using Wavelet Transforms have been designed and implemented. Finally, the Huffman Coding is used to get the original to compressed speech signal ratio. The results were obtained by simulating the Matlab Programs for various input speech signals. The tradeoffs between the bit rate, end-to-end delay, speech quality and complexity were analyzed. Simulations as well as Segmental SNR evaluations were done and the results were obtained to analyze the performance of the implemented algorithm. Comparison were done between the standarized technique and the lifting schemes in terms of compression ratio and signal to noise ratio.

4 illus, 13 ref

008157   Souza J D;Nagaraju N (Dep of Chem, St. Joseph's Coll Post-Graduate Cent, 46, Langford Road, Bangalore-560 027, Email: nagarajun@yahoo.com) : Vapour phase transesterification over modified ZrO2-Al2O3 and ZrO2-SiO2 for the synthesis of isoamyl salicylate. Indian J chem Technol 2006, 13(6), 640-3.

^ssc2 illus, 8 ref

008156   Souza J D;Nagaraju N (Dep of Chem, St. Joseph's Coll Post-Graduate Cent, 46, Langford Road, Bangalore-560 027, Email: nagarajun@yahoo.com) : Catalytic activity of anion-modified zirconia, alumina and silica in the esterification of benzyl alcohol with acetic acid. Indian J chem Technol 2006, 13(6), 605-13.

The catalytic activity of zirconia, alumina and silica and their sulphate, phosphate and borate modified forms has been studied in the liquid phase esterification of benzyl alcohol with acetic acid for the synthesis of benzyl acetate. All these catalysts have been found to be active for the formation of benzyl acetate with 100% selectivity. A small amount of dibenzyl ether was formed only in the case of sulphated zirconia when refluxed for more than 12 h. The active sites with 'weak to intermediate' acid strengths may be responsible for the catalytic activity towards the esterification. Sulphated zirconia is the most suitable catalyst providing 53 to 90% yield of benzyl acetate when refluxed for 30 min to 24 h with 0.1 to 3 g of the catalyst. This catalyst has been found to be effective in catalyzing the esterification of n-propanol, iso-propanol, n-butanol and iso-butanol with acetic acid to form the respective esters in good yields.

7 illus, 3 tables, 40 ref

008155   Sinha N D;Kuchimanchi S N;Miranda G;Shaikh S (Avecia Biotechnol Inc., , 125 Fortune Blvd., Milford, MA 01757, USA, Email: nanda.sinda@avecia.com) : Manufacture of therapeutic oligonucleotides: development of new reagents and process. Indian J Chem-Sect B 2006, 45(10), 2297-2304.

The optimization of synthesis, purification process parameters and development of new reagents have enabled successful large-scale manufacture of several therapeutic grade oligonucleotides at Avecia. The development of new reagents and processes are described in this communication.

4 illus, 9 ref

008154   Shibi I G;Anirudhan T S (Dep of Chem, Univ of Kerala, Kariavattom, Trivandrum-695 581, Email: tsani@rediffmail.com) : Kinetic and equilibrium modeling of adsorption of cobalt(II) from aqueous solutions onto surface modified lignocellulosics (Musa paradisiaca). Indian J chem Technol 2006, 13(6), 567-75.

Banana (Musa paradisiaca) Stalk (BS), an agricultural waste, modified by graft copolymerization reaction might be the basis of a new approach to remove the metal pollutants from water. The treatment process involves graft copolymerization of acrylamide onto BS using ferrous ammonium sulphate/H₂O₂ redox initiator system followed by functionalization of carboxylate group (PGBS-COOH). The efficiency of the PGBS-COOH in the removal of Co(II) from aqueous solutions has been investigated using batch experiments. The influence of different experimental parameters such as pH, contact time, initial concentration of Co(II), adsorbent dose and temperature on the adsorption process has been studied. The maximum adsorption capacity is observed at the pH range 6.5-8.0. Maximum removals of 99.7 and 97.2% are observed at Co(II) concentration of 25.0 and 50.0 mg/L, respectively. A kinetic model based on empirical relationship has been derived to predict the percentage Co(II) removal at any time for known amount of sorbent and initial Co(II) concentration. The surface mass-transfer coefficient as a function of temperature has been determined. Kinetic parameters are also evaluated. The Langmuir isotherm model fitted the experimental equilibrium data. The PGBS-COOH had adsorption capacities for Co(II) from 166.66 mg/g at 30°C to 181.46 mg/g at 60°C. Graft copolymerization of BS_an agricultural waste which is found in abundance and has otherwise no significant use and results in a low cost_value-added product which can benefit industry.

9 illus, 3 tables, 18 ref

008153   Rehman A;Kamil M;Gupta A K;Bhatnagar A K (Dep of Petrol Stud, Aligarh Muslim Univ, Aligarh-202 002, Email: arehman@technip.com) : Selective hydrogenation of menthone on raney nickel catalyst. Indian J chem Technol 2006, 13(6), 584-90.

Deals with the selective hydrogenation of menthone to menthol in a Parr reactor. The reactions are carried out in the temperature range of 100-200°C, pressure range of 5-20 kg/cm², 100 mL solvent and catalyst to substrate ratio ranging from 0-10% for a reaction time of 4-5 h. The samples are then analyzed using a gas chromatograph for determining the conversion and then selectivities are determined. The effect of various parameters such as reaction temperature, pressure, reaction time, type of solvent, type of catalyst, catalyst to substrate weight ratio, preactivation of the catalyst and precalcination of the catalyst on the selectivity and conversion was investigated. Optimization of process parameters was attempted to maximize the yield of menthol.

3 illus, 1 table, 25 ref

008152   Rajarajan G;Naresh Kumar C;Elango A (NO, Mobile Vet Dispensary, Musiri, Trichy-621 211) : Effect of antifungal agents on keeping quality of khoa. Indian J Dairy Sci 2006, 59(1), 7-9.

Twenty four khoa samples were collected aseptically from the organized dairies, and analysed in the laboratory. The samples treated with Natamycin (0.5%) and potassium sorbate (0.3%) as antifungal agents, showed lower yeast and mould count during storage at 30°C and 5°C. These findings were supported by chemical and organoleptic evaluation of khoa samples treated with antifungal agents during storage.

3 tables, 13 ref

008151   Prakash D;Singh R K;Ranju Kumari (Dep of Chem, Patna Univ, Patna-800 005) : Corrosion inhibition of mild steel in 20% HCL by some organic compounds. Indian J chem Technol 2006, 13(6), 555-60.

Mild steel is very important material for petroleum industry and it is used in several processing units like oil recovery, refining of crude oil, transportation, storage and petroleum products. Processing of crude oil is done in environment having strong acids and at high temperature, hence, rate of corrosion increases during this process. The corrosion inhibitors are used to reduce corrosion damage in sub-surface equipments in oil well field. In the study corrosion inhibition activity of four inhibitors namely 2-mercaptobenzoxazol, 2-mercaptobenzimidazol, N-cetylpyridiniumbromide and propargylbenzene-sulphonate was studied by gravimetric (viz. weight loss) and potentiostatic polarization methods in the temperature range of 30-70°C in presence of 20% HCl.

2 illus, 4 tables, 20 ref

008150   Ozturk S;Ozturk A (Ministry of Hlth of Turkey, Erzurum Regional Hyg Inst, Erzurum 25100, Turkey, Email: suzanoz25@hotmail.com) : Evaluation of essential oil and methanol extracts of Thymus kotschyanus for chemical compounds and antibacterial activity. Asian J Chem 2006, 18(3), 2127-35.

The essential oils obtained from the aerial parts of Thymus kotschyanus were analyzed for chemical compounds by using GC and GC-MS. In addition, following the methanol extraction of aerial parts of Thymus kotschyanus, soluble fraction was tested for its antibacterial activity by using disc diffusion assay. Twenty-three components accounting for 98.34% of oil were identified. The main compounds were thymol (40.39%), carvacrol (28.15%), p-cymene (10.76%) and γ-terpinene(8.13%). The antibacterial activity results showed that methanol extract of Thymus kotschyanus had a great potential of antibacterial activity against 38 of 52 bacteria species, in particular, Arthrobacter atrocyaneus. Bacillus cereus. Bacillus flexus, Bacillus lentimorbis, Brevibacillus brevis, Ervinia chrysanthemi, Kocuria rosea, Micrococcus lylae, Paenibacillus macerans, Pantoea agglomerans, Pseudomonas syringae syringae, Staphylococcus cohnii cohnii, Xanthomonas arboricola carylina and methanol extract inhibited growth of these bacteria at the concentration of 15.60-500 μg/mL. The results suggest that Thymus kotschyanus represents an inexpensive source of natural mixtures of antibacterial compounds that exhibit potentials for use in food systems to prevent the growth tof food-borne bacteria and extends the shelf life of the processed food.

3 tables, 19 ref

008149   Ozturk S;Ozturk A (Ministry of Hlth of Turkey, Erzurum Regional Hyg Inst, Erzurum 25100, Turkey, Email: suzanoz25@hotmail.com) : Inhibition of growth of some food borne bacteria by Falcaria vulgaris extract. Asian J Chem 2006, 18(3), 2119-26.

Aerial parts of Falcaria vulgaris were successively extracted with methanol using a Soxhlet extractor, then the crude extract was screened for antibacterial activities. Extracts of Falcaria vulgaris were tested for their antibacterial activity in agar disk diffusion assays, whereas the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of single compounds were determined by the microbroth dilution method. Significant antibacterial activities were found against various strains, in particular Acidovorax facilis, Bacillus cereus. Bacillus dipsauri, Bacillus lentimorbus, Bacillus spp-, Bacillus subtilis, Brevibacillus agri, Brevibacillus brevis, Corynebacterium ammoniagenes, Flavimonas oryzihabitans, Kocuria kristinae, Kocuria rosea, Micrococcus tylae, Paenibacillus apiarius, Paenibacillus macerans and Pseudomonas syringae syringae. These results support the ethnomedicinal use of Falcaria vulgaris both for treatment of infectious diseases and use as preservative in traditional herby cheese. This result may also suggest that the methanol extracts of Falcaria vulgaris possess compounds with antibacterial properties and thus can be used as a natural preservative ingredient in food and pharmaceutical industry.

2 tables, 14 ref

008148   Osabohien E;Egboh S H O;Oghwotueyenta E (Dep of Chem, Delta St Univ, A Braka, Nigeria) : Production and testing of chlorinated natural rubber paint. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2006, 3(1a), 45-50.

Dry natural rubber was dissolved in toluene and the resulting solution was chlorinated by passing chlorine gas through it. This produced a whitish precipitate which was filtered, washed and dried. The fine, whitish powder obtained containing about 40.6% chlorine was used as a base in the formulation of a white gloss paint. The viscosity of the paint was determined. The paint was applied to coat the surfaces of wood, asbestos, brick, metal and glass substrates. Evaluation tests such as drying times, hardness, adhesion, humidity, weather, flame and chemical resistances were carried out. The paint showed outstanding performances especially under chemical and flame conditions relative to most gloss paints, and latex emulsion paints.

7 tables, 17 ref

008147   Oderinde R A;Ajayi I A;Nwogu C D (Dep of Chem Industrial Chem Unit, Univ of lbadan, lbadan, Nigeria) : Preliminary investigation into the biofuel characteristics of Calophylum inophyllum Pentaclethra macrophylla, Garcinia mangostana and Telfairia occidentalis seed oils. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2006, 3(1a), 35-40.

Four oil seeds were evaluated as a renewable and potential source of energy. Successive seed oil extraction indicated that almost 27.64 ± 0.60%, 49.82 ± 0.49%, 50 ± 4.08% and 50.74 ± 2.1% for Garcinia mangostana, Calophylum inophyllum, Pentaclethra macrophylla and Telfairia occidentalis seeds respectively were oil. The physical and fuel related properties of the seed oils were investigated. The results showed that these properties were comparable to those of other vegetable oils that have been used as biofuels and to current European specifications for biodiesel. Using two different esterification procedures, the percentage yield of the alkyl esters of the four seed oils were compared and the batch process of esterification was found to give a better yield. The overall findings from this study suggests that these seed oils may be an appropriate substitute for diesel fuel and that the use of Calophyllum inophyllum, Garcinia mangostana, Pentaclethra macrophylla and Telfairia occidentalis seed oils as fuel represents one possible hope for the future of Nigerian agriculture.

4 illus, 3 tables, 20 ref

008146   Mandavgane S A;Pandharipande S L (NO, Priyadarshini Inst of Engng and Technol, Nagpur-440 016) : Application of optimum ANN architecture for heat exchanger modeling. Indian J chem Technol 2006, 13(6), 634-9.

The shell and tube heat exchanger is a common type used for heating or cooling of process fluids. The various parameters to be taken into account for developing a model are inlet and outlet temperatures of shell and tube side fluids and their flow rates. Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) are effective in modeling of non-linear multi variable relationships and also referred as black box models. For modeling of shell and tube heat exchanger, ANN architecture has been optimized. In the paper the optimized ANN architecture is employed for water-20% glycerin and water-40% glycerin systems for estimation of exit temperature of both the fluids as a function of inlet temperature conditions and also flow rates. It is observed that ANN model with three hidden layers (4-15-15-15-2) has good level of accuracy (98-99.5%) for predicted values of training and test data set.

14 illus, 5 tables, 27 ref

008145   Madaeni S S (Dep of Chem Engng, Razi Univ, Kermanshah, Iran, Email: smadaeni@yahoo.com) : Preparation and properties of composite membranes composed of non-conductive membranes and polypyrrole. Indian J chem Technol 2006, 13(1), 65-70.

Conductive composite membrane was prepared by oxidation of pyrrole in the commercial microfiltration membrane support using ferric ions and ascorbic acid as polymerization and oxidation agents, respectively. The concentrations for pyrrole and ferric chloride solutions were optimized as 0.745 and 2 molar, respectively. An acceptable conductivity resistivity equals to 42.1 Kohm.cm was obtained in these conditions. Filtration of BSA (bovine serum albumin-charged protein) solution was carried out to investigate the properties of prepared membrane. Higher fluxes were obtained for conductive membrane, exhibiting the effect of the membrane conductivity. Both BSA and membrane are negatively charged. This results in the partial repulsion of BSA from the membrane surface or membrane matrix due to the electrostatic barrier. Repulsion means less concentration polarization and fouling i.e. lower resistivity against the passage through the membrane or higher flux. For conductive membrane higher rejection was obtained compared to non-conductive membrane. This effect is attributed to the conductivity of the membrane. The negatively charged membrane surface acts as a barrier against BSA. A part of the protein is pushed back due to the electrostatic effect. This results in higher rejection.

3 illus, 3 tables, 37 ref

008144   Luthria D L (Fd Composition Lab, Beltsville Hum Nutr Res Cent ARS USDA, Beltsville, MD 20705-3000, USA, Email: luthriad@ba.ars.usda.gov) : Application of green chemistry principles for extraction of phytolipids and phenolic compounds. Indian J Chem-Sect B 2006, 45(10), 2291-6.

A new era of functional foods has resulted in increased interest in the omega-3 fatty acids, phenolic compounds, and other phytochemicals for preventing and controlling the development of cancer, cardiovascular and other diseases. The focus of the research is to evaluate the influence of modern sample preparation technologies for extracting crude fat and phytochemicals from plant matrices utilizing fundamental principles of "green" chemistry. Optimization of extraction procedures using modern technologies significantly reduces the quantity of solvent consumed and waste generated during an extraction process. In addition, automation with modem instrumentation reduces exposure to extraction solvents and their vapour. Describes extraction of two classes of phytochemicals of extreme polarities, phytolipids (hydrophobic) and phenolics (hydrophilic). It compares five extraction technologies (Butt-tube, soxtec, pressurized liquid extractor, supercritical fluid extractor and Ankom batch extractor) for extraction of crude fat from three soy samples. In addition, outlines a systematic approach for optimization of an extraction procedure for isolation of phytochemicals from different plant matrices using potentially bioactive phenolic compounds as a model. Applications of modern extraction technologies, in conjunction with optimized extraction procedures, will enable chemists and chemical engineers to considerably reduce the quantity of solvents consumed and waste generated during the extraction of bioactive phytochemicals from different plant matrices.

2 illus, 2 tables, 26 ref

008143   Kumar A;Singh A P;Singh R (Cent of Fd Sci and Technol, CCS Haryana Agric Univ, Hissar-125 004) : Instantization of Black Gram (Vigna mungo L.) and efficacies of different cooking methods. Ann Biol 2006, 22(1), 79-84.

Attempts were made for development of process for fast cooking of black gram. Black gram (whole) grains were soaked in distilled water and salt solution (1.5% sodium bicarbonate, 0.5% sodium carbonate and 0.75% citric acid) for 12 h. After soaking, the samples of grains were cooked by different types of methods i.e. microwave cooking, steam cooking, pressure-cooking and vat cooking. After that, samples were dried in cabinet and fluidized bed dryers at 60°C. The effects of the main processing steps on the chemical compositions, sensory quality, cooking time and physico-chemical characteristics have been areas of research. The results indicated that water soaked whole black gram dhal showed significant lower cooking time in comparison with salt soaked grains. Cabinet drying was found best suited for drying of pre-cooked dhal. During processing, treatments showed perceived amount of decrease in fats, proteins, ash content and phytic acid. After the culmination of instantization process, the samples were analyzed for different parameters. Steam pre-cooked, black gram dhal had less cooking time, better hardness, less disperson and high hydration. Thus, water soaking steam pre-cooking and cabinet drying were concluded as best treatments for development of quick cooking whole black gram dhal.

79-84

008142   Jayswal A;Chudasama U (Dep of Appl Chem Fac of Technol and Engng, The M.S Univ of Baroda, Vadodara-390 001, Email: uvcres@yahoo.com) : Sorption of water soluble dyes using inorganic materials as sorbents. Indian J chem Technol 2006, 13(6), 539-43.

Ion exchange technique has been used for treatment of wastewater containing dyes. Zirconium molybdatc (ZM) an inorganic cation exchanger of the class of telravalent metal acid salt has been used for the purpose. Sorption of dyes namely crystal violet (CV). methyleneblue (MB) and rhodamine6G (R6G) has been carried out on zirconium molybdate by varying pH and flow rate. The dyes can be effectively recovered by using dilute acids such as HCl, HNO₃ and H₂SO₄. Similar studies have also been carried out using zirconia (ZO) for comparison. Considerable differences in the binding of the dyes tested, have been observed. In general, heteropolycyclic dyes exhibit more affinity towards ZM as compared to ZO.

3 tables, 30 ref

008141   Jadhav H S;Talawar M B;Dhavale D D;Asthana S N;Krishnamurthy V N (Dep of Chem, Univ of Pune, Pune-411 007, Email: mbtalawar@yahoo.com) : Alternate method for synthesis of 1,3,3-trinitroazetidine (TNAZ): next generation melt castable high energy material. Indian J chem Technol 2006, 13(1), 41-6.

The synthesis of 1,3,3-trinitroazetidine (TNAZ) from 2,2-dinitropropane-1,3-diol precursor derived from nitromethane is described. The cyclization of 1,3-dichloro-2,2-dinitropropane in presence of t-butyl amine to t-butylated azetidine ring, followed by its nitration afforded target molecule TNAZ in minimum number of synthesis steps. TNAZ was characterized by elemental analysis, Spectral Energy Dispersive Analyser-X-ray (EDAX) and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) techniques. Thermolysis studies on TNAZ were undertaken using Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Thermo Gravimetric (TG) techniques. The Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) of decomposition products of TNAZ revealed the evolution of oxides of nitrogen and-CN containing species suggesting the cleavage of C/N-NO₂ bond accompanied with the collapse of the ring structure. The sensitivity data obtained for the TNAZ indicated its sensitive nature towards external stimuli (Impact height (h_50%.) for explosion <62> 47 cm; Friction insensitive up to <62> 36 kg). The theoretically predicted performance parameters suggest that TNAZ is energetically superior in terms of velocity of detonation (VOD: 8.6 km/s) and power index (PI: 182) compared to the conventionally used melt castable high explosive 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) (VOD-6.66 km/s and PI-125).

2 illus, 2 tables, 28 ref

008140   Hossain S M;Anantharaman N (Dep of Chem Engng, Mohamed Sathak Engng Coll, Kilakarai-623 806) : Studies on bacterial growth and lead(IV) biosorption using Bacillus subtilis. Indian J chem Technol 2006, 13(6), 591-6.

Gram-positive bacterium Bacillus subtilis biosorbs lead(IV) ion from its aqueous solution. The maximum biosorption of lead is 97.68% (w/w) within 48 h of incubation time with optimum pH 4.5 and optimum temperature 40°C for 700 ppm initial loading of lead in a shake flask (optimum rpm 60). 7 days old and 30% (v/v) of suspension inoculum culture is used in the studies. Lead is measured by using atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS) into an air-acetylene flame and absorbance is measured at 283.3 nm. The maximum bacterial growth is noticed as 4.90x10⁸ cells/mL at optimum bioprocess conditions.

8 illus, 26 ref

008139   Girish Kumar K;Saji John K;Indira C J (Dep of Appl Chem, Cochin Univ of Sci and Technol, Kochi-682 022, Email: giri@cusat.ac.in) : A chloride ion-selective potentiometric sensor based on a polymeric schiff base complex. Indian J chem Technol 2006, 13(1), 13-16.

The fabrication of an ion-selective electrode in which a polymeric schiff base complex of cobalt(II) is used as the ionophore has been described. The main advantage of the electrode is that it is mechanically stable upto 3 months. The electrode shows a linear response in the range of 2.5 x 10^-5-0.5 x 10^-1 mol dm^-3. The response time of the electrode is 30 s. The pH range at which the electrode works is 3.8 to 6.8. The electrode was found to be selective towards chloride ion in the presence of ions like Na⁺, Ca²⁺, Mn²⁺, Fe³⁺, Co²⁺, Ni²⁺, Cu²⁺, Zn²⁺, CH³COO^-, NO₃, SO₄^2-, Br- and NO_2-.

2 illus, 3 tables, 30 ref

008138   Folarin O M;Akinhanmi T F (Dep of Chem, Univ of Agric, P.M. B. 2240, Abeokuta, Nigeria) : Antioxidant activity of essential oils of some aromatic plants. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2006, 3(1a), 87-90.

The essential oils obtained by steam distillation from Surinam Cherry (Eugenia uniflora), spider plant (Cleome viscosa), Lemon grass (Cymbopogon citratus), Basil (Ocimum viride) and Ginger (Zingiber officinale) were evaluated for their antioxidant activity. The oils were used in two different concentrations (0.05% and 0.1%) in a refined vegetable oil. The antioxidant activity of the essential oils was followed up by the determination of the acid value and peroxide value of the vegetable oil over a period of 30 days. Surinam cherry showed the highest activity. Lemon grass and spider plant the least while Basil and Ginger intermediate.

2 tables, 10 ref

008137   Dhull N;Singh N;Panghal A;Khatkar B S (Dep of Fd Technol, Guru Jambheshwar Univ, Hissar-125 001) : Study on the effect of pulse flours on quality of biscuits. Ann Biol 2006, 22(1), 75-8.

Effect of replacing wheat flour with dried pea adn red gram flours on the nutritional and sensory quality of the biscuits was studied. Protein contents of biscuits increased as the level of pulse flours increased in the formulations. The protein content increased from 5.1% (control biscuits) to 8.2% and 9.0% with replacement of 30% of wheat flour with dried pea and red gram, respectively. Addition of pulse flour upto 20% did not show significant effect on the texture and flavour attributes of biscuits. Biscuits made with supplementation of red gram flour were harder and required higher compression force. The biscuits made from 10% dried pea scored the highest for texture and flavour. Thickness, diameter and spread ratio of biscuits containing different levels of pulse flours were significantly different from control sample. Sensory evaluation scores suggested that acceptable biscuits could be prepared from wheat flour supplemented with dried pea and red gram flours upto a level of 20%.

3 tables, 8 ref

008136   Chakraborty R;Saha A K;Bhattacharya P (Dep of Chem Engng, Heritage Inst of Technol, Kolkata-700 107) : Determination of thermo-physical properties of freeze-dried foodstuffs. Indian J chem Technol 2006, 13(6), 597-604.

The thermo-physical properties of some important foodstuffs have been estimated and are correlated with temperature and pressure using semi-empirical technique. For determination of thermal conductivities (k) of paneer and mango samples. 'Uniformly Retreating Ice Front' (URIF) model has been used at two different methods of freezing conditions i.e. conventional slow freezing and rapid cryogenic freezing. In all the cases, linear equation expressing k as dependent variable with chamber pressure (P) [ranging from 0.003 to 0.05 mbar] and average temperature of dried layer (7) [ranging from 275 to 295 K] as independent variables has been established. The heat capacity, Cp of different freeze-dried foodstuffs have been determined experimentally using 'Differential Scanning Calorimeter' for a wide range of temperature at specific values of moisture content of practical significance. The equations of the best fit curves are also presented, enabling one to estimate the heat capacity value for freeze dried foodstuff (with specified moisture content) at any temperature within the range of 258 to 319 K.

9 illus, 8 tables, 7 ref

008135   Boghra V R;Borkhatriya V N;Sharma R S (Dairy Chem Dep, SMC Coll of Dairy Sci AAU, Anand-388 110, Email: boghravr@yahoo.com) : Market survey on chemical composition and aflatoxin M1 in processed cheese. Indian J Dairy Sci 2006, 59(1), 37-9.

Five samples of each of the six brands of processed cheese manufactured and sold in India were analyzed for proximate composition and aflatoxin M₁. The maximum variation among the samples was seen for fat (43.75-50.59 per cent on DMB) followed by moisture (44.90-48.68 per cent), protein (21.20-26.05 per cent) and ash (4.18-44.60 per cent) contents. Soluble protein varied from 3.37 to 4.47 per cent. The titratable acidity ranged between 1.305 and 1.980 per cent lactic acid. The pH values of cheese varied from 5.70 to 5.95 and salt content from 1.67 to 2.02 per cent. All the samples confirmed the minimum limit of fat (40 per cent on DMB) as per PFA Rules and all the manufacturers have maintained high fat contents. One sample did not conform to the moisture limit of 47 per cent specified by PFA. The aflatoxin M₁ content ranged from 0.013 to 0.351 ppb. All the cheese samples contained aflatoxin M₁ however, the levels were well below the proposed tolerance limit of 0.5 ppb considered for cheese.

1 table, 17 ref