ALBERT

Notes: Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to express a general review on how best in the present time can one market genetically modified (GM) foods in the face of the controversial arguments faced globally. Despite the importance of marketing, many organizations though they understand its worth, fail to find radical strategic solutions for the problems encountered by their products. In fact most of them find that disclosing GM ingredients will prohibit consumers from buying their products, whilst, the few GM foods that were proactively marketed indicated the potential of effective marketing and successful product placement. Design/methodology/approach - To be able to market GM foods, an understanding of customer value and problems customers envisage is discussed. The paper attempts to provide a general global perspective on consumer's views about these issues and with the help of a conceptual model it attempts to identify some of the problems related with marketing GM foods. Findings - The findings indicate that these products would have to be repositioned as being seen as less risky and more beneficial to consumers in the light that they can be scientifically proven. Originality/value - This research is innovative in the sense it demonstrates an understanding of how to provide customer value for not only consumers who are the ultimate end users but also provides an insight to a broader audience such as manufacturers, agriculturalists and marketing professionals as to what are some of the contributing factors that consumers look for to make an informed choice.

Notes: Purpose - The aim of the paper is to evaluate the microbiological and physico-chemical characteristics of fermented pounded yam, a unique and popular food of the Igbominas of Nigeria. Design/methodology/approach - Fresh pounded yam was prepared in the laboratory by a modification of the traditional method, and then fermented for varying periods of time (0-96hrs), also essentially by the traditional method. Analysis was carried out on the products following documented and established procedures. Findings - Data obtained indicated noticeable increases in the populations of all the groups of microorganisms investigated with increases in fermentation time, except coliforms which declined in population after 24 hours. Heating of the samples after each fermentation interval resulted in significant reductions in microbial populations such that coliforms could not even be detected after 24 hours of fermentation. Lactic acid production, an indication of flavour development, and pH drop were highest at 48 hours of fermentation. The samples also became softer with increases in fermentation period. The heated samples were considered safe microbiologically, since they contained neither coliforms nor faecal coliforms. Research limitations/implications - The consumption of fermented pounded yam is encouraged since it is safe microbiologically and develops a desired flavour, while further research should be carried out on the nutritional benefits. Practical implications - The findings here suggested that adequate heating after fermentation is necessary to eliminate any potential microbial contamination, and for full flavour development. Originality/value - The results of this research contribute to the knowledge of fermented foods, especially those that are indigenous to Nigeria and West Africa.

Notes: Purpose - The aim of the study is to integrate food hygiene into quantity food production systems. Design/methodology/approach - The present study illustrates the concepts of food hygiene and standard operation of food production systems in detail, and it integrates both of these concepts evidencing that an integrated system can be used as a primary function of every establishment with regard to serving food safely. Findings - A successful food hygiene system must consist of four components: maintaining safe conditions for the food from the time of purchasing to the time it is served to the customer, development of hygienic behavior in the employees that come in contact, in any way, with the customers' meal, maintaining clean and sanitary facilities, and application of an adequate Pest Control Management system. Originality/value - By integrating food hygiene into the operational systems, a powerful message will be sent to the personnel; that food hygiene is a primary function of the establishment and must at all times be enforced.

Notes: Purpose - The aim was to look at food-allergic consumers' preferences concerning the development of low-allergen food. Design/methodology/approach - A questionnaire was designed to measure attitudes towards low-allergen food. Data were collected from 20 food-allergic consumers in Austria, Spain and The Netherlands respectively between April and May 2002 using interviewer-assisted questionnaire methodology. Findings - The results suggested that food-allergic consumers are interested in having low-allergen food available, with 70-95 per cent wanting it produced. A total of 89 per cent identified a number of benefits to themselves, including being able to resume eating the food to which they were allergic, and being able to eat all food with no worries, no symptoms and no need to check labels. Fewer disadvantages were mentioned, with 53 per cent identifying no disadvantages. Factors that would encourage or discourage purchase of low-allergen food were also identified with price, quality (particularly taste) and safety being important. Whilst acceptance of low-allergen food produced using genetic modification was reasonably high (55-85 per cent), in general participants would prefer this food to be produced through conventional means. Research limitations/implications - Further research is required with a larger sample, where cross-cultural statistical comparisons can be made. Originality/value This study provides new information about acceptability of low-allergen food which is of use for the food industry when developing such food, benefiting both the industry and food-allergic consumers.

Notes: Purpose - This pilot study seeks to evaluate whether dietary intervention combined with an oral formulation of sodium salicylate, mineral and vitamin supplements (CV247) altered the rate of progression in patients with malignant disease. Design/methodology/approach - A total of 37 patients were recruited from March 2001 to November 2001 and ran to September 2004. All patients had progressive malignancy at trial entry (def: at least two consecutive increases in tumour markers 〉10 per cent or radiological progression). Patients, were recommended a diet rich in fresh fruit, vegetables, low in saturated fats, salt and man-made chemical supplements such as colours and preservatives together with oral CV247 (sodium salicylate, copper gluconate, manganese gluconate and ascorbic acid). Dietary compliance was monitored, from a subgroup, by monthly interviews with the trial dietitian recorded on a linear analogue scale. Quality of life was measured by monthly completion of a Rotterdam symptom check-list questionnaire and tumour progression measured by radiological assessment and/or tumour markers. Findings - The treatment was well tolerated and compliance with the diet was enthusiastic. Of the two patients with progressive metastatic ovarian carcinoma, one had stabilisation in the disease for five months, the other for 20 months. The 28 heavily pre-treated patients (including those with metastatic prostate cancer) had no significant clinical response (52 per cent stabilisation for 3.5 months). Of the seven patients with early prostate cancer (no metastasis or hormonal therapy, with pre-trial increasing PSA), six (86 per cent) had stabilisation of PSA with a mean duration of 17.2 months. Originality/value - This study succeeded in evaluating whether dietary intervention combined with an oral formulation of sodium salicylate, mineral and vitamin supplements (CV247) altered the rate of progression in patients with malignant disease.

Notes: Purpose - Yoghurt consists of approximately 60 per cent of per capita dairy consumption of Iranian people. Iranian dairy factories use commercial starters which are expensive in yoghurt production. Moreover, yoghurt produced by these starters does not completely meet the taste of Iranian consumers. The aims of this study are to produce well qualified yoghurt from isolated native starters and to evaluate microbial, chemical and organoleptic characteristics of products. Design/methodology/approach - The microflora of Iranian native yoghurts were isolated, purified and identified. The isolated strains were used as starter for the production of yoghurts. Sensory evaluation and measurement of pH, acidity and acetaldehyde content of the samples were carried out. Acidity, pH, acetaldehyde content, and microbial population of the best samples were measured during 21 days of cold storage. SPSS software was used for statistical analysis. Findings - During the above mentioned storage period, acidity and acetaldehyde content increased significantly (p?〈?0.05). Significant decreases (p?〈?0.05) were observed in pH and microbial population. No significant difference in organoleptic characteristics (taste, smell and texture) were found after 21 days of cold storage. Originality/value - Yoghurt production by native starter cultures instead of commercial ones is beneficial in respect of both economic and organoleptic aspects. The results indicate that the use of isolated native yoghurt starters in manufacturing yoghurt can be satisfactory and can also be extended to the production of yoghurt on an industrial scale.

Notes: Purpose - Aims to extract Rice bran oil (RBO) from Pakistani cultivar Basmati-385 for efficient use of local rice industrial waste, i.e. rice bran to reduce the import of edible oil and to evaluate the suitability of RBO in baked products by making cookies. Design/methodology/approach - RBO was extracted from stabilized rice bran by solvent extraction. The RBO obtained was analyzed for different quality parameters and further applied into baked products such as cookies at various levels, i.e. 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100 per cent, by gradually replacing normal shortening to check its suitability as a shortening and its effectiveness in extending the shelf life of product due to its natural antioxidants. Five treatments of RBO and normal shortening (NS) (T1?=?100 per cent NS +?0 per cent RBO, T2?=?75 per cent NS +?25 per cent RBO, T3?=?50 per cent NS +?50 per cent RBO, T4?=?25 per cent NS +?75 per cent RBO and T5?=?0 per cent NS +?100 per cent RBO) were used to prepare cookies and 45 days, storage study was conducted. Findings - Various treatments and storage have a highly significant effect on moisture, fat and NFE content of cookies. Protein content of cookies remained unaffected by changing treatments. During 45 days, storage moisture, protein, fat and NFE content decreased significantly. Physical studies revealed increase in width and spread factor of cookies, while thickness was reduced, gradually with the proportionate increase of RBO. There was significant decrease in quality score of cookies for color, taste, flavor, crispness, texture and overall acceptability. Treatment T3 (50 per cent NS +?50 per cent RBO) got the highest score for all the sensory attributes. Practical implications - The present study suggests that T3 (50 per cent NS +?50 per cent RBO) can produce superior quality cookies to prove the effectiveness of RBO as bakery shortening. Originality/value - Although Pakistan is an agricultural country, unfortunately 71 per cent of the country's edible oil requirements are met through the import of edible oil. In the present project the possibility of RBO extraction from local variety was evaluated. In this way, if fully explored, RBO can become the fourth indigenous source of edible oil.

Notes: Purpose - The snacking habits of children can be a cause for concern. Little research has been undertaken on the snacking habits of Mauritian schoolchildren. This study was conducted to identify the popular snacks upper primary schoolchildren (8-12 year old) buy at school. It also aimed at determining the factors that influenced children's purchase of snacks. Design/methodology/approach - Twelve primary schools were selected using stratified random sampling. Thirty children from each school were involved. Data collection methods included an interviewer-administered questionnaire and observation of schoolchildren's snacking habits during lunch-time. Canteen sellers were also interviewed to gather information about the most popular snacks and their cost. Findings - Findings revealed that most of the popular snacks were high in sugar, fat, energy or salt. Snacking habit of schoolchildren was significantly associated with age and gender (p〈0.05). Children's snacking habit seemed to be largely influenced by the cost of snacks, their taste and availability, and the amount of pocket money. Originality/value - Previous studies on snacking habits have focused on lower primary schoolchildren (5-7 year old) and adolescents, while this study has focused on the upper primary schoolchildren (8-12 year old). The findings provide a sound basis for health and education authorities to develop a national policy on the sale of nutritious foods in primary school canteens.

Notes: Purpose - The purpose of this literature review is to examine underlying mechanisms through which soy may affect breast cancer risk. Design/methodology/approach - The approach taken is to summarize the emerging mechanisms of how isoflavones, such as genistein, interact with processes leading to breast cancer. Findings - The key finding of this analysis is that these mechanisms include a multitude of contrasting effects of genistein on estrogenic and non-estrogenic signaling pathways controlling cell growth. Furthermore, several of these mechanisms are also regulated by additional dietary factors, such as omega-3 fatty acids (found e.g. in fish) and various other phytochemicals (factors found generally in plant-based foods). The available mechanistic information supports (i) a potent effect of dietary factors on cell growth and (ii) a synergistic effect of different dietary components, such as soy, fish, and plant-based foods. Practical implications - In conclusion, the practical implication of this analysis is the conclusion that the mechanistic information available at this time does not support a recommendation for an isolated increase in soy to decrease breast cancer risk. Originality/value - This article should be of value for health care providers, nutritionists, and consumers.

Notes: Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to outline some of the benefits and limitations of the new Welsh Hygiene Award Scheme. Design/methodology/approach - The benefits and limitations of the scheme are considered in relation to consumers and the industry. Findings - The Welsh Hygiene Award Scheme appears to be popular with award winners, some of the local authorities and most of the public who are aware of it. It is too early to determine whether the initiative has resulted in an overall improvement in the hygiene standards of businesses. Unfortunately, the initiative does not inform the public of actual standards in food premises. This lack of transparency mainly relates to a lack of information for businesses and the public, limited publicity for the scheme in the media and the evident need to educate the public. Originality/value - It adds to the limited literature on the evaluation of similar initiatives. Given that the FSA is considering the option of launching a national food hygiene award scheme, there is a need to carefully evaluate this and other schemes before finalising options.

Notes: Purpose - The purpose of this literature review is to examine the relationship between soy consumption and breast cancer risk since soy isoflavones, such as genistein, are currently discussed as possible breast cancer-fighting agents in the Asian diet. Design/methodology/approach - The approach taken is to summarize and evaluate the available literature on the effect of soy, and the Asian diet, on breast cancer risk. Findings - A key finding of the current analysis is that the effect of genistein depends strongly on dosage and developmental stage during which exposure occurs. The overall conclusion and value of this comprehensive analysis is that the available evidence does not support a recommendation for increased soy consumption as a breast cancer-preventing agent against the background of a Western diet. Instead, additional general components of the Asian diet, such as fish and plant-based food, may be involved in lowering breast cancer risk. Research limitations/implications - A limitation to drawing final conclusions at this time is that further research is clearly needed to better understand the overall effect of soy and other dietary factors. Practical implications - The practical implication for health care providers, nutritionists, and consumers is therefore a recommendation to avoid isoflavone supplements and enhanced soy consumption alone at this time without an increased intake of the other Asian diet components. Originality/value - This review arrives at new conclusions about the connection between soy and breast cancer that are summarized under findings and should be valuable for health care providers, nutritionists, and consumers

Notes: Purpose - Critical assessment of Government proposals to introduce Healthy Start, the first reform of the Welfare Food Scheme for over 60 years. Design/methodology/approach - Consideration has been made of the changes proposed in the new Healthy Start programme. While credit is given for the advantages in the new scheme, an assessment is made of deficiencies in the new proposals and suggestions made of what still needs to be incorporated into the plans before Healthy Start is launched in 2005. Findings - Sixty years after the wartime Government established the Welfare Food Scheme in 1940, the present Government, proposes to replace the Welfare Food Scheme with Healthy Start amid concerns that early nutrition of many infants and children is not optimal. Many components of the new scheme have been broadly welcomed, but there is considerable disquiet that the proposals fall short of what was proposed by a COMA Scientific Review Panel in 2002. Nutritional problems such as iron and vitamin D deficiency are being largely neglected. The opportunity to include follow-on formula, is being ignored. This will adversely affect the nutrition of infants and children in some of the poorest families in the country. Practical implications - Unless changes are made, an opportunity is being lost because the new proposals fall short of what is desirable. Originality/value - A review has been made of the new Healthy Start scheme for infants, children and their mothers before the scheme is implemented. It is important that revisions are made before the scheme is launched.

Notes: Purpose - Fungal growth on UF-Feta cheese is one of the most important factors of consumer dissatisfaction in Iran. Propionibacterium shermanii metabolites was used as a biopreservative to retard this inconvenient. This research was done to determine the concentration of the metabolite that increases cheese shelf life with no adverse effect on sensory properties. Design/methodology/approach - The cheese was manufactured according to the methods used in the Iranian UF-Feta cheese dairy plants. The metabolite was used in the order of 0.5 and 1 per cent (w/w) of retentate weight. After incubation while reaching the required pH, cheese samples were stored at two temperatures including 4 and 25 degree C in which analysis was done during a period of 90 and 70 days respectively. Effect of the metabolite on shelf life (absence of visible fungi growth), total viable fungi, microbial load, pH as well as sensory properties including taste, odour, colour and overall acceptability was compared with the control (untreated sample). Findings - Results showed that the shelf life duration of the cheese was extended by approx. 35–43 per cent. Total viable fungi was most efficiently reduced using the metabolite but there was no significant differences in microbial load. Addition of the metabolite didn't affect pH of cheese at either temperatures compared with control. Results of sensory evaluation showed that the taste and odour of cheese containing 0.5 per cent of the metabolite was preferred as compare to the others (p〈0.1). The intervension had no effect no effect on colour scores of cheese. The texture of control was better than the others (p〈0.1). Originality/value - In UF-Feta cheese, the presence of fungi represents a major concern for cheese manufacturers. The results indicate that the fungal growth can be minimized using Propionibacterium shermanii metabolites without undesirable effects on sensory properties. The potential of the metabolite to inhibit yeast growth on UF-Feta cheese was a new finding in this research.

Notes: Purpose - Wheat is considered nutritionally poor, due to deficiency of essential amino acids such as lysine and threonine, whereas fenugreek (Trigonella faenum graecum L.) flour has a high protein content (25 per cent), lysins (5.7g/16gN), soluble (20 per cent) and insoluble (28 per cent) dietary fibre besides being rich in calcium, iron and beta-carotene. Fenugreek seeds contain 20 per cent soluble fibre (gum), which can act as functional agent in wheat dough. The presence of bitter saponins in fenugreek seeds limits their acceptability in foods. However, it has been possible to debitter fenugreek seeds by using various domestic processing methods. Therefore, their use can be exploited as functional and nutritional food as well as therapeutic agents. Hence, in the present study efforts have been made to develop wheat-fenugreek-based health bread. Design/methodology/approach - In commonly grown varieties of wheat, namely WH-423, and fenugreek namely Pusa, early bunching was obtained. Fenugreek seeds were divided into three portions. One portion was left unprocessed (raw), while the other two portions were soaked (12hr at 37?C) and germinated (48hr at 37?C) separately. Soaked and germinated samples were dried at 55-60?C. Dried samples of raw, soaked and germinated seeds were ground to fine powder. Fenugreek seed powder (raw, soaked and germinated) was blended separately with wheat flour at different levels, namely 5, 10, 15 and 20 per cent. Breads from control and supplemented flours were baked in replicates. Baking, organoleptic and nutritional characteristics were analysed in the control and supplemented breads. The data were statistically analyzed in complete randomized design for analysis of variance according to the standard method. Findings - Supplementation of wheat flour with fenugreek flour from 5 to 20 per cent levels increased the protein, lysine, minerals and fibre contents of bread. Additions of fenugreek (raw, soaked and germinated) up to the level of 15 per cent produced bread with a satisfactory loaf volume and other sensory quality attributes (crumb colour, crumb texture, taste etc.), whereas the 20 per cent level of supplementation caused a depression effect in loaf volume and the breads were found to be bitter in taste, However, among the various supplemented breads, germinated fenugreek flour-supplemented bread at 15 per cent level showed satisfactory baking and organoleptic characteristics and contained an appreciable amount of protein (24 per cent), total lysine (3.02g/100g protein), dietary fibre (12.04 per cent) and minerals. Practical implications - Fast food are becoming as popular, as in developing countries. Keeping this fact in view, in the present study, health breads were prepared. The developed product had good acceptability, was nutritionally rich and had therapeutic value. So, these can be considered for commercialization. Originality/value - As fenugreek seeds contain 20 per cent soluble fibre (gum), and 5.7g/16gN lysine contents, the soluble fibre of fenugreek seeds has been reported to reduce blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Therefore, their use can be exploited in the development of health foods.

Notes: Purpose - The purpose of this review is to examine the effect of nutrition on mental functions of children and adolescents. Design/methodology/approach - The approach taken is to evaluate published research on key dietary factors, including recent, rigorously designed supplementation studies. Findings - The result of this analysis is that nutrition has potent effects on brain function. It is concluded that protein, iron, iodine, and the consumption of breakfast all impact on a child's learning capability and behaviour. Moreover, recent research has identified additional, potent roles of micronutrients, such as essential fatty acids, minerals, and vitamins, in the prevention of learning and behavioural disorders. Among the latter, this review focuses particularly on attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Research limitations/implications - While several controlled supplementation trials with supplementation are now available, the limitation of the present analysis is that more large-scale trials are needed before final conclusions can be reached. Practical implications - The practical implication of this review for health-care providers, nutritionists, teachers, and parents at this time is that enough promising evidence has be accumulated to warrant a recommendation to include adequate levels of minerals, vitamins, essential fatty acids, and other nutrients in children's diets to improve learning and behaviour. Originality/value - This review is unique in its comprehensive nature and provides a synopsis of the power of diet in influencing learning and behavior for professionals and parents.

Notes: Purpose - To develop a method for the preparation of micaceous zinc ferrite (MZF), anticorrosive pigment having desirable chemical and physical properties. Design/methodology/approach - MZF pigment was prepared after firing the oxidised solid molten salts without washing. The MZF pigment obtained was characterised using X-ray diffraction analysis, crystal size analysis, scanning electron microscope and energy dispersive X-ray analysis. The pigment obtained was also evaluated chemically with respect to moisture content, content of water-soluble salts, hydrogen ion concentration (pH) and weight loss; and physically with respect to particle shape, colour, specific gravity and oil absorption. Commercially available micaceous iron oxide and zinc ferrite pigments were also characterised in comparison. Findings - A spinel, MZF pigment was prepared using relevant oxidised solid molten salts. The preparation produced a lamellar structure with a basic nature giving not only barrier protection but also chemical passivation of the substrate. Research limitations/implications - The anticorrosive properties of the pigments obtained could be evaluated using more conventional methods such as salt-spray test. Practical implications - The pigment prepared could be used as a highly efficient pigment for anticorrosion coating for steel. Originality/value - The method for the preparation of MZF pigment was novel. The pigment obtained could be used in various resin systems to produce anticorrosive paints for steel protection.

Notes: Purpose - To evaluate the efficiency of complex esters as plasticizers in polyvinyl chloride plastisols and plasticates. Design/methodology/approach - Several poly(vinyl chloride) plastisols and plasticates were prepared with standard phthalate plasticizers and complex esters and were characterised using standard and laboratory methods. Findings - The use of mixtures of three new CE with standard phthalate plasticizers increased the physical, mechanical and electric characteristics of the resulting PVCPs and PVCPl. Research limitations/implications - The use of three new CE, obtained by esterification of dicarboxylic acids (adipic, sebacic, pelargonic), poly(ethylene glycol) and i-octanole, as plasticizers of poly(vinyl chloride) plastisols and plasticates was investigated. The use of CE based on other organic acids could be explored. Practical implications - The results confirmed the efficiency of plasticization of PVC by CE. Such a finding has significant industrial implication. Originality/value - Several findings are original and are of importance to relevant industry. The new CE with high molecular weights were effective plasticizers of PVC. The efficiency of the plasticizers depended on their chemical structure. The molecular weight of the CE had no influence on the compatibility of plasticizers and other components of the PVC plastisols and plasticates.

Notes: Purpose - To prepare and characterise organotin polymers via a new synthetic route by exchange reactions of poly-N-acryloyloxy- and poly-N-methacryloyloxy-tetrabromophthalimide with hydroxy- and aminotri-n-butyltin benzoates. Design/methodology/approach - Preparation of N-acryloyloxytetrabromophthalimide (NATP) and N-methacryloyloxytetrabromophthalimide (NMTP) by the reaction of N-hydroxytetrabromo-phthalimide with acryloyl or methacryloyl chloride. The exchange reactions of the resulting polymers with amino and hydroxytri-n-butyltin benzoate were carried out. The structure of the resulting compounds was characterised. Findings - NATP and NMTP were prepared by the reaction of N-hydroxy-tetrabromophthalimide with acryloyl or methacryloyl chloride in the presence of TEA. The monomers prepared were easily polymerised. The exchange reactions of poly-NATP and poly-NMTP with amino and hydroxytri-n-butyltin benzoate were studied. The structure of the polymers and copolymers prepared was confirmed by tin analysis, IR and 1HNR spectroscopy. Research limitations/implications - The new monomer described in the present investigation may be useful for the preparation of organotin polymers by a new synthetic route. Also, the organotin polymers prepared had good film properties and were suitable for film formation. Practical implications - The method for the preparation of monomer is simple and the exchange reactions provide a simple and practical solution for preparation of some classes of organotin polymers and copolymers. Originality/value - The method of preparation of organotin polymers was novel and may be useful for preparation of other organotin polymers and copolymers.

Notes: Purpose - Several solid solution combinations of aluminium oxide and iron oxide, for the preparation of a new pigment, were investigated to study the effect of aluminium oxide to iron oxide ratio on various properties of the resulting pigments. Design/methodology/approach - The conditions for the preparation of the pigments via solid solution interaction at 1,000°C had been estimated. Characterisation of three different combinations of aluminium oxide and iron oxide were carried out using spectroscopic methods of analysis via X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission and scanning electron microscopy (TEM and SEM). Also, evaluation of the pigments prepared, in terms of oil absorption, specific gravity, water-soluble matter, and pH, using international standard testing methods was performed. The pigments prepared were incorporated in anticorrosive paint formulations based on medium oil alkyd resin as a binder. The physico-mechanical properties of the relevant paint films were obtained, while their anticorrosive properties were assessed by tests in 3.5 per cent NaCl solution for 28 days. Findings - The results showed that the anticorrosive protection properties of the pigment prepared were better than their aluminium and iron counterparts. Research limitations/implications - The pigments prepared may be used in different applications other than paint formulations. As the concentration of iron oxide increases, the hardness and the anticorrosive protection performance of the paint film increase. As the concentration of aluminium increases, elasticity, impact resistance and ductility also increase. Application of different combinations of these pigments in paint films had been studied. However, investigation of the application of these pigments in other systems such as plastics could also be interesting. Practical implications - The pigments prepared can be used as reinforcing filler in different rubber and plastic composites, beside its ferro-magnetic properties. As the concentration of alumina increased, the reinforcing and magnetic effects decreased and vice versa. Originality/value - Iron oxide is an abundant ore in several world countries; it is an inorganic, environmentally friendly material, which exhibits good Moh's hardness. Adding aluminium oxide which is a very light element having a unique flaky structure to iron oxide gave a new pigment that can be used not only in paint formulations, but also in rubber and plastic composites as reinforcing fillers.

Notes: Purpose - To evaluate the competing reaction of isocyanate with cellulose and water which can provide direction for further studies on bonding and curing reactions of isocyanate with wood. Design/methodology/approach - Two modern analytical techniques, Fourier transform infra-red (FTIR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), were used. The FTIR was used to identify the products of the reaction of phenyl isocyanate (PI) with alcohol, water, and cellulose; while the XPS was used to evaluate the proportions of isocyanate that reacted with water or cellulose when PI reacted with cellulose at different moisture contents (MCs), respectively. Findings - Methods for the IR identifications of reaction results of PI with n-propanol, water, and cellulose, in which the reactions of PI with water and PI with cellulose resulted in N,N'-diphenylurea and carbamate, respectively, were developed. It was discovered that the extent of reaction of isocyanate and cellulose decreased with increasing cellulose MC, and 92.98 per cent isocyanate reacted with water when 9.78 per cent MC was reached. It was confirmed that the products of the PI reaction were distributed mainly on the surface of the cellulose particles. Research limitations/implications - The study only focused on the reaction of PI. However, the industrial isocyanates, e.g. methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI), polymerized methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (p-MDI) that have complexities in chemical structures and components, make analyses with FTIR and XPS impossible. Practical implications - The paper provides some instructive information about the isocyanate reaction that will help understanding the characteristics of isocyanate and guiding the design of technology bonding isocyanate to fibre, wood, etc. Originality/value - The application of FTIR and XPS for evaluating the reaction of isocyanate with cellulose having different MCs was novel and may be used as a reference for other relevant studies.

Notes: Purpose - Preparation of new organotin polymers via a new synthetic route based on the exchange reactions of pentachlorophenyl acrylate or methacrylate with amino-tri-phenyltin benzoates or hydroxyl-tri-phenyltin benzoates. Design/methodology/approach - The pentachlorophenyl acrylate or methacrylate was prepared by polymerisation in solution with azobisisobutyrontrile as a free radical initiator. The polymers obtained were allowed to undergo exchange reactions with amino-tri-phenyltin benzoates or hydroxyl-tri-phenyltin benzoates. The structure of the polymers prepared was confirmed by IR spectroscopy. Films were prepared from purified organotin polymers solution on glass, PVC and tin plates. The release of tin compound from the films, when immersed in aqueous media, was assessed. The concentration of the released tin (ppm) was measured by atomic adsorption spectrophotometer. Findings - The new synthetic route was effective, the organotin polymers prepared had good film properties and the release of tin compounds increased with the content of tin in the organotin polymers. Research limitations/implications - The alkaline resistance of the polymeric films prepared needs improvement. Practical implications - The polymers prepared provide a family of effective polymeric fungicide useful for a number of applications including water sterilisation. Originality/value - The polymers prepared contained pendent triphenyltin moieties which slowly hydrolysed to give fungicidal and antifouling effects.

Notes: Purpose - To evaluate the effects of different levels of quaternised pyrodextrin as wet-end and filler retention aid additives in papermaking. Design/methodology/approach - The pulp furnishes used in this study were a mixture of bleached rice straw pulp with bleached sulphite softwood pulp at a ratio of 60:40. The beaten pulps (never dried) were treated with different grades of modified starch (Pyrodextrins). The results obtained were compared with those of several commercial polymers, such as Accostrength®86, cationic starch and polyacrylamide. Findings - The results obtained from this study showed that addition of 0.3 percent of British Gum (BG) (Degree of Substitution at 0.058) grade pyrodextrin to the pulp slurry, especially in case of kaolin as paper filler gave the most significant improvement in paper properties as well as filler retention. The results obtained also showed that the filler retention and paper properties were better/higher for all pyrodextrins studied than those obtained from both Accostrength®86 and polyacrylamide. Research limitations/implications - Using quaternised pyrodextrins as wet-end additives and filler retention aids improved all mechanical properties of treated paper, except the brightness which decreased very slightly. Practical implications - The grade of pyrodextrins used in this work could be used to improve the physical and strength properties of paper sheets. Originality/value - Different types of pyrodextrin namely, Dexy-84 (D-84), Dexy-86 (D-86) and British Gum (BG) could be used as paper wet-end additives and filler retention aids in paper making processing.

Notes: Purpose - To study the effect of inhibition of new bipyrazole derivatives on the corrosion of steel in HCl media at various temperatures. Design/methodology/approach - In this study, novel corrosion inhibitors, namely bipyrazoles were synthesised and tested as corrosion inhibitors for steel in 1?M HCl. The degree of corrosion was measured using various techniques including weight loss measurements, potentiodynamic polarisation, linear polarisation resistance (Rp) and impedance spectroscopy (EIS). Findings - It was found that 1,5,5'-trimethyl-1H,2'H-3,3'-bipyrazole (P1) gave the best inhibition effect. The inhibition efficiency increased with the concentration of P1 to attain 79 per cent at 10-3?M. Good agreement between the various methods explored was observed. Polarisation measurements also showed that P1 acted essentially as a cathodic inhibitor. The cathodic curves indicated that the reduction of proton at the steel surface was an activating mechanism. P1 adsorbed on the steel surface according to Frumkin adsorption model. Research limitations/implications - The synthesis route offers the possibility of other pyrazolic compounds to be tested in the future. Practical implications - The inhibitory efficiency of P1 increased with the increase of both the concentration and the temperature (in the 298-353?K range). As such, P1 can be used in chemical cleaning and pickling processes. Originality/value - The originality of this work is the synthesis of new inhibitors based on pyrazolic organic compounds.

Notes: Purpose - To evaluate the efficiency of modifying flax fibre using copper ammonia solution for improved dyeability and to optimise the conditions of such a modification. Design/methodology/approach - Treatments of flax fibre using copper ammonia solution were carried out under various conditions, i.e. the compositions of the solution and the length of time for treatment. The dyeability, the dyeing colour depth, the tensile strength and the structure of the untreated and treated flax fibres were characterised. Findings - The modification of flax fabric using copper ammonia solution could improve the dyeability and the dyeing colour depth of the flax fabric. The treatment appeared to reduce the crystallinity and the orientation index of the flax fibre, which was the main cause to the improved dyeability and dyeing colour depth of the flax fabric. The optimum conditions for the treatment were as follows: concentration of Cu2+ at 20?g/L, Cu2+/NH3 ratio at 12?:?1 and time of treatment at 6?min. Research limitations/implications - Whilst effective in improving the dyeability of the flax fibre, the treatment led to a reduction in the tensile strength of the treated flax fabric. Practical implications - The method developed provided a simple and practical solution to improve the dyeability of flax fibre. Originality/value - The method for treatment of flax fibre was novel and could be used for industrial production process.

Notes: Purpose - To prepare modified epoxy resins from resorcinol, cresol and phenol for improved adhesion and chemical resistance. To evaluate the properties of such modified epoxy resins. Design/methodology/approach - Epoxy novolac resins (ENRs) were synthesised by condensing epichlorohydrin with novolacs based on different types of substituted phenols for improving adhesion and chemical resistance. Various compositions were made by incorporating different proportions of polyamide resin. The chemical and adhesive strengths of the conventional epoxy and the modified epoxy resins were characterised. Findings - The modified ENR using substituted phenols showed significant enhancement of chemical and adhesive strengths over the conventional DGEBA resin. The modified ENR had an increased number of glycidyl groups (thus increased functionality) of resin, which was responsible for improved chemical and adhesive strengths over the conventional DGEBA resin. Research limitations/implications - The EPN resins used in the present context was synthesised from phenol, resorcinol and cresol and cured by polyamide resin of different amine values. Besides, it could be synthesised from phenolphthalein p-aminophenol and p-ter-butylcatachol, etc. Practical implications - The method developed provided a simple and practical solution to improving the adhesive and chemical resistance of cured epoxy phenol novolac resins. Originality/value - The method for enhanced adhesive and chemical resistance of cured epoxy was novel and could find numerous applications in surface coating and adhesive.

Notes: Purpose - To investigate the effects of acetylation process as a chemical treatment method to improve the dimensional stability of wood, or as a pre-treatment step to enhance the dimensional stability of wood by impregnates. Design/methodology/approach - Esterification of two species of wood were carried out by vapour and liquid phase acetylation processes. With the vapour phase acetylation process, wood with different acetyl contents were obtained by changing the length of time of treatment. With the liquid phase acetylation, different acetyl content were obtained by changing the acetylating mixture or by activating wood with acetic acid for different periods of time and at different temperatures prior to the acetylation processes. The acetyl content and the conditions of impregnation improving the dimensional stability were modelled and optimised. The success of acetylation process for improving the affinity of wood towards the impregnation was also demonstrated. Findings - Vapour phase acetylation process was preferable over liquid phase acetylation for improving both water resistance and dimensional stability of wood species examined. Liquid acetylating of wood, as a pre-treatment step enhanced the effect of impregnates, especially the linseed oil to improve relevant wood properties. The greater improvement was obtained at 3?h impregnation time and 190°C curing temperature for 1?h. Research limitations/implications - Despite the success in improving the affinity of wood species to novolac by pre-acetylation, increasing the curing time and curing temperature led to deterioration of the water resistance and dimensional stability. Practical implications - Pre-acetylation of the wood provided a practical solution to rendering the natural wood greater water resistance property using commercial impregnates. Originality/value - The method for acetylation of wood prior to impregnation was novel and could be used for inhibiting wood against moisture absorption during storage.

Notes: Purpose - The preparation and characterisation of new bioactive polymeric materials. Design/methodology/approach - New bioactive polysaccharide were prepared by grafting of acrylonitrile onto water soluble starch and then reacting with bioactive heterocyclic rings. The biological activity, against bacteria, of the materials prepared was studied. Findings - Some of the prepared bioactive materials show high disinfecting power against bacteria. Research limitations/implications - The bioactive materials were prepared by grafting acrylonitrile onto starch and then reacting the resulting material with cyanuric acid and 2-aminothiazole. Many other heterocyclic rings that contain tertiary nitrogen atom or amide nitrogen can also be used. Practical implications - The new bioactive materials prepared can be used for disinfecting purposes. Originality/value - Some of the materials prepared were used successfully in killing bacteria, as such, can be used as disinfecting materials.

Notes: Purpose - To evaluate the photochromic performance of photochromic compounds in polymer matrices. Design/methodology/approach - The epoxy resin doped with photochromic fulgide were prepared and the effect of UV irradiation were studied using spectrophotometer. The reversible reaction was effected using white light. The effect of heat was also determined. Findings - A film of fulgide 1-E doped in epoxy polymer was irradiated with UV light (366?nm), the film turned pink. The later colour was switched back to the original colour when the film was irradiated with a white light. The photocoloration and photobleaching obeyed first order rate equations with rate constants being 4.19×10-3?s-1 and 2.86×10-2?s-1, respectively. It was found that the film showed a good fatigue resistance. Another film was preheated at 80°C for 1-4?h. No change in the UV absorption spectra of the film was observed. Similarly, the photocoloration and photobleaching of the annealed film showed first order rate equations with rate constants being 8.77×10-3?s-1 and 4.02×10-2s-1, respectively. Interestingly, the photocoloration and photobleaching reactions of the annealed film were faster than those of the non-annealed film. Research limitations/implications - The epoxy resin doped photochromic fulgides described in the present paper was prepared and studied. The principle of study established can be applied to any type of resin or to any type of photochromic compounds. Practical implications - The photochromic materials developed can be used for different applications, such as coatings and holography. Originality/value - The method developed may be used to enhance the performance of photochromic materials.

Notes: Purpose - To evaluate the corrosion inhibition potential of Datura metel in acid medium on mild steel (MS) with a view to develop green corrosion inhibitors. Design/methodology/approach - Acid extract of the D. metel was studied for its corrosion inhibitive effect by electrochemical and weight loss methods. Using weight loss measurement data, an attempt has been made to probe the mechanism of inhibitive action by fitting adsorption isotherms. Findings - D. metel has been found to show significant corrosion inhibitive effect in acid medium on MS. Inhibition is through adsorption of the phytoconstituents on MS following Tempkin and Langmuir adsorption isotherms. The results of A.C. impedance and polarisation studies correlate well with the weight loss studies. Originality/value - The plant has been investigated for the first time for its corrosion inhibitive effect. The effect has been studied by proven methods. This green inhibitor can find use in the inhibition of corrosion in industries where MS is used as a material of choice for the fabrication of machinery.

Notes: Purpose - Trials to develop environmentally friendly marine paints based on natural materials as replacement for copper and tin compounds for fouling and marine corrosion control. Design/methodology/approach - Green algae, tubeworms in dead powder form and garlic were used as natural anti-fouling components in the paints developed. Electrochemical technique was employed for testing the potential of both tubeworms and garlic in terms of inhibition of steel corrosion in seawater. Marine paint formulations containing each of the three selected natural materials were applied onto PVC and un-primed steel surface, which were immersed in natural seawater for the assessment of their anti-fouling and anti-corrosion properties. The results of visual assessment and seawater analysis were also used for such an evaluation. Findings - Tubeworms act as mixed type inhibitor while garlic affects the potential cathodic process of steel in seawater. Tubeworms-based paint, with 25 per cent in the dry paint film, could protect steel surface from marine corrosion up to 7 months. The paints containing algae and garlic, and the corresponding algae/garlic free paints, resisted slime film formation. Steel and PVC coated surfaces with paint containing algae showed the best anti-fouling potential within the prepared series. Research limitations\implications - The investigation only involved the application of the dead form of green algae and tubeworms as effective pigments in the developed paints. It is recommended that further research should focus on extracting and identifying the active components in each organism against fouling and marine corrosion. Practical implications - The paint formulations developed (containing 25 per cent by weight tubeworms in the paint film) could be used to protect un-primed steel surface against fouling and marine corrosion for a reasonably long duration. Originality/value - The application of one paint formulation on un-primed steel surface for its protection from both fouling and marine corrosion is novel. The electrochemical studies of steel in natural seawater in presence of tubeworms and garlic are original.

Notes: Purpose - To investigate a new approach for the prevention of lignocellulosic composites based on agro-fibres (e.g. sugar-cane bagasse) from the emission of toxic formaldehyde. Design/methodology/approach - Five organic polymer containing nitrogen-urea formaldehyde (UF) adhesive systems were used as bonding agents for bagasse fibres. The environmental performance of the lignocellulosic composites prepared were evaluated in terms of the effect of the organic polymers on the percentage of free formaldehyde in the adhesive system and the adhesion properties (static bending and water resistance properties) of the composite produced, in comparison with that prepared from un-modified UF. The nitrogen content of the polymer and the amount of organic polymers incorporated in the adhesive system were optimised using the 3D response surface methodology and the multi-linear regression technique. Findings - All investigated organic polymers (crude PAM-g-starch, PAM-g-starch, PAM, CE-starch and Cm-starch) were found to enhance the performance of the UF-adhesive for producing environmentally friendly bagasse-composite, whereas the reduction of free-HCHO in UF-adhesive systems ranges from 26 to 100 percent. The performance of the composite produced exceeded the ANSI requirements for Grade H-3 particle-board. Research limitations/implications - Despite the success in improving the performance (mechanical properties and reduction of free-formaldehyde) of the UF-adhesive and agro-composites, the polymers needed to be incorporated at a high percentage (12-20 percent) resulting in reduced water resistance of the product. Further investigation is needed to resolve this problem. Practical implications - The approach developed provided a simple and practical solution to enhancing the performance of waste agro-fibres and commercial amino adhesive in the production of high performance lignocellulosic composite. Originality/value - The organic polymers UF adhesive systems are novel bonding agents for agro-fibres and could be used in timber mills for production of particle-board and medium density fibre-board.

Notes: Purpose - To evaluate the efficiency of modifying epoxy resin using amine terminated poly(ethylene glycol) benzoate (ATPEGB) for improved toughness and to optimise the results of such a modification. Design/methodology/approach - For effective toughening, various compositions were made by incorporating different concentrations of ATPEGB. The impact and adhesive strengths of the unmodified and modified epoxy networks were characterised. Findings - The modification of epoxy resin using ATPEGB showed significant enhancement of impact and adhesive strengths over the unmodified one. The modification caused a chemical linkage between ATPEGB and resin which led not only to a phase separation but also to ensuring the intrinsically strong chemical bonds across the ATPEGB phase/resin matrix interface, which was the main cause to the improved impact and adhesive strengths. The optimum results were obtained at 12.5?phr (parts per hundred parts of epoxy resin) of modifier. Research limitations/implications - The modifier, ATPEGB, used in the present context was synthesised from poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) of molecular weight 600. Besides, it could be synthesised from PEG of molecular weight 200, 400, 4,000, 20,000 etc. In addition, the efficiency of modification of epoxy resin using these could also be studied. Practical implications - The method developed provided a simple and practical solution to improving the toughness of cured epoxy. Originality/value - The method for enhanced toughness of cured epoxy was novel and could find numerous applications in surface coating and adhesive.

Notes: Purpose - Synthesis and evaluation of new naphthopyran and related compounds as ultraviolet absorbers. Design/methodology/approach - The new naphthopyran and related compounds were prepared using new synthesis methodology which gave new derivatives via positions not accessible by traditional methods. Findings - A new method for the preparations of naphthopyran was developed. The naphthopyran compounds prepared had promising UV absorption/protection capabilities. Practical implications - The new compounds synthesised had unique character enabling them to be used in applications such as UV absorber and sunscreen. Originality/value - New method of synthesis and the possibility of using the naphthopyran derivatives as UV absorber in many applications.

Notes: Purpose - To determine the optimal general condition for the synthesis and polymerisation of 2-(N-phthalimido)ethyl acrylate (NPEA), as well as the exchange reactions of poly-NPEA with aminated and hydroxylated compounds as a model compound. Design/methodology/approach - Preparation of 2-(N-phthalimido)ethyl acrylate by the reaction of N-(2-hydroxyethyl) phthalimide with acrylic acid and polymerisation of the resulting monomer. The exchange reactions of the resulting polymer with amines and hydroxy compounds were carried out. The structure of the resulting compounds were characterised. Findings - NPEA was prepared by the reaction of N-(hydroxyethyl)phthalimide with acrylic acid. The monomer prepared was easily polymerised. The reactions of the resulting polymer with amines and hydroxy compounds were studied. In all cases, the exchange reactions were almost practically quantitative, which was confirmed by elemental analysis, IR and 1HNMR spectroscopy. Also, it was clear that poly-NPEA showed a good behaviour as a model compound for a long active polymeric-drug. Research limitations/implications - The new monomer described in the present investigation may be useful for the preparation of polymeric-drug adducts. Also, similar monomeric phthalimides may be synthesised starting from a number of other hydroxy or amino acids, thus providing wider possibilities for the synthesis of pharmacologically active polymers. Practical implications - The method for preparation of monomer is simple and the exchange reactions provide a simple and practical solution to prepare some classes of macromolecular drugs. Originality/value - The method of preparation of polymers was novel and may be useful for preparation of polymeric-drug adducts.

Notes: Purpose - The print fault "dot bridging" reduces the printing press efficiency. This study was designed to find the best combination of materials used in normal production which would reduce or eliminate the problems thus increasing efficiency. Design/methodology/approach - Various statistical methods were used to design the experiments and to analyse the experimental results. The experiment included all of the factors which were considered to have an effect on the "dot bridging" print fault. Findings - The most important conclusion that can be drawn from the results is that the complex interactions between factors included in the process can be characterised. The experiment proved that the problem was not random. The data gathered during the experiment had a direct correlation with the psychometric results. Various factors included in the experiment were found to have a significant influence on print density and print contrast. Contrast and density were selected for analysis as ink film thickness was thought to have an influence on the best looking print samples and the "dot bridging" print fault. Research limitations/implications - The results of the experiment were used to optimise the production process particularly the platemaking technique. Data from further experiments would help to optimise more process parameters. Practical implications - Minitab computer software was used to analyse the results of the experiment thus making it easier to communicate the results to non-scientific production staff. Originality/value - This was the first time that the printer concerned had used a scientific approach to problem solving. The end result for the printer was an increase in production efficiency which saved the printer a considerable amount on money.

Notes: Purpose - To investigate the effects of the temperature of synthesis and of the thermal treatment of zinc chromate on the properties of the zinc chromate pigments. Design/methodology/approach - Zinc chromate pigments was prepared using zinc salt solution, sodium hydroxide and potassium dichromate solutions. The reaction temperature was varied in order to evaluate the effect of the reaction temperature on the properties of the pigment synthesised. The pigment obtained was heated to 10°C above the critical temperature in order to investigate the effect of thermal treatment on the pigment properties. SEM, XRD, XFR and STA were employed for the characterisation of the pigments synthesised. Findings - Reaction temperature had a significant effect on the properties of the resulting pigment. Thermal treatment of the pigment caused the decomposition of the zinc chromate phase to ZnO, ZnCr2O4 and K2CrO4 phases. The glaze containing zinc chromate had satisfactory colour characteristics. Research limitations/implications - The study focused on the preparation and evaluation of zinc chromate as a substitute for praseodymium zircon in glaze. The study could be extended to investigation of similar inorganic pigment for similar purposes. Practical implications - The information on the effects of the reaction temperature of pigment synthesis and of thermal treatment of the pigment is useful for industrial production of the pigment of satisfactory properties. Originality/value - Novel use of zinc chromate as a lower-cost substitute for praseodymium zircon in glaze and understanding of the effects of the production conditions on the properties of the resulting pigment and the glaze.

Notes: Purpose - To study the effect of feldspars as inorganic filler on the mechanical and dielectric properties of epoxy coatings. Design/methodology/approach - Coating systems used were of either filler-free epoxy resin (as reference), or epoxy resin filled with feldspars powder at four different levels by weight. Mechanical properties of the coatings were evaluated via damping hardness and abrasion and impact resistance measurements. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurements were used for the evaluation of the dielectric properties while visual observations of the test panels after salt-spray test were also made. Findings - The addition of 15 per cent w/w feldspars resulted in a formulation giving the most positive results, e.g. improvement of the coating's mechanical characteristics and dielectric behaviour similar to that of filler-free epoxy coatings. Practically comparable to this behaviour was that possessed by coatings with 30 per cent w/w feldspars, while further increase of the feldspars content resulted either in a reduction in the extent of the enhancement of the mechanical behaviour or even in a worsening of both mechanical and dielectric characteristics. Originality/value - Feldspars are the most abundant group of minerals in the earth's crust; it is an inorganic, environmentally friendly material, which exhibits high Mohs hardness. The effects of feldspars in improving the mechanical characteristics of organic coatings, while not causing any reduction in the anticorrosive performance of the polymeric matrix was found through the study.

Notes: Purpose - To evaluate the efficiency of modifying epoxy resin using phenol-nonyl phenol based polymer (PNPF) for toughness improvement and optimise the results of such a modification. Design/methodology/approach - For effective toughening, various compositions were made by incorporating PNPF at different concentrations. The impact and adhesive strengths of the unmodified and modified epoxy networks were characterised. Findings - The modification of epoxy resin using PNPF showed significant enhancement of impact and adhesive strengths over the unmodified one. The modification caused the formation of a chemical linkage between PNPF and resin which led not only to a phase separation, but also to formation of intrinsically strong chemical bonds across the PNPF phase/resin matrix interphase, which was the main cause of the improved impact and adhesive strengths. The optimum results were obtained at 10?phr (parts per 100 parts of epoxy resin) of modifier. Research limitations/implications - The modifier, PNPF, used in the present context was synthesised from phenol, nonyl phenol and formalin using oxalic acid as catalyst. Practical implications - The developed method provided a simple and practical solution to improving the toughness of a cured epoxy. Originality/value - The method for enhancing toughness of a cured epoxy was novel and could find numerous applications in the surface coating and adhesive.

Notes: Purpose - To develop a method based on urea/microwave treatment for improving the dyeability of the flax fibre. Design/methodology/approach - The treatment was carried out under a variety of conditions in terms of the power of the microwave, the time of microwave treatment and the use of urea in the treatment solution. The physical chemical properties of the treated flax fibres were characterised using a variety of techniques including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffractometry, spectrophotometric measurement and tensile measurement. Findings - It was found that the treated flax fibres had significantly improved dyeability. The causes to the improvement of the dyeability of the flax fibre were found to be the increased absorption of dye on the fibre and the increased reaction probability between the dye and the fibre. The procedure for optimum modification appeared to be soaking the flax fabrics in 10 per cent urea solution; treating the fabrics with microwave at 350?W for 2.5?minutes; and treating the fabrics with microwave at 700?W for one minute. Practical implications - The treatment method developed addressed a problem of great concern in textile coloration, i.e. poor dyeability of flax fibre. The method developed provided a practical and effective solution to such a problem. Originality/value - The method of treatment of flax fibre, involving soaking in urea and baking in microwave, for the improvement of dyeability was novel. The method could be adapted for use in industrial scale flax dyeing with satisfactory levels of exhaustion and fixation.

Notes: Purpose - To evaluate the performance of the compatibiliser of epoxidised soyabean oil-free fatty acid prepared on the NBR/EPDM blends compared with maleic anhydride and also to explore the effect of loading the compatibiliser NBR/EPDM rubber blend with unmodified and modified polypropylene fibres on the mechanical properties of the blend. Design/methodology/approach - To achieve desirable rheological and physico-mechanical properties of NBR/EPDM rubber blend, various compositions were made by incorporating different doses of the compatibiliser of epoxidised soyabean oil-free fatty acid prepared and maleic anhydride to form NBR/EPDM blends. The effect of loading the compatibiliser rubber blend with unmodified and modified polypropylene fibres on the mechanical properties of the blend was investigated. Findings - The incorporation of epoxidised soyabean oil-free fatty acid or maleic anhydride into NBR/EPDM blend greatly enhanced their compatibility improved the rheological, as well as physical properties of rubber blends. The addition of NBR to EPDM improved the motor oil swelling resistance of EPDM. Blending of the two individual rubbers without a compatibiliser generally exhibited a non-synergistic effect with respect to the physical properties. The strain energy, tensile strength, Young's modulus and strain at yield varied linearly with composition in the presence of compatibiliser, but deviated from linearity in the absence of compatibiliser. Reinforcement of the NBR/EPDM blend with modified polypropylene fibres enhanced the physical properties more significantly than with the unmodified ones. Research limitations/implications - The compatibiliser of epoxidised soyabean oil was prepared by reacting in situ soyabean oil-free fatty acid with per-acetic acid. Practical implications - The method developed provided a simple and practical solution to improving the rheological and physico-mechanical properties of the NBR/EPDM rubber blend. Originality/value - The method for enhancing rheological and physico-mechanical properties of NBR/EPDM rubber blend loaded with modified polypropylene fibres was very important and showed a synergistic effect and could find numerous applications in the rubber and plastic industries.

Notes: Purpose - To develop a water repellent (WR), rodent repellent (RR) and UV resistant (UVR) formulation for woven nylon tapes to be used in aircraft arrester system. Design/methodology/approach - UVR, WR and RR formulation for woven nylon tapes were prepared using silicone oil as WR, oleoresin (OR) (red chilly extract) and denatonium benzoate (DB) as RRs, carbon black for UV resistance and butyral resin as binder. Findings - Incorporation of silicon oil improved the water repellency of the processed nylon tapes. DB and OR in the formulation protected the tapes from rats. The former showed excellent protection for nylon tapes in the experimental conditions. More than 150 days of protection has been achieved in comparison to 27 days using OR. The presence of carbon black along with silicon oil and DB in the formulation enabled the nylon tapes UVR-WR-RR in a single processing step. The presence of RRs and WRs within the same formulation did not affect each other's performance. Research limitations/implications - OR and DB were used as RR materials and silicone oil as WR material. In addition, some other RR and WR materials could have been evaluated. Practical implications - The formulation imparts UV resistance, water and rodent repellency to the nylon tapes after processing. Originality/value - This type of formulation is novel for processing of nylon tapes to be used in aircraft arrester systems.

Notes: Purpose - To prepare of fine particle size magnesium ferrite pigments by sol-gel method. Design/methodology/approach - Different magnesium ferrite pigments with stoichiometric ratios were prepared by sol-gel and dispersion methods. The characterisation of magnesium ferrite pigments were based on X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscope, particle size distribution, thermal and magnetometric analyses. Findings - The type of polymer and the starting inorganic materials (oxides or salts) have a significant effect on the properties of the magnesium ferrite pigments prepared. Research limitations/implications - The magnesium ferrite pigments, prepared and used in the work reported here were synthesised from magnesium and iron oxides, oxalates and chlorides. Urea formaldehyde resin and acrylic polymer were used as the dispersing media. Various other materials, e.g. carboxymethyl cellulose, ethoxy methyl cellulose, polyvinylalcohol and 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate and polyacrylamide can also be used to achieve similar effect. Practical implications - The sol-gel method provided a fine particle size and different particle shapes. Therefore, the method of preparation could be used to produce fibres, films and monoliths. Originality/value - The magnesium ferrite pigments prepared could be use in numerous paints for steel protection.

Notes: Purpose - To investigate the efficacy of Telfaria occidentalis extract as a corrosion inhibitor for mild steel in 2?M HCl and 1?M H2SO4 solutions, respectively, and to assess the effect of temperature and halide additives on the inhibition efficiency. Design/methodology/approach - Corrosion rate was monitored by careful volumetric measurement of the evolved hydrogen gas at fixed time intervals. Inhibition efficiency was determined by comparing the corrosion rates in the absence and presence of additive. Attempts were made to elucidate the inhibition mechanism from the trend of inhibition efficiency with temperature. The adsorption mode of inhibiting species in the extract was assessed by considering the influence of both acid and halide ions on inhibition efficiency. Findings - Telfaria occidentalis extract inhibited mild steel corrosion in 2?M HCl and 1?M H2SO4 solutions. Inhibition efficiency increased with extract concentration but decreased with rise in temperature. Synergistic effects increased the efficiency of the extract in the presence of halide additives in the order KCl〈KBr〈KI. Protonated species in the extract composition played a vital role in the inhibiting action. Originality/value - This paper provides new information on the inhibiting characteristics of Telfaria occidentalis extract under the specified conditions. This environmentally friendly inhibitor could find possible applications in metal surface anodising and surface coatings.

Notes: Purpose - Preparation of chelating resin to be used in the removal of heavy metal ions from solutions. Design/methodology/approach - Chelating resin based on poly (glycidyl-methacrylate-co-N, N-methylene-bis-acrylamide) containing ethylenediamine was synthesised and used in removal of heavy metals from solutions. Findings - The optimal pH values for adsorption of different metal ions occur in the range 4.0-10.0 depending on the metal ion used. The adsorption of metal ions increases with increasing treatment duration to reach to the equilibrium state. Also, the adsorption of metal ions depends on the degree of cross linking of the chelating resin, and a higher degree of cross linking results in a lower degree of metal ion adsorption. The chelating resin was highly effective for the collection of metal ions by batch and column methods. The metal ions adsorbed could be eluted with 2M HNO3 except Co2+ and the resin could be reused. Research limitations/implications - The different factors affecting the metal ions (Cu2+, Co2+, Cd2+, Zn2+, Pb2+ and Hg2+) loading in resin such as pH, contact time and cross linking density were studied. Practical implications - The practical applicability of the chelating resin for final stage of waste water treatment is recommended for use as a polishing agent. Originality/value - The resins prepared were used successfully in removing heavy metals from water.

Notes: Purpose - The study reported here concerned production of green pigments, hydrated nickel(II) silicates and oxides, obtained by precipitation from solutions of sodium metasilicate and sodium hydroxide using nickel(II) sulphate. Design/methodology/approach - The pigments were analysed using a number of techniques including scanning electron microscopy for particle surface morphology and dynamic light scattering for particle structure and the tendency of the particles to agglomerate. Findings - The most desirable physicochemical parameters were shown by highly dispersed nickel(II) silicates precipitated in presence of the modifying agents. Silicate pigments precipitated in the presence of Rokanol K-7 had low bulk densities, a high capacity to absorb water, dibutyl phthalate and paraffin oil within the primary particles, which is particularly noteworthy. Practical implications - Due to their good dispersibility, well developed surface and appropriate coating power, coloured silicates of, e.g. chromium(III) and nickel(II) may be used as pigments and fillers for surface coatings. Originality/value - The method of obtaining nickel(II) pigments developed was novel and provided a solution for problem of post-galvanic nickel solutions.

Notes: Purpose - Probiotic fermented foods are fast being recognized as health foods. Most of such developed foods are based on dairy products and much less work is available on cereals/legumes which constitute the staple diet in developing nations. In the present study an attempt has been made to develop a barley-based probiotic fermented food mixture and report its acceptability and nutritional profile. Design/methodology/approach - Indigenously developed BCGT food mixture containing barley flour, milk coprecipitate, sprouted green gram paste and tomato pulp (2:1:1:1, w/w) was autoclaved (1.5kg/cm2, 15min., 121?C), cooled and fermented with 2 per cent liquid culture (containing 106 cells/ml broth). Two types of fermentations were carried out i.e. single culture fermentation [?L. casei, L. plantarum (37?C, 24hr.)] and sequential culture fermentation [S. boulardii (25?C, 24hr.)+L. casei (37?C, 24hr.); S. boulardii (25?C, 24hr.)+L. plantarum (37?C, 24hr.)]. The lyophilized and rehydrated food mixtures were subjected to organoleptic and nutritional evaluation. The data were statistically analysed for analysis of variance in a completely randomized design according to standard methods. Findings - All the fermented and lyophilized food mixtures were found to be organoleptically acceptable to human palate and maintained adequate cell viability. The pH of the fermented products varied from 4.13 to 4.55. They had good nutrient profile with crude protein content ranging from 20.87 to 21.81 per cent. Practical implications - Since the developed product had good acceptability after one month storage at room temperature, it can be considered for commercialization after establishing its health/therapeutic implications. Originality/value - Till date dairy foods have preferentially been used as the carrier medium for probiotics. This paper explores the possibility of using staple foods as the carrier medium. The consumption of such food mixtures may be useful in controlling pathogens/antibiotics induced diarrhoea as well as in hypercholesterolemia. To authenticate such claims, the results of trials carried out on mice in our lab shall be reported in future communications.

Notes: Purpose - The paper is a review of current research on phytochemicals and how they may alleviate type 2 diabetes by improving insulin activity in the body. Design/methodology/approach - Literature searches were conducted to find a link between common household spices and type 2 diabetes. Only common household spices were researched so that any link found between spices and type 2 diabetes could lead to practical home-based recommendations for changes in a person's diet. Findings - Cinnamon, garlic, ginger, basil, oregano, nutmeg, tea, bay leaf, allspice, curry, and others were found to play a role in lowering blood glucose, increasing insulin sensitivity, and increasing glucose synthesis in response to food intake. In addition, these spices may improve blood circulation, decrease platelet aggregation, lower blood pressure, and act as blood vessel protectants, ameliorating the cardiovascular disease often associated with type 2 diabetes. To gain these benefits, only average amounts commonly used in foods are necessary, such as amounts usually sprinkled in foods or amounts used in recipes. At high concentrated doses, the advantages to utilizing spices may be inhibited. Originality/value - The findings that phytochemicals in common household spices can improve insulin activity in the body present a more natural way to possibly treat and prevent type 2 diabetes.

Notes: Purpose - In Nigeria, the mango fruits consumption rate is high during its peak period and this has always resulted in environmental sanitation problem because the mango seeds are thrown to the surroundings immediately the fruits are eaten. Finding more useful application of the kernel would be a way to reduce the environmental pollution. Mechanical decortication of the leathery mango stone remains the only viable option that can support any prospected commercial uses of the mango kernel. Design/methodology/approach - The decorticator consists of a hopper, a decorticating chamber, spiked shaft, screen shaker and discharge spout. The machine performance was evaluated in terms of decorticating efficiency, mechanical damage and sieve loss. Findings - Results of the evaluation show that the optimum performance of the decorticator was at a speed of 900rpm, feed rate of 250kg/h and power requirement of 2.50kW. Originality/value - Mango stones are useful as substitute for maize in finishing broiler diets. The kernel is also used for medicinal purposes in moderation of anti-bacterial and anti-fungal activities. Therefore, the designed mango stone decorticator enhances the complete mechanization processes of mango products.

Notes: Purpose - Iron deficiency is the number one nutritional disorder in the world and is quite common in Pakistan. Iron deficiency anaemia may result from a low dietary intake, inadequate intestinal absorption, excessive blood loss, and/or increased needs. While iron overload is also responsible of number of diseases. The normal iron status of our body is usually maintained by controlling amount of iron absorbed from food. The recommended daily allowance (RDA) for adult male and female in the age from 19 to 50 years is 8 and 18mg, respectively. While RDA above 50 years is it for both genders i.e. 8mg (NIH, 2002). Nutritional status of dietary iron was estimated to combat the iron related diseases in Pakistani population. Design/methodology/approach - Food samples were collected from major cities/districts of the country using market basket method. Daily diets were prepared and analyzed for iron contents using Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS). Findings - An average value of iron concentration was measured to be 52±15µg/g, which leads to an average daily dietary intake of 31±9.5mg/d, with a variation of 12 to 52mg/d. The estimated values of our daily iron intake are about 2 times higher than the recommended daily allowance set by international committee of radiological protection (ICRP) and US food and nutrition board (FNB). Apparently our diet seems enriched in iron contents. But its bioavailability may be low due to dietary composition. Major portion of our diet is based on plant food (71 per cent), followed by milk products (17 per cent) and other miscellaneous items, whereas consumption of animal food is only 5 per cent. This dietary composition and our food intake habits in the presence of iron inhibiters (i.e. phytate in plant food, tannin and polyphenols in tea and calcium) could be the leading cause of iron deficiency anemia among the Pakistani population. Originality/value - Iron deficiency anemia is quiet common and cause of concern in Pakistan. The findings of the study indicate that bioavailability of iron to Pakistani population can be enhanced/improved with slight alterations/adjustments in dietary habits.

Notes: Purpose - This paper examines the attitudes of young Greek University students towards genetically modified (GM) foods and studies the effect of appropriate information in shaping this attitude. Design/methodology/approach - A questionnaire was distributed to 433 Greek students of the Technological Educational Institute of Athens during the academic year 2003-2004. Results were processed by SPSS 11.0. Findings - The survey reveals that although Greek University students are more informed than the general population about genetic modification issues, still a large proportion (48 per cent) are unaware of what is exactly a GM plant and 55.3 per cent believe that GM foods may impose risks for public health and the environment. However, after reading a short informative statement the "negative" attitude of respondents is decreased by 15.5 percentage units and the "positive" attitude is increased by 13.2 percentage units. These results show that appropriate information could affect the acceptability of a technological innovation. Future research is required to investigate how scientists could intervene in order to make the GM issue clear on a scientific basis. Originality/value - The findings of this study could be useful to those who are seeking to elucidate the complex issue of GM food acceptance and have an interest in establishing communication between the scientific community and the public, such as regulatory authorities, the industry or academics.

Notes: Purpose - Unleavened flat bread (chapatis and rotis) is staple food of the Pakistani population. Almost 90 per cent of wheat produced in the country is used for chapatis and roti preparation. Present study was carried out to prepare composite flour, assess suitable level of composition. The main aim was to increase the mineral content of the diet, as they are deficient in the diet of the Pakistani people as for other developing countries. Design/methodology/approach - Composite flours were prepared by replacing wheat flour with 8, 16, 24, 32 and 40 per cent soy flour. Composite flour and chapatis were analysed for mineral and phytate contents. Sensory evaluation (color, flavor, taste, texture, folding ability and chewing ability) of chapatis was also carried out to assess acceptance of suitable level by the consumers. Findings - The statistical analysis of data obtained showed significant increase in minerals (Fe, Zn, Cu, Mn, Ca and Mg) and phytic acid content of flour. Significant decrease in phytate was found during the baking of chapatis. Chapatis were found acceptable by the panel of judges up to 24 per cent supplementation of soy flour. To combat mineral deficiency in developing countries composite flour technology can use as replacement of mineral salts fortification. As in case of composite flour natural source of nutrient are used. Practical implications - Soy supplementation of wheat flour can be successfully done through flourmills and small-scale grinders as it causes no problem in milling operations. Originality/value - The research carried out is one of outstanding type as no such research was done earlier. Phytate besides minerals was also given due consideration in same study which is one of chelating agent found in plant source of minerals.

Notes: Purpose - To enlighten the food consumers and drug users as to some of their incompatibilities. Design/methodology/approach - Examples from the literature covering compositions of food-drug, food-drug interactions, and dietary habits were collected from former works. Findings - Major side-effects of some diet(food) on drugs include alteration in absorption by fatty, high protein and fiber diets. Drugs such as methateiate, pyrimethamine, isonicotinic acid and asprin alter the transportation of some nutrients. Nutrient supplementations was found to be beneficial. Research limitations/implications - Possible factors affecting the reactions need to be identified. Practical implications - It helps food consumers and drug users to avoid using some of these materials and also to adopt nutrient supplementation as a better alternative where possible. Originality/value - The knowledge helps food technologists, nutritionists, physicians and pharmacists to serve the public better.

Notes: Purpose - In Brazil there is a lack of food composition data and the nutrition professionals frequently need to consult compiled tables of international reference. It is known that the extrapolation of international food data to the regional level is not accurate and requires caution because it may result in nutritional problems. Thus, the purpose of this work was to determine and compare the organic-mineral content of the main Brazilian cereals and legumes with those of the available reference in this country. Design/methodology/approach - The chemical composition of the samples was examined according to AOAC methods. The energy value for each sample was calculated using the specific Atwater energy factors. Findings - The moisture as well as lipids and ash content were found to accord with the consulted bibliography for most of the samples. The protein values were the same as those found by some authors and different from others. Originality/value - The results obtained showed the need for elaborating a Brazilian food composition table able to better reproduce the real nutritive value of food produced in this country.

Notes: Purpose - This study aims to evaluate the use of vacuum impregnation (VI) for developing vitamin E fortified fresh-cut apples (Fuji). Design/methodology/approach - A 20 per cent high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) or edible coating materials of 1 per cent hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) and 1 per cent calcium caseinate (CC) were used to make VI solutions, and 0.4 per cent a-tocopherol acetate, 7.5 per cent gluconal cal\tf="Pi3" \char"31 (GC) and 0.04 per cent zinc lactate (ZL) were incorporated into the VI solutions. Vitamin E content, color, and selected physicochemical properties of fortified fresh-cut apples were analyzed. Findings - Results showed that VI treatment with 20?per cent HFCS solution containing 0.4?per cent a-tocopherol acetate increased vitamin E content up to 21.8?mg in 100?g of fresh-cut apples, while 12.0?mg and 20.2?mg vitamin E were achieved when using 1?per cent HPMC or 1?per cent CC as VI solutions, respectively. Calcium and zinc content were also increased to 146.6?mg and 1.7?mg in 100?g of apples, respectively, when adding 7.5 per cent GC and 0.04 per cent ZL along with the vitamin E into the VI solutions. Use of HFCS, HPMC and CC as VI solutions resulted in different effects on the physiochemical properties of fresh-cut apples. While HFCS is promising for vitamin E fortification and retention of natural apple color, HPMC and CC can be used to achieve similar vitamin E fortification with the least impact on the soluble solids and moisture contents of apples. Originality/value - The study demonstrates that there is great potential for developing high quality, vitamin E and minerals fortified fresh-cut apples using vacuum impregnation technology, thus further enhancing the health benefit of the apples.

Notes: Purpose - This study aims to address consumer attitudes toward and acceptance of commercial soymilk and dairy yogurts containing varying levels of fat. Design/methodology approach - A convenience sample was used, consisting of 185 students from a university in northern Louisiana. Four yogurts (soymilk yogurt, full fat dairy yogurt, low fat dairy yogurt, and non-fat dairy yogurt) were evaluated. A 9-point hedonic scale was used to evaluate each yogurt for overall acceptance. Questionnaires were used to ascertain consumer knowledge of the benefits of soy, attitudes toward soymilk yogurt and demographic characteristics of subjects. Findings - Acceptance scores for soymilk yogurt were significantly lower than scores for traditional dairy yogurts ( p〈0.0001). Consumer attitudes regarding the health benefits of soy correlated with overall acceptance of soymilk yogurt (r=0.29; p〈0.0001). Results indicate that college students are unaware of the health benefits of soy, and presently prefer traditional dairy yogurt to soymilk-based yogurts. Originality/value - The results of this study provide useful information to nutritionists working with a college-aged population. In addition to promoting healthy, convenient snacks, the education also should include information on the positive aspects of soy and its incorporation in the diet through tasty methods.

Notes: Purpose - In Brazil, studies on dietary fiber consumption are scarce. The greatest difficulty is to obtain reliable data on the fiber content of foods that are part of Brazilians' eating habits, which involves adjusting laboratory methodology. It is extremely important to evaluate the average daily fiber intake on a regional basis, considering the heterogeneous eating habits of the Brazilians. The study aims to estimate the average dietary fiber content of meals eaten in "by-the-kilo" restaurants. Design/methodology/approach - The foods used in the preparation of 1,907 meals consumed during one month in four restaurants in the city of São Paulo were studied. Intake, nutritional composition, and fiber analyses focusing on average lunch intakes were performed based on the RDA and SBAN (Brazilian Food and Nutrition Society) recommendations. Intake and nutritional composition results were compared with the values of a control meal theoretically prepared. A total of 40 samples of preparations using fiber-rich foods were analyzed and their dietary fibers and soluble and insoluble fiber fractions were determined by enzymatic-gravimetric method. Findings - The results showed that a lunch meal alone accounts for 69.2 per cent of the SBAN recommendation and 39.5 per cent of the maximum RDA for dietary fiber. Originality/value - Foods served in "by-the-kilo" restaurants proved to be good sources of fiber, and their insoluble-to-soluble fiber ratios were similar to the recommendations.

Notes: Purpose - This article focuses on some of the reported medicinal values of bitter melon, an exotic vegetable forming part of the cuisine of various countries. Design/methodology/approach - Available data in the literature strongly support the anti-hypoglycaemic properties of Bitter melon. A literature view was carried out and the data were used to validate our findings regarding the effects of extracts of Momordica charantia on uptake of sugar. Findings - Our work adds on to the growing evidence of the anti-diabetic properties of bitter melon. Practical implications - In view of evidence reported in the literature regarding the medicinal properties of vegetables, the importance of vegetables in a well balanced diet should therefore be strongly advocated. Originality/value - This paper adds on to the evidence of the use of Momordica charantia as a medicinal plant in traditional medicine in the control of blood sugar level.

Notes: Purpose of the paper - This paper gives an overview of the prevalence, symptoms, diagnosis and management of coeliac disease and associated disorders. It also gives some background to gluten testing in foods and developments in identification of gluten-free foods at consumer level. Design/methodology/approach - The most up-to-date literature on various aspects of the disease have been considered and included in the report. Findings - Coeliac disease is now known to affect one in 100 of the population, including both adults and children. As more is understood about the pathophysiology of the disease and antibody screening techniques improve rates of diagnosis are increasing. The biopsy is still required for a firm diagnosis. The range of symptoms that is now recognised is far wider than previously thought, but symptoms are still often missed, or mis-diagnosed as IBS. The treatment for coeliac disease is the gluten-free diet, which controls the symptoms and reduces the risk of complications such as osteoporosis and gut cancer. Prescriptions of gluten-free foods are known to improve adherence to the diet, and with the range of suitable foods in supermarkets increasing rapidly, gluten-free living is becoming easier. Originality/value - Information on several aspects of coeliac disease are presented in this paper to give the non-expert a general, up-to-date overview of the disease.

Notes: Purpose - The objective of this study is to examine the dose-response effect of inulin on mineral absorption and faecal short-chain fatty acids concentration in formula-fed infants. Design/methodology/approach - The effects of inulin on faecal short-chain fatty acids and minerals absorption in 36 healthy, formula-fed infants given three different doses of inulin (0.75g/d, 1.00g/d, and 1.25g/d) were studied using complete randomized design. Acetic, butyric, propionic and lactic acids were analysed using gas chromatography. Findings - No significant (p〈0.05) difference was observed in the infant faecal short-chain fatty acids contents during the basal period, the intake period and the washout period. A significant (p〈0.05) increase in per cent apparent absorption, per cent apparent retention and net retention of iron were seen in infants supplemented with 1g/day inulin. A significant (p〈0.05) increase in per cent apparent retention and net retention of Magnesium was also seen in infants supplemented with 0.75, 1 and 1.25g/day inulin. A significant (p〈0.05) increase in per cent apparent absorption and net retention of Zinc was seen in infants supplemented with only 0.75g/day inulin. No significant improvement in calcium, or copper absorption or retention was observed in all the doses of inulin studied. Originality/value - Most previous studies were conducted on adults and adolescents.

Notes: Purpose - This study seeks to investigate the effect of palm-based phytonutrient complex (PPC) on stress-induced gastric lesions and accompanying changes in the gastric acidity and gastrin level. Design/methodology/approach - A total of 40 rats were divided between a control group that was given a vitamin E deficient diet and a treatment group that was given a vitamin deficient diet with oral supplementation of PPC at 60?mg/kg body weight for 28 days. At the end of the treatment period half of the number of rats were subjected to restraint-stress for two hours for four consecutive days. Following stress exposure, blood was taken for measurement of gastrin level, after which all the rats were disposed of. The gastric acid was collected for measurement of acid concentration, while the stomachs were opened along the greater curvature and examined for lesions. Findings - Rats exposed to stress developed hemorrhagic gastric lesions. PPC supplemented rats had fewer gastric lesions compared with their respective control group. Stress without supplementation with PPC also caused a reduction in the gastric acid concentration and the serum gastrin levels. Compared with their corresponding controls, the pre- and post-values of gastric acid and serum gastrin concentration in rats with PPC supplementation remained comparable. Originality/value - Stress is an identified risk factor for the development of gastric lesions. The current study showed that PPC was able to reduce the development of gastric lesions induced by stress and blocks the stress-induced changes in the gastric acid concentration and gastrin level. It is possible that part of the protective effect of PPC in stress is through maintenance of the normal gastrin level, which results in the maintenance of gastrin trophic action in the gastric mucosa.

Notes: Purpose - This study aims to report on the nutritional profile of preschool children of 4 to 5 years. Design/methodology/approach - The data on raw food intake of the randomly selected subjects were collected by 24hr recall method for three consecutive days and the mean was taken. Daily intake of various nutrients by each subject was calculated using MSU Nutriguide and this was further compared with RDA recommended by ICMR to assess the adequacy of their diets. Findings - The analysis revealed that the intake of protein, fat, calcium, thiamine, folic acid and vitamin B12 was more than or equal to Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs) as recommended by the Indian Council of Medical Research, while the intake of energy, iron, vitamin C, niacin and riboflavin was less than their respective RDAs. The intake of ß-carotene was marginally adequate. Boys consumed significantly more amount of energy and folic acid than girls. Research limitations/implications - A large number of samples could not be taken owing to practical difficulties. Originality/value - The study is original and innovative. The findings are useful for the policy makers and nutritionists who have to implement supplementary feeding programmes.

Notes: Purpose - The aims of the paper are to improve the dynamic response of an induction motor based position servo system and to remove the chattering problem in the sliding mode control theory by using fuzzy logic principles. The obtained results are also compared with conventional sliding mode controller to show its performance. Design/methodology/approach - The main method used for the research is to form a thin boundary layer neighboring the switching surface by using fuzzy logic. The sliding mode control law is inherently discontinuous naturally. Therefore, there are some difficulties such as so many switches occurring between the control bounds, which cannot be carried out by real controllers. Therefore, fuzzy logic is used in the thin boundary layer to determine the control signal current. Thus, the chattering is eliminated. Findings - The results show that the designed controller has superior performance. But, there are also some difficulties. It is difficult to obtain fuzzy rules. The rules can be obtained by using genetic algorithms without expert's knowledge. However, sliding surface slope C can be optimized to increase system's dynamic performance. Originality/value - A new boundary layer consisting of the fuzzy rules in the sliding mode control is formed.

Notes: Purpose - Nonlinear dynamical systems may, under certain conditions, be represented by a bilinear system. The paper is concerned with the construction of the controllability and observability gramians for the corresponding bilinear system. Such gramians form the core of model reduction schemes involving balancing. Design/methodology/approach - The paper examines certain properties of the bilinear system and identifies parameters that capture important information relating to the behaviour of the system. Findings - Novel approaches for the determination of approximate constant gramians for use in balancing-type model reduction techniques are presented. Numerical examples are given which indicate the efficacy of the proposed formulations. Research limitations/implications - The systems under consideration are restricted to the so-called weakly nonlinear systems, i.e. those without strong nonlinearities where the essential type of behaviour of the system is determined by its linear part. Practical implications - The suggested methods lead to an improvement in the accuracy of model reduction. Model reduction is a vital aspect of modern system simulation. Originality/value - The proposed novel approaches for model reduction are particularly beneficial for the design of controllers for nonlinear systems and for the design of radio-frequency integrated circuits.

Notes: Purpose - This paper aims at developing a computational technique to take account of the laminated nature of iron cores when computing their eddy current losses. Design/methodology/approach - A method is presented to compute three-dimensional eddy current distributions in laminated media by means of the finite element method. In a first step, the laminated medium is assumed to have an anisotropic conductivity with zero (or very low) value in the direction normal to the laminations. In a second step, the eddy currents within the laminates are computed by solving the quasistatic electromagnetic field individually in each sheet. In these essentially two-dimensional analyses, the boundary conditions are taken from the three-dimensional field distribution determined in the first step. Findings - Comparisons with results obtained from a finite element model taking account of each laminate prove the validity of the method. Research limitations/implications - The method is presented for linear media only. Taking account of nonlinearity is an important future topic. Originality/value - Taking account of the laminations by treating the magnetic field distribution obtained from a homogenised model is a novelty of potential benefit to researchers developing methods of loss computation in laminated media.

Notes: Purpose - Characterisation and use of dielectric materials with high permittivity are one of the most developed areas of research in microwave circuit simulation. This is mainly because of their various applications in VHF/UHF and microwave frequencies (correlators, instrumentation systems, ...). The primary virtue of high-dielectric substrates for microwave circuits is the reduced size. Since the high dielectric microstrip line also exhibit low loss and useful impedance range, this class of circuits will undoubtedly find wide applications in microwave integrated circuitry. Design/methodology/approach - Owing to the complexity of the electromagnetic problem, numerical methods become an indispensable tool for analysis and modeling of electromagnetic structures. They are the basis to set-up computer-aided design (CAD) packages. These models must be accurate, reliable, easily extracted and need limited computational requirements. Since there was a demand for a model able to describe these parameters accurately, an extension of the spectral domain approach (SDA) is proposed for microstrip lines with high permittivity. The analysis is based on the solution of a system of algebraic equations, which are derived from Galerkin's technique in the spectral domain. Findings - Analytical expressions are deduced by curve-fitting techniques. These expressions can be easily implemented in a CAD simulation tool to design wireless communication components. In this paper, we have developed accurate and suitable general expressions for characteristic parameters for a wide range of ?r between 1 and 500. The computed results were compared to those available in the literature when possible. In order to validate our models for high values of dielectric constant (128?〈??r〈500), neural models were generated for the characteristic impedance and effective permittivity. A very good agreement is demonstrated. Originality/value - The originality of this paper consists on the development of design formulas to characterise the microstrip lines with high dielectric constant substrate. Closed form equations are almost non-existent in the technical literature since the available design formulas have been developed only for dielectric media value ?r not exceed 128.

Notes: Purpose - The investigation of the efficiency of optimisation technique based on approximation of objective function by multiquadric (MQ) function, used for induction heating devices was the aim of the paper. Design/methodology/approach - The optimisation package based on Matlab language and using Flux2D commercial program for calculation of electromagnetic and thermal fields was built. It allows the use of different optimisation techniques for induction heating devices, e.g. based on MQ function approximation. In the paper two algorithms of approximated points generating have been tested. Findings - The efficiency of MQ optimisation method strongly depends on the applied algorithm of approximated point generating. To ensure high efficiency of MQ optimisation method, the stochastic element of the algorithm of approximated point generating should have a significant role. Research limitations/implications - The efficiency of elaborated algorithms of MQ function approximated point generating should be proved in other applications. Practical implications - The efficient optimisation technique of induction heating devices has been proposed. Originality/value - The two new algorithms for generation of MQ function approximated points have been proposed. The paper could be useful for designers of induction heating devices.

Notes: Purpose - To produce a controlled stirring in a low conducting liquid thanks to a new kind of multiphase inductor. Design/methodology/approach - An experimental pilot consisting of a cylindrical salt water pool surrounded by an innovative multiphase inductor configuration, based on the single phase asynchronous motor principle, is setup. The maximum bulk stirring velocities are measured and compared with the estimate by numerical modelling. Findings - Shows the possibility of controlling the stirring of a low conducting liquid thanks to a multiphase inductive system. The corresponding measurement results give a significant bulk velocity of a few centimetres per second. Practical implications - This new kind of multiphase inductor, working with a single phase induction generator, seems a promising way to produce a controlled stirring in low conducting media which cover a large range of induction applications. Originality/value - Such an innovative inductor configuration has already been tested successfully for metal alloys stirring in the middle frequency area. In this paper, an extension of this kind of multiphase inductive system for electromagnetic stirring of low conducting liquids like electrolytes in the high frequency area is presented.

Notes: Purpose - Aims to apply the generalized minimal residual (GMRES) algorithm combined with the fast Fourier transform (FFT) technique to solve dense matrix equations from the mixed potential integral equation (MPIE) when the planar microstrip circuits are analyzed. Design/methodology/approach - To enhance the computational efficiency of the GMRES-FFT algorithm, the multifrontal method is first employed to precondition the matrix equations since their condition numbers can be improved. Findings - The numerical calculations show that the proposed preconditioned GMRES-FFT algorithm can converge nearly 30 times faster than the conventional one for the analysis of microstrip circuits. Some typical microstrip discontinuities are analyzed and the good results demonstrate the validity of the proposed algorithm. Originality/value - In the future, some more efficient preconditioning techniques will be found for the mixed potential integral equation (MPIE) when the planar microstrip circuits are analyzed.

Notes: Purpose - This paper proposes an automatic procedure to characterize discrete source fields. Design/methodology/approach - A technique is developed to characterize curl-conform fields to be used as source fields or non-local basis functions in finite element formulations. A reduced characterization of such fields using curl-conform finite elements is defined. An automatic construction of these curl-conform spaces is proposed. Findings - A reduced characterization of such fields is shown to be convenient for the coupling with complementary reaction fields and for simply and explicitly defining non-local quantities, such as currents in h-conform magnetodynamic formulations. The reduced form rests on the choice of supports for the fields limited to reduced cut spaces associated with cuts making the definition domain simply connected. Originality/value - Develops a procedure to simplify the construction of curl-conform source fields.

Notes: Purpose - To investigate the feasibility of a novel scheme of high-efficiency induction heater for nonmagnetic metal billets which use superconducting coils. Design/methodology/approach - The idea is to force the billet to rotate in a static magnetic field produced by a DC superconducting magnet. Since a static superconducting magnet has no losses, the efficiency of the system is the efficiency of the motor used. In order to evaluate the temperature distribution arising from the field profile produced by a given SC coil configuration, a numerical model, based on an equivalent electric network with temperature-dependent parameters, is developed. Findings - A substantial independence of the shape of the temperature profile on the angular velocity and the value of the uniform magnetic field applied, is observed. A strong temperature gradient is observed in the radial direction in the proximity of the penetration front and in the axial direction at the top and bottom surface of the billet. Small temperature gradient was observed in the central part of the billet. Research limitations/implications - The reported temperature profile is inadequate for an actual extrusion process which is desired to happen at a constant temperature. The appropriate profile along the billet length can be achieved by a suitable axial shaping of the magnetic field, through the optimization of the coil layout, whereas the undesired radial gradient can be reduced by interspacing the rotation with temperature smoothing intervals. Practical implications - The investigation of the profile of applied magnetic field and the heating procedure which allow to achieve the distribution of temperature suitable for the extrusion process can be carried out by using the present model. Originality/value - A high-efficiency induction heater for nonmagnetic metal billets using superconducting coils in a novel scheme is investigated.

Notes: Purpose - On the basis of the maximum entropy principle, seeks to formulate a hydrodynamical model for electron transport in GaAs semiconductors, which is free of any fitting parameter. Design/methodology/approach - The model considers the conduction band to be described by the Kane dispersion relation and includes both G and L valleys. Takes into account electron-non-polar optical phonon, electron-polar optical phonon and electro-acoustic phonon scattering. Findings - The set of balance equation of the model forms a quasilinear hyperbolic system and for its numerical integration a recent high-order shock-capturing central differencing scheme has been employed. Originality/value - Presents the results of simulations of n+?-n-n+ GaAs diode and Gunn oscillator.

Notes: Purpose - Presents a technique based on the development of an artificial neural network (ANN) model for predicting the electromagnetic inference effects on gas pipelines shared right-of-way (ROW) with high voltage transmission lines. Design/methodology/approach - Examines the induced pipeline voltage under different soil resistivity, fault current and separation distance. Findings - The results indicate strong agreement between model prediction and observed values. Originality/value - Demonstrates that the ANN-based model developed can predict the induced voltage with high accuracy. The accuracy of the predicted induced voltage is very important for designing mitigation systems that will increase overall pipeline integrity and make the pipeline and appurtenances safe for operating personnel.

Notes: Purpose - To present a new parallel method for solving differential equations that describe transient states in physical systems. Design/methodology/approach - The proposed speculative method first solves a differential equation with a large integration step to determine initial data for parallel computations in sub-intervals of time, then speculatively computes in parallel solutions in all the sub-intervals with a smaller integration step and finally composes the final solution from the speculatively computed ones. The basic numerical method applied is the well-known Runge-Kutta algorithm. Findings - The speculative method allows important reduction of the computation time of sequential algorithms. The speed-up of the speculative method that we propose, as compared to the sequential execution, depends on the number of sub-intervals that are defined inside the total analysed time interval. The speed-up increases almost linearly with the number of sub-intervals. The good accuracy of computations in the presented example was obtained. Research limitations/implications - The proposed method can be applied to non-linear systems without discontinuity points and to stable systems (i.e. systems insensitive to the selection of initial conditions). Practical implications - The method can be especially applied for long-lasting computations with a slow convergence of state variables values along with the decrease of integration steps. Originality/value - The paper presents an original parallel method for solving differential equations, which significantly speeds up transient states analysis in physical systems.

Notes: Purpose - Developing an efficient second-order integration method of transient analysis of nonlinear dynamic circuits which overcomes the main drawback of the trapezoidal rule. Design/methodology/approach - Dynamic circuits including transistors and operational amplifiers are considered. A new family of two-step, second-order numerical integration algorithms has been developed using a polynomial approximation. Findings - The algorithms have been worked out which are implicit, A-stable and they depend on a parameter which is allowed to be changed during the computation process according to a proposed strategy. Also the variable step-size formula has been derived enabling us to eliminate a restarting procedure. The method has been implemented and tested using several representative circuits. It has been compared, both theoretically and via numerical examples, with the alternative well known algorithms: the trapezoidal rule and the backward differentiation formula of order two. Research limitation/implications - The algorithms developed in the paper are two-step and second-order, consequently the step size cannot be too large and the algorithms are not L-stable. Originality/value - A new family of two-step implicit integration algorithms is developed. It can be useful for the analysis and design of electronic circuits.

Notes: Purpose - To propose a novel method for defect reconstruction in electromagnetic non-destructive testing (NDT). Design/methodology/approach - The inversion method is based on an optimized database that contains the measured signals for some predefined defect prototypes. The database is supported by an anisotropic simplex mesh, which has been generated adaptively in the abstract n-dimensional space, spanned by the model parameters of the defect type. The actual reconstruction reduces to a mesh search and interpolation. The described theory is demonstrated in the paper by a solved NDT test problem. Findings - We have realized that in addition to sole defect reconstruction, the database provides meta-information about the quality of the inversion, the suitability of the chosen defect model parameters, as well as the capabilities of the testing experiment. Research limitations/implications - Defect models having several parameters require a sophisticated mesh generation algorithm, which works in higher dimensions. Originality/value - In the authors' opinion the mesh database approach offers a totally new point of view of a given inverse problem, and may help in the better understanding of its nature.

Notes: Purpose - The definition of a simple model of low frequency magnetic field created by power industrial installations can be approached by using an equivalent source system (ESS). Given a set of measured magnetic field points, the ESS, made by a limited set of current carrying wires or turns, must be placed and supplied in order to fit the measured magnetic field values. An optimisation procedure can be used to define the current values and the location of the ESS which minimize the error between the measured and computed magnetic field values. Design/methodology/approach - A two-step optimal procedure is defined: in the outer step a stochastic optimisation routine is used to drive the geometric control parameters of the ESS while, in the inner step, the current values flowing through the sources are computed to find the minimization of the error with respect to a set of measured magnetic field values. The optimisation procedure is based on an artificial immune system algorithm which focuses on a deep exploration of the search space and gave interesting results both in terms of accuracy and computational efficiency. Findings - The results show that the proposed approach is able to reconstruct the magnetic field created by complex source system and give some accuracy measure on the reconstruction error. The optimisation process carried out also on conductor positions has allowed to find out the location of the real sources in an accurate way, also in presence of measurement errors. Originality/value - The approach proposed uses optimisation procedures to solve the inverse problem of source reconstruction starting by a set of measured magnetic field values. The definition of a simple equivalent source structure, together with an optimisation procedure to set its control parameters, allows to simulate complex magnetic field sources, like power substations or cable systems, in a very efficient and compact way.

Notes: Purpose - The paper highlights the process of electric vehicles optimal design as an inverse problem and presents the global constrained optimization as the best way to solve it. Design/methodology/approach - The electric vehicle optimal design is carried out by a new approach. It consists an electric vehicle design model managed by constrained optimization techniques. It includes sizing models for all drive train components and a vehicle dynamic model build in a new "design way" as an energy-based model using the response surface methodology. The sensitivity of first simple sizing models can be evaluated by the experimental design method, giving information about the most important part of the model that must be improved. Findings - The result shows the superiority of the constrained optimization technique that treats simultaneously the global optimization and the model adjustment. This method of simultaneous resolution is much more powerful than the successive resolution of each subproblem. The proposed "design approach" used for electric vehicle optimal design offer a large potential in the field of the complex systems design. Originality/value - The electric vehicle design process is treated on a vehicle design model based on a design approach. It allows determining the drive train components specifications for imposed vehicle performances, taking into account the dynamic model of the vehicle and all components interactions. Furthermore, considering fine components sizing models, the components can be sized taking into account the whole system behavior in an optimal global design.

Notes: Purpose - Optimisation in electromagnetics, based on finite element models, is often very time-consuming. In this paper, we present the space-mapping (SM) technique which aims at speeding up such procedures by exploiting auxiliary models that are less accurate but much cheaper to compute. Design/methodology/approach - The key element in this technique is the SM function. Its purpose is to relate the two models. The SM function, combined with the low accuracy model, makes a surrogate model that can be optimised more efficiently. Findings - By two examples we show that the SM technique is effective. Further we show how the choice of the low accuracy model can influence the acceleration process. On one hand, taking into account more essential features of the problem helps speeding up the whole procedure. On the other hand, extremely simple auxiliary models can already yield a significant acceleration. Research limitations/implications - Obtaining the low accuracy model is not always straightforward. Some research could be done in this direction. The SM technique can also be applied iteratively, i.e. the auxiliary model is optimised aided by a coarser one. Thus, the generation of hierarchies of models seems to be a promising venue for the SM technique. Originality/value - Optimisation in electromagnetics, based on finite element models, is often very time-consuming. The results given show that the SM technique is effective for speeding up such procedures.

Notes: Purpose - This paper deals with the collaborative design of electromagnetic devices over the internet network. The design is made by both mechanical and electrical engineers. So, the paper tries to show the importance but also constraints to size such a system using a collaborative optimisation process. Design/methodology/approach - The paper compares two approaches in order to size an electromechanical actuator between mechanical and electrical engineers. In the first one, each profession designs its part, and only common constrained are negotiated. This can result in a design process with many iterations. In the second one, electrical and mechanical engineers built together a common model of the structure and a common list of specifications: this allows a global optimisation that is more efficient. Findings - The main result of the paper is that the second approach in which a global model is built between electrical and mechanical engineers is more efficient. Originality/value - The originality of the paper is to explore the problems and difficulties of an optimisation of an electromechanical device between engineers of different culture working together over the internet network.

Notes: Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to obtain a fully analytical model of an eddy current coupler and to use it in a multi-objective optimisation algorithm. Design/methodology/approach - Analytical expressions of device performances are adopted in the objective function and are obtained from a closed solution of the field problem. The optimisation has been carried out by considering both the torque and the momentum of inertia of the object. Two different structures have been considered. Findings - A fully analytical expression of the torque has been obtained for two different geometrical configurations. The optimisation procedure has been used to compare these structures and it is possible to observe that the DSPM performances are better than the SSPM ones. Research limitations/implications - To obtain a closed form of the torque function, the non-linearities of the iron have been neglected. Nevertheless, in the optimisation procedure has been limited the magnetic flux density in the iron core to a feasible value in the linear part of the ferromagnetic characteristic. The thermal effects have been neglected. Pratical implications - In the industry, eddy current couplers can be used as transmission, dampers and brakes. The use of objective functions (OFs) in a closed formulation allows to perform a light optimisation from the point of view of the time computation and to drastically increase the development efficiency. Originality/value - In this paper, a model for computing the electromagnetic behaviour of eddy current couplers is presented. The optimisation of both the torque and the inertia momentum allows to obtain good static and dynamic performances.

Notes: Purpose - The electroencephalography (EEG) source tomography in bio-electromagnetics is to estimate current dipole sources inside the brain from the measured electric potential distribution on the scalp surface. A traditional algorithm is the low-resolution electromagnetic tomography algorithm (LORETA). In order to obtain high-resolution tomography, the LORETA-contracting algorithm is proposed. Design/methodology/approach - The relation between the dipolar current source J at the nodes in source region and the potential U at the observed points on the scalp surface can be expressed as a matrix equation U=KJ after discretization. K is a coefficient matrix. Usually its simultaneous equation is an under-determined system. The LORETA approach is to find out min?BWJ?2, under constraint U=KJ where B is the discrete Laplacian operator matrix, W is a weighting diagonal matrix. Its solution is J=(WBTBW)-1KT{K(WBTBW)-1KT}+U where {}+ denotes the Moore-Penrose pseudo-inverse matrix. The improvement on this approach is to establish an iterative program to repeat LORETA and reduce the number of unknown J quantities in the step i+1 by contracting the source region excluding some extreme little quantities of J given in the step i. The simultaneous equations will gradually turn to a properly determined system or to an over-determined system. Finally, its solution can be obtained by using the least square method. Findings - Repeating to make the low-resolution tomography by contracting the source region, we can get a high-resolution tomography easily. Research limitations/implications - The LORETA-contracting algorithm is based on the assumption that the dipolar current sources inside the brain are sparse and concentrated based on the physiological study of the brain activity. Originality/value - It is new to repeat LORETA combined with the contracting technique. This algorithm can be developed to solve EEG problems of realistic head models.

Notes: Purpose - To design an optimal active shield for the mitigation of the magnetic stray field around an induction heating device. Design/methodology/approach - The active shield consists of several compensation coils in series and generates a counter field opposite to the main field. One extra compensation winding - the "generating compensation winding" (GCW) - is positioned close to the excitation coil and works as the secondary winding of a transformer. The power in this winding is used to drive the other compensation coils (the active shield), which are the load of the transformer. A circuit with passive components is inserted between the GCW and the other compensation coils. The shield is optimal if it achieves a high field reduction, while the energy dissipation is low. By using a genetic algorithm (GA) that minimizes an objective function, the optimization algorithm finds the optimal geometry and the optimal current for the GCW and the other compensation coils. The objective function uses time harmonic and axisymmetric finite element calculations. Findings - The transformer driven active shield reduces the magnetic field effectively. It is cheap and easy to build, but it works well only for one frequency. Research limitations/implications - The shield is sensitive to tuning of the passive circuit and to changes in the frequency of the induction heater. Practical implications - This transformer driven shield is an alternative for the classical active shield with external power supply. Originality/value - An active shield that does not need an external power supply is a cheap solution for the shielding of magnetic fields.

Notes: Purpose - The parameters of axial-field machines are very small compared with the parameters of conventional machines. Different measuring methods are normally used in order to obtain good estimates of the machine parameters. These methods are difficult to perform, costly and time consuming. This paper proposes the use of genetic algorithms to predict the self and mutual inductances of a specific type of axial-field machine, the Torus motor. Design/methodology/approach - The parameter extraction is reformulated as a search and optimization problem in which the only requirement is a set of values of current versus time and an approximate estimate of the parameters. Findings - The predicted machine self and mutual inductances are verified by comparing with several measuring methods and excellent agreement is obtained. Originality/value - Demonstrates that genetic algorithms can predict the self and mutual inductances of the Torus machine automatically with high accuracy.

Notes: Purpose - The purpose of the paper is to present a novel design method for the optimal finite word length (FWL) finite impulse response (FIR) filters. Design/methodology/approach - The design method is based on a parallel tabu search (TS) algorithm which uses the crossover operator of the genetic algorithm. Findings - Three design examples have been presented to show that the proposed method can provide a good solution to the design problem of a FWL FIR filter. In order to show the validity of the proposed method, the performance of the suggested method has been compared to those of widely-used other methods. From the comparison results, it was concluded that the proposed method can be efficiently used for the optimal FWL FIR filter design. Research limitations/implications - The number of examples can be increased and also the performance of the proposed method might be compared to other design methods, apart from those presented in this work, developed for the design of optimal FWL FIR filters. Practical implications - The use of this method produces optimal digital FWL FIR filters with low complexity and therefore provides advantages in the terms of speed and cost. Originality/value - The originality is the application of the parallel TS algorithm described by the authors to the FWL FIR filter design. The work presented in the paper is particularly important for the researchers studying on the design methods for FWL FIR filter design and the applications of these type filters.

Notes: Purpose - To provide a new and simple inverse rotor time constant identification method which can be used to update an indirect rotor field oriented controlled (IRFOC) induction motor algorithm. Design/methodology/approach - Two different equations are used to estimate the rotor flux in the stator reference frame. One of the equations is a function of the rotor time constant, rotor angular velocity and the stator currents. The other equation is a function of measured stator currents and voltages. The equation that uses the voltage and the current signals of the stator serves as reference model, however, the other equation works as an adjustable model with respect to the variation of the rotor time constant. Voltage signals used in the reference model equation are obtained from the measured DC bus voltage and the inverter gating signals. The proposed scheme is verified using a MATLAB/SIMULINK model for two different motors and experimentally using a DSP development tool (MCK 243) supplied by Technosoft S.A. Findings - The proposed estimator was able to successfully track the actual value of the inverse rotor time constant for different load torque and speed operating conditions. Increased oscillations in the estimated inverse rotor time constant appeared at lower speeds (below 10 per cent of rated speed) due to drift in a PI regulator (used at the estimator side), which was tuned under rated operating conditions and using parameters nominal values. Research limitations/implications - This estimation scheme is limited when near zero speed operation is demanded; otherwise it gives a simple and practical solution. A suggested way out of this, is to provide a self-tuning controller that can automatically adjust even for zero speed operation, or to automatically disconnect the estimator and take the most updated value as long as the operating speed is below a predetermined value. Originality/value - This paper presented a new inverse rotor time constant estimator for an IRFOC induction motor application and in conjunction rotor flux was estimated without voltage phase sensors.

Notes: Purpose - This paper presents a novel multiobjective optimal design of three phase induction motor using simulated annealing (SA) technique for minimizing annual material cost and annual loss cost as two objectives. Design/methodology/approach - The design problem of a three-phase induction motor is presented as a nonlinear multicriterion optimization problem on the basis of minimizing the annual cost of the motor. The annual cost referred is the sum of the annual interest and depreciation of motor active material costs, annual cost of active power loss of the motor and the annual energy cost required to supply such power loss. A computer package is built which generates initial values of motor parameters and gives the optimal values of these parameters with more than one objective function and nonviolated constraints. The problem is solved by giving weights which reflect the priority of objective functions. The SA technique is used as a tool to solve the problem. Findings - To verify the validity, the proposed method is applied to a three-phase induction motor design. From the results, it is found that the proposed method is fast and efficient and hence it is useful for multiobjective design of an induction motor. Originality/value - This method is particularly useful in satisfying the needs of motor producer and consumer by prioritizing their needs and finally arriving at a best compromise solution.

Notes: Purpose - To study the magnetic shielding and the losses of non-linear, hysteretic multilayered shields by using fast to evaluate analytical expressions. Design/methodology/approach - In order to evaluate the shield in the frequency domain, the non-linear shield is divided into a sufficient number of piecewise linear sublayers. Each sublayer has a permeability that is constant (space independent) and complex (to model hysteresis). This expression for the permeability is found from the Preisach model by a Fourier transform. Once H is known in the entire shield, analytical expressions calculate the eddy current losses and hysteresis losses in the material. The validity of the analytical expressions is verified by numerical experiments. Findings - In the Rayleigh region, the shielding factor of perfectly linear material is better than the one of non-linear metal sheets, but also the eddy current losses are higher. The results of the optimization show that steel is only a useful shielding material at low frequencies. Research limitations/implications - The analytical method is valid for infinitely long shields and for weak imposed fields in the Rayleigh region. Practical implications - As the analytical expressions can be evaluated very fast (in comparison with slow finite elements models), many magnetic shields can be compared in parametric studies. Originality/value - Analytical expressions exist for the shielding factor and the losses of linear materials. In this paper, the method is extended for non-linear hysteretic materials. The effects of several parameters (material parameters, incident fields parameters) on the shielding and the losses are shown.

Notes: Purpose - To analyze the operating performance of a fuzzy logic control (FLC) based solar energy conversion modular system controlled by a digital signal processor (DSP) microcontroller. Design/methodology/approach - A range of published works relevant to the solar energy conversion modular systems are evaluated and their limitations are indicated in the first section of the paper. The circuit diagram of the panel-boost converter system is described in the second section. In the third section, a neural network model is suggested for the photovoltaic panel and the model is created in the MATLAB/SIMULINK and then combined with other blocks existing in the system. The design of the FLC method is described in section 4. The simulation and experimental results corresponding to the control of the duty-cycle of the converter to set the operating point of the solar panel at the maximum power point (MPP) are given in sections 5 and 6, respectively. Section 7, summarizes the results and conclusions of the study. Findings - The paper suggests a simple dc-dc boost converter controlled by FLC method. The proposed converter model can be used to obtain maximum power from a photovoltaic panel. Research limitations/implications - In preparing this paper, the resources books existing in the library of our university and the resources relative to the solar energy conversion and FLC published in English language and reachable through the internet were researched. Practical implications - The paper suggests a neural network model for a solar panel, which can be used in the simulation of the solar energy panel-boost converter system. The solar energy panel-boost converter system proposed in this study can be used by the researchers who are working in the solar energy conversion area. Originality/value - The suggestion of a neural network model for a solar panel and creation of this model in the MATLAB/SIMULINK environment provides researchers to simulate and to analyze the performance of the solar energy panel-boost converter system using the MATLAB/SIMULINK simulation program. In addition, since the control approach proposed in this paper does not require the information on temperature and solar irradiance that affect the maximum output power, can effectively find the MPP of the solar panel.

Notes: Purpose - Analytical models are often used in the first steps of the design process. They are associated with optimisation methods to find a solution that fulfil the design specifications. In this paper, the analytical model of an electric motor is built and proposed as a benchmark to highlight the optimisation methods the most fitted to analytical models. Design/methodology/approach - This paper studies the optimal design of a brushless DC wheel motor. First, the analytical model is presented. Each equation used for the sizing is described, including the physical phenomenon associated, the hypotheses done, and some precautions to take before computing. All equations are ordered to ease their resolution, due to a specific procedure which is then described. Secondly, three optimisation problems with an increasing number of parameters and constraints are proposed. Finally, the results found by the sequential quadratic method point out the special features of this benchmark. Findings - The constraint optimisation problem proposed is clearly multimodal as shown in the results of one deterministic method. Many starting points were used to initialise the optimisation methods and lead to two very different solutions. Originality/value - First, an analytical model for the optimal design is detailed and each equation is explained. A specific procedure is presented to order all equations in order to ease their resolution. Secondly, a multimodal benchmark is proposed to promote the development of hybrid methods and special heuristics.

Notes: Purpose - To provide a new method and methodology for researches and academic members which can help them to develop scientific work. Design/methodology/approach - The paper presents closed-form expressions for the harmonic components of the space-vector pulsewidth modulated (PWM) waveforms under inverter fault-mode operations. The main method that is used is the Laplace transform and Fourier series expansion theorem. Findings - Provides information about harmonic sources and its influence on the behavior of the induction machine. Practical implications - The calculated harmonics show a very close agreement with measured harmonics from an experimental digital signal processor (DSP) based modulator. It provides a very useful source of theoretical and practical information for scientific and research area. Originality/value - The method is original and has not been published before. The new and original approach is given by the use of the Laplace transform of space-vectors in the complex plane. This will help to understand harmonics which are formed in four-switch voltage source inverter.

Notes: Purpose - To provide an efficient numerical eigenvalue solution for open waveguides with lossy anisotropic materials. Design/methodology/approach - Vector edge elements are used to represent the core of the problem, and an adaptive perfectly matched layer (PML) is used to truncate the surrounding region. The parameters of the PML are allowed to change at each frequency to obtain accurate results using small number of unknowns. Findings - The method is able to solve many configurations, and considerable reduction in mesh size has been reported. In addition, by adapting the solution according to some error criterion, it will be possible to minimize the dependence on human experience and rely more on automated algorithms. Research limitations/implications - There is a need to improve the performance of the adaptive algorithm by building an automatic adaptive procedure that can work without human intervention. Practical implications - A systematic full-wave algorithm for solving practical electromagnetic engineering problems associated with open waveguides, such as planar transmission lines and optical waveguides, using relatively small computer resources. Originality/value - Proposed a new "dimension" of adaptation for PML, besides the classical h-/p-/hp adaptation methods available in literature. Thus, the requirement for smaller computer resources makes this method cost-effective for industry in the design of practical open waveguides.

Notes: Purpose - Focuses on steady state modelling of basic unipolar non-isolated PWM AC line matrix-reactance choppers (MRC). Their single-phase topologies are similar to well-known basic DC/DC converter ones. The MRC are built up through the adaptation of DC/DC converter topologies, which are based on the substitution of self-commutated unidirectional switches by bi-directional ones. Design/methodology/approach - Presents an approach to modelling of the MRC with averaging operator different to the one used in averaged modelling of the DC/DC converters. There is running averaging of each switching period in the proposed approach. Following this, there is a demonstration of the solutions convergence of the state space and averaged state space equations for infinitive switching frequency. Findings - The running averaging of each switching period should be used if averaged state space method is applied to the analysis of presented choppers. A circuit averaged model build-up procedure of the presented choppers is the same as for the DC/DC ones. Originality/value - Presents a quantitative assessment of accuracy for the averaged models of the presented MRC for finite switching frequency.

Notes: Purpose - This paper describes models of micro-turbines and fuel cells, which can be used in stability studies. Design/methodology/approach - The plants models derived are based on the main equations. These models are developed in the Laplace domain and transient simulation is done using a software developed based on the MATLAB package. Findings - The micro-source is capable of providing effective load-following service in the distribution system. However, the results also show that the micro-source is not an uninterruptible power supply and does not protect the load from voltage instability while in grid-connect mode. When a micro-turbine plant is connected to a point where it gives support to a load in fault conditions, the lower the inertia of micro-turbine plant, the greater is the destabilizing tendency for faults in the distribution system. On the other hand, transient stability is enhanced with aid of the SOFC inverter. Originality/value - The effects of these micro-sources on the network performance are shown and a distribution system embedded with the micro-sources is used as an example. Finally, transient stability and voltage stability of the system are investigated.

Notes: Purpose - To introduce a Whitney-element based coupling of the Finite Element Method (FEM) and the Boundary Element Method (BEM); to discuss the algebraic properties of the resulting system and propose solver strategies. Design/methodology/approach - The FEM is interpreted in the framework of the theory of discrete electromagnetism (DEM). The BEM formulation is given in a DEM-compatible notation. This allows for a physical interpretation of the algebraic properties of the resulting BEM-FEM system matrix. To these ends we give a concise introduction to the mathematical concepts of DEM. Findings - Although the BEM-FEM system matrix is not symmetric, its kernel is equivalent to the kernel of its transpose. This surprising finding allows for the use of two solution techniques: regularization or an adapted GMRES solver. Research limitations/implications - The programming of the proposed techniques is a work in progress. The numerical results to support the presented theory are limited to a small number of test cases. Practical implications - The paper will help to improve the understanding of the topological and geometrical implications in the algebraic structure of the BEM-FEM coupling. Originality/value - Several original concepts are presented: a new interpretation of the FEM boundary term leads to an intuitive understanding of the coupling of BEM and FEM. The adapted GMRES solver allows for an accurate solution of a singular, unsymetric system with a right-hand side that is not in the image of the matrix. The issue of a grid-transfer matrix is briefly mentioned.

Notes: Purpose - To provide a validation of a three-dimensional (3D) macroscopic model for superconductors comparing numerical to experimental AC losses of a BSCCO-2223 tape subject to an orthogonal magnetic field and a transport current. Design/methodology/approach - We solve in 3D geometries the eddy current problem in presence of superconductors, represented by a power-law characteristic rewritten into a variational form. An integral formulation of the magneto-quasistatic Maxwell's equations is used. The solution of the problem is found by an unconstrained minimization of a suitable functional. The numerical results on AC losses computation are compared to experimental data. Findings - The agreement between numerical and experimental data is good in a wide range of currents and magnetic fields. Research limitations/implications - The magnetic field is assumed to be orthogonal to the tape. Different incidence angles should be taken into account. Practical implications - It is possible to extend the range of validity of the engineering formulae for AC losses used in the work. Originality/value - The paper provides a validation of a numerical code against experimental results: this is always challenging in the field of applied superconductivity.

Notes: Purpose - The aim of the present work is to find an efficient solution concerning the computational effort of quasi-static electric field (QSEF) problems involving anisotropic conductivity and permittivity in the frequency domain. Design/methodology/approach - Numerical simulations are carried out with tetrahedral nodal finite elements of first- and second-order and with Withney elements. The solution of the boundary value problem with the aid of the electric scalar potential approximated by nodal finite elements is compared with those by the electric current vector potential represented by edge finite elements. Findings - The simulation with an electric current vector potential approximated by the edge elements of first-order prevail over that by the electric scalar potential approximated by nodal elements of second-order concerning the memory requirements and the computation time at comparable accuracy. Originality/value - The application of edge finite elements to solve QSEF problems considering an anisotropic complex conductivity in 3D.

Notes: Purpose - To establish a statistical formulation of robust design optimization and to develop a fast optimization algorithm for the solution of the statistical design problem. Design/methodology/approach - Existing formulations and methods for statistical robust design are reviewed and compared. A consistent problem formulation in terms of statistical parameters of the involved variables is introduced. A novel algorithm for statistical optimization is developed. It is based on the unscented transformation, a fast method for the propagation of random variables through nonlinear functions. The prediction performance of the unscented transformation is demonstrated and compared with other methods by means of an analytical test function. The validity of the proposed approach is shown through the design of the superconducting magnetic energy storage device of the TEAM workshop problem 22. Findings - Provides a consistent formulation of statistical robust design optimization and an efficient and accurate method for the solution of practical problems. Originality/value - The proposed approach can be applied to all kinds of design problems and allows to account for the inevitable effects of tolerances and parameter variations occuring in practical realizations of designed devices.

Notes: Purpose - Proposes a non-negative matrix factorization method. Design/methodology approach - Presents an algorithm for finding a suboptimal basis matrix. This is controlled by data cluster centers which can guarantee that the coefficient is very sparse. This leads to the proposition of an application of non-matrix factorization for blind sparse source separation with less sensors than sources. Findings - Two simulation examples reveal the validity and performance of the algorithm in this paper. Originality/value - Using the approach in this paper, the sparse sources can be recovered even if the sources are overlapped to some degree.

Notes: Purpose - This paper deals with closed-loop control of a switched reluctance generator (SRG). Design/methodology/approach - The control objective when generating is to maintain the dc link voltage at the required value while achieving maximum efficiency. Three possible control schemes are presented and their performance is examined by testing on an experimental 12/8 three-phase SRG. Findings - A very simple control scheme that requires no prior characterisation of the SRG, an approach based on the use of an inverse machine model and finally, a control scheme that is aimed at achieving optimal efficiency are described and experimental results for all three are presented. Research limitations/implications - The inverse machine model control scheme and the optimal efficiency control scheme require operation at a constant voltage reference for accurate operation (although this is the case for many generator applications). Possible future research might include the expansion of these control schemes to operation with a variable voltage reference. Practical implications - The importance of maximising efficiency is emphasised with a clear method of deriving the optimal efficiency firing angles described. Originality/value - This paper provides a good overview of SRG operation through the experimental implementation of three separate closed-loop voltage control schemes, each of which is described in detail.

Notes: Purpose - The interface between two conducting fluids in a magnetic fluid dynamics (MFD) problem was identified by means of external magnetic field measurements. Genetic algorithms (GA) were applied to solve the inverse problem.The principal component analysis (PCA) was used to speed up the process of interface reconstruction. Design/methodology/approach - With respect to the experimental results we have designed a general technique for mode identification and/or interface reconstruction. Two main procedures are available to solve the inverse problem, the full interface reconstruction and the principle component analysis (PCA) mode. In the case of full reconstruction, it can be decided whether an algorithm for fast identification of the dominant modes applying a FFT module should be performed or not. The full interface reconstruction applies stochastic optimization methods ((GA) or evolution strategies (ES)) for the estimation of the interface shape characteristics. The main goal of the PCA mode is to find the dominant mode of the interface shape and its amplitude. The PCA mode is realized by means of stochastic optimization methods (GA, ES) and a simple direct searching (DS) using the golden section technique. Findings - PCA with GA procedure enables the identification of the dominant mode of the interface shape between two conducting fluids with sufficient accuracy for simulated magnetic fields. Time of identification is strongly reduced due to a redefinition of the genotype representations in the PCA mode. Accuracy of reconstruction depends on the noise level, i.e. signal to noise ratio and a geometrical model used in the reconstruction phase. The correlation between the noise level and values of cost function for identified modes has been found if a proper geometry modelling is applied. Originality/value - The paper describes a new, fast technique for solving an inverse field problem of a MFD problem where the interface between two conducting fluids has to be identified using a magnetic field tomography measuring system.