003650   Bhasin M K;Ratanjit Singh;Singh I P;Bhasin V; Chahal S M S (Anthropology Dep, Delhi Univ, Delhi-110 007) : Genetic studies of pangwalas, transhumant and settled gaddis: a comparative study of age changes in biological variables among transhumant and settled Gaddis. J hum Ecol 2008, 24(3), 149-74.

The paper is on comparative study of pattern of body growth and respiratory functions among Transhumant Gaddi (Brahmans and Rajputs) of Tehsil Bharamour, District Chamba inhabting Mid-Himalayan zone and Settled Gaddi (Brahmans and Rajputs) of District Kangra inhabiting Outer-Himalayan zone. Broadly speaking, all the groups do not show statistically significant differences between each other in most of the biological variables studied, except Settled Kangra Rajputs, who have shown differences in certain biological variables, when compared with Transhumant Bharmour Brahmans and Rajputs. These differences may be attributed more to socio-economic conditions, physical environment and mode of existence and less to biological make up.

5 tables, 59 ref

003649   Banerjee K;Ghosh R;Homechaudhuri S;Mitra A (Marine Science Dep, University of Calcutta, 35 Ballygunge Circular Road, Kolkata-700 019) : Seasonal variation in the biochemical composition of red seaweed (Catenella repens) from Gangetic delta, northeast coast of India. J Earth Syst Sci 2009, 118(5), 497-505.

Biochemical composition of red seaweeds, Catenella repens was investigated in the study along with subsequent analysis of relevant physico-chemical variables. In the study, the relationship between the nutritive components of this species and the ambient environmental parameters was established. Protein content varied from 2.78±0.30% of dry weight (stn.3) to 16.03 ± 0.96% of dry weight (stn.1) with highest values during monsoon. The protein levels were positively correlated with dissolved nitrate content and negatively correlated with water temperature (except stn.3) and salinity. Carbohydrate content of this species varied significantly (p <60> 0.05) during pre-monsoon between stations and the values showed positive relationship with salinity and surface water temperature. In contrast to carbohydrate, lipid concentration was lowest in values and varied very slightly between seasons and stations. Astaxanthin content of the seaweed species was greater in pre-monsoon than monsoon and post-monsoon in all the selected stations. Compared with the three seasons, samples of red seaweed collected in pre-monsoon has high carbohydrate-astaxanthin in contrast to protein-lipid which showed high values during monsoon. Statistical analysis computed among the environmental and biochemical parameters suggests the potential role played by the abiotic parameters on biosynthetic pathways of seaweed. Also highlights the influence of the nutritional quality of water that can be used for mass cultivation of Catenella repens.

2 illus, 3 tables, 54 ref

003648   Baek J I;Choi S J;Park S H;Choi J Y;Kim C D; Kim Y L;Kim U K (Biology Dep, College of Natural Sciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea) : Identification of novel variants in the COL4A4 gene in Korean patients with thin basement membrane nephropathy. Indian J med Res 2009, 129(5), 525-33.

α4 chain of the type 4 collagen family is an important component of the glomerular basement membrane (GBM) in the kidney. It is encoded by the COL4A4 gene, and mutations of this gene are known to be associated with thin basement membrane nephropathy (TBMN). To better understand the contribution of variants in the COL4A4 gene to TBMN, investigated the sequence of the complete COL4A4 gene in 45 Korean patients with TBMN. Genomic DNA was obtained from the peripheral blood lymphocytes. For the analysis of the COL4A4 gene, all the exons including splicing sites were amplified by PCR and screened by direct sequencing analysis. Eight novel COL4A4 sequence variants were found in these patients. Two of these variants, G199R and G1606E, were possibly pathogenic variants affecting the phenotype. None of these variants were observed in 286 chromosomes from normal Korean control subjects. In addition, 39 polymorphisms including 7 novel SNPs were identified in the study. The frequency of COL4A4 mutations in Korean patients with TBMN is low and the other cases may have mutations in other genes like COL4A3. Screening of the COL4A3 gene and finding a novel causative gene for TBMN will help clarify the pathogenesis of this disorder and perhaps for distinguishing TBMN from Alport syndrome.

1 illus, 3 tables, 17 ref

003647   Awasthi G;Dash A P;Das A (Evolutionary Genomics and Bioinformatics Lab, National Institute of Malaria Research (ICMR), New Delhi) : Characterization and evolutionary analysis of human CD36 gene. Indian J med Res 2009, 129(5), 534-41.

Understanding evolutionary genetic details of immune system genes responsible for infectious diseases is of prime importance concerning disease pathogenecity. Considering malaria as a devastating disease in the world including India, detail evolutionary understanding on human immune system gene is essential. The primary aim of the study was to initiate work on one such gene, the human CD36 gene responsible in malaria pathogenesis. DNA sequences of the human CD36 gene was retrieved from public domain and fine-scale details were characterized. Both comparative and evolutionary analyses were performed with sequences from six other taxa (5 mammalian one avian) where CD36 homologs are present. Different statistical analyses were also performed. Differential distribution in number and length of exons and introns was detected in CD36 gene across seven taxa. The CpG islands were also found to be distributed unevenly across the gene and taxa. Neighbour-joining tree was constructed and it was observed that the chimpanzee and human are diverged at the CD36 gene relatively recently. The chicken, Gallus gallus was found to be diverged from rest of the taxa significantly. Also copy number variation was observed across different taxa. Comparative genomic study of a human immune system gene CD36 show relationships among different taxa at the evolutionary level. The information can be of help to study genetic diversity in malaria endemic zones and to correlate it with malaria pathogenecity.

8 illus, 1 table, 14 ref

003646   Adeyemi S L;Raheem U A;Olorunfemi F B (Business Administration Dep, IIorin Univ, IIorin, Negeria) : Under-five mortality and the environment of health in the third world: a Nigerian example. J hum Ecol 2008, 24(2), 117-24.

The study examines the impact of what is herein called 'the environment of health' on pediatric health. The study adopts a multiple regression analysis to identity explanatory values of selected variables in respect of under-five mortality in the third world using the Nigerian example. The under-five mortality trend in Nigeria for 14 years (1988-2001) was selected as focus. The data source is the African development Banks Gender, Poverty and Environmental indicators on African Countries for 2002 and 2003. At the level of individual variables, most of our prior expectations relating to the variable behaviors were validated. The study thus indicated that although these parameters may not work in the same magnitude, they often work in the same direction. It is clear that most deaths associated to the children under the age of five are accounted for by variables in the environment of health and these variables are within the framework of the issues that can be fine tuned by governments and agencies in the health sector planning and programmes. The challenges raised in the study are squarely within the reach of government.

1 illus, 2 tables, 18 ref

002363   Valarmathi S;Harathi P B (Biochemistry & Bioinformatics Dep, Sri Ramakrishna College of Arts & Science for Women, Coimbatore-641 044) : Antimutagenic effect of the medicinal plant Ocimum sanctum. J Ecobiol 2009, 24(3), 289-92.

The antimutagenic effect of protein fraction in the presence and absence of metabolic activation system using Salmonella typhimurium strains TA 98, TA 100 and TA 102 were determined by the assay of Ames Salmonella Microsome. Spontaneous reversion of the tester strains to histidine independence is measured routinely in mutagenicity experiments and is expressed as the number of spontaneous revertants per plate in the presence and absence of S9 mixture. The number of revertants in protein fraction treated cultures were found to be identical with the number of spontaneous revertants (SR) indicating their nonmutagenicity to Salmonella typhimurium TA 98, TA 100 and TA 102. The number of revertants showed by the standard mutagen was found to be 516, 554 and 579 for the strain TA 102, TA 100 and TA 102, whereas the co administration of the protein fraction with the standard mutagen significantly decreased the number of revertant frequency (359,382 & 516), which indicated their antimutagenic effect of the medicinal plant Ocimum sanctum.

2 tables, 4 ref

002362   Tripathi M;Pouranik M;Tabassum S (NO, Mata Gujri Women's College Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, Email: drmahimatripathi@yahoo.co.in) : Biological control of Lantana camara by simultaneous application of two insects, Teleonemia scrupulosa and Leptobyrsa decora together with the spraying of Alternaria spp. Asian J expl Sci 2010, 24(2), 271-3.

Lantana camara is an allelopathic weed present everywhere in India. The weed is extremely hazardous and its management and control is difficult. In the present study an attempt has been made to biologically control this weed through the use of two insect species, Teleonemia scrupulosa and Leptobyrsa decora along with spraying of a fungus, Alternaria. These insect species feed on the leaves, inflorescence and fruits of Lantana causing a burning appearance. The fungus, Alternaria produces external brownish white mycelium on the stem petioles and leaves causing severe leaf falls and finally annihilate the shoot completely.

2 illus, 1 table, 12 ref

002361   Subramanya G;Talebi E;Jamuna D;Doddaswamy M S (Studies in Sericultural Science Dep, Mysore Univ, Manasagangotri, Mysore-570 006, Email: subramanyag2000@yahoo.co.in) : Nonparametric methods for stability determination in mulberry silkworm. Asian J expl Sci 2010, 24(2), 201-8.

It is well known that phenotypic value is determined partly by the genotype and partly by the environment experienced by the individual during the development and expression of the phenotypic value. In identifying genotypes for silkworm breeding programs, their performance stability stands as a major criterion. This means that an increase in cocoon production and accuracy of performance, stability evaluation will help in judging appropriate crossing programs in silkworm. Phenotypic stability of evaluation index was evaluated in thirteen silkworm genotypes across three seasons (twelve different times) in Mysore, India, during 2004 to 2007. The data was evaluated by means of Huehn nonparametric stability indices by analyzing, Si⁽¹⁾ (mean of the absolute rank differences of a genotype over environments) and Si⁽²⁾ (variance among the ranks over environments). For a genotype with maximum stability Si⁽¹⁾ - 0 and Si⁽²⁾ = 0. The nonparametric stability parameters denoted as NP⁽¹⁾, NP⁽²⁾, NP⁽³⁾, NP⁽⁴⁾ and NP⁽⁵⁾ identified MU₄₀₆, MG₄₁₄, MU₄₀₅ and Hosa Mysore using Si⁽¹⁾. On the other hand Si⁽²⁾ identified MU₄₀₆, MG₄₁₄, MU₄₀₅, MU, and Tamil nadu white breeds. Based on these results it could be stated that Huhn's indices of stability seem to be a rather appropriate approach for achieving an accurate classification of genotypes on the basis of their phenotypic stability.

2 illus, 4 tables, 16 ref

002360   Subhashini D V;Padmaja K (NO, Central Tobacco Research Institute, Rajahmundry-533 105, Email: dv_subhashini@rediffmail.com) : Isolation of Streptomyces from tobacco soils that show antimicrobial activity. J biol Control 2009, 23(4), 417-9.

Twelve isolates of Streptomyces spp. from tobacco soils were screened for the production of antibiotics, of which two were found to be efficient. Growth pattern of the two potential isolates was studied and their antimicrobial activity was tested against Aspergillus flavus, A. niger, Pythium aphanidermatum, Bacillus subtilis and Pseudomonas fluorescens. Isolate 2 was found to be more effective and caused maximum inhibitory zone of 108 mm after 120 hrs against P. aphanidermatum. The area of the inhibitory zone observed in both the isolates was directly proportional to the age of the culture for up to 120h.

1 illus, 1 table, 14 ref

002359   Srilatha P;Venkateswarlu K (Microbiology Dep, Sri Krishnadevaraya Univ, Anantapur-515 003) : Effect of pesticides on phosphate solubilization by Aspergillus spp. isolated from Rhizosphere. Ecol Envir Conserv 2009, 15(1), 169-73.

The impact of three pesticides, endosulfan, mancozeb and neem oil at concentrations of 10, 25 and 50 micro g/mL on phosphate solubilization by Aspergillus spp., isolated from the rhizosphere of groundnut and foxtail millet, was investigated. The phosphate released from the insoluble tricalcium phosphate supplemented to the modified Pikovskaya's medium was significantly less in cultures of Aspergillus spp. treated with three concentrations of the pesticides when compared with untreated controls. The inhibitory effect of the pesticide lasted up to 12 days of incubation. Attempts to isolate acid phosphatase to homogeneity were not successful. However, the relative molecular mass of the enriched protein was found to be 62 kDa. The present observation clearly suggests that the regular agriculture practices such as the use of pesticides even at the recommended doses would greatly affect microbial solubilization of inorganic phosphates like superphosphate.

3 tables, 21 ref

002358   Srilatha P;Venkaeswarlu K (Microbiology Dep, Sri Krishnadevaraya Univ, Anantapur-515 055) : Potential of rhizosphere microorganisms in phosphate solubilization. Ecol Envir Conserv 2009, 15(1), 109-13.

The diversity of phosphate-solubilizing microorganisms in rhizhosphere soils of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) and foxtail millet (Setaria italica (L.) Beauv.) was studied in pot experiments. Out of 23 phosphate-solubilizing microorganisms isolated from the rhizosphere, only the species of Bacillus and Aspergillus were found to be the most prevalent in the rhizosphere. The isolates which exhibited good solubilization of tricalcium phosphate in solid medium were further used for their phosphate solubilization in liquid medium. Surprisingly, the potential of some cultures for phosphate solubilization decreased. Aspergillus spp. proved to be potent phosphate solubilizers than the species of Bacillus. Pikovskaya's medium was an efficient medium compared to the phosphate growth medium, recommended by National Botanical Research Institute of Lucknow or mineral salts medium.

4 tables, 28 ref

002357   Sri Ram S;Manasa S B;Savitha M J (NO, National Bureau of Agriculturally Important Insects, Post Bag No. 2491, H.A. Farm Post, Bangalore-560 024, Email: sriram1702@gmail.com) : Potential use of elicitors from Trichoderma in induced systemic resistance for the management of Phytophthora capsici in red pepper. J biol Control 2009, 23(4), 449-56.

Eleven isolates of Trichoderma harzianum were screened for their potential to induce systemic resistance against Phytophthora capsici in red pepper plants. The effect of talc formulations of these eleven isolates on induction of glucanase activity and phenol content was studied. There was a significant increase in glucanase activity in plants treated with Th8 and Thl (94 and 90 fig glucose released min^-1 g^-1) compared to control (77 μg). Similarly phenol content also increased in plants treated with Th4, Th7 and Thl0 (48-59 μg g^-1) compared to control (34 μg g^-1). Cell wall glucan elicitors were extracted from T. harzianum isolate Th l0 that had been reported earlier as an efficient biocontrol agent. Treatment with elicitor preparations also induced high glucanase activity (40 μg glucose released min^-1 g^-1) and increased phenol content (42 μgg^-1) compared to control where the glucanase activity was 33 μg glucose released min^-1g^-1 while phenol content was 27 μg g^-1. Similarly the elicitor treatment as seedling dip reduced P. capsici infection to 23% compared to control (93%). The potential use of ISR eliciting isolates in the biocontrol of P. capsici in red pepper is discussed.

4 illus, 2 tables, 21 ref

002356   Sisodia R (Zoology Dep, Radiation Biology Laboratory, Rajasthan Univ, Jaipur-302 004, Email: rashsisodia@yahoo.com) : Radioprotective efficacy of Indian fruits against ionizing radiations. Asian J expl Sci 2010, 24(2), 311-8.

Botanicals such as Podophyllum hexandrum, Syzigium cumini L., Hippophae rhamnoides, Phyllanthus amarus, Emblica officinalis, Piper longum, Terminalia chebula, Crataegus monogyna, citras extracts, Triphala, Banana, Myristica fragrans, Mangifera indica, Aegle marmelos, Hippophae rhamnoides L, Grewia asiatica and Primus avium protect against radiation-induced lethality, lipid peroxidation and DNA damage. This review may help to develop new radioprotectors of desired activities and highlights radioprotective efficacy of other unexplored fruits having medicinal properties in traditional system of medicine.

1 illus, 52 ref

002355   Sharma K;Sharma V (Molecular Bilogy and Biotechnology Dep, Rajasthan College of Agriculture, MPUAT, Udaipur, Email: vimbio@yahoo.com) : Construction of a genomic library of Jatropha curcas. Int J Trop Agric 2009, 27(1-2), 155-7.

Partial genomic library was constructed from genomic DNA of jatropha curcas leaves using pdrive cloning vector and E coli XL blue as recipient strain. High purity DNA could be obtained only when lyophilized leaves uvre extracted with CTAB buffer while fresh leaves were not satisfactory. The genomic DNA could be fragmented to 5kb to 10kb size with 1 U/5.0/ig of DNA ofSauSAlfor 30 sec. and by nebulization with nitrogen (lOpsi at 30 sec). Mechanical shearing with ultrasonic waves gave DNA fragments of <60> 100 kb which were not suitable for cloning while BamH1 did not restrict the genomic DNA. The _-p Drive cloning vector isolated by alkali lysis method ranged betioeen 2.4 to 4.1 micro g per micro l with total yield being 48 to 82 micro g. The plasmid was linearized by BamHl andcouldbe ligatedwith of 5-10 kb genomic DNA fragments purified after electro-elution on 1.2% agarose gel. The ligated vector without and with insert were transformed into competent cells of E coli XL blue strain. Transformation efficiency (with CaCl_-2) of vector in E coli X-L blue was 8.7 X 10^-5 microg of DNA for 2 micro g of DNA. While transformation efficiency (with CaCl_-2) of vector containing SauSAl ligated insert in E coli X-L blue was 1.8 X 10^-5 and 1.4 X 10^-5 at vector of DNA ratios of 1:1 and 1:2 respectively. Transformation efficiency (with CaCl_-2) of vector containing ligated insert obtained by nebulization in E coli X-L blue was 1.4 X 10^-5 and 1.2 X 10^-5 at vector of DNA ratios of 1:1 and 1:2 respectively.

4 tables, 8 ref

002354   Saravanan G P;Gurunathan N;Senthil Kumar R (Forest College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Mettupalayam-641 301) : Assessment of floral diversity in the Kothagiri hills of western ghats. J Ecobiol 2009, 24(4), 373-81.

The study was conducted in the western ghats of Niligiri biosphere reserve in Tamil Nadu, India to assess the prevalence and existence of floral composition over seasons and phases of time during August 2007 to May 2008 at three different elevations and seasons. Floral composition was higher in the upper elevation (1100-1200 MSL), while shrubs, herbs and climbers varied seasonally. Lantana camera and Pavetta indica were found in all the three seasons. The tree diversity indices values were more in upper elevation, which was found using Shannon Wiener Index and Simpson.

3 tables, 13 ref

002353   Saraswathi U;Sheba P M A (Biochemistry Dep, P S G College of Arts & Science, Coimbatore-641 014) : In vitro antioxidant effect of Caesalpinia bonducella. J Ecobiol 2009, 24(3), 275-8.

The study aimed at evaluating the free radical scavenging activity of different extracts of Caesalpinia bonducella seeds, against 2, 2-Dipnenyl-1-Picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH), superoxide radical, nitric oxide and hydroxyl radicals regenerated in vitro. Petroleum ether, benzene, chloroform, ethylacetate, alcohol and aqueous seed extracts of C. bonducella were analysed. The different extracts were able to scavenge all the four radicals tested and the maximum protection was rendered by the aqueous extract.

1 table, 22 ref

002352   Sahoo S N;Dash G;Parida S K;Nanda S (Fishery Pathology and Microbiology Dep, Faculty of Fishery Sciences, West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences, Kolkata-700 094) : Effect of aqua-mos on growth and survival of Cirrhinus mrigala fingerlings. J appl Biosci 2009, 35(1), 29-34.

The food conversion ratio, body weight and survival percentage of mrigal fingerlings improved significantly by supplementing the diets with 2.5% of Aqua-Mos. Also, there was significant improvement in their immune capacity.

4 illus, 3 tables, 22 ref

002351   Ramesh R;Mathew T;Singh N (NO, ICAR Research Complex for Goa, Old Goa-403 402, Email: rameshicar@yahoo.co.in) : Role of chitinolytic enzymes and volatile compounds produced by endophytic bacteria in the inhibition of mango (Mangifera indica L.) root rot pathogens. J biol Control 2009, 23(4), 433-41.

Endophytic and rhizobacteria isolated from different crops of Goa were studied for the chitinolytic activity and inhibition of fungal pathogens. Fifty-eight isolates were screened in vitro against three fungal pathogens, viz., Macrophomina phaseolina, Rhizoctonia solani and Sclerotium rolfsii which cause seedling and graft mortality in mango nurseries. Results indicated that 40% of the isolates effectively inhibited the growth of all the three pathogens and 34% inhibited the growth of M. phaseolina and S. rolfsii under in vitro conditions. Chitinolytic ability of the isolates was tested by growing them in minimal synthetic medium with 0.2% colloidal chitin. Twelve isolates effectively utilized colloidal chitin as a sole carbon source for their growth. Quantitative chitinase assay revealed that the isolates produced significant amounts of chitinase in the minimal medium and the crude chitinase extract of nine endophytic (EB65, EB69, EBhll, EC2, EC2a, EC14, EC18, ESC4, ET14) and three rhizobacteria (IISR6, PDBC-AB2, RBh42) inhibited the mycelial growth as well as sclerotial germination of R. solani and S. rolfsii. Quantitative assay of chitinase showed that three endophytic bacteria (EBhll, EC18 and EC14) showed maximum chitinase activity. Chitinolytic bacteria reduced the population of all the three fungi when introduced into the soil. Further, most of the isolates produced lAAand solubilized inorganic phosphate in the medium. This study reveals that chitinolytic bacteria, especially endophytes with growth promoting mechanisms, could be better biocontrol agents in the suppression of soil borne phytopathogens.

5 tables, 35 ref

002350   Ramamurthy V;Fathima M A;Govindaraju G; Raveendran S (Zoology Dep, Khadir Mohideen College, Adirampattinam-614 701) : Anti inflammatory activity of Heliotropium indicum extract on formaldehyde induced inflammation in rats. J Ecobiol 2009, 24(4), 345-51.

Plants of the genus Heliotropium are widely used in folk medicine for the treatment of burns, swelling, inflammation and anxiety as well as for bacterial and viral infections. The aerial parts of H. indicum herb growing wild, were subjected to biological and phytochemical studies. H. indicum ethanol and aqueous extracts showed the antiinflammatory activity in the formaldehyde induced paw oedema in rat was studied. Through phytochemical analysis of the H. indicum extract, the alkaloids, flavonoids, carbohydrates, proteins, Phytosterols etc; were identified. It is concluded that aqueous and ethanolic extracts of leaves have acute and chronic anti-inflammatory activity.

4 tables, 14 ref

002349   Pritam H B (P.G. Zoology Dep, B.R.A.B.U., Muzaffarpur, Email: harshbardhanpritam@gmail.com) : Isolation, cultivation and identification of symbiotic bacteria of d-cucurbitae. Int J biol Sci 2010, 1(1), 29-31.

Flies in general and Dacus-Cucurbi tae in particular have been a subject of research by insect microbiologist. It is now established and in many cases experimentally demonstrated that the basis of insect plant relationship lies in the real of Nutrition which in turn matredly influenced insect contain intercellular symbiotic flora. The present work was takenup with a view to investigate the nature and identification of symbiotes. Symbiotes isolated from D-cucurbitae appears very near to pseudomonas preudomalies on the basis of marphalogical, Biochemical and serological test of the culture of symbiotes at 300C. However 35-370 was optimum temperature for growth.

8 ref

002348   Poorani J;Rajeshwari S K;Gupta A (NO, National Bureau of Agriculturally Important Insects, Post Bag No. 2491, H.A. Farm Post, Bellary Road, Bangalore-560 024, Email: pooranij@gmail.com) : Diagnosis and biology of Aenasius bambawalei Hayat (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae), a parasitoid of the invasive mealybug, Phenacoccus solenopsis Tinsley (Hemiptera: Sternorrhyncha: Pseudococcidae). J biol Control 2009, 23(4), 463-6.

Aenasius bambawalei Hayat (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae), is a specific, solitary endoparasitoid of Phenacoccus solenopsis Tinsley, a major invasive pest on cotton in all the cotton growing states in India. This paper provides a short diagnostic description of A. bambawalei with illustrations to facilitate easy identification and notes on the biology of A. bambawalei on P. solenopsis in the laboratory. The mean duration of development of A. bambawalei from egg laying to pupation was 8.85+0.21 days and pupation to adult emergence took 7.35+0.15 days in males and 7.00+0.16 in females. The mean total duration of development of A. bambawalei from egg laying to adult emergence was 16.10+0.25 days (range 14-18 days). The adults survived for 2-4 days on water, but the mean longevity was considerably enhanced on 50% honey (70.95+2.30 days in females and 49.00+2.35 days in males). Unmated females produced 100% male progeny. Four hyperparasitoids of A. bambawalei were recorded on field collected samples namely, Prochiloneurus pulchellus Silvestri, P. albifuniculus (Hayat et a/.), and P. aegyptiacus (Mercet) (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae) and Promuscidea unfasciativentris Girault (Hymenoptera: Aphelinidae).

5 illus, 1 table, 6 ref

002347   Poojary A;Sapre G (Microbiology Dep, BSES MG Hospital, Mumbai) : Kodamaea ohmeri infection in a neonate. Indian Pediat 2009, 46(7), 629-31.

Kodamaea ohmeri is an extremely uncommon human pathogenic yeast. It causes opportunistic infection in immunocompromised hosts. We report a case of Kodamaea ohmeri fungemia in a preterm neonate who succumbed despite antifungal therapy.

10 ref

002346   Okafor A I;Nwani C D;Okereka F O (Animal and Environmental Biology Dep, Abia State University, Uturu - Nigeria) : FrequencY of ABO, rhesus, secretor blood groups and haemoglobin variants amongst students of Abia state university Utura - Nigeria. J appl Biosci 2009, 35(1), 19-23.

Five hundred and seven randomly selected students of Abia State University, Uturu - Nigeria ere tested for ABO, Rh, and secretor blood groups plus six haemoglobin genotypes. Group O was the highest in ABO frequency (51.5%), followed by A (32.7%) and then B (13.2%) while AB was lowest (2.6%). Rh factor and secretor status distributions also varied among the four groups. Rh negative and secretors made up 3 and 75% of the population respectively. Normal haemoglobin (HbAA) sickle cell carriers (HbAs, HbAc) and sicklers (Hbss, Hbsc, Hbcc) constituted 65.7, 31.3 and 3% of the population respectively.

2 tables, 35 ref

002345   Khodse V B;Bhosle N B;Gopalkrishna V V (Marine Corrosion and Material Research Div, National Institute of Oceanography, Dona Paula, Goa-403 004, Email: ukhodse@nio.org) : Distribution of particulate carbohydrate species in the Bay of Bengal. J Earth Syst Sci 2009, 118(2), 147-56.

Suspended particulate matter (SPM) of surface scawaters was collected during December 2003 to October 2004 a.t 10 stations in the Bay of Bengal, and analyzed for particulate organic carbon (POC). total particulate nitrogen (TPN), total particulate carbohydrate (TPCHO) and total par-tinilntc uronie acids (TPURA). The concentrations of POC. TPCHO and TPURA varied from 4.80 to 29.12. 0.85 to 1.24. 0.09 to 0.91 μM C. respectively. The TPCHO-C and TPURA-C accounted for 6.6 32.5% and 0.87 3.65% of POC. The trends observed for the distribution of these compounds were generally similar to those recorded for the distribution of chlorophyll a (Chl a). The C/N ratios varied from 3.2 to 22.3 with most of the values being < 10. This suggests that the organic matter was mostly derived from phytoplankton and bacteria. Relatively low C/N ratios mid high TPCHO yield imply that freshly derived organic matter was present during SWM and FIM. Our data suggest that the quality and quantity of organic matter varied spatially and seasonally.

4 illus, 2 tables, 42 ref

002344   Juliya R F;Varma R V (Forest Protection Div, Kerala Forest Research Institute, Peechi-680 653, Email: juliyaranifrancis@yahoo.com) : Seasonal incidence of Beauveria bassiana on Gargara mixta buckton (Hemiptera: Membracidae) and B. Bronginartii on chrsomelids (Coleoptera: chrysomelidae) in the central forest circle of Kerala. J biol Control 2009, 23(4), 471-3.

Surveys for entomopathogenic fungi in the central forest circle of Kerala revealed the seasonal incidence of Beauveria bassiana in small pockets on Gargara mixta Buckton (Hemiptera: Membracidae) feeding on the leaves of Helicteres isora (Sterculiaceae) in the moist deciduous forests (MDF) at Vazhachal. Incidence of B. brongniartii on chrysomelid beetles (Coleoptera) feeding on teak leaves was also observed in small pockets in teak plantations. Infection was prevalent during post-monsoon months. The infection due to B. bassiana and B. brongniartii ranged from 36.8 to 100 and 45.5 to 100 per cent, respectively. The seasonal incidence of naturally occurring entomofungal pathogens, B. bassiana and B. brongniartii form small scale epizootics in nature under favourable environmental conditions. Such virulent pathogens can be exploited in pest control programmes.

2 illus, 10 ref

002343   Jamkhedkar S;Jadhav B L (Life Sciences Dep, Mumbai Univ, Vidyanagari Campus, Santacruz (East), Mumbai-400 098) : Analysis of genetic diversity in Lamellidens corrianus using RAPD markers. Asian J expl Sci 2010, 24(2), 275-9.

Lamdlidens corrianus is a pearl producing freshwater bivalve indigenous to Indian subcontinent. In present study the wild population samples of L. corrianus were collected from Powai, Khopoli and Shahapur water bodies of Konkan region (Maharashtra, India) used in breeding program and studied for genetic characterization using Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers. The total scorable bands were 177, out of which 93 were polymorphic. The maximum percentage of polymorphic bands was found in Shahapur (82.49%) followed by Khopoli (78.53%) and minimum in Powai (59.32%). The Gst (coefficient of genetic differentiation) estimates based on RAPD analysis confirmed the existence of marginal genetic differentiation among populations. The dendrograms of RAPD markers gave three different clusters viz Powai, Shahapur and Khopoli indicating these populations as sub species of L. corrianus.

2 illus, 4 tables, 25 ref

002342   Hodiwala A;Dangle P;Ghanekar P (Microbiology Dep, M.G.M Medical College, Kalamboli) : Ocular microbiology. Indian Practnr 2009, 62(1), 25-9.

Ocular microbiology plays a very important role in diagnosis and management of many infectious ocular diseases. Significant morbidity can be reduced when treatment modality is guided by proper knowledge of causative organism and its antimicrobial susceptibility. Hence in this article we would like to review the different organisms responsible for causing common eye infections and the role of a microbiology laboratory in their diagnosis.

4 ref

002341   Dash S K;Rao P K;Patro B N (NO, Orissa Veterinary College, Bhubaneswar-751 003) : Genetic characterisation of Ganjam, Black Bengal and Ghumusara goats. Indian vet J 2009, 86(8), 803-6.

DNA samples obtained from buffy cost of 25 animals of each sex and each breed/types of goats were used in the study. The amplified fragments ranged from 1 to 11 in number and 0.50 to 2.3 kb in size. A total of 88 polymorphic bands were detected in all the samples under study. The mean percentage of polymorphic loci detected in Ganjam, Ghumusara and Bengal type were 54.55, 62.50 and 70.45%, respectively. 85.23% of all detectable bands were found to be polymorphic. The inter population Nei's genetic distance between Ganjam and Bengal goats was 0.4433 in the present study. Genetic distance between Ganjam and Ghumusara as well as Ghumusara and Bengal type goats were 0.3197 and 0.2644, respectively in the present study. The genetic similarities were 0.6803 between Ganjam and Ghumusara, 0.5567 between Ganjam and Bengal type and 0.7356 between Ghumusara and Bengal type. The respective genetic distances were 0.3197, 0.4433 and 0.2644.

1 illus, 3 tables, 5 ref

002340   Dasgupta R (Center of Social Medicine and Community Health, Jawaharlal Nehru Univ, New Delhi, Email: dasgupta_jnu@yahoo.com) : Serious messages behind VDPV cases in india. Indian Pediat 2009, 46(8), 701-2.

4 ref

002339   Chandra A K;Debnath A;Tripathy S (Physiology Dep, College of Science and Technology, Calcutta Univ, Kolkata-700 009) : Profile of iodine content of salt in sundarban delta of West Bengal, India. Indian J Nutr Diet 2009, 46(7), 304-7.

In spite of the universal salt iodization programme, only about 60 per cent of the salt samples contained iodine at adequate level and the rest of the salt sample contained iodine below the recommended level of 15 ppm. Thus iodine intake through salt is found unsatisfactory or in other words, the universal saltiodization programme is not fully successful in the Sundarban delta of West Bengal.

1 table, 10 ref

002338   Chandel Y S;Kapoor S;Sunil Kumar (Entomology Dep, CSK Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishvavidyalaya, Palampur-176 062, Email: chandel_hpau@rediffmail.com) : Virulence of Heterorhabditis bacteriohora (Poinar) against cutworm, Agrotis segetum (Denis and Schiff. J biol Control 2009, 23(4), 409-15.

Surveys for entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) were carried out in eight localities covering three districts (Kangra, Sirmaur and Solan) of Himachal Pradesh, India. EPNs were recorded in two localities - Baijnath (Kangra) and Rajgarh (Sirmour), and were identified as Heterorhabditis bacteriophora. The potential of this nematode to kill the larvae of the cutworm, Agrotis segetum, was investigated at 10-40IJs / cm² in Petri plates and in soil (at 1000-5000 Us Kg^-1) experiments. Studies on the comparative susceptibility of 3rd, 4th and 5th instar larvae of A. segetum indicated that the susceptibility of insect larvae to H. bacteriophora decreased with the increase in age. Insect mortality increased with the increase in the exposure time and inoculum level of the EPN. In the soil, 1000 Us of H, bacteriophora Kg^-1 were found to be sufficient to initiate the infection and kill up to 61.3 of 5th instar larvae of A. segetum after 7 days of exposure.

6 tables, 22 ref

002337   Chakraborthy G S (School of Pharmacy, Technology and Management, NMiMS Univ, Babulde, Bank of Tapi River, Shirpur Campus, Shirpur-425 405, Email: phdgs77@indiatimes.com) : Free radical scavening activity of costus speciosus leaves. Indian J pharm Educ Res 2009, 43(1), 96-8.

Antioxidant activity of chloroform extract of Costus speciosm leaves was investigated for its free radical scavenging activity by determining nitric oxide and superoxide radical scavenging activity. Maximum scavenging of nitric oxide and superoxide radical found were 28.53% and 49.5% respectively at 250 μg/ml concentration.

2 tables, 10 ref

002336   Bhatia A L;Patni S;Sharma S (NO, Radiation Biology Laboratory, Rajasthan Univ, Jaipur-302 004) : Radiation exposure and evolutionary perspectives: neutral theory revisited. Asian J expl Sci 2010, 24(2), 189-96.

The growing evidence of low level of radiation at the molecular level supports the neutral theory and paves way to an adaptive response and if carefully examined, for hormesis too. It warrants quests for the evidence for hormesis in the light of an evolutionary expectation. Molecular divergence between species is an extension of the process of either radiation adaptive response or hormesis, which is caused by neutral mutations, which are fixed in one, or the other species. Neutral theory introduced by the Japanese geneticist Motoo Kimura (1968) published in Nature in 1968, calculated the evolutionary rate of protein and found that it is much higher than expected by the result of natural selection. In the wake of findings of Human Genome Project, it would be worth investing to revisit the neutral theory which doesn't say that natural selection plays no role, but the selection intensity involved in the process is so weak that at protein levels in molecular evolution at DNA, a mutation pressures as well as random drift always prevail. Since, mutations are selectively neutral, therefore long-term heterozygosity reflects only in population history and in the mutation rate! The Neutral Theory in fact considers that genes and proteins are so well adapted because of past natural selection. Ubiquitous radiation and radioactivity have been unavoidable and would have taught life to evolve safely in a progressive, rather in retrogressive manner. The truncated natural dose commitment for various periods since the assumed appearance of some of our ancestors may be calculated much higher than the present period. Since, background radiation has been a universal component of our environment, radiation adaptive response and possibly hormesis may be claimed to be an evolutionary expectation. It may also support the cause of the neutral theory of evolution, which states that molecular polymorphism observed in natural population is due to neutral mutation under drift equilibrium. Radiation reaches us from outer space and comes from radionuclides present in rocks, buildings, air, and even from our own bodies since time immemorial. At least a billion particles of natural radiation enter our bodies, every day. However, collective dose and dose commitment though do not have any biological meaning, yet if they have, it shows that life evolved in with the tendency for organisms to become progressively adapted to an environment with the advent of oxygen in the presence of radiation absorbed dose due to intense UV.

8 illus, 13 ref

002335   Bharathi P M;Srilatha P;Revathi M; Venkateswarlu K (Microbiology Dep, Sri Krishnadevaraya University, Anantapur-515 055) : Effect of nitrophenols on growth and heterotrophic nitrication in soil isolates of Aspergillus spp.. Ecol Envir Conserv 2009, 15(1), 35-40.

Four nitrophenols, viz., p-nitrophenol (PNP), o-nitrophenol (ONP), m-nitrophenol (MNP) and 2,4-dinitrophenol (2,4-DNP), were assessed for their impact on growth, in terms of mycelial dry weight, and heterotrophic nitrification in three species of Aspergillus, isolated from soil. The selected nitrophenols were relatively less toxic toward heterotrophic nitrification mediated by Aspergillus spp. when compared with their toxicity on growth response of these isolates. Of the four nitrophenols, MNP was more toxic towards heterotrophic nitrification. The toxicity of the nitrophenols at effective concentrations (EC) ranging from 60 to 84 towards the three species'at the end of 20 days, followed the increasing order: A. flavus<62> A. tamarii <62> A. fumigatus.

1 tables, 31 ref

002334   Behera P C;Parija S C;Parida D R;Bisoi P C (Biochemistry Dep, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Bhubaneswar-751 003) : Role of Cajannus cajan against deltamethrin toxicity on isolated chicken hepatocytes. Indian vet J 2009, 86(8), 787-9.

Deltamethrin, a CNS acting insecticide, significantly increased the AST and ALT activities and decreased the ALP and cell viability at LD₅₀ on incubation with isolated chicken hepatocytes for 2 hours indicating its hepatotoxic effect. The aqueous extract of Cajannus cajan significantly protected the loss of cell viability and the alterations in enzyme activities variably 100 μl and 200 μl dose levels.

1 table, 7 ref

002333   Aruna S J;Ravindran A D (Microbiology Dep, Sourashtra College, Madurai-625 004) : Effect of organic substrate (neem cake) on the growth of spirulina. J Ecobiol 2009, 24(4), 369-72.

A study was carried out to formulate a low cost modified medium as an alternative to the standard Zarrouk medium, to study the growth of Spirulina. The low cost modified medium using the organic substrate neemcake (@ 15g/l) along with baking soda (@16.8 g/l) & sea salt (@ 1g/l) which involved alterations in N,P and K, Carbon and Sodium Chloride showed moderately significant growth of Spirulina. The growth response of the Spirulina in terms of growth OD, chlorophyll and protein contents were also significant.

2 tables, 12 ref

002332   Arora U;Devi P;Deep (Microbiology Dep, Govt. Medical College, Amritsar, Email: usher_ora@yahoo.com) : Citrobacter infections in a tertiary care hospital. Indian Practnr 2009, 62(1), 21-4.

Ninety eight (4.29%) isolates of citrobacter species out of the total 2293 gram negative bacilli were isolated over a period of one and a half year, of which 60 were that of citrobacter freundii and 38 of citrobacter koseri. These isolates were recovered from various clinical samples. Sixty four (65.3%) out of the 98 citrobacter isolates were multidrug resistant. There was highly significant difference in resistance to all the antimicrobials including beta lactams, quinolones and aminoglycosides among hospital and outdoor isolates. ESBL production was seen in 54.11% of hospital and 23.07% of outdoor isolates.

1 table, 11 ref

002331   Allotey J (Biological Sciences Dep, Botswana Univ, ) : Interspecific competition between stored product pest species of Tribolium, Lasioderma and Alphitobius. J appl Zool Res 2009, 20(1), 31-7.

Competition studies on palm kernel meal/yeast (95%:5% by weight) among Tribolium, Lasioderma and Alphitobius showed that in single species populations, T. castaneum and L. serhcome separately thrived well in terms of population numbers in their vultures than A. diaperinus. When they were brought together as mixed species populations of two difference species at a time, T. castaneum and L. serricorne separately outcompeted A. diaperinus. However when L. serricorne and T. castaneum existed together as competing species, L. serricorne was the better competitor. Thus of the three species, L. serricorne was the best competitor.

2 tables, 10 ref

002330   Ajay Kumar;Alok Kumar;Sharma P (Zoology Dep, Chinmaya College of Sciences, Hardwar-249 403) : On the reversal of liver dysenzymia by glutathione in chromium poisoned rats. J expl Zool 2009, 12(1), 219-22.

Influence of glutathione against dysenzymia induced by chromium have been studied in the liver of rats. The activities of phosphatases, dehydrogenases and cholinesterase were inhibited significantly in the liver of chromium fed rats. However, an insignificant stimulation was noticed in lipase activity. Supplementation of glutathione to chromium fed rats, restored the chromium inhibited enzyme activity, reflects a repair in cell membrane and organelles. Other pharmacotoxicological aspects of glutathione are also discussed.

1 table, 31 ref

002329   Agrwal M N;Itankar P R;Patil A T;Vyas J C; Kelkar A J (Pharmaceutical Science Dep, RTM Nagapur Univ, Nagpur-440 033) : Anxiolytic activity of Annona squamosa leaf extracts in mice. Indian J pharm Educ Res 2009, 43(1), 99-104.

To consider potentially new anxiolytic sources, different solvent extracts of leaf of Annona squamosa were investigated and compared with the standard drug diazepam in mice using elevated plus maze and open field behavior test paradigm of anxiety. Doses (100 and 200 mg/kg) of petroleum ether, chloroform, ethyl acetate, acetone, methanol and diazepam (2mg/kg) were administered by oral and ip respectively, 1 hr prior to behavior testing. Methanolic extract in a low dose l00mg/kg produced significant activity in EPM. However, the higher dose (200mg/kg) of methanol & other extracts did not show anxiolytic activity. The effect induced by low dose ofmethanolic extract was comparable to effect induced by diazepam.

6 tables, 21 ref

003280   Yashmin S;Romita;Promila Devi;Bina Rani Devi; Kar D (Life Sci Dep, Assam (Central) Univ, Silchar-11, Email: devashishkar@sify.com) : Panorama of fish catching devices in Manipur state of India. Sci Soc 2007, 5(2), 181-8.

Fish catching devices of lotic and lentic water bodies in Manipur state were studied with regard to their fabrication, modus operandi and efficacy following standard methodology. The study revealed the occurrence of 10 number of fish catching devices under five categories in the lotic systems and 13 number of fishing gears under six categories in the lentic systems. `Longthrai' (scooping gear) has been found to be the most efficacious in terms of Catch/Person/Gearl Hour (CPGH).

3 tables, 30 ref

003279   Yadav S B;Suryakar A N;Huddedar A D;Shukla P S (Biochemistry Dep, Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences, Karad Maharashtra) : Effect of antioxidants and antibiotics onlevels of seminal oxidative stress in leukocytospermic infertile men. Indian J clin Biochem 2006, 21(1), 152-6.

Study was carried out to correlate the concentration of nitrite (the stable metabolite of nitric oxide) in seminal plasma with leukocytospermia, and sperm membrane integrity. Total Fifty-seven normozoospermic subjects with and without leukocytospermia visiting the Infertility clinic at KH and MRC, Karad, were included in the present study. Semen samples were checked for sperm concentration, total sperm count, sperm motility, seminal leukocyte concentration and sperm membrane integrity as Hypoosmotic Swelling Test. Similarly the concentration of nitrite in seminal plasma was measured by Griess reaction and total antioxidant power measured as ferric reducing ability of plasma. The concentration of nitrite in seminal plasma was found to be raised with significantly increased leukocyte concentration in semen. Also significantly lowered levels of total antioxidant power along with defective sperm function was observed. Our results suggest that supplementary treatment of antioxidants with antibiotic for leukocytospermic infertile male patients may improve the sperm membrane integrity.

1 table, 27 ref

003278   Yadav A S;Bhagwat V R;Rathod I M (Biochemistry Dep, Shri. Bhausaheb Hire Govt. Medical College, Dhule-424 001, Email: sarus1@rediffmail.com) : Relationship of plasma homocysteine with lipid profile parameters in ischemic heat disease. Indian J clin Biochem 2006, 21(1), 106-10.

Study was undertaken to explore the relationship of plasma homocysteine with other biochemical parameters in ischemic heart disease. Plasma levels of total homocysteine was measured by HPLC - fluorescence detection with internal standard in 60 ischemic heart disease patients and were compared with 30 age matched normal healthy controls. The significant increase of plasma homocysteine was observed in both myocardial infarction and chronic stable ischemic heart disease patients when compared with the controls. The hyperhomocysteinemia appears be to due to increased body demand of vitamins such as folic acid, vitamin B₁₂, B₆, B₆ either alone or in combination to regulate normal homocysteine metabolism.

1 illus, 3 tables, 17 ref

003277   Vivek Singh;Ram Bhajan;Kamlesh Kumar (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, N.D. Univ Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Faizabad (U.P.)-224 229) : Genetic diversity in Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L. Czern and Coss.). Prog Agric 2007, 7(1-2), 105-9.

Genetic diversity was assessed in a collection of 81 true breeding advanced generation lines/varieties of Indian mustard on the basis of yield and yield related traits. The study revealed enormous diversity in the material as indicated by the wide range of D² value from 7.51 (between the genotypes PBR-253 and RGN-74) to 2116.02 (between the genotypes PHJ-04-401 and Narendra rai). The genotypes fell in thirteen clusters when grouped using the Tocher's method. Cluster/had the highest number of genotypes. The inter cluster distances ranged from 102.93 between cluster V and VIII to 2072.84 between XI and XII. Cluster III was most divergent. The clustering pattern of different genotypes did not follow their geographical distribution. Test weight, plant height and number of siliquae/plant contributed most towards the total divergence. These characters could, therefore, form the basis for selection of parents for distantly placed clusters to obtain high heterotic combinations.

4 tables, 5 ref

003276   Vimala Y;Elizabeth K M (Microbiology Dep, College of Science, Gandhi Institute of Technology and Management, Visakhapatnam-530 045, Email: vimala_y6@yahoo.com) : Antimicrobial activity of Decalepis hamiltonii on some microbial isolates of spoiled vegetables and pathogenic microorganims. Indian J Microbiol 2006, 46(4), 397-9.

The antimicrobial activity of root extracts of Decalepis hamiltonii were tested on microbes isolated from spoiled vegetables and on several pathogenic microorganisms by disc diffusion method. The aqueous, cold methanol, distillate and residual extracts of Decalepis hamillonii were used. The aqueous extract showed zones of inhibition ranging from 5 mm to 17.5 mm, with maximum activity against Pseudomonas and least activity against several pathogens. The cold methanol, distillate, residual extracts showed zones of inhibition ranging from 6 mm - 21 mm, 6 mm - 23 mm, 6 mm - 27.5 mm respectively. Methanol control showed zones ranging from 0 mm - 20 mm.

^ssc1 table, 6 ref

003275   Vikas Kurhekar J (Microbiology Dep, Dr. Patangrao Kadam College, Sangli-416 416) : Allium sativum with reference to its anti-microbial effects on bacterial pathogens causing common infections. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(4), 877-9.

Study was carried out to check the anti-microbial effect of a very commonly used household plant- Allium sativum. This plant is known for its various medicinal effects. Its aqueous extract. was checked against a few bacterial pathogens causing common infections & was found to be antimicrobial for some of these. The extract was then further qualitatively checked for the presence of certain chemical constituents. Preliminary qualitative chemical investigations showed the presence of glucose, proteins, fats, alkaloids & triterpenoids in the aqueous extract.

2 tables, 16 ref

003274   Vendan R T;Thangaraju M (NO, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural, Tiruchirappalli-620 009) : Development and standardization of liquid formulation for Azospirillum bioinoculant. Indian J Microbiol 2006, 46(4), 379-97.

Azospirillum bioinoculant is well known for its high nitrogen fixing and plant growth promoting characters. The carrier based bioinoculants generally suffer from shorter shelf life, poor quality, high contamination and low field performance. Therefore, it is desirable that new inoculant formulations be developed where liquid inoculants play a significant role. To develop liquid Azospirillum formulations the amendments viz., trehalose (10 mM), polyvinylpyrollidone (2%) and glycerol (10 mM) were added separately to N₂ free malic acid broth. Addition of these amendments enhanced and maintained the population level at 10⁸ up to 10 months of storage, whereas the control treatment (without any amendments) recorded this level only up to 3 months. Thus the liquid formulation has a shelf life of ten months, whereas the solid carrier based inoculant has a shelf life of only three to six months. Standardization of dosage of liquid formulation of Azospirillum for various inoculation methods and its survival was studied. The inoculum level of 10 ml/kg seeds, 150 ml/ha seedlings and 300 ml/ha were found to be the optimum dose for seed treatment, seedling root dipping and soil application methods respectively. The liquid formulation shows better adherence and survival on seeds, roots of seedlings and in the rhizosphere soil than the solid carrier based Azospirillum inoculant.

3 illus, 4 tables, 19 ref

003273   Vasudha K C;Nirmal Kumar A;Venkatesh T (Biochemistry Dep, M.S. Ramaiah Medical College, Bangalore-560 054, Email: vasudhachokkanna@yahoo.co.in) : Age dependent changes in serum adenosine deaminase activity and its changes in hepatitis. Indian J clin Biochem 2006, 21(1), 116-20.

Serum Adenosine deaminase (ADA) activity in normal healthy control subjects increases upto 30 years, remains steady between 31-60 years of age and shows a steep increase in the age group of 61-70 years. This was compared with serum aspartate transaminase (AST) and alanine transaminase (ALT) activity which also showed a gradual increase upto 40 years of age and decreased thereafter. The activities of serum ADA, AST and ALT increased in patients with hepatitis of all age groups compared to their respective controls. The degree of increase in the activities of the above enzymes in hepatitis, decreased with age. The study also shows that while studying serum ADA activity in hepatitis for diagnostic purposes, the value obtained in a particular age group should be compared with normal range of values for the respective age group only.

1 illus, 4 tables, 17 ref

003272   Vardhani V V (Zoology Dep, Nagarjuna Univ, Nagarjuna Nagar (A.P)-522 510) : Complications of alcoholism during murine ancylostomiasis. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(4), 849-52.

Alcoholism is the most common form of drug abuse in the world population. The specific aim of the present review is to assess the effects of alcohol on the immune system of female swiss albino mice during Ancylostoma caninum infection. Ethanol treated animals exhibited comparable depression in both natural and acquired immunity. Long standing or short period ethanol consumption acts as a chronic physiologic stress and often leads to alcoholic immunosuprression. Alcoholic mice showed a number of behavioural and immunophysiological differences following ethanol ingestion.

26 ref

003271   Thapa S;Tamang J P (Food Microbiology Lab, Botany Dep, Sikkim Government College, Gangtok-737 102, Email: jyoti_tamang@hotmail.com) : Microbiological and physico-chemical changes during fermentation of kodo ko jaanr, a traditional alcoholic beverage of the Darjeeling hills and Sikkim. Indian J Microbiol 2006, 46(4), 333-41.

Kodo ko jaanr is a traditional fermented finger millet beverage, commonly consumed in the Darjeeling hills and Sikkim. Microbial and physico-chemical changes during fermentation of kodo ko jaanr were investigated. Population of filamentous moulds declined significantly (P<60>0.05) every d and finally disappeared after fifth d. Load of yeasts increased significantly (P°.05) from 10⁵ cfu g^-1 to 107 cfu g^-1 within second d. Lactic acid bacteria increased significantly (P<60>0.05) from 10⁶ cfu g^-1 to 10⁸ cfu g^-1 in first d and decreased significantly (P<60>0.05) to 10³ cfu g^-1 at the end. The pH decreased and acidity increased during fermentation. Alcohol content increased significantly (P<60>0.05) from 0.1% to 6.9% within sixth d. Reducing sugar content increased significantly (P<60>0.05) till third d and decreased, followed by decrease in total sugar content. Maximum activities of saccharification and liquefaction of millets were observed on second d of fermentation. It was revealed that Saccharomycopsis fibuligera and Rhizopus spp. play the major role in saccharification process of finger millet in kodo ko jaanr nentation. A combination of mould and yeast strains, isolated from kodo ko jaanr during natural fermentation, were tested for production of the same product under lab-condition. Kodo ko jaanr prepared by a mixture of Rhizopus chinensis MJ:R3 and Saccharomyces cerevisiae MJ:YS2 had scored highest in general acceptability.

6 tables, 36 ref