003270   Thannickal T C (Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences Dep, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA, Email: Thomastc@ucla.edu) : Role of hypocretin/orexin in health and emerging therapeutics. Sci Soc 2007, 5(2), 127-38.

Hypocretins (orexins) are two novel neuropeptides (Hcrt-l and Hcrt-2), derived from the same precursor gene, that are synthesized by neurons located exclusively in the lateral, posterior, and perifornical hypothalamus. Hcrt neurons send diffuse projections throughout the brain, and their projection targets suggest that they have a neuromodulatory role in neuroendocrine and homeostatic functions. Deficiency in hypocretin neurotransmission results in narcolepsy, Parkinson's disease and other neurological and psychological disorders. Hypocretins are one of the first endogenous ligands discovered for orphan Gªprotein coupled receptors. Hypocretin deficiency directly involved in the pathophysiology of several neurological disorders. New animal models are also likely to help in the unraveling of many human diseases.

1 table, 59 ref

003269   Suryawanshi N P;Bhutey A K;Nagdeote A N; Jadhav A A;Manoorkar G S (Biochemistry Dep, Govt. Medical College, Vazirabad, Nanded-461 601, Email: drsuryanarayan@yahoo.co.in) : Lipid peroxide and lipid profile in diabetes mellitus. Indian J clin Biochem 2006, 21(1), 126-30.

Study was designed to find out the correlation between lipid peroxidation, lippprotein levels to severity and complication of diabetes mellitus. Degree of lipid peroxidation was measured in terms of malondialdehyde (MDA) along with lipid profile and blood glucose in diabetes mellitus.lt is categorised into insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM), non insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) and diabetes mellitus(DM) with complication. Total 112 known diabetic patients and 52 non-diabetic controls were studied.These patients were grouped as per the concentration of fasting blood glucose level i.e. controlled, poorly controlled, and uncontrolled group. There are significant increase in the lipid peroxide (MDA) and lipid profile except HDL cholesterol which is decreased, has been found in all groups as compared to controls. In NIDDM group lipid peroxidation was markedly increased than IDDM group and it was higher in DM with complications. Other finding observed was that the level of lipid peroxide increased as per the increase in concentration of blood glucose. The increase lipid peroxidation in the hyperglycemic condition may be explained, as the superoxide dismutase enzyme which is antioxidant becomes inactive due the formation of superoxide radical within the cell. Maximum lipid peroxidation leads to the damage of the tissue and organs which results into complication in diabetic patients. High levels of total cholesterol appear due to increased cholesterol synthesis. The triglyceride levels changes according to the glycemic control. The increase may be due to overproduction of VLDL-TG. It is concluded that good metabolic control of hyperglycemia will prevent in alteration in peroxidation and the lipid metabolism, which may help in good prognosis and preventing manifestation of vascular and secondary complication in diabetes mellitus.

5 tables, 16 ref

003268   Sur S;Sen A;Bothra A (Molecular Genetics Lab, Botany Dep, North Bengal University, Siliguri-734 013, Email: senarnab_nbu@hotmail.com) : Codon usage profiling and analysis of intergenic association of Frankia EuIK1 nif genes. Indian J Microbiol 2006, 46(4), 363-9.

Frankia is an actinomycete that makes symbiotic association with a number of woody dicotyledonous plants. It has the ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen and the most important genes for nitrogen fixation are the nif genes located in the nif operon. Reports the codon preference and mutational response index in 12 characterized nif genes of Frankia EuIK1. It was found that the genes are highly biased and this is due to both mutational pressure and translational selection. Correspondence analysis of the RSCU values for the nif genes revealed that the GC3 compositional bias plays an important role in the codon usage variation among them. The codon preference in the nif genes of Frankia were compared with the nif genes of symbiotic nitrogen fixing bacteria Bradyrhizobium japonicum. B. japonicum nif genes had relatively low codon preferences than Frankia which was found to be due to low G+C content in its genomic constitution. Besides, unlike Frankia, codon preference of B. japonicum was due to translational selection and not due to mutational pressure.

3 illus, 2 tables, 18 ref

003267   Srivastava N (Botany PG Dep, , Govt. College, Kota (Rajasthan)-324 005) : Effect of mutant rhizobial inoculants on growth and nondulation in Cyamopsis tetragonoloba. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(4), 871-2.

Three types of resistant/sensitive(neomycin resistant mutant tetracycline resistant mutant and erythromycin, sensitive mutant) mutants of native Rhizobium of Cymopsis tetragonoloba L. were isolated after mutagenic treatment with ethylmethan sulponate (EMS). The effectivity of native as well as two antibiotic resistant and one sensitive mutant strain of rhizobia indicated that all these differ markedly from each other with regard to influencing growth and nodulation in C. tetragonoloba.

1 table, 8 ref

003266   Singh R;Vijjaya;Kabra M (Biochemistry Dep, Lady Hardinge Medical College, Shaheed Bhagat Singh Marg, New Delhi, Email: mail2rs@indiatimes.com) : Multiplex PCR for rapid detection of exonal deletions in patients of duchenne muscular dystrophy. Indian J clin Biochem 2006, 21(1), 147-51.

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is the most common X-linked disorder in children affecting 1 in 3500 males. Since, as of now author have no treatment for DMD, carrier detection and prenatal diagnosis is the most important preventive strategy. Multiplex PCR helps in rapid detection of hot spot exonal deletions (positive in 65% of cases ) as many exons can be identified in a single run. 10 children with characterstic clinical features of DMD and chorionic villus samples of 10 antenatal patients with positive family history were studied Identified a deletion mutation in exon 49 of the dystrophin gene in a 4 yr old boy referred with signs and symptoms suggestive of DMD using primers for exons 45, 48, 49, 43, 44, 19, 3, 8, 13 and muscle promoter, subjected to multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and agarose/Nu-Sieve gel electrophoresis. These genetic methods aid in prenatal diagnosis of DMD as well as confirmation of diagnosis in children with signs and symptoms suggestive of the disease.

18 ref

003265   Sharma P;Singh N;Singh V;Singh S;Singh H V; Gupta S (Biochemistry Dep, G. R. Medical College, Gwalior Madhya Pradesh) : Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and estrogen hormone in osteoarthritic female patients. Indian J clin Biochem 2006, 21(1), 205-7.

Study is being carried out in 130 female subject of age group 40-60 years suffering from osteoarthritis of knee joints and 50 normal healthy control female subjects. A correlation is made between TNF-α and estrogen and found significant inverse correlation (r<60>0.001), between TNF-α and estrogen hormone in osteoarthritic female patients as compared to normal healthy control female group.

2 tables, 12 ref

003264   Sharma N;Wati L;Singh D;Nigam P (Microbiology Dep, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar-125 004, Email: lwkraj@hau.ernet.in) : Optimized remediation of anaerobically digested molasses spent wash from biogas and simultaneous production of lactic acid. Indian J Microbiol 2006, 46(4), 343-7.

Isolates of lactic acid bacteria were obtained by enrichment using anaerobically digested molasses spent wash (ADMSW), a dark brown colored effluent with high COD, obtained from biomethanation plant. The isolates could grow in 25%, v/v ADMSW medium supplemented with 3% sucrose, 4% moong bean sprouts (w/v) and 0.125% diammonium phosphate. In the fermentation process, the organic load in terms of COD was reduced by 55.2% with 67.2% decolorization of the effluent. During the process, lactic acid was produced by the bacterial isolates with an average yield of 17.7 gL^-1 in 96 h fermentation.

4 tables, 17 ref

003263   Sahasrabuddhe S H;Porwal N (NO, , LB-53, 'Utkarsh' Housing Board Colony, Laxmi Nagar, Nagpur-440 022) : Microbial testing of curry leaf oil against one of the dandruff causing fungi. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(4), 863-6.

Considering the problem of dandruff and the importance of herbs and herbal products in the market, one of the traditionally important common herb of India i.e. curry leaf has been evaluated microbiologically to check its anti-dandruff properties. For doing so, the organisms were firstly isolated from the scalps of subjects with prominent dandruff condition. The colonies of organisms were then isolated and identified under the microscope. Of the organisms obtained Malassezia (dandruff causing fungi) was then tested against curry leaf oil and then the minimum inhibition concentration of the oil for malassezia is determined.

8 illus, 1 ref

003262   Rup Lal;Simran Jit;Verma M;Dadhwal M;Ajaib Singh;Om Prakash;Sharma P;Khanna M (Zoology Dep, University of Delhi, Delhi-110 007, Email: ijmami@gmail.com) : Nanoorganisms: smallest form of life got smaller. Indian J Microbiol 2006, 46(4), 413.

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003261   Rup Lal;Sharma P;Hansi Kumari;Mukesh Kumar; Kirti Kumari;Gupta S K;Malhotra S;Rekha Kumari (Zoology Dep, University of Delhi, Delhi-110 007, Email: ijmami@gmail.com) : Metagenomics: you are what your bacteria eat!. Indian J Microbiol 2006, 46(4), 414.

^ssc6 ref

003260   Resmi C R;Venukumar M R;Latha M S (Zoology P.G. & Research Dep, N.S.S. Hindu College, Changanassery-686 102, Email: venukumarmr2000@yahoo.co.in) : Antioxidant activity of Albizzia lebbeck (Linn.) Benth. in alloxan diabetic rats. Indian J Physiol Pharmac 2006, 50(3), 297-302.

Evaluates the antioxidant potential of aqueous extract of Albizzia lebbeck (ALL) in diabetic rats. The oxidative stress in alloxan-induced diabetic rats was determined by estimating the levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), conjugated dienes (CD) and reduced glutathione (GSH) in liver and kidneys. Activities of antioxidant enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and glutathione S transferase (GST) were assessed in diabetic as well as rats co-administered with ALL. Oxidative damage in the liver and kidneys of diabetic rats as evidenced by a marked increment in the levels of TBARS and CD, and also a distinct diminution in GSH content was nullified by ALL, as these parameters showed a tendency to retrieve towards normalcy on co-administration of the herbal drug. The antioxidant enzymes registered a decline in activity in diabetic rats thus revealing the damaging effects of free radicals generated due to alloxan exposure. The activities of these enzymes returned to normalcy in ALL-administered rats indicating the antioxidant efficacy of the drug in resisting oxidative insult. The findings provide a rationale for further studies on isolation of active principles and pharmacological evaluation.

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003259   Reetha D;Stella D;Deiveekasundaram M (Microbiology Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalai Nagar-608 002, Email: drejeban@rediffmail.com) : Growth, exopolysaccharide (EPS) production and adhesion of Azospirillum lipoferum SFA-1 as influenced by salinity. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(4), 807-9.

Experiment was carried out to study the effect of different levels of salinity imposed on growth, exopolysaccharide production and adhesion of Azospirillum lipoferum SFA-1 to sunflower roots. The results showed that the growth, EPS production and adhesion of Azospirillum lipoferum SFA-1 was affected by the salinity. But the bacterium, Azospirillum lipoferum SFA-1 could tolerate the saline stress upto 200 mM of NaCl concentration. It was also observed that the growth, EPS production and adhesion were negatively correlated with increasing levels of NaCl and the EPS production and adhesion was found to be positively correlated with each other.

1 table, 12 ref

003258   Rani E;Sunitha M;Devaki K (Biochemistry Dep, Karpagam Arts & Science College, Coimbatore-641 021, Email: devaki22d@yahoo.com) : Comparative study of ethanol production by batch fermentation using free cells of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Zymomonas mobilis. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(4), 745-9.

Saccharine material cane sugar (5%) was utilized for ethanol production through batch fermentation by the free cells of yeast strain Saccharomyces cerevisiae and bacterial strain Zymomonas mobilis. During fermentation samples were taken at various time intervals like 12,24,36,48,60,72,84and 96 hours and they were analyzed for biomass. pH,residual sugar and alcohol percentage. After fermentation the samples were analysed and yield of ethanol was calculated. The total volatile acid was also estimated. After distillation the effluent was assayed for color, odor, pH, Total suspended solids(TSS)and Total dissolved solids(TDS).The ethanol yield by canesugar (5%) through fermentation was found to be 44.78% and 46.76% by Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Zymomonas mobilis respectively.

5 tables, 14 ref

003257   Rana A P S;Rana S P;Rana J P;Taranpreet Kaur (NO, , ALT. CMOS, Sunnyvale, CA 94087, USA, Email: marty@alt-cmos.com) : Base excess significantly corrected for the variations in apparent dissociation constant for human blood gas testing. Indian J Physiol Pharmac 2006, 50(3), 303-8.

Introduces a pragmatic approach towards the corrected Base Excess (BE) by including the large variability of the apparent dissociation constant pK' in non-logarithmic form in Henderson-Hasselbach bicarbonate ion equilibria thereby resulting in a significant correction both in calculated bicarbonate ion concentration and BE at 37°C.

1 illus, 1 table, 13 ref

003256   Patil R C;Teotia M S;Katchi V I;Rao A J; Upadhye M V (Microbiology Dep, Bhavan's College, Andheri (W), Mumbai-400 058) : Antimicrobial activity of extracts of Glycyrrhiza glabra and Tinospora cordifolia on MDR strains. Pl Archs 2007, 7(2), 835-7.

The increase of antibiotic resistance of microorganisms to conventional drugs has necessitated the search for new, efficient and cost effective ways for the control of infectious diseases. Many studies have showed that medicinal plants constitute a great source for the isolation of active drugs. The present study was undertaken to investigate the antibacterial activity of extracts prepared from Glycyrrhiza glabra and Tinospora cordifolia against clinically isolated Multiple drug resistant MDR strains. The minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of the plant extracts was also found out.

2 tables, 5 ref

003255   Patil D B;Kshirsagar A A (Chemistry Dep, Institute of Science, Nagpur-440 001) : Chlorobenzoic acids as a Glycinemax urease inhibitors. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(4), 861-2.

Inhibition of the glycinemax urease calatysed hydrolysis of urea by benzoic acid, o-benzoic acid, p-benzoic acid and 2, 4 - dichlorobenzoic acid has been carried out on the basis of kinetic measurement of urea hydrolysis. The concentration of urea was varied in the range of 0.40 x 10^-2M to 2.50 x 10^-2M and that of inhibitor was maintained 3.0 x 10^-3M. The Michaelis constant, K_m apperent Michaelis constant, K_mapp. and dissociation constant of enzyme - inhibitor complex, k_i were determined at pH 6.80 and temperature 37.0°C. All the chlorobenzoic acids shows competitive type of inhibition.

9 ref

003254   Patel S P;Katyare S S (Biochemistry Dep, Faculty of Science, The Maharaja Sayajirao Univ Baroda, Vadodara, Gujarat-390 002, Email: sskatyaremsu2001@yahoo.com) : Comparative study of reactive oxygen species (ROS) related parameters in rat tissues. Indian J clin Biochem 2006, 21(1), 48-53.

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are believed to be responsible for pathogenesis of various diseases affecting tissues and systems. ROS generated by mitochondrial electron transport chain as well as extra-mitochondrially are eliminated by the respective defense mechanisms. Checks the activity of ROS generating system such as xanthine oxidase and also the parameter of ROS defense mechanism e.g. superoxide dismutase(SOD), catalase, glutathione peroxidase (GPox), reduced glutathione content (GSH) and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH) in mitochondrial and post-mitochondrial fractions from various tissues (liver, kidney, brain and heart) of normal rats. Extent of lipid peroxidation (LPO) which is immediate consequence of ROS generation was also examined. Our results shows that significant tissue-specific differences exist in mitochondrial and cytosolic ROS generating systems and ROS defense mechanisms.

2 illus, 37 ref

003253   Parameswari C S;Vijayageetha B;Vijayakumar R (Biochemistry Post Graduate Dep, Bharathi Women's College, Chennai-600 108) : Effect of supplementation of vitamin E, vitamin c and reduced glutathione on copper ion induced lipoprotein oxidation in renal diseased patients - an in vitro study. Indian J clin Biochem 2006, 21(1), 131-6.

Oxidative modification of lipoprotein especially low density lipoprotein (LDL) plays a key role in the initiation and progression of atherosclerosis. Serum apolipoproteinB (apoB) level is found to be an important marker for atherosclerosis. The present paper focuses on the measurement of" serum apoB levels and the effect of Vitamin E, Vitamin C and reduced glutathione on the copper ion induced oxidation of LDL + VLDL (VLDL-Very Low Density Lipoprotein) lipoprotein fraction isolated from the serum of chronic renal failure (CRF) and renal transplanted patients. The level of apoB is significantly higher in the serum of transplanted patients when compared to CRF patients and normal subjects. The level of TBARS formed in oxidized LDL + VLDL lipoprotein fraction of CRF and renal transplanted patients are significantly increased than normal even in the presence of antioxidants but the level of TBARS produced with antioxidants is comparatively lesser than that produced by oxidized lipoprotein fraction without antioxidants. It may be concluded that oxidation of LDL can be prevented at an earlier stage by Vitamin E supplementation. The supplementation with Glutathione serves as the best method of preventing the lipoprotein oxidation among the renal diseased patients.

4 illus, 1 table, 28 ref

003252   Omoregie E S;Osagie A U (Biochemistry Dep, Benin Univ, Benin City, Nigeria, Email: ehiomoregie@yahoo.co.uk) : Phytochemical screening and anti-anaemic effect of Jatropha tanjorensis leaf in protein malnourished rats. Pl Archs 2007, 7(2), 509-16.

Phytochemical screening was conducted on Jatropha tanjorensis leaf. It revealed the presence of tannins, saponins, flavonoids, anthraquinones and cardiac glycosides. The leaves were evaluated for anti-anaemic activity in protein malnourished rats. Standard rat feed was supplemented with Jatropha tanjorensis leaf and fed to the experimental rats for ten weeks. The rats fed the leaf supplemented diet showed significantly increased (P<60>0.05) levels of packed cell volume (PCV), haemoglobin (HB), platelets, total protein and albumin when compared with controls. The rats fed the protein deficient diet (PDD) had significantly reduced levels of these haematological indices compared with control. Histopathological examination of the liver and kidney of the rats fed the protein deficient diet revealed evidence of severe fatty changes. Whereas, the rats fed the leaf supplements had normal liver and kidney histology. It is suggested that the leaf may exert its anti-anaemic activity through anti-oxidative mechanism. These findings suggest that Jatropha tanjorensis leaf has both protective and preventive roles towards ameliorating anaemia.

7 illus, 4 tables, 34 ref

003251   Nigam P K;Narain V S;Ajay Kumar (Cardiology Dep, King George's Medical Univ, Lucknow-226 003) : Sialic acid in cardiovascular diseases. Indian J clin Biochem 2006, 21(1), 54-61.

Sialic acid, the acylated derivatives of 9-carbon sugar neuraminic acid, present as terminal component of oligosaccharide chains of many glycoproteins and glycolipids, has been recognized to be involved in the regulation of a great variety of biological phenomena. Studies have shown that serum sialic acid predicts both coronary heart disease and stroke mortality and reflects the existence or activity of an atherosclerotic process. Most of the studies have shown an elevation in serum sialic acid concentration in coronary heart disease and a positive correlation between the raised serum sialic acid and the severity of the coronary lesions is observed. However, a few contradictory reports are also available. Racial differences in serum sialic acid have also been reported and correlated with international differences in the prevalence of atherosclerosis. Reduced sialic acid content of platelets, erythrocytes and lipoproteins may play important role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Elucidation of the mechanism of alternation in sialic acid concentration may throw more light on its potential clinical utility. Hence more studies are needed to designate sialic acid as a cardiovascular risk factor/marker.

63 ref

003250   Neeta Singh (Biochem Dep, AIIMS, New Delhi-110 029) : Molecular targets for cancer prevention and therapy. Ann Natn Acad Med Sci 2006, 42(4), 283-98.

Cancer is caused by accumulation of genetic damage in a susceptible cell. Majority of cancer causing mutations affect proteins that regulate essential cellular functions such as cell proliferation, cell cycle, differentiation, angiogenesis and apoptosis. Dominant mutations convert proto-oncogenes to oncogenes, and recessive mutations inactivate tumor suppressor genes. Many of the genes that are altered in human cancer define molecular pathways that are central to the control of the above processes. These pathways are not strictly linear but, rather, constitute molecular networks. The pathway of growth factors and cell cycle include Tyrosine Kinase receptors and downstream signaling via phospholipase C, Ras, PI-3 kinase, cdks. The dysregulation of these signals in tumor cell leads to multiple cellular changes. Therapeutic approaches include monoclonal antibodies against growth factors receptors, antisense oligos against key target proteins, enzyme inhibitors, antiangiogenic therapy, apoptotic triggers/ activating death signaling pathways. Nutrients such as Vitamin D, Selenium, folate, curcumin, flavonoids, etc. also influence the above molecular targets and can help in cancer prevention.

4 illus, 1 table, 17 ref

003249   Narasimhan R (NO, CMC Limited, 11/2, Palace Road, Bangalore-560 052, Email: naras.r@gmail.com) : Language behaviour and the brain: some fundamental questions. Curr Sci 2007, 92(4), 464-71.

Concerned with the study of the behaviour of biological organisms. It argues from first principles the thesis that such studies cannot be reduced to physics and chemistry in any meaningful sense and sought to be solved through the use of mathematical physics. The formalism needed for the study of organismic behaviour is the formalism that underlies the study of information processing systems. In trying to study language behaviour the emphasis is, or should be, on studying behaviour and not on some formal theoretical notion of language. Concerns with how the brain supports the integrated behaviour of any organism. In particular how does the brain support, in the case of human beings, behaviour in the language modality? Studying language behaviour poses special problems because language behaviour cuts across all other modalities (e.g. vision, manipulation, etc.) and in a genuine sense integrates them. What is the appropriate method of analysing language behaviour to understand (and model) this integrating role of behaviour in this modality? Concerned with fundamental issues that arise which have to cope with, but do not understand at present.

1 illus, 5 ref

003248   Narang A P S;Bains H S;Kansal S;Singh D (Biochemistry Dep, Dayanand Medical College and Hospital, Ludhiana-141 001) : Serial composition of human milk in preterm and term mothers. Indian J clin Biochem 2006, 21(1), 89-94.

Human milk samples were collected from 86 mothers included in the study on days 3, 7, 14 and 28 of lactation. The mothers were divided into three groups on the basis of gestation viz. group 1 : 37-41 weeks (n=41), group II : 33-36 (n=23) and group III : <60>33 weeks gestation (n=22). All the samples were analysed for the estimation of fat, lactose and protein. The results obtained from the investigations were statistically analysed. The analysis of the results revealed a lower amount of fat and lactose in preterm milk as compared to term milk (p <60> 0.01). These were found to increase in amount with increasing postnatal age (p <60> 0.05). The protein levels were observed to be significantly higher in preterm than term milk (p <60> 0.01). These were observed to decrease significantly with increase in postnatal age (p <60> 0.01).

3 tables, 17 ref

003247   Mohanty S;Nayak N;Nanda N N;Rao P (NO, Kamineni Institute of Medical Sciences, Narketpally, Nalgonda District, Andhra Pradesh-508 254, Email: shruti_mohanty@yahoo.co.in) : Serum lipids and malondialdehyde levels in primiparous patients with pregnancy induced hypertension. Indian J clin Biochem 2006, 21(1), 189-92.

Seventy primiparous PIH patients and 20 healthy controls were studied. Serum lipids and MDA were estimated. Maternal blood pressures and birth weights of the neonate were recorded. Serum cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL, VLDL and MDA were significantly elevated in primiparous PIH patients when compared to control subjects. Average birth weight of babies born to mothers with PIH was less than those born to control subjects. The most significant factor was that in this geographical area, 26% of the primiparous patients with PIH were below 20 years of age while only 15% of the controls were less than 20 years, indicating that younger maternal age was a contributing factor to PIH.

5 tables, 20 ref

003246   Misra J P;Abidi A B (Bio-chemistry Dep, N. D. Uni. of Agric. and Tech., Kumarganj, Faizabad-224 229) : Response of zinc sulphate doses on milling and cooking quality of hybrid rice varieties. Prog Agric 2007, 7(1-2), 49-51.

A field experiment was conducted during to Kharif seasons 2001-02 and 2002-03 at Student's Instructional Farm of N. D. University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Faizabad (U.P.) to find out the performance of hybrid rice varieties and their zinc sulphate requirements. Five varieties of hybrid rice viz NDRH-2, Proagro-6111, Proagro-6201, Proagro-6207 and Proagro-6444 were tested in five doses of zinc sulphate viz., 0, 10, 20, 30 and 40 Kg/ha ZnSO₄. Milling and cooking quality of hybrid rice were observed over all better performance was found in variety Proagro-6444 with application of 30 kg ha-1 zinc sulphate during both the years of investigation].

2 tables, 8 ref

003245   Mishra P;Upmanyu N;Mehta A (NO, GLA Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, 17 Km Stone Delhi Mathura National Highway, Post Chaumuhan, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, Email: pmishra51@rediffmail.com) : In vitro anti-microbial activity of some 5-aryl-4-(substituted amino)-3-mercapto-1, 2, 4-triazoles. Indian J Microbiol 2006, 46(4), 401-4.

Ten new 5-aryl-4-(substituted amino)-3-mercapto-l,2,4-triazoles were synthesized and evaluated for anti-microbial activity. Some of them were found to be active.

^ssc2 tables, 21 ref

003244   Meshkibaf M H;Ebrahimi A;Ghodsi R;Ahmadi A (Biochemistry Dep, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Fars, Iran) : Choronic effects of lamotrigine on liver function in adult male rats. Indian J clin Biochem 2006, 21(1), 161-4.

A number of newly developed antiepileptic drugs are currently in use, among them Lamotrigine (LTG) is more common. Despite the extensive use of this drug, it has not been possible to predict the side effects especially the hepatotoxic reactions after long-term treatment. The study was designed to find out alterations in the activities of liver enzymes after chronic exposure of rats to different dose of LTG. Adults male (Wistar) rats were treated orally with LTG [5 mg/kg body weight or 25mg/kg body wt.] for 60 days. After the experimental period, auto analyzer carried out liver function tests. The liver histopathology was obtained after scarifying the rats. There was a significant increase in the level of ALP, AST, ALT and bilirubin at therapeutic dose of LTG. The increase level of these enzymes and bilirubin at toxic dose were much higher and significant. However, the total protein and albumin significantly decreased at toxic dose of LTG. Elevation of liver enzymes and bilirubin after chronic exposure of rats to high dose of LTG reflects hepatocellular damage that may lead to hepatitis. It is concluded that regular liver function and drug monitoring should follow the treatment with LTG.

3 illus, 1 table, 13 ref

003243   Mary S;Shelaja;Prakash J W;Regini G S (Botany Dep, Research Centre Scott Christian College, Nagercoil, Tamil Nadu) : The effect of Rhizobium japonicam (bacteria) in growth and yield of Phaseolus mungo. Pl Archs 2007, 7(2), 651-2.

Effect of Rhizobium japonicam on Phaseolus mungo Roxb. was studied. Morphological character was like root length, shoot length were high when compared to that of control. The biochemical parameters like chlorophyll, protein and free amino acids were estimated. The effect of Rhizobium japonicam shows high yield than control.

1 table, 6 ref

003242   Maneesh M;Jayalakshmi H;Singh T A;Chakrabarti A (Biochemistry Dep, Melaka Manipal Medical College, Manipal, Karnataka) : Impaired hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis function in men with diabetes mellitus. Indian J clin Biochem 2006, 21(1), 165-8.

Study was designed to investigate the functional status of hypothalamic pituitary gonadal (HPG) axis in diabetic men. Thirty-five diabetic men (BMI 22.24 ± 0 21) in the age group 20-40 (30.6 ± 4.7) years were selected. Twenty-five healthy men (BMI 23.85 ± 0.25), in the same age group (29.5 ± 4.8) served as control. Blood samples were collected for hormonal and biochemical estimations. Diabetic men had significantly low serum testosterone with low LH and FSH, hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia, hypoalbuminemia and increased oxidative stress. Low serum testosterone in diabetic men was accompanied by low LH and FSH; the inability of the pituitary gland to respond appropriately to a decline in testosterone implying central effect of high serum glucose on the interaction between the nervous and endocrine system. Nutritional deficiency, increased oxidative stress and increased aromatase activity due to excessive body fat might have also contributed to low serum testosterone.

2 tables, 22 ref

003241   Malati T;Rajani Kumari G;Murthy P V L N;Ram Reddy C;Surya Prakash B (Biochemistry Dep, Nizam's Institute of Medical Sciences, Panjagutta, Hyderabad-500 082) : Prostate specific antigen in patients of benign prostate hypertrophy and carcinoma prostate. Indian J clin Biochem 2006, 21(1), 34-40.

Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) has emerged as the most applicable and important tumor marker for carcinoma prostate. In the present study PSA was determined in serum of healthy subjects, patients of benign prostate hypertrophy (BPH) and Carcinoma Prostate (Ca-P) to evaluate its diagnostic efficiency in day to day management of prostate cancer patients and in differentiating patients of early prostate cancer from those with BPH. Receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) revealed 2 ng/ml and 10 ng/ml cut off serum PSA level for BPH and untreated carcinoma prostate patients (Ca-P). An extremely significant increase (P<60>0.0001) was observed in mean PSA concentration in BPH patients and adenocarcinoma prostate patients when compared to healthy males. Clinical relevance of PSA was highlighted by a case study of cancer patient prior to any therapy till death.

1 illus, 4 tables, 22 ref

003240   Mahesh Kumar;Shahi S K;Shahi M P;Choudhary S (Microbiology Dep, Center for Advance Research and Development, Janta Vedic P.G. College, Baraut-250 611) : Mycoparasitism of Trichoderma harzianum against fusarium oxysporum and Aspergillus niger in In vitro conditions. Pl Archs 2007, 7(2), 741-3.

The antagonism between Trichoderma harzianum against two soilborne fungi Fusarium oxysporum schlecht and Aspergillus niger were studied in in vitro conditions. It was found that the antagonisms employed by Trichoderma harzianum when grow in same petridishes (dual culture techniques was used). Inoculated petridishes was sealed with microparafilm. Initially, host fungi grew towards Trichoderma harzianum, however the radial growth of Fusarium oxysporum and Aspergillus niger regular in shape before it could made contact with growing colony of Trichoderma harzianum showing visible inhibition zone 4 mm. by Fusarium oxysporum while 2 mm. inhibition zone was found in Aspergillus niger. Study also showed that antagonicity gradually over grew the Fusarium oxysporum, Aspergillus niger and inhibited the growth with in 10 days of incubation in BOD. No inhibition zone was observed in the same species of all fungi inoculated in petridishes. It is concluded that Trichoderma harzianum showed antagonicity against Fusarium oxysporum and Aspergillus niger.

1 illus, 16 ref

003239   Kumar M;Choudhary S;Shahi S K;Shahi M P (Microbiology Dep, Center for Adavance Research and Development, Janta Vedic P.G. College, Baraut-250 611) : Standardization of different substrates for the mass production of conidial yield of entomopatogenic fungus Metarhizium anisopliae. Pl Archs 2007, 7(2), 719-20.

Metarhizium anisopliae evaluated for the conidial sporulation on grains of wheat, barley, sorghum, rice and bajra. Out of five grain the highest conidial sporulation were found on rice grain. But it reveal difficulty during mass production, due to boiling of rice grain and conversion in to compact mass form during sterilization, it create problem for extraction of the conidial mass from conidial flask in solid state fermentation conditions. So sorghum grain is better than rice grain for the mass production of conidial yield by Metarhizium anisopliae.

1 table, 15 ref

003238   Krishnaveni N;Aparna M S;Poonkothai M (Zoology and Life Sciences Dep, Avinashilingam Univ Women, Coimbatore-43) : Arthobacter fluorescence-a nitrogen fixing bacterium. Pl Archs 2007, 7(2), 641-2.

The present investigation has been formulated to check the nitrogen fixing characters of the isolates of Arthobacter fluorescence. A fluorescence was found to be abundant in wet land soils and six isolates were isolated from the rice field. The isolates were grown in yeast extract broth and minimal medium for 5 days at 37øC. Then the amount of nitrogen fixed and its dry weight were calculated. AFl and AF6 were found to fix nitrogen in higher amount and the amount of polysaccharides and phenols were estimated. Based on the potentiality of nitrogen fixation it can be recommended to use as a biofertilizer.

1 table, 7 ref

003237   Kothari S T;Deshmukh R A (Virology Dep, Haffkine Institute for Training, Research and Testing, A.D. Marg, Parel, Mumbai-12) : Estimation of mRNA levels of interleukin (IL) - 10, tumor necrosis factor (TNF) - <97> IL - 4 and interferon (IFN) -γ in HIV infected children in Mumbai. Indian J clin Biochem 2006, 21(1), 15-26.

Cytokines, viral load and opportunistic infections play an important role in HIV-disease progression. Hundred children vertically infected with HIV were enrolled to determine mRNA levels of TNF-α, IL-10, IL-4 and IFN -γ. These levels were estimated by amplifying cytokine mRNA from peripheral " blood mononuclear cells. Severity of HIV was staged by the reduction in CD₄⁺ T cells and the onset of opportunistic infections. IL- 10 mRNA levels were observed to increase with the severity. Despite the rising IL-10 mRNA levels, TNF-α mRNA levels increased with severity of HIV and decrease in CD₄⁺ T cell counts. IL-4 mRNA levels increased with the reduction in CD₄⁺ T cell numbers. Depleting mRNA levels of IFN - γ contributed to the worsening of HIV disease. Increase in TNF-α and IL-4 levels appended to the disease severity by upregulation of the viral replication. Increased IL-10 levels and decreased IFN-γ levels predisposed the children to HIV associated opportunistic infections, which in return contributed to cytokine disarray.

3 illus, 6 tables, 37 ref

003236   Kiran B R;Puttaiah E T;Raghavendra S; Ravikumar M (Environmental Science Dep, Bioscience Complex, Kuvempu Univ, Shankaraghatta-577 451) : Ecological studies on aquatic macrophytic vegetation in Shivaji tank, Karnataka, India. Pl Archs 2007, 7(2), 637-9.

Deals with the diversity of aquatic macrophytes in Shivaji tank of Bhadravathi taluk, Karnataka during the period of August 2006 to January 2007. A total of 14 species of aquatic vegetation belonging to one free floating, two each in respect of rooted floating and submerged varieties, five emergent and four marshy amphibious categories were recorded. Species spectrum includes Azolla pinnata, Nymphaea stellata, Trapa bispinosa, Hydrilla verticillata, Ceralophyllum demersum, Alternanthera philoxeroides, Cynodon dactylon, Cyperus sp., Ipomea aquatica, Typha sp., Polygonum glabrum, Marsilea quadrifolia, Bergia capensis and Monochoria species. Among them, 9 macrophytes were found to occur throughout the months of the study, which showed seasonal vegetative growth.

1 table, 17 ref

003235   Karthick A;Jayashree V S (Microbiol Dep, Dr. G.R. Damodaran Coll of Sci, Avanashi Road, Civil Aerodrome Post, Coimbatore-641 014) : Molecular study on marine azotobacter spp. Sci Soc 2007, 5(2), 189-94.

Azotobacter spp are diazotrophic organisms which help in fixing atmospheric nitrogen efficiently, resulting in effective plant growth. Present study deals with the isolation of Azotobacter spp from different environment (marine and terrestrial) and performing various molecular techniques like DNA isolation,agarose gel electrophoresis and PCR. Agarose gel electrophoresis was done in order to compare the banding pattern between the genome of different isolates of Azotobacter spp. It was found that there were no significant differences in the banding pattern of different strains used. Also genome of Azotobacter with reference to the marine and standard strains, were subjected to PCR in order to amplify the nifH gene that encodes dinitrogenase which is an important part of nitrogenase complex. It was observed that the marine strain gave positive amplification with the specific nifH primer used in the present study. Molecular methods based on PCR detection of the nifH marker gene have been successfully applied to describe diazotroph populations in the marine environment.

17 ref

003234   Kamath U;Rao G;Kamath S U;Rai L (Biochemistry Dep, Melaka Manipal Medical College, Manipal-576 104) : Maternal and fetal indicators of oxidative stress during intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR). Indian J clin Biochem 2006, 21(1), 111-15.

Demonstrates the possibility of increased lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation in both maternal and fetal erythrocytes as markers of oxygen radical activity during intrauterine growth retardation. The erythrocyte MDA levels were significantly elevated in mothers of IUGR babies when compared to controls (p<60>0.01) The endogenous protein damage due to oxidative stress was significantly higher in IUGR mothers when compared to controls (p<60>0.05). Similarly the proteolytic activity in erythrocyte lysates against oxidatively damaged hemoglobin was significantly increased in mothers of IUGR babies compared to controls (p<60>0.001). In fetuses born with IUGR, both lipid peroxidation and proteolytic activity were significantly increased when compared to normal newborns (p<60>0.01). The result of this study indicates that oxidative stress was induced both in IUGR babies and their mothers which is manifested as increased lipid peroxidation and protein oxidant damage.

2 tables, 29 ref

003233   Kale K;Rawat D K (Biochemistry Dep, The Institute of Science, 15, Madame Cama Road, Mumbai-400 032) : Effect of obesity and insulin resitance on diabetic control. Indian J clin Biochem 2006, 21(1), 83-8.

On selected 50 each group diabetic patient and normal, following blood investigations has been performed - Plasma Glucose, Glycohemoglobin and Serum Insulin. Individuals patient's results were analyzed and compared with the normal controls. The changes in glycosylated haemoglobin are mainly proportional to the post lunch glucose level (r = 0.773) (p <60> 0.01) and not correlated to circulating insulin or the body mass index. However the levels were higher in obese diabetes (Type I and II both) than in non-obese. Mechanism of resistance in insulin receptor interactions due to obesity is well known. However, obesity does not seem to affect directly glycosylated haemoglobin. Under such circumstances, the reduction of weight for a diabetic person can improve sugar control by minimizing insulin resistance and thereby can improve glycosylated haemoglobin levels.

4 illus, 24 ref

003232   Hameeda B;Rupela O P;Reddy G (Microbiology Dep, Osmania University, Hyderabad-500 007, Email: gopalred@hotmail.com) : Antagonistic activity of bacteria inhibiting composts against soil-borne plant pathogenic fungi. Indian J Microbiol 2006, 46(4), 389-96.

Two hundred and seven bacteria were isolated from four different sources viz. farm waste compost (FWC), rice straw compost (RSC), Gliricidia vermicompost (GVC) and macrofauna (earthworms, centipedes, slugs and snails). All the isolates were tested for antagonistic activity on four soil borne plant pathogenic fungi, Sclerotium rolfsii, Macrophomina phaseolina, Fusarium solan; and Fusarium oxysporum. Percentage of antagonistic bacteria varied from 19 in FWC to 39 in GVC. Of the 207 isolates, eighteen were antagonistic to all four soil borne plant pathogenic fungi. Inhibition was maximum on Kings B medium (63%), followed by glycerol casamino yeast extract (GCY) (49%) and potato dextrose agar (PDA) (46%). Identification of the 18 antagonistic isolates revealed that twelve belonged to genus Bacillus and six were Pseudomonas. B. licheniformis (EB 13) and Pseudomonas sp. (CDB 35) showed antifungal effect higher than other bacteria in plate culture conditions. These strains also showed significant reduction in fungal biomass when grown in broth culture. PDA amended with zinc sulphate further improved antifungal activity of EB 13 and COB 35. In glass house conditions, soil amended with glucose and/or zinc in combination with EB 13 or CDB 35 reduced M. phaseolina infection in sorghum roots and improved shoot weight.

3 illus, 2 tables, 24 ref

003231   Gulati B R;Singh B K;Kumar D (NO, Natioanl Researach Centre on Equines, Sirsa Road, Hisar-125 001, Email: brgulati@hotmail.com) : Development of a monoclonal antibody-based sandwich ELISA for detection of equine rotavirus from diarrhoeic foals. Indian J Microbiol 2006, 46(4), 349-54.

Sensitive and specific sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was developed employing a monoclonal antibody (mAb) raised against group-specific protein VP6 of rotavirus, for detection of equine rotavirus (ERV) from stool samples. This assay specifically detected rotavirus .and did not react with other representative equine viruses. On testing of stool samples from diarrhoeic foals (n=72), 23 were detected positive by ELISA, whereas RNA-PAGE could detect only 11 samples positive. The ELISA was found 100% sensitive while the sensitivity of RNA-PAGE was only 52.38% in comparison to virus isolation. The ELISA was also very specific, giving a specificity of 0.96 (0.8541≤π≤0.9932, p<60>0.05) in comparison to virus isolation. Results obtained by both virus isolation and ELISA (K = 0.9346) were comparable. The prevalence of rotavirus in diarrhoeic foals below two months of age in an organized farm located in northern India was nearly 32% as detected by this ELISA. The mAb-based ELISA developed in the study is simple to perform, highly sensitive and specific assay for detection of rotavirus from equine stool samples.

2 tables, 26 ref

003230   Goyal M M;Kalwar A K;Vyas R K;Bhati A (Biochemistry Dep, S.P. Medical College, Bikaner, Rajasthan) : Serum zinc, selenium and copper levels in carcinoma of esophagus patients. Indian J clin Biochem 2006, 21(1), 208-10.

Serum zinc and copper level were estimated using standard absorption spectrometer technique and serum selenium by Hydride generation method. Observs significant low serum levels of zinc and selenium while high level of serum copper in carcinoma esophagus patients, as compared with normal healthy controls. This shows an association of serum selenium, zinc and copper with cancer esophagus.

1 illus, 1 table, 12 ref

003229   Gothwal R K;Nigam V K;Mohan M K;Sasmal D; Ghosh P (NO, Birla Institute of Scientific Research, Statue Circle, Jaipur-302 001, Email: pghosh9@yahoo.com) : Phosphate solubilization by rhizospheric bacterial isolates from economically important desert plants. Indian J Microbiol 2006, 46(4), 355-61.

Number of rhizosphere associated microorganisms were isolated from the two of the arid zone plants. Four bacterial isolates showed maximum capability of solubilizing inorganic phosphorus substrates (tricalcium phosphate). The quantification of phosphorus solubilizing ability has been evaluated as phosphate solubilizing efficiency. It has been found that two isolates TS-1l and TS-18 have greater efficiency of solubilizing the phosphorus. The amount of solubilized phosphorus by these two isolates was found to be 1.42 g/L and 1.07 g/L after 168 and 144 h, respectively using 5.0 g/L tricalcium phosphate TCP in liquid culture. The solubilization of TCP on PVK plates was shown by T-l followed by TS-18.

3 illus, 3 tables, 18 ref

003228   Gopalakrishnan R;Chandra N C (Biochemistry Dep, All India Institute of Medical Sciences Ansari Nagar, New Delhi-110 029, Email: chandra_nc1@rediffmail.com) : Estradiol regulates insulin dependent stimulation of LDL-receptor expression in HepG₂ cells. Indian J clin Biochem 2006, 21(1), 8-14.

Low density lipoprotein, one of the major vehicle for extraneous cholesterol, internalizes into the cells through the process of LDL-receptor mediated endocytosis. The expression of LDL- receptor on the cell surface is a function of various hormone regulated transcription of the receptor gene. The study elucidates the differential expression pattern of LDL-receptor protein in human hepatoma HepG₂ cells by the influence of two hormones, insulin and estrogen (β-estradiol), as compared to the basal level expression of the receptor protein . The combined effect of insulin and β-estradiol reveals that β-estradiol is the ultimate regulator between these two hormones and supershades the message of insulin on LDL-receptor expression. The receptor protein level immunobloted by anti LDL-receptor antibody after treating cells with insulin, β-estradiol and mixture of both also reflects the same phenomena. This comparative study makes it consistent that cell saturation with sterol (β-estradiol) is the prime regulator of LDL-receptor expression between the two hormones , insulin and estrogen.

6 illus, 24 ref

003227   Godwin A;Ramachandra Prabhu H (Biochemistry Dep, Manipal College of Medical Sciences, PO Box 155, Deep Heights, Pokhara, Nepal,) : Lipid peroxidation of fish oils. Indian J clin Biochem 2006, 21(1), 202-2.

Fish and fish oils are the richest sources of ω-3 fatty acids. However, they are susceptible to lipid peroxidation due to their high degree of unsaturation. In the study, the level of thiobarbituric acid reactive material in various fish oils available in the market with and without added Vitamin E was determined. The peroxide levels in fish oil heated to food frying temperature of 180°C and the effect of addition of vitamin E has also been studied. The results indicate that the peroxide levels in almost all the products available in the market were abnormally high irrespective of their Vitamin E content. This might be due to the inefficient methods used for processing and storage of fish oils. Addition of vitamin E was found to have a significant effect in lowering the rate of peroxidation of fish oil during thermal stress, showing that association of antioxidants with ω-3 fatty acids lowers the rate of lipid peroxidation.

ref

003226   Gnanou J V;Muthayya S;Kurpad A V (NO, , 34, Nidara Ja Pager St., Pondicherry-605 001, Email: justin@iphcr.res.in) : Biological variation of plasma ferritin in healthy adult males in South Indian population - a sample study. Indian J clin Biochem 2006, 21(1), 193-5.

Sample study of biological variation of plasma ferritin in healthy adult males 19-25 years of age (n = 6) in the Indian population was determined. Venous blood was collected on 3 non-consecutive days during a 3 week period. Plasma ferritin was measured using enzyme linked immunoassay in an automated immunoassay system. Analytical and Biological variation was calculated. Finds a mean biological variation of 21.64%. Thus, results indicate that biological variation contributed most to the intraindividual variation.

1 table, 12 ref

003225   Gautam A;Vijayaraghavan R;Pant S C;Om Kumar; Stish Kumar H T (NO, Defence Research and Development Establishment, Gwalior-474 002) : Protective effect of querectin against sulphur mustard-induced oxidative stress in mice. Def Sci J 2007, 57(5), 707-20.

Sulphur mustard (SM) is a chemical warfare agent that causes serious blisters upon contact with human skin. SM alkylates DNA and several other macromolecules, and also induces oxidative stress. Quercetin, a bioflavonoid has wide pharmacological actions. The protective efficacy of quercetin (100 mg/kg, i.p. and 200 mg/kg, i.p.) was studied by administering three doses in mice against SM. The first dose was administered at 30 min prior, simultaneous, 2 h post or 24 h post, and two more doses on the next two days. SM was administered (in PEG 300) percutaneously at varying doses for survival and protection studies. SM was also administered at a dose of 2 LD₅₀ (19.3 mg/kg) with and without quercetin treatment and various biochemical markers were estimated 7 days after SM administration. Histological examinations of vital organs were also carried out. The animals administered with SM died at various days depending upon the dose. The body weight decreased significantly. Quercetin protected the mice significantly, in a doseª-dependent manner. The protection was better when the first dose of quercetin administered was 30 min prior or simultaneously. A significant decrease in reduced as well as oxidised glutathione and an increase in malondialdehyde, WBC count, RBC count, and haemoglobin were observed with 2 LD₅₀ SM. Quercetin at 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg doses significantly protected the biochemical markers when the first dose of quercetin administered was 30 min prior or as simultaneous treatment. The histological lesions induced by sulphur mustard on liver, spleen, and skin were also significantly protected by quercetin when the first dose was administered 30 min prior or as simultaneous treatment. The study shows that percutaneous administration of SM induces oxidative stress and quercetin can protect it as a prophylactic agent.

3 illus, 4 tables, 37 ref

003224   Fernandes V L C;Bhasin D K;Rana S V (NO, , H.No. 137, Sector 15-A, Chandigarh - 160 015, Email: svrana25@hotmail.com) : Enzyme activities in the descending part of the duodenum in patients of duodenal ulcer. Indian J clin Biochem 2006, 21(1), 169-72.

Aim of this study was to measure the levels of lactase, sucrase, maltase, leucine amino peptidase and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase in duodenum of Indian patients with duodenal ulcer. The effect of duodenum inflammation on these brush border enzymes has also been analysed in this study. Levels of laciase, sucrase, maltase, leucine amino peptidase and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase were assessed in duodenal biopsies of 20 patients of duodenal ulcer and 20 non-ulcer dyspepsia. The duodenal biopsy specimens were also examined histopathologically for presence or absence of inflammation. There was no significant difference (p<62>0.05) in the activity of above mentioned enzyme levels in both the groups. Only levels of gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase were significantly decreased in patients of duodenal ulcer with duodenal inflammation. This study shows that only the levels of gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase were significantly decreased in patients of duodenal ulcer with inflammation but no change in duodenal enzymes due to duodenal ulcer as compared to non-ulcer dyspepsia.

2 tables, 22 ref

003223   Emokpae M A;Uadia P O (Biochemistry Dep, Benin Univ, Benin City, Email: psouadia@yahoo.com) : Acrosin activity in spermatozoa of infertile nigerian males. Indian J clin Biochem 2006, 21(1), 199-201.

Evaluates acrosin activity in spermatozoa of infertile Nigerian men and to compare with those of the fertile men. The acrosin activity was evaluated using the Acroscreen reagent kit. The acrosin activity of the fertile men was 40.7 ± 5.2 mlU/10⁶ sperm-(range 30.1 - 51.3) and those of the infertile men was 22.4 ± 8.33 mlU/10⁶ sperm (range 5.7 -39.1). The difference in the mean was statistically significant (P<60>0.001). There was a subpopulation of the infertile men who had their acrosin activity within normal range of the fertile men, 32.9 ± 1.57 mlU/10⁶ sperm. But the difference in the mean was statistically significant (P<60>0.001). Acrosin activity decreased with increased morphological changes in the spermatozoa. It is concluded that acrosin activity in the infertile Nigerian men is significantly lower than that in the fertile men. Acrosin activity may also be affected by morphological changes in the spermatozoa.

3 tables, 15 ref

003222   Dorababu M;Joshi M C;Bhawani G;Mohan Kumar M; Chaturvedi A;Goel R K (Pharmacology Dep, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu Univ, Varanasi-221 005, Email: rkgoel_bhu@yahoo.co.in) : Effect of aqueous extract of neem (Azadirachta indica) leaves on offensive and diffensive gastric mucosal factors in rats. Indian J Physiol Pharmac 2006, 50(3), 241-9.

Standardized aqueous extract of Neem (Azadirachta indica) leaves (AIE) has been reported to show both ulcer protective and ulcer healing effects in normal as well as in diabetic rats. To study the mechanism of its ulcer protective/healing actions, effects of AIE (500 mg/ kg) was studied on various parameters of offensive acid-pepsin secretion in 4 hr pylorus ligation, pentagastrin (PENTA, 5 μg/kg/hr)- stimulated acid secretion and gastric mucosal proton pump activity and defensive mucin secretion including life span of gastric mucosal cells in rats. AIE was found to inhibit acid-pepsin secretion in 4 hr pylorus ligated rats. Continuous infusion of PENTA significantly increased the acid secretion after 30 to 180 min or in the total 3 hr acid secretion in rat stomach perfusate while, AIE pretreatment significantly decreased them. AIE inhibited the rat gastric mucosal proton pump activity and the effect was comparable with that of omeprazole (OMZ). Further, AIE did not show any effect on mucin secretion though it enhanced life span of mucosal cells as evidenced by a decrease in cell shedding in the gastric juice. Thus, our present data suggest that the ulcer protective activity of AIE may be due to its anti-secretary and proton pump inhibitory activity rather than on defensive mucin secretion. Further, acute as well as sub acute toxicity studies have indicated no mortality with 2.5 g/kg dose of AIE in mice and no significant alterations in body or tissues weight, food and water intake, haematological profile and various liver and kidney function tests in rats when treated for 28 days with 1 g/kg dose of AIE.

1 illus, 4 tables, 32 ref

003221   Das S K;Vasudevan D M (Biochemistry Dep, Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences, Cochin-682 026, Email: subirkumardas@medical.amrita.edu) : Effect of lecithin in the treatment of ethanol mediated free radical induced hepatotoxicity]. Indian J clin Biochem 2006, 21(1), 62-9.

Effects of this lecithin as a hepatoprotective drug on body weight and antioxidant status of ethanol-exposed rats were studied. The results were compared with the effects of tocopheryl acetate. From the study, it can be concluded that ethanol-induced stress can be partly prevented by tocopheryl acetate, and showed best result. Abstination from alcohol also involved for little hepatic regeneration. Supplementation of lecithin showed better effect compared to abstination from alcohol on reversing the effect of ethanol induced liver damage in the present study. Moreover, preventive measures were found to be better than curative treatment. Antioxidants are likely to provide beneficial effects on hepatocyes via desensitization against oxidant stress while inhibiting primary mechanism for expression of proinflammatory and cytotoxic mediators. However, abstinence from alcohol, proper nutrition, and supplementation of antioxidants, vitamins and hepatoprotective drugs are some of the therapeutic options.

3 illus, 3 tables, 31 ref