001255   Hemashenpagam N;Growther L;Sankar;Selvaraj T; Panneerselvam A (Microbiology Dep, Hindusthan College of Arts and Science College, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, Email: nhema10@yahoo.co.in) : Phytochemical analysis and antimicrobial activity of Solanum xanthocarpum. Biomedicine 2009, 29(4), 353-6.

Since plants possess many medicinal properties, the present study was designed to evaluate the antibacterial activities and phytochemical profile of extracts from leaves of Solanum xanthocarpum. The in vitro antimicrobial activity was performed by agar disc diffusion method against bacteria viz. Staphylococcus aureus, Klebisella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and fungi Aspergillus niger, Penicillium Sp., Candida albicans. The n-butanol, methanol and aqueous extracts of fresh leaves of S.xanthocarpum showed maximum activity against P.aeurginosa, followed by S.aureus and E.coli among the other organisms have been observed. This shows that the plant can be used for medicinal purposes. Solanum xanthocarpum were observed to have antimicrobial activity and can be used for medicinal purposes.

3 tables, 20 ref

001254   Ghosh U K;Prasad Bharat;Gaur A P (Botany Dep, Jay Prakash Univ, Chapra) : Isolation and characterization of some actionomycetes isolated from the Diara land of Saran plain. Indian Sci Cruiser 2009, 23(5), 34-7.

A total of 20 actinomycetes were isolated from soil sample collected form eight different locations in river side (Diara land) of river Saryug (Ghaghra) in Chapra (Saran) of Bihar. There are isolates were assigned to genus Streptomyces, Nocardia, Actinoplane, Micromonospora and Thermoactionmyces on the basis of result based on morphology, spare mass colour, aerial Substrate mycelium and diffusible pigment. Amongst them Streptomyces were perdominant and constitute 40% of total isolates. Maximum numbering isolates were present in the 1-10 cm (Upper layer of soil).

1 table, 11 ref

001253   Ghosh M K;Konwar P;Bandyopadhyay S;Das H K; Sarkar M;Ahmed F A;Bhattacharya M (NO, National Research On Yak (ICAR), Dirang-790 101) : Microminerals and tocopherol profiles during gestation and postpartum in Yak. Indian vet J 2009, 86(3), 265-7.

The study on yaks revealed that serum Cu level was invariably low both in pregnancy and postpartum period. However, serum Zn profile was significantly tow during most of the gestation period than that of postpartum. Serum Fe level was also lowers in pregnancy than the postpartum period. It also revealed that there was significant rise of tocopherol level in pregnant yaks than the postpartum yaks.

1 table, 11 ref

001252   Das M;Singh N A;Ibetombi Devi T;Singh M A; Singh W G (Biochemistry Dep, Regional Institute of Medical Sciences, Imphal-795 004, Email: wg_singh@yahoo.co.in) : Liver enzyme status in children with protein energy malnutrition. Biomedicine 2009, 29(4), 392-6.

Protein Energy Malnutrition (PEM) is associated with many biochemical disturbances in the body. Assay of certain enzyme activities proves very useful in the diagnosis of organ involvement in PEM before clinical manifestations are established. Therefore, the objective of this study is to assess the serum level of amino-transferases (ALT, AST), Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) along with serum protein in PEM cases so as to facilitate early diagnosis and management of PEM. A group of 100 children (<12 yrs) suffering from different grades of PEM along with age and sex matched 30 apparently healthy children taken as controls were included in the present study. Serum ALT and AST were estimated by Photometry based on Kinetic method, as described by IFCC(1980,1976), Alkaline Phosphatase by Optimised standard method as described by Bower GN Jr and Mc Comb RB, 1975 and Serum Albumin by Photometry based on Bromocresol-green method as described by Spencer K and Price, 1977. Results: Out of total 100 cases of PEM, maximum cases (36) were between 1-3 years of age followed by 26 cases in range of 3-6 years of age. Distribution of cases among different grades shows that there were 22 cases of Undernutrition (UN), whereas Kwashiorkor (KW), Nutritional Marasmus (NM) and Marasmic Kwashiorkor (MK) constituted 20 cases, 40 cases and 18 cases respectively. The mean ± SD value of serum ALT (36.32 ± 3.36 IU/L) and AST (39.41 ± 4.59 IU/L) in PEM cases significantly increased when compared with values of control group (p < 0.001). Significant increases of these enzymes were also observed in all grades of PEM, however the values of these enzymes were highest in Undernutrition followed by kwashiorkor, when compared with values of nutritional marasmus and marasmic kwashiorkor. Alkaline phosphatase level showed significant increase in PEM irrespective of grades of PEM when compared to controls. There was a marked reduction in serum albumin level in all grades of PEM compared to control. The study indicates increase ALT, AST and ALP in PEM, which vary according to severity of the disease.

3 illus, 4 tables, 14 ref

001251   Chadha A S;Pal P;Amudharaj D;Pal G K (Physiology Dep, JIPMER, Puducherry-605 006, Email: drppal@rediffmail.com ) : Effect of gender in the assessment of pulmonary functions in prehypertensives and hypertensives subjects. Biomedicine 2009, 29(4), 345-8.

Hypertension and prehypertension states have been found to be associated with metabolic syndrome and altered FEV1 and FVC values. However, the detailed pulmonary function test (PFT) parameters as well as the gender difference have not been studied in hypertensive and prehypertensive subjects. Prehypertensive and hypertensive subjects were recruited from Medicine out patient department of JIPMER based on the blood pressure values recorded from them. PFT parameters were recorded in them with the help of a spirometer and comparison was made between prehypertensive and hypertensive and between male and female prehypertensive subjects. The heights of females were found to be significantly less than males (p <0.01). In female prehypertensive subjects, there was significant decrease in EVC (p<0.05), FEV1 (p<0.0001), FVC (p<0.0001), PEF (p<0.05), FEF 25 (p<0.05), FEF 50 (p <0.05), FEF 25-75 (p<0.05), MW (p<0.0001), and FIF50 (p<0.01) compared to male prehypertensive subjects. No significant change was found between the general and PFT parameters between male hypertensive and pre-hypertensive subjects. Concludes that hypertensive subjects show a greater decrease in PFT values compared to prehypertensive subjects. Also, female prehypertensive subjects are more prone to respiratory dysfunction than male prehypertensive subjects.

4 tables, 13 ref

001250   Beena V G;Saradadevi K L (Microbiology Dep, Medical College Kottayam, Kerala) : Comparative study of surface versus core microflora in diagnosis of recurrent tonsillitis. J Acad clin Microbiol 2009, 11(2), 48-55.

This is a comparative study between throat swab and fine needle aspiration of core (FNA core) of tonsil in the diagnosis of tonsillitis, with core tissue culture taken at the time of tonsillectomy, as gold standard. A total of 126 patients with recurrent tonsillitis and posted for tonsillectomy were selected from July 2004 to October 2005. It was noted that much discrepancy existed between surface tonsillar and core tonsillar microflora. Of the 84 culture positives from core tissue, 83 were got from FNA tonsil core also, but only 48 from throat swab culture. The commonest surface as well as core pathogen was Staphylococcus aureus. The other pathogens included Group A beta hemolytic Streptococci, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pneumococci and Acinetobacter baumanii. FNA core had a high sensitivity (98.81%), specificity (100%) and accuracy (99.21%) when compared to throat swab. The antibiotic sensitivity testing of isolates and the implications of the study are discussed.

3 tables, 13 ref

001249   Abubacker M N;Pushpalatha L;Vivieknandan K (Botany Dep, National College, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu) : Synthesis and antifungal activity of N-bromonicotianmide (NBN). Int J Pl Sci 2009, 4(2), 399-402.

N-Bromonicotinamide (NBN) was synthesized and screened for antifungal activity against Aspergillus restrictus Candida albicans, Cladosporium herbarum, Fusarium oxysporum, Penicillium chrysogenum and Rmzoctonia solani. N-Bromonicotinamide showed total inhibition to all these fungi at 1000 ppm concentration, whereas it showed 75 per cent growth inhibition for A. restrictus, C. herbarum, F. oxysporum, P. chrysogenum and R. solani and 50 per cent growth inhibition for C. albicans at 500 ppm concentration. At lower concentration (250 ppm) of NBN A. restrictus, C. herbarum, F. oxysporum and R. solani showed 50 per cent growth inhibition, whereas in C. albicans with 75 per cent growth inhibition was observed. For P. chrysogenuus, the lower concentration do not show any inhibition. Hence, NBN at 1000 ppm concentration can be utilized as antifungal agent against these fungi.

1 illus, 1 table, 19 ref

000260   Vashist M;Neelkamal;Yadav R;Lal M (NO, , 33/9J, Medical Campus, Rohtak-124 001, Email: mvashist@rediffmail.com) : Trisomy-T (21;21) with mosaicisim in a down syndrome girl child report. Int J Hum Genet 2009, 9(2), 105-7.

Mosaicisim with a derivative of 21 translocation and normal cell line is one of rare cases of Down syndrome patients. In the present case dysmorphic features and developmental delay were compatible with clinical diagnosis of Down syndrome. Cytogenetic analysis demonstrated a mosaic pattern of normal cell line and a cell line with translocation 21;21 [(46,xx/46,xx,T(21 ;21),+21]. Presence of normal cell line as well as translocated 21 indicates the mitotic nondisjunction (NDJ) of an euploid zygote and mosaicism may be due to loss of the supernumerary chromosome of a trisomic zygote or some complex mechanism may be involved in chromosomal aberration. Present case shows the mosaicisim in a girl child with features of Down syndrome and atypical karyotype.

1 illus, 2 tables, 8 ref

000259   Ushasree B;Yasmeen S;Venkateshwari A; Narsimhan C;Jain R K;Nallari P (Genetics Dep, Osmania Univ, Hyderabad-500 007, Email: ushasree_bhotmail.com) : Association of polymorphic antioxidant enzyme with dilated cardiomyopathy. Int J Hum Genet 2009, 9(2), 109-13.

Despite considerable public awareness and technological advances that foster early diagnosis and aggressive therapeutic interventions, heart failure, which results as a final outcome from an underlying cardiovascular disorder remains a critical and an unsolved problem. Among the various cardiomyopathies, Dilated cardiomyopathy with an obscure etiology is known to be the leading cause of heart failure and sudden cardiac death among young adults and children. Studies related to the molecular basis of the condition have implicated oxidative stress pathways, apart from primary disease causing sarcomeric, cytoskeletal and mitochondrial gene mutations in the disease onset. The present study aims to evaluate the role of oxidative stress markers in 97 DCM patients and 105 control individuals to identify specific electromorphic association of superoxide dismutase, catalase and alpha-I-antitrypsin with the disease. Our study has revealed an association of SODA2, catalase HPII and AAT 'M' and 'Z' alleles with DCM, thereby resulting in inefficient scavenging of the free radicals, which may confer decreased protection against oxidative stress induced tissue injury in the disease pathogenesis. The involvement of SOD and AAT in apoptotic pathway and as immunomodulators is also emphasized.

3 tables, 13 ref

000258   Suresh T N;Harendra Kumar M L;Prasad C S B R; Kalyani R;Borappa K (Pathology Dep, Sri Devaraj Urs Medical College, Sri Devaraj Urs Univ, Tamaka, Kolar-563 101, Email: sureshstn@rediffmail.com) : Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor with divergent differentiation. Indian J Path Microbiol 2009, 52(1), 74-6.

A malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor (MPNST) is an uncommon spindle cell sarcoma accounting for approximately 5% of all soft tissue sarcomas. A 55-year-old female with a right suprarenal tumor showed MPNST with additional foci of epithelioid, rhabdomyoblastic, osteogenic and lipogenic differentiation. Although the capacity of MPNST to undergo epithelioid, rhabdomyoblastic, osteogenic and very rarely lipogenic differentiation is reported in literature, the occurrence of all these differentiation in one case has not been described in literature before. To the best of our knowledge, this is only the second MPNST case with lipomatous differentiation.

2 illus, 10 ref

000257   Sumati A H;Saritha N K (Microbiology Dep, J.N. Medical College, Belgaum, Karnataka-590 010, Email: sumatihogade@yahoo.co.in) : Bacterial vaginosis with special reference to anaerobes. Indian J Path Microbiol 2009, 52(1), 56-8.

This study was undertaken to assess the prevalence of bacterial vaginosis (BV) and to estimate the prevalence of anaerobic organisms in vaginal discharge of women suffering from bacterial vaginosis. Patients attending the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department of a Medical College Hospital. A one year cross-sectional study. High vaginal swabs taken from 174 female patients complaining of abnormal vaginal discharge. BV was diagnosed by clinical composite criteria and by gram stain. Anaerobes were isolated and identified from the discharge. Chi square test, with level of significance set at a value of P<0.05. was diagnosed in 68.39% of the cases by using clinical composite criteria and in 58.4% of the cases by gram stain. Anaerobic culture isolation of vaginal swabs revealed that out of 174 cases 143 (82.65%) were culture positive for anaerobes. Bacteroides were significantly raised in BV as compared with non bacterial vaginosis (NBV; <0.05%).Anaerobic bacteria are important pathogens in the causation of bacterial vaginosis along with other aerobic organisms. Bacteroides and peptostreptococci are significantly raised in BV.

2 tables, 13 ref

000256   Solmaz H;IIhan Z;Tasal I;Aksaka A (Microbiology Dep, Faculty of Veterinary, Yuzuncu Yil Univ, Van-650 80) : Evaluation of R mutant Escherichia coli J5 bacterin vaccine against coliform mastitis in cows. Indian vet J 2009, 86(7), 663-4.

This study has shown that vaccination of cows with E. coli J5 bacterin during the dry period and after calving reduced the incidence of naturally occurring clinical coljform mastitis during early lactation.

7 ref

000255   Singh S;Pushpendra Kumar;Bhattacharya T K; Bharat Bhushan;Sharma A (Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Animal Genetics Div, Indian Veterinary Research Institue, Izatnagar, Bareilly-243 122) : PCR-SSCP and nucleotide sequencing of κ-casein gene in buffalo. Indian vet J 2009, 86(6), 592-3.

Polymorphism was identified in the exon 2 region of k-Casein gene of Indian buffalo by PCR - SSCP followed by direct sequencing. This variation should be confirmed in other breeds with larger sample size.

7 ref

000254   Singh A K;Gauri;Chnandra H;Srivastava J; Nautiyal A R;Bhatt R P (Microbiology Dep, Dolphin (P.G.) Institute of Biomedical Science, Manduwala, Dehradun, Uttarakhand) : In vitro antimicrobial activity of Lantana camara (L.) against isolated oral pathogens. J Mount Res 2009, 4(Dec), 114-21.

The study was conducted to investigate antimicrobial activity of Lantana Camara against isolated oral pathogen. Among the 50 sampis collected from patients 26.75% were identified as Staphyloccous spp., 25% as Micrococcus spp.; 23.75% Streptococus spp., 15% Corynebacterium spp and 10% Proteus spp. Maximum antibacterial activity of methanolic extract found against Streptococcus, i.e. 13.2 ±1.12mm followed by Microccus sp, i.e. 13.0+1.22mm, and lowest activity was shown against proteus spp, i.e. 9.58±1.10 mm.

1 illus, 1 table, 30 ref

000253   Sejian V;Srivastava R S;Varshney V P (Neurophysiology Laboratory, Physiology and Climatology Div, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareily-243 122) : Influence of pineal protiens on adrenal cortex controlled minerals in thermally stressed goats. Indian vet J 2009, 86(6), 563-5.

The study was conducted to observe the modulating effects of total precipitated lineal proteins on adrenal cortex to control mineral level in thermal stressed goats. The parameters included in the study were plasma calcium, magnesium, sodium and potassium. Thermal stress significantly reduced plasma calcium while significantly increased plasma magnesium when compared to control. However thermal stress did not affect plasm sodium and potassium. Pineal proteins successfully alleviated heat stressed and metyrapone affected goats with respect to all parameters studied. The results obtained from the experiment suggest a modulating role of pineal proteins on adrenal cortex to control mineral level in thermal stressed goats.

7 ref

000252   Sadki K;Lamsysh H;Rueda B;Lahlou O;Aouad R E; Martin J (Human Genomic Unit, National Institute of Hygiene, 27 Avenue Ibn Batouta, BP769, Agdal, Rabat, Morocco, Email: ksadki1@yahoo.fr ) : CD209 promoter single nucleotide polymorphism -336A/G and the risk of susceptibility to tuberculosis disease in the Moroccan population. Int J Hum Genet 2009, 9(3-4), 235-43.

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Mycobacterium tuberculosis is the causal agent of this infection and its major receptor is CD209 which is expressed on human Dendritic Cells (DC). This interaction could influence bacterial persistence and immunity response. The aim of this study was to evaluate the functional polymorphism -336G/A SNP in TB susceptibility in the Moroccan population. We performed a case-control study within a cohort that included 122 pulmonary TB patients and 151 healthy controls. All subjects were genotyped by TaqMan SNP genotyping assays. No significant difference was observed in allele or genotype frequencies of-336G/A CD209 between TB patients and healthy controls. Further studies are needed to confirm our finding including a large sample size.

2 tables, 26 ref

000251   Raksha Y;Saraswati J;Srinivasa H (Microbiology Dep, St. john's Medical College, Koramangala, Bangalore-34) : Significance of isolation of pneumococci in urine from children. J Acad clin Microbiol 2009, 11(1), 9-11.

Three cases of pneumococci in urine in paediatric age group are discussed here.ln all the three cases, there was no association between urinary symptoms and pneumococcosuria. Hence the presence of S. pneumoniae in urine probably reflects perineal contamination.

3 ref

000250   Rakash Y (Microbiology Dep, St. Johan's Medical College, Koramangala, Bangalore-34) : Methicillin resistant staphylococcus aureus. J Acad clin Microbiol 2009, 11(1), 12-4.

18 ref

000249   Ozcan A;Kaya N;Atakisi O;Karapehlivan M; Atakisi E;Cenesiz S (Biochemistry Dep, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafkas Univ, Kars, Turkey-360 40, Email: aylabicer@hotmail.com) : Effect of kefir on the oxidative stress due to lead in rats. J appl Anim Res 2009, 35(1), 91-3.

Study the effect of kefir given to the rats, which have been developed oxidative stress through administration of lead, 36 rats were divided into 4 groups, the control group, the lead group, lead and kefir group and kefir group. After 6 weeks of treatment, blood levels of the glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA), vitamin E, β-carotene and retinal were determined. The GSH level in the lead group was significantly lower (P<0.05) than that in the control group and the MDA level was higher (p<0.05). On supplementing kefir with or without lead, these levels became similar to control group. Vit E increased by kefir supplementation. Thus kefir may indeed prevent the oxidative damage induced by lead and strengthen antioxidant system.

1 table, 14 ref

000248   Nekooeian J A;Takhshid M A;Mostafizi N; Mehrabani D (Tissue Engineering Dep, Tehran Medical Sciences Univ, Tehran, Iran, Email: mehrabad@sums.ac.ir) : Effect of aqueous extract of Crocus sativus L. (Saffron) stigma on serum levels of gonadotropins and folliculogenesis in adult rats. J appl Anim Res 2009, 35(1), 49-52.

Examines the effects of aqueous extract of Crocus sativus L. (saffron) stigma on serum levels of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), leutinizing hormone (LH), progesterone and estrogen as well as folliculogenesis, 45 adult Wistar rats were equally divided into three groups. Group one received oral normal saline (5 ml/day) as a vehicle and groups two and three the extract of Crocus sativus L. (saffron) stigma at 20 and 80 mg/kg/day, respectively, for 30 d. Administration of 80 mg I kg I day aqueous extract of saffron stigma resulted in higher serum level of FSH, LH, progesterone and estrogen and increased numbers of primary, secondary and tertiary follicles as well as corpora lutea. Thus the aqueous extract of saffron can improve fertility, which may be attributed to crocetin and/or flavonoids contents of the extract.

2 tables, 15 ref

000247   Muralidharan S (NO, JACM, Trivandrum) : Methicillin resistant stphylococcus aureus. J Acad clin Microbiol 2009, 11(1), 15-6.

2 tables, 4 ref

000246   Mohan D R;Antony B;Shivakumar G M (Microbiology Dep, Fr Muller Medical College, Kankanady, Mangalore-575 002, Email: beebafmmc@g.mail.com) : Empyema thoracis due to Actinomyces odontolyticus. Indian J Path Microbiol 2009, 52(1), 120-1.

Actinomyces odontolyticus has been reported as an opportunistic pathogen causing systemic infections. A case of empyema thoracis due to this organism in a 68-year-old male is reported here. The patient did not have any underlying disease or immunosuppression. The organism was isolated from his oral flora also. Eight cases of thoracopulmonary infections due to A. odontolyticus have been reported from the western countries, but none from India.

10 ref

000245   Mishra A K;Rawat M;Verma R (Biological Standardization Div, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar-243 122, Email: mayankrwt@yahoo.com) : Characterization of immunogenic outer membrane proteins from Pasteurella multocida immunoaffinity chromatography. Indian vet J 2009, 86(5), 443-6.

Dominant outer membrane proteins (OMPs) of Pasteurella multocida P₅₂ were purified by immunoaffinity chromatograph (IAC) using Igs obtained from pooled serum from vaccine protected, non-protected, hyperimmune (15th DPC) and unimmunized control animals. It was found that the Igs from protected and HI serum reacted with 3 cell wall proteins. The proteins induced protective response in rabbits, against direct challenge. Igs from pooled serum of vaccinated, non-protected animals, reacted only with 2 polypeptides which did not induce a protective response in rabbits. Based on striking differences in the reactivity of the sera recovered from various groups, a simple test based on IAC can be developed for the purpose of in vitro potency testing of HS vaccines.

1 illus, 7 ref

000244   Laishram J;Maikhuri P K;Rao K S;Saxena K G (School of Environmental Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru Univ, New Delhi-110 067, Email: srkottapalli@yahoo.du.ac.in) : Land use intensification in Indian Himalaya: meaning measurement and implications. Int J Ecol envir Sci 2009, 35(1), 35-52.

Land use intensification is a crucial process influencing biodiversity, ecosystem functions and livelihoods. There are multiple ways of defining and measuring intensification. This article presents a review of the meaning, methods of measurement and ecological implications of land use intensification, with special reference to central Himalayan region of India. It is concluded that (i) land use intensity should be evaluated at different levels: from crop level through agroecosystem/farm level to village landscape level, (ii) homegardens, which constitute a minor land use in terms of spatial extent, are the most intensive land use system in terms of agricultural input rates, output rates and output to input ratios as well as the most rich one in terms of soil organic carbon and nutrient stocks, (iii) a significant improvement in local farm economy and ecosystem functions can be achieved by increasing the rates of locally available inputs, increasing the efficiency of use of inputs for farm production and matching crop/cultivar combinations with the environmental opportunities and constraints and (iv) land use intensification-biodiversity-ecosystem function relationships would depend on the criteria and spatio-temporal scales chosen for measuring explanatory and response variables.

4 illus, 7 tables, 89 ref

000243   Laila Banu N R;James J E (Botany Dep and Research Center, Scott Christian College, Negercoil-629 003, Email: laila_n_banu@yahoo.com,) : Differential response of Lablab purpureus (L.) sweet to water stress in relation to antioxidant enzymes (Catalase and Peroxidase) and proline. Indian J bot Res 2009, 5(3-4), 281-8.

Lablab is generally exposed to water stress at different stages, due to erratic rainfall which decreases growth and yield of plants in many ways. In the present study the control and water stressed plants were evaluated at 5 different stages, each at 15 days interval (i.e. at 15, 30, 45, 60 and 75 days) to assess the antioxidant enzymes (catalase and peroxidase) activity and proline content. Among the experimental plants, stressed plants showed increased activities of peroxidase at second and third stage (30 and 45 days), while catalase activity increased only at fourth stage (60 days). Proline content increased in all stressed plant, and a four fold higher proline level was found in severe water stressed plants (WS₄ - 20%) when compared to control. This study indicated the biochemical adaptability of lablab been to tolerate water stress.

3 tables, 24 ref

000242   Kavita Raja (Microbiology Dep, SCTIMST, Trivandrum) : Hospital acquired infections: a practical experience. J Acad clin Microbiol 2009, 11(1), 17-9.

000241   Karnaker V K;Rai R;Teerthanath S; Krishnaprasad M S (Microbiology and Pathology Dep, K. S. Hegde Medical Academy, Derlakatte, Mangalore) : Case of ocular dirofilariasis camouflaged as a lid tumor. J Acad clin Microbiol 2009, 11(1), 20-2.

Ocular dirofilarial infection in human beings is on the rise in certain parts of Southern India and is considered as an emerging zoonotic infection. Reports a case of subconjunctival dirofilariasis presenting as a conjunctival mass. Based on the morphological and microscopic characters, Dirofilaria repens was identified. The purpose of this article is to review the clinical course, diagnosis and management of a conjunctival dirofilarial lesion.

3 illus, 5 ref

000240   Jain M;Chakravarti A;Verma V;Bhalla P (Microbiology Dep, Maulana Azad Medical College, New Delhi-110 019, Email: anitachakravarti@gmail.com) : Seroprevalence of hepatitis viruses in patients infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Indian J Path Microbiol 2009, 52(1), 16-19.

The co-infection of Hepatitis B and C viruses with HIV accelerates disease progression and also has an effect on the management of patients infected with HIV. The prevalence of HIV co-infection with hepatitis viruses varies widely. This study is planned to evaluate the prevalence of HIV co-infection with Hepatitis B and C viruses in North India. A total of 1178 patients enrolled in the ART center were retrospectively analyzed for the presence of HBV and HCV on the basis of the presence of HBs Ag and anti-HCV markers.ln patients infected with HIV, the prevalence of co-infection with HBV was 9.9% (117/1178), the prevalence of co-infection with HCV was 6.3% (74/1178) and the prevalence of co-infection with both HBV and HCV was -1% (12/1178). The prevalence rate of HBV and HCV are increasing in patients infected with HIV. Having acquired the knowledge about the importance of such a co-infection, it is essential that all the patients infected with HIV be screened for HBV and HCV co-infection.

1 table, 16 ref

000239   Huq F (Discipline of Biomedical Science, School of Medical Sciencesm, Faculty of Medicine, Cumberland Campus,, Lidcombe, NSW, Australia, Email: f.huq@usyd.edu.au) : Molecular modelling analysis of antioxidants used in cancer therapy. Int J pure appl Chem 2009, 4(1-2), 73-82.

Cancer patients often use antioxidants with the aim of enhancing the benefits of treatment, alleviating side effects and/or maintaining or improving general health and well being. However, the use has generated controversy among onclogists some of whom are of the view that antioxidants by their very nature undermine the free radical mechanism of chemotherapy and radition therapy and therefore generally should be avoided during treatment. It is also known that in some situations antioxidants can act as prooxidants. Molecular modelling analyses of the antioxidants resveratrol, daidzein, coumestrol, lycopene, curcumin, gemistein, epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), indole-3-carbinol, sinalbin, sinigrin, folate, quercitrin, sulforaphane, silymarin, vitamin K₁ and glucobrassicin that are known to possess chemopreventive properties, based on molecular mechanics, semi-empirical (PM3) and DFT (at B3LYP/6-31G* level) calculations show that the LUMO-HOMO energy differences for the compounds range from 2.1 to 5.9 eV, indicating that the compounds would vary significantly in their kinetic lability. The molecular surfaces of the compounds except sulforaphane and vitamin K₁ are indeed found to abound in electron-rich regions in conformity with their protective role against oxidative damage of biomolecules such as nucleobases in DNA and cellular proteins and enzymes. The presence of significant electron-deficient regions on the molecular surfaces of sulforaphane and vitamin K₁ and high reactivity of the molecules especially vitamin K₁ may mean that the two compounds may be electrophilic in character so that they may cause damage to DNA and other biomolecules.

14 illus, 1 tables, 25 ref

000238   Gupta V;Saraswathy K N;Khadgawat R;Sachdeva M P (Biochemical and Molecular Anthropology Laboratory, Anthropology Dep, Delhi Univ, Delhi-110 007, Email: udiig@gmail.com) : Genome-wide association: "a revolutionary approach". Int J Hum Genet 2009, 9(2), 97-103.

Genome-Wide Association studies (GWAS) have brought a revolutionary change or paradigm shift in detecting novel variants for complex disorders and shifting the burden of finding the biological relevance of these newly discovered variants on biochemists and physiologists, hence it is a movement from forward to reverse genetics. Here we discuss the role of such studies with GWAS designs from anthropological perspective for conducting futuristic India specific GWAS.

35 ref

000237   Gupta S;Muralidharan S;Asha Aravind;Dias M (Microbiology Dep, St. Johan's College, Bangalore-560 034, Email: dr.murali.2009@gmail.com) : Co-trimoxazole resistant stenotrophomonsa haltophilia infection: a fatal case of nosocomial sepsis in a desseminated T-cell lymphoma patient. J Acad clin Microbiol 2009, 11(1), 30-4.

Stenotrophomonas maltophilia often being disregarded as an environmental contaminant, is an emerging nosocomial pathogen. The recommended drug of choice is Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) for treatment. However strains resistant to TMP-SMX are emerging. Here we describe a fatal case of a nosocomial sepsis due to TMP-SMX resistant S. maltophilia in a disseminated T-Cell Lymphoma patient.

14 ref

000236   Gayatri Devi;Narayanswamy Y V;Preetha R; Shreeja S;Sreenivas Babu P R (Microbiology Dep, M.S.R.M.C., Bangalore-560 054) : Isolation of candida tropicalis from iatrogenic skin abscess: a rare case. J Acad clin Microbiol 2009, 11(1), 23-5.

Subcutaneous abscess due to Candida tropicalis is a rare infection even in immunocompromised patients. Its prevalence is reported when there is a breakdown in the skin that occurs due to bacterial cellulitis or abscess, iatrogenic procedures, trauma and parenteral substance abuse. Here, we describe a case of Candida tropicalis isolated from a skin abscess in a immunocompromised host and treated successfully with Fluconazole.

8 ref

000235   Gandhi G;Gunjan (Human Genetics Dep, Guru Nanak Dev Univ, Amritsar-143 005, Email: gsbau@hotmail.com) : Exercise-induced genetic damage: a review. Int J Hum Genet 2009, 9(2), 69-96.

Physical activity improves the quality of life and well being in healthy persons and has been demonstrated to have beneficial effect on quality of life during and after therapy in cancer patients. Considerable evidence on the other front has shown an association between physical activity and genetic damage and also implied a possible role of physical activity on cancer incidence. Diverse biologic mechanisms have sought to explain the complex relationship between energy balance, physical activity and genetic damage. Primary and secondary reactions have been implicated. These include free radical damage, immune dysfunction, mechanical injury, sex hormones, growth factors, cytokines, etc. Alterations in pro-and anti-apoptotic proteins during long-term physical activity can possibly explain why exercise training relates to inconsistence in cancer causing. Future research is needed in this direction for possible intervention trials. The value of antioxidant supplementation for attenuating post-exercise tissue damage cannot be undermined though more conclusive studies are required for exact recommendations.

2 tables, 123 ref

000234   Fazeli Z;Vallian S (Genetics Div, Biology Dep Faculty of Science, The Isfahan Univ, Isfahan, IR Iran) : Estimation haplotype frequency of Bg/II/Eco RI/VNTR Markers at the PAH Gene Region in Iranian Population. Int J Hum Genet 2009, 9(2), 115-21.

Deficiency in phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH) is the main molecular characteristic of phenylketonuria (PKU). So far over 500 different mutations in the PAH gene have been identified as associated with the disease. Mutation analysis of the PAH gene is a time-consuming and cost-effective procedure. Therefore, molecular markers which are highly linked to the PAH gene, have been used in carrier detection and prenatal diagnosis in PKU families. These markers show a population dependent based haplotype frequency. In the present study, the haplotype frequency of three markers including Bg III, EcoRl and VNTR, at the PAH gene region were investigated in Iranian population. Nine different alleles for VNTR marker with 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 13 eore repeats were detected. Alleles 4 and 13 were found specific to the Iranian population. The haplotype frequency was calculated using FBAT, PHASE and Arlequin (haplotype frequency estimation computer programs). Among the 36 possible estimated haplotypes identified for 2 alleles (+ and -) for Bg/II and EcoR1; and nine alleles for VNTR, ten haplotypes showed relatively high frequency (e" 5%), based on the above programs. Therefore, a combination of Bg/II-Ec0RI-VNTR could be suggested as an informative haplotype in performing carrier and prenatal diagnosis of the PAH gene mutations in Iranian population.

1 illus, 5 tables, 30 ref

000233   El-Sawi N M;Al-Seeni M N (Biochemistry Dep, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz Univ, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia-21551 42805, Email: dr_nelsawi@yahoo.com) : Assessment of flavonoids as rutin for detoxification of T-2 toxin. J appl Anim Res 2009, 35(1), 57-60.

To assess the efficacy of rutin, a flavonoid, for detoxifying T-2 toxin, 30 male albino rats were divided in 3 equal groups. Group 1 served as control. Rats in groups 2 and 3 were given 0.1 mg/kg bw T-2 toxin and those of group 3 were given 50 mg/kg rutin additionally. Toxin in liver tissue increased TBARs, SOD, GST, total lipids and decreased total thiol and catalase. Similarly there was increased lipid peroxide and decrease in total thiol, GST, hemoglobin and hematocrit value. All these were improved in group 3. The result suggest that rutin may be used as anti oxidant for T-2 toxin in liver of rat.

2 illus, 2 tables, 17 ref

000232   Chaudhary U B;Gupta A;Singh M (Nutrition Feed Resources and Products Technology Div, Central Institue of Research of Goats, Farah-281 122) : Fibrolytic enzyme activities of anaerobic fungus isolated from nilgai and Barbari goats. Indian vet J 2009, 86(6), 600-2.

In the communication Orpinomyces species of anaerobic fungi was isolated from the rumen of Barbari goats and from the faeces of Nilgai and was evaluated for its fibrolytic activities in culture supernatant. Results indicated variation in time interval for attaining peak activities of different fibrolytic enzymes but in most of the cases maximum -activities of the corresponding enzymes were reported either at 14 or 21 days of post inoculation. The results indicated that Orpinomyces species of rumen anaerobic fungi originated form rumen of Nilgai have better fibrolytic activity than goats.

1 table, 9 ref

000231   Bozhkov A;Padalko V;Dlubovskaya V;Menzianova N (Research Institute of Biology, V N Karazin Kharkov National Univ, Kharkov-610 77, Ukraine, Email: padalko@univer.kharkov.ua) : Resistance to heavy metal toxicity in organisms under chronic exposure. Indian J expl Biol 2010, 48(7), 679-96.

The rate of changes of heavy metal ions concentrations in the organism or biological system will determine the choice of strategy of realization of heavy metal ions effect and, consequently, the biological effect itself. Which of the possible strategies will dominate, depend on the rate of changes of concentration of heavy metal ions in biological systems, functional activity of organism at the moment of metal action and on metals chemical properties. Keeping this view, the present review deals with the concept of time-based alterations of concentration of heavy metal ions (TACMI) in biological systems. On the basis of TACMI concept formation of organism resistance to metal ions action could be explained. In the event of slow increase of its concentration in organism, it produces induction of metallothioneins, other stress-proteins and relative changes in the whole metabolic system. This, first of all, results in formation of new specific epigenotypes, which provide higher resistance (hormesis effect) not only to metal ions that induced this effect, but also to such stress-factors as high temperature (at least, for micro-algae cells).

8 illus, 112 ref

000230   Bipin Kumar;Ghimire A;Karki S;Upadhyaya P (Pathology Dep, B.P. Koirala Institue of Health Sciences, Dharan, Nepal, Email: bipinkumar31@yahoo.co.in) : Primary laryngeal leishmaniasis. Indian J Path Microbiol 2009, 52(1), 62-4.

Laryngeal leishmaniasis is extremely rare. We report a case of primary laryngeal leishmaniasis in a 70-year-old male who was admitted with complaints of gradual progressive hoarseness of the voice, dyspnea, cough for the past 3 months and noisy breathing for the past 5 days. An X-ray of the soft tissue of the neck showed a prevertebral soft tissue mass causing narrowing of the airway at the 9 C6-C7 vertebral level. A computerized tomography (CT) scan showed a soft tissue mass in the subglottic region causing significant narrowing of the airway. A direct laryngoscopy showed a pinkish-white, friable mass involving the subglottic region and the anterior half of the vocal cords. With the clinical suspicion of malignancy, an endoscopic biopsy was done. A histopathological examination showed diffuse mixed inflammatory cell infiltrate in subepithelium with numerous a Leishmania donovani bodies in the cytoplasm of histiocytes.

3 illus, 10 ref

000229   Binukumar B K;Gill K D (Biochemisty Dep, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh-160 012) : Cellular and molecular mechanisms of dichlorvos neurotoxicity: cholinergic, nonchlolinergic, cell signaling, gene expression and therapeutic aspects. Indian J expl Biol 2010, 48(7), 697-709.

Inappropriate use of toxic chemicals is common in developing countries, where it leads to excessive exposure and high risks of unintentional poisoning. Risks are particularly high with the pesticides used in agriculture, poor rural populations live and work in close proximity to these compounds and often store these compounds in and around their homes. It is estimated that most of the death from pesticide poisoning occur in developing countries. Organophosphate insecticides have been extensively used in agriculture in developing countries. Dichlorvos is a synthetic insecticide and belongs to a family of chemically related organophosphate pesticides (OP). Toxicity of dichlorvos has been documented in accidental human poisoning, epidemiological studies, and animal models. In this review, molecular mechanisms of dichlorvos neurotoxicity have been described. Usage, biotransformation, environmental levels, general population and occupational exposure, effects on cell signaling receptors, mitochondrial metabolism, oxidative stress and gene expression of dichlorvos have been reviewed. Assessment of acute and chronic exposures as well as neurotoxicity risk for lifetime exposures to dichlorvos have also been considered. In addition special emphasis has been given to describe, the role of dichlorvos in the chronic neurotoxicity and its molecular targets that ultimately lead to neurodegeneration.

3 illus, 71 ref

000228   Bhasin M K (NO, , B-2 (GF), South City II, Gurgaon-122 018) : Morphology to molecular anthropology: castes and tribes of India. Int J Hum Genet 2009, 9(3-4), 145-230.

Within the various fields of research of the present Biological Anthropology the study of human evolution as well as the study of genetic variation in modern man, hold an eminent place. An important branch of Biological Anthropology is therefore Population Genetics, which deals on the one hand with exact genetic descriptions of human population, but which on the other hand tries to find out the reasons for genetic differences among them. To study these genetic differentiation processes in man, which are obviously still ongoing, reliable population data are necessary. Biological Anthropologists are, however, not only interested in the ethnic and geographic variation of the numerous genetic markers of the human blood, but are also concerned with the variation of anthropometric, morphological and dermatoglyphic traits. Human population studies using traits began with early population descriptions and currently utilise multivariate procedures for detecting evolutionary processes. The development of new techniques in molecular biology rendered possible to elucidate human variability and human prehistory, it may be concluded that there are differences in the occurrence of the frequencies of various biogenetical traits (genetic markers of blood, other genetic markers like colour blindness and tasting ability, different dermatoglyphic and somatometric traits) among the population groups inhabiting different geographical zones of India viz. North, West, East, Central, South and Islands. From the Himalayan region, some differences in the frequencies and mean values of distribution of various genetic markers and morphological traits have been observed among population groups of Western and Eastern Himalayan-regions. Since sufficient studies are not available on the population groups of Central Himalayan region, it has not been possible to observe a differential trend regarding the occurrence of various traits, but it has been observed that the population groups in this area show more similarities with those of Western than Eastern Himalayan region. About the four groups i.e., caste, scheduled caste, scheduled tribe, and community from India, various zones of India and Himalayan regions, conspicuous differences are observed among the scheduled tribes as compared to castes, scheduled castes, and communities. The correlations of frequencies of genetic markers and mean values of morphological traits with various climatic factors and altitude by different ethnic groups although showing significant differences, in general are not high. Nevertheless, it can be concluded that the variations in the frequencies of genetic markers and mean values of morphological traits distribution in the Himalayan region may be due to contacts between the various population groups of Western and Central Himalayas with population groups of Central Asia, and that of Eastern Himalayas with the Northern Mongoloid populations. In Central India admixture with the population groups of West India can be assumed. In South India, a different pattern of allele haplotype frequencies and mean values is generally observed among the tribal population groups, for which one of the main causes might be seen in small population sizes. Inbreeding is prevalence among certain communities like Muslims, Parsis etc. and in most of the different population groups particularly from South India, which might have also resulted in the marked variation in distribution of frequencies and mean values of different genetic markers and morphological traits. The variations observed for the various morphogenetic traits in the distribution of allele/haplotype frequencies and mean values among the Indian population are due to racial elements present among them in varying degrees, migrations and admixture from time to time and other factors of evolutionary changes like mating patterns, genetic drift, mutation and selection under different environments. However, such a holistic approach should not only consider the anthropometric, dermatoglyphic traits and so far less investigated serum protein and red cell enzyme polymorphisms, but should analyse especially the regional and ethnic distribution of the numerous nuclear and mitochondrial DNA polymorphisms, which turned out to be of highest importance to population genetics.

23 illus, 5 tables, 297 ref

000227   Balamurugan S;Rajasekar B;Rao R R (NO, , 3D, K.G. Traditions, No. 1, North Gopalapuram First Street, Chennai, Tamil Nadu-600 086, Email: ambikayal@yahoo.co.in) : Anaplastic large-cell lymphoma with florid granulomatous reaction: a case report and review of literature. Indian J Path Microbiol 2009, 52(1), 69-70.

Granulomatous reactions have been reported in association with lymphomas, more often with Hodgkins disease than with Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma. Not many reports are available on the association of anaplastic large-cell lymphoma with sarcoid-type granuloma. Herein, we report a case of an elderly female with generalized lymphadenopathy who had a florid granulomatous reaction almost masking the lymphoma cells in the lymph node biopsy. A detailed clinical history, careful histological examination and immunohistochemistry helped in attaining the correct diagnosis.

3 illus, 4 ref

000226   Badaruddoza;Bhanwer A J S;Sawhney R;Randhawa N K;Matharoo K;Barna B (Human Genetics Dep, Guru Nanak Dev Univ, Amritsar-143 005, Email: doza13@yahoo.co.in) : Angiotensin converting enzyme ACE gene polymorphism in essential hypertension among a busiess community in Punjab. Int J Hum Genet 2009, 9(3-4), 231-4.

The study was carried out to investigate the association of the angiotensin -converting enzyme deletion/insertion polymorphism with hypertension and its role in increasing the susceptibility to hypertension among Bania population in Punjab. The study blood samples consisted of 50 normal (28 males and 22 females) healthy individuals and 50 hypertensive, age and sex matched (28 males and 22 females) individuals. The genotype frequencies were found to be 0.22, 0.32 and 0.46 for II, DD, ID genotype in hypertensives. The same has been found for normotensives to be 0.26, 0.18 and 0.56 for II, DD and ID respectively. The observed overall genotype distributions were consistent with Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. The present analysis suggested that the genetic variation at the ACE gene may be associated with some determinants for blood pressure.

3 tables, 20 ref

000225   Babu Haris;Nagaraj S;Macaden R (Microbiology Dep, St. John's Medical College, Koramangala, Bangalore-34) : Changig pattern in the aetiology and antibiogram of enteric fever group of salmonellae in Bangalore, India. J Acad clin Microbiol 2009, 11(1), 4-8.

Salmonella enterica serovars Typhi and Paratyphi A (S. Typhi and S. Paratyphi A) isolates are showing increasing susceptibility to Chloramphenicol and decreasing susceptibility to Ciprofloxacin. This study involved fifty isolates of Salmonella obtained from blood cultures in a tertiary care hospital. By using standard procedures, the isolates were identified as S. Typhi and S. Paratyphi A. Antibiotic susceptibility tests and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) by both agar-plate and micro-broth dilution was performed. Of the 24 S. Typhi isolates, Chloramphenicol resistance was seen in one (4%) which was also resistant to Ampicillin and Co-trimoxazole. Of the 26 S. Paratyphi A isolates, Chloramphenicol resistance was seen in three (11.5%). 23 (95.8%) S. Typhi isolates and 23 (88.4%) S. Paratyphi A isolates were resistant to Nalidixic acid, and these had higher MICs with a range of 0.25-2 μg/ml to Ciprofloxacin. This study reveals the changing pattern of antibiogram for Salmonella species and also the usefulness of Nalidixic acid susceptibility as a screening test to determine decreasing susceptibility to Ciprofloxacin.

2 illus, 1 table, 9 ref

000224   Antony B;Thomas S;Chandrashekar S C;Sudeep Kumar M;Veena Kumar (Microbiology Dep, Fr. Muller Medical College, Kankanady, Mangalore-575 002, Email: beenafmmc@g.mail.com) : Osteomyelitis of the mandible due to aggregatibacter (Actinobacillus) actinomycetemcomitans. Indian J Path Microbiol 2009, 52(1), 115-6.

Aggregatibacter (Actinobacillus) actinomycetemcomitans is a capnoic gram negative coccobacilli known to produce juvenile periodontitis. This organism was isolated in pure culture from an unusual case of osteomyelitis of the mandible. The patient was treated with tetracycline, which is the drug of choice for A. actinomycetemcomitans and the clinical response improved. From our limited review of the literature, it appears that this is the first case of osteomyelitis due to A.actinomycetemcomitans reported in India.

1 illus, 10 ref

000223   Akhtar K;Zaheer S;Ahmad S S;Hassan M J (NO, , H. No. 4/1129, Sirsyed Nagar, Aligarh-202 002, Email: sufianzaheer@gmail.com) : Primary neuroendocrine carcinoma of the breast. Indian J Path Microbiol 2009, 52(1), 71-3.

Primary neuroendocrine carcinoma of the breast is rare-only about 30 cases have been reported in literature. Immunohistochemical examination showing expression of chromogranin and/or synaptophysin confirms evidence of neuroendocrine differentiation. Usually foci of neuroendocrine differentiation can be seen in breast carcinoma and are reported to be present in about 2-5% of breast cancer cases. Reports a case of breast carcinoma in which most of the areas studied on the tissue section showed neuroendocrine differentiation.

4 illlus, 6 ref

000222   Agarwal C;Jain M (NO, , A-86, Sector 27, Noida, Uttar Pradesh-201 301, Email: avnishgupta@yahoo.com) : Utility of fibronectin in immuocytochemical differentiation of reactive mesothelial cells from metastatic malignant cells in serous effusions. Indian J Path Microbiol 2009, 52(1), 25-8.

Cytological evaluation of serous effusions often poses difficulties to the pathologists. This study was designed to assess the utility of fibronectin as a mesothelial cell marker and evaluate its use along with carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) as a short panel to aid in the differentiation of reactive mesothelial cells from metastatic adenocarcinoma cells in serous effusions. Forty serous effusion cases from clinically benign cases and forty from clinically malignant cases with a known primary were included in the study. After routine cytological evaluation, the cases were categorized as benign, suspicious and malignant. All the cases were studied for fibronectin and CEA immunostaining using APAAP technique. In the study, fibronectin emerged as a 100% specific and 93.4% sensitive marker for mesothelial cells. CEA immunostaining was seen in 80% cases of metastatic adenocarcinoma in serous effusions. Mesothelial cells did not show any CEA positivity. Short panel of CEA and fibronectin aided in reaching a correct diagnosis in three out of five cytologically suspicious cases.

2 illus, 1 table, 16 ref

000221   Ademuyiwa A O;Sowande O A;Adejuyigbe O;Usang U E;Bakare T I B;Anyanwu L J C (Pediatric Surgery Unit, Surgery Dep, College of Medicine, Lagos Univ, Ldi Araba, Lagos. Nigeria) : Evaluation of cosmetic appearance of herniotomy wound scars in African children: comparison of tissue glue and subcuticular suturing. Indian J Plast Surg 2009, 42(2), 199-203.

Evaluates the cosmetic appearance of herniotomy wound scars closed using either the tissue glue or subcuticular suturing technique.Prospective randomised control study; randomisation into tissue glue and suturing groups. Ethical clearance obtained. Cosmetic outcome were based on visual analogue scale by parents and Hollander wound evaluation scale by a Plastic Surgeon blinded to the wound closure method.Fifty one wounds were evaluated, 26 in the tissue glue group and 25 in the suturing group. Parents' evaluation using Visual Analogue scale (VAS) showed that in the suturing group, 17 parents (68%) gave a VAS of 8cm while six parents (24%) gave a score of 7cm. Two parents (8%) gave a score of 9cm. In the tissue glue group, 22 parents (84.6%) scored the scar of their children as 8 or 9cm on the VAS while four parents (15.4%) gave a score of 7cm. The median VAS was 8cm for both groups with a range of 7 to 9cm. The Chi- square test showed that the parents preferred tissue glue compared/with subcuticular suturing (X2 = 7.90, P< 0.05). The Hollander Wound Evaluation Scale (HWES) used by Plastic Surgeon showed 21 herniotomy wounds (84%) had a score of 6 in the suturing group while four wounds (16%) had a score of 5. In the tissue glue group, 19 wounds (73%) had a score of 6, six wounds (23.1%) had a score of 5 and a patient (3.8%) had a score of 4. The median score is 6 for both groups. There was no statistically significant difference between botrsgroups (X^{2 = 1.481, P = 0.393). This study has shown that the cosmetic outcome of wound closure using the tissue glue technique and subcuticular suturing technique are similar.}

2 illus, 3 tables, 11 ref

020152   Zein R;Suhaili R;Mawardi;Munaf E;Bavestrello G (Chemistry Dep, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Andalas Univ, Padang 25163, Indonesia, Email: emunaf@fnuoa.unand.ac.id) : Chemical modification of some functional groups on marine algae (Sargassum crasifolium) powder for the evaluation of lead(II) uptake. Asian J Chem 2009, 21(3), 2032-6.

The functional group on marine algae (Sargassum crasifolium) has been modified using NaOH, formaldehyde and citric acid as a modifier. The modified of algae is used for the Pb(II) uptake. The experimental results showed that the modification of functional group on algae Sargassum crasifolium using NaOH much better than formaldehyde and citric acid, with the sorption capacity 1.25 mg Pb/g algae followed by 0.83 and 0.69 mg Pb/g algae powder for formaldehyde and citric acid modification, respectively.

3 illus, 13 ref

020151   Yesudian P P;Singh D P (NO, Internatiojnal Instn of Population Science, Mumbai) : Working elders in India : a gender specific situation analysis. Indian J Gerontol 2009, 23(1), 42-57.

India is aging at a rapid pace. The elder's (60+) work participation rate is decreasing over the years according to various rounds of census. In economic activity elderly men 's participation is declining whereas the elderly women 's participation is increasing both in rural and urban areas. Looking back at the low literacy level almost 50 years ago in India, one wonders what kind of occupation these women might be involved in. Periodical National Sample Surveys (NSSO) provide an ample opportunity to analyse elderly population's work participation and why, how these elder s are working. This paper is an attempt to explore the elderly person s work participation over the decades and also explores the background characteristics of these elderly workers. It also finds some determinants which contribute to gender-specific work participation at this age.

8 tables, 12 ref

020150   Yayintas O T;Yapici B M (Biology Dep, Faculty of Science & Arts, Basic and Industrial Microbiology Section Canakkale Onsekiz Mart Univ, 17100 Canakkale, Turkey, Email: byapici@comu.edu.tr) : In vitro antimicrobial activity of Brachythecium campestre and Eurhynchium pulchellum extracts. Asian J Chem 2009, 21(3), 2193-7.

The purpose of this research was to examine the in vitro antimicrobial activity of ethanol extracts of Brachythecium campestre (E₁) and Eurhynchium pulchellum (E₂). The antimicrobial activity of the E₁ and E₂ was evaluated according to the disc diffusion method against 10 test bacteria, including 4 Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Staphylococcus epidermidis ATCC 122228, Streptococcus faecalis NRRLB-14617, Bacillus cereus ATCC 11778), 6 Gram-negative bacteria (Salmonella typhi CCM 5445, Proteus vulgaris ATTC 68, Enterobacter aerogenes ATCC 13043, Pseudomonas aureginosa ATTC 27853, Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, Neisseria canis) and 9 test yeasts (Saccharomyces cerevisiae ATCC 9763, Saccharomyces Colombia, Saccharomyces uvarum, Schizosaccharomyces pombe, Kluyveromyces marxianus, Debarymyces hansenii, Candida lypolitica, Geotricum candidum and Rhodotorula rubra DSM 70403). Present results showed that the extracts possessed antibacterial and antiyeast effect against the majority of the bacteria and all of the yeasts tested.

1 table, 12 ref