024282   Jemima S A;Verghese S (Microbilogy Dep, International Center for Cardio Thoracic and Vascular Diseases, A Unit of Frontier Lifeline, Chennai-600 101, Email: iemi@yahoo.com.in) : SHV-28, an extended-spectrum beta-lactamase produced by a clinical isolate of Klebsiella pneumoniae in South Inida. Indian J med Microbiol 2009, 27(1), 51-4.

SHV-28, an extended spectrum β-lactamase from a clinical isolate of Klebsiella pneumoniae, had an isoelectric point of 7.6 and a substrate profile showing preferential hydrolysis for cefotaxime over ceftazidime. It differed from SHV-1 by one amino acid substitution. The conserved S-T-F-K and K-T-G motifs were identified by SHV-28 protein sequencing.

1 illus, 13 ref

024281   Jayanth S T;Kirupakaran J;Brahmadathan K N; Gnanaraj L;Kang G (Hospital Infection Control Commitee, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Tamil Nadu-632 004, Email: gkang@cmcvellore.ac.in) : Needle stick injuries in a tertiary care hospital. Indian J med Microbiol 2009, 27(1), 44-7.

Accidental needle stick injuries (NSIs) are an occupational hazard for healthcare workers (HCWs). A recent increase in NSIs in a tertiary care hospital lead to a 1-year review of the pattern of injuries, with a view to determine risk factors for injury and potential interventions for prevention. We reviewed 1-year (July 2006-June 2007) of ongoing surveillance of NSIs. The 296 HCWs reporting NSIs were 84 (28.4%) nurses, 27 (9.1%) nursing interns, 45 (21.6%) cleaning staff, 64 (21.6%) doctors, 47 (15.9%) medical interns and 24 (8.1%) technicians. Among the staff who had NSIs, 147 (49.7%) had a work experience of less than 1 year (P< 0.001). The devices responsibk for NSIs were mainly hollow bore needles (n = 230, 77.7%). In 73 (24.6%) of the NSIs, the patient source was unknown. Recapping of needles caused 25 (8.5%) and other improper disposal of the sharps resulted in 55 (18.6%) of the NSIs. Immediate post-exposure prophylaxis for HCWs who reported injuries was provided. Subsequent 6-month follow-up for human immunodeficiency virus showed zero seroconversion. Improved education, prevention and reporting strategies and emphasis on appropriate disposal are needed to increase occupational safety for HCWs.

2 illus, 2 table, 7 ref

024280   Iyer Y S;Vasantha K;Pujari V;Jadhav S;Ghosh K (NO, National Institute of Immunohaematology (ICMR), 13th floor, New Multistoreyed Building, KEM Hospital Campus, Parel, Mumbai-400 012, Email: yegneswar2003@yahoo.com) : Murine monoclonal anti-H as typing reagent. Indian J med Res 2009, 129(1), 72-4.

Antigen H present on the surface of red cells in varying concentration, is maximum in O group red cells, but absent in Bombay phenotype individuals. This differentiation is generally detected by seed extracts of Ulex europaeus. The titre of such an extract is usually low and is subjected to batch variation. Hence, we carried out this study to raise potent murine monoclonal antibody against H antigen. Spleen cells of female BALB/c mice immunized with O group red cells were fused in presence of polyethylene glycol (PEG) 1500 with a mouse myeloma cell line Sp2/0 Agl4 in hypoxanthine aminopterine thymidine (HAT) selective medium and incubated at 37°C, 5 per cent C₂ and 95 per cent humidity for a week. The culture supernatants showing anti-H activity, were further subcloned and two clones 3E8A10 and 3E8A1T generated which showed a good potency, avidity and specificity. The anti-H clones thus produced indigenously provided a potent reagent in distinguishing normal O group from Bombay phenotype individuals. The unlimited availability makes this reagent cost-effective to ensure a constant supply of hybrid clones with the similar specificities.

1 table, 11 ref

024279   Indhumathi E;Chandrasekaran V;Jagadeswaran D; Varadarajan M;Abraham G;Soundararajan P (Nephrology Dep, (EL, VC, DJ, GA, PS), Microbiology Porur, Chennai-600 116, Email: drindhusrmc@yahoo.com) : Risk factors and outcome of fungal peritonitis in continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis patients. Indian J med Microbiol 2009, 27(1), 59-61.

To determine the risk factors and outcome of fungal peritonitis in continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) patients over a 7-year prrind This retrospective study was conducted on 30 cases of fungal peritonitis in CAPD patients during a 7-year period (2000-2007). The diagnosis was based on elevated CAPD effluent count and isolation of fungi. Patients were evaluated for previous episode of bacterial peritonitis. The incidence of fungal peritonitis was 16.2%. Age varied between 8 and 75 years, with a mean age of 57 years. Twenty-three were males (76.7%) and seven were females (23.3%). Seventeen patients (56.6%) had previous episodes of bacterial peritonitis that was treated with multiple antibiotics. The common fungus was Candida species (50%). CAPD catheter removal and initiation of antifungal therapy was done for all patients. Reinsertion was done for three (10%) patients. Mortality rate was 20%. Patients with previous bacterial peritonitis and antibiotic usage are at greater risk of developing fungal peritonitis.

3 tables, 12 ref

024278   Hallenbeck P C;Ghosh D;Skonieczny M T;Yargeau V (Microbiologie et Immunologie Dep, Universite de Montreal, CP 6128 Succursale Centre-ville, Montreal, Quebec-H3C 3J7, Canada, Email: Patrick.hallenbeck@umontrea.ca) : Microbiological and engineering aspects of biohydrogen production. Indian J Microbiol 2009, 49(1), 48-59.

Dramatically rising oil prices and increasing awareness of the dire environmental consequences of fossil fuel use, including startling effects of climate change, are refocusing attention worldwide on the search for alternative fuels. Hydrogen is poised to become an important future energy carrier. Renewable hydrogen production is pivotal in making it a truly sustainable replacement for fossil fuels, and for realizing its full potential in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. One attractive option is to produce hydrogen through microbial fermentation. This process would use readily available wastes as well as presently unutilized bioresources, including enormous supplies of agricultural and forestry wastes. These potential energy sources are currently not well exploited, and in addition, pose environmental problems. However, fuels are relatively low value products, placing severe constraints on any production process. Therefore, means must be sought to maximize yields and rates of hydrogen production while at the same time minimizing energy and capital inputs to the bioprocess. Here we review the various attributes of the characterized hydrogen producing bacteria as well as the preparation and properties of mixed microflora that have been shown to convert various substrates to hydrogen. Factors affecting yields and rates are highlighted and some avenues for increasing these parameters are explored. On the engineering side, we review the potential waste pre-treatment technologies and discuss the relevant bioprocess parameters, possible reactor configurations, including emerging technologies, and how engineering design-directed research might provide insight into the exploitation of the significant energy potential of biomass resources.

^iia5 illus, 97 ref

024277   Haboubi G J;Shaikh R B (Community Medicine Dep, Gulf Medical College, Ajman, UAE, Email: riz_bsk@hotmail.com) : Comparison of the nutritional status of adolescents from selected school of south India and UAE: a cross-sectional study. Indian J community Med 2009, 34(2), 108-11.

To assess the nutritional status of adolescents of Indian origin living in India and the United Arab Emirates to see how variable the prevalence is of stunting and wasting among adolescents of the same ethnic background living in different socio-economic and demographic environments. A cross-sectional survey. Schools in South India and the United Arab Emirates. Participants: A total of 2459 adolescent boys and girls between the ages of 10 and 16 years old. Anthropometric measurements from 2459 adolescents between the ages of 10-16 years old, 1200 from India and 1259 from UAE, were collected. The subjects were divided into six age groups with 1 -year intervals. Adolescents falling below the age and gender-specific 5th percentile and 3nd percentile of the WHO recommended standards were defined as having thinness and stunting accordingly. Regardless of gender, the rate of stunting was higher in Indian adolescents from India (25.5-51%) when compared with Indian adolescents in UAE (3.1-21%). Thinness was also more in those in India (42-75.4%). When compared with adolescents living in the UAE (4.5-14.4%). The study was done in two groups having a common ethnicity but living in different socio-economic environments. With the results of this study, we can say that improved economic conditions favor better expression of genetic potential for physical growth.

5 tables, 17 ref

024276   Gupta A K;Rangrez A Y;Verma P;Chatterji A; Shouche Y S (Moleculr Biology Unit, National Science Centre for Cell Science, Pune-411 007) : Phylogenetic profiling of bacterial community from two intimately located sites in Balramgari, North-East coast of India. Indian J Microbiol 2009, 49(2), 169-87.

Microbial communities in coastal subsurface sediments play an important role in biogeochemical cycles. In the study microbial communities in tidal subsurface sediments of Balramgari in the state of Orissa, India were investigated using a culture independent approach. Two 16S rDNA cloned libraries were prepared from the closely located (100 m along the coast) subsurface sediment samples. Library I sediment samples had higher organic carbon content but lower sand percentage in comparison to Library II. A total of 310 clone sequences were used for DOTUR analysis which revealed 51 unique phylotypes or operational taxonomic units (OTUs) for both libraries. The OTUs were affiliated with 13 major lineages of domain bacteria including Proteobacteria (α, β, δ and λ), Acidobacteria, Actinobacteria, Cyanobacteria, Chloroflexi, Firmicutes, Verrucomicrobia, Bacteroidetes, Gemmatimonadetes and TM7. Authors encountered few pathogenic bacteria such as Aeromonas hydrophila and Ochrobactrum intermedium, in sediment from Library I. ∫-LIBSHUFF comparison depicts that the two libraries were significantly different communities. Most of the OTUs from both libraries possessed ≥85% to <97% similarity to RDP database sequences depicting the putative presence of new species, genera and phylum. The work revealed the complex and unique bacterial diversity from coastal habitat of Balramgari and shows that, in coastal habitat a variability of physical and chemical parameter has a prominent impact on the microbial community structure.

5 illus, 4 tables, 54 ref

024275   Goyal A;Prasad A;Ghoshal U;Prasad K N (Microbiology Dep, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Raibareli Road, Lucknow-226 014, Email: knprasad@sgpgi.ac.in) : Comparison of disk diffusion, disk potentiation and double disk synergy methdos for detection of extended spectrum beta lactamases in Enterobacteriaceae. Indian J med Res 2008, 128(2), 209-11.

14 ref

024274   Godse K V (NO, Shri Skin Centre, 22-L Market, Sector 8, Nerul, Navi Mumbai-400 706, Email: drgodse@yahoo.co.in) : Urticaria and masturbation. Indian J Derm Vener Lepr 2009, 75(5), 516-17.

^ssc9 ref

024273   Ginwal H S;Mittal N (Genetics and Tree Propagation Div, Forest Research Institute, Kaulagarh Road, Dehradun-248 195, Email: ginwalhs@icfre.org) : Efficient genomic DNA isolation protocol for RAPD and SSR analysis in Acorus calamus L. Indian J Biotechnol 2010, 9(2), 213-16.

Molecular based genetic analysis requires good quality of DNA in sufficient quantity to generate robust DNA fingerprints. The leaves of sweet flag (Acorus calamus L.) contain high amounts of polyphenolic compounds and polysaccharides, which interfere in the amplification reactions. Four genomic DNA extraction methods were tested for yield, quality and suitability of genomic DNA for RAPD (random amplified polymorphic DNA) and SSR (simple sequence repeat) marker analysis in sweet flag. Fresh young leaves were subjected to the already available protocols and a procedure was devised after modification in the protocol of Stange et al for the isolation of total genomic DNA. The modified method employs high concentrations of polyvinyl pyrrolidone, addition of lithium chloride solution as well as additional washing step of DNA pellets. The yield was found approximately 200-500 μg DNA per 100 mg of plant material and the purity ratio was found 1.7-2.0. Usage of highly concentrated PVP extraction buffer and chloroform:isoamylalcohol repetition step was found useful to overcome problems from polyphenolic compounds and polysaccharides. The extracted DNA through this method was found suitable for RAPD and SSR analysis.

^ssc1 illus, 2 tables, 19 ref

024272   Gayathri Devi S;Archanah A;Abiramasundari P; Priya P;Uma K;Abirami T (Biochemistry Dep, Biotechnology and Bioninformatics, Avinashilingam Univ for Women, Coimbatore-641 043) : Comparative evaluation of the antioxidant status and in vitro free radical scavenging activities of leaves and roots of Achyranthes aspera. Indian J Nutr Diet 2009, 46(12), 485-90.

The results of the study reveals that both the leaves and roots ot Achyranthes asperahad appreciable quantities of enzymic and non-enzymic antioxidants. The results for in vitro free radical scavenging activity of Achyranthes aspera were also appreciable. In short, leaves and roots of Achyranthes aspera possess an excellent free radical scavenging activity and the leaves and roots of Achyranthes aspera appears to be good and safe source of antioxidants.

3 table, 15 ref

024271   Elbaradie S M Y;Mahmoud M;Farid M (Obstetrics and Gynecology Dep, Alfayom Univ, Egypt, Email: baradie@yahoo.com) : Maternal and neonatal screening for group B streptococci by SCPB gene based PCR: a preliminary study. Indian J med Microbiol 2009, 27(1), 17-21.

To detect the magnitude of group B streptococcal (GBS) colonization and disease among a sample of pregnant women and their infants in Egypt.Prospective observational study. Participants: The study included 95 pregnant females, 35-37 weeks of gestational age, attending the antenatal outpatient clinic at AlFayom University Hospital between September 2006 and June 2007. All participants were screened with vaginorectal swabs by a conventional GBS PCR assay. Participants were grouped into group A (GBS present, 17 patients) and group B (GBS absent, 78 patients). Details with regard to labor and delivery were recorded and placental pathology was examined to detect histological chorioamnionitis. Ninety-five infant data were also recorded. All neonates of group A (17 out of 95 with known positive maternal GBS) underwent collection of simultaneous specimens from surface sites for PCR before their first bath and within four hours of birth. GBS carriage rate in the study sample was 17.89%. Chorioamnionitis confirmed in three patients by placental pathology (one was in group A and two in group B) was statistically not significant. Twenty-two women had rupture of membranes (<12 hours) before delivery (four from group A and 18 from group B) that was not statistically significant. There were three infants out of 17 in group A who had GBS colonized at one or more sites by PCR which was statistically significant. However, only one infant was admitted to neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) that was not statistically significant. Maternal GBS carriage is associated with a significant increase in neonatal infection rate but is not associated with an increase in neonatal intensive care admission. An accurate evaluation of colonization rate (using a larger sample) is desired to evaluate neonatal invasive disease and determine the cost effectiveness of PCR to select an appropriate preventive strategy in Egypt.

2 tables, 20 ref

024270   Elangbam V;Singh A B;Shantibala Devi K; Usharani Devi (Community Medicine Dep, Regional Institute of Medical Sciences, Imphal, Manipur-795 004, Email: ngaksingh@yahoo.com) : Suicidal acts reported at a teaching hospital in Manipur. Indian J community Med 2009, 34(4), 357-8.

1 table, 5 ref

024269   Ebrahim R S;Panicker S;Clarson D (Biochemistry Dep, School of Medical Education, Mahatma Gandhi Univ, Gandhigram, Kottayam, Kerala, Email: raziasafeer@gmail.com) : Effect of Frankia and Azotobacter on the nutrient uptake by Casuarina plants. Indian J multidiscipl Res 2009, 5(4), 475-8.

Nitrogen and phosphorus uptake studies were conducted in two species of Casuarinas,Casuarina equisetifolia and Casuarina junghuhniana. Inoculation with root nodule actinomycete Frankia alone, significantly increased the nitrogen uptake in Casuarina equisetifolia and phosphorus uptake in Casuarina junghuhniana when comoaved to dual inoculated treatments.

1 table, 11 ref

024268   Dharani Priya B;Lakshmi N;Veerraju P (Human Genetics Dep, Andhra Univ, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, Email: bdpriya@yahoo.co.in) : Genetic markers among Kamma caste population of Visakhapatnam district, Andhra Pradesh. Indian J multidiscipl Res 2009, 5(4), 503-6.

Reports the frequency distribution of ABO and Rh blood groups, Colorblindness, Hemoglobin and Glucose 6 phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) variants among the Kamma caste population of Visakhapatnam district of Andhra Pradesh, Venous blood samples were collected from 102 individuals and tests were carried out in Human Genetics Department of Andhra University. The frequencies of the above markers were compared with earlier studies on same population.

4 tables, 13 ref

024267   Das S;Bandyopadhyay M K (NO, National Bureau of Soil Survey and Land Use Planning, Block-D K, Sector-II, Bidhan Nagar, Kolkata-700 091) : Forest diversity in eastern Himalaya warm perhumid agroecological region-a case study in upper Rangit basin, Sikkim. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2006, 29(2), 77-84.

Upper Rangit basin lying between 27°07^{1 to 27°371N and 88°011 to 88°251 E with an area of 1.35,828 ha belongs to eastern Himalayan mountainous region. The area is endowed with luxuriant vegetation. Forest covers a total area of 76,937 ha representing 56.64 percent of basin area. Based on altitudinal and climatic variation five types of forest viz. tropical moist deciduous and semi-evergreen forest, subtropical broad-leaf forest, temperate forest, cold temperate/subalpine forest and alpine forest have been identified which cover 3.78 percent, 9.71 percent, 29.79 percent, 48.78 percent and 7.94 percent of forest area respectively. Shorea robusta and Schima wallichi are dominant species of tropical moist deciduous and evergreen forest and cover 913.35 ha and 359.36 ha respectively. They contribute 38.92 prcent and 10.54 percent of total stem of tropical forest respectively. Subtropical forest is represented dominantly by Alnus nepalansis and Schima wallichi. Total timber volume of this zone is recorded as 4597.66 thousand m3. Symplocox theifolia is the most dominant species in temperate forest spreading over 4501.99 ha. Temperate forest zone produces timber volume of 21549.46 thousand m3. Cold temperate forests are presented by Rhododendron sp. and Tsuga dumosa covering 11.57 percent and 7.85 percent area of this zone. Rhododendron, Berberis and Sails are some of the species of alpine type vegetation. These forests are mostly virgin due to no human interferences.}

2 illus, 6 tables, 9 ref

024266   Das R;Paddaiah G;Sarker B N;Rao V R;Ramesh M (Human Genetics Dep, Andhra Univ, Vishakhapatnam-530 003) : Presence of hemoglobin E in Khynriem Khasi of Meghalaya, India. Indian J multidiscipl Res 2009, 5(3), 337-40.

The distribution of abnormal hemoglobin (HB E) have been studied in an endogamous ethnic group (Khynriem Khasi) of East Khasi Hills, Meghalaya. The frequency of the allele is 0.0250. The results were also compared with those of other populations of the state.

2 tables, 7 ref

024265   Chakravarti A;Kashyap B;Matlani M (Microbiology Dep, of Maulana Azad medeical College, New Delhi, Email: dr_bineetakashyap@yahoo.in>) : Cytomegalovirus infection: an Indian perspective. Indian J med Microbiol 2009, 27(1), 3-11.

Human cytomegalovirus (CMV) poses an important public health problem as it may cause serious morbidity and mortality in congenitally infected newborns and immunocompromised patients, most notably transplant recipients and HIV-infected persons. It is probably one of the most common infections known to humans and is characterized by a self-limiting infection in healthy individuals. CMV infection is the single most frequent cause of infectious complications in the early period following kidney transplantation Post-transfusion cytomegalovirus infection is of concern in the immunocompetent as well as in certain categories of immunocompromised individuals such as neonates, pregnant women, recipients of bone marrow and other organ transplants and individuals with immunodeficiency disorders. The emergence of AIDS in India has necessitated the establishment of reliable tests for diagnosis of cytomegalovirus infection as a damaged immune system permits cytomegalovirus reactivation. The magnitude of this problem in India and the various diagnostic modalities used have not been adequately investigated and, hence, CMV infection is still a major health problem warranting strong preventive measures. The ultimate goal of the prevention program is to develop a vaccine that can be administered to seronegative women of childbearing age to prevent primary infection during pregnancy.

52 ref

024264   Bhatt G K;Singhal L;Philip A;Jose T (Microbiology Dep, Subharati Mecical College, Subharatipuram, Delhi-Haridwar by Pass Road, Meerut, Uttat Pradesh, Email: sideyedoc@yahoo.com) : Sedimentation method, a good alternative of centrifugation for concentration of acid fast bacilli in developing countries: a preliminary study from western Uttar Pradesh. Indian J med Microbiol 2009, 27(1), 83-4.

1 table, 6 ref

024263   Basu E;Dharani Priya B;Sudhakar G (Human Genetics Dep, Andhra Univ, Visakhapatnam-530 003, Email: eshita_basu@yahoo.com) : Effect of reduced glutathione and N-acetyl cysteine in vitro on dopamine induced inhibition of complex-I and IV of mitochondrial electron transport chain. Indian J multidiscipl Res 2009, 5(3), 341-4.

The study attended to explore the potential of N-Acetyl Cysteine and reduced glutathione as neuro protective agents in sporadic Parkinson's diseases. Mitochondrial dysfunction is considered as central mechanism involved in dopaminergic neuronal death in sporadic Parkinson's disease. Parkinson's disease is the commonest neurodegenerative disease after Alzheimer's disease with an estimated incidence of 2 per million and prevalence of 150 per million general populations. The present study attended to establish the protective role of N-Acetyl Cysteine against dopamine induced mitochondrial dysfunction. The study involved in vitro experiments in which mitochondria from rat brain were exposed to varying concentration of dopamine in absence or presence of N-Acetyl Cysteine or reduced glutathione and complex I and complex IV of mitochondrial Electron Transport Chain activity were measured.

2 tables, 6 ref

024262   Baradkar V P;Mathur M;Kumar S (Microbiology Dep, Lokmanya Tilak Municipal Medical College & General Hospital, Sion, Mumbai-400 022, Email: vasantbaradkar@yahoo.com) : Cerebral Candida abscess in an infant. Indian J med Microbiol 2009, 27(1), 70-2.

Brain abscess is uncommon in the pediatric population. Here, we report one such case due to Candida albicans in one-year-old infant, without any predisposing factors. The child presented with progressively increasing size of head circumference. The diagnosis was confirmed by CT scan of brain and microbiological investigations on the drained pus material. The patient responded to combination of surgery (drainage) and intravenous amphotericin B. Neurological development six months after hospital discharge was normal. The organism being a rare cause of cerebral abscess in pediatric population is reported here.

4 illus, 8 ref

024261   Baradkar V P;Mathur M;Kumar S (Microbiology Dep, Lokmanya Tilak Mucicipal Medical College and General Hospital, Sion, Mumbai-400 022, Email: vasantbaradkar@yahoo.com) : Phaeohyphomycosis of subcutaneous tissue caused by Phaeoacremonium parasiticum. Indian J med Microbiol 2009, 27(1), 66-9.

Though Phaeoacremonium parasiticum is an unusual cause of human disease, subcutaneous infection, eumycetoma, osteomyelitis, arthritis and even disseminated diseases, such as fungemia and endocarditis have been reported. Here, we report a case of subcutaneous abscess on the forearm due to P. parasiticum in a 26-year-old woman. There were no obvious predisposing factors. The patient was treated with surgical debridement followed by intravenous amphotericin B and itraconazole to which she responded well. We report this case, being rare and the first from India.

8 ref

024260   Banerjee B (Community Medicine Dep, Maulana Azad Medical College, 2, Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, New Delhi-110 002, Email: bratati1@hotmail.com) : Physical hazards in employmet and pregnancy outcome. Indian J community Med 2009, 34(2), 89-93.

65 ref

024259   Avasthi R;Chaudhary S C;Mohanty D (Medicine Dep, Univ College of Medical Sciences and Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital, Delhi, Email: drshyamchandchaudhary@rediffmail.com>) : Giant mantoux reaction. Indian J med Microbiol 2009, 27(1), 78-9.

1 illus 3 ref

024258   Avasthi R;Chaudhary S C;Khanna S (Medicine Dep, Univ College of Medical Sciences (Univ of Delhi) and GTB Hospital, Delhi-110 095, Email: drshyamchandchaudhary@rediffmail.com) : Visceral leishmaniasis simulating chronic liver disease: successful treatment with miltefosine. Indian J med Microbiol 2009, 27(1), 85-6.

5 ref

024257   Anuradha S;Rudrama Devi K (Human Genetics Lab, Zoology Dep, Osmania Univ, Hyderabad-500 017, Email: s_anuradha26@yahoo.co.in) : Effect of cisplatin on morphology of sperms: an in vivo mice model. Indian J multidiscipl Res 2009, 5(4), 573-8.

Genotoxicity of platinum antitumor agent cispiatin (CP, Cis-dlichlorodiammine platinum II) was investigated by using mouse in vivo test system. This study reports the effects of CP on morphology of sperms in Swiss Albino male mice. Three different doses of CP viz., 2.5, 5, lOmg/kg body weight were used to evaluate the sperm head abnormality. The drag was administered intraperitoneally to experimental animals. Sperm preparations were made after 35 days. Cispiatin induced high frequency of sperm head abnormality at higher doses and the effect was significant at all the 3 doses tested. Animals and human studies have shown that sperm anomalies can be used as indicators and In certain cases, dosimeters of induced spennatogenic effects (Wyrobek 1982).

1 table, 39 ref

024256   Anand K B;Agrawal P;Kumar S;Kapila K (Microbiology Dep, Armed Forces Medical College, Pune-440 040, Email: sat12kum@indiatimes.com) : Comparison of cefoxitin disc diffusion test, oxacillin screen agar, and PCR for mecA gene for detection of MRSA. Indian J med Microbiol 2009, 27(1), 27-9.

Cefoxitin is a potent inducer of the mecA regulatory system. It is being recommended for detection of methicillin resistance in Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) when using disk diffusion testing. The aim of our study was to evaluate the efficacy of cefoxitin disc diffusion test to characterize MRSA and compare it with oxacillin agar screening and detection of mecA gene by PCR. Fifty strains of S. aureus isolated from clinical samples were used in the study. Routine antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed including oxacillin disk. Oxacillin screen agar plates with 4% NaCl and 6 ng/ml of oxacillin were inoculated and interpreted as per standard guidelines. Cefoxitin disc diffusion test was performed using 30 ug disc and zone sizes were measured. PCR for amplification of the mecA gene was performed.Out of the 50 isolates, 28 were found to be methicillin resistant by oxacillin disc diffusion test, 30 were resistant by oxacillin screen agar method, and 32 were resistant with cefoxitin disc diffusion. For these 32 isolates mecA gene was positive.Results of cefoxitin disc diffusion test is in concordance with the PCR for mecA gene. Thus, the test can be an alternative to PCR for detection of MRSA in resource constraint settings.

1 illus, 3 tables, 12 ref

024255   Akbulut H H;Deveci F;Celik I;Iihan F;Turgut T (Immunology Dep, Faculty of Medicine, Firat Univ, Elazig 231 119, Turkey, Email: handanakbulut@yahoo.com) : Investigation of T cell receptors in the peripheral blood of patients with active pulmonary tuberculosis. Indian J med Microbiol 2009, 27(1), 40-3.

T cells have the capability of recognizing target cells through their T cell receptors (TCRs). Thus, the percentages of CD3^{+ gamma-delta (γδ) TCR+ and CD3+/alpha-beta (Ωβ) TCR+ T lymphocytes were investigated in active and inactive pulmonary tuberculosis (PT) patients and in healthy individuals. CD3+ and CD3+/αβTCR+ cell percentages were significantly lower in all PT patients than in healthy subjects. Percentages of CD3+γδ and CD3+/αβTCR+ were not statistically different between active and inactive PT patients. It was concluded that ap TCR+ T cells might have a protective role in tuberculosis infection.}

1 illus, 1 table, 13 ref

024254   Ajay Kumar;Singh S;Pandey A (Microbiology Lab, Biodiversity Conservation and Management and Biotechnological Applicat, Kosi-Katarmal, Almora-263 643) : General microflora, arbuscular mycorrhizal colonization and occurrence of endophytes in the rhizosphere of two age groups of Ginkgo biloba L. of Indian Central Himalaya. Indian J Microbiol 2009, 49(2), 131-41.

Populations of the general microflora (bacteria, actinomycetes and fungi) in the rhizosphere and their corresponding non-rhizosphere soil samples of Ginkgo biloba L. of two age groups (Group A, <25 years-young trees; Group B, >60 years-old trees) growing under a temperate location of Indian Himalayan Region (IHR) have been determined. Observations were also made for the diversity, distribution and colonization of arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi and occurrence of endophytes in roots of G. biloba. The population of general microflora was found to be higher in the rhizosphere of Group B trees, more clearly reflected in terms of rhizosphere: soil (R:S) ratios. Contrary to this, per cent colonization and spore densities of AM fungi were higher in the rhizosphere of Group A trees as compared to the rhizosphere of Group B. AM fungal colonization was observed mostly in form of loose coils. All the spores detected, belonged to the genus Glomus with five different types. Presence of endophytes (both bacteria and fungi) was observed in the cortical cells of G. biloba roots, more profound in case of Group B trees. Data suggest that, while the species of Glomus dominated the rhizosphere of G. biloba, an inverse correlation exist between the colonization of general microflora and the colonization of AM fungi including endophytes.

2 illus, 4 tables, 27 ref

024253   Ahmed M;Munshi S U;Nessa A;Ullah M S;Tabassum S;Islam M N (Virology Dep, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical Univ, (BSMMU), Shahabag, Dhaka, Bangladesh, Email: saifmunshi@yahoo.com) : High prevalence of hepatitis a virus antibody among Bangladeshi children and young adults warrants preimmunization screening of antibody in HAV vaccination strategy. Indian J med Microbiol 2009, 27(1), 48-50.

Serum samples from 465 subjects aged between 1 and 25 years were tested for antibody against hepatitis A virus (HAV) [anti-HAV IgG and IgM] to determine the seroprevalence of HAV antibody and do a cost-benefit analysis for decision making about vaccination against HAV among the general population of Bangladesh. A high prevalence of anti-HAV (74.8%) was observed in the study population; the whole study population was found positive for anti-HAV by the age of 25 years. On performing the cost-benefit analysis, it was found that the cost for vaccination with screening for anti-HAV was almost three times cheaper than vaccination without screening. Thus, in the present socioeconomic condition of Bangladesh, a policy based on screening for HAV antibody before vaccination is recommended.

2 tables, 11 ref

024252   Abraham A M;Babu M;Kavitha S;Jesudason M V; Sridharan G (Clinical Virology Dep, Christian Medical College, Vellore-632 004, Email: asha_@yahoo.com) : Molecular method for typing herpes simplex virus isolates as an alternative to immunofluorescence methods. Indian J med Microbiol 2009, 27(1), 22-6.

Typing of Herpes simplex virus (HSV) isolates is required to identify the virus isolated in culture. The methods available for this include antigen detection by immunofluorescence (IF) assays and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). This study was undertaken to standardize a molecular method for typing of HSV and compare it with a commercial IF reagent for typing. To compare a molecular method for typing HSV isolates with a monoclonal antibody (MAb) based IF test. This cross-sectional study utilized four reference strains and 42 HSV isolates obtained from patients between September 1998 and September 2004. These were subjected to testing using an MAb-based IF test and a PCR that detects the polymerase (pol} gene of HSV isolates. The observed agreement of the MAb IF assay with the pol PCR was 95.7%. Fifty four point eight percent (23/42) of isolates tested by IF typing were found to be HSV-1, 40.5% (17/42) were HSV-2, and two (4.8%) were untypable using the MAb IF assay. The two untypable isolates were found to be HSV-2 using the pol PCR. In addition, the cost per PCR test for typing is estimated to be around Rs 1,300 (USD 30), whereas the cost per MAb IF test is about Rs 1,500 (USD 35) including all overheads (reagents, instruments, personnel time, and consumables). The pol PCR is a cheaper and more easily reproducible method for typing HSV isolates as compared to the IF test. It could replace the IF-based method for routine typing of HSV isolates as availability of PCR machines (thermal cyclers) is now more widespread than fluorescence microscopes in a country like India.

2 illus, 3 tables, 16 ref

023271   Yang J H;Cao Y;Wang R L;Fei Y R;Zhang H;Feng P;Liu J (School of Life Sciences, Graduate Univ, Chinese Academy of Sciences(CAS), 19(A) Yuquan Road, Beijing-100 049, P. R. China, Email: yangjh@gucas.ac.cn) : Anti-resorptive effect of pilose antler blood (Cervus nippon temminck) in ovariectomized rats. Indian J expl Biol 2010, 48(6), 554-8.

Anti-bone resorption activity of pilose antler blood (Cervus nippon Temminck) were evaluated in ovariectomized Wistar rats. The rats were randomly divided into sham operated group (SHAM), ovariectomized group (OVX) and pilose antler blood treated group. The ovariectomized rats were treated with pilose antler blood orally in 4000μlkg daily doses for 10 weeks. Compared with SHAM group, serum 17 β-estradiol level decreased significantly and osteocalcin level increased significantly in OVX group, indicating successful model of osteoporosis. The experiments showed that the bone mineral density of the lumbar spine and left femur in OVX group decreased remarkably compared to SHAM group but normalized by treatment with pilose antler blood. Additionally, serum levels of insulin-like growth factor-land testosterone were lower obviously in OVX group than those in SHAM group but preserved by pilose antler blood treatment. However, no obvious changes in serum levels of calcium, phosphorus, total alkaline phosphatase and osteoprotegerin were observed among three groups. These results suggested that administration of pilose antler blood was effective in alleviating osteoporosis in ovariectomized rats.

3 illus, 33 ref

023270   Wu S;Li Y;Xu Y;Song G;Qin Z;Huang R (NO, Medical College of Soochow Univ, No. 199, Ren Ai Road, Suzhou-215 123, China, Email: hruisdm@163.com) : Macrophage apoptosis associated with Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi plasmid. Indian J expl Biol 2010, 48(8), 773-7.

Study was undertaken to investigate the relationship between plasmid isolated from S. enterica serovar Typhi (pRsT98) and macrophage apoptosis. pR_ST98 was transferred into an attenuated S. enterica serovar Typhimurium strain RIA to create a transconjugant pR_ST98/RIA. Standard S. enterica serovar Typhimurium virulence strain SR-11 was used as a positive control, and RIA as a negative one. Murine macrophage-like cell line (J774A. 1) was used as an infectious cell model in vitro. In order to determine the inhibition and bactericidal effect of amikacin (AMK) to extracellular bacteria and the best optimization co-culture ratio between Salmonella and J774A.1, the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC) of AMK to strains SR-11, pR_ST98/RIA and RIA and multiplicity of infection (MOI) were detected first, and then J774A.1 was infected by the above three serovar Typhimurium strains. Apoptosis of J774A.1 was examined with electron microscopy and flow cytometry after annexin-V/propidium iodide labeling at 0, 1, 3, 6, 12 and 24 h. Mitochondrial membrane potential was detected by JC-1 staining method. It was demonstrated that MIC of AMK to the three strains was 10μg/ml, MBC was 80μg/ml, and optimal MOI was 100:1. pR_ST98/RIA resulted in a higher apoptosis of J774A.1 than RIA, apoptotic features such as chromatin margination could be observed after 3 h, and death of J774A.1 cells was associated with the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential. These results indicated that pR_ST998 could enhance the virulence of its host bacteria, evidenced by increased macrophage apoptosis.

3 illus, 15 ref

023269   Vidhya A;Indira M (Biochemistry Dep, Kerala Univ, Kariavattom, Thiruvananthapuram-695 581, Email: indiramadambath@gmail.com) : Protective effect of quercetin in the regression of ethanol-induced hepatotoxicity. Indian J pharm Sci 2009, 71(5), 527-32.

This study examined the protective effects of quercetin on chronic ethanol-induced liver injury. Rats were treated with ethanol at a dose of 4 g/100 g/day for 90 days. After ethanol intoxication, levels of serum amino transferases were significantly elevated. Decreased activity of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase was also observed on ethanol administration. Increased amounts of lipid peroxidation products viz. hydroperoxides, conjugated dienes and malodialdehyde were observed on ethanol intoxication. Ethanol administration resulted in significant decrease in liver glutathione content. After 90 days, the control animals were divided into two groups, the control group and the control+quercetin group. Ethanol-treated group was divided into two groups, abstention group and quercetin-supplemented group. After 30 days, the animals were sacrificed and various biochemical parameters were analyzed. The changes in enzyme activities as well as levels of lipid peroxidation products were reversed to a certain extent by quercetin. Quercetin supplementation resulted in increase of glutathione content to a significant level compared to normal abstention group. Quercetin supplemented group showed a faster recovery than abstention group. This shows the protective effect of quercetin against chronic ethanol induced hepatotoxicity. Histopathological study is also in line with these results.

2 illus, 4 tables, 30 ref

023268   Venkatrayulu C H;Kalarani V;Reddy D C (Fishery Science and Aquaculture Dep, Sri Venkateswara Univ, Tirupati (A.P.)) : Commercial probiotics as controlling agents of bacterial micro flora in semiintensive shrimp culture ponds. Asian J envir Sci 2009, 4(1), 86-91.

This study examines the possible use of probiotics as controlling agents of pathogenic Vibrio (yellow and green colonies) in the culture ponds of Penaeus monodon. The total heterotrophic bacteria (THB) and Vibrio (yellow and green colonies) were monitored through 30,60,90 and 120 days of culture in three successive summer crops (C₁, C₂ and C₃) in control (CP) and probiotic treated (WFB, FPB and WFPB) ponds. THB count increased significantly (P<0.05) in control as well as probiotic treated pond water with increase of culture duration. Vibrio (yellow and green colonies) count was significantly (P<0.01) higher in control (CP) than in probiotic treated ponds. FPB and WFPB treated pond waters showed no vibrio colonies at 90 days of culture in C₂. The application of probiotics obviously reduced Vibrio population through competitive exclusion was discussed.

3 illus, 27 ref

023267   Veerapur V P;Prabhakar K R;Thippeswamy B S; Bansal P;Srinivasan K K;Unnikrishnan M K (Sree Siddaganga, College of Pharmacy, Tumkur-572 102, Email: veeresh36@gmail.com) : Antidiabetic effect of Dodonaea viscosa (L). Lacq. aerial parts in high fructose-fed insulin resistant rat: a mechanism based study. Indian J expl Biol 2010, 48(8), 800-10.

Study the effect and mode of action of water extract (DVW) and polar fraction of ethanol extract (DVE-4) of D. viscosa in high-fructose diet induced insulin resistance in male Wistar rats. D. viscosa's effects were evaluated on a battery of targets involved in glucose homeostasis (in vitro studies). Rats were rendered insulin resistant by feeding 66% (w/w) fructose and 1.1% (v/w) coconut oil mixed with normal pellet diet (NPD) for six weeks. DVW and DVE4 at different doses were administered simultaneously. At the end of the study, blood glucose, oral glucose tolerance test, lipid profile and insulin were estimated and homeostatic model assessment (HOMA) levels were calculated. In addition, enzymatic and non-enzymatic liver antioxidant levels were also estimated. Quantification of biomarker quercetin was done using HPLC. Fructose diet with DVW, DVE-4 significantly reduced blood glucose, serum insulin, HOMA, lipid profiles and significantly improved glucose tolerance and HDL-c levels. In addition, these extract and fraction also decreased oxidative stress by improving endogenous antioxidants. In different bioassays, DVW and DVE-4 inhibited protein tyrosine phosphatase- IB with IC₅₀ 65.8 and 54.9 |μg/ml respectively and showed partial inhibition of dipeptidyl peptidase-IV. Moreover, DVW and DVE-4, at 10 μg/ml showed 60 and 54.2% binding to peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-y. Further, 2.1% (w/w) of quercetin was quantified in bioactive-DVE-4 using HPLC method. The results provide pharmacological evidence of D. viscosa in treatment of prediabetic conditions and these effects may be mediated by interacting with multiple targets operating in diabetes mellitus.

7 illus, 29 ref

023266   Veena T H;Kumaraswamy S B;Manjunath S; Prashanth S;Fekry B;Karunakumar M;Sharada A C (Biochemistry Dep, Yuvaraja's College, Mysore Univ, Mysore-570 005) : Purification and characterization of hyaluronidase enzyme isolated from human cancer tissue. Bioscan 2009, 4(4), 693-97.

Hyaluronidases have been detected, purified and characterized from human placenta, vitreous, lung, brain, gingival, salivary gland, liver, serum and plasma. However, enhanced expressions of acid active Hyaluronidases have not been investigated properly with any malignancies. Here the isolation and characterization of hyaluronidase from human colon cancer tissue has been studied. The hyaluronidase activity of ten different malignant tissues was determined. Since colon cancer tissue showed the highest activity, this tissue was used for purification and characterization of hyaluronidase. Hyaluronidase from colon cancer tissue has been purified through gel permeation and ion exchange chromatography. The molecular size of the major band of protein obtained on sodium dodecyl sulfate- polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis was 45 kDa and a single translucent band on HA-substrate gel. The pH optimum of the enzyme was, 3.7. Sodium chloride concentrations greater than 200mM were inhibitory. Thus, hyaluronidase present in colon cancer tissue is active at acidic pH, a characteristic property of a lysosomal hyaluronidase.

7 illlus, 2 tables, 26 ref

023265   Upmanyu R;Dvivedi J;Saxena Y (Physiology Dep, Himalayan Institute of Medical Sciences, Jolly Grant, Dehradun-248 140) : Hepatotoxic effects of vincristine : an experimental study on albino rats. Indian J Physiol Pharmac 2009, 53(3), 265-70.

Vincristine (VCR) is an established drug of choice in treatment of some myelomas, lymphomas and leukemias. Hepatotoxicity is a lesser studied side effect of the drug. Samples of blood and other tissues were collected for morphological, biochemical and histopathological evaluation 2 and 24 hours after single intravenous administration of 1.0 mg/kg of VCR to male Albino Wistar rats. VCR produced weight loss; and elevated serum alkaline phosphatase (515.20±356.22, P<0.05), SGPT (192.00±102.62, P<0.05), and SGOT (574.20±292.16, P<0.05) even after 24 hours of drug administration. Though these changes were most severe during the first 2 hours of VCR administration, they also persisted till 24 hours, which may Suggest, a possibility of an enterohepatic circulation of the drug or its metabolites. This was complemented with morphological disruption in hepatocytes on light and electron microscopy including Scanning Electron Microscopy and Transmission Electron Microscopy.

2 illus, 2 tables, 21 ref

023264   Tripathi N K;Khanna P;Gupta N (Zoology Dep, Jammu Univ, Jammu-180 006) : Arsenite induced cytogenetic effects on the polytene chromosomes of Chironomus plumosus form B (Chironomidae diptera). Bioscan 2009, 4(4), 655-60.

Arsenite, the trivalent form of arsenic, is a relatively common, toxic, carcinogenic metalloid that poses a significant environmental health hazard. In the present investigation, non-cytotoxic concentrations (3μg/L, 30μg/ L and 60μg/L) of arsenic trioxide (As^{3+) were used to study their cytogenetic effects with special reference to the frequency and nature of chromosomal aberrations on the polytene chromosomes of Chironomus plumosus Form B larvae for two successive generations using conventional squash procedure. No specimens with standard morphology of the polytene chromosomes were detected in treated chironomids. The most pronounced chromosomal aberrations found were heterozygous inversions followed by asynapsts, chromatid breaks and heterozygous deletions. All deletions and chromatid breaks were confined to the Chromosome IV and most of the chromosomes of both F, and F,generations showed disorganized banding pattern. The present communication suggests that arsenic trioxide had the potential to exert genotoxic and clastogenic effect and these structural changes are interpreted as a reaction of the genome to stressful rearing conditions.}

9 illus, 1 table, 31 ref

023263   Tao Y X;Xu H W;Yin Z Q;Gibbon T F (Sothwest Hospital/Sothwest Eye Hospital, Chongqing Institute of Retina, Third Military Medical Univ, Chongqing 400 038, P.R. China, Email: tshirley 0106@gmail.com) : Noggin induces human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells to differentiate into neural and photoreceptor cells. Indian J expl Biol 2010, 48(5), 444-52.

The study was undertaken to explore the effect of noggin on neuronal differentiating potential of human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBMMSCs) in vitro so as to provide a means of alleviate retinal degeneration. A green fluorescent protein-tagged noggin gene was transferred into adult hBMMSCs or induce hBMMSCs with classical inducer, epidermal growth factor(EGF). Neurons were observed as early as 48 h after transduction of hBMMSCs with a noggin adenoviral vector. Differentiation peaked by 10 days in culture, and these differentiated cells expressed multiple markers including rhodopsin (18.4 ± 1.5% of cells), chxlO (4.8 ± 0.6%), nestin (4.2 ± 0.8%), and Nrl (3.7 ± 0.4%), as verified by immunofluorescence staining. Noggin-transduced cells produced more photoreceptor cells than non-transduced cells, suggesting that noggin has the ability to induce hBMMSCs to trans-differentiate into photoreceptor cells. In contrast, induction with EGF for 10 days led to lower levels of rhodopsin and chxlO, and undetectable levels of Nrl and Nestin. These findings suggested noggin-transduced hBMMSCs produced more photoreceptor cells than EGF-induced cells. It is suggested that the present protocol has application in cell replacement therapy for patients suffering from photoreceptor cell loss.

4 illus, 32 ref

023262   Tamrakar A K;Jain M;Goel A K;Kamboj D V;Singh L (Biotechnology Div, Defence Research and Development Establishment, Jhansi Road, Gwalior-474 002, Email: akgoel173@yahoo.co.uk ) : Characterization of Vibrio cholerae from deep groundwater in a cholera endemic area in Central India. Indian J Microbiol 2009, 49(3), 271-5.

A total of 8 out of 11 deep ground water samples collected from different villages in Central India were found contaminated with Vibrio cholerae non Ol, non O139. In a multiplex PCR, isolates were found positive for omp W gene but negative for ctxAB and rfbOl genes. However, isolates from two places were positive for top and zot genes, indicating their intestinal colonization and toxigenic potential. Antibiotic susceptibility studies revealed that all isolates were multidrug resistant. Although, none of the isolates was found PCR positive for the mobile genetic elements, class 1 integrons and SXT constins. The results of this study corroborated that deep ground water can also be an important reservoir of V. cholerae in plane endemic areas, suggesting a continuous monitoring of water samples for timely prevention of the disease.

1 illus, 2 tables, 20 ref

023261   Sunita Devi H;Vidyarani Devi W (Life Sicences Dep, Manipur Univ, Canchipur-795 003, Email: sunitahemam@yahoo.in) : Effect of pH on growth and survival of freshwater endemic loach, Lepidocephalichthys irrorata (Hora). Bioscan 2009, 4(4), 707-09.

Mortality rates of L. irrorata following 30 days exposure to pH 5.3, 5.5, 5.7, 5.9, 6.1, 8.0, 8.2, 8.4, 8.6 and 8.8 were 10%, 5%, 5%, 10%, 5%, 30%, 25%, 50%, 25%, 25%. After 15 days of exposure, the body weight of female fish placed in pH 8.4 and 8.6 were significantly higher (p = 0.010), (p< 0,010) than those female fishes placed in control. And after 30 days exposure, no significant difference in body weight was found between control and treated fishes.

2 illus, 2 tables, 13 ref

023260   Sreejith G;Latha P G;Shine V J;Anuja G I;Suja S R;Sini S;Shyamal S (Malankara Catholic College, Mariagiri, Kaliakkavilai-629 153, Email: lathagopalakrishnan@yahoo.com) : Anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory and anti-lipidperoxidant effects of Cassia occidentalis Linn.. Indian J expl Biol 2010, 48(5), 494-8.

Cassia occidentalis Linn. mast cell degranulation at a dose of 250 mg/kg, showed dose dependent stabilizing activity towards human RBC, with is widely used in traditional medicine of India to treat a number of clinical conditions including allergy and inflammatory manifestations. In the present study anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties of C. occidentalis whole plant ethanolic extract (CO) was investigated. Effects of CO on rat mast cell degranulation inhibition and human red blood cell (HRBC) membrane stabilization were studied in vitro following standard methods. The anti lipidperoxidant effects of CO were also studied in vitro. Effect of CO on carrageenan-induced mouse paw oedema inhibition was also assessed. CO significantly decreased maximum protection of 80.8% at 15 μ,g/ml. The extract also caused significant reduction in malondialdehyde (MDA) levels of murine hepatic microsomes at 100 μg/ml (56%) and significantly reduced carrageenan induced inflammation in mice at a dose of 250 mg/kg. Results of the present study indicated that CO inhibited mast cell degranulation, stabilized HRBC membrane thereby alleviating immediate hypersensitivity besides showing anti oxidant activity.

1 illus, 4 tables, 24 ref

023259   Singh R S;Thakur G;Bhari R (Carbohydrate and Protein Biotechnology Laboratory, Biotechnology Dep, Punjabi Univ, Patiala-147 002, Email: rssingh11@ycos.com) : Optimization of culture conditions and characterization of a new lectin from Aspergillus niger. Indian J Microbiol 2009, 49(3), 219-22.

Lectin activity was determined on solidified medium containing agar and in broth cultures of Aspergil-lus niger. The fungus was found to express 16 times higher activity in broth cultures, when grown in a medium adjusted to pH 5.5 at 30°C under stationary condition. Lectin activity was found to be expressed by 6-day-old mycelial cultures with maximum activity being expressed on 9th day of incubation. The crude lectin (total liter 1280) was found to be precipitated at 50% saturation of ammonium sulphate with 2.4-fold purification and 83% yield in the precipitate. The partially purified lectin was found to agglutinate all human, rat, mice and pig erythrocytes. It was found to have a strong binding affinity to mucin, asialofetuin and inulin.

2 illus, 1 table, 18 ref

023258   Singh R P;Jhamb S S;Singh P P (NO, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Phase-X, S.A.S. Nagar-160 062, Email: sarbjitjhamb@rediffmail.com) : Effect of morphine of Mycobacterium smegmatis infection in mice and macrophages. Indian J Microbiol 2009, 49(3), 276-82.

The immunomodulatory effects of opioids are known in various infections. However, little is known about the effects of opioids in tuberculosis (TB). Reports the effects of morphine in Mycobacterium smegmatis infection in mice and macrophages. Morphine exerted a dose-dependent suppression of infection in vivo: 50 and 100 mg/kg morphine exerted significant (P<0.05) suppression whereas 5 mg/kg morphine showed no effect. Analogous to the in vivo effects, incubation of M. smegmatis -infected mouse peritoneal macrophages with morphine (100 μM) showed significant reduction in intramacrophage CFU counts. However, morphine did not show any direct antimycobacterial activity in broth dilution assay upto 100 μM concentration. Further, morphine-induced intramacrophage killing of M. smegmatis was abrogated by naloxone and aminoguanidine indicating the involvement of opioid-receptor activation and nitric oxide production in protective effects of morphine. In conclusion, morphine suppressed the progression of experimental TB in both mice and mac-rophage models.

4 illus, 2 tables, 26 ref

023257   Siddalingeshwara K G;Nandini N M;Vishwanatha T;Sudipta K M;Mohsin S M (Studies in Microbiology Dep, Padmshree Institute of Information Sciences, Nagarabhavi Circle, Bangalore-560 072, Email: siddha_lingeshwar@rediffmail.com) : Microbial lipase-screening and optimization from Penicillium expansum. Bioscan 2009, 4(4), 599-601.

Studies were under taken on Penicillium exparrsum KGSN 12 isolated from the soil sample using potato dextrose agar and olive oil used as a substrate to evaluate their ability to produce lipase. The lipase producers were' detected fay the formation clear zone around the colony by simple plate assay method. Studies were under taken on fifteen isolates of Penicillium expansum. The penicillium expansum KGSN 12 showed the highest clear zone among the isolates. The maximum enzyme activity obtained was 4.861 1U under optimum condition of an incubation period 72 hr, pH 5,0 temperature 34°C and 1.0 mL inoculum size.

3 tables, 12 ref

023256   Shridhar M;Gopal S (Studies in Microbiology Dep, Mysore Univ, Mysore) : Radical scavenging potential of Terminalia arjuna bark. Int J Biotechnol Biochem 2009, 5(3), 307-16.

The antioxidant potency of methanolic and aqueous extract of Termina arjuna bark was investigated employing various established in vitro systems, such as l,l-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH)/hydroxyl, lipid peroxidation in membrane liposome vesicles, reducing power and metal ion chelation. As free radicals are highly reactive, short-lived, toxic molecules that have one or more unpaired electrons and can damage DNA, proteins, lipids and carbohydrates within the tissue. The main cause of mortality and morbidity in the western world is atherosclerosis, the accumulation of oxysterols, cholesterol and peroxide lipids in arteries, generated by free radicals which lead to heart attack. Hence, there has been an increased interest in the application of antioxidants to medical treatment as information are constantly gathered, linking the development of human diseases to oxidative stress that leads to the generation of free radicals. Understanding the efficacy and mechanism of the biologically important radicals with natural antioxidants is "the first step towards the development of future therapeutic agents. One such tree is T. arjuna wherein, the decoction of T. arjuna bark with cane sugar and boiled cow's milk is highly recommended for endocarditis, pericarditis, angina and is extensively used in ayurvedic medicine, particularly as cardiac tonic. However, there is no evidence for the antioxidant or radical scavenging activity of T. arjuna. Among the extracts, the methanolic and aqueous extracts showed high antioxidant activity measured as scavenging of DPPH, hydroxyl radicals and lipid peroxidation. Both the aqueous and methanolic extracts exhibited strong reducing power and metal chelating activity. The antioxidant activity correlates with the phenolic content of the extracts. These results demonstrate the antioxidant potency of the bark extracts which could be the basis for its alleged health promoting potential. T. arjuna could serve as a new source of natural antioxidants or nutraceuticals with potential applications to reducing the level of oxidative stress and related health benefits.

5 illus, 2 tables, 31 ref

023255   Shamala T R;Divyashree M S;Davis R;Latha Kumari K S;Vijayendra S V N;Valdev Raj (Food Microbiology Dep, Central Food Technological Research Institute, Mysore-570 020, Email: svnvijayendra@yahoo.com) : Production and characterization of bacterial polyhydroxyal-kanoate copolymers and evaluation of their blends by fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Indian J Microbiol 2009, 49(3), 251-8.

Rhizobium meliloti produced a copolymer of short chain length polyhydroxyal kanoate (scl-PHA) on sucrose and rice bran oil as carbon substrates. Recombinant Escherichia coli (JC7623ABC1J4), bearing PHA synthesis genes, was used to synthesize short chain length-co-me-dium chain length PHA (scl-co-mcl-PHA) on glucose and decanoic acid. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) spectra of the PHAs indicated strong characteristic bands at 1282, 1723, and 2934 cm^{-1 for scl-PHA and at 2933 and 2976 cm-1 for scl-co-mcl-PHA polymer. Differentiation of polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) and polyhydroxy-butyrate-co-hydroxyvalerate-P(HB-co-HV) copolymer was obseverd using FTIR, with absorption bands at 1723 and 1281 for PHB, and at 1738, 1134, 1215 cm-1 for HV-copo-lymer. The copolymers were analyzed by GC and 1H NMR spectroscopy. Films of polymer blends of PHA produced by R. meliloti and recombinant E. coli were prepared using glycerol, polyethylene glycol, polyvinyl acetate, individually (1:1 ratio), to modify the mechanical properties of the films and these films were evaluated by FTIR and scanning electron microscopy.}

4 illus, 3 tables, 17 ref

023254   Shahana Banu;Kulkarni R S;Pasha K (Fish Endocrinology Laboratory, Studies in Zoology Dep, Gulbarga Univ, Gulbarga-585 106, Email: shahanapasha@rediffmail.com) : Brain somatic index (BSI) of the freshwater fish Notopterus notopterus during different reproductive phases. Bioscan 2009, 4(4), 689-92.

The changes in the brain somatic index (BSD has been studied in both sexes of the fish, Notopterus notopterus during different phases of the reproductive cycle. Based on gonado-sornatic index (CSI), the different phases of the reproductive cycle has been identified. The GSI increases during pre-spawning (April-May) and decreases during post spawning phase (October-November) The BSI of female fish during preparatory phase (February-March) was found to be increased and decreased in the post-spawning phase. The BSI of male fish was maximum in pre-spawning and minimum during post spawning phase. The above results indicate that there exists correlation between brain somatic index with that of gonado-somatic index.

2 illus, 1 table, 20 ref

023253   Selvameenal L;Radhakrishnan M;Balagurunathan R (Microbiology Dep, Sri Sankara Arts and Science College, Kanchipuram-631 561, Email: rbalaguru@yahoo.com) : Antibiotic pigment from desert soil actinomycetes; biological activity, purification and chemical screening. Indian J pharm Sci 2009, 71(5), 499-504.

An actinomycete strain, Streptomyces hygroscopicus subsp. Ossamyceticus (strain D10) was isolated from Thar Desert soil, Rajasthan during the year 2006 and found to produce a yellow color pigment with antibiotic activity. Crude pigment was produced from strain D10 by solid state fermentation using wheat bran medium followed by extraction with ethyl acetate. The antimicrobial activity of the crude pigment was evaluated against drug resistant pathogens such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, vancomycin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, extended spectrum β-lactamase producing cultures of Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella sp. About 420 mg of crude pigment was produced per 10 g of wheat bran medium. In the disc diffusion method the crude ethyl acetate extract showed a minimum of 10 mm inhibition against Klebsiella sp. and maximum of 19 mm of inhibition against Escherichia coli. The crude pigment was partially purified using thin layer chromatography with the solvent system chloroform:methanol (30:70) and the Rf value was calculated as 0.768. Antimicrobial activity of the partially purified compound from thin layer chromatography was determined using the bioautography method. The purified pigment showed minimum of 15 film inhibition against Klebsiella sp. and a maximum of 23 mm of inhibition against vancomycin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in the disc diffusion method. Based on the results of chemical screening, the pigment was tentatively identified as group of sugar containing molecules.

3 illus, 3 tables, 21 ref