023252   Sayyed R Z;Gangurde N S;Chincholkar S B (Microbiology Dep, PSGVP Mandal's ASC College, Shahada, Maharashtra-425 409, Email: riyaz829@indiatimes.com) : Hypochlorite digestion method for efficient recovery of PHB from Alcaligenes faecalis. Indian J Microbiol 2009, 49(3), 230-2.

Reports the optimum amount of PHB accumulated by Alcaligenes faecalis during its 24 h growth under nitrogen deficient conditions. After 24 h incubation decrease in the amount of PHB was recorded. Hypochlorite digestion of biomass of organism followed by extraction with a solvent system consisting of 1:1 mixture of ethanol and acetone resulted in efficient recovery of PHB vis-a-vis earlier methods. This solvent system gave a high recovery yield, i.e. 5.6 gL^{-1 vis-a-vis earlier reported yield, 1.34 glr-1 (by same method), 0.63 gL-1 (by chloroform extraction method) and 1.1 gl-1 (by dispersion method).}

1 illsu, 1 table, 21 ref

023251   Ruan W B;Zhu X H;Li H B;Zhang X;Guo S Y;Wang J G;Zhang F S;Gao Y B (College of Life Sciences, Nankai Univ, Tianjin 300 071, China, Email: ruanweibin2004@hotmail.com) : Soybean autotoxicity: effects of M-hydroxy-phenylacetic acid on cell ultrastructural changes and gene expression in soybean roots. Allelopathy J 2009, 24(2), 271-82.

Application of m-hydroxy-phenylacetic acid (MHPA), significantly inhibited the radicle growth and root tips became thicker and brownish in colour than untreated control. Transmission electron microscopy analysis showed that MHPA adversely affected the soybean root tip, leading to sparse cytoplasm and fewer organelles in root meristematic cell, cell vacuolation and poorly developed irregular amyloplasts in root columella cell. A total of 33 differentially displayed cDNA fragments were found between the MHPA treated and control samples and 6 differential displayed cDNA fragments were observed after the subsequent DDRT-PCR reactions on extracted RNA. Results from RT-PCR confirmed two differential expressions, (i). one down-regulated gene (S385) and (ii). one up-regulated gene (S452), these expressed approximate half-fold and 5-folds over the control plants, respectively.

6 illus, 1 table, 34 ref

023250   Roy A;Sharma K K (P. G. Zoologoy Dep, Jamshedpur Co-operative College, Jamshedpur-831 001, Email: kksharma.jsr@gmail.com) : Plasma progesterone profile variations in the determination of the lenght of gestation periods in the Indian short-nosed bat, Cynopterus sphinx, vall. Bioscan 2009, 4(4), 669-701.

Cynopterus sphinx, one of the Indian tropical fruit bats, breeds twice in a year in quick succession. The special feature of the breeding cycle of this bat species is the variation in the length of gestation period during the two successive pregnancies of the year owing to delayed embryonic development during the winter pregnancy. Thus the winter pregnancy was considerable longer than the summer one. Moreover, the two peaks of the plasma progesterone concentrations were seen corresponding with the two gestation periods, with a relatively lower (p< 0.05) circulating progesterone profile during the long winter pregnancy as compared with short summer pregnancy. This suggests that the progesterone profile status may, however, play important role in deciding the length of gestation period in this bat species.

3 illus, 19 ref

023249   Risso W E;Scarminio I S;Moreira E G (Chemistry Dep, Laondrina State Univ, 8651-980-Londrina, Parana, Brazil, Email: egmoreira@uel.br) : Antinociceptive and acute toxicity evaluation of Vernonia condensata baker leaves extracted with different solvents and their mixtures. Indian J expl Biol 2010, 48(8), 811-16.

Extract of Vernonia condensata (Asteraceae = Compositae) leaves has different uses in Brazilian folk medicine, which includes analgesic and antiinflamatory agent. The aim of this study was to apply a modified simplex-centroid mixture design to evaluate the best extractor system for the antinociceptive activity, evaluated by writhing test. Different solvents (acetone, dichloromethane, ethanol and ethyl acetate) as well as their binary, ternary and quaternary mixtures were used. For comparison, aqueous extract was also evaluated. LD₅₀ was estimated and qualitative phytochemical screening, conducted. The extracts with antinociceptive activity were: aqueous, acetone, dicloromethane (DCM), ethanol (ETOH), acetone-DCM, acetone-ETOH, acetone-ethyl acetate, ETOH-ethyl acetate, acetone-DCM-ethyl acetate, acetone-ETOH-ethyl acetate and DCM-ETOH-ethyl acetate. The higher margin of safety (LD₅₀/ED₅₀) was for acetone > acetone-ETOH-ethyl acetate > aqueous > ETOH = acetone-ETOH > DCM> acetone-ethyl acetate > DCM-ETOH-ethyl acetate > acetone-DCM > acetone-DCM-ethyl acetate. Phytochemical screening showed that all the extracts contained alkaloids, phenolic compounds, flavonoids, tannins and saponins. In conclusion, the extractor system influences both the pharmacological activity and acute toxicity of leaves from V. condensata. Acetone and the ternary mixture, acetone-ETOH-ethyl acetate extracts showed higher margin of safety than aqueous extract.

1 illus, 2 tables, 26 ref

023248   Reddy T M;Kumar C S;Kumar V (Biochemistry Dep, Sri Krishnadevaraya Univ, Anantapur-515 003) : Efficient in vitro plant regeneration in rue (Ruta graveolens L.). Bioscan 2009, 4(4), 703-6.

A highly efficient, reliable and reproducible procedure was established for the in vitro plant regeneration in Ruta graveolens L. from nodal segments collected from ex vitro 2-3 year old plants. Influence of medium nutrient composition, different plant growth regulator concentrations and combinations was studied. Of the three nutrient media tested MS medium supported for the high frequency of regeneration. Optimal shoot organogenesis was achieved on MS medium supplemented with high cytokinin to low auxin combinations. Among the different cytokinin to auxin combinations tried, the 6-BAP (2mgL^{-1) and IBA (0.2 mgL1) combination induced multiple shoots in nodal explants (18.1 ± 0.11 shoots per explant). Similarly 2, 4-D (2 mgL-1) and kinetin (2 mgL-1)-2, 4-D (0.2 mgL-1) combinations also induced multiple shoots (16.7 ± 0.05 and 11.5± 0.05 shoots per explant respectively). Rooting in excised shoots was achieved on MS medium supplemented with either IAA or NAA or (BA. (BA (1.0 mgL-1) was observed to be more effective in inducing profused rooting (4,2 ± 0.09 roots per shoot). The rooted plantlets were successfully transplanted and acclimatized to field conditions.}

2 illus, 3 tables, 19 ref

023247   Ravi Sekhar P;Savithri Y;Kishore S;Jacob Doss P;Rao K J (Zoology Dep, Sri Venkateswara Univ, Tirutati, (A.P.)) : Effect of cypermethrin on total carbohydrates, glycogen, pyruvate and lactic acid contents in liver and kidney tissues of albino rats. Asian J envir Sci 2009, 4(1), 24-8.

Cypermethrin is a synthetic pyrethroid insecticide that has insecticidal activity, low avain and mammalian toxicity that affects the nervous system of vertebrates and invertebrates by affecting voltage depending sodium channels and inhibiting ATPase enzymes. This study has revealed significant variance in total carbohydrates, glycogen, pyruvate and lactate content in liver and kidney tissues of albino rats after administration of cypermethrin. With the oral sublethal dose (41 mg/kg) of cypermethrin as single dose, double dose, multiple doses with 48 intervals, the total carbohydrate, glycogen, pyruvate contents decreased where as lactic acid content increased in liver and kidney tissues of albino rats. In the present study, significant decrement was observed in total carbohydrates, glycogen and pyruvate contents due to higher energy demands under cypermeth rin toxicity.

1 table, 38 ref

023246   Ramanathan G;Banupriya S;Abirami D (Microbiology Dep, V H N S N College, Virudhunagar-626 001, Email: san_than2002@yahoo.co.in) : Production and optimization of cellulase from Fusarium oxysporum by submerged fermentation. J scient ind Res 2010, 69(6), 454-9.

Fusarmm oxysporum, isolated from infected tomato plant parts, produced maximum cellulase at optimum parameters (pH, 6.0; temp., 50°C; and incubation period, 12 d) in cellulase enzyme production broth having 1% CMC (carboxy methyl cellulose) as a cellulose substrate. Activities of purified cellulases (mol wt, 24,29 and 45 kDa) were stimulated by concentrations (0-70 mM) of Na^{+ and Mg++, while EDTA inhibited enzyme activity at all concentrations.}

3 illlus, 1 table, 17 ref

023245   Raju Suresh Kumar;Sareesh N N;Nayak S; Mailankot M (Physiology Dep, Melaka Manipal Medical College (Manipal Campus), Manipal Univ, Manipal-576 104, Email: manu_only@hotmail.com) : Hypoactivity of wistar rats exposed to mobile phone on elevated plus maze. Indian J Physiol Pharmac 2009, 53(3), 283-6.

2 illus, 13 ref

023244   Raja A B;Elanchezhiyan C;Sethupathy S (Zoology Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalainagar-608 002) : Hepatoprotective effect of Hifecteres isora fruits extract on streptozotocin induced diabetic rat. Bioscan 2009, 4(4), 577-80.

An attempt has been made to test the hepatoprotective efficacy of the herbal plant Helicteres rsora Fruit Extract (HiFE) on streptozotocin induced diabetic rats. The diabetic rats showed increased activity of ALP, AST, ALT and bilirubin both in serum and liver tissues. The herbal Helicteres isora fruit extract treated diabetic rats showed marked restoration in the activity of ALP, AST, ALT and bilirubin when compared with normal rats. Liver weight decreased in diabetic rats whereas the herbal extract treated diabetic rats maintained the liver weight as that of normal rats. The total protein content in serum and liver were also maintained by the herbal extract treated diabetic rats when compared to diabetic control rats. The hepatoprotective effect of Heticteres isora fruit extract was compared with the standard drug giibendamide.

2 tables, 29 ref

023243   Qu P;Ma J H;Zhang X M;Hung X J;Yang X W;Sui Y F (Center of Teaching Experiment, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fourth Military Medical Univ, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province 710 032, Email: yangfang_sui@163.com) : Novel DNA vaccine constructed by heat shock protein 70 and melanoma antigen-encoding gene 3 against tumorigenesis. Indian J expl Biol 2010, 48(5), 436-43.

Melanoma antigen-encoding gene 3 (MAGE-3) is an ideal candidate for a tumor vaccine although its potency need to be increased. Heat shock proteins (HSPs) represents a potential approach for increasing the potency of DNA vaccines. In the present study, a fusion DNA vaccine composed of Mycobacterium tuberculosis HSP70 and MAGE-3 was constructed and used to immunize C57BL/6 mice against B16 or B16-MAGE-3 tumor cells. The results show that the HSP70-MAGE-3 fusion DNA vaccine enhanced the frequency of MAGE-3-specific cytotoxic T-cells as compared to the MAGE-3 DNA vaccine or the HSP70/MAGE-3 cocktail DNA vaccine (P<0.05). In conclusion, the results indicate that the HSP70-MAGE-3 fusion DNA vaccine can strongly activate MAGE-3 specific cellular immunological reactions and thus significantly inhibit the growth of B16-MAGE-3 tumors, improving the survival of tumor-bearing mice, and the HSP70-MAGE-3 fusion DNA vaccine has a significant therapeutic effect on the tumors that express MAGE-3 antigens.

5 illus, 30 ref

023242   Pundir C S;Sharma M (Biochemistry Research Laboratory, Biochemistry Dep, Maharshi Dayanand Univ, Rohtak-124 001, Email: pundircs@gmail.com) : Oxalate biosensor. J scient ind Res 2010, 69(7), 489-94.

Oxalate biosensors (OBs) are based on either measurement of oxygen or electrons generated from splitting of H₂O₂ or heat released during oxidation of oxalate by immobilized oxalate oxidase. OBs are grouped in four classes based on probe used (DO meter, electrochemical, SIRE technology and thermochip). OBs work optimally at: time, 5 s to 15 min; pH, 2.8 - 8.0; temp., 30 - 38°C and linearity, 1.0-100 μ.M oxalate. OBs are employed to determine oxalate in urine, serum, plasma, foodstuffs and can be reused 80-400 times over a period of 3 days to 4 months. This review presents OBs as well as their merits and demerits.

^iia3 tables, 26 ref

023241   Prasanna N D;Vijayalakshmi K;Shaheen S K; Vijaya Sai L;Pavana Jyotsna K (Applied Microbiology Dep, Sri Padmavathi Mahila Visvavidyalayam, Tirupati-517 502) : Pseudomonas stutzeri EGB3 from the GUT of earthworm (Eisenia foetida): isolation, biochemical characterization and its antimicrobial potentials as biocontrol agent. Bioscan 2009, 4(4), 725-30.

Twenty bacterial isolates were obtained from earthworm gut (Eisenia foetida) by serial dilution and plating technique. All the isolates were culture-purified and screened for antimicrobial activity against phytopathogens belonging to species of genera like Fusarium and Aspergillus and fifteen of them exhibited strong fungicidal properties. One promising strain, designated as EGB₃, with strong antifungal activity was further studied for morphological, cultural, physiological, and biochemical properties. Molecular characterization, 16S rRNA sequencing and BLAST analysis indicated the strain as Pseudomonas stutzeri (100% similarity with Gen Bank sequences). The secondary metabolite (culture supernatant) produced by Pseudomonas stutzeri EGB₃ was found to be stable at different salinity, temperature, pH values, detergents and enzymes. Moreover the culture supernatant retained its antimicrobial activity even at 80°C and there is a complete toss of antimicrobial activity at 121°C for 15 min. There was no significant loss of antifungal activity after treatment with enzymes like Trypsin and Proteinase K. The results obtained in the present investigation indicated that Pseudomonas stutzeri EGB₃ produced a thermostable secondary metabolite identified as siderophorer.

11 tables, 14 ref

023240   Parabathina R K;Parasa L S;Kamisetty A K;Kaza S R (Biochemistry Dep, Acharya Nagarjuna Univ, Nagarjuna Nagar, Guntur, Email: kumar_rajaparabathina@yahoo.co.in) : Clinical study of lipid profile in hospital population. Int J Biotechnol Biochem 2009, 5(3), 343-50.

In the study the rural population of gannavaram was selected and 243 fasting blood samples were collected from the male and female patients who are suffering with one or other clinical symptoms of heart problem. The patients were analyzed for serum lipid profile i.e. Total Cholesterol, HDL-Cholesterol, Triglycerol (Tg), LDL- Cholesterol and VLDL-Cholesterol. The people were categorized according to their gender and age. The overall male patients are 146 and females are 97 in number. These peoples are separated by age groups like <40 yrs (male:35, & female:31), 41-60 yrs (male:82, & female:55), >61 yrs (male:29, & female: 11). The values obtained (Mean ± SE) in <40 yrs male and female are Total Cholesterol was 198±3.9 mg/dl, 213±2.5* mg/dl, HDL-Cholesterol was '37±0.64 mg/dl, 38±1.2 mg/dl, Triglycerol (Tg) was 197±2.3* mg/dl, 204±2.2* mg/dl, LDL- Cholesterol was 144±2.5* mg/dl, 119±3.2 mg/dl and VLDL-Cholesterol was 28±1.65 mg/dl, 32±1.3 mg/dl. The values obtained in 41-60 yrs male and female are Total Cholesterol was 200±2.2, mg/dl 228±3.9 mg/dl, HDL-Cholesterol was 40±0.8 mg/dl, 39±1.1 mg/dl, Triglycerol (Tg) was 194±2.3* mg/dl, 211±2.3* mg/dl, LDL- Cholesterol was 141±3.8 mg/dl, 129±2.7 mg/dl and VLDL-Cholesterol was 28±1.7 mg/dl, 31±0.86 mg/dl. The values obtained in >61 yrs male and female are Total Cholesterol was 192±2.5* mg/dl, 224±2.4* mg/dl, HDL-Cholesterol was 38±1.01 mg/dl, 40±2.7 mg/dl, Triglycerol (Tg) was 191±2.1* mg/dl, 204±2.2* mg/dl, LDL- Cholesterol was 134±2.3* mg/dl, 125±3.4 mg/dl and VLDL-Cholesterol was 28±2.4 mg/dl, 30±1.4 mg/dl. The lipid profile significantly varies in the age group of 41-60 years in male and female.

2 tables, 12 ref

023239   Nayak B S;Marshall J R;Isitor G (Preclinical Sciences Dep, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The Univ of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad, Email: shivananda.nayak@sta.uwi.edu) : Wound healing potential of ethanolic extract of Kalanchoe pinnata Lam. leaf-A preliminary study. Indian J expl Biol 2010, 48(6), 572-6.

The extract of K. pinnata was evaluated for its wound healing activity by using excision wound model in rats. On day 11, animaTs treated with the ethanolic leaf extract exhibited 86.33% reduction in the wound area, compared to petroleum jelly treated control (69.36%) and the mupirocin treated standard (85.49%). The hydroxyproline content of extract treated animals was higher, as compared to control and the standard groups. Histological analysis was also consistent with the proposal that K. pinnata leaf extract exhibits significant wound healing potential. The increased rate of wound contraction and hydroxyproline content in the extract treated animals supports the claims made by traditional healers of the benefits obtained from the medicinal use of K. pinnata.

6 illus, 20 ref

023238   Nautiyal P;Semwal V P (Zoology Dep, H.N.B. Garhwal Univ, Srinagar Garhwal, Uttaranchal-246 174) : Benthic macroinvertebrate community in the mountain streams: longitudinal patterns of distribution in west Himalaya (Gangetic drainage-Mandakini basin). J Mountain Res 2006, 1, 39-49.

The study focused on the longitudinal distribution patterns of benthic macroinvertebrate community at the basin scale. The patterns were observed with respect to forest type and subsequently to altitude and stream length in the Mandakini basin (30°17' to 30°49' North and longitude 78°49' to 79°32' East). Nine stations selected on seven streams draining four sub-basin were sampled from May 1999 to December 2000. Sampling was conducted for 20 months in continuation and 900 samples were obtained in this tenure (5 quadrates of 1 ft^{2 per site x 9 sites x 20 months). The density levels were higher in the Kakra and Swar. The Rawan and Byung were characterized by relatively lower density. The mean density of benthic macroinvertebrate attained apeak during winter (January) and fall during monsoon (July and August) at the all stations. Dominance of individual group of insects (orders) at different sampling station in different streams are discussed with possible reasons thereof.}

4 illus, 2 tables, 41 ref

023237   Medhi B;Aggarwal R;Chakrabarti A (Pharmacology Dep, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh-160 012, Email: drbikashus@yahoo.com) : Neuroprotective effect of pioglitazone on acute phase changes induced by partial global cerebral ischemia in mice. Indian J expl Biol 2010, 48(8), 793-9.

The study was carried out to investigate the possible neuroprotective effect of pioglitazone, an antidiabetic agent, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) agonist on acute phase changes in mice model of cerebral ischemia induced by Bilateral Common Carotid artery Occlusion (BCCAO). BCCAO model was used to induce partial global cerebral ischemia. BCCAO induced significant brain infarct size and edema in saline treated control group along with high increase in oxidative stress showed by increase lipid peroxidation and decreased levels of antioxidants like superoxide superoxide dismutage, catalase, glutathione peroxidase. Pioglitazone (20 mg/kg, orally) administration showed neuroprotective effects by reducing cerebral infarct size significantly as compared to control group. Postischemic seizure susceptibility was also reduced as number of positive responders decreased to a significant number. Brain edema was subsided to a significant level. Pioglitazone reduced the plasma TNF-a levels as compared to ischemia group significantly. Pioglitazone treatment also improved all the antioxidants levels showing activity against oxidative stress induced by BCCAO. Pioglitazone showed neuroprotection against ischemic insult suggesting the role of PPAR y agonist in neuroprotective agents.

3 table, 25 ref

023236   Mascio C;White D J;Tisa L S (Microbiology Dep, New Hampshire Univ, Durham NH-3824 2617, Email: lst@hypatia.unh.edu ) : Construction and purification of his-tagged staphylococcal ArsB protein, an integral membrane protein that is involved in arsenical salt resistance. Indian J Microbiol 2009, 49(3), 212-18.

Bacterial resistance to arsenical salts encoded on plasmid pI258 occurs by active extrusion of toxic oxy-anions from cells of Staphylococcus aureus. The operon encodes for three gene products: ArsR, ArsB and ArsC. The gene product of arsB is an integral membrane protein and it is sufficient to provide resistance to arsenite and an-timonite. A poly His-ArsB fusion protein was generated to purify the staphylococcal ArsB protein. Cells containing the His-tagged arsB gene were resistant to arsenite and antimo-nite. The levels of resistance to these toxic oxyanions by the His-tagged construct were greater than the levels obtained with the wild type gene. These data would indicate that the His-tagged protein is functionally active. A new 36 kDa protein band was visualized on 10% SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE), which was confirmed as the His-ArsB protein by immunodetection with polyclonal His-antibodies. The His-ArsB fusion protein was purified by the use of metal-chelate affinity chromatography with a Ni^{+2 nitrilotriacetic acid column and size-exclusion chromatography suggests that the protein was a homodimer.}

3 illus, 35 ref

023235   Mali G V;Bodhankar M G (Microbiology Dep, Bharati Vidyapeet's, M.B.S.K. Kanya Mahavidyalaya, Kadegaon, Sangli-415 304, Email: gajamali@rediffmail.com) : Effect of mixed culture inoculation of native rhizobia and Azotobacter on nodulation and dry mass of groundnut (Arachis hypogea L.) in pot culture experiment. Bioscan 2009, 4(4), 603-6.

A study on the effect of mixed culture inoculation of native isolates of Rhizobia and Azotobacter cbroococcum on nodulation and dry mass of groundnut (Arachis hypogea L.) var. TPG 41, JL 286 and JL 501 was undertaken in pot culture experiment by using randomized block design. There was significant increase in nodulation and dry mass of each variety due mixed culture inoculation of native isolates of Rhizobia and Azotobacter over uninoculated control. Treatment with Azotobacter alone or Rhizobium alone and with mixture of Azotobacter and Rhizobium biofertilizers also increased nodulation and dry mass over control but it was less than the native species.

3 tables, 19 ref

023234   Madhyastha M;Vatsala T M (Applied Physiology Dep, Faculty of Medicine Miyazaki Univ, Miyazaki, Japan) : Cysteine rich cyanopeptide β 2 from Spirulina fussiformis exhibits plasmid DNA pBR322 scission prevention and cellular antioxidant activity. Indian J expl Biol 2010, 48(5), 486-93.

Isolation of three different active peptides from C-phycocyanin (C-pc) β chain of S. fussiformis and their biological properties are reported. Phycocyanin peptide (3 fraction 2 (cyanopeptide (3 2) facilitated both antioxidant and plasmid DNA strand scission prevention activity due to higher cysteine moieties in the isolated peptide. The peptide significantly scavenged the free radicals like 1-1,-diphenyl-2-picryl hydrazyl and ferric reducing ability of plasma, increased the absorbance values in reducing power and also showed the higher trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity values in total reactive antioxidant potentials assay. Cyanopeptide (3 2 also inhibited reactive oxygen species induced DNA pBR322 damage in dose dependent manner along with free radical scavenging properties suggesting the role in the DNA integrity which is also evident by DNA binding activity of peptide. In addition, the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was dose dependent (10 and 20 ng/ml) and significantly quenched by cyanopeptide (32 in human fibroblast cell line TIG 3-20. In vitro cell scratch injury assay demonstrated the capacity of cyanopeptide 32 in cell migration in to wounded area suggesting fibroblast proliferation and migration. The results suggest that cyanopeptide β can be a free radical scavenger and effective peptide for future biomedical applications like wound healing, atherosclerosis, cell redox potential and hypoxia.

5 illus, 3 tables, 28 ref

023233   Liu S;Dong W;Kong T (Pathophysiology Dep, Guangzhou Mecical College, No. 195 Dong Feng West Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong-510 082, China, Email: kongth@sohu.com) : Preparation and characterization of immunoglobulin yolk against the venom of Naja naja atra. Indian J expl Biol 2010, 48(8), 778-85.

Chinese cobra (Naja naja atra) bite is one of the leading causes of snake-bite mortality in China. The traditional anti-cobra venom serum therapy was found to be expensive and with high frequency of side effects. Therefore attempts were made to generate a high liter immunoglobulin from egg yolk (IgY) of crude cobra-venom immunized Leghorn hens, and to standardize an effective method for producing avian antivenom in relatively pure form. The IgY was isolated first by water dilution method to remove the lipid, then extracted by ammonium sulfate precipitation, and purified through anion exchange chromatogram. The different purities of IgY from different isolating stages were submitted to enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and SDS-PAGE to determine their titers. Immunoblotling showed that the purified IgY (ion exchange chromatography fraction, IECF) recognized several antigenic fractions of cobra venom, and presented with the character of polyclonal antibody. IECF on SDS-PAGE under reducing conditions migrated as a 65 kDa heavy chain and a 35 kDa light chain, respectively. The LD₅₀ of the N. naja atra venom was 0.62 mg/kg body weighl in mice. Four limes Ihe LD₅₀ dose of venom was selected as challenge dose, and the ED₅₀ of IgY was 3.04 mg lECF/mg venom. The results indicate that the activity of anti-snake venom IgY could be obviously elevated by ion exchange chromatography, thus possessing therapeutic significance for snakebite envenomation.

5 illus, 1 table, 35 ref

023232   Lavu V;Padmavathy R;Rao S R (Periodontics Dep, Sri Ramachandra Dental College, Sri Ramachandra Univ, No 01 Ramachandra Nagar, Porur, Chennai-600 116, Email: chennai_dentist@yahoo.co.in) : Immunolocalization of CD 34 positive progenitor cells in healthy human gingiva-a pilot study. Indian J med Res 2009, 129(6), 685-9.

The gingiva is a tissue with a high turnover rate of both epithelial and connective tissue cells. In an attempt to identify the possible source of cells which maintain the tissue turnover, we used CD 34, a well established marker of peripheral blood stem cell in healthy human gingiva to determine the origin of progenitor cells in healthy gingiva. Healthy human gingival samples (n=15) were collected from patients undergoing orthodontic extraction. Immunohistochemistry was done on 5 micron paraffin fixed section using the primary antibody CD34 and a universal secondary immunoperoxidase kit. The sections were examined for a golden brown stain indicative of a positive staining. Of the 15 samples 12 demonstrated a positive staining for the endothelial cells. Of these 12 samples, 11 demonstrated positive staining for stromal and paravascular cells and 10 a positive staining for the basal epithelium layers. Interpretation & conclusions: The presence of CD 34 positive cells in gingiva in stromal, paravascular location, and basal layer of the gingival epithelium was demonstrated. We speculate that these could be fibroblastic progenitors originating from the peripheral blood stem cells and the positivity stained epithelial cells could be gingival epithelial stem cells.

4 illus, 22 ref

023231   Kundu S;Kulkarni G R (Natn Centre for Biol Sci, , T 11-R, GKVK Campus, Bangalore-560 065, Email: srikanya19@gmail.com) : Enhancement of magnetotactic bacterial yield in a modified MSGM medium without alteration of magnetosomes properties. Indian J expl Biol 2010, 48(5), 518-23.

Magnetotactic bacteria (MTB), Magnetospirillum magnetotacticum (MS-1) were successfully grown in modified magnetic spirillum growth medium (MSGM) at normal laboratory environment. About five-time increase in the bacterial yield was achieved in the modified MSGM medium without compromising their magnetosomes properties. Transmission electron and scanning electron microscopy (TEM & SEM) were used for morphological study of MTB. Energy dispersive analysis of X-rays (EDAX) and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) techniques, respectively, were used to elucidate the phase and magnetization in the bacterially synthesized magnetosomes. These studies were important to cross-check the morphology of magnetosomes, as the formation of magnetosomes was highly sensitive to environmental conditions.

4 illus, 21 ref

023230   Kumar R N;Chakraborty S;Nirmal Kumar J I (Biological and Environmental Sciences Dep, N.V. Patel College of Pure and Applied Sciences, Vallabh Vidyanagar, Gujarat) : Effect of light stress on peroxidase, succinate dehydrogenase and total chlorophyll content in Andrographis paniculata. Asian J envir Sci 2009, 4(1), 34-8.

Andrographis paniculata, a medicinal herb was grown in two different light intensities i.e. 1.44xl0^{3-2.24xl03imole.photons.m-2-sec-1 and 0.24x103-0.96xl03 imole.photons.m-2.sec-1 for a period of three different growth stages i.e. vegetative, flowering and fruiting to evaluate its response towards peroxidase (POD), succinate dehydrogenase (SDHj activity and total chlorophyll content. Increased activity of POD was observed in the plants grown in higher light intensity. On the contrary higher light intensity proved to be detrimental for the activity of SDH and total chlorophyll content which was recorded higher in lower light intensity. From the present study it can be suggested that higher light intensity is acting as a stressful condition for A. paniculata.}

3 illus, 28 ref

023229   Kothari S;Thompson A;Agarwal A;du Plessis S S (Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Desk A 19.1, Cleveland, Ohio-441 95, USA, Email: Agarwaa@ccf.org) : Free radicals their beneficial and detrimental effects on sperm function. Indian J expl Biol 2010, 48(5), 425-35.

Free radicals are molecules with one or more unpaired electron(s) commonly found in seminal plasma. Physiologically, free radicals control sperm maturation, capacitation and hyperactivation, the acrosome reaction, and sperm-oocyte fusion. Pathologically, free radicals induce lipid peroxidation, DNA damage and apoptosis of spermatozoa. The present review deals with both the beneficial and detrimental effects of free radicals on sperm function.

1 illus, 122 ref

023228   Karanth J;Jeevaratnam K (Biochemistry and Molecular Biol Dep, Defence Food Research Laboratory, Mysore-570 011, Email: jeevskj@yahoo.co.in) : Effect of carnitine supplementation on mitochondrial enzymes in liver and skeletal muscle of rat after dietary lipid manipulation and physical activity. Indian J expl Biol 2010, 48(5), 503-10.

Effect of carnitine supplementation in enhancing fat utilization was investigated by looking into its effects on mitochondrial respiratory enzymes activity in liver and muscle as well as on membrane fatty acid profile in rats fed with hydrogenated fat (HF) and MUFA-rich peanut oil (PO) with or without exercise. Male Wistar rats were fed HF-diet (4 groups, 8 rats in each group) or PO-diet (4 groups, 8 rats in each group), with or without carnitine for 24 weeks. One group for each diet acted as sedentary control while the other groups were allowed swimming for 1 hr a day, 6 days/week, for 24 weeks. The PO diet as well as exercise increased the activities of mitochondrial enzymes, NADH dehydrogenase, NADH oxidase, cytochrome C reductase, cytochrome oxidase, while carnitine supplementation further augmented the oxidative capacity of both liver and muscle significantly by enhancing the activity of carnitine palmitoyl transferase and the respiratory chain enzymes. These effects can be attributed to the enhanced unsaturated fatty acids in phospholipids of mitochondria and may be due to increased fluidity of the membrane in these rats. Results of this study show a significant health promoting effects of carnitine supplementation which could be further augmented by regular exercise.

1 illus, 5 tables, 33 ref

023227   Kalyan Kumar T D;Murali H S;Batra H V (Microbiology Div, Defence Food Research Laboratory, Siddhartha Nagar, Mysore-570 011, Email: devikalyan@gmail.com) : Simultaneous detection of pathogenic B. cereus, S. aureus and L. Monocytogenes by multiplex PCR. Indian J Microbiol 2009, 49(3), 283-9.

Three important foodborne pathogens, Bacillus cereus, Listeria monocytogenes and Staphylococcus aureus are of major concern for food safety in terms of frequency and seriousness of the disease. The occurrence these three important pathogens and their coexistence in food matrices are predominant. Moreover, symptoms associated with B. cereus and S. aureus food poisoning not only closely resembles each other but can also be overlapping with other foodborne infections. In this context, detection of these three pathogens simultaneously in food samples by a single multiplex PCR (mPCR) would have advantages in terms of rapidity and cost saving, when compared with single organism specific PCRs. mPCR has been standardized by targeting three major diarrheal enterotoxin genes hblA, cytK and nhe A of B. cereus, virulence associated nuc and Ent B genes of S. aureus and virulence associated hly and iap genes of L. monocytogenes along with internal amplification control (IAC). The results showed that mPCR accurately identified all the three organisms individually or in combination without non-specificity. The mPCR was able to detect as low as 10 to 100 organisms per ml of growth following overnight enrichment of spiked food samples (vegetable biriyani and milk) and their presence in naturally contaminated samples also. The high throughput and cost effective multiplex PCR method developed in this study could provide a powerful tool for simultaneous, rapid and reliable detection of B. cereus, S. aureus and L. monocytogenes in food samples.

1 illus, 2 tables, 21 ref

023226   Jitendra Kumar;Singh P P;Singh V N (Zoology Dep, T.M. Bhagalpur Univ, Bhagalpur-812 007, Email: jitusweet86@yahoo.in ) : Effect of neem oil (Azadirachta Indica A. juss.) on electrophoretic protein pattern in semen of mice. Bioscan 2009, 4(4), 679-81.

The neern oil (Azadirachta indica A. uss.) causes significant increase in total electrophoretic protein concentration in seminal plasma of mice during 10 (p < 0.1), 20 (p < 0.01) and 30 days (p < 0.001} of treatment than the control. Such rise in electrophoretic protein is due to significant increase in anodic protein concentration. Significant increase in electrophoretic protein concentration causes increase in viscosity of seminal plasma of neem treated mice that result into lower motility and higher motility of spermatozoa. Rise in anodic protein concentration of neem treated mice adds more negative charge on sperm surface membrane that inhibits capacitation as well as fertilizing ability of the spermatozoa. This suggests that neem oil shows antifertility effects in male mice by increasing viscosity of semen plasma causing lower motility and also impair capcitation of spermatozoa, thus helps in fertility control.

1 tables, 27 ref

023225   Jaspreet Kaur;Rup Lal (Molecular Biology Laboratory, Zoology Dep, Delhi Univ, Delhi-110 007, Email: ruplal@gmail.com) : Cold drink cans contaminated with rat urine can kill. Indian J Microbiol 2009, 49(3), 294.

3 ref

023224   Jadhav V B;Thakare V N;Suralkar A A;Deshpande A D;Naik S R (Pharmacology Dep, Padm Dr D Y patil Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, Pimpri, Pune-411 018, Email: srnaik5@rediffmail.com) : Hepatoprotective activity of Luffa acutangula against CCl₄ and rifampicin induced liver toxicity in rat: a biochemical and histopathological evaluation. Indian J expl Biol 2010, 48(8), 822-9.

Hepatoprotective activity of hydroalcoholic extract of Luffa acutangula (HAELA) against carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄) and rifampicin-induced hepatotoxicity in rats was evaluated and probable mechanism(s) of action has been suggested. Administration of standard drug- silymarin and HAELA showed significant hepatoprotection against CCl₄ and rifampicin induced hepatotoxicity in rats. Hepatoprotective activity of HAELA was due to the decreased levels of serum marker enzymes viz., (AST, ALT, ALP and LDH) and increased total protein including the improvement in histoarchitecture of liver cells of the treated groups as compared to the control group. HAELA also showed significant decrease in malondialdehyde (MDA) formation, increased activity of non-enzymatic intracellular antioxidant, glutathione and enzymatic antioxidants, catalase and superoxide dismutase. Results of this study demonstrated that endogenous antioxidants and inhibition of lipid peroxidation of membrane contribute to hepatoprotective activity of HAELA.

2 illus, 4 tables, 30 ref

023223   Indirabai W P S;Seetha P (Zoology Dep, Holy Cross College (Autonomous), Tiruchirapalli-620 002, Email: prema54wilson@yahoo.co.nz) : Effect of sublethal concentration of endosulfan on some physiological parameters of fresh water fish, Labeo rohita (Hamilton). Bioscan 2009, 4(4), 661-4.

Exposure of the fresh water fish rohu, Labeo rohita to subiethal concentration (0.05 ppm) of endosulfan for a period of 24, 48, 72 and 96 (hrs.) has revealed that the organochlorine pesticide had a profound effect on the rate of oxygen consumption and on blood cells. There was a decrease in the metabolic rate with an increase in the duration of exposure to endosulfan and the metabolic differences between individual fish is significant for parameters tested through student't' test. The total count of TEC decreased and that of TLC increased in endosutfan treated blood sample when compared with that of the control. Endosulfan treated blood cells showed membrane damage, nuclear fragmentation and hypertrophy as well.

1 illus, 6 tables, 28 ref

023222   Ghosh S;Kaushik D K;Gomes J;Nayeem S;Shashank Deep;Basu A (NO, , Ms-620, 5th Floor, Main Bldg., IIT Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi-110 016, Email: sghosh@hss.iitd.ac.in) : Changes in cytosolic Ca<. Indian J expl Biol 2010, 48(6), 529-37.

Neurons and astrocytes differentially express isoenzymes of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), The metabolic consequences for the variations in mRNA expression of LDH isoenzyme subtypes in neurons and astrocytes control cerebral vasoregulation. Moreover, cellular signalling consequences for functional neurovascular control may also be dependent on LDH isoenzyme subtype profiles. Initial computer simulations revealed glutamate-induced calcium waves in connected astrocytes, and showed concomitant changes in the expression of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) and lactic acid metabolism. To validate these findings, the nature and extent of glutamate-dependent signalling crosstalk in murine cell lines were investigated through correlated lactate levels and calcium upregulation. Neuro2A and C8D1A cells were separately treated with timed supernatant extracts from each other and their LDH1 and LDH5 isoenzyme responses were recorded. Western blot analysis showed LDH1/LDH5 isoenzyme ratio in the astrocytes to be positively correlated with Neuro2A-derived lactate levels estimated by the amplitude of 1.33-ppm spectral peak in ^{1H-NMR, and LDH1/LDH5 isoenzyme ratio in neurons is negatively correlated with C8DIA-derived lactate levels. Significant modulations of the calcium-responsive protein pCamKII levels were also observed in both cell lines, particularly correlations between pCamKII and lactate in C8D1A cells, thus explaining the calcium dependence of the lactate response. Together, these observations indicate that lactate is a key indicator of the metabolic state of these cell types, and may be a determinant of release of vasoregulatory factors.}

5 illus, 26 ref

023221   Gayathri M;Kannabiran K (Biomolicules and Genetics Div, School of Biosciences and Technology, VIT Univ, Vellore-632 0114, Email: kkb@vit.ac.in) : Antimicrobial activity of Hemidesmus indicus, Ficus bengalensis and Pterocarpus marsupium roxb. Indian J pharm Sci 2009, 71(5), 578-81.

The antimicrobial activity of Hemidesmus indicus, Ficus bengalensis and Pterocarpus marsupium roxb was evaluated against pathogenic bacteria Stahylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumonia in an in vitro condition. Aqueous extracts from roots of H. indicus and barks of F. bengalensis and P. marspium roxb were tested for antimicrobial activity using the zone of inhibition method and also screened for phytochemicals. The aqueous extract of P. marsupium roxb inhibited growth of bacteria with the minimal inhibitory concentration ranging from 0.04 mg to 0.08 mg and extracts of F. bengalensis and H. indicus showed inhibition at the range of 0.04 mg to 0.1 mg against the bacteria tested. The susceptibility of bacterial pathogens was in the order of S. aureus, K. pneumoniae and P. aeruginosa. The antimicrobial activity of plant extracts was synergistic with antibiotics tested. Results of the present study suggest that the aqueous extracts of H. indicus, F, bengalensis and P. marspium roxb has significant antibacterial activity against pathogenic bacteria.

3 tables, 19 ref

023220   Divya D;Sivakumari V;Sathya Priya R (Environmental and Herbal Sciences Dep, Tamil Univ, Thanjavur, (T.N.)) : Anti iron toxicity and antioxidant effect of Camellia sinensis. Asian J envir Sci 2009, 4(1), 58-61.

The study was carried out to evaluate the anti iron toxic and antioxidant activity effect of Camellia sinensis on ferrous sulphate induced albino rats. The phytochemical activity of Camellia sinensis showed the presence of tannins, alkaloids, flavonoids, steroids, amino acids, reducing sugar and carbohydrate. SGOT (Serum Gluatamate Oxaloacetate Transminase), SGPT (Serum Gluatamate Py ruvate Transminase), Gamma Glutamyl Trasferase (GGT), MDA (malonaldehyde), SOD (Superoxide Dismutase) were also estimated. The result indicated that ethanol extract of Camellia sinensis to ferrous sulphate induced rats decreased the level of SGPT froin iron intoxication.

7 tables, 22 ref

023219   Chandra A K;Sinha S;Choudhury S R (Endocrinology and Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Physiology Dep, Univ College of Science and Technology, Calcutta Univ, 92, Acharya Prafulla Chandra Road, Kolkata-700 009, Email: amark_chandra@yahoo.co.in) : Thyroxine induced stress an its possible prevention by catechin. Indian J expl Biol 2010, 48(6), 559-65.

Free radicals are all known to damage cell components. The present study was designed to evaluate the free radical generation in the testis and liver and also to determine the testicular and hepatic antioxidant enzyme activities with and without catechin administration in thyroxine induced male Sprague-Dawley rats. The experimental animals were divided into four groups, six on each division. L-thyroxine (T₄) (0.3 mg/kg body weight) was administered to experimental groups for 15 days. Another group (CAT-T₄) was administered with L-thyroxine (T₄) in the dose as mentioned and catechin (lOOmg/kg of body weight/day) simultaneously. Third group was administered only with catechin, and the remaining group was kept as control. Lipid peroxidation level (LPO) increased in L-thyroxine treated rats as compared to control, while LPO level was almost normal in L-thyroxine (T₄) and catechin (CAT-T₄) treated group. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase activities were increased in L-thyroxine (T₄) treated rats as compared to control, where as there were almost at normal level in L-thyroxine (T₄) and catechin (CAT-T₄) treated groups. The results show that, thyroxine administration develops oxidative stress; the organism defends it against the effects of oxidative stress by increasing SOD and catalase activities as a protective mechanism and catechin, being an antioxidant, normalizes lipid peroxidation in testis and liver including SOD and catalase activities.

2 tables, 51 ref

023218   Bijaya T;Ramachandra N B (Unit on Evolution and Genetics, Drosophila Stock Center, Studies in Zoology Dep, Mysore Univ, Manasagangotri, Mysore-570 006, Email: nallurbr@gmail.com) : Racial divergence of rare laboratory evolved centromeric fission cytorace of Nasuta albomicans complex of Drosophila. Indian J expl Biol 2010, 48(5), 511-7.

Fissioncytorace-1, a member of the nasuta-albomicans complex of Drosophila is an evolutionary product of centric fission, which had occurred in the chromosome X3 of Cytorace 1, a hydridization product of Drosophila nasuta nasuta male (2n=8) and Drosophila nasuta albomicans female (2n=6). Cytorace 1 (males 2n=7; females 2n=6) has inherited this chromosome from its D. n. albomicans parent. The chromosome X3 of D. n. albomicans is a derivative of a centric fusion between the acrocentric chromosome 3 and the chromosome X of D. n. nasuta. The Fissioncytorace-1 has crossed 200 generations from the time of its evolution in the laboratory environment. When this centromeric fission race was subjected to some of the morphophenotypic and fitness assessment to find its overall population fitness showed, increased body size, sternopleural bristle, ovarioles, lifetime fecundity and fertility with reduced interspecific competitive ability and hatching success when compared with its parent (Cytorace 1), These results suggest that the hybrid races must have encountered an early event of recombinational raciation during their evolution in the laboratory environment, which is a unique observation in animal system illustrating the increase in the tempo of evolution after the event of hybridization.

2 illus, 2 tables, 38 ref

023217   Bhor S;Ray R R (Microbiology Laboratory, Post Graduate Zoology Dep, Molecular Biology and Genetics, Presidency, 86/1 College Street, Kolkata-700 073, Email: rina_ray64@rediff.com) : Production of endoxylanase by a strain of streptomyces in submerged fermentation of dried grass. Bioscan 2009, 4(4), 675-78.

Endoxylanase (E.G.3.2.1.8) converting xylan to xylose is an enzyme of immense industrial importance. In the present study, a highly active extra cellular endoxylanase producing strain of Streptomyces sp OM 09 was isolated from soil of M.P, India. The strain was able to ferment various hemicellulosic wastes like rice husk, sugar cane bagasse, dried grass etc of which the dried grass dust (1% w/v) acted as the best inducer for enzyme production in submerged condition. About 5.4 times increase in enzyme production was found when pure oat spelt xylan (Sigmal was replaced by dried grass dust. Although the strain showed growth at a temperature range of 20°-42°C, the best temperature for endoxylanase production was 37°C. The optimum time course and pH for maximum enzyme production were 72 hrs and 7.0 respectively. The enzyme production was enhanced in presence of divalent ions (K^{+ and Mn2+) and ammonium chloride as nitrogen source.}

4 illus, 5 tables, 11 ref

023216   Bhartiya U S;Joseph L J;Raut Y S;Rao B S (Radiation Medicine Centre, Bio-Medical Group, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, c/o Tata Memorial Hospital Annexe, Parel, Mumbai-400 012, Email: umapat@yahoo.com) : Effect of Ocimum sanctum, turmeric extract and vitamin E supplementation on the salivary gland and bone marrow of radioiodine exposed mice. Indian J expl Biol 2010, 48(6), 566-71.

Significant increase in the salivary gland weight was observed after exposure to single therapeutic dose of 3.7 MBq of ^{131I in mice. Pre-supplementation of antioxidants, O. sanctum leaf extract, turmeric extract and vitamin E for 15 days before 131I exposure demonstrated significant reduction in the salivary gland weight. No major histopathological changes were observed in the salivary gland of experimental animals at 24 h of exposure. Micronuclei index in the bone marrow of polychromatic (PCEs) and normochromatic erythrocytes (NCEs) remained unchanged in all the experimental groups. However, PCE/NCE ratio in the bone marrow decreased significantly in all the 131I exposed animals irrespective of antioxidant supplementation status. The normalization of salivary gland weight by antioxidant pre-supplementation in radioiodine exposed mice is suggestive of the possible ameliorating effect of antioxidants on the salivary gland weight recommending further detailed studies regarding the functional aspect of the salivary gland in higher animals.}

1 illus, 1 table, 35 ref

023215   Barua C C;Talukdar A;Begum S A;Lahon L C; Sarma D K;Pathak D C;Borah P (Pharmacology and Toxicology Dep, College of Veterinary Science, Assam Agricultural Univ, Khanapara, Guwahati-781 022, Email: chanacin@gmail.com) : Antinociceptive activity of methanolic extract of leaves of Achyranthes aspera Linn. (Amaranthaceae) in animal models of nociception. Indian J expl Biol 2010, 48(8), 817-21.

Antinociceptive activity of methanolic extract of leaves of A. aspera was studied by peripheral/non-narcotic model of nociception like acetic acid induced writhing syndrome test and central/narcotic models like hot plate and tail flick tests. The methanolic extract of the plant, administered orally (@ 300, 600 and 900 mg/kg, body weight) and the standard drug (piroxicam; 10 mg/kg body weight, po) produced significant analgesic activity in acetic acid induced writhing syndrome as compared to the vehicle treated control group. In the hot plate analgesic test, in A. aspera at the above doses and the standard drug treated group (morphine sulphate @ 1.5 mg/kg, ip), the duration of reaction time (sec) increased dose dependently and significantly compared to the control group. In the tail flick test, the plant extract produced dose dependant increase in reaction time which was significantly higher in the test and standard group compared to the control group. The plant possesses significant antinociceptive property as evidenced in all the animal models of nociception. It might possibly exert its effect through diverse mechanism that may involve both central and peripheral pathways. The preliminary phytochemical investigation revealed the presence of steroids, alkaloids and triterpene in the methanolic extract of leaves of A. aspera which may be responsible for its antinociceptive activity.

1 table, 27 ref

023214   Arunkumar S;Sivkumar V;Baskar N V; Senthilkumar S (NO, Marudhu Pandiyar, Tiruvarur, (T.N.)) : Lipase productivity of Pseudomonas aeroginosa and Staphylococcus aereus using cheap substrates. Asian J envir Sci 2009, 4(1), 73-7.

In the study the lipase-producing organisms were isolated from the soil sample using olive oil containing medium. The isolates were identified based on the morphological and biochemical characteristics. The isolated Pseudomonas aeroginosa and Staphylococcus aereus were inoculated into inoculum medium and incubated at 37°C for 24hours used as the inoculum. The inoculums mixed with fermentative substrate like molasses and soybean, after incubation, the lipase was estimated. High lipase activity was observed in Pseudomonas aeroginosa inoculated medium. Maximum productivity was noted in pH 7 and temperature 35-40°C. Lipase productivity was maximum in the immobilized cell (0.49± 0.11 u/ml/min).

4 tables, 21 ref

023213   Anuradha S;Rudrama Devi K (Human Genetics Lab, Zoology Dep, Osmania Univ, Hyderabad-500 017, Email: s_anuradha26@yahoo.co.in) : Cytogenetic analysis of impact of cisplatin on germ cells of mice. Bioscan 2009, 4(4), 641-4.

Cis-Dichlorodiamminopiatinum-H (cis-DDP) has been widely used as an anticancer chemotherapeutic agent. The genotoxidty of Cis-DDP was investigated in vivo using analysis of chromosomal aberrations. The drug was tested at three differed doses 2.5, 5 and 10mg/kg body weight of CDDP was injected intraperitoneally to evaluate the genotoxic effects of the drug. Chromosomal aberrations were examined at diakinesis-metaphase 1 of rnetosis. Significant increases in chromosomal aberrations were observed. At the highest dose the affected cells carried multiple aberrations, showing a clear dose-response relation between CA's and cis-DDP concentration in meiotic (germ) cells of mice when compared with control values.

2 tables, 37 ref

023212   Anilakumar R K;Sudarshanakrishna K R; Chandramohan G;Ilaiyaraja N;Khanum F;Bawa A S (NO, Defence Food Research Laboratory, Mysore-570 011, Email: anilakumarkar@gmail.com) : Effect of Aloe vera gel extract on antioxidant enzymes and azoxymethane-induced oxidative stress in rats. Indian J expl Biol 2010, 48(8), 837-42.

The work was undertaken with a view to study the effect of oral feeding of 2% Aloe vera gel extract (AGE) for 30 days on azoxymethane (AOM)-induced oxidative stress in rats. It was observed that AOM administration resulted in a significant increase in malondialdehyde and conjugated dienes, with reduction in hepatic glutathione (GSH), vitamin A and uric acid contents. AOM-induced reduction in hepatic GSH and uric acid was brought back to normal by AGE. There was a significant raise in hepatic catalase, superoxide dismutase and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G-6-PD) activities as a result of feeding of the extract. Ingestion of the extract effected reduction in AOM-induced colonic GSH-peroxidase, G-6-PD and glutathione S-transferase and femur bone marrow micronuclei formation. Hence, it is suggested that Aloe vera gel extract possess the ability to reduce AOM- induced oxidative stress and toxicity in liver.

4 tables, 41 ref

023211   Alsaadawi I S;Dayan F E (Biology Dep, College of Science, Baghdad Univ, Baghdad, Iraq, Email: ibrahimalsadawi@yahoo.com) : Potentials and prospects of sorghum allelopathy in agroecosystems. Allelopathy J 2009, 24(2), 255-70.

Promising allelopathic potential of sorghum [Sorghum bicolor L. (Moench)] opens a fruitful area of research to exploit this phenomenon in weed control and regulation of nutrients cycle. The data suggests that sorghum allelopathy can be exploited in different cropping practices [cover crop, smother crop, companion crop, mixing crop and smother crop to control weeds and inhibition of nitrification] and application of its water extracts in fields controls the weeds and enhances the crops productivity. The herbicidal and allelopathic properties of sorgoleone, a compound isolated from root exudates of sorghum and other allelochemicals in sorghum deserve further work to identify the enzymes responsible for the biosynthesis of these compounds and the genes encoding them. Besides there is need to use genetic engineering to manipulate the identified genes in sorghum or in other crops to enhance their ability to suppress the weeds. This review addresses the research on the role of allelopathic potential in different cropping systems and the approaches developed in weeds management.

2 illus, 7 tables, 80 ref

023210   Alipour M;Gargari S L M;Rasooli I (Biology Dep, Faculty of Science, Shahed Univ, Tehran, Iran, Email: slmousavi@shahed.ac.ir) : Cloning, expression and immunogenicity of ferric enterobactin binding protein FepB from Escherichia coli O157:H7. Indian J Microbiol 2009, 49(3), 266-70.

The gene coding for ferric enterobactin binding protein from E. coli O157:H7 was amplified. This gene was cloned and expressed as C-terminal His (6)-tagged protein. The SDS-PAGE analysis of the total protein revealed only two distinct bands, with molecular masses of 31 kDa and 34kDa. The Ni-NTA chromatography purified FepB and the osmotically shocked periplasmic fraction of IPTG induced cells showed only a single band of 31 kDa. Polyclonal mouse antibody was raised against the recombinant protein during 4 weeks after immunization. Western blot analysis of the recombinant FepB with mouse antiserum revealed a single band of 31 kDa. Identification and purification of FepB helped reveal its appropriate molecular mass. Polyclonal antibody raised against The recombinant protein reacted with bacterial FepB. The recombinant protein FepB could have a protective effect against E. coli O157:H7 and might be useful as an effective vaccine.

1 illus, 14 ref

023209   Ali S N;Akhtar M;Pandey A K (Biological Research Lab, Botany Dep, Kutir P.G. College, Chakkey, Jaunpur (U.P.)) : Phytoplankton diversity in the river Gomti at Jaunpur (U.P.). Asian J envir Sci 2009, 4(1), 78-80.

Deals with an ecological study with special reference to phytoplankton (algal) component river Gomti in Jaunpur City. The phytoplankton (algal) community of river was represented by four algal group viz., Cyanophyceae, Chlorophyceae, Euglenophyceae and Bacillariophyceae. Out of 44 algal species, 16 species of Cyanophyceae and Chlorophyceae, 1 species of Euglenophyceae and 11 species of Bacillariophyceae were recorded from different sites of the river. Phytoplankton population showed a positive correlation with pH, DO, alkalinity, phosphate and nitrate and negative correlation with temperature and chloride. Many of the algal species, of the total 44 reported from the river like Aulosira, Microcystis, Oscillaloria, Chlamydomonas, Chlorella, Pediastrum, Euglena, Cyelotella, Nevicula, Nitzschia were recognised as pollution indicators. The main source of the river were discharges of municipal and industrial water, human excreta agricultural run off and burning of corpse.

3 tables, 19 ref

023208   Ahmad S N (Architecture Dep, Town and Regional Planning Bangal Engineering and Science Univ, Shibpur, West Bangal) : Status of food security in Koil tehsil of Aligarh district a household level analysis. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2007, 30(1), 67-76.

Food is one of the basic human needs and it is indispensable for survival of life, yet million of people in the world are suffering from problems of hunger and starvation. As far as India is concerned, it has achieved self sufficiency in food production and has large buffer stock of almost 60 million food grains. However, 47 percent of its total population is malnourished. It is interesting to note that very little work has been done on households food security in India at micro level. Keeping this point in mind, the present study has been attempted to identify food insecure at household level. The present study reveals that the study area despite being one of the agriculturally developed regions of Uttar Pradesh, having surplus food grains production has very high percentage of food insecure households (40%) in terms of caloric intake and (42%) as regards food grains availability. Most of the members of these food insecure households are either marginal farmes or poor landless labourers mainly depending on casual labour for their livelihood and largely belong to scheduled casts, other backward cast or backward Muslim population.

5 illus, 6 tables, 24 ref

023207   Adhikari S K (NO, Ghusuri Uchcha Madyamik Vidyalya (High), West Bengal) : Megaliths tell many physiological myths. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2007, 30(1), 53-8.

The megalith appears in archaeological vocabulary in about middle of nineteenth century. Terminology is derived from the Greek words megas (great) and lithos (stone). With discovery of great-stone constructions, it represents an interdisciplinary interest in Geology, Anthropology, Mythology, folklore, Philology, Paleography, Ethnology, prehistoric and neo-primitive art, prehistoric and classical scholarship, Biology, Botany, Geochemistry, Nuclear Physics a host of other logies and arts. Each branch of learning has, of course, a bias towards its own special interests which may bring about a conflict of ideas. Megaliths are usually known as astro-archaeological objects but it would be better to all of them as archaeo-astronomical objects intertwined with immense scientific interest. Archaeological records reveal that civilizations in immediate prehistoric period developed in several centres, such as : Sumer, Egypt, Anatolia, Indus Valley, Shang China, Middle America, Peru etc. Megalithic culture began nearly 4000 BC i.e. in the upper Neolithic period (4000 BC to 2000 BC) of human civilization. This paper deals with some of those Megaliths which relate to physiology and astronomy.

8 illus, 7 ref

022330   Yadav C S;Kumar V;Suke S G;Ahmed R S; Mediratta P K;Banerjee B D (Biochemistry Dep, Univ College of Medical Sciences and GTB Hospital, Delhi Univ, Dilshad Garden, New Delhi-110 095, Email: banerjeebd@hotmail.com) : Propoxur-induced acetylcholine esterase inhibition and impairment of cognitive function: attenuation by Withania somnifera. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2010, 47(2), 117-20.

Propoxur (2-isopropoxyphenyl N-methylcarbamate) is widely used as an acaricide in agriculture and public health programs. Studies have shown that sub-chronic exposure to propoxur can cause oxidative stress and immune-suppression in rats. Carbamates an also known to exhibit inhibitory effect on cholinesterase activity, which is directly related to their cholinergic effects. In the present study, the effect of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha), a widely used herbal drug possessing anti-stress and immuno-modulatory properties was studied on propoxur-induced acelylcholine esterase inhibition and impairment of cognitive function in rats. Male Wistar rats were divided into four groups. Group I was treated with olive oil and served as control. Group II was administered orally with propoxur (10 mg/kg b.wt.) in olive oil, group III received a combination of propoxur (10 mg/kg b.wt.) and W. somnifera (100 mg/kg b.wt.) suspension and group IV W. somnifera (100 mg/kg b.wt.) only. All animals were treated for 30 days. Cognitive behaviour was assessed by transfer latency using elevated plus maze. Blood and brain acetylcholine esterase (AChE) activity was also assessed. Oral administration of propoxur (10 mg/kg b.wt.) resulted in a significant reduction of brain and blood AChE activity. A significant prolongation of the acquisition as well as retention transfer latency was observed in propoxur-treated rats. Oral treatment of W. somnifera exerts protective effect and attenuates AChE inhibition and cognitive impairment caused by sub-chronic exposure to propoxur.

^ssc2 illus, 22 ref

022329   Vishnu Kumar;et al. (Biochemistry Dep, Era's Lucknow Medical College & Hospital, Lucknow-226 001, Email: singhrk22a@hotmail.com) : Hypolipidemic and antioxidant activity of Anthocephalus indicus (Kadam) root extract. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2010, 47(2), 104-9.

The study was carried out to explore the anti-diabetic, anti-dyslipoproteinemic and anti-oxidant activities of Anthocephalus indicus root extract in alloxan-induced (150 mg/kg body wt.) diabetic rats. A marked increase in plasma levels of glucose and lipid peroxides accompanied with an elevation in the lipids and apoprotein levels of serum very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) and low density lipoprotein (LDL) following decrease in lipid and protein constituents of high density lipoprotein (HDL) were observed. The alterations in lipoprotein pattern was associated with inhibition of lipolytic and antioxidant enzymes. Oral administration of root extract (500 mg/kg body wt.) for 30 days in dyslipidemic animals resulted in significant decrease in plasma glucose, total cholesterol, phospholipids, triglyceride and lipid peroxides. The decrease of lipids and apoprotein levels of VLDL and LDL were followed by stimulation of plasma post-heparin lipolytic activity and lecithin cholesterol acyltransferase as well as hepatic superoxide dismutase and catalase activities. Lipid and apoprotein levels of HDL were also recovered partially on treatment with root extract.

4 tables, 43 ref

022328   Tanwar R S;Sharma S B;Singh U R;Prabhu K M (Biochemistry Dep, GTB Hospital, College of Medical Sciences, Delhi Univ, Delhi, Email: drsbs08@hotmail.com) : Attenuation of renal dysfunction by anti-hyperglycemic compound isolated from fruit pulp of Eugenia jambolana in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2010, 47(2), 83-9.

The renal protective effect of an active principle isolated from the aqueous extract of fruit pulp of Eugenia jambolana was investigated in streptozotocin (45 mg/kg body weight)-induced severely diabetic rats (FBG ≥ 300 mg/dl). For isolation of active principle, crude aqueous extract of E. jambolana fruit pulp was subjected to purification by ion-exchange column chromatography, which yielded a partially purified compound (FII), which on further purification by rechromatography gave a purified active compound (FlIc). Purity of FlIc was confirmed by high pressure liquid chromatography. Detailed UV, NMR, IR spectra suggested that FlIc is a small aliphatic organic compound having molecular formula C_-4H₇O_-4N. Oral administration of FlIc to diabetic rats (10, 15 and 20 mg/kg body weight per day for a period of 60 days) produced significant (P<0.001) fall in fasting blood glucose (FBG) in a dose-dependent manner. Treatment with FlIc (15 mg/kg body wt.) showed significant (P<0.001) improvement in body weight, blood urea, plasma creatinine levels, urinary volume, urinary sugar and microalbuminuria. Renal hypertrophy, assessed as the ratio of the weight of the two kidneys to total body weight was also significantly (P<0.05) improved after treatment with FlIc. The above results suggest that FlIc possesses significant nephroprotective activity.

2 illus, 4 tables, 45 ref

022327   Subhashini D V;Ramkrishnan S;Padmaja K (NO, Microbiology Central Tabacco Research Institute, Rajahmundry-533 105, Email: dv_subhashini@rediffmail.com) : Effect of cultute filtrates of Streptomyces spp. on the mortality and hatching of root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne javanica. Indian J Nematol 2009, 39(2), 188-91.

Six isolates of Streptomyces spp. were isolated from the rhizosphere of tobacco fields in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. Culture filtrates of all six isolates of Streptomyces spp. showed lethal effect against M. javanica at different levels. Percentage mortality and inhibitory effect on hatching of M. javanica were directly proportional to the concentration of culture filtrates and exposure period of each filtrate. Rate of mortality was low in the first 24 h but it appreciably increased with the increase in exposure period. Different dilutions of Streptomyces culture filtrates of all the isolates were hatch inhibitors to a varying degree. Isolate 2 was found to be more effective among all isolates followed by isolate 5 in both mortality and hatching inhibition. There was a relative decrease in larval emergence with the corresponding increase in the concentration of culture filtrates.

2 tables, 13 ref