019019   Shanmugam K R;Ramakrishna C H;Mallikarjuna K; Sathyavelu Reddy K (Molecular Biology and Exercise Physiology Div, Zoology Dep, Sri Venkateswara University, Tirupati-517 502, Email: sathyakreddy@hotmail.com) : Protective effect of ginger against alcohol-induced renal damage and antioxidant enzymes in male albino rats. Indian J expl Biol 2010, 48(2), 143-9.

Superoxide dismutase, ascorbic acid, glutathione and uric acid levels were decreased and xanthine oxidase, glutathione-s-transferase activities were increased in alcohol treated (2 g/kg body weight, once daily for 30 days) group. However, treatment with ethanolic extract of ginger (100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg body weight, po, once daily for 30 days) these parameters came to normalcy showing the antioxidant effect of ginger. The antioxidant compounds of ginger may modulate the oxidative stress parameters. The biochemical findings were supplemented by histopathological examination of the kidney. Severe congestion and degenerative changes in tubules in alcohol treated rats were restored by ginger extract treatment. The results confirm the renal protective effect of ginger in alcohol treated rats.

7 illus, 46 ref

019018   Satish V;Ravichandrian V D;Gavani U;Paarakh P M (Pharmacognosy Dep, The Oxford College of Pharmacy, J.P. Nagar, I. Phase, Bangalore-560 078) : Antimicrobial studies on the extracts of Cocculus hirsutus Linn. and Hyptis suaveolens Poit. Indian J nat prod Resour 2010, 1(1), 49-52.

Extracts of Cocculus hirsutus Linn. and Hyptis suaveolens Poit. were screened for their in vitro antimicrobial activity by agar disc diffusion method. The antimicrobial activity of petroleum ether, chloroform, methanol and aqueous extracts of the leaves of these plants were studied using Staphylococcus aureus, Listeria monocytogenes, Escherichia coli, Serratia marcescens and Aspergillus flavus as test organisms. Petroleum ether extracts of C. hirsutus and H. suaveolens were found to be more effective against Escherichia coli and Serratia marcescens and Aspergillus flavus, respectively when compared to other extracts of both the plants. Phytochemical screening of the petroleum ether extract of C. hirsutus and H. suaveolens revealed the presence of alkaloids and steroids, respectively which suggests that these phytoconstituents may be responsible for their antimicrobial activity.

2 illus, 3 tables, 15 ref

019017   Sarma S K;Saikia M (Botany Dep, Gauhati University, Gauhati-781 014, Email: drskverma@prontomail.com) : Utilization of wetland resources by the rural people of Nagaon district, Assam. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2010, 9(1), 145-51.

Man's dependence and association with the wetlands is an important aspect, as people get benefited by using its resources. Nagaon district of Assam is located in the flood plains of the river Brahmaputra. The study has been conducted to assess the economic benefits derived from the wetland resources by the rural people of the district and also to assess their socio-religious and cultural attachment with these wetlands. Fifty three plant species were found to have utilization for various purposes like medicine (32), vegetables (9), fruits (6), fodder (9), biofertilizer (3), small scale industries (7), religious functions (5), etc. Nymphaeaceae was found to be the largest family containing maximum number of species having utilization of the people from the study area. The fishermen completely depend on fish resource of these wetlands. Such resourceful wetlands of the district have been found to degrade gradually due to anthropogenic activities like, encroachment, residential and commercial developments, dumping the garbage and wastes in the wetlands, etc. Therefore, appropriate measures should be adopted to conserve and save these important wetlands of the district.

11 illus, 1 table, 7 ref

019016   Sajem A L;Gosai K (Botany Dep, Haflong Government College, Haflong-788 819, Email: albertsajem@gmail.com) : Ethnobotanical investigations among the Lushai tribes in North Cachar Hills district of Assam, Northeast India. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2010, 9(1), 108-13.

Traditional use of plants from the Northeastern part of India has been documented for decades' altogether. The ethnic community still depend upon their indigenous knowledge for healing their ailments (both intrinsic and extrinsic). The study documents the usage of 31 medicinal plant species belonging to 26 families and 31 genera by the indigenous Lushai tribes of Northeast India. The study was done through structured questionnaires in consultations with the tribal practitioners. The use of aboveground plant parts was higher (79.06%) than the underground plant parts (20.93%). Leaf was used in the majority of cases (23 species), followed by fruit (4). However, different underground plant forms such as root, tuber, rhizome, bulb and pseudo-bulb were also found to be in use by the Lushai tribe as a medicine. About 41 types of ailments have been reported to be cured by using these 31 medicinal plant species. The study thus emphasizes the need to pursue meticulous ethnobotanical research in finding solutions to major fatal diseases and ensure its application in improving human health and medical care facilities.

2 illus, 1 table, 37 ref

019015   Romanski K W (Clinical Physiology Lab, Biostructure and Physiology Dep, Faculty of, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Norwida 31, 50-375 Wroclaw, Poland, Email: krzysztof.romanski@up.wroc.pl) : Characteristics of phase 3-like activity and rebound excitation triggered by hexamethonium and atropine administration in the ovine small bowel. Indian J expl Biol 2010, 48(2), 124-32.

Administration of hexamethonium (Hx) and atropine inhibits myoelectric and motor activity and then evokes a stimulatory effect called rebound excitation (RE) in the ovine small bowel. RE has not been precisely characterized so far and it is possible that it is composed of different types of motility. The study was thus devoted to characterizing these excitatory changes in the myoelectric and motor activity of the small bowel, particularly in the duodenum in conscious sheep. These alterations occurred in response to different intravenous doses of Hx and atropine administered alone or in combinations during various phases of the migrating myoelectric or motor complex (MMC) in the fasted and non-fasted sheep. Initially two basic types of excitatory response to the cholinergic blockade were found. In the course of chronic experiments different doses of Hx and atropine evoked phase 3-like activity (unorganized phase 3 of the MMC or its fragments) alternating with the less regular RE and the duration of these changes was related to the drug dose. In the non-fasted sheep these changes were less pronounced than in the fasted animals. When the drug was given during phase 1 of the MMC, RE did not occur or was greatly reduced. Administration of Hx and atropine in the course of phase 2a and phase 2b of the MMC produced roughly similar effects. Hx triggered stronger phase 3-like activity and RE than atropine. Combinations of Hx and atropine induced an additive effect, more evident in the fasted animals. These actions of Hx and atropine, thus, appear to involve at least partly the same intramural pathways. It is concluded that Hx and atropine evoke phase 3-like activity alternating with RE as the secondary stimulatory response in conscious sheep and both these types of the intestinal motility represent two distinct motility patterns.

4 illus, 2 tables, 40 ref

019014   Ranjan A (NO, Shyam Institute, 82, Aradhana Nagar, Bhopal-462 003, Email: aranjan@hotmail.com) : Age and sex structure of tribal populataion in central India. Tribal Hlth Bull 2007, 12(1-2), 1-17.

Using the age and sex information about the tribal population of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh available from the 2001 population census, this paper highlights the dissimilarity between the age and sex structure of the tribal population of Chhattisgarh with that of Madhya Pradesh as well as between the tribal and non-tribal population of Madhya Pradesh. Although the age and sex data available from the 2001 population census appears to be inaccurate to highly inaccurate, yet the analysis reflects the essential dissimilarity in the age and sex composition of the tribal population in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh and in the tribal and non-tribal population of Madhya Pradesh. The observed dissimilarity in age and sex structure is the result of the difference in the pace of demographic transition and different patterns of migration that has taken place in the tribal population of the two states in the past as well as between tribal and non-tribal populations. The analysis presented here indicates that the health and family welfare status of the tribal population in Madhya Pradesh is poorer than the health and family welfare status of the non-tribal population. One can also visualise a similar situation in Chhattisgarh also. In the light of the present analysis, it would be interesting to explore the determinants of health and family welfare among tribal and non-tribal populations.

6 tables, 14 ref

019013   Patro N;Nagayach A;Patro I K (NO, School of Studies in Neuroscience, Jiwaji University, Gwalior-474 011, Email: ishanpatro@gmail.com) : Iba1 expressing microglia in the dorsal root ganglia become activated following peripheral nerve injury in rats. Indian J expl Biol 2010, 48(2), 110-16.

Presence of microglia in dorsal root ganglia (DRG) has not been reported earlier. The dorsal root ganglia contain satellite glial cells (SGCs) and macrophages, which are considered to have infiltrated from the systemic blood. An attempt was made to investigate whether microglia as found in the central nervous system are also present in the dorsal root ganglia of untreated rats and following experimental peripheral nerve injury. Female adult Wistar rats were subjected to sciatic nerve transection injury on the right hand side. The DRGs of the right side were studied with the contralateral DRGs of the left side serving as controls. The tissues, harvested at different time points after injury, following intracardial perfusion fixation, and frozen sections were immunolabeled with anti-GFAP as a marker for SGCs and anti-Iba1 and OX-6 as markers for microglia and activated macrophagic microglia, respectively. These antibodies were also used in combination to ascertain if Iba1+ cells are the SGCs or otherwise and also if macrophagic OX-6+ cells are Iba1 positive microglia. The results indicate that Iba1 positive microglial cells are different from the SGCs in the DRGs. The Iba1 positive microglial cells respond to the sciatic nerve injury becoming activated and macrophagic and express MHCII molecules. Such activated microglia apparently may serve as neurosupportive cells, providing neuroprotection and scavenging cellular debris in response to the injury.

2 illus, 40 ref

019012   Patro I K;Amit;Shrivastava M;Bhumika S;Patro N (NO, School of Studies in Neuroscience, Jiwaji University, Gwalior-474 011, Email: ishanpatro@rediffmail.com) : Poly I:C induced microglial activation impairs motor activity in adult rats. Indian J expl Biol 2010, 48(2), 104-9.

Polyinosinic:polycytidic acid (poly I:C) is a synthetic double stranded RNA, which mimics with viral genome and mediates immune activation response similar to double stranded RNA virus infection into the brain. Microglial cells are the immune competent cells of the central nervous system having Toll like receptors-3 on their surface. Upon establishing that poly I:C infusion into the brain causes microgliosis by creating a viral infection model, the study was designed to evaluate the effects of microglial activation following poly I:C infusion on motor activity. Authors infused 100μl of 1% solution of Poly I:C in TBE buffer directly into the lateral ventricle and TBE buffer as vehicle to controls. A significantly higher microglial cell count as compared to control on 2, 3 and 7 days post infusion was recorded. Motor activity and microglial cell count was assessed in both controls and poly I:C infused rats on 1,2,3,7,14,21 and 28 days post infusion. A significant decrease in motor activity and motor coordination occurred with respect to control. The results clearly demonstrate that microglial activation has a direct relevance with decreased motor activity. Findings could also have their importance in understanding the role of microglial cells on behavioral aspects in viral diseases.

4 illus, 35 ref

019011   Patel K B (Biology Dep, Sheth M.N. Science College, Patan-383 265) : Traditional methods to assess bird damage to maize crop in Sabarkantha district. Pl Archs 2010, 10(1), 233-4.

To evaluate various methods to assess the damage of birds to maize crop (Zea mays L.) belong to family Poaceae. Damages inflicted by harmful birds can be reduced using a very effective, cheap and pollution free methods of maize crop protection. Provides a brief description of these non-lethal methods viz., visual, auditory etc. Lethal methods of bird management are not recommended these days.

9 ref

019010   Marak N R (Food Science & Nutrition Dep, College of Home Science, Central Agricultural University, Tura, Meghalaya-794 001, Email: natasha.marak@gmail.com) : Food habits of the Garo tribe of Meghalaya. Tribal Hlth Bull 2007, 13(1-2), 42-9.

The nutritional status of a community is the sum of the nutritional status of the individuals who form that community. The study was carried out in all the three districts of Garo Hills. Hundred samples in the age group of 20-30 yrs were randomly selected from six villages. In the study it was revealed that the Gams were shorter and weighed less compared to their Indian counterparts. It was also observed that farming was the major occupation of the people. The staple food of the Gams was rice. The study revealed a high consumption of rice, roots & tubers and meat. Intake of green leafy vegetables, milk and fats/oils were lesser than the recommended allowance. It was seen that the Gams consumed adequate amounts of calories, protein, carbohydrate and vitamin C. Their diet was however deficit in vitamin A and iron. The consumption of meat and oil increased with an increase in family income. Soda based dishes were a part of the Gam custom. This leads to destruction of nutrients in the diet. The Gams consumed three meals a day consisting of rice and a dish. The traditional practices and customs of the Gams are deep rooted like any other tribal society. Mass awareness and intervention by various governmental agencies is needed to combat ignorance and faulty food habits.

6 tables, 9 ref

019009   Manju Rani;Sharma R K (Economics Dep, Government Degre College, Chhaprauli, Baghpat, Uttar Pradesh, Email: ranimanju@gmail.com) : Socioeconomic and demographic characteristics of tribes of Uttarakhand, India. Tribal Hlth Bull 2007, 13(1-2), 23-41.

The tribes comprise the most neglected section of our society, who have been economically exploited and socially discriminated for ages. This embarrassing situation has been largely responsible for their current abject poverty, illiteracy and overall backwardness. The intensity of problems of different tribes can be understood from their socio-economic and demographic profiles. Socioeconomic differences between different tribal communities also bring out some insights of existing poverty and disparities. The paper discusses the social, economical and demographic aspects of Scheduled Tribes of Uttrakhand state. The state of Uttrakhand was created by combining the hilly districts of Uttar Pradesh in November 2000. There are five different notified tribes of Uttarakhand and all these tribes were enumerated in Census 2001. The total population of Uttarakhand state was 84.89 lakhs and out of which 2.56 lakhs (3%) was tribal population as per Census 2001. The Tharu is the largest tribe of Uttrakhand, which account for one-third of total tribal population, followed by Jannsari (32.5%), Buksa (18.3), Bhotia tribes (14.2). Ranji tribe is the least in number. Most of the tribes are residing in rural areas (93.8%), however, about one-fourth of Bhotia's tribal p'opulation is living in urban areas. Majority of tribal population inhabit in four districts, viz. Udham Singh Nagar (43%), Dehradun (38.8%), Pithoragarh (7.5%) and Chamoli (4.1%) only. The sex ratio among scheduled tribes of Uttrakhand (950) is considerably poor as compared to the national average of Scheduled Tribes (978) in India. However, Bhotias registered more females than males (1049) and Ranjis have least females (833). In year 2001, about 63% of tribal population of Uttrakhand state was literate as compared to 72.0% of state average. But literacy was relatively much higher among Bhotia (86.4%) and Tharu (82.3%) tribes. Overall, Ranjis are the most socio-economic deprived tribe in the state.

4 illus, 10 tables, 25 ref

019008   Manimegalai K;Dhivya R; Dhanalakshmi D (NO, Avinashilingam University for Women, Coimbatore-641 043, Email: manijeysu@gmail.com) : Larvicidal activity of leaf and seed of Datura metal on the mosquito, Culex quinquefasciatus. Pl Archs 2010, 10(1), 245-7.

Pilot study was conducted on the fourth instar larvae of Culex quinquefasciatus using petroleum ether, chlorororm and ethanol extracts of leaf and seed of the selected plant to assess the effective doses for plant. In higher concentrations of leaf extracts a total mortality of 90% was observed in petroleum ether and ethanol extracts. In seed extract, maximum larval mortality recorded was 95% in 260 ppm and 90% in 280 ppm of ethanol extract at 96h and 90% in 300 ppm of petroleum ether extract at 72 h.

2 tables, 13 ref

019007   Khan N;Usha Ram (NO, International Institute for Population Sciences (IIP), Mumbai, Email: iipsnizam@yahoo.com) : Spousal perspectives on fertility preferences: differentials in ideal family size. Tribal Hlth Bull 2007, 13(1-2), 64-82.

Spousal perspectives on fertility preferences were investigated in a probability sample of 418 young married couples in Ratlam district of Madhya Pradesh, India. Findings reveal that the reported ideal family size is higher among husbands than their wives. In terms of reporting the ideal family size, the non-numeric ('up to God/can't say') responses are mentioned more by wives, especially those who are illiterate and belong to the lowest wealth quintile. Findings from multivariate analysis reveal that the number of surviving children is significantly associated with ideal family size. Couples' education, exposure to mass media, and standard of surviving has significant positive impact on couples'ideal family size of two or fewer children. One son and one daughter in desired ideal family size, is preferred more by wives than their husbands. However, son preference in ideal family size has been observed and found more among couples residing in rural areas. Overall finding of the study reveals that education and standard of surviving play an important role in shaping the small family norm and ideal family size of one son and one daughter.

3 illus, 7 tables, 34 ref

019006   Kalra M;Khuller G K;Sheikh J A;Verma I (Biochemistry Dep, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh-160 012, Email: induvermabio@gmail.com) : Evaluation of Mycobacterium tuberculosis specific RD antigens for delayed type hypersensitivity responses in guinea pig. Indian J expl Biol 2010, 48(2), 117-23.

Tuberculin skin test (TST), an age old method is based on measuring delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) response to purified protein derivative (PPD). However, inspite of simplicity, ease and cost effectiveness, the usefulness of PPD test is limited due to its inability to distinguish among a protective immune response, latent infection and active tuberculosis disease. On the other hand, a skin test based on RD antigens would add advantages of a high specificity of antigens with the logistics of a skin test. However, except few reports, in vivo data of intradermal use of RD antigens for skin testing is limited. Therefore, in the study, four M. tuberculosis (Mtb) specific antigens (ESAT6, CFP10, CFP21 and MPT64) were evaluated for their diagnostic utility based on DTH response. These antigens alone and their multiple combinations induced strong DTH response in Mtb infected guinea pigs and the response was negligible in BCG vaccinated and sham immunized animals.

4 illus, 1 table, 26 ref

019005   Kaimal S;Sujatha K S;George S (Veterinary Biochemistry Dep, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, , Mannuthy, Thrissur-680 651, Email: sisiamma@yahoo.com) : Hypolipidaemic and antioxidant effects of fruits of Musa AAA (Chenkadali) in alloxan induced diabetic rats. Indian J expl Biol 2010, 48(2), 165-73.

Hypolipidaemic and antioxidant effects of ethanol extract of mature green fruits of Musa AAA (Chenkadali) was evaluated in alloxan induced diabetic rats. The effect of extract at two doses, 500 mg/kg body weight and 1000 mg/kg body weight was analysed and compared with a standard drug, glibenclamide. Rats administered with alloxan showed significantly increased levels of serum triacylglycerol, total cholesterol and alanine amino transferase (ALT) activity. Lipid peroxides increased significantly while reduced glutathione (GSH) decreased considerably in liver and pancreas. Oral administration of the ethanol extract of fruits of Musa AAA (Chenkadali) significantly decreased the levels of serum triacylglycerol, cholesterol and ALT activity. Significant decrease was also observed in the level of lipid peroxides while GSH content increased substantially in liver and pancreas. The effect was dose independent and rats treated with 500 mg/kg body weight showed comparable levels of serum triacylglycerol, cholesterol, ALT activity and liver lipid peroxides to that of normal control and glibenclamide treated groups. Although, there was no significant difference, treatment with 500 mg/kg body weight of the extract showed a higher content of GSH and lower level of lipid peroxides in pancreas compared with glibenclamide. Histopathological examination of pancreas and liver revealed regeneration of islet cells and hepatocytes respectively, which correlate with the biochemical findings. The study shows that ethanol extract of mature green fruits of Musa AAA (Chenkadali) has antioxidant and hypolipidaemic properties and may be used for treating diabetes mellitus.

2 illus, 3 tables, 34 ref

019004   Jamir N S;Takatemjen;Limasemba (Botany Dep, Nagaland University, Headquarters, Lumami P.O., Mokokchung-789 601) : Traditional knowledge of Lotha-Naga tribes in Wokha district, Nagaland. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2010, 9(1), 45-8.

Deals with first hand information's on 55 medicinal plants used by the Lotha-Naga tribes in Wokha distict, Nagaland for the treatment of various diseases and ailments.

13 ref

019003   Jain R;Jain P C (Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology Dep, Dr. Hari Singh Gour University, Sagar-470 003, Email: mtechnol@gmail.com) : Production and partial characterization of collagenase of Streptomyces exfoliatus CFS 1068 using poultry feather. Indian J expl Biol 2010, 48(2), 174-8.

Streptomyces exfoliatus CFS 1068, an isolate of cultivated field soil, produced maximum collagenase activity (58.19 ± 0.83 U ml-1min-1) in 5 days when soybean meal and starch were used as nitrogen and carbon sources, respectively at pH 7 and 30°C in shake cultures (150 rpm). Production of collagenase was higher (40.43 ± 0.63 U ml^{-1min-1) when poultry feathers were used as nitrogen source. Thus, the strain was found to be of biotechnological importance. The purified enzyme showed 30.34 fold increase in collagenase activity and was stable at 70°C for 1h. The enzyme was found to be of serine type.}

2 illus, 5 tables, 31 ref

019002   Ingle V C;Shivkumar P;Kalorey D R;Potey D E; Dhamanna Patil P S;Vanjari S S (Microbiology Nagpur Veterinary College, MAFSU, Nagpur-400 006) : Seroprevalencce of bluetongue virus in goats in Nagpur distsrict of Vidarbha region. Indian J Field Vet 2008, 4(1), 53-5.

Total of 651 serum sample were randomly collected from apparently healthy adult goats from 14 tehsils of Nagpur district. The sera sample were screened for the presence of blue tongue antibodies by employing competitive ELISA (c- ELISA) test. 27.95 per cent seroprevalence was found in nagpur district of Maharashtra. Higher seroprevalence in Bhivapur (68.88%), followed by Kalmeshwar (52.63%), Umred (41.30%) and Mauda (30.20%) tehsils indicates presence of foci of infection in that particular areas. These tehsils were considered highly BT infection prone zone for small ruminants. All tehsils were positive to BT antibodies indicating circulation of virus through out Nagpur district of Vidarbha region.

12 ref

019001   Hemashenpagam N;Selvaraj T (Microbiology Dep, Hindustan College of Arts and Science, Coimbatore-641 028, Email: nhema10@yahoo.co.in) : Antimicrobial potential of different extracts of Solanum xanthocarpum Schrad. and Wendl.. Pl Archs 2010, 10(1), 387-90.

Antimicrobial activity of the aqueous and organic solvent extracts of different parts (roots, stems, leaves and fruits) of Solanum xanthocarpum Schrad. and Wendl. against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and some fungi (Aspergillus niger, Candida albicans) was evaluated. Plant extracts of S. xanthocarpum were prepared in distilled water and in organic solvents viz. ethanol, benzene, acetone and methanol. Agar well diffusion technique was used to assess the antimicrobial activity of various extracts against Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis). Gram-negative (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa) bacteria and the fungi (Aspergillus niger, Candida albicans). The diameter of zone of inhibition was taken as an indicator of antimicrobial effect. Except aqueous extracts of different part of S. xanthocarpum, extracts prepared in organic solvents showed antimicrobial activity against the test organicms. A strong inhibition of P. aeruginosa was caused by the ethanolic and methanolic extracts of S. xanthocarpum. Thus, S. xanthocarpum could be considered as a potential source of natural antimicrobials.

2 tables, 11 ref

019000   Habbu P V;Mahadevan K M;Kulkarni P V; Daulatsingh C;Veerapur V P;Shastry R A (Post Graduate Dep, Pharmacognosy Div, S.E.T's College of Pharmacy, Dharwad-580 002, Email: prasannahabbu@ymail.com) : Adaptogenic and in vitro antioxidant activity of flavanoids and other fractions of Argyreia speciosa (Burm.f) Boj. in acute and chronic stress paradigms in rodents. Indian J expl Biol 2010, 48(1), 53-60.

Argyreia speciosa (sweet) (Burm.f.) Boj. is an Ayurvedic rasayana plant used as an adaptogen. The study reports the investigations done on the adaptogenic property of ethanol (EtAS; 100 and 200 mg/kg; po), ethyl acetate (EAAS; 100 and 200 mg/kg; po) fraction and flavanoids such as quercetin and kaempferol (25 mg/kg; po) of the root. Immobilization induced acute stress (AS; 3 days) and chronic stress (CS; 7 days) and swimming induced stress models were used to screen the anti-stress effect of the plant fractions and isolated flavanoids. The tested doses of EtAS and isolated flavanoids were able to produce significant effects in normalizing altered serum biochemical parameters and the severity of ulcer in both AS and CS models. Higher dose of EtAS, quercetin and kaempferol (25 mg/kg; po) were found to be significant in restoring the hypertrophy of adrenal gland and atrophy of spleen and thymus gland only in CS model. Greater swimming time was noted in the mice pretreated with tested doses of flavanoids and EtAS. In addition, levels of adrenal ascorbic acid and cortisol were restored compared to stress control group. EtAS exhibited significant scavenging effect of DPPH, hydroxyl radical and LPO. Thus, EtAS, quercetin and kaempferol are capable of increasing the capacity to tolerate non-specific stress in experimental animals, as evident from restoration of large number of parameters in the stress models studied. Bioactivity of EtAS may be due to the synergetic action of isolated flavanoids. Improvement in stress markers may be due its prolong effect of resistance to stress and partly due to free radical scavenging activity.

3 illus, 3 tables, 37 ref

018999   Govindaraj J;Emmadi P;Deepalakshmi;Rajaram V; Prakash G;Puvanakrishnan R (Biochemistry and Periodontics Dep, Meenakshi Ammal Dental College, Alapakkam Main Road, Maduravoyal, Chennai-600 095, Email: puvanakrishnan@yahoo.com) : Protective effect of proanthocyanidins on endotoxin induced experimental periodontitis in rats. Indian J expl Biol 2010, 48(2), 133-42.

Pathogenesis of periodontitis involves anaerobic oral bacteria as well as the host response to infection and several drugs have been developed which can curtail these deleterious effects. Proanthocyanidin, a novel flavanoid extracted from grape seeds, has been shown to provide a significant therapeutic effect on endotoxin (Escherichia coli) induced experimental periodontitis in rats. In the study, protective action of different doses of proanthocyanidins was investigated in blood by assaying the reactive oxygen species such as hydrogen peroxide, superoxide anion, myeloperoxidase and lipid peroxides, lysosomal enzyme activities such as cathepsin B, cathepsin D, β-glucuronidase and acid phosphatase, nonenzymatic antioxidants such as ascorbic acid, α-tocopherol, ceruloplasmin, reduced glutathione and antioxidant enzymes such as catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione-s-transferase. Experimental periodontitis rats showed a reduction in body weight and body weight gain could be noticed when they were administered proanthocyanidins. The levels of reactive oxygen species and lysosomal enzymes were found to increase whereas antioxidant levels were decreased significantly in experimental periodontitis. Proanthocyanidins at an effective dose of 30mg / kg body weight, sc, for 30 days effected a decrease in serum reactive oxygen species, lipid peroxides, lysosomal enzymes, acute phase proteins and an increase in antioxidant levels. Histopathological evidence of experimental periodontitis showed cellular infiltration of inflammatory cells while proanthocyanidin treated groups demonstrated only scattered inflammatory cells and blood vessels. Thus, the results showed that dietary supplementation of proanthocyanidin enhanced the host resistance as well as the inhibition of the biological and mechanical irritants involved in the onset of gingivitis and the progression of periodontal disease.

2 illus, 4 tables, 56 ref

018998   Gomes A;Bhattacharjee P;Mishra R;Biswas A K; Dasgupta S C;Giri B (Laboratory of Toxinology and Experimental Pharmacodynamics, Physiology, University of Calcutta, 92 A P C Road, Kolkata-700 009, Email: agomescu@gmail.com) : Anticancer potential of animal venoms and toxins. Indian J expl Biol 2010, 48(2), 93-103.

Anticancer drug development from natural resources are ventured throughout the world. Animal venoms and toxins a potential bio resource and a therapeutic tool were known to man for centuries through folk and traditional knowledge. The biodiversity of venoms and toxins made it a unique source of leads and structural templates from which new therapeutic agents may be developed. Venoms of several animal species (snake, scorpion, toad, frog etc) and their active components (protein and non protein toxins, peptides, enzymes, etc) have shown therapeutic potential against cancer. In the review, the anticancer potential of venoms and toxins from snakes, scorpions, toads and frogs has been discussed. Some of these molecules are in the clinical trials and may find their way towards anticancer drug development in the near future. The implications of combination therapy of natural products in cancer have been discussed.

^iia106 ref

018997   Gayathri M;Kannabiran K (NO, School of Biosciences and Technology, VIT University, Vellore-632 014, Email: kkb@vit.ac.in) : 2-Hydroxy 4-methoxy benzoic acid isolated from roots of Hemidesmus indicus ameliorates liver, kidney and pancreas injury due to streptozotocin-induced diabetes in rats. Indian J expl Biol 2010, 48(2), 159-64.

Protective effect was evaluated in streptozoticin (STZ)-induced diabetes rats. 2-Hydroxy 4-methoxy benzoic acid (HMBA) was isolated from the roots of Hemidesmus indicus and administered (500 μg/kg body weight) orally for 7 weeks to STZ-induced diabetic and non-diabetic rats to study its effect on protein metabolism, serum electrolytes and on liver and kidney lipid peroxides. Oral administration of HMBA restored the altered biochemical parameters such as urea, uric acid, creatinine, plasma proteins and serum electrolytes to near-normal levels. HMBA treatment significantly decreased lipid peroxidation and malondialdehyde levels in diabetic liver and kidney. Effect of HMBA was equivalent to that of the standard drug, tolbutamide (100 mg/kg body wt). The histological changes were also in correlation with the biochemical findings. The study showed that HMBA isolated from H. indicus roots had ameliorative effect on liver, kidney and pancreatic injury in STZ-induced diabetic rats.

3 illus, 3 tables, 27 ref

018996   Chauhan J (Physics Dep, Rajeev Gandhi Technical Univ, Bhopal, Email: jyotsnachauhan2006@gmail.com) : Comparative analysis and structure activity relationship of two systemic fungicides. J Envir Res Dev 2008, 2(4), 784-9.

The activity of of fungicides is intimately related to its chemical structure. Knowledge about the chemical structure of a chemical is useful for the synthesis of new compounds with more specific actions and fewer adverse reactions, to increase/decrease the duration of action of the original drug or to get a more potent compound, to restrict the action to a specific system of the body and to reduce the adverse reactions, toxicity and other disadvantages associated. We can understand the basic chemical groups responsible for drug action.Recently it has been observed that some of the fungicides are loosing their effects. So analogous compounds can be designed as substitute, if their structures are known. A rational approach to test these fungicides is to know the three dimensional structure of these compounds and macromolecular receptor sites as well as their molecular complex. The structures of these compounds can be obtained by X-ray diffraction method in crystalline form and they will invariably be similar to their structure in solutions.

2 illus, 4 tables, 17 ref

018995   Biswas A;Bari M A;Roy M;Bhadra S K (NO, Institute of Biological Sciences, Rajshahi University, Rajshahi-6205, Bangladesh, Email: animeshmedp@yahoo.com) : Inherited folk pharmaceutical knowledge of tribal people in the Chittagong Hill tracts, Bangladesh. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2010, 9(1), 77-89.

Questionnaire survey on the use of plants among the local tribal herbalists in the Chakma, Marma and Tripura community of Chitagong Hill tracts was carried out. Cross interviews of healers were made to verify the information. The indigenous people possess the knowledge of traditional healing system using plants. Till now, it is the only way to treat different ailments in tribal people in some remote hilly areas. Due to human interference the wild populations of medicinal plants are declining rapidly. Many of them have become rare and some are facing extinction. 190 medicinal plant species belonging to 147 genera and 57 families addressed with their traditional medicinal uses are recorded. Among the families, Fabaceae contained the highest number of plant species with medicinal properties. Of 190 plants found in use to treat 60 different diseases, fever was noted as the most common disease being treated by 35 plant species. There is need for documentation of indigenous healing procedure and for the preservation of valuable medicinal plant species.

33 illus, 1 table, 28 ref

018994   Basu S (NO, Foundation for Research and Development of Under Privileged Groups (FR, I-1628 Chittaranjan Park, New Delhi-110 019, Email: frduindia@gmail.com) : Socio-cultural and environmental perspectives on morbidity and mortality pattern of the scheduled tribes. Tribal Hlth Bull 2007, 13(1-2), 1-13.

Tribal population groups of India inhabit widely varying geo-climatic conditions and are exposed differently to the various climatic and environmental stresses and strains. All diseases manifest themselves in interaction with the environment. Delineation of the causative factors behind disease requires in-depth investigations into the socio-cultural and biological milieu of the population groups. It may include diverse factors such as sanitation, hygiene, parasitic load, mating-pattern, preferential marital alliances, nutritional pattern, health seeking behavior, genetic markers etc. Various factors affecting health and diseases in a particular population group may vary from one group to another. The principal causes of morbidity are: (a) Infective and parasitic diseases (communicable diseases); (b) Nutritional Deficiencies; (c) Non-communicable diseases; and (d) Diseases associated with Genetic Disorder. An attempt to examine the various socio-cultural and environmental issues associated with tribal sexuality, morbidity and mortality pattern of tribal communities in different states of India. With the help of available data from Census 2001,Sample Registration Scheme(SRS), NSSO, NFHS-2(1998-99),NFHS-3 (2005-06),State Health Documents, Health Statistics, Statistical Reports/Book References etc, a situational analysis of characteristics of scheduled tribes has been generated. Various socio-cultural, environmental and anthropological issues are delineated and a holistic approach is developed for analysis and interpretation of the morbidity and mortality data.

46 ref

018993   Bano M;Bhatt D K (Cancer Biology and Toxicology Lab, Zoology Dep, University College of Science, Mohan Lal Sukhadia University, Udaipur-313 001, Email: banomehaj2001@hotmail.com ) : Ameliorative effect of a combination of vitamin E, vitamin C, α-lipoic acid and stilbene resveratrol on lindane induced toxicity in mice olfactory lobe and cerebrum. Indian J expl Biol 2010, 48(2), 150-8.

Acute dose of lindane (40 mg/kg body weight, ip) caused significant reduction in butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) activity both in olfactory lobe and cerebrum of mice along with reduction in catalase (CAT), total protein and elevation in superoxide dismutase (SOD) and cholesterol contents. Pretreatment by a combination of antioxidants, vitamin E, vitamin C, α- lipoic acid and stilbene resveratrol (125 mg/kg body weight, ip) significantly augment the altered level of BChE and protect the other parameters in both the brain regions. The results were adequately in agreement with the histochemical findings, suggesting the neuroprotective efficacy of combination of antioxidants studied on the lindane induced neurotoxicity.

2 illus, 1 table, 44 ref

018992   Ahmad A;Ahmad S (Biochemistry and Biophysics Dep, University of Rochester Medical Center, 601 Elmwood Ave, Box 712, Rochester, NY 14642, USA) : Screening and partial immunochemical characterization of sulfite oxidase from plant source. Indian J expl Biol 2010, 48(1), 83-6.

Sulfite oxidase [SO; EC 1.8.3.1] catalyses the physiologically vital oxidation of sulfite to sulfate, the terminal reaction in degradation of sulfur containing amino acids, cysteine and methionine. Sulfite oxidase from vertebrate sources is among the best studied molybdenum enzymes. Existence of SO in plants has been established recently by identification of a cDNA from Arabidopsis thaliana encoding a functional SO. The study was undertaken to identify herbaceous and woody plants (viz., Azardirachta indica L., Cassia fistula L., Saraca indica L., Spinacea oleracea L., and Syzyzium cumini L.), a relatively less explored source, having significant SO activity and to characterize some of its immuno-biochemical properties. The Syzyzium cumini was chosen to characterize SO as it showed maximum enzyme activity in the crude extract as compared to other plants. Absorption spectra of SO revealed two peaks at 235 and 277 nm, but no distinct peak in the visible region could be observed. Crude extract of all the plants were taken into considerations for immuno-biochemical studies. Despite of significant protein structure-functional similarities between plant and animal SO, no cross-reactivity could be established between the two sources of SO. These data suggested that plants SO, however, differed with regards to their immuno-biochemical properties.

20 ref

018991   Agashe C D;Karkare A Y (SOS in Physical Education, Pt Ravishankar Univ, Raipur, Chhattishgarh) : Comparative study on physique and personality among tribal and non-tribal boys player of Chhattisgarh State. Tribal Hlth Bull 2007, 12(1-2), 48-53.

Physique is the basis of human existence; it is the plinth of personality. A good personality must have a good physique, good appearance, good bearing, good health, etc. The purpose of the present study was to compared physique and personality of tribal and non-tribal boy's player. 150 tribal boys player (avg. age 15.53) and 150 non tribal boys player (avg.age 15.26) selected from Chhattisgarh state. To obtained somatotype (physique) Heath carter somatotyping method (1967) was used. To find out personality of players Hindi version of eysenck personality inventory prepared by Helode (1985) was administered to the entire subject. While both the groups compared on somatotyping I.e.; endomorph, mesomorph and ectomorph body type result shown that in endomorphy body type non tribal boys player having more fat compared to tribal boys player, on the mesomorphy body type, again non tribal boys player found superior while compared to tribal boys player. When comparison made on ectomorphic body type between tribal and non-tribal boys player, result found that there is no difference between both groups. While both the groups were compared on the basis of personality result shown that non-tribal boys player were found extrovert compared to tribal boys player and tribal players were more neurotic compared to non tribal players.

3 tables, 9 ref

018149   Wokoma E C;Frank Peterside N (Microbiology Dep, Port Harcourt Univ, P.M.B. 5323, Port Harcourt, Nigeria) : Comparative study of Tinea capitis in children of public and private schools in Rivers State, Nigeria. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2009, 11(3), 507-12.

A comparison of the prevalence and carriage of Tinea capitis was carried out in seven public and seven private primary schools, comprising of 1397 males and 1364 females in two local government areas of Rivers State, Nigeria. Clino-dermatology data was collected and specimens from randomly selected pupils were microscopically examined and cultured on saboraud dextrose agar. Prevalence rate of children screened at schools was 9.85 % and 5.26 % for public and private schools, respectively, with more cases of dry non-inflamed lesions. More boys were infected in both public and private schools. 45 % of the girls in the public schools had Tinea capitis, compared with 37 % in the private schools. Clino-dermatology data also indicated that 77 % of the infected pupils in a private school used combination (topical and oral) therapy compared with none in a public school. The study further revealed that some pupils in the public school used topical herbal treatments. Five species and three species of etiologic agents were isolated from infected pupils in the public and private schools, respectively. The isolation rate was 5 % for Microsporum audouinii, M. canis, Trichophyton soudanense, T. mentagrophytes, and 2.5 % for T. tonsurans and T. yaoundei. The implementation of the UNICEF Child-friendly Schools Initiative, which encourages the teachers, pupils and parents to participate in hygiene and sanitation projects in their communities, is recommended.

4 tables, 15 ref

018148   Wokoma E C;Essien I E (Microbiology Dep, Port Harcourt Univ, P.M.B. 5323, Port Harcourt, Nigeria) : Tinea infections and carriage among school children in Oyigbo, Rivers state, Nigeria. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2009, 11(3), 475-81.

A total of 1441 primary school pupils from five public (community) and 5 private schools in Oyigbo (Obigbo), Rivers State, Nigeria were examined for carriage of Tinea capitis and Tinea corporis by sex, type of lesions, and type of schools, between June and July 2007. Specimens were taken from the scalp of 20 pupils with clinically suggestive lesions and examined by direct microscopy and culture. Clinically suggestive Tinea capitis and tinea corporis was found in 15.27% of the children, more commonly among males with a male to female ratio of 2.7:1. Tinea capitis was the most prevalent clinical type (80%) and most of the infected pupils (67.66%) had dry non-inflammatory lesions. The prevalence rates in the public and private primary schools were 21.74% and 8.51%, respectively. Majority of the infected pupils (67.66%) had dry non-inflamed lesions and infected pupils were between ages 6 to 10 years. The recovery rate of dermatophytes from 20 samples was 30% yielding the following dermatophytes: Microsporum canis, M. audounii, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, T. soudanense, T. tonsurans and T. yaoundei. Two pupils had co-infection comprising of M. gypseum and M. audouinii, and T. soudanense and T. yaoundei. The study recommends sanitation and health education for the communities, parents and schools on ways of preventing the spread of tinea infections.

7 tables, 18 ref

018147   Suthar M P;Patel R K;Hapani K;Patel A (S.K. Patel College of Pharma Education and Research, Ganpat Univ, North Gujarat, Email: maulik_biotech@yahoo.co.in) : Screening of Mallotus phillipinensis for antifungal activity. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2009, 11(3), 535-41.

The study reports antifungal activity of Mallotus phillipinensis. Anti fungal activity was reported against ten fungal species.

5 illus, 2 tables, 5 ref

018146   Singh N;Bagde U S (Applied Microbiology Laboratory, Life Sciences Dep, Mumbai Univ, Vidyanagari, Santacruz(E), Mumbai-400 098) : Polyethylene glycol-induced fusion of yeast and filamentous fungi protoplasts : electron microscopic study. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2009, 11(3), 611-20.

The recent availability of ready-to-use and affordable DNA technologies has resulted in an upsurge of interest in mushroom strain improvement using the techniques of genetic recombination that produce viable intergeneric crosses with the aid of protoplast fusion. In view of this, an effort has been made to develop simple and sensitive methods for the protoplast fusion of two distantly related fungal species, a basidiomycetous filamentous fungi Volvariella diplasia, a popular edible mushroom, with ascomyceteous yeast Williopsis saturnus to produce a resultant fusant that exhibits the desirable traits of both parents in terms of enhanced values of vitamins of the B group thiamine, riboflavin and niacin and protein content of the edible mushroom. Since the goal was the production of a basidiomycetous filamentous fungi containing some of the desirable characteristics of an ascomycetous yeast, protoplast fusion technology could be used successfully to circumvent the barriers to conventional cell fusion that normally do not allow crosses between distantly related and unrelated strains and introduction of foreign genetic information into the fungal cell.

13 illus, 31 ref

018145   Singh N;Bagde U S (Applied Microbiology Laboratory, Life Sciences Dep, Mumbai Univ, Vidyanagari, Santacruz (E), Mumbai-400 098) : Protoplasts of yeast Williopsis saturnus: formation regeneration and fine structure. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2009, 11(3), 605-9.

Spherical, osmotically sensitive protoplasts were efficiently isolated from young cells of yeast Williopsis saturnus by the lytic action of cell wall lysing enzyme Lyticase at a concentration of 0.25%. A variety of experimental conditions were investigated in order to achieve optimal conditions for viable protoplast formation and regeneration. Detailed analysis of different factors affecting the synthesis of protoplasts has been reported. The most suitable conditions for protoplasting have been optimized using 20 hour old culture and 0.8M sorbitol as the most suitable osmotic stabilizer. Protoplast formation was spectrophotometrically estimated to be over 98% complete in the end of 90 minutes. Transmission electron micrographs detailed the protoplast ultrastructure and showed the preparations to be completely devoid of cell wall.

3 illus, 2 tables, 17 ref

018144   Singh N;Bagde U S (Applied Microbiology Laboratory, Life Sciences Dep, Mumbai Vidyanagari Univ, Santacruz (E), Mumbai-400 098) : Preparation, regeneration and electron microscopy of mycelial protoplasts of Volvariella diplasia. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2009, 11(3), 597-603.

Studies the formation and regeneration of viable protoplasts from the mycelia of Volvariella diplasia and optimized the experimental conditions. Several commercial lytic enzymes have been compared for their ability to liberate protoplasts from the mycelia. The composition of the liquid medium for cultivation, culture aging of the mycelium, the combination of lytic enzymes and osmotic stabilizers used had important effects on the isolation of the protoplasts. A mixture of commercially available cellulase, chitinase, lyticase and lysing enzymes (from Trichoderma harzianum) yielded protoplasts exceeding 4.9 x 10₇ protoplasts per ml of the reaction mixture within 3 hours. Transmission electron microscopic studies of the protoplasts revealed that these protoplasts were totally devoid of cell wall material.

5 illus, 30 ref

018143   Singh H K;Maury A N (Environment Science Laboratory, Botany Dep, D.S. College, Aligarh-202 001, Email: maulik_biotech@yahoo.co.in) : Efficacy of GA and IAA for vegetable yield and uptake of macronutrients (P and K) in spinach (Spinacia). Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2009, 11(3), 583-6.

Spinach is a common vegetable plant cultivated throughout the year in the agricultural farms and kitchen gardens as well for its fleshy, green leaves. It is also grown in areas of coal-smoke pollution along the thermal power stations. The coal-smoke pollutants caused considerable damage to the vegetable matter which showed reduction to the extent of 66.9%. Ameliorative effects of the growth hormone doses of GA : H₁ (2 ppm), H₂ (5 ppm), H₃ (10 ppm) and H₄ (20 ppm) and IAA : H₁, (5 ppm), H₂ (10 ppm), H₃ (25 ppm), H₄ (50 ppm) on the vegetable yield and the nutrient content of phosphorus and potassium were studied. Phosphorus in the vegetable matter under GA and IAA was mobilized, to significantly lower extent at UPS as compared to its reverse trend recorded at PS with non-significantly higher values. H₁ of GA was the only treatment that exhibited significant increase in P (0.411%) over the control (0.311%). Potassium in the spinach shoot, in contrast to phosphorus, showed significantly higher contents, 5.8% (P=5) at H₃ and 6.4% (P>50) at H₄ of GA over 3.95% of the control. IAA was equally effective on the mobilization of the nutrient. The mobilization of the organic food (photosynthates) along with K reached to their highest levels Le. 187.9% and 62% respectively, both at H₄ of GA. P mobilization got hampered under the two hormones at UPS. But it was significantly enhanced to 32.1% in HI dose of GA-applied plants at PS. This study, therefore, reveals that vegetable yield and nutrient content, particularly K in GA and lAA-applied plants, can be safely harvested at enhanced levels under the ambient atmospheric environment at PS facing considerable levels of air pollutants.

4 illus, 2 tables, 12 ref

018142   Sharma R B;Sharma R C (Environmental Sciences Dep, HNB Garhwal Univ, Srinagar, Garhwal-246 174, Email: rakeshbhooshansharma@yahoo.co.in) : Seasonal variations in clinical manifestations caused by Entamoeba histolytica infection in district Ghaziabad, UP, India. Bull pure appl Sci-Sect A 2009, 28(1), 19-29.

Aim of this study was to assess the seasonal variations of clinical manifestations induced by Entamoeba histolytica infection and to determine the incidence of amoebic dysentery cases in district Ghaziabad at Modinagar. Clinical diagnosis was made on the basis of various clinical manifestations described by Kedarnath and Sarikwal (1965) and Kesaliwal (1954). These clinical manifestations were clinically investigated in different seasons for the period April 2004 t6 March 2005 at Primary Health Centre, Govindpuri, Modinagar. The main clinical manifestations were perceived with high intensity of diarrhoea alternating with constipation, diminished appetite, tenderness or pain in the epigastrium, tenderness or pain in the right hypochondrium, mental psychoneurotic symptoms and the cases without physical signs i.e., asymptomatic amoebic dysentery in the months of June to September, while the low intensity was perceived in the month of March, February and January for the year 2004 - 2005. The clinical manifestations of gastrointestinal infections show variable intensities with the seasonal changes due to variable intensities of environmental stressors.

1 illus, 2 tables, 31 ref

018141   Senthil Kumar R;Panneerselvam A;Thajuddin N; Saravana Muthu R (P G and Research Dep Microbiology, J J College of Arts and Science, Pudukkottai-622 422, Email: drmicrsk@yahoomail.com) : Efficacy of ferrous iron on cellulolytic activity of Pestalotia psidii. Res J biol Sci 2008, 1(1), 21-5.

Cellulolysis rate of the pathogenic fungus, Pestalotia psidii, was determined by estimating the loss in dry weight of filter paper. It varied in relation to changing ferrous iron content of the nutrient solution. There was positive correlation between the growth rate of the fungus and the mean loss in dry weight of the filter paper discs.

2 tables, 15 ref

018140   Selvakumar G;Senthilkumar R (Microbiology Dep, DDE, Alagappa Univ, Karaikudi-630 003, Email: micselva@rediffmail.com) : Streptococcal species from dental caries and antimicrobial studies using various plant root extracts. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2009, 11(3), 639-4.

Dental caries is a multifactorial pathological condition which involves a susceptible host, a cariogenic biota and a cariogenic diet. The aim of the present study was to isolate the Streptococcal species from various age groups within 11-40 affected by dental caries and the use of antimicrobial tests using plant root extracts. Four species Streptococcus defectivus, Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus mitis and Streptococcus equinus were identified from decayed tooth samples. Among the four species S. mutans were predominantly present in mouth and decaying teeth. This might be due to the secretion of acids. Three plant root extracts Achymnthus aspera, Thespesia populania and Mentha sativa were selected to conduct antimicrobial tests against the isolated species. These tests revealed that the root extract of A. aspera against Streptococcus species was more effective than the other root extracts.

2 tables, 11 ref

018139   Ramesh B;Satakopan V N (Biochemistry Dep, PSG College of Arts and Science, Coimbatore-641 014, Email: ramesh257@yahoo.com) : Hepatoprotective effect of hydroalcoholic extract of Ocimum sanctum against cadmium-Induced toxicity in rats. Res J biol Sci 2009, 1(3), 47-55.

Study was undertaken to analyze the hepatoprotective effect the hydroalcoholic extract of leaves of Ocimum sanctum against cadmium-induced damage in albino rats. Oral administration of cadmium as CdCl₂ (6.0 mg/kg body weight) led to significant decrease in the serum and liver protein levels as well as elevation of bilirubin, liver marker enzymes such as aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and gamma glutamyl transeferase (GGT) levels. The administration of Ocimum sanctum extract (100 mg/kg body weight, po) and (200 mg/kg body weight, po) before and after cadmium intoxication showed a significant increase in the serum and liver protein levels as well as a decrease in bilirubin and liver marker enzyme levels. The results suggest that oral administration of Ocimum sanctum extract provides significant protection against cadmium-induced toxicity in Wistar albino rats.

6 illus, 3 tables, 44 ref

018138   Paul B;Saha I;Roy S;Biswas R;Chaudhuri R N (P-19, Ladavpur University Employees' Housing Co-operative Society Ltd, , P.O. Panchasayar, Kolkata-700 094, Email: dr_bobbypaul@rediffmail.com) : Maternal determinants of low birth weight in an urban slum of Kolkata, West Bengal. Indian J clin Pract 2009, 19(10), 11-15,23.

To study the maternal determinants of low birth weight (CBW). Community-based longitudinal epidemiological study was done in 2004-05 in an urban slum of Chetla, Kolkata, West Bengal among 126 singleton babies. Students it' test, ANOVA and correlation coefficient were computed. The incidence of LBW babies was 36 (28.6%). Higher proportion of LBW neonates were born, among the mothers belonging to joint families, Muslim religion, teenage mothers, illiterate, per capita income less than Rs. 500, primipara mothers, spacing <3 years, mothers received inadequate antenatal care, partially consumed iron-folic acid tablets and with associated maternal morbidity. Despite the existence of high quality antenatal care services catered by different National Programmes, the high incidence of LBW reflects the lacunae of the existing system, which needs to be rectified. Awareness generation at the community and family level about the importance of health of the girl child and optimal maternal care during pregnancy would probably help to serve the purpose.

2 tables, 11 ref

018137   Packiyalakshmi P;Satishkumar R;Senthil E (Microbiology Dep, Sri Venkateswara College of Arts and Science, Peravurani-614 804) : Isolation and characterization of multidrug resistant nosocomial pathogens. Int J Pharmac biol Sci 2010, 4(1), 155-9.

Nosocomial infection makeup an important problem in public health care. Nosocomial infections are influenced by the microbes intrinsic virulence as well as its ability to colorize. In the present study, the microbes are collected from different site of within the government hospitals, Aranthangi, The microorganisms are characterize by biochemical test and antibiotic susceptibility test done in five different gram negative micro organisms namely E-coli, Proteus spp., Klepsiella spp., Pseudomonas spp. and Salonella spp. Many antibiotic resistant to this nosocomial pathogenic microorganism. These pathogenic are harmful to human community. It may conclude that hospital is a disease curative place not infective place. Various preventive steps should be taken by hospital workers for reduce the microbial infections.

2 tables, 16 ref

018136   Murugalakshmi C N;Anand R;Bhuvaneswari K (Postgraduate and Research Dep of Microbiology, Dr.N.G.P. College of Arts and Science, Coimbatore-641 038, Email: anand-ramus@rediffmail.com) : Isolation, characterization and evaluation of Pseudomonas fluorescens against Sclerotium rolfsii as biocontrol agent. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2009, 11(3), 653-6.

The investigation focuses on the screening of potential biocontrol agents against the stem rot pathogen of groundnut namely Sclerotium rolfsii. Among the two variety of antagonists screened namely P. fluorescens, isolated from rhizosphere of groundnut and P. fluorescens MTCC 1749, both species were very effective in controlling the growth of S. rolfsii both in vitro and in vivo conditions. Culture filtrate of Pseudomonas isolate and MTCC 1749 were more effective in inhibiting the mycelial growth, thereby causing reduction in dry mycelial weight of S. rolfsii, The outcome of this investigation was derived based on greenhouse experiments that confirm the antagonistic potential of the test biocontrol agents.

7 tables, 11 ref

018135   Malarvannan S;Priyadarshan K;Prasietha M A; Prakash L S;Prabavathy V R;Nair S (M S Swaminathan Research Foundation, , III Cross Street, Taramani Institutional Area, Chennai-600 113, Email: malar@mssrf.res.in) : Effect of Beauveria bassiana and Paecilomyces lilacinus on biochemical profile of Tribolium castaneum (HERBST). Biochem Cell Archs 2009, 9(2), 179-86.

The use of entomopathogenic fungus became a reliable alternative for coleopteran pest control and is widely evaluated in order to measure their virulence toward many insects. In this study, the change induced by B .bassiana and P. lilacinus on macromolecules like sugar, protein, phenol and enzymes, acid phosphatase and alkaline phosphatase in grubs and adults of T. castaneum were evaluated. Following fungal infections, reduction in the levels of sugar and phenol was observed in both grubs and adults. However the converse was true for the total protein content. Fungal treatments also had an influence on the acid phosphatase and alkaline phosphatase activities. The protein profile of grubs treated with test fungi analyzed by SDS-PAGE revealed the presence of a unique band of molecular weight 70kDa and also many low molecular weight polypeptides (26.8kDa, 28kDa, 32.2kDa).

4 illus, 3 tables, 32 ref

018134   Leelanath T;Sambasiva Rao K R;Ravi Kumar m (Microbiology Dep, , Pudukkottai, Tamilnadu, Email: llelanatht29@rediffmail.com) : Influence of physicochemical factors on chitinase activity in soil borne microorganisms. Res J biol Sci 2009, 1(3), 36-46.

Chitinases catalyze the hydrolysis of chitin, an unbrnched polymer of a-1, 4-N-Acetylglucosamine. In recent years, soil-borne microorganisms, especially chitinolytic bacteria that produce chitinases are considered potential agents in chitinase production. The organisms are strongly neutral/alkalophilic in nature and show maximum chitinase activity at pH-7 (276U/ml), and temperature- 37+/-2°C (2.590u/ml). Carbohydrates, nitrogen requirements varied for different microorganisms. The production of chitinase varied according to pH & temperature. In this study different organisms were isolated from the soil and variable carbohydrate, nitrogen sources were given in the medium at different temperatures and pH levels. After the proper incubation period the production of enzyme chitinase was observed and tabulated.

13 illus, 1 table, 25 ref

018133   Lahir Y K (Biology Dep, Jai Hind College, A-Road, Church Gate, Mumbai-400 020) : On the study of carbohydrates in teleosts - VII effect of administration of ketone body on glucose and glycogen in Tilapia mossambica (Peters) and Macrones gulio (Hamilton). Biochem Cell Archs 2009, 9(2), 207-10.

Reports on the comparative study of effects of ketone body (acetone) administration on glucose and glycogen in two fishes namely T. mossambica and M. gulio. The hepatic glucose in T. mossambica increased slightly". during 1'1 hour thereafter it gently fluctuated around control value while hepatic glucose in M. gulio declined appreciably. Glucose contents in cardiac muscles, in both fishes, declined considerably and remained much below as compared to the control values. Blood glucose contents in both fishes reduced initially but it exhibited the tendency to elevate. Similar behavioral pattern was observed in glucose contents of body muscles of both fishes. Hepatic glycogen contents in T. mossambica showed gentle elevation while hepatic glycogen declined in M. gulio. The glycogen contents in heart and body muscles exhibited initial fall but glycogen values in cardiac muscles recovered and reached upto control values.

4 tables, 15 ref

018132   Karthikeyan V;Ravi Kumar M;Karmegam N; Saravanan M;Sai Rajasekar C R (Karpaga Vinayaga College of Engineering & Technology, , G S T Road, Chinna Kolambakkam, Kanchipuram-district, Tamil Nadu, Email: karthimicro2006@yahoo.co.in) : Synergistic effect of ethanolic leaf extracts of selected plant species against bacteria. Res J biol Sci 2008, 1(1), 6-13.

Ethanolic leaf extracts of six different groups of medicinal and aromatic plants (Aegle marmelos, Euca-lyptus globulus, Centella asiatica, Lawsonia inermis, Catharanthus roseus and Chrysanthemum odoratum) are prepared and the sensitivity of selected test microorganisms to the ethanolic leaf extracts is determined. Different combinations of ethanolic leaf extracts of plants show effective antimicrobial activity against Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria. The synergistic effect is more when the ethanolic leaf extracts are used in combination than when it is used alone. Combinations of Catharanthus roseus, Chrysanthemum odoratum and Aegle marmelos show enhanced antimicrobial activity against the selected microbes.

5 tables, 19 ref

018131   Isac Samuel Raja S;Gnanaprabhal G R; Sivanandappa K C;Padmapriya B (Microbiology Dep, Karpagam University, Coimbatore-641 021) : Effect of media PH in reation to growth rate and immunogenicity of B. pertusis in pilot scalle cultivation. Int J Pharmac biol Sci 2010, 4(1), 51-8.

Vaccine is a biological preparation that establishes or improves immunity to a particular disease. Vaccines can be prophylactic or therapeutic. Bordetella pertussis is the causative agent of whooping cough and major childhood illness and infant death. The present study was focused towards the production of Pertussis vaccine to control the whooping cough disease and to reduce the mortality rate of the infants. In this present study the experimental work was made using Amar Pilot fermentor working volume 20lt equipped with PID, controllers optimised with agitation ,temperature, pH and dissolved oxygen. The whole cell culture of Pertussis was killed by heat treatment at 55°c for 30 mins, and also by chemical inactivation using 40%of formalin. The effect of growth variance of the Pertussis in pilot fermentor focused especially on different media pH and conditional growth and their inhibition effect on immunogenecity. Finally the quality of the vaccine can be screened by in vivo toxicity tests like Mouse Weight Gain Test and HSF test. Thus this study consolidate pH and their media condition effect on growth rate and toxicity in small scale fermento standardization for Pertussis cultivation with optimum parameters except pH and using analytical procedures given as full pledged knowledge in usage of methods for the preparation of whole cell Pertussis vaccine in pilot scale and screening of quality of the vaccinje.

8 tables, 16 ref

018130   Harish Chandra;Agarwal R K;Singh R P;Nautiyal A R (Microbiology Dep, Biomedical Science College, G M S Road, Near Ballupur Chowk, Dehradun-248 001) : Prevalence of Campylobacter infection in poultry bird of Doon valley. Biochem Cell Archs 2009, 9(2), 171-4.

Campylobacter species are the leading cause of bacterial induced diarrheal disease. Handling and consumption of undercooked poultry (raw) meat have been pointed out as the most important sources of human campylobacter infection. Isolation and prevalence of Campylobacter spp. in the intestine of poultry birds were investigated in Dehradun valley (Uttarakhand). Out of l00 samples of intestine 19 samples were infected with Campylobacterspp in which 5 are C. jejuni, 8 isolates are C. laridis and 6 isolate was C. coli.

1 illus, 51 ref

018129   Garode A M;Deshmukh N D (Microbiology Dep, Shri Shivaji Science College, Chikhli-443201) : Implementing water and sanitation hygiene education: promotion through school children. Bull envir Sci 2009, 28(1), 43-6.

Diarrhoeal and other water-borne infections are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in infants and young children in the developing world. On average a young child suffers 3.3 episodes of diarrhoea in a year, and each year over 3 million children under five years die from diarrhoea. Epidemiologic evidence shows that diarrhoeal and other water-borne diseases morbidity can be reduced through improved hygiene behaviours, even when the provision of appropriate water and sanitary hardware is not feasible. After reviewing the epidemiological evidence, a set of hygiene behaviours which if adopted can lead to reductions in morbidity and mortality, then stressed the need for the dissemination of more effective approaches to hygiene education. The potential for school children to make a larger impact on community knowledge, beliefs, attitudes and practices is great. School children are often the care takers of younger children. They are also the next generation. Schools are often highly regarded in communities, and much of what is learned at school is passed on either in children's conversations with family and friends or through homework brought back into the household. Schools can be used for promoting health and sanitation hygiene. Hygiene education should do more than just give children facts. Hygiene education programmes, their implementation and institutionalization through school children are still relatively new. As methodologies for hygiene education evolve, a clear understanding of the roles of the various actors is emerging. Concluding, sanitation hygiene education through school children would reach out to the home and community with massages and activities to promote visible improvements in water and sanitation hygiene behaviors. Discusses on implementing water and sanitation hygiene education and communication through school children.

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