015909   Thakkar A N;Thakkar V R;Bariya H S (BRD School of Biosciences, Sardar Patel University, Vallabh Vidyanagar-388 120, Gujarat, Email: vasuthakkar@gmail.com) : Extraction, separation and quantification of NPR1 in Solanum tuberosum. J Cell Tissue Res 2009, 9(1), 1709-16.

Non-expresser of PR protein (NPR1) is the key protein involved in the plants' defense pathway signaling and its estimation is crucial in accessing Systemic acquired resistance (SAR). Generally NPR1 expression is measured by its m-RNA quantification; however protein level quantification is necessary to know precise development of SAR as NPR1 is central in signal transduction and is considered as a master switch for SAR. In the present work, we have standardized extraction of NPR1 from S. tuberosum and quantified using 1 Dimension (1D) lane densitometry. The identity of NPR1 was confirmed by western blotting. The limit of detection was found to be 1 μg and quantification limit was found to be 30 μg. The regression coefficient was R^{2 = 0.990. The Coefficient of variation (CV) for three gels was 3.174 % and the CV with in the same gel was 3.073 %. Using this protocol, induction of NPR1 protein in the leaves of the S. tuberosum treated with fungal culture filtrate (FCF) of Phytophthora infestans was quantified. This can serve as a stringent, rapid, and economic protocol for quantification of NPR1 in S. tuberosum.}

7 illus, 1 table, 23 ref

015908   Singh A;Ali S A (Microbiology Dep, AIIMS, New Delhi) : T_H17 cells: new members of T helper (T_H) lymphocyte family. Biosci Biotechnol Res Communs 2009, 2(2), 133-8.

T helper cells (T_H) cells are special subpopulation of CD4^{+ T cells which provide help to other cells of the immune system in mounting immune responses against specific pathogens by secreting their effector cytokines. The newly discovered T_H17 cells constitute an important third arm of T helper (T_H) cell family, have been the subject of recent attention and intense research for immunologist. Here we review, Th17 cell development, differentiation and it's role in host defense and autoimmunity.}

1 illus, 48 ref

015907   Senthil E;Malarvili T (Biotechnology Dep, Alagappa University, Karaikudi-630 003, Email: ezhilsenthil78@yahoo.co.in ) : Protective action of Dolichous biflorus L. in fructose fed albino rats. J Cell Tissue Res 2009, 9(2), 1827-30.

High fructose diet is more susceptible to peroxidative damage as measured by thiobarbituric acid reactive species. The rats were fed high fructose (50%) diet for 45 days. The level of enzymatic antioxidants such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione-S-transferase were significantly lower in fructose-fed rats. Along with this, the level of non-enzymatic antioxidants such as Vitamin-E and reduced glutathione were also decreased. The rats fed with Dolichous biflorus (10%) alone and supplementation in diet to maintain the alterations caused by high fructose-fed rats. These results suggest that Dolichous biflorus exerts a enhancing the antioxidants potential, probably due to its biochemical ingredients.

2 tables, 20 ref

015906   Seethalakshmi S;Chinnaswamy P (Biochemistry Dep, CMS College of Science & Commerece, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu) : Reduction of diet ary folate and vitamin B₁₂ in alcoholics. Bio Sci Res Bull 2009, 25(1), 51-8.

2 tables, 13 ref

015905   Sathiyanarayanan G;Venkatachalam P (Microbiology Dep, Sengunthar Arts and Science College, Tiruchengode-537 205) : Screening the antibacterial activity of Nocardia species isolated from farm soils of Tamil Nadu, India. Biosci Biotechnol Res Communs 2009, 2(1), 49-53.

A screening experiment was carried out to investigate the antibacterial activity of Nocardia species isolated from farms soil of various hill regions of Tamil Nadu, India. A total of 9 Nocardia strains were recovered from farming soil spmples and these were then assessed for their antagonistic activity against four phytopathogenic and five human pathogenic bacteria. During the screening program 50% of the isolates showed inhibition potential against test-microorganisms. According to antibacterial activity and spectrum broadness, four of the isolates were selected and characterized by conventional methods. The unusual antibiotic profile of these isolates underlined their potential as a source of novel antibiotics and it can be used in the development of new substances for pharmaceutical or agricultural purposes.

2 tables, 18 ref

015904   Patil K P;Chaudhari B L;Chincholkar S B (School of Life Sciences, North Maharashtra University, , PO Box: 80 Jalgaon 42500, Email: blchaudhari@hotmail.com) : Screening for pharmaceutically important exopolysacccharide producing Streptococci and partial optimization of EPS production. Curr Trends Biotechnol Pharm 2009, 3(3), 329-40.

Capsular exopolysaccharide, hyaluronic acid produced by Streptococcus equi subsp. zooepidemicus, carries high Importance in pharmaceutical as well as biomedical field. In this direction, isolation and screening for exopolysaccharide producing streptococcus from - nasopharynx of horses from Maharashtra and its neighbouring place was carried out. Out of 70 samples, none was observed to be Streptococcus equi subsp. zooepidemicus while, exopolysaccharide producing BM2 was isolated which showed close association with Streptococcus dysgalactiae with potential to produce hyaluronic acid. BM2 was compared with Streptococcus equi subsp. zooepidemicus (ATCC 43079), Streptococcus equi subsp. zooepidemicus (MTCC 3523) which produced exopolysaccharide 0.052, 0.050 and 0.097 g/l respectively. Streptococcus equi subsp. zooepidemicus (MTCC 3523) gave higher productivity; hence primary optimization studies were carried out to achieve maximum its growth and exopolysaccharide production.

3 illus, 1 table, 17 ref

015903   Obembe O O (Plant Breeding Lab, Wageningen University, Box 386 6700AJ Wageningen, The Netherlands, Email: obembe@covenantuniversity.com) : Irregular deposition of cell wall polymers resulting from defective cellulose synthase complelxes. Indian J Sci Technol 2009, 2(3), 5-8.

Crystalline cellulose microfibril is formed by the spontaneous association of about 36 β-D-glucan chains, which are simultaneously synthesised by a large membrane-localised multi-enzyme cellulose synthase complex. Antisense technology has been previously employed separately on two of the constituent cellulose synthase catalytic subunits (CesA) of the complex in potato (Solanum tuberosum), namely CesA2 and CesA4, to generate potato tuber cell walls with reduced cellulose content. Genetic crossing of two transgenic potato lines csr2-1 and csr4-8 was carried out to investigate the effects of two defective CesAs in the same genetic background, with respect to cellulose deposition in the potato tuber cell walls. It was striking to observe, through fluorescence microscopy with calcofluor white, a strong fluorescence in the cell corners and less prominent and uneven fluorescence around the cells of the csr2 tubers as compared to others. It was also noted that these phenotypes were not pronounced in the csr2/csr4 double transformants as expected.

2 illus, 26 ref

015902   Mahira Parveen (Biosciences Dep, Barkatullah University, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh) : Kinetics of acetylcholinesterase in pesticide treated mammalian tissues. Asian J Anim Sci 2008, 3(1), 86-9.

Published data on the kinetic parameters for AChE enzyme in various of mammals have been reviewed. Mechanism of AChE action was adversely affected in mammals exposed to organophosphates, carbamates, heavy metals and drugs etc. Pesticides could inhibit the AChE activity in mammalian tissues. Pesticides and other toxicants seemed to be effective in causing the kinetic changes in AChE from mammalian tissues under in vivo and in vitro conditions. In mammals pesticides became more toxic due to accumulation in the tissues through circulatory system.

28 ref

015901   Maheshwari P;Anil Kumar (Biological Sciences Dep, University of Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada, ) : Antimicrobial activity of Abelmoschus moschatus leaf extracts. Curr Trends Biotechnol Pharm 2009, 3(3), 260-6.

Hexane, ethyl acetate, methanol and aqueous extracts prepared from the leaves of Abelmoschus moschatus were evaluated for their antimicrobial activity against a number of pathogens by using disc diffusion assay method. Clear zones of inhibition were reported for Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus megaterium, Shigella flexneri, Proteus mirabilis, Proteus vulgaris and Cornebacterium diphtheriae. After performing a bioassay guided fractionation of the eight hexane fractions, it was revealed that the fraction exhibiting major antibacterial activity against C. diphtheriae contained ternoid oil.

1 illus, 3 tables, 25 ref

015900   Liu H;Tanaka K;Kamada N (Developmental Biology and Oncology Dep, Research Institute for Radiation Biology and Medicine, Hiroshima Unive, Minamu-ku, Hiroshima, Japan) : Increased expression of PML protein in lymphocytes induced by serum from patients with severe aplastic anemia. Indian J Sci Technol 2008, 1(4), 1-9.

PML is essential for multiple apoptotic pathways and has an altered expression in human oncogenesis. However, the role of PML in regulating cell growth and apoptosis in aplastic anemia (AA) is still unclear. To investigate the involvement of PML in the pathogenesis of AA, the expression of PML protein and apoptosis in lymphocytes was measured with immunofluorescent staining after 24 hours incubation with serum of healthy individuals (controls, n=10) and patients with severe AA (SAA, n=10). After incubation with serum from SAA patients, PML protein was overexpressed both in peripheral lymphocytes from a normal donor and in a B cell line established from cells of the same individual. The normal lymphocytes contained a greater proportion of apoptotic cells after incubation with serum from SAA patients than serum from controls, which correlated to the serum-induced expression of PML. In addition, the induction of PML expression and apoptosis in lymphocytes by the serum was partly blocked by caspase 8 inhibitor, whereas no significant difference was found before and after caspase 3 inhibitor was added. These results indicate that some components contain of the serum of SAA patients, which was confirmed to _γ-IFN by us, acts on lymphocytes not only to upregulate PML protein, but also to selectively activate caspase 8, causing apoptosis. This disregulation may play an important role in the pathogenesis of lymphocytopenia in aplastic anemia.

5 illus, 3 tables, 40 ref

015899   Lahir Y K (Biology Dep, Jai Hind College, Basantsing Institute of Science, A-Rd, Chruchgate, Mumbai, Maharashtra) : Carbohydrates in teleosts-VI effects of cortisone administration on glucose and glycogen contents in tilapia mossambica (Peters) and Macrones gulio (Hamilton). Asian J Anim Sci 2009, 4(1), 39-43.

This investigation is a comparative study on the effect of cortisone administration on glucose and glycogen contents in Tilapia mossambica, a fresh water herbivore fish and Macrones gulio, a carnivore marine fish. As result of cortisone administration in T. mossambica, the glucose contents in liver and blood increased within 4 hours and remained higher than the control values up to 24 hours but these values declined in heart and body muscles during first 4 hours. Thereafter, these values elevated in heart muscles but remained constant in the body, muscles. The glucose contents in these two tissues remained far below the control values up to 24 hours. In case of M. gulio, the glucose contents declined during first 4 hours in liver, blood heart and body muscles. Thereafter, these values increased but did not reach the control values except the blood glucose contents which were higher than the control values after 24 hours. The glycogen contents in liver, heart and body muscles of T. mossambica decreased during first 4 hours and elevated thereafter. The liver glycogen contents increased and were higher than the control values after 24 hours while glycogen contents in body muscles reached very close to control values but glycogen values in heart muscle were less than the control values. The glycogen contents in liver, heart and body muscles of M. gulio also declined during 24 ours and did not exhibit the tendency to rise like in the tissues of T. mossabica

4 tables, 25 ref

015898   Lahir Y K (Biology Dep, Jai Hind College, Basantising Institute of Science, Mumbai, Maharashtra) : Effects of starvation and glucose loading on glucose and glycogen contents in Tilapia mossambica (Peters) and Macrones gulio (Hamilton). Asian J Anim Sci 2008, 3(1), 29-36.

Glouse conents were found to be more in liver of Tilapia mossambica than the liver of Macrones. gulio. Heart and blood of Mgulio exhibited more glucose than in the heart and blood of T. mossambica. Glucose contents in body muscles of T. mossambica were found to be higher than those of body muscles of M gulio. As a result of starvation, the glucose contents in liver of T. mossambica were found to increase up to 72 hr without exhibiting initial decline while the glucose contents in liver of M gulio, declined during 24 hr and thereafter elevated up to 72 hr. The glucose contents in heart of T. nuissambica fluctuated up to 72 hr while the glucose contents in heart of Mgulio declined drastically during first 24 hr and very slowly increased thereafter. The blood glucose level decreased in T. mossambica and fluctuated up to 72 hr and never reached control values while in case of Mgulio, blood glucose declined during first 24 hr and elevated gradually. The glucose contents in body muscles of T. mossambica declined during 48 hr and increased there after but glucose contents in the body muscles of Mgulio reduced to zero during first 24 hr and elevated gradually. When T. mossambica was subjected to glucose loading, its liver and heart muscles exhibited steady rise in their glucose contents while blood glucose and glucose in body muscles declined after showing elevation up to 12 hr and 24 hr respectively. The glucose contents in liver and heart muscles of M gulio increased during first 12 hr and declined there after while glucose in blood and body muscles of Mgulio elevated up to 4 hr followed by decline, in response to glucose loading. The glycogen contents in liver, heart and body muscles of T. mossambica and M gulio declined during 72 hr of observation when subjected to starvation. Glucose loading resulted in lowering the glycogen contents in liver, heart and body muscles of both the fishes studied. Glucose tolerance test was also carried out for both fishes.

9 ref

015897   Kumaresan R;Sankaranarayanan T K;Madhavendra S S (NO, Centre for Cellular amd Molecular Biology, Hyderabad-500 007, Email: kumri@ccmb.res.in) : Metabolic influx and energy investment in Macroterms convulsionarius (Konig). Indian J Sci Technol 2008, 1(4), 1-8.

Although a considerable amount of information is available on termite caste differentiation, much less is known about metabolic influx and energy investment among castes, those would presumably play a pivotal role in termite physiology. In the study, nutritional metabolites among the major castes of Macrotermes were compared and the data illustrated that the worker caste holds considerable amount of energy, whereas the soldier caste enjoys huge reserves. Reproductive alates also showed higher metabolic turn over but it has been concluded that energy allocation to reproduction is secondary and the energy investment in colony defense seems primary. Higher levels of glucose, cholesterol, creatinine, and fatty acids were observed in soldier caste, suggesting colony defense is an energydemanding phenomenon. Since Uric acid formation without xanthine oxidase (XO) is unlikely, exogenous uric acid source from other nest mates may be possible, because negligible XO activity and considerable amount of uric acid content is observed in soldier caste. Observed uric acid content and xanthine oxidase activity both were descending in the order of female, male, worker, and soldier castes. Alates have huge reserves of ATP, triglyceride, fatty acids, and uric acid. Maximum fatty acids reserve was observed in male alates and predominant gross fatty acids measured by GC-MS were stearic and oleic.

4 illus, 42 ref

015896   Khan N D;Khan Z H (Biochemistry Dep, Shri Shivaji College of Arts, Commerce & Science, Akol, Maharashtra) : Bio-processing of sugarcane waste for a amylase production by Bacillus subtilis. Biosci Biotechnol Res Communs 2009, 2(2), 220-2.

In the study production of amylase under solid state fermentation (SSF) by Bacillus subtilis utilizing sugar cane waste as carbon source has been investigated. Enzyme production parameter was optimized by varying different carbon source concentration, incubation period, pH, temperature and nitrogen source. 20 gms of sugar cane waste in the inoculums media yielded maximum enzyme production. Maximum enzyme production was also observed after 72 hours which decreased with further incubation. Optimum pH and temperature of the culture medium for enzyme production was 7 and 35<144><255>C respectively. Nitrogen source such as urea, peptone and casein were added to the media however supplementation with chickpea peel (as nitrogen source) enhanced the amylase production optimally.

3 illus, 1 table, 7 ref

015895   Khan A M (Botany Dep, Maulana Azad College of Arts, Commerce and Science, Dr. Rafiq Zakaria Campus, Rauza Bagh, Aurangabad-431 001) : Antifungal activity of Pseudomonas fluorescens against phytopathogenic fungus Alternaria solani. Biosci Biotechnol Res Communs 2009, 2(2), 233-7.

Antifungal activity of Pseudomonas fluorescens was tested against the plant pathogen, Alternaria solani in vitro. Different concentrations (500, 1000, 1500, 2000 and 2500 μg/ml) of Pseudomonas fluorescens were used. The results indicated that Pseudomonas fluorescens presented a most significant value against the phytopathogenic fungus. Inhibition of the fungus started from 1500 μg/ml and stopped at 2500 μg/ml. The presented data exhibit the antifungal activity of P. fluorescens and indicate the possibility of using P. fluorescens as a biological control agent for plant pathogenic fungi such as A. solani. However, this requires further screening of a large number of Pseudomonas strains from different regions of India to control various phytopathogenic fungi which can work as a good source of biological control.

1 table, 8 ref

015894   Jitendra Kumar;Lekh Ram;Yadubanshi S;Yadav F D (Industrial Microbiology Dep, Bipin Bihar (P.G.) College, Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh) : Economics of spraying fungicides in controlling Phomopsis fruit-rot disease of brinjal. Flora Fauna 2009, 15(2), 252-4.

Application of fungicides was found a remedy to control the fungal diseases but not eco-friendly. Although, use of bavistin gives best result in favour of yield and cost-benefit ratio remains higher i.e. 15.48 as compared to control.

2 tables, 7 ref

015893   Goyal N K (Zoology Dep, Mahrishi Dayanand College, Sriganganagar, Rajasthan, Email: arkajasurewin1@yahoo.co.in) : Effect of Capparis decidua extracts on the serum glucose levels of streptozotocin induced type 2 diabetic rats. J Cell Tissue Res 2009, 9(1), 1703-07.

Capparis decidua is xerophytic shrub, commonly known as Kair. The ethanolic extracts (50%) of different parts of Capparis decidua i.e. bark, fruit and flower (500 mg/kg b. wt.) were used to evaluate their glucose lowering potential. Diabetes (type 2) was induced in rats of either sex, aged 48 ñ 2 hrs, were injected with Streptozotocin in citrate buffer (pH 4.5) at a dose of 90mg / kg body weight intraperitoneal route. After 12-14 weeks, animals weighing above 150 gm were selected for screening in NIDDM model, by OGTT (Oral- glucose tolerance test). For this purpose, blood was taken at 0 hrs from the tail vein from overnight (12 hrs) fasted rats and they were fed glucose at a dose of 2.5 gm /kg body weight. Then blood was taken at 30, 60 and 120 minutes intervals. The rats having blood glucose level 7-12 mmol/l at 0 hours and showing highest rise at 60 minutes with the blood sugar level 234 to 360 mg/dl, which returned to their 0 hrs value at 120 minutes, were included in the study. A significant increase in the levels of serum glucose was evident in diabetic control group. The serum glucose levels reduced by 81.4%, 60.48% and 55.43% in fruit, flower and bark extract treatments respectively. These results indicate that Capparis decidua bark and fruit possess antihyperglycaemic properties.

3 illus, 1 table, 15 ref

015892   Ghosh A K (Swamiji Eco-clum C/o Tushar Dutta, 1/E-5, Mitra Compound, P.O. & Dist., , ) : Note on natural antioxidants: the precursor of antiageing. J Econ Taxon Bot 2010, 34(1), 91-3.

Oz-free radicals induce tissue damage thereby it may causes a number of ailments. Antioxidants minimize the effect of free radicals through different ways and may save the man and animals from various ailments. Antioxidants may be of natural or synthetic type. Some synthetic antioxidants have deleterious effect on human body. So, search for potential natural antioxidants is necessary to delay the senescence of human. There is a need to incorporate antioxidants in the diet. The possible use of naturally available antioxidant rich plants are documented in the present paper for human well being. Though gerontologists want to retard the senescence process through life-saving food and beverages. Generally nutritionally adequate somewhat deficient in calories full of antioxidants food and beverage intake delay the senescence process.

1 table, 3 ref

015891   Gadgile D P;Chavan A M;Kakde R B;Hatti A D; Pangrikar P P;Gaikwad R S (Seed Pathology and Fungal Biotechnology Lab, Botany Dep, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University, Aurangabad-431 004) : Post infection spoilage of crude fat content in mango pulp under the influence of Aspergillus niger isolates. Flora Fauna 2009, 15(2), 355-6.

Isolates of A. niger were obtained from different varieties of mango. Decrease in fat content was observed after inoculation.

^ssc12 ref

015890   Dighade A S (Chemistry Dep, RDIK College Badnera, SGB University, Amravati) : Antibacterial and antifungalactivity of nitrochalcones. Biosci Biotechnol Res Communs 2009, 2(2), 241-3.

Six different chalcones I_(a) - I_(f were synthesized by standard method from 2-hydroxyª3-nitro-5-methyl-acetophenone and tested for antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Proteus vulgaris, and antifungal activity against Candida guillermondii, Candida albicans, Candida tropiculis and Candida crusei. Six nitrochalcones I_(a) to I_f) were tested for antibacterial activity which showed good antibacterial activity while other shows moderate antibacterial activity. P. vulgaris exhibited no activity. Compound I_(a) to I_f) showed good antifungal activity against Candida tropiculis and Candida crusei whereas I_(a) to _(d) demonstrated moderate antifungal activity.

3 tables, 15 ref

015889   Dama C L;Sunil Kumar;Sharma V (Molecular Biology & Biotechnology Dep, Rajasthan College of Agriculture, Maharana Pratap University of Agricu, Udaipur-313 001, Email: sunilsaini2007@rediffmail.com) : Comparative biochemical and biophysical evaluation of ecofriendly mushrooms of Rajasthan. Envir Ecol 2009, 27(3A), 1405-09.

Fruiting body of six different mushrooms namely, Agaricus bisporus, Hyspizygus ulmarius, Pleurotus florida PF-01, Pleurotus florida PF-01 R₅, Pleurotus platypus and Pleurotus sajor-caju PSC-04 were taken from Udaipur and analysed for their comparative biochemical and biophysical properties. The maximum soluble protein was observed in P. florida PF-01 R₅ (5.56 mg/g fresh weight) while minimum in H. ulmarius (2.70 mg/g fresh weight), maximum reducing sugar was observed in H. ulmarius (18.22 mg/g fresh weight), while minimum in P. platypus (13.06 mg/g fresh weight). Comparison on the basis of biochemical and biophysical characteristics showed that cultivated strains of mushrooms (viz. A. bisporus) have low enzyme activities while wild ones (p. platypus, P. sajor-caju PSC 04 and H. ulmarius) have high enzyme activities. Thus, if wild counterparts of mushrooms are used for food purposes, more nutrients and antioxidants can be taken through diet.

2 tables, 21 ref

015888   Choudhary S A (Zoology Dep, Government P.G. College, Rajouri, J&K) : Inhibition of moulting of Drosophila melanogaster due to pyrethroid and plant products. Flora Fauna 2009, 15(2), 352-4.

Effect of Pyrethroid (fenvalerate) and plant product like tobacco leaves extract (nicotine) on the moulting of Drosophila melanogaster was investigated. Pyrethroid products showed varying degree of deleterious effects on moulting of larvae, pupae and adults. These are presumed to be due to interference with microªendocrine system of insects.

2 tables, 15 ref

015887   Bodade R G;Khobragade C N;Borkar P S; Manwatkar R N (NO, School of Life Sciences, Swami Ramanand Teerth Marathwada University, Nanded-431 606, Email: cnkhobragade@rediffmail.com) : Haemolytic activity of some pathogenic bacteria in mammals. J Cell Tissue Res 2009, 9(2), 1865-8.

Haemolytic activity of pathogenic bacteria viz. Streptococcus pyogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Shigella boydii, Shigella flexneri and Shigella dysenteriae was studied using blood agar at variable time period, temperatures, pH and cell age. S. dysenteriae revealed optimum haemolysin activity on blood agar of goat, human, buffalo, ox and rabbit as compared to other test organisms. At the temperature 37 0C, pH 7.0 and bacteria incubated for 16-18 h showed optimum haemolysin activity. Cell bound haemolysin activity was observed in S. pyogenes, S. aureus, S. flexneri, while cell free haemolysin activity was recorded in S. boydii and S. dysenteriae.

4 tables, 21 ref

015886   Bobbarala V;Katikala P K;Chandrasekhar Naidu K;Penumajji S (NO, For U Biosciences, A/4A, Park lane Residency, East point colony, Visakhapatnam-530 017, Email: varaprasadphd@rediffmail.com) : Antifungal activity of selected plant extracts against phytopathogenic fungi Aspergillus niger F2723. Indian J Sci Technol 2009, 2(4), 87-90.

Forty nine different plants used in traditional Indian medicine were examined against Aspergillus niger using agar well diffusion method were studied. The methanolic extracts of 43 plants exhibited varying degrees of inhibition activity against the fungi. Among the forty nine plants studied 86% of the plants had antifungal activity while the remaining 14% had no antifungal activity. The extract from Grewia arborea showed maximum activity. Emblica officinales, Heldigordia populipolia, Hyptis sueolences, Moringa heterophylla, Strychnos nuxvomica and Vitex negundo did not exhibit antifungal activity at the condition studied.

1 table, 21 ref

015885   Bhiogade S W;Kulkarni R Y;Dhaware A S;Dhaware D A (Botany Dep, Yogeshwari Mahavidyala, Ambajogai, Maharashtra) : Role of pollen grains as biopollutant in respiratory asthma. Pollut Res 2008, 27(3), 443-6.

Human beings are known to suffer from major allergens such as pollen grains, fungal spores, house dust, house dust mites, animal dander and food stuff present in the atmosphere. In India about 20% of population suffers from major allergic disease such as bronchial asthma, allergic rhinitis, eczema, hay fever etc. The term 'Hay fever' is use to refer to allergic reactions which may affect the eyes, nose, throat or bronchiartubes; although the term hay fever is often used for this group of symptoms, as a rule fever is not present. Pollinosis is caused by the pollen of grasses and other flowering plants. Plants produce huge amount of pollen grains that are dispersed in the air and act as source of aeroallergens inspite of low concentration. In the atmosphere it seems to be more potent as compared to other aeroallergens the work is in the direction of types of pollens, their intensity to causing asthma and the seasonal variations in them.

2 tables, 10 ref

015884   Bhagat R C (P.G. Zoology Dep, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir) : Systematic catalogue and host-plant range of Aeolothripids and Phlaethripids (Thysanoptera) of Jammu and Kashmir. Asian J Anim Sci 2009, 4(2), 248-50.

The communication incorporates an updated systematic catalogue-cum-checklist of thrips (Thysanoptera), belonging to family Aeolothripidae and Phlaeothripidae from Jammu and Kashmir state. In addition to this, host-range of 6 species of Aeolothripids affecting 22 species of host-plants, including economically important ones and 8 species of Phlaeothripids, affecting 12 species of host-plants, including economically important plants / crops, occurring in different areas and localities, have been elaborated.

1 table, 5 ref

015883   Balamurugan K;Indra N;Vanithakumari G (Zoology Dep, Annamalai University, Annamalai Nagar-608 001) : Protective effect of supplementary drugs on certain biochemical parameters of liver in rifampicin treated rats. Geobios 2009, 36(4), 273-6.

Oral administration of supplementary drugs such as vitamin A and C in the rifampicin treated rats showed the protective effect by decreasing the activity of liver marker enzymes such as ALT, AST and ALP and the level of bilirubin, lipid profiles like total lipids, triglycerides, and phospholipid phosphorus and by increasing the level of total protein in the liver tissue of albino rats.

2 tables, 26 ref

015882   Asma Parveen;Ali S A;Ali S A (Biotechnology Dep, Saifia College of Science, Bhopal-482 001) : Shoreline macrophytes in management and c onservation of a tropicl lake. Biosci Biotechnol Res Communs 2009, 2(2), 195-9.

Role of shorelines of any wetland have many distinguishing features, the most notable of which are the presence of standing waters during the growing season, unique soil conditions and a great diversity of flora and fauna. Such transitional habitats are often ignored because of the different backgrounds of the lake and terrestrial ecologists. However these ecotones are important for species and processes that encounter them as boundaries. Fresh water bodies which have direct relevance to mankind for his basic needs, have been studied extensively by several workers in the last many decades. On the contrary, limnological studies of oligotrophic tropical lakes in relation to macrophytic diversity have been neglected, particularly in the sensitive transitional ecotones of shorelines. In the present study diversity of different macrophytes were studied in a large tropical man made lake of Bhopal called as Upper Lake, which has a water spread area of 30.72 sq.km. at FTL. Macrophyte abundance along the shoreline, which is an important link of trophic status has been studied to have an idea regarding their inter applications in the shoreline ecosystem for conservation and management of lakes. Macrophytes are extremely beneficial for nutrient mitigation since they are (1) capable of some direct uptake in the water (2) increase hydraulic retention time by decreasing water flow (3) provide soil oxygenation and (4) provide surface area for microbial biofilms. By determining specific plant retention of various nutrients, improved planning can be accomplished for best management practices and remediation techniques such as constructed wetlands or vegetated agricultural drainage ditche. In the present study 25 species of macrophytes belonging to various orders, such as Convolvulaceae, Ceratophyllacea, Hydrocharriaceae, Najadaceae, Potamogetonacea, Pontedriaceae and Onogracease have been documented along the four sampling stations of varied topography, spanning the entire shoreline of the lake. It was observed that these macrophytes induced multiple beneficial effects for the conservation of the lake, including sustaining water levels, nutrient recycling among various trophic levels, providing shelter and growth to about 83 species of insects belonging to various orders such as Hemiptera, Coleoptera, Odonata and Diptera and also causing significant denitrification as evident from changes in nutrients with reference to macrophyte biodiversity along the shorelines of' Upper Lake. The paper presents a lake conservation and management model with reference to macrophyte abundance and interactions with emphasis on their use to attenuate Lake shoreline eutrophication.

2 tables, 15 ref

015881   Anil Kumar M;Krishna Reddy M;Sarangapani M (Pharmaceutical Sciences Dep, Kakatiya University, Warangal-506 009) : Effect of 3-imino (2-oxo-3,4 dihydro-4- phenyl-5-carboethoxy-6-methyl-pyrimidine-3yl)-5-chloro-indole-2-ones on fertility in male albino rats. Geobios 2009, 36(4), 285-8.

Effect of 3-imino (2-oxo-3,4 dihydro-4- phenyl-5-carboethoxy-6-methyl-pyrimidine-3yl)-5-chloro-indole-2-ones on fertility in male albino rats showed significant histological changes without significant changes in body weight. The weights of reproductive organs, sperm count, mobility of sperms and GSI values were decreased.

3 tables, 15 ref

015880   Ajit Kumar;Jitendra Kumar (Life Sciences Dep, IASCA, ITM Universe, Gwalior-474 001) : Defluoridation of water by adsorption onto thermally activated charcoal of plant material source. Biosci Biotechnol Res Communs 2009, 2(2), 162-6.

Fluoride is considered as an essential element for human beings and the most important fact about it is its narrow range of concentration (0.5-1.5 ppm) considered safe for potable water. High level of fluoride has become a menace at global level, including many parts of India, causing dental and skeletal fluorosis. Many serious investigations have been carried out to develop methods for de fluoridation of water based on precipitation, adsorption, ion-exchange resins, electro-dialysis and reverse osmosis. Recently, considerable attention has been given to develop suitable and efficient adsorbents using plant materials for de fluoridation purpose, as they are cheaper, operatively simple and widely available. Present investigation was carried out with the major objective of studying the amount of de fluoridation using thermally activated charcoal prepared from different plant materials. A total of 5 different plant materials (Amaltas leaves and fruits; Neem barks; Peepal leaves and Groundnut Shells) were used to prepare thermally activated charcoal and were packed into glass and polypropylene columns of known bedªheight. All the columns prepared from different plant materials were screened for reduction of fluoride concentration in standard solution of 10 ppm fluoride concentration. Reduction in fluoride ion concentration was estimated using fluoride ion analyzer with fluoride ion-selective electrode. The results of present investigation revealed that amaltas leaves had maximum fluoride reduction of 0.042ppm/cm/min, followed by pee pal leaves with 0.029 ppm/cm/min, when packed into glass column. In polypropylene columns, the reduction was maximum for peepal leaves (0.016ppm/cm/min) followed by amaltas leaves (0.0llppm/cm/min). The study also showed that upto 93.0% de fluoridation can be achieved for a 10.0 ppm fluoride solution using plant materials.

1 illus, 4 tables, 18 ref

015879   Agarwal A;Khan R (NO, , 1/15, Peepal Mandi Road, Hazoori Bhawan, Agra-282 003) : Alteration in blood platelet count after inhalation of nitrocgen dioxide gas in albino rat. Pollut Res 2008, 27(3), 447-9.

In the investigation, albino rats were exposed to 40 ppm and 80 ppm nitrogen dioxide gas for 15 and 30 days for one hour per day. A significant (P<0.05) decrease in blood platelet count with (P<0.05) increase in bleeding time (BT) and clotting time (CT) were noted. Alteration in blood platelet count, bleeding time and clotting time is the indication of disturbance in platelet production resulting thrombocytopenia in response to toxic action of nitrogen dioxide gas.

1 table, 16 ref

013725   Yilmaz S O (Refik Saydam Hygiene Center, Ministry of Health, Food Secutiry and Nutrition Research Directorate, 06100 Sihhiye, Ankara, Turkey, Email: suzanoz1@yahoo.com) : Identification of microflora in butter samples from Turkey by using the microbial identification system. Asian J Chem 2009, 21(4), 3257-62.

A total 138 bacterial strains and 52 fungi isolates were isolated from 53 butter samples collected from grocery stores in Erzurum, Turkey in the winter season of 2000. They were identified based on fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs) analysis with microbial identification system (MIS; MIDI Inc., Newark, Del.). All of the isolates and 4 reference bacterial strains were identified at species level. The most abundant bacterial species found was Enterococcus faecalis followed by Staphylo-coccus hominis, Micrococcus luteus, Pseudomonas putida, P.fluorescens, Brevibacillus brevis, Streptococcus sanguis, Weissella viridescence, Lactococcus lactis-lactis and Lactobacillus kefir. However, only 73% (38) of the fungi isolates tested could be identified with MIS at the genus or species level. The most prevalent fungi species was found to be Aspergillus versicolor followed by A. flavus, Rhizophus spp., Penicillium spp., Fusarium spp., Exophiala salmonis, Torulomyces rubrum, Phoma spp., Ulocladium spp., Geotricum candidum and Paecilomyces variotii. The remaining 14 fungi isolates could not be identified with MIS. Present MIS results are confirmed with conventional methods used for identification of the reference and randomly selected microorganisms isolated in this study. Present results suggest that MIS system is a rapid and reliable method for identification of microflora of butter samples.

2 tables, 21 ref

013724   Vermani A;Navneet;Prabhat (Botany and Microbiology Dep, Gurukul Kangri Univ, Haridwar-249 404, Email: archa_vermani@yahoo.com) : Antibacterial activity of Butea monosperma (Lam.) Taub. against dental pathogens. Flora Fauna 2009, 15(1), 12-14.

The activity of different extracts (petroleum ether, chloroform, methanol and water) of Butea monosperma flowers against dental pathogens- Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus salivarius, Staphylococcus aureus, Lacto-bacillus acidophilus (designated) and Streptococcus sanguis (isolated) was observed. Anti bacterial activity of the extracts at concentration of 200mg/ml against dental pathogens was done by cup-plate method. Methanolic extract showed maximum antibacterial activity against all the bacteria. The most susceptible bacteria were S. sanguis and S. aureus followed by S. mutans, L. acidophilus and S. salivarius.

1 table, 16 ref

013723   Venkatesh L;Lakshmipathaiah O R;Nagarajah C (AICRP on Agroforestry, ZARS, Agricultural Sciences Univ, GKVK, Bangalore-560 065, Email: venkifor@gmail.com) : Effect of VAM fungal genera on phosphorus content of Jatropha curcas (L.) and Pongamia pinnata (L.) pierre. Envir Ecol 2009, 27(2), 568-70.

The characterization of VAM fungi were made in five genera of VAM fungi occurred in species but based on number of spores available around root zone, Acaulospora sp. and Glomus sp. were predominant in Jatropha curcas and Pongamia pinnata, respectively. A polyhouse experiment was laid out to screen and select efficient VAM fungi for Jatropha curcas and Pongamia pinnata. Five different VAM fungal genera with P-combination were used for selecting best symbiont for both species. The seedlings inoculated with Acaulospora + P for Jatropha curcas and Glomus sp + P-for Pongamia pinnata had greater plant height, collar diameter, root and shoot length, total plant dry biomass and phosphorus content when compared to non-inoculated plants.

1 table, 7 ref

013722   Tomar A;Singh A;Singh A (Chemistry Dep, P.G. Studies and Research, M.M.H. College, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh) : Management of diabetes mellitus utilizing folk medicinal herbs. Flora Fauna 2009, 15(1), 3-11.

A large number of animal studies to test the claimed activity have demonstrated the hypoglycaemic activity of many plants. In addition, clinical trials have shown some plants as useful antidiabetic agents. The search for a novel antidiabetic drug advocates the utilization of plants as a potential source. Some research approaches are suggested to increase the likelihood of isolating novel antidiabetic agents from plant sources.

95 ref

013721   Sivakumari V (Environmental and Herbal Sciences Dep, Tamil Univ, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu) : Antidiabetic effects of Ficus racemosa on blood glucose in alloxan induced diabetic rats. Asian J envir Sci 2010, 4(2), 155-7.

Study was carried out to demonstrate anti diabetic effect of Ficus racemosa roots extract in alloxan induced diabetic rats with normal and control rats. The blood glucose and urine sugar increased in diabetic animals as compared to control animals. The level of haemoglobin decreased whereas the level of glycosylated haemoglobin increased in diabetic animals as compared to control animals. The level of vitamin-E and C decreased in diabetic animals as compared to control animals. The result indicates the level of blood glucose and urine sugar decreased in diabetic rats compared to control animals.

3 tables, 10 ref

013720   Sivakumari V (Environmental and Herbal Sciences Dep, Tamil Univ, Thanjaur, Tamil Nadu) : Anti diabetic effects of Ficus racemosa on lipid profile in alloxan induced diabetic rats. Asian J envir Sci 2010, 4(2), 112-15.

Study was carried out to demonstrate anti diabetic effect of Ficus racemosa roots extract in alloxan induced diabetic rats with normal and control rats. The level of lipid (total cholesterol, triglyceardies, phospholipids and free fattyacids) significantly increased in diabetic rats as compared to control animals. The level of LDL and VLDL cholesterol significantly increased where as HDL- cholesterol level decreased in diabetic rats as compared to control animals. The results clearly indicate that aqueous and alcoholic extracts of F. racemosa roots at a dose of 400mg/kg/bw have shown anti hyperlipidimic in alloxan induced diabetic rats.

5 tables, 14 ref

013719   Singh M (NO, Indira Gandhi National Open Univ, Regional Centre, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh) : Oxidative stress: its role and complications in diabetes mellitus. Flora Fauna 2009, 15(1), 15-20.

Diabetes mellitus has assumed epidemic proportions in most parts of the world and one of its ominous complications, diabetes nephropathy represents today the leading cause of end-stage renal disease in the developed countries. However, the pathogenesis of diabetes nephropathy remains illusive, notwithstanding, free radicals seem to be the most favorable linkage between all the associated factors suggested. Hyperglycaemia and its attendant metabolic syndromes, smoking and the use of xenobiotics have been shown to accelerate free radical generations and attenuate the antioxidant system creating oxidative stress. Sources of antioxidants, especially antioxidant vitamins are available and affordable in most environments.

2 illus, 2 tables, 33 ref

013718   Shanmugapriya N;Gnanasoundari S;Banuchitra N (Plant Biology and Plant Biotechnology Dep, P.S.G.R. Krishnammal College for Women, Peelamedu, Coimbatore-641 004) : Anti-bacterial activity of sunflower oil. Adv Pl Sci 2009, 22(2), 383-4.

The anti - bacterial activity of the edible oil (sunflower oil) have been studied against seven bacterial strains. The results showed that the oil almost inhibited all the bacteria tested viz-, Pseudomonas putida, Escherichia coli, Micrococcus sp, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus subtilis and Proteus sp. Among all the species tested Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Bacillus subtilis exhibited resistance to the oil.

1 table, 11 ref

013717   Seshapani P;Pramoda Kumari J (Microbiology Dep, S.V.U.PG Centre, Kavali-524 201, Email: Seshapani999@gmail.com) : Evaluation of MIC of Cd<. Biosci Res Bull 2009, 25(2), 127-35.

The study describes the response of a bacterial strain E. coli Nissle 7917 to heavy metal toxicity. E. coli Nissle 7917 the most extensively studied probiotic strain of E. coli in the world has shown that the absence of pathogenicity factors (e.g. of enterotoxins, haemolysins, cytotoxins, invasins, pathogen-specific fimbriae), combined with the presence of "fitness factors" (e.g. microcins, iron uptake systems, typical adhesins) which enable the micro-organism to survive in and colonise the intestine, contribute to the probiotic properties of EcN. The isolate was studied for its tolerance to two heavy metals i.e. Cadmium (Cd^{+2) and Mercury (Hg+2) cultured at 37° C for 5 hr in Luria Bertani broth without shaking. Bacterial growth was measured every half an hour using spectrophotometer. Findings obtained from this study indicated that bacterial growth reduced at presence of 0.5 mM/L concentration of Cadmium and 0.03 mM/L Mercury in comparison with control growth of the bacteria was completely inhibited by 0.7 mM/L concentration of Cadmium. And 0.05 Mm/L Mercury has inhibitory effects on growth of the bacteria. Mercury is highly toxic when compared to cadmium and this work suggested that heavy metals elements could interact in their metabolism in bacteria. It has also concluded that toxic effects of heavy metals element could be another view against pathogenic bacteria particularly in complex with antibacterial activity of various antibiotics.}

2 illus, 11 ref

013716   Sengul M;Degirmenci M;Erkaya T (Food Engineering Dep, College of Agriculture, Ataturk Univ, Turkey, Email: msengul@atauni.edu.tr) : Compositional and microbiological characteristics during ripening of cecil cheese, a traditional turkish cheese. Asian J Chem 2009, 21(4), 3087-93.

The aim of this study was to investigate some physical and chemical (dry matter, fat, fat in dry matter, salt, salt in dry matter, acidity%, pH, protein, water-soluble protein, ripening degree, lipolysis and ash) and some microbiological (total aerobic mesophilic bacteria, coliform group  bacteria, lactic acid bacteria, S. aureus, yeast and mould) properties during the repining time (1, 30, 60 and 90 days) of C₃ec₃il cheese. Dry matter, fat, salt, pH, acidity, total protein, water-soluble protein, lipolysis (acid degree value) and ash values of samples analyzed were found as 48.68,10.60, 8.08, 5.76, 0.27, 27.69, 2.69, 1.45,10.02%, respectively. In the samples, average of total aerobic mesophilic bacteria, lactic acid bacteria, yeast and moulds, coliform bacteria and Staphylococcus aureus were determined to be 6.65, 5.57, 3.54, 0.87 and 1.35 log cfu/g, respectively. S. aureus and coliform bacteria were determined in days 1st and 30th of ripening. According to the results, while ripening time was of great importance (p < 0.01) on dry matter, salt, salt in dry matter, pH, lipolysis, lactic acid bacteria, coliform, total aerobic mesophilic bacteria and S. aureus, acidity%, water-soluble protein, fat, fat in dry matter, ripening degree, ash and yeast and mould were found insufficient (p> 0.05).

2 tables, 45 ref

013715   Sashi V;Malathy N S;Soundari S G (Plant Biology and Plant Biotechnology Dep, P.S.G.R. Krishnammal College for Women, Coimbatore Tamil Nadu) : Fungal xylanases : their application and future propspects. Asian J envir Sci 2010, 4(2), 235-41.

1 table, 54 ref

013714   Santhi R;Annapoorani S (Biochemistry Dep, Vivekanandha College of Arts and Sciences for Women, Elayampalayam, Tiruchengode-637 205, Email: santhiakash@yahoo.com) : Antioxidative role of Terminalia catappa leaf protein against ELA induced mice. Int J Drug Dev Res 2009, 1(1), 81-4.

The antioxidant activities of Terminalia catappa were quantified using non-enzymic, enzymic antioxidants and liver marker enzyme. The activity of enzymic and non-enzymic antioxidants increased significantly by the intraperitoneal injection of plant protein fraction compared to ELA induced mice whereas it was reversed for liver marker enzymes. Terminalia catappa protein fraction can be considered as a potential free radical scavenging antioxidant.

1 table, 11 ref

013713   Salgare S A (NO, , Salgare Research Foundation Pvt. Ltd., Prathamesh Society, Shivaji Chowk, Karjat) : Effect of herbicide (sodium penta chloro phanate) on pollen germination and tube length of stored pollen of apocynaceae. Envir Conserv J 2009, 10(1-2), 43-52.

Even the lowest concentration (10^{-17mg/ml) of sodium penta chloro phanate tried suppressed the germination of pollen of F and F-24 series of red-flowered cultivar of Nerium odonim and F-48 and F-72 series of pink-flowered cultivar of Catharanthus rosetis. The herbicide stimulated the germinataion of pollen of successive flowers of all the cultivars of the Apocynaceae throughout the experiment. However, it stimulated the tube growth of only 3 out of 10 series.}

^iia1 table, 81 ref

013712   Sahoo K;Dhal N K;Bal S;Biswal S;Tripathy K (NO, Institute of Minerals and Materials Technology (Council of Scientific, Bhubaneswar-751 013, Email: nkdhal@immt.res.in) : Extracellular enzymatic activity of bacteria and fungi from the sediments of Bhitarakanika estuary of Orisaa, India. Geobios 2009, 36(2-3), 145-8.

Mangroves of India constitute about 7% of the total mangroves of the world, out of which Orissa sustained 214.85 sq km of mangrove forests as per remote sensing report. The mangrove sediments were known to harbour a heterogeneous microflora exhibiting many potential activities such as nitrogen fixing, phosphate solubilising, sulfate reducing, etc. Sediment samples were collected from different localities of Bhitarakanika mangroves. Four different types of bacterial and fungal strains were isolated and their various enzymatic activity studies like catalase, amylase and cellulase were carried out. Amylase enzyme activity was found be absent in Mucorfragilis and Pseudomonas stutzeri. Catalse enzyme activity was found to be present in all the microbial strains, whereas cellulase activity was present in all fungal strains except a few bacterial strains such as Bacillus subtilis, Azotobacter chroococcum, Micrococcus leuteus. The predominant bacteria and fungi inhabiting the mangrove sediments are the potential source of extracellular enzymes involved in the biodegradation of organic materials in this environment. Industrial utilisation of enzymes derived from mangal microbes is strongly suggested for further investigation.

1 illus, 9 ref

013711   Parbhat;Navneet;Sanjeev;Pramod (Botany and Microbiology Dep, Gurukula Kangri Univ, Hardwar) : Nyctanthes arbor-tristis linn. (Harsinghar): a potential medicine. Envir Conserv J 2009, 10(1-2), 141-3.

Nyctanthes arbor-tristis Linn, is widely used in the traditional medicinal systems of India. It possesses hepatoprotective. antileishmonial and antiallergic, antiviral and antifungal activities. The petroleum ether, ethanol and water extract of stem, root, flowers, seeds and leaves of the plant were screened for the antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli. Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pnevmoniae by using well diffusion method. The results were compared with reference antibiotic ampicillin. The water extract of root shows minimum inhibition zone (10 mm) against S. aureus and B.siiblilis and petroleum ether extract of leaves against E.coli and ethanolic extract showed the maximum activity againnst S. aureus and B. subtilis.

1 table, 9 ref

013710   Pandey V (Botany Dep, A.K.A.P.G. College, Bulanala, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, Email: vandanapandey,1@rediffmail.com) : Effect of oil spills and detergent solution on surface flora of Laxmikund pond. Adv Pl Sci 2009, 22(2), 547-50.

The macro and micro-floral assemblage of the Laxmikund pond were assessed in terms of their sensitivity to detergent solution and oil spills introduced to the pond as surface run-off. Various parameters like cell and plant count, protein and pigment content, pH and extra cellular phosphate content were studied. Cell and plant count were significantly (p< 0.5) increased up to the sixth day with detergent solution and slightly increased alkaline pH. Pigment contents were significantly enhanced up to the sixth day of the experiment with both the treatments but later on, lower volumes of petrol were seen to be stimulatory for chl b only up to the last day of the experiment.

2 tables, 17 ref

013709   Naruka K (Zoology Dep, Jai Narain Vyas Univ, Jodhpur-342 001) : Modification of radiation effects by WR-2721 in swiss albino mice. Geobios 2009, 36(1), 37-40.

Attempts were made to study the radioprotective effect of WR-2721 on spleen of Swiss albino mice. In the drug treated animals similar histopathological changes were observed as in the case of control but they were lesser in severity and were delayed. The recovery was also earlier and more rapid.

8 illus, 10 ref

013708   Nalini V;Ananthi T (PG. Dep of Biochemistry, S.T.E.T. Women's College, Mannargudi-614 001) : Anti-rheumatic activity of Plumbago zeylanica against formaldehyde induced toxicity in rats. Geobios 2009, 36(2-3), 177-8.

An attempt has been made to analyse the anti-rheumatic activity of roots of Plumbago zeylanica on formaldehyde induced experimental rats, by measuring the levels of haemoglobin, uric acid and non enzymatic antioxidants like reduced glutathione, vitamins E, and C. Increased level of haemoglobin and decreased level of uric acid and lipid peroxide (MDA) were observed.

1 table, 6 ref

013707   Mohapatra S P;Sahoo H P (Botany Dep, S.C.S. College, Puri, Email: s.p_moha@sify.com) : Status and use of tree biomass in the tribal village ecosystem of Bolangir district, Orissa. Adv Pl Sci 2009, 22(2), 541-5.

The status of tree biomass resource was investigated in 3 tribal villages (Chikalbahal, Kudasingha, Bhutiyarbahal) of Bolangir district of western Orissa. There were 57 tree species with 12 tree capita^{-1 and 35 trees ha-1. Multiple benefits yielding local tree species dominated the village ecosystem, while fuel only or single end use trees accounted for a small proportion of trees. The standing tree biomass is adequate to meet the requirements of the biomass fuel for cooking only for five years. Village tree biomass is presently being depleted largely for export to urban areas. So it is the high time to conserve the village tree diversity by proposing some programmes which will reduce the urban pressure and demand for tree biomass.}

6 tables, 5 ref