013706   Mishra M;Bhanagar A K;Shrivastava J N (Microbiology Lab., Botany Dep, DEI, Deemed Univ, Dayalbagh, Agra-282 005, Email: malamishra2007@rediffmail.com) : Antifungal potential of leaf of Croton bonplandianum Baill. against some human pathogenic fungi. Adv Pl Sci 2009, 22(2), 395-9.

Considering the present day need for developing ecofriendly herbal antifimgal agents, the present study was undertaken to evaluate the antifungal potential of Crotan bonplandianum Baill leaves against some human pathogenic fungi. The antifungal activity of four different extracts in terms of reduction in mycelial biomass (pet. Eilier, chloroform, acetone and methanol) obtained from leaf of C. bonplandianum were tested agaist Aspergillus flavus. Candida albicans, Microsporumfulvum and Trichophyton mentagrophytes. All the three solvent extracts exhibited antifungal activity except (pet. ether) against all pathogenic fungi to the different extents. Maximum percentage inhibition was observed in chloroform extract against T. mentagrophytes (90.12%), M.fulvum (71.42%)at 5000ppm concentration after 6 days of exposure and C. albicans (48.00%), A. flovus ( 34.62%) also showed inhibition after 3 days with the same concentration. Chloroform fractions of the leaf part of the plant shows significant inhibitory affect against all tested fungi followed by acetone and requires chemical characterization for its bioactive principle.

4 tables, 23 ref

013705   Mallick S A;Tiku A K;Gurdev Chand (Biochemistry & Plant Physiology Dep, Faculty of Agriculture, SK-Univ of Agricultural Sciences & Technology-J, Main Campus, Chatha, Jammu-180 009, Email: mallick.sam@rediffmail.com) : Rhizobial nitrogen fixation efficacy by chickpea genotypes in pot culture and field experiment. Envir Ecol 2009, 27(3), 1073-8.

Potential Rhizobium strains, namely RhCh-7 and RhCh-8, isolated from chickpea grown in Jammu region, were tested for their nitrogen fixing abilities with ten different chickpea cultivars. The efficiency study was carried out by pot culture and field experiment. The nitrogen fixation capacities were assayed in the respect to nodulation capacity, host plant protein content, plant dry mass and number of pod formation. Variation in nitrogen fixation efficiencies was found with the chickpea, varieties in both the experiments. In the field experiment, controls also showed significant values but Rhizobium strains treated samples always revealed higher values compared to their corresponding control values and hence showed their effects. Among the RhCh-7 strain treated chickpea cultivars, nitrogen fixing capacity was significantly high with the cultivars SCS-13, SUS-5, SCS-2 and C-235 in which SCS-13 had maximum efficiency ; while the cultivars SCS-2 (with highest value), C-235, SUS-5 and SCS-13 were observed to be statistically at par in the efficiency against RhCh-8 Rhizobium treatment But in both the treatments, SCS-12 showed lowest and the cultivars PBG-1, B-801, IBL-933, SCS-3, Gaurav with moderate nitrogen fixation capacities. These trends were maintained irrespective of the nitrogen fixation measuring parameters viz. nodule formation capacity, plant dry mass, plant leave protein and pod number and also the experiments conducted viz. pot culture and field experiment. But field experiment always depicted higher values compared to that of pot culture experiment.

1 illus, 3 tables, 22 ref

013704   Kavitha D;Nirmaladevi R (Biochemisrty and Biotechnology Dep, Avinashilingam Univ for Women, Coimbatore-641 043) : Evaluation of Aristolochia bracteolata leaf extracts for its antibacterial and antifungal activity. Adv Pl Sci 2009, 22(2), 407-9.

The study focuses on the antibacterial and antifungal activity of the medicinal plant Aristolochia bmcteolata. Aqueous, methanol and chloroform extracts of this plant was evaluated against the bacterial strains Escherichia coli, Shigella flexneri, Salmonella typhi, Klebsiellapneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aureus, Bacillus and Proteus vulgaris and the fungal strains like Aspergillus niger. Aspergillus terreus, Penicillium notatum and Rhizopus. Among the three extracts assessed, methanol extract was found to have the significant activity followed by the chloroform extract against certain bacteria. Water extract did not have any activity against bacteria. But antifungal activity assessment indicated that the tested fungal strains are more susceptible to aqueous extract followed by methanol extract and chloroform extract.

2 illus, 11 ref

013703   Jeyaraj N;Rajan M R (Biology Dep, Gandhigram Rural Univ, Gandhigram-624 302, Email: mrrajan1961@yahoo.co.in ) : Role of L-arginine and L-valine in common carp nutrition. Envir Ecol 2009, 27(2A), 888-91.

The study deals with the role of L-arginine and L-valine in common carp nutrition for a period of 30 days. Five different feeds having different concentrations of amino acids such as control, feed I (0.3% L-arginine), feed II (0.3% L-valine), feed IIII (0.3% L-arginine and 0.3% L-valine) and feed IV (0.6% L-arginine and 0.6% L-valine) were prepared by using fish meal, ground nut oil cake, wheat flour and tapioca flour. Feed utilization parameters such as feed consumption, feed conversion ratio, feed conversion efficiency, protein consumption, protein efficiency ratio, growth, percentage growth, relative growth rate, assimilation, metabolism, gross growth efficiency and net growth efficiency of common carp were calculated. Feed consumption and protein consumption were higher in feed III containing 0.3% of L-arginine and 0.3% of L-valine. The feed conversion ratio was best in feed HI. The growth, percentage growth and relative growth rate were higher in feed IV. Assimilation and metabolism was higher in feed II. The gross growth efficiency was higher in feed IV and net growth efficiency was higher in feed I.

3 tables, 14 ref

013702   Jeyanthikumari V;Victor B (P.G. Dep of Microbiology, K.R. College of Arts and Science, Kovilpatti-628 503) : Degradation of cellulosic substrates by wild and mutant strains of Pseudomonas arruginosa and Bacillus licheniformis. Geobios 2009, 36(1), 71-6.

Wild and mutant strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Bacillus licheniformis were studied in the analysis of cellulolytic activity, microbial biomass and protein assay on sawdust, coir waste bits and cellulose powder which revealed that the 14th day incubation gave the maximum output. The results suggest that the mutant strains showed good substrate utilization as compared to wild strains.

1 illus, 3 tables, 19 ref

013701   Hooda S (Genetics Laboratory, Bio Sciences Dep, M.D. Univ, Rohtak-124 001, Email: santoshhooda@gmail.com) : Comparative analysis of body weight in seven Drosophila species and a related genus. Geobios 2009, 36(2-3), 109-12.

In Drosophila the body size is very much sensitive to temperature. In the present study on male body weight, analysis of seven Drosophila species and Zaprionus indianus were made on day to day basis. Temperature of maximum value was high in tropical and subtropical flies and low in cold adapted flies.

1 illus, 1 table, 7 ref

013700   Gadani M;Vora A B (Biology Dep, St. Xavier's College, Ahmedabad-380 009, Email: maulikgadani@yahoo.com) : Phytosociological study of indroda nature park, Gandhinagar, Gujarat. Geobios 2009, 36(2-3), 200-2.

Indroda Nature Park was surveyed for phytosociological attributes. The dominant plant species are mainly grasses like Digitaria adscendens, Digitaria longiflora, Aristida funiculata, etc. due to the sandy soil. The data for abundance, density,% frequency and Importance Value Index (1VI) are presented here.

1 table, 6 ref

013699   Dhiman A K;Sanjay Kumar;Bhargava A K (Botany Dep, M.S. College, Saharanpur-247 001) : Total nitrogen, phosphorus and heavy metals estimation in-Terminalia arjuna (Roxb.) Wt. & Am. Adv Pl Sci 2009, 22(2), 475-6.

Trminalia arjuna (Roxb.) WL & Am (Combretaceae) is a medicinally important plant used in various aliments in Avurveda since ancient time. The bark of Terminalia arjuna is mainly used to cure cardiac disorders and to control Blood pressure. Deals with some biochemical aspects such as estimation of Total Tolal phosphorus and Total heavy metals in different parts of this Plant.

1 illus, 2 tables, 9 ref

013698   Deepika;Singh P;Upadhyay V (Microbiology Dep, Kanya Gurukul Mahavidyalaya, (GKU), Hardwar) : Antibacterial activity of extracts from Tinospora cordifolia (Giloy) against Staphylococcus aureus. Envir Conserv J 2009, 10(1-2), 157-8.

The active components of stem bark of Tinospora cordifolia were extracted using cold water and organic solvents (methanol, diethyl ether and acetone) and were tested against Staphylococcus aureus using the agar disc diffusion method. All the four extracts inhibited the growth of S. aureus, with methanol extract exerting the highest activity whereas water extract was least active. The results were compared with the reference antibiotic ciprofloxacin.

1 table, 8 ref

013697   Deepika;Singh P;Upadhyay V (Microbiology Dep, Kanya Gurukul Mahavidyalaya, GKU, Haridwar) : Antimicrobial activity of Vitex negundo leaf extracts. Envir Conserv J 2009, 10(1-2), 117-20.

Methanol, diethyl ether and acetone extracts of leaf of Vitex negundo were tested for their antibacterial activity against two human pathogenic bacteria Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and one fungus Aspergilliis niger using the disc diffusion method. It was found that all the extracts produced inhibitory effect but the methanol extract of leaves exhibited a superior level of antimicrobial activity. The minimum inhibitory concentration(MIC) and minimum fungicidal concentration(MFC)was determined by broth dilution method. The results were compared with the reference antibiotics.

3 illus, 6 tables, 7 ref

013696   Bohra A;Bohra A (Microbiology Laboratory, Botany Dep, Jai Narain Vyas Univ, Jodhpur-342 001) : Anti-bacterial activity of Allium sativum against some human and plant pathogenic bacteria. Adv Pl Sci 2009, 22(2), 385-6.

Antimicrobial activity of different parts of Allium sativum viz. bulb and leaves were tested against some human and plant pathogenic bacteria i.e., Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella typhi, Streptococcus pyogenes. Xanthomonas campestris and Agrobacterium tumefaciens. During this investigation, both fresh and dried extracts (aqueous and alcoholic) of various plant parts such as leaves anti-bacterial activities of various plant parts of A. sativum. The plant extracts were prepared in the ratio of 1:2.5 (w/v) of plant material. It was observed that fresh extracts were more effective than dried extracts against all the bacteria. Aqueous bulb extracts showed maximum inhibition zone against Xanthomonas campestris. Complete inhibition was observed in case of both aqueous and alcoholic bulb extracts against Xanthomonas campestris.

1 table, 9 ref

013695   Batabyal K;Maity D;Das B (Veterinary Microbiology Dep, West Bengal Univ of Animal & Fishery Sciences, Kolkata-700 037, Email: microbe20032000@yahoo.co.in) : Isolation of pathogenic Clostridium perfringens from meat samples collected from Kolkata and adjacent areas. Envir Ecol 2009, 27(2), 507-9.

A total of 354 specimens of chicken meat and meat dishes were examined for the presence of Clostridium perfrigens. Of this, 221 were raw chicken, 133 were processed meats and meat dishes. Cloitridium perfringens was isolated from 143 (40.3%) of these specimens. The highest percentage of contamination (136 = 61.6%) was found in raw meats and the lowest 7 (5.2%) in cooked meat dishes. Studies of the effects of various holding temperatures on the growth of C. perfringens indicated that extremely rapid growth occurred at temperatures around 45 C but the growth was accomplished between 37 and 47 C. Tentative Clostridium perfringens isolates detected by the biochemical tests, were confirmed by sandwich ELISA. Then the positive samples were tested for their pathogenicity in Swiss albino mice showing high (80-85%) percentage of mortality.

10 ref

013694   Basu R (Env. Studies Dep, Saltora Netaji Centenary College, Saltora-722 158, Email: ramsankarprl@yahoo.co.in) : Phytosociological studies of a sacred grove at Biharinath hill, West Bengal. Adv Pl Sci 2009, 22(2), 535-9.

A series of investigations were carried out in an ancient sacred grove at Biharinath hill, Bankura district of West Bengal, with an objective to study the flora and to enlist them based on morphology and growth habits. This Gondwanaland hill system acquires an area of 324 hectares, altitude 447.75m, have civilization of 1st part of Christian era and have Tropical Dry Deciduous Type of monsoon vegetation. Till now, the studies have revealed 118 plant species. Out of which, 46 are arborescent. Dominant tree species are Shorea robusta, Aegle marmelos, Flacourtia ramontchi, Buchanania lanzan and Madhuca longifolia. Almost 55 species have medicinal properties. About 6 wild relatives of cultivars and 5 endemic species of plants are found to occur. Dominant family in the study area is Fabaceae with 10 species. But Dipterocarpaceae has maximum number of individuals. Coinbretaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Verbenaceae have good representation. Poaceae is represented well with Aristida setacea as main species. It has been found that 3% of trees are confined to the height class of 5m, 34% within 5-10m, 25% within l0)-15m and 38% in height class more than 15m. Above 15m height class is represented mostly by Shorea robusta. 7% trees are confined to the girth class of 1m, 86% within 1-2m, 5% within 2-3 m and 2% in girth class more than 3m. Above 3m girth class is represented mostly by Terminalia arjuna. The structural parameters of woody species analyses species richness, speceis diversity, growth, trends of succession and other charactaristics of the community. Floristic diversity is found to be 0.99. This sacred place of Buddha, Jain and Hindu pilgrim could be declared as an important reservoir of Biodiversity, which can influence live hood and market economy of the local people.

2 tables, 16 ref

013693   Arora B (Microbiology Dep, Abeda Inamdar Sr. College, Pune) : Stress induced alterations in the outer membrane of Escherichia coli K-12 strain. Envir Conserv J 2009, 10(1-2), 1-8.

In the study, gram-negative (Escherichia coh K-12) bacterial biomembrane involvement was studied in the presence of modulating factors such as EDTA, Mg^{+2 ions and EDTA and Mg+2 ions in combination. The release of proteins and their involvement during the transport of (5-Lactams namely Ceftriaxone and Cefazolm were also studied. The broader applications of Ceftriaxone for pharmaceutical implications offer greater advantage as compared to pre-existing β-Lactams. Due to the availability of more signal molecules in the membranes there is enhanced toxicity at 5 mM EDTA concentration, and easy entrapment of antibiotics, thus enhanced sensitivity levels. A concentration of 15 mM Mg+2 ions was found to be toxic for E.coli whereas it exhibited luxuriant growth with decreasing Mg+2 ion concentration under antibiotic stress. On the contrary, when 5 mM EDTA is treated in combination with Mg+2, it attributed reduced signals available on the membrane surface therefore, reduced drug sensitivity. To identify the involvement of specific proteins and to know the site of proteins released which are directly or indirectly involved in transport of antibiotics across the biological membrane, the protein release was monitored from intact cells, as well as, membrane vesicles derived from E.coli cells and studied upto a level of molecular weight determination and measured by using a high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC). The study confirms the induction of certain stress signal proteins from the outer membrane, thereby rendering the bacteria more susceptible to therapy.}

6 illus, 8 ref

013692   Agnihotri M;Khan A (NO, Government Medical College and Maharani Hospital, Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh) : Dietary effect of water soluble gummy fibre and water insoluble neutral detergent fibre (NDF) isolated from Syzygium cumini seeds on blood glucose, glucose tolerance and some intestinal enzymes in normal and diabetic male albino rats. Envir Conserv J 2009, 10(1-2), 15-20.

In the study, the effect of feeding of diets containing 12% and 18% water soluble gummy fibre and 5% and 10% water insoluble neutral detergent fibre (NDF) isolated from Syiygium cumini seeds were carried out in normal and alloxan treated diabetic rats for 21 days. Die results obtained from present study indicates that incorporation of 12% and 18% water soluble gummy fibre significantly reduces blood glucose, notably improved glucose tolerance and decreased activity of intestinal enzymes i.e. amylase and invertase while 5% and 10% water insoluble neutral detergent fibre (NDF) did not exhibit any hypoglycaemic effect in both normal and treated diabetic rats.

3 tables, 10 ref

012635   Wokoma E C;Agwa O K (Microbiology Dep, Port Harcourt Univ, P.M.B. 5323, Port Harcourt, Nigeria, Email: ecwokoma@yahoo.co.uk) : Ringworm infections among primary school children in obio-akpor local government area of rivers sate, Nigeria. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2009, 11(1), 1-6.

A study of Tinea capitis and Tinea corporis infections among school children was carried out on pupils in 2 private and 2 public primary schools, within Obio-Akpor Local Government Area (LGA) of Rivers State, Nigeria. Of the 1320 pupils studied (632 males, 688 females), aged 5-13 years, 79 cases were clinically diagnosed for infection with 73 cases infected with tinea capitis and 6 cases with Tinea corporis. A total prevalence rate of 5.99% was observed, with 5.5% being Tinea capitis infection. Majority of the pupils (91%) had dry-inflammatory lesions while 9% had wet-inflammatory lesions. Males were more infected with Tinea capitis than females (64.6% vs. 35.4%; p < 0.05). Children within 8-10 years of age were more infected (45.6%) compared to ages 5 to 7years (27.8%) and 11 to 13 years (26.6%). Pupils from the public schools were significantly more infected than pupils from private schools ((93.6% vs. 6.33%). Trichophyton, Microsporum and Epidermophyton sp. were isolated with a 50% recovery rate.

4 tables, 42 ref

012634   Vishwanatha T;Shankraiah M;Lingappa K (Microbiology Dep, Govt. Science College, Tumkur-572 103, Email: lvphaget@rediffmail.com) : Bacteriophage therapy against antibiotic resistant Escherichia coli causing diarrhoea. Bioscan 2009, 4(2), 353-4.

E. coli causative agent of diarrhoea and antibiotic resistant isolated from patients stool matter. Bacteriophage specific for E. coli was isolated from a domestic sewage. The test animals were given the viable organisms of E. coli along with their specific phage partners at different doses. The test animals administrated with E. coli along with phage were exhibited no signs of diseases. The protective ability demonstrated by the test animals during the studies may be due to the presence of specific phage.

1 table, 11 ref

012633   Virmani M;Garg S L;Sharma A (Veterinary Biochemistry Dep, College of Veterinary Sciences, CCS HAU, Hisar-125 004) : In vitro studies on antimicrobial activity of Allium sativum against bacterial and fungal pathogens of animal health importance. J Immun Immunopath 2008, 10(1), 46-9.

Crude alcoholic and aqueous extracts of bulb and leaves of Allium sativum (garlic) were studied in vitro for their antimicrobial activity against the bacteria (Salmonella Gallinarum , Pasteurella multocida, Streptococcus zooepidemicus, Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus) and fungus (Aspergillus fumigatus) of animal health importance. The alcoholic extract of clove of garlic possessed antimicrobial activity against all above mentioned bacteria except Pasteurella multocida with greater diameter of inhibition zone (range- 21.00±2.00 to 24.33±2.08 mm) and less minimum inhibitory concentration as compared to its corresponding aqueous extract. The alcoholic extract of garlic leaf was also found to possess antibacterial activity against Streptococcus zooepidemicus and Escherichia coli. However, its aqueous extract showed no antimicrobial activity at all. The growth of Aspergillus fumigatus was inhibited by the alcoholic extracts of garlic bulb as well as leaf while their corresponding aqueous extracts showed no antifungal activity.

2 tables, 23 ref

012632   Vinodhini S;Malathy N S (Plant Biology and Plant Biotechnology Dep, P.S.G.R. Krishnammal College for Women, Peelamedu, Coimbatore-641 004, Email: winvino2004@yahoo.co.in) : Biopropecting of plant fibres. Bioscan 2009, 4(2), 367-8.

This investigation deals with the physical properties and biochemical aspects of fibres of plants like Canna indica, Sansevetia trifasciata, Cissus quadrangularis, Hibiscus rosasinensis, Ananas comosus, Borassus flabellifer. Fiber length, diameter, tensile strength, water sorption, cellulose content, lignin content, ash content and pectic substances were analyzed. The study revealed that Hibiscus rosasinensis (stem) had better yield and quality of fibre than others.

1 table, 6 ref

012631   Vijayvargia R;Shekhawat N (Plant Pathology and Biochemistry Laboratory, Botany Dep, Rajasthan Univ, Jaipur-302 004, Email: nehnishu85@gmail.com) : Biochemical estimation of primary metabolites of Madhuca indica GMEL. Bioscan 2009, 4(2), 321-4.

Plants are like natural laboratories where a great number of chemicals are biosynthesized and in fact they may be considered as the most important source of chemical compounds. These compounds known as primary and secondary metabolites, which are further used in medicine and pharmacy as drug precursors. These are largely being used in pharmaceutical, cosmetic, agricultural and food industry. In the present investigation attempt has been made to investigate the primary metabolites such as protein, lipids, starch, phenol and sugar in different plant parts which is present in different proportions. The Remedial amount of soluble sugar was observed in leaf i.e.126 mg/gdw, phenol (46mg/gdw) and lipid (38mg/gdw) in root, protein in leaf i.e.64mg/gdw and starch in stem i.e 54 mg/ gdw as compared to other parts of Madhuca indica.

5 illus, 1 table, 25 ref

012630   Thati V;Venkatesh K S;Shivannavar C T;Gaddad S M (Studies in Microbiology Dep, Gulbarga Univ, Gulbarga, Karnataka, Email: smgadad2007@rediffmail.com) : Prevalence, epidemiology & antibiotic sensitivity pattern of Staphylococcus aureus in southern parts of Karnataka, (India). Bionano Front 2010, NCANDT(spl), 56-9.

Staphylococcus aureus is an important nosocomial as well as opportunistic pathogen, Reports the epidemiology and antibiotic sensitivity pattern of hospital borne S. aureus in Bangalore city and Kolar District of South Karnataka, India. Both the cities were different socio-economic pattern. 73,3% of the S.aureus was detected as MRSA and 2.6% vancomycin resistant S. aureus (VRSA). Among the MRSA the maximum resistance was found to be against Penicillin, Kanamycin, and Cefaclor. Also observed that almost all the vancomycin resistant strains were methicillin resistant (87.7%).Both the MRSA and VRSA isolates were more susceptible to ciprofloxacin and erythromycin. The report on the resistance to ciprofloxacin, cefaclor and of laxacin is comparatively far low than the reported >80% resistance to these antibiotics. This may be because of a very low frequency of usage of these drugs in this region as they are costly and, hence, are used only when essential. VRSA were not detected in Bangalore city and low number of MRSA indicated that regular surveillance of hospital associated infections including monitoring antibiotic sensitivity pattern of 5. aureus and formulation of definite antibiotic policy may be helpful for reducing the incidence of nosocomial infection. Suitable and possible alternate chemotherapeutic compounds which are of plant origin may be tried for effective means of controlling drug resistant bacteria like MRSA.

2 tables, 14 ref

012629   Tekade P V;Patil K N;Bodkhe P S;Hande D V (NO, , C/o Prof. V.B. Patil, Plot No. 48, Vivekanand Nagar, Nalwadi, Nagpur Road, Wardha-442 001, Email: pradiptekade@yahoo.com ) : Antifungal activities of substituted 3, 5-diaryl-4-aroyl isoxazolines. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2009, 11(1), 147-9.

Some new chloro substituded 4-aroyl isoxazolines were synthesised. These heterocycles were tested for antifungal activities against test fungi like Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger and Curvalaria lunata. The zones of inhibition are measured and reported.

1 table, 10 ref

012628   Sharma M;Aparna;Yadav S (Microbiology Dep, Pt. B.D. Sharma, PGIMS, Rohtak, Haryana) : Nanobacteria-the smallest form of life?. Indian med Gaz 2009, 143(10), 398-400.

Nanobacteria are "nano" sized in that they are from 20-200 nanometers in size and are described as the smallest known self replicating bacteria. The talk that nanobacteria exist has been around for a long time at least since early 1980's. Found in human blood samples and meteorites, these elusive organisms have been thought to be progenitors of life on earth. They may play a pathogenic role in a number of diseases but it is still a controversy whether they are bacteria, new living forms or nothing more than sub-microscopic balls of minerals and proteins.

16 ref

012627   Selvakumar G;Sundararaman M (Biotechnology Dep, Mepco Schlenk Engineering College, Sivakasi, Tamilnadu-626 005, Email: micselva@rediffmail.com) : Seasonal variations of cyanobacterial flora in the backwater of Kattumavadi (Palk strait), India. Scient Trans Envir Technovation 2009, 3(2), 69-73.

Availability and diversity of cyanobacteria varied seasonally in the backwater of Kattumavadi (Palk Strait) during the year 2002. Totally, twelve species of unicellular and filamentous species of cyanobacteria belonging to either Chroococcaceae or Oscillatoriaceae families were observed. Phormidium fragile was predominant throughout the year followed by Osdllatoria curviceps. Lyngbya hieronymusii, Oscillatoria trichoides, O. salina, O. subbrevis, Phormidium tenue and Gloeocapsa magma were observed in all seasons, however with less frequency. Microcystis aeruginosa and Spirulina subsalsa were observed in all seasons except in monsoon season, whereas, Synechococcus sp. was observed in premonsoon and postmonsoon seasons.

3 tables, 20 ref

012626   Sayyed R Z;Naphade B S;Joshi S A;Gangurde N S;Bhamare H M;Chincholkar S B (PG Dep of Microbiology, G.B. Patel Science and STSKVS Commerce College, Shahada, Distt. Nandurbar-425 409, Email: riyaz829@indiatimes.com) : Consortium of A. feacalis and P. fluorescens promoted the growth of Arachis hypogaea (Groundnut). Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2009, 11(1), 83-6.

Plant growth promoting ability of A. feacalis and P. fluorescens NCIM 5096 was examined in A. hypogea at various levels viz. plate, pot and field levels. Co-inoculation of A feacalis with P. fluorescens NCIM 5096 showed enhanced plant growth in A. hypogea than single inoculation with either of these two rhizobacteria. After 90 days of sowing, it resulted in 21.39% increase in shoot length, 16.30% increase in root length, 43.05% increase in chlorophyll content, 22.51% increase in number of pods and 31.25% increase in number of branches.

1 table, 23 ref

012625   Sayadi M H;Shabani N (Environmental Science Dep, Pune Univ, Pune-411 007, Email: mh_sayadi@yahoo.com) : Interaction of mycorrhizal fungi and rhizobium on two kind of clover with different root systems. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2009, 11(1), 189-94.

The study investigated the effects of interactions between the Rhizobium and Mycorrhizal fungi on nitrogen and phosphors accumulation, increased N and P content, biomass production and percentage of colonization by Trifolium subterraneam and Trifolium alexanderinum. The plants were grown in a greenhouse until the flowering stage. The obtained results demonstrated that the inoculation of clovers increased the plants biomass, content of P and N and colonization of mycorrhizal in comparison with single and uninoculation with microorganisms under the study. But T. subterraneam with finely branched and hairy roots had lower response to mycorrhizal associations. The result indicated that the synergistic or additive interactions among the components of Rhizobium, Mycorrhizal and plants association increased plant productivity.

5 illus, 29 ref

012624   Satish Kumar;Khan M;Araf M;Hamal I A (Botany Dep, Jammu Univ, Jammu-180 006, Email: satish.bot@gmail.com) : Indigenous medicinal plants of kishtwar high altitude national park (Northwest Himalaya) Jammu and Kashmir, India-diversity, uses and conservation concerns. Bioscan 2009, 4(2), 335-43.

Paper surveys the medicinal use of wild plants by local people in Kishtwar High Altitude National Park National (Northwest Himalaya) Jammu and Kashmir, India. A total of 124 species used for a range of medicinal purposes are listed. Majority of these medicinal plants are herbs followed by trees and shrubs. The plant parts used for medicinal preparations by the indigenous people are leaf, root, bark, flower, fruit, rhizome, tuber, wood, etc. In some cases the whole plant was utilized. The most favourable utilized plant part was the root, followed by leaf whole plant fruit flower aerial parts, bark, seeds and rhizome. The herbal preparations are used in treatment of respiratory tract infections, gastro-intestinal problems, skeleto-muscular problems, dermatological problems, cuts and wounds, dental, cardiovascular system etc. The preparation methods included decoction, juice, oil, paste, powder, extract, smoke, and even raw (unprocessed). The plants were also important as tonic, astringent, anthelminthic, insecticide and incense stick.

5 illus, 1 table, 23 ref

012623   Sarkar P D;Arora R K;Potey G G (Biochemistry Dep, N.S.C.B. Medical College, Jabalpur) : Zinc and copper levels in protein-energy malnourished serum children residing in Indore district. Biochem Cell Archs 2009, 9(1), 43-5.

Protein-energy malnutrition has been identified as major health problems in India. This study was done in 100 children (age l-4years) suffering from protein-energy malnutrition and compared it with apparently healthy children(100) which served as control. The antioxidants which were studied were zinc, copper and iron and it was seen that children suffering from protein-energy malnutrition have significantly low levels as compared to healthy children (p<0.05).

2 tables, 25 ref

012622   Roy A S;Thati V;Anilkumar K R;Ambika Prasad M V N;Gaddad S M (Materials Science Dep, Gulbarga Univ, Gulbarga, Karnataka, Email: Prasad1_Amb@rediffmail.com) : Synergic effect of nanostructured zinc oxide with different antibiotics against staphylococcus aureus. Bionano Front 2010, NCANDT(spl), 77-81.

The different investigation has been carried out on the biological activities ofjzinc, nano particles but the effect of this nano product on the antibacterial activity of different antibiotics has not been demonstrated. In this study the enhancement effect of zinc nano particle on the antibacterial activity of different antibiotics was evaluated against Staphylococcus aureus. Disk diffusion method was used to determine the antibacterial activity of these antibiotics in the absence and presence of sub inhibitory concentration of zinc nano particle. A clinical isolate of S. aureus was used as test strain. In the presence of sub-inhibitory concentration of zinc nano particles (100 iig/disc) the antibacterial activities of cefixime, cephotaxime, vancomycin and tetracycline have been increased against test strain. The highest fold increase in area was observed for cefixime against S. aureus (a 52.6% increase in inhibition zone surface area). Also the increases in inhibition zone areas (%) for cephotaxime, vancomycin and tetracycline were 24.9%, 26.5% and 24.4%, respectively. No enhancing effect on the antibacterial activities of others antibiotics was detected against S. aureus at content of lOOug/disc. Conversely, in case of nalidixic acid, zinc nanoparticle showed an antagonistic effect on the antibacterial activity of this antibiotic against test strain. These results signify that the zinc nano particles potentiate the antimicrobial action of cefixime, cephotaxime, vancomycin and tetracycline suggesting a possible utilization of nano compound in combination therapy against S. aureus.

4 illus, 1 table, 15 ref

012621   Ramakrishna S;Manohar Reddy B;Rajendra Prasad S;Bhaskar M (NO, , Swati Store Wel (Pvt) Ltd. Room No.18-1013, P.H. High Road, Opposite Railway Station, Chittor-517 001, Email: rksreerama@yahoo.co.in) : Alterations in nutritional indices of silkworm larvae, Bombyx mori (L.) on administration of thyroxine hormone. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2009, 11(1), 71-6.

The silkworm, Bombyx mori (L) hybrid (PMx NB₄D₂) were fed on V₁ variety of mulberry leaves treated with thyroxine hormone (1mL of thyroxine solution sprayed on 5g. of mulberry leaves) in every day every feeding from the first day of III instar to end of the V instar. The effect of thyroxine on ingesta, consumption index, egesta, digesta and approximate digestibility was analysed in III instar, IV instar and V instar silkworm larvae on treated with thyroxine hormone. In III instar the ingesta was recorded significant reduction when compared to control. In contrast, the IV and V instar larvae exhibited significant elevation over control. The consumption index of the III and IV instar silkworm larvae showed non significant change with significant increase in V instar over control. The egesta was significantly elevated in HI, IV instars and decreased in V instar larvae over control. The digesta exhibited significant reduction in III instar larvae, where as in IV and V instars the same was recorded significant increase on administration of thyroxine over control. The approximate digestibility showed non significant change in III instar with a significant increase in IV and V instar larvae over control. The above results envisages that the induction of thyroxine hormone induced significant alterations in digestion of food by silkworm larvae in different developmental stages leading to the assimilation of nutrients by increasing nutritional efficiency to improve the cocoon production.

3 tables, 33 ref

012620   Rakh R R;Dalvi S;Raut L S;Manwar A V (Microbiology and Botany Dep, Shri Guru Buddhiswami Mahavidyalaya, Purna, Maharashtra) : In vitro antagonistic effect of rhizospheric bacteria against Sclerotium rolfsii. Bioinfolet 2009, 6(3), 280-1.

Bacteria isolated from soil were tested for antagonistic activity against Sclerotium rolfsii. All isolates showed antagonistic activity against the pathogen.

1 table, 6 ref

012619   Prasad S M;Srivastava P K;Singh V P;Singh D (Botany Dep, Allahabad Univ, Allahabad-211 002, Email: sheomohanp@yahoo.co.in) : Neem leaf aqueous extract induced changes in biomass accumulation, photosynthetic activity and status of reactive oxygen species, lipid peroxidation and enzymatic antioxidants in cyanobacterium Plectonema boryanum. Biochem Cell Archs 2009, 9(1), 103-11.

Biomass accumulation, light harvesting pigments, photosynthetic potential and the status of reactive oxygen species, lipid peroxidation and enzymatic antioxidants of cyanobacterium Plectonema boryanum, grown in BG11 mineral medium added with different concentrations of neem leaf aqueous extract (1,2,4 and 8 %), were analyzed. Stimulatory effects on growth, pigment contents, photosynthetic electron transport activity, and photosynthetic oxygen yield and ^{14C- fixation were recorded following low dose (1 and 2 % extract) exposure. However, high concentrations (4 and 8 %) of extract produced appreciable depression in these parameters. Similarly, PS II and whole chain activities were substantially retarded following the treatment of spheroplasts with high doses of extract while PS I activity was least affected. Partial restoration in PS n activity in the presence of exogenous electron donors (DPC, NHjOH and MnCI₂ suggests that inhibition in O₂ evolution was probably due to interruption of electron flow at the water oxidation side of PS II and further extended to reaction center at the highest tested dose of extract This study clearly demonstrates that high concentrations (4 and 8 %) of extract after 4 days of treatment declined the growth of cyanobacterium significantly by inhibiting the key biochemical process i.e. photosynthesis and inducing the cellular zzlipid peroxidation as consequence of accelerated generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS; O₂;- H₂₃O₂), despite the enhanced activity of enzymatic antioxidants: superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD) and catalase (CAT). In contrast to this, high dose of extract following prolonged exposure also supported the growth of P. boryanum as recorded with low dose of extract. The study pin points the application of neem leaf aqueous extract to accelerate the biomass accumulation in cyanobacteria that can support the paddy as biofertilizer and could be used in industry to generate several useful products.}

4 illus, 1 table, 54 ref

012618   Paramesha M;Ramesh C K;Krishna V (P.G. Studies in Biotechnology Dep, Sahyadri Science College (Autonomou, Kuvempu Univ, Shivamogga-577 203, Email: ckramck@yahoo.co.in) : Anthelmintic, antibacterial and antiviral activities in methanol extract from leaves of Carthamus tinctorius, annegeri-2. Bioscan 2009, 4(2), 301-4.

In the present research investigation, methanol extract from the leaves of Carthamus tinctorius, Annegeri-2 was subjected to screen anthelmintic, antibacterial and antiviral activities. The anthelmintic activity of the extract at 10 different concentrations (0.1 % to 1.0%) was performed on Indian earthworm Pheretima posthuma using Albendazole as standard drug for comparison. The efficacy of extract was studied for determining time of paralysis and time of death of worms. The test groups of the study exhibited significant reduction in time duration for both the parameters beyond the concentrations of 0.5%. The antibacterial activity was carried out by utilizing three different pathogens viz. Pseudomonas auerogenosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Klebsiella pneumonias. The zone of inhibition was determined utilizing the agar disc diffusion method at the concentration of 5, 10, 15 and 20% of the extract prepared in DMSO. For comparison Ciprofloxacin was used as standard reference. The results of antibacterial studies revealed that, the extent of inhibition is positively correlated to the concentration of the extract and among the bacteria tested. Pseudomonas auerogenosa was found to be more sensitive than the other two bacteria. The antiviral activity of the extract was studied against tobacco viruses viz. Tobacco Mosaic Virus (TMV) and Tomato Mosaic Virus (ToMV) by utilizing three concentrations of the extract (50,100,150ppm). The percent protection in terms of lesions formed was found to be concentration dependent and maximum percent protection was observed at 150ppm. Further, the percentage protection was higher against TMV when compared to ToMV. The efficacy of the methanoiic extract for anthelmintic. antibacterial and antiviral activities is discussed.

4 tables, 25 ref

012617   Pandey B V;Upadhyay R S (Laboratory of Plant Pathology and Microbial Technology, Botany Dep, Banaras Hindu Univ, Varanasi-221 005, Email: bvpandey@yahoo.com) : Biodegradation of textile dyes by free and immobilized cells of microorganisms. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2009, 11(1), 235-9.

Four commercially used textile dyes namely, Procion Red Yellow, Acid Yellow-9 and Crystal Violet were better decolorized under aerobic liquid culture but Direct Orange-102 was comparatively more resistant to decolorization. Decolorization increased with the increase in incubation period. However, the efficiency decreased with increase in dyestuff concentration. Degradation was best achieved by immobilized cells as compared to free cells.

6 tables, 22 ref

012616   Omenwa V C;Ansa E J;Agokei E O;Uka A;George O S (African Regional Aquacultue Centre/Nigerian Institute for Ocenography, , P.M.B. 5122, Port Harcourt, Nigeria, Email: lizagokei@yahoo.com) : Microbiological quality of raw, boiled and oven-roasted farm-reared mangrove oyster, Crassostrea gasar. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2009, 11(1), 13-17.

The microbiological quality of raw, boiled and oven roasted oysters were determined. The study was based on isolation and density enumeration of microbe indicator organisms and other pathogens. Thirty oysters' samples were analyzed from each of the raw, boiled and roasted samples. Salmonella typhi, Shigella dysenteriae, Escherichia coil, Erwinia amylovora and Aerobacter aerogenes were detected in the raw oysters with mean bacterial count of 1.73x10^{6 cfu/g. The boiled ad roasted oysters contained only Bacillus cereus and Bacillus subtilis respectively. However, traces of non-pathogenic Staphylococcus sp. and Micrococcus luteus were also found in the boiled and roasted samples. The mean bacterial count in boiled and in the roasted oysters were <100 cfu/g. The fungi Mucor mucedo and Rhizopus nigricans were also isolated from roasted oyster meat due to poor handling. The mean fungal count in the roasted oyster meat was <10. The isolation of faecal coliforms and other pathogenic microorganisms was considered a high medical risk especially in places where oysters are eaten raw.}

2 tables, 19 ref

012615   Nasare P N;Wadhave N S;Harney N V;Sitre S R (Botany Dep, Nikanthrao Shinde Science and Arts College, Bhadrawati, District-Cjandrapur, Maharashtra) : Phytoplankton diversity of khadki lake, Bengali camp, Bhadrawati, district Chandrapur, Maharashtra, India. Bioinfolet 2009, 6(3), 232-4.

1 table, 10 ref

012614   Mithilesh Singh;Saini D;Ram G C;Goswami T K (Immunology Sect, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar-243 122) : Single step chromatographic and enzymatic technique for purification and digestion of mouse IgG. J Immun Immunopath 2008, 10(1), 60-4.

Simple, two-step procedure to purify the immunoglobulin G (IgG) fraction from mouse sera is described. The rationale for the procedure is, firstly, to precipitate the mouse serum with ammonium sulphate and secondly, to subject the precipitate to ion exchange chromatography with DE-52 column. DE-52 chromatography following ammonium sulphate precipitation was found to be a quite satisfactory method for the reasonable purification of mouse immunoglobulin (IgG) as observed in SDS-PAGE. Thereafter, the optimum condition for digestion of mouse IgG with papain has been standardized. The controlled digestion procedure followed for the cleavage of the immunoglobulin in the study was quite significant and yielded a 25, 55 and 110 kDa peptide which were represented as Fc, Fab and F(ab)₂ fragments, respectively.

4 illus, 17 ref

012613   Matsumoto S;Vestergaard M;Konishi T;Nishikori S;Shiraki K;Tsuji N;Hirata K;Takagi M (NO, School of Materials Science, Japan Advanced Institute of Science and T, 1-1 Asahidai, Nomi City, Ishikawa 923-1292, Japan, Email: takagi@jaist.ac.jp) : Role of C-terminal Cys-rich region of phytochelatin synthase in tolerance to cadmium ion toxicity. J Pl Biochem Biotechnol 2009, 18(2), 175-80.

Phytochelatins (PCs) are Cys-rich peptides, synthesized by PC synthase in response to heavy metal ions. The C-terminal Cys-rich region of the PC synthase has homology with functional domains of metallochaperone, metallothionein and thioredoxin. To test the possibility that the C-terminal Cys-rich region of PC synthase has a role in regulating PC synthesis, introduced point mutations into the PC synthase, replacing Cys^{358, Cys359, Cys363 and Cys366 residues with Ala. The mutant PC synthase had a lower PC synthesis ability than the wild-type enzyme. Further, oxidative conditions severely damaged mutant PC synthase whilst the wild-type enzyme suffered less damage, suggesting that the Cys-rich region of PC synthase may play an important role in anti-oxidation activity. Although the C-terminal of PC synthase is not conserved, authors studies support the possibility that this region performs several important biological functions.}

6 illus, 23 ref

012612   Mann A;Amupitan J O;Oyewale A O;Okogun J I; Ibrahim K (Sciecne Lab Technology Dep, The Federal Polytechnic, Bida, P.M.B. 55, Bida, Niger State, Nigeria, Email: abdumann@yahoo.com) : Chemistry of secondary metabolites and their antimicrobial activity in the drug development process: a review of the genus Anogeissus. Med Pl 2009, 1(2), 55-7.

Significance of secondary metabolites as antimicrobial agents and its chemistry in the drug development process is reviewed. The genus Anogeissus (Combretaceae) is widely distributed in most tropical and subtropical countries of the world. Anogeissus is a genus of trees, shrubs or small trees. The genus has eight species, five native to South Asia, two indigenous to the southern Arabian Peninsula, and one native to Africa. Anogeissus have long been used in traditional medicine to treat a broad spectrum of disorders. Chemical constituents isolated from genus Anogeissus so far include amino acids, terpenoids (and their glycoside derivatives); steroids; flavonoids and their glycosides; tannins and other phenolic compounds and lignan. The focus of the review has been on the phytochemistry of the species of Anogeissus and the bioactivities of their various metabolites for general potential in drug development.

^iia4 tables, 133 ref

012611   Khatri P K;Barua K N;Gogoi G (NO, Rain Forest Research Institute, Jorhat, Assam) : Structure and composition of Dipterocarp forest of Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary, Assam. J Econ Taxon Bot 2009, 33(3), 614-20.

Phyto-sociological studies of vegetation were carried out in three sites, viz. plantation, natural and disturbed site in Dipterocarp Forest of Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary, Assam. The most dominant species in three sites was found to be Dipterocarpus retusus (Hollong) and other coªdominant species were Vatica lancaeifolia and Mesua ferrea. Utmost floristic diversity was observed in natural site. Maximum basal area per hectare was noted in plantation site reveals dominance of mature trees. Highest natural regeneration of M. ferrea seedlings was recorded under open canopy patches as this species had favoured sufficient sunlight, which triggers the physiological function of germination and establishment of seedlings.

5 illus, 2 tables, 13 ref

012610   Khanna P;Tripathi N K (Zoology Dep, Government College for Women, Parade Ground, Jammu-180 001, Email: pragyajmu2002@yahoo.co.in) : Genotoxic effect of lead acetate on polytene chromosomes of Chironomus plumosus from B (Chironomidae: Diptera). J appl Biosci 2009, 35(2), 150-4.

In chromosome arms AB, CD, EF, and G a significantly high frequency of chromosome aberrations was observed in the larvae exposed to lead acetate. Deletions in chromosome arm G occurred in high frequency, while heterozygous inversions and instances of asynapsis were recorded in the other three chromosome arms. These structural alterations are interpreted as a reaction of the genome to the stressful rearing conditions.

6 illus, 1 table, 21 ref

012609   Khan A A;Agrawal S;Khan A (Botany Dep, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh-202 002) : Grasses of Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary, Uttar Pradesh (India). J Econ Taxon Bot 2009, 33(3), 574-84.

Documents the grass flora of Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary, Uttar Pradesh, India. A total of 109 species belonging to 61 genera are reported. Eragrostis Wolf is the largest genus represented by 12 species. Comparison with an earlier published work revealed a change in species composition over last fifty years. Twenty grass speceis collected during the study were not reported earlier and thirty five species reported earlier were not collected during the study.

11 ref

012608   Kamble S M;Koparkar A D;Tapase S D (P.G. Dep of Zoology, S.M.D. Mohekar Mahavidyalaya, Kallam, Osmanabad-413 507, Email: smdmmkl@sify.com) : Effect of sublethal concentrations of sevin (Carbryl) on glutamic oxalacetic transaminase (Got) and glutamic pyruvic transaminase (GPT) activity in hepatopancreas and foot of freshwater mussel, Lamellidens marginalis (Lamarck). Bioscan 2009, 4(2), 347-8.

Changes in Glutamic oxalacetic transaminase (GOT) and Glutamic pyruvic transaminase (GPT) activities in hepatopancreas and foot were observed in freshwater mussel, Lamellidens marginalis (Lamarck), when subjected to sublethai concentrations of Sevin and over a time period of exposure. GOT and GPT activities decreased with increase in sublethai concentration of Sevin at the end of each exposure periods are discussed in relation to the different sublethai concentrations of Sevin insecticide.

2 tables, 5 ref

012607   Johri P K;Tiwari D;Johri R (Zoology Dep, D.A.V. College, Kanpur-208 001, Email: kumar_pee@yahoo.com) : Effect of some medicinal plant extracts with antifertility properties in relation to haematology and biochemistry in controland experimental female albino rats. Biochem Cell Archs 2009, 9(1), 25-32.

The plants viz. Abrusprecatorius (Linn.) (Tl), Cedrus deodara (Roxb.) Loud. (T2),Actinopteris detchoma (Bedd.) (T3),Artabotrys hexapetalus (Linn.F.Bhandri) (T4),MallotusphiUppensis (Muell.-Arg.) (T5), Ocimumtenuiflorum (Linn.) (T6),Jasminum arborescens (Roxb.) (T7),Moringa oldfera (Lam.) (T8),Peganum harmala (Linn.) (T9) undMomordica tuberosa (Roxb.) Cogl. (T10) acknowledged in Ayurvedic literature for their antifertility properties, were screened under consideration of systematical clinical observations on the female albino rats by giving them effective doses for 15 days in context of hematological and biochemical parameters. The results indicated that the extract ofActinopteris detchoma (T3), whole plant however, contained antifertility properties but disturbed the hematological and biochemical parameters due to which loss of body weight was found in experimental rats. The phytochemical constitution of this plant conclude that it is a rich source of potassium nitrate along with general antibiotic properties. The normal mice were unable to cope with higher potassium content in the body and therefore, it might be the cause of abnormalities in haematology and particularly in liver panel of the treated animals. Pharmacokinetics illustrate that variation in extra cellular potassium, influences the activity of striated muscles so that paralysis of skeletal muscles and abnormalities in conduction and activity of cardiac muscles occur. The symptoms of hyperkalemia (higher percentage of potassium) are mainly develops :- (i) Cardiac and central nervous system depression (ii) Mental confusion (iii) Weakness, numbness (iv) Weakness of respiratory muscles. However, in rest of the treatments the animal did not respond any adverse effects of the selected antifertility herbs in relation to hematological and biochemical parameters.

5 tables, 13 ref

012606   Jagadeesh V (Anthropology Karnatak Univ Dep, Karnatak Arts College, Dharawad-580 001, Email: drvjagadeesh@gmail.com ) : Anthropological study of lamani tribe and modern agricultural system. Bull agric Sci 2009, 7(2), 73-7.

Lamanies of Bellary District are of the opinion that they are migrated from Rajasthan and possess unique settlements in the Karnataka State. They live scattered all over the state but they are distinctly identified by their dress pattern and language. The aim of the present paper is to highlight how modern agricultural technology, affecting the life of Lamani tribe in Bellary District of Karnataka State.

7 tables, 6 ref

012605   Goswami H K (NO, , 24, Kaushalnagar, P.O. Misrod, Bhopal-420 164, Email: goswamihk@yahoo.com) : Dispersal of genes in evolution : II. conserved DNA sequences are evolutionary signals in the human genome. Bionature 2009, 29(1), 39-46.

The truth inherent in evolutionary conservation has now been realized that humans have DNA stretches faithfully transmitted and brilliantly copied for billions and billions of years. Human genome comprises of large number of DNA sequences whose presence is well proven among organisms evolved during Pre Cambrian and thereafter. Human genome has many genes exactly similar to variety of organisms referrable to animalia; this short review highlights about DNA sequences also found among some plants. The hypothesis is that DNA stretches must have been ceaselessly replicated during early phases of evolution and DNA sequences got randomly distributed among trillion cells and evolving organisms. This gets upheld by series of observations based on Southern hybridization studies and also, by blasting sequenced genomic DNA from small aquatic weed the quillwort, Isoetes pantii, and Ginkgo biloba (maiden hair tree) with the human genome using gene bank public data base (http:www.ncbi.nim.nih.gov). Ancestors and related species of these extant genera have had flourished during 150 to 300 million years ago; this is intriguing that these plants also possess some genes exhibiting 50 to 80% concordant DNA stretches of many loci on human chromosomes. Relevance of this unity and diversity among dispersal of DNA sequences is that human genes are not "exclusive" to human being. So, obviously, the genome is an admixture - package of DNA sequences; many of them had had got randomly dispersed several billion years ago in organisms which were, then on the track of biological evolution sometime in Pre Cambrian.

36 ref

012604   Goel A;Kumar D;Bhatia A K (Microbiology and Immunology Dep, College of Veterinary Sciences, Uttar Pradesh Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhy, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh) : Modulation of immune responses by aqueous extract of Argemone mexicana leaves. J Immun Immunopath 2008, 10(1), 65-9.

Nontoxic dose of Argemone mexicana aqueous leaves extract was determined in albino rats as well as in rabbits by giving different quantities (ranging from 50 mg/kg to 500 mg/kg body weight) orally for 20 days. The 250 mg/kg body weight of A. mexicana aqueous extract of leaves was used as an ideal and safe nontoxic dose. Immunomodulatory effect of filtered aqueous extract of A. mexicana leaves was studied in albino rats. A group of 4 albino rats were fed orally with 250 mg/kg body weight/day for 23 days. Cell mediated immune response was measured by total lymphocyte count, E-rosette formation and Di-nitro chloro benzene (DNCB) sensitized hypersensitivity test. An 18% decrease in rosette forming cell in A. mexicana aqueous leaves extract fed rats was noted. Percentage of lymphocyte separated on Histopaque 1077 from peripheral blood was also decreased to the level of 26% showed lymphocytopenia. DNCB hypersensitivity test showed 5.26% increase in thickness at 24 hours where as control showed 47.36% increase in thickness. Comparing with control, inhibition of 88.8% and 83.3% was calculated at 24 and 48 hours, respectively. These studies showed the T-cell suppressive effect of aqueous extract of A. mexicana leaves. Humoral immunoregulatory profile to antigenic challenge of Salmonella typhimurium by quantitating the agglutinating antibodies by tube agglutination test indicated a significant increase in antibody titer in the serum 1:1280 in comparison to control stating 1:320. These studies show that A. mexicana leaves extract is a humoral immune response enhancer and cell mediated immunosuppressive agent. This might be beneficial in autoimmune diseases related to cell mediated immunity and organ transplantation.

4 tables, 13 ref

012603   Garg V K;Singh G K;Chauhan R S;Dhote B S; Saxena S (Anatomy Dep, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, GB Pant University of Agirc, Pantnagar-263 145) : Augmentation of cell mediated immune response with ageing in Kadaknath fowl. J Immun Immunopath 2008, 10(1), 42-5.

Cell mediated immunity (CMI) is mainly associated with the T-lymphocytes. Augmentation of the cell mediated immunity with advancing age was appraised using lymphocyte stimulation test (LST) with Con A as mitogen and delayed type hypersensitivity reaction (DTH) with dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB) as allergen. The mean delta OD of Con A stimulated T-cell culture was 0.109, 0.279, 0.339, 0.365 and 0.373 during the 1st, 3rd, 6th, 9th and 26th week of age respectively. The gross lesions, after challenge by the allergen DNCB, incorporated erythema, indurations, ulceration and scab formation. The mean skin thickness at 0, 12, 24, 36 and 48 hours post challenge was recorded as 2.98±0.28, 3.14±0.31, 3.36±0.32, 3.61±0.35, 3.72±0.35 mm respectively. These values for control skin were 2.65±0.26, 2.72±0.27, 2.76±0.28, 2.78±0.28 and 2.77±0.27 mm on corresponding hours of observation. The study demonstrated an increase in blastogenic response of T-cells from 1st wk to 26th week of age.

1 illus, 1 table, 18 ref

012602   Dutta S P S;Chowdhary S;Sharma S (Environmental Sciences Dep, Jammu Univ, Jammu & Kashmir-180 006, Email: shalini.sharma59@yahoo.co.in) : Ecology of plankton of some ground water irrigated paddy fields at badyal brahamana, R.S. pura, Jammu (J and K). Bioscan 2009, 4(2), 325-33.

Abiotic characteristics of water and plankton were analysed from four ground water irrigated paddy fields at Badyal Brahamana, R.S. Pura, Jammu (J and K) during July, 2002 to October, 2002 and have been described. Phytoplankton has shown the dominance of Bacillariophyceae (14 genera) followed by Chlorophyceae (12 genera) and Cyanophyceae (6 genera). Zooplankton is dominated by Protozoa 18 species) followed by Rotifera (13 species), Arthopoda (9 species) and Nematoda. Diversity and density of plankton remained low during preparation of fields for seedlings transplantation and during seedlings transplantation. Co-efficient of correlation (r) of phytoplankton and zooplankton, with various parameters of water is insignificant.

5 tables, 24 ref

012601   Baskaran M;Thiyagesan K (Wildlife Biology Div, P.G. and Research Dep of Zoology, A.V.C. College, Mayiladuthurai-609 305, Email: beebaskaran@rediffmail.com) : Antibacterial potential of honey samples of Apis cerana indica. Scient Trans Envir Technovation 2009, 3(2), 98-106.

Antibacterial potentials of honey samples collected from hill and plain regions of Tamilnadu, south India when tested against human pathogenic bacteria viz., Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, Clostridium perfringens, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, showed region-wise differences only with regard to 3. aureus, B. cereus and C. perfringens. However, different concentrations of honey samples differed significantly (ANOVA; F<0. 05) in their efficacy against all the bacterial species tested.

6 illus, 1 table, 16 ref