012600   Aruna S;Vijayalakshmi K;Shashikanth M;Surekha Rani M;Jyothi K;Prasanna N D;Shasheen S K;Pavana Jyotsna K (NO, , H No. I-67,ShantiNagar, Varasthali Puram Post, Hyderabad-500 010, Email: arunashashi12@yahoo.co.in) : Optimization of antibiotic compound produced by Streptomyces sp. isolated from earthworm gut (Eisenia foetida). Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2009, 11(1), 77-82.

Screening was performed to detect the antimicrobial activity exhibiting Actinomycetes from earthworm gut. Twenty isolates were obtained and among them 9 isolates showed good activity. AS1 isolate showed higher activity when compared to other strains. Influence of different media, carbon and nitrogen sources and different physical parameters like temperature, pH and Nad concentration, effect of incubation period on antibiotic production was studied. Optimum conditions for maximum production of compound were deduced from the studies. Based on morphological and biochemical characteristics the isolate AS1 was detected to be Streptomyces sp., having broad-spectrum antagonistic activity against a wide range of pathogenic and plant pathogenic bacteria and phytopathogenic fungi.

7 illus, 4 tables

012599   Anandhan A;Hemalatha S (Zoology Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalai Nagar-608 002, Email: raman_anadhan@yahoo.co.in ) : Biochemical changes in selected tissues of the zebra fish, Brachydanio rerio (Ham.) exposed to sublethal aluminium chloride. Bioscan 2009, 4(2), 315-19.

The effect of aluminium on protein, lipid and amino acid contents of brain, liver, gill and muscle of zebra fish, Brachydanio rerio have been studied. The fish were exposed to two different sublethal concentrations of aluminium low (10 % of LC₅₀) and high (30% LC₅₀ ) used for a period of 28 days.Among the four tissues studied control liver contain maximum quantity of protein (67.56 mg/ g),amino acids(3.15 mg/g) and total lipid (1.837 mg/g). The main alterations were significant decrease in protein and lipid but amino acids content increased in all the tissues in both sublethal concentrations. The results were found to be concentration of the toxicant and time dependent.

3 tables, 43 ref

012598   Agrawal S S;Talele G S (NO, R.C. Patel College of Pharmacy, Shirpur-425 405, Email: surendra_pharma@rediffmail.com) : Free radical scavenging activity of Capparis zeylanica. Med Pl 2009, 1(2), 109-12.

In vitro antioxidant potentiality of the fractions obtained from the methanolic extract of aerial part of Capparis zeylanica by 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) method and scavenging of superoxide anion radical-generated non-enzymatic system was studied. The Ethyl acetate (EF) and n-Butanol (BF) fractions had showed promising free radical scavenging effect of DPPH and free radical scavenging action against nitric oxide (NO) induced release of free radicals at the concentration 100 μg/ml. The BF showed more scavenging activity than other fractions, comparable to ascorbic acid (Reference Standard). Further studies may explore a potential free radical scavenger from the Capparis zeylanica.

3 tables, 22 ref

012597   Aggarwal R;Bhargava A K;Bhargava S (Botany Dep, M.S. College, Saharanpur-243 001) : Effect of cobalt on seedling growth of Cicer arietinum linn Cv. PG 110. Biochem Cell Archs 2009, 9(1), 47-9.

Observation shows that metal cobalt increase seedling growth of Cicer arietinum Linn cv. PG110 at lower concentration and inhibits growth at higher concentrations.

2 tables, 14 ref

012596   Aberomand M (Biochemistry Dep, Alwaz Jondi Shapur Univ of Medical Sciences, Ahwaz, Iran, Email: aberumand@yahoo.com) : Comparative pH optima of beta-galactosidase activity in partial purification of Citrus sinensis, Allium cepa, Allium sativum and Citrus lemon. Biochem Cell Archs 2009, 9(1), 57-8.

The enzyme β-galactosidase (β-D-galactohydrolase, lactase) occurs in nature very frequently, e.g. it is found in plants and animals, as well as in a wide variety of microorganisms including yeasts. β-Galactosidase is among the most common industrial enzymes due to its various applications in dairy and food industry. The enzyme was partial purified by procedures including precipitation with acetone, 1-butanol and ammonium sulfate from four fruits randomly selected. Optimum pH of β-galactosidase enzyme shows maximum activity for Orange (Citrus sinensis), Onion (Allium cepa), Garlic (Allium sativum) and Sweet lemon (Citrus lemon) at pH 3.6,4.4,6.0 and 4.4 were for selected fruits respectively. As a conclusion, in order to use fruit as a source of p-galactosidase activity, the Orange (Citrus sinensis) with optimum pH 3.6 is a good choice for purification.

1 illus, 1 table, 11 ref

012595   Abdel-Moneim A M (Zoology Dep, Faculty of Science, Alexandria Univ, Alexandria, Egypt, Email: ashraf_abdelmoneim@yahoo.com) : Mercuric chloride induced ultrastructural change sin hepatic and renal tissues of rats and the protective effects of vitamin C and E. Biochem Cell Archs 2009, 9(1), 113-22.

The study was performed to investigate whether oral administration of antioxidant vitamin C (ascorbic acid) and vitamin E (a-tocopherol) provided morphological protection on mercury-induced hepatic and renal tissue damage. Mercuric chloride (HgCl₂,2 mg/kg b.w.) was given alone or in combination with vitamin C (100 mg/kg b.w.) or vitamin E (50 mg/ kg b.w.) for 30 days. At the end of the experimental period, all the rats were sacrificed by decapitation. The liver and kidney specimens were obtained and then processed for electron microscopical examination. In Hg-alone group, hepatocytes displayed nucleus heterochromatin scattering, mitochondria! cristolysis and degranulation of rough endoplasmic reticulum. In addition, the glomeruli in kidney cortex had focal thickening of the basement membrane, an increase in mesengial matrix, fusion of the glomerular podocytes foot processes with focal obliteration of the filtration slits. Furthermore, the proximal convoluted tubule lining cells displayed swelling of the mitochondria with disordered cristae, increased lysosomal structures, nuclear envelope irregularity and segregation of nucleolus granular and fibrillar components, indicating severe damage. The severity of the lesions was reduced by administration of vitamin C and E. This amelioration was more pronounced in the group of rats treated with vitamin E. These results highlight the need to reduce exposure to Hg, with particular attention being paid to the known sources of Hg. At the same time, the maintenance of a diet that is rich in vitamin C and E should be beneficial in the alleviation of Hgtoxicity.

3 illus, 2 tables, 78 ref

011693   Yapici A N;Yapici B M;Karaboz I;Tozan M (Biga Vocational College, Canakkale Onsekiz Mart Univ, 17200 Biga, Canakkale, Turkey, Email: yapicin@comu.edu.tr) : In vitro assessment of the effectiveness of some bactericides on bacteria isolated from soaking float. Asian J Chem 2009, 21(2), 1521-5.

In this study, the effectiveness of 5 commercial bactericides commonly used in leather processing was examined in vitro. Bacteria were isolated from soak water by means of proteolytic bacteria culture medium, plate count agar (PCA) and halotolerant bacteria medium containing 10% NaCl and identified as Gram positive Staphylacoccus sp., Diplococcus sp., Micwcoccus sp., Corynobacterium sp., Bacillus sp. and Gram negative bacterium. The effectiveness of bactericides was determined in vitro on these bacteria through disc diffusion method. Results were evaluated in comparison with antimicrobial activities of some standard antibiotics on the same microorganisms. It was observed that Derbio DB 99® (bactericide I) was effective on all types of bacteria. Biocide B-7® (bactericide II) was effective on Staphylacoccus sp., Diplococcus sp. and Micrococcus sp. It was also observed that Aracit KL® (bactericides III) and Preventol Z-L® (bactericides IV) were effective only against Staphylacoccus sp. and Diplococcus sp. On the other hand, Pluscide HP® (bactericides V) did not show enough effectiveness. As a result, it was found out that the most effective bactericide was Bactericide I.

2 tables, 19 ref

011692   Winters C (NO, , COE G323, Governors State University, University Park, Illinois 60666, Email: c-winters@govst.edu) : East asian origin of the polynesians and melanesians. South Asian Anthrop 2008, 8(2), 125-8.

It is assumed that the Polynesians originated in Southeast Asia and that the Melanesians lived mostly in isolation in Melanesia since the region was settled 40,000 ybp. It is assumed that Oceanic and Polynesian populations had no contact prior to the Polynesian migration to the Pacific Islands. Although this is the popular opinion there is considerable craniometrical and skeletal evidence that place Polynesians and Melanesian people in close contact in East Asia. Given the archaeological record of intimate contact between Proto-Polynesians and Proto-Melanoids, neither a "slow boat" or "express train" explains the genetic relationship between the Melanesian and Polynesian populations. This record makes it clear that these populations lived in intimate contact for thousands of years and during this extended period of interactions both groups probably exchanged genes.

14 ref

011691   Talas Z S;Bayraktar N;Ozdemir I;Gok Y;Yilmaz I (Biology Dep, Faculty of Arts and Science, Nigde Univ, Nigde-511 100, Turkey) : Effects of synthetic organoselenium compounds on nitric oxide in DMBA - inducec rat liver. J envir Biol 2009, 30(4), 591-3.

DMBA (7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene) is known to generate DNA-reactive species during their metabolism, which may enhance oxidative stress in cells. Since selenium is known as a non-enzymic antioxidant, health problems induced by many environmental pollutants, have stimulated the evaluation of relative antioxidant potential of selenium and synthetic organoselenium compounds. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate chemopreventive potential of synthetic organoselenium compounds by monitoring level of liver nitric oxide. In this study, adult female Wistar rats were treated with DMBA and the novel organoselenium compounds (Se I) and (Se II) in the determined doses. DMBA-induced in rats, the effects of organoselenium compounds on nitric oxide levels in rat liver was studied. In this study, it has been observed a statistically significant increase in (Nitric Oxide) levels for the liver of rat exposed to DMBA (p< 0.05). However with administration of Se / and Se II there was a statistically significant decrease in NO levels (p< 0.05). The ability of the organoselenium compounds to prevent oxidative damage induced by DMBA in rat livers was rationalized. Protection against nitric oxide measured in Sel and Se II treated groups were provided by synthesized organoselenium compounds. Se I and Se II both provided chemoprevention against DMBA-induced oxidative stress in rat liver.

1 illus, 1 table, 23 ref

011690   Tabtabaiet F;Mortazavi A;Ebadi A G (Biology Dep, Islamic Azad Univ, Sari Branch, Sari 48164-194, Iran, Email: dr_ebadi2000@yahoo.com) : Effect of power ultrasound and microstructure change of casein micelle in yoghurt. Asian J Chem 2009, 21(2), 1589-94.

The changes in micro structural of yoghurt casein micelles during application power ultrasound has been investigated. The gel structure of yoghurt contributes strongly to its characteristic texture which is an important organoleptic property perceived by the consumer and strongly dependent on the distribution of porosity in network of case gel. The experimental results demonstrated that the microstructure of ultrasound treated milk yoghurt for 0, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 min at 20 KHz frequency, had more interconnected chains of regularly-shaped casein micelles, with reduced particle size as well as more spherical in shape, exhibiting a smooth more regular surface and presenting more uniform size distribution and more homogenous porosity. This work offer the power ultrasound improved the gel texture and useful in manufacturing process of yoghurt.

7 illus, 10 ref

011689   Sharma A;Chandra S;Sharma M (NO, , E-182, Bank Colony, Murlipura Scheme, Jaipur-302 013) : Prevalence of keratinophilic fungi in semi-arid region, with particular reference to soil pH.. Asian J expl Sci 2010, 24(1), 59-63.

The enzymatic ability of fungi to decompose keratin has long been interpreted as a key innovation. The biological function of keratinophilic fungi in the soil is to degrade keratinized material such as hides, claws and horns of dead animals. In the present investigation prevalence and distribution of keratinophilic fungi in semi-arid region was studied. Some of the soil samples yielded a single species and other samples yielded a mixture of species of keratinophilic fungi. The mixture of population contained Microsporum canis, Microsporum gypseum, Trichophyton rubrum, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, Epidermophyton floccosum, Chrysosporium tropicum, Chrysosporium keratinophilurn, Aspergillus fumigatus, Fusarium oxysporum, Fusarium moniliforme, Histoplasma capsulatum and Torula species. The industrial soil samples were most diverse in fungal flora.

2 tables, 17 ref

011688   Ravangave L S;Gachhe A G;Kathare R V;Mundhe B S;Jamdhade V M;Pawar B H (Physics Dep, Shri Sant Gadge Maharaj College, Loha Dist. Nanded, Maharashtra) : Nutrient deficiency and pigment analysis using absorption and synchronous luminescence spectroscopy. Bionano Front 2010, ICLAM(spl), 18-20.

Absorption and synchronous luminescence spectroscopy (SL) are employed to investigate the effect of deficiency of nutrients nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K). The chlorophyll-a, chlorophyll-b and total chlorophyll, was estimated, from the young sunflower leaf. The absorption ratio A₄₃₀/A663 obtained using the data of absorption spectra. The intensity of synchronous luminescence spectra was studied. The total chlorophyll, chlorophyll - a, chlorophyll - b are decreased and A430/A663 ratio is increased in nutrient deficient plants. The intensity of synchronous luminescence is increased for stressed plants as compared to normal plants. It is concluded that the synchronous luminescence spectroscopy is vital tool in pigment analysis.

2 illus, 2 tables, 8 ref

011687   Ranganath V;Manjunath K (Anatomy Dep, St. John's Medical College, Sarjapur Road, Bangalore-560 034, Email: rangal1176@gmail.com) : Morphological variations of foramen transversarium of cervical vertebrae. South Asian Anthrop 2008, 8(2), 153-8.

The foramina transversaria are subject to a number of variations in size, shape, absence and duplication. A total number of 624 FT from 312 dry adult cervical vertebrae have been used for this study, of which 35 numbers were atlases, 42 were axis, 32 numbers were 7th cervical vertebrae (vertebra prominens) and 203 typical cervical vertebrae. Using a sliding caliper the maximum and minimum diameters of the FT were measured to the nearest millimeter. The frequency of occurrence of the variant types of the foramina transversaria, according to their diameters and indices and other anomalies in a collection of cervical vertebrae were studied and the results were compared with other studies.

3 illus, 4 tables, 16 ref

011686   Rajkumar M;Perumal P;Ashok Prabu V;Vengadesh Perumal N;Thillai Rajsekar K (Centre of Advanced Study in Marine Biology, Annamalai Univ, Parangipettai-608 502) : Phytoplankton diversity in pichavaram mangrove waters from south-east coast of India. J envir Biol 2009, 30(4), 489-98.

The results of an investigation carried out during September 2002 to August 2003 on hydrography, composition and community structure ofphytoplankton including chlorophyll 'a' (Chl_-a) content and primary productivity (PP) of the Pichavaram mangrove (South-east coast of India) arereported. Atmospheric and surface water temperatures varied from 30.0 to 34.8 °C and from 29.7 to 34.2°C respectively while the light extinction coefficient values (LEC) (K) ranged between 3.2 and 14.9. Salinity values varied from 9.6 to 35.4% and the pH ranged between 7.2 and 8.6. Variation in dissolved oxygen content was from 3.2 to 6.5 ml/l^{-1. The ranges of inorganic nutrients viz., nitrate, nitrite, phosphate and silicate were: 7-36.23,0.31-5.46,0.28-3.70 and 12.26-56.64 μM respectively. Chlorophyll 'a' content ranged between 0.20 and 105.60 μg1 and the ranges of gross and net primary productivities (PP) were: 16.54-826.8 and 11.52-610.2 mg cm3 hr-1 respectively. Presently a total of 94 species of phytoplantton were identified. Amongthese the diatoms for predominantor. Popd varied from 400 to 3,21,000 cells-1. While the peak diversity (5.23 bits/nd.) of the phytoplankton was observed during summer season, the maximum population density was found during summer season coinciding with the stable hydrographical conditions.}

7 illus, 1 table, 65 ref

011685   Rai B;Dhattarwal S K;Anand S C;Nathm S (NO, Government Dental College, Rhotak, Haryana, Email: drbalwantraissct@rediffmail.com) : Three physiological changes in teeth and age estimation. South Asian Anthrop 2008, 8(2), 149-51.

This research is based on the confrontation of modifications of Gustafson's aging method with the aims of producing of up to date 'Identification Tables' for practical forensic dentistry. The identification tables were produced using the mutual relationship of sum of point values such as the secondary dentine, the secondary cementum, transparency and age.

1 table, 7 ref

011684   Rahman S;Abidi A B (Biochemistry Dept, N.D. Univ of Agril. and Tech., Kumarganj, Faizabad-224 229) : Response of sulphur nutrition on biochemical composition of green gram [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek] varieties. Allahabad Fmr 2009, 64(2), 63-8.

A field experiment was conducted to observe the response of sulphur nutrition on various biochemical parameters of Green gram varieties namely K-851, PDM-54,PANTMOONG-19andPANTMOONG-35. Sulphur doses were used @ 0,20, 40 and 60 kg ha^{-1. The results showed high variation among biochemical traits. Protein content varied in the range from (23.85 to 26.63 per cent) and various minerals such as calcium content (1.43 to 1.48 per cent), Magnesium content (1.83 to 1.87 per cent), Phosphorus content (7.80 to 7.85 per cent), Iron content (4.44 to 4.95 mg 100g-1) and sulphur content were noticed (1.05 to 1.62 per cent) during both the years, 2004-05 and 2005-06, respectively.}

2 illus, 1 table, 12 ref

011683   Neelima Garg;Gupta H (NO, Banasthali Univ, Rajasthan-304 022) : Isolation and purification of fungal pathogen (Macrophomina phaseolina) induced chitinase from moth beans (Phaseolus aconitifolius). J Pharm Bioallied Sci 2010, 2(1), 38-43.

Chitinase (EC 3.2.1.14) is one of the major pathogenesis-related proteins, which is a polypeptide that accumulates extracellularly in infected plant tissue. An attempt was made to isolate and purify the chitanase enzyme using moth beans as an enzyme source. The enzyme was isolated and purified from moth beans against the fungal pathogen Macrophomina phaseolina strain 2165. The isolation and purification was done in both in vitro and in vivo conditions. Purification of chitinase was carried out to obtain three fractions, viz. 50°C heated, ammonium sulfate precipitated and sephadex G-25 column-eluted fractions. The molecular mass of Chitinase was directly estimated by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacryamide gel electroresis (SDS-PAGE). The yield is sufficient for initial characterization studies of the enzyme. The molecular study of the enzyme shows the possibility of generating the defense mechanism in plants in which it cannot occur. Chitinase was purified by gel filtration chromatography with 20.75-fold and 32.78-fold purification in the in vitro and in vivo conditions, respectively. The enzyme shows a maximum activity after 90 min with 0.1 ml of colloidal chitin as a substrate and 0.4 ml of crude chitinase extract. The optimum pH of 5.0 and an optimum temperature of 40°C was found for maximal activity. The molecular weight of purified chitinase was estimated to be 30 kDa by SDS-PAGE. The chitinase isolated in both in vitro and in vivo conditions is stable andactive.

5 illus, 2 tables, 20 ref

011682   Mercy S;Sangeetha N;Kavitha M;Soranam R; Ganesh D (Plant Genetic Improvement Div, Biotechnology Dep, Manonmaniam Sundaranar Univ, Alwarkurichi-627 412, Email: ganeshdsneha@yahoo.co.in) : Plant regeneration from immature zygotic embryos of two drought tolerant wild germplasm of Indian gooseberry (Phyllanthus emblica Gaertn.) and medium term In vitro conservation. Asian J expl Sci 2010, 24(1), 39-44.

Two drought tolerant germplasm of Indian gooseberry (Phyllanthus emblica) with high yielding potential and with higher vitamin content were identified in the Southern Western Ghats of India. Retrieval of these germplasm by conventional method was found to extremely difficult due to high percent of defective seeds besides their poor ability of rooting in vegetative propagation. Restoration of these germplasm by rescuing zygotic embryos at premature stage followed by in vitro culture on MS medium fortified with different concentrations of ABA resulted in effective induction of embryo dormancy and efficient plant regeneration. Of the various concentrations of ABA (0.1, 0.25, 0.5, 1.0, 2.5 and 5 mg/1) tested, ABA at lmg/1 was found to be the optimum concentration for effective induction of dormancy as evidenced by complete inhibition of embryo germination. Zygotic embryos cultured in lower concentrations of ABA (0.1, 0.25 and 0.5 mg/1) show varying responses of germination, whereas, increase in levels of ABA (2.5 and 5.0mg/I) adversely affected the embryos as evidenced by browning leading death of embryos during preservation. Embryos cultured in presence of ABA (1 mg/1) could be preserved under room temperature for two years without subculture. Retrieval of plantlets by germinating the preserved embryos on half strength MS medium fortified with different concentrations of Kn (0, 0.1, 0.5, 1.0 mg/1) resulted in optimizing the germination protocol of zygotic embryos. Regenerated plants could be successfully planted in the field with 95% survival after two years of conservation. The importance of this finding in conservation of several other wild germplasm of Indian gooseberry and its possible utility in genetic improvement is discussed.

2 illus, 3 tables, 18 ref

011681   Kathare R V;Mundhe S G;Pawar B H (Pysics Dep, , KMJM Washi. Dist. Osmanabad-413 503) : Comparative study of UV absorption characteristics of various baceria. Bionano Front 2010, ICLAM(spl), 30-2.

The light energy to be used by living systems must be first absorbed and then utilized for different purposes. Some pigments absorb certain wavelength. The absorption spectrum of microorganism changes species to species because of chemical composition. Here absorption spectra of microorganisms like Escherichia Coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Proteus Vulgaris are recorded in the range of wavelength 200 nm to 400 nm. After studying the absorption spectra it has been observed that the UV 337 nm wavelength laser is comparatively useful.

4 illus, 11 ref

011680   Karhale G A;Kawale R S;Gawali P G;Tumberphale U B;Kalamse G M (P.G. Dep of Physics, N.E.S. Science College, Nanded-431 605, Email: kalamse_gm123@rediffmail.com) : Dielectric properties of black pepper (Piper nigrum Linn.) at 9.85 GHZ microwave frequency. Bionano Front 2010, ICLAM(spl), 23-6.

The moisture content, conductivity, nutritional quality, dielectric heating effect on germination and growth of agricultural products, are the important with respect to quality maintenance. To understand the actual process at molecular level the investigation on dipolar behavior of Black pepper in the form of powder, at microwave frequency 9.85 GHZ are carried out for different grain sizes and at different temperatures. The effect of packing density on dielectric parameters, relaxation time, conductivity of Black pepper are reported. Experimental results of different relative packing fraction (r) are further used to obtain transformation to 100% solid bulk, using correlation equations of Landau-Lifshitz-Looyenga and Bottcher. It is found that, there is a fair agreement between experimental values and theoretical values. The results shows cohesion in the particles of Black pepper powder under investigation.

2 tables, 13 ref

011679   Kampli S;Pavate P (Anthropology Dep, Karnatak Univ, Dharwad-580 003, Email: ppavate@gmail.com) : ABO and Rh blood groups among the gunagi of Karnataka. South Asian Anthrop 2008, 8(2), 165-7.

A sample of 623 individuals of Gunagi community from the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka have been collected and tested for ABO and Rh blood group systems. The statistical analysis reveals that the Gunagi show significant difference when compared with local Daivadnya Brahmin and other communities of Karnataka. Thus serologically Gunagi represent a different population in Karnataka.

4 tables, 5 ref

011678   Jashim Uddin M D (Management Studies Dep, Dhaka Univ, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh, Email: ujasim@yahoo.com) : Knowledge and perceptions of rural adolescent girls of Bangladesh on STD and HIV/AIDS. South Asian Anthrop 2008, 8(2), 111-16.

The study assessed the knowledge and perceptions of rural adolescent girls on STDs and HIV/AIDS in Bangladesh. Findings revealed that only 20% of girls ever heard about STDs. No knowledge of STDs was significantly lower among girls of 13-19 years age group than those of 10-12 years. Only one third of the girls had correct knowledge about routes of transmission of STDs. Forty percent of the girls ever heard about HIV/AIDS. Education of the girls and their mothers had negative association on no knowledge on HIV/AIDS. Findings of this study suggest that the adolescent girls in rural Bangladesh are not sufficiently aware of STDs and HIV/AIDS and efforts on creation of awareness and motivational activities are very important for improving their knowledge.

3 tables, 8 ref

011677   Hothi H S;Makkar A;Sharma J R;Manrao M R (Biochemistry and Chemistry Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana-141 004) : Synthesis and antifungal potential of schiff bases of 2'-hydroxyacetophenone and their Cu(II) complexes. Indian J agric Chem 2008, 41(2-3), 53-8.

Condensation of 2'-hydroxyacetophenone with aniline (I), 4-anisidine (II), 4-phenetidine (III), 4-hydroxyaniline (IV) and 4-chlorozniline (V) resulted in the formation of 1-(2'-hydroxyphenyi) ethylideneaniline and its N-phenyl derivatives la-Va respectively which were converted into their copper complexes (Ib-Vb) by refluxing with copper acetate monohydrate. The Schiff bases (la-Va) and their copper complexes (Ib-Vb) were identified on the basis of elemental analysis and spectral studies. The Schiff bases (la-Va) and their Cu(II) complexes (Sb-Vb) were screened in vitro for their antifungai potential against Alternaria alternata, Fusarium oxysporum and Myrothecium roridum by spore germination inhibition method. The results have been expressed in terms of ED50 values. Complexation with copper of the Schiff bases (la-Va) in general increases their antifungai potential against F. oxysporum and M. roridum.

1 illus, 3 tables, 11 ref

011676   Hossain M G;Islam M N;Lubna H J;Nahar S (Statistics Dep, Rajshahi Univ, Rajshahi 6205, Bangladesh, Email: hossain95@yahoo.com) : Statistical study of age at menarche among university female students in Bangladesh. South Asian Anthrop 2008, 8(2), 117-23.

The aim of the present study is to document the presence of secular trends in age at menarche and association with adult height, weight and BMI of Bangladeshi female students.. The subjects were all of Bangladeshi birth and ancestry. The samples were classified into 9 groups according to birth year cohorts from 1977 to 1985. Trends in age at menarche were examined by analysis of variance and linear regression analysis. Multiple regression analysis was utilized to find the association in age at menarche with adult height, weight and body mass index. In the current study the age at menarche varied from 10 to 15 years, with mean age 12.88 years. Using an ANOVA, age at menarche showed insignificant variations over all birth year cohorts from 1977 to 1985. Also, the slope (0.036 year) of the regression line showed that age at menarche was relatively constant during the birth year cohorts. Multiple regression coefficients exhibited that menarcheal age was negatively associated with adult body weight and body mass index. However, there was no association in age at menarche with adult height. Age at menarche may be an indicator of adult body weight and body mass index.

2 illus, 4 tables, 42 ref

011675   Guler P;Ozkaya E G (Biology Dep, Faculty of Science and Literature, Kirikkale Univ, Yahsihan, Kirikkale-71450, Turkey) : Morphological development of Morchella conica mycelium on different agar media. J envir Biol 2009, 30(4), 601-4.

Study presents the development of mycelium of Morchella conica where different concentration of sucrose added at different agar media. For this sucrose have been added as 0.25,0.50,0.75,1.00 and 1.25% concentration to wheat agar, potato dextrose agar, malt extract agar and complete medium yeast agar. The radial growth speed, morphologic specifications, radial growth radius and pigmentation of mycelium were taken as criteria, the development period of mycelium in wheat agar was completed in 4 days and mycelium were very thin. The colonization period of the mycelium was determined; 7 days in potato dextrose agar, 5 days in malt extract agar and 5 days at complete medium yeast agar. The development of the mycelium; at potato dextrose agar was dense and circular, at malt extract agar and at completed medium yeast agar was rhizomorphic. Mycelium has developed very well at sucrose medium and formed creamy and light yellow pigmentation.

5 tables, 27 ref

011674   Goswami A A;Kashikar P G;Deshpande H;Bhalsing S R;Shrivastava V S (Biochemistry Dep, Moolji Jaitha College, Jalgaon-425 002) : Bioassay on atrazine, alachlor, 2, 4-D and prediction of its toxicity on Chlorella pyrenoidosa using algal growth method. Asian J chem envir Res 2009, 2(3-4), 87-90.

Phytotoxic effect of Atrazine, Alachlorand 2,4-D has been evaluated on green algae Chlorella pyrenoidosa. The effect of the said pesticides on the growth of Chlorella pyrenoidosa, an autotrophic, unicellular freshwater alga was studied using cell count and total chlorophyll content as the growth parameters. Atrazine was most phytotoxic at the higher concentrations (1.00 and 10.00ppm) whereas Alachlor and 2,4-D inhibited the cell division in Chlorella pyrenoidosa even at 0.001 ppm concentration. The decrease in the total chlorophyll content in the algal culture with the addition of herbicide was more or less similar to the pattern of inhibition of cell numbers.

2 illus, 14 ref

011673   Gomase V S;Shyamkumar K;Dwivedi S;Gandhi T; Gagnani N;Murti M (Bioinformatics Dep, Padmashree Dr. D.Y. Patil Univ, Plot No-50, Sector-15, CBD Belapur, Navi Mumbai-400 614) : Functional analysis of catalytically active viral coat protein of Papaya leaf curl virus (PaLCV). Asian J expl Sci 2010, 24(1), 163-5.

Functional analysis of the binding ability of antigen peptides to major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class molecules is important in vaccine development, but variable length of each binding peptide complicates this prediction. This assay can be used to select epitopes for use in rational vaccine design and to increase the understanding of roles of the immune system in infectious diseases. Antigenic epitopes of coat protein form Papaya leaf curl virus (PaLCV) are important determinant for protection of many plants form viral infection. This study shows active part in host immune reactions and involvement of MHC class-I and MHC II in response to almost all antigens. We also found the SVM based MHCII-IAb peptide regions 30- RAAAPIVRV, 13- PASKVRRRL, 126- IKTKDHTNS, 42- KAWANRPMN, (optimal score is 1.055); MHCII-IAd peptide regions 225- NALMLYMAC, 131- HTNSVMFFL, 235- HASNPVYAT, 181- KWHATVTGG, (optimal score is 0.580); MHCII-IAg7 IAg7 peptide regions 27- YVSRAAAPI, 28- VSRAAAPIV, 37- RVTKAKAWA, 25- SPYVSRAAA, (optimal score is 1.833); and MHCII- RT1.B peptide regions 187- TGGQYASKE, 222- HSENALMLY, 131- SFESRHDIQ, 235-HASNPVYAT, (optimal score is 0.655) which represented predicted binders from viral coat protein. These peptide nonamers are from a set of aligned peptides known to bind to a given MHC molecule as the predictor of MHC-peptide binding. Analysis shows potential drug targets to identify active sites against diseases.

2 tables, 13 ref

011672   Gazi R;Chowdhury Z H;Nurul Alam (Health Systems and Economics Unit, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh, Mohakkali, Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh, Email: rukhsana@icddrb.org) : Internalization of women and child trafficking in Bangladesh: local dynamics, underlying push and pull factors. South Asian Anthrop 2008, 8(2), 135-47.

A situation analysis was done on women and child trafficking in Bangladesh that involved existing literature review. In-depth interview of key informants, rescued women and children, and convicted prisoners were also conducted. As local equivalent word for trafficking has a mild connotation, it does not capture the total implications for a victim. Many women and children are traded, exchanged for sexual slavery and bonded labor across borders from Bangladesh to bordering countries. The factors for trafficking are 'push' and 'pull' aspects that support supply and demand sides. It is vital to identify potential roles of the government and to explore ways how society can contributes to combat the problem.

135-47

011671   Deb R (NO, Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity Univ, Sector-125 Express Highway, Noida, Uttar Pradesh) : Khasis and female foeticide: report of a survey of east khasi hills villages of Meghalaya. South Asian Anthrop 2008, 8(2), 159-63.

This study was focused on rural women in East Khasi Hills of Meghalaya State of India. It was found that there was no known instance of female foeticide or infanticide in Meghalaya, hence, this State can be considered as a role model for other parts of the country, where there is marked bias for sons, and daughters are not wanted, as a result female foeticide is becoming widespread.

5 tables

011670   Daniela Rego;Fernandes L;Tania Nascimento;Ana Grenha (Escola Superior de Saude da Universidade do Algarve, Avenida Dr. Adelino da Palma Carlos, 8000-510 Faro, Portugal) : Evaluation of a sunscreen during a typical beach period. J Pharm Bioallied Sci 2010, 2(1), 47-50.

Amongst the radiations reaching the Earth surface, the ultraviolet B rays are the ones receiving most attention from the scientists, given their damaging potential for humans exposed to them. To minimize the harm caused by such exposure, human Beings are strongly recommended to use sunscreens, which are pharmaceutical preparations containing filters that confer protection against radiation. As this protection is strongly dependent on the properties of these filters, it is very important to ensure their stability even when under aggressive conditions, such as the typical high temperatures of summer in South Europe. In this study, a commercial sunscreen emulsion was tested in vitro for a period of time intended to simulate a beach period of 15 days, with regard to the maintenance of its sun protection factor (SPF). Moreover, the organoleptic characteristics were also monitored by macroscopic analysis. To perform this study, temperature conditions similar to those observed from June to August in Faro (Portugal) were simulated in vitro. The SPF was determined by spectrophotometry, with subsequent application of the Mansur equation. No significant alterations were observed during the considered period under the specific conditions of this study.

2 illus, 16 ref

011669   Azeem ul Hasan M;Phaninatha Sarma A;Murthy S D S (Biochemistry Dep, Chaitanya Post Graduate College, Warangal-506 002, Email: sdsmurthy@rediffmail.com) : Cadmium induced alterations in chlorophyll a fluorescence kinetics and organization of thylakoid membranes of wheat primary leaves. Asian J expl Sci 2010, 24(1), 107-10.

Exposure of wheat plants to the CdCl₂ caused alterations. Specifically in the photosystem II photochemistry. Cd at the level of 0.2 mM caused the increase in F₀ and decrease in the F_v. The increase in the F_o indicates the alterations in the light harvesting complex of photosystem II and decrease in F_v shows the decreased electron transport activity of photosystem II. SDS-PAGE polypeptide profile clearly demonstrates the loss of 24 kDa polypeptide, changes in Dl protein and disappearance of 41 kDa polypeptide, which is intimately associated with photosystem II in the wheat primary leaves under Cd stress.

3 illus, 2 tables, 21 ref

011668   Aneja K R;Pundir R K (Microbiology Dep, Kurukshetra Univ, Kuruchetra-136 119) : Mycoflora involved during pickle formation in mango (Mangifera indica L.). J mycopathol Res 2009, 47(2), 193-7.

Three kinds of pickle (oily, non-oily and salted) were made from green mango to observe changes in fungal population, pH and total acidity. The fungi were isolated from the unwashed and washed mangoes and the three types of mango pickle at different stages of fermentation by serial dilution-agar plate method on the malt extract agar medium. Aspergillus, Penicillium, Curvulaha (Deuteromycetes), Mucor, Rhizopus (Zygomycetes), Saccharomyces sp. and Hanseniaspora sp. (yeasts) (Blastomycetes) were identified. Fungal population of unwashed mangoes was found higher as compared to washed mango fruits. There was 60% (qualitative) and 40.3% (quantitative) reduction of fungal population after washing. Maximum fungai population was recorded in non-oily pickle followed by oily pickle and minimum in salted pickle. The total acidity expressed as % lactic acid produced during formation of three kinds of pickle varied between 0.14% and 2.7% and pH varied between 2 and 4. The oily and salted pickles were the best method to preserve the mango slices.

1 illus, 2 tables, 22 ref

011667   Akila G;Poorani M;Sivakumari V;Baskar N V; Arun Kumar S (NO, Ponnaiyah Ramajayam College, Thanjavur-614 904, Email: vsivamicro@gmail.com) : Expression of serine and metallo proteases by Staphylococcus aureus isolated from PUS samples. Bull Bio Sci 2009, 7(1), 67-71.

Protease are well known enzyme for their application in food and detergent industry. Proteases are extracted from many organisms like Bacillus, Aspergillus, Pseudomonas, Staphylococcus etc. Staphylococcus aureus found in mostly all wound infection; hence it was used for this study. It was characterized by morphological, biochemical and enzyme expression. In the study concluded that expression of Staphylococcus aureus from wound samples can be used for large scale commercial production of proteases.

2 illus, 2 tables, 9 ref

011666   Ajaz Ahmad;Panda B;Mujeeb M (Pharmaceutical Biotechnology Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmacy, , Jamia Hamdard, Hamdard Nagar, New Delhi-110 062) : Screening of nutrient parameters for mevastatin production by penicillium citrinum MTCC 1256 under submerged fermentation using the Plackett-Burman design. J Pharm Bioallied Sci 2010, 2(1), 44-6.

Mevastain, an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor produced by Penicillium citrinum. The Placket-Burman experimental design was used to identify the important nutrients influencing the production of mevastatin by Penicillium citrinum MTCC 1256 under submerged fermentation. Nine nutritional parameters, such as, glucose, glycerol, arrowroot, oats, urea, peptone, yeast extract, MgSO₄.7H ₂ O, and CaCl ₂ .2H ₂ O were screened by Placket-Burman experimental design in 12 experimental run. Nine nutritional parameters, glucose, glycerol, arrowroot, oats, urea, peptone, yeast extract, MgSO ₄ ,7H ₂ O, and CaCI ₂ .2H ₂ O contributed with 0.8114%, 24.0390%, 2.2786%, 0.1491%, 0.5608%, 47.5029%, 6.8092 %, 4.0980%, 10.5823% respectively towards mevastatin production by Penicillium citrinum under submerged fermentation. Among the nine nutrient components glycerol, peptone, yeast extract, MgSO ₄.7H₂O, and CaCl₂.2H₂O contributed to a large extent, urea had little impact, while glucose, oats, and arrowroot contributed moderately on production of mevastatin.

1 illus, 2 tables, 18 ref

010548   Zameer F;Meghashri S;Gopal S;Raghavendra Rao B (Studies in Microbiology Dep, University of Mysore, Manasagangotri, Mysore-570 006, Email: sguom@yahoo.com) : Chemical and microbial dynamics during composting of herbal pharmaceutical industrial waste. E J Chem 2010, 7(1), 143-8.

Study was performed to analyze the dynamics of chemical, biochemical and microbial parameters during compo sting of herbal pharmaceutical waste. All the parameters were analyzed at three different intervals of composting (1^{st, 15th and 60th days). Temperature of the compost pile was initially high (46.2 °C) and on 60th day it dropped to 33.3 °C. The pH of the sample was initially acidic (2.39) and with the progress of decomposition gradually changed to neutrality (7.55). Electrical conductivity (EC) value was high (3.8 mS) during last day of composting compared to other stages. The activity of degradative enzymes namely amylase, invertase and urease were initially high (4.1, 4.79 mg of glucoselglh and 0.19 mg of ammonialg/h respectively) while it decreased with composting. The beneficial microbial load was initially low and very high at the last stages of decomposition. The bioassay studies using compost extracts revealed that the 60th day old sample was not phytotoxic in nature.}

2 illus, 20 ref

010547   Vanitha T;Sumathy H;Sangeetha J;Devaki B; Vijayalakshmi K (Biochemistry Dep, Bharathi Women's College, North Chennai-600 108, Email: viji42research@yahoo.co.in) : Phytochemical analysis of Allium ascalonicum. Biomedicine 2009, 29(1), 22-5.

Free radicals contribute to many disorders such as arthritis, gastritis, cancer and AIDS. Antioxidant defence mechanism counteracts the free radical formation. Phytochemicals from plant have health enhancing effects. Alliums have been in use from time immemorial for their therapeutic and medicinal values. It was planned to investigate the free radical scavenging effect of Alliums and its usage in treatment of free radical induced carcinoma. It was therefore proposed to study the phytochemicals present in Allium and quantify them. 50 g of Allium ascalonicum L. (a form of Allium cepa) tissue was homogenized in lOOmL of methanol at 4°C and the extract was filtered and evaporated to dryness. The methanolic extracts were used for the qualitative and quantitative analysis of phytochemicals. Aqueous and methanolic extracts of Allium ascalonicum showed the presence of tannins, phlobatannins, terpernoids and glycosides. Total phenol content was estimated to be 52.54 mg of CAE/100 g FW, the flavonoid as 681mg / 100g FW and tannin as 23.13 mg/100 g FW. By HPLC the methanolic extract of Allium showed myricetin, quercetin, rutin and formononetin as the major flavonoids present. Quercetin was found to be 398 mg /100 g FW. The methonolic extract of Allium ascalonicum contain high amounts of quercetin which could scavenge the free radicals. It can chelate ions of transition metals like Fe^{++ and Cu+4 which can induce the formation of free radicals. This preliminary study reveals exciting alternatives in treatment of cancer.}

3 tables, 32 ref

010546   Sreelatha S;Aravazhi M;Kumar P;Narayana Doss P (Chemistry and Biosciences Dep, SASTRA Univ, Kumbakonam-612 001) : In-vitro snake venom detoxifying action of the leaf extract of Andrographis paniculata. Biomedicine 2009, 29(1), 65-8.

The study aims to examine the Naja nigricollis venom neutralization potential of the ethanol leaf extract of Andrographis paniculata. Administration of the ethanol leaf extract significantly inhibited in a dose dependent manner, the Naja nigricollis venom induced lethality and toxic effects. There was a remarkable reduction in the mortality of Swiss albino mice after intra-peritoneal administration of reconstituted venom incubated with the extract, when compared to those challenged with the venom only. Ethanolic extract of the authenticated plant material were examined for the venom neutralization ability using in vitro and in vivo methods. The alleviation in the mean survival time of experimentally protected laboratory animals were used to infer the antivenom property of the drug, after challenging with median lethal venom dose. Mean survival time study indicated appreciable protective action of the extract. The survival of animals exposed to the venom incubated with the different concentrations of the extract was used as the in vitro detoxification parameter.

2 tables, 17 ref

010545   Shivakumar M C;Umakantha B;Maraddi G N (Animal Science Dep, College of Agriculture, Bheemarayanagudi, Gulbarga, Karnataka) : Effect of virgniamycin on microbiological parameters, litter quality and performance of broilers fed varying levels of protein. Asian J Anim Sci 2009, 3(2), 167-71.

Biological trial of 42 days was conducted on broiler performance, gut microbiology and litter condition to evaluate the effect of virginiamycin supplementation with two levels of protein 21.87 and 20.78% crude protein during starter and 22.00 and 21.04% crude protein during finisher using 2x2 factorial designs with 352, one day-old chicks. Virginiamycin at the rate of 20 ppm during starter and 10 ppm during finisher was added to each test diet. The data on body weight, feed efficiency, livabiliry, intestinal bacterial load and litter quality was recorded. Normal protein and sub optimal protein with virginiamycin significantly (P<0.05) better feed efficiency was recorded over their corresponding unsupplemented groups. Feed consumption and body weight remained non significant among the groups. Hundred per cent livability was noticed in virginiamycin groups where as 98.75 and 96.25 per cent livability in unsupplemented group of normal protein and sub optimal protein group, respectively. Litter moisture differed significantly (P< 0.05) in sub optimal protein with and without virginiamycin group. Litter score was significantly lower in virginiamycin supplemented groups. Total bacterial and cocci count differed significantly (P< 0.05) between supplemented and control groups from II and IV week onwards, respectively. Relative economics was calculated and net returns/bird over feed cost was better in all the supplemented groups.

5 tables, 22 ref

010544   Sharma V;Bhagat M (Division of Biochemistry and Plant Physiology, Sher-e Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Tech of Jammu, Main Campus, Chatha-Jammu-180 009) : Butea monosperma (L.) possesses in vitro cytotoxic potential against human cancer cell lines. Green Fmg 2009, 2(10), 715-17.

Cancer is one of the most deadly diseases facing the humanity today and the global trend currently calls for discovery of the new molecules of natural origin for the management of cancer. The goal of this study was to evaluate in vitro cytotoxic potential of the extracts from Butea monosperma (a traditional medicinal plant) against human cancer call lines from different origins. The hot water extract of the plant showed most significant results as it inhibited the growth of three human cancer eell lines, viz., A-549, COLO-205 and IMR-32. The ethanolic extract and 50% ethanolic extract did not exhibit any activity.

1 table, 13 ref

010543   Shakya K;Mishra R;Sam S (Microbiology Dep, Shri Satya Sai College, Bhopal) : Inhibitory effect of Glycyrrhiza glabra extract on deoxyribose degradation. Biosci Biotechnol Res Communs 2008, 1(1), 54-8.

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) have been known to damage many biological macromolecules, of which DNA is the most significant target. Oxidative DNA damage is considered to be a good biomarker relevant to carcinogenesis and aging. In the study, the antioxidant activity of methanolic extract of Glycyrrhiza glabra was investigated by evaluating its inhibitory effect on deoxyribose degradation using Fentons method. The activity was found to increase in a concentration dependent manner and the results were comparable to that of the standard antioxidant, alpha tocopherol, whose percentage inhibition of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) was only slightly higher than that of Glycyrrhiza glabra. This analysis can also be used to assess the capacity of Glycyrrhiza glabra to scavenge of OH rivaled by 2-deoxy-D-ribose and to inhibit the metal-ion dependent generation of OH.

1 illus, 15 ref

010542   Sanilkumar M G;Saramma A V;Joseph K J (Marine Biology Dep, Microbiology & Biochemistry, School of Marine Sci, Cochin Univ of Science & Technology, Kochi-682 016, Email: sanilmgs@yahoo.com) : Vertical distribution of micropytobenthos in cochin estuary. J Mar Biol Ass India 2009, 51(1), 61-8.

Microphytobenthos or benthic microalgae are recognised as the dominant flora in the littoral zone, estuaries and other shallow aquatic ecosystems. A preliminary study on the vertical distribution of microphytobenthos was carried out for a period of 13 months (2005-2006) at a selected station in Cochin estuary. Their distribution, biomass as chlorophyll α and community structure were investigated. Microphytobenthos included 27 species of diatoms and 5 species of blue-green algae. Pennate diatom, Amphora turgida Gregory, is a new distributional record from India. Both qualitative and quantitative distributions of flora along the vertical zone upto a depth of 5 cm were studied. During monsoon months, benthic chlorophyll a was lower than that of the planktonic counter part and was higher during late postmonsoon and premonsoon. The planktonic and benthic chlorophyll α showed lowest concentrations during June-July. The ratio of phaeopigment to chlorophyll α was found to be < 0.3 indicating an actively growing microflora with very low grazing pressure.

5 illus, 1 table, 28 ref

010541   Sanilkumar M G;Padmakumar K B;Menon N R; Joseph K J;Sanjeevan V N;Saramma A V (Marine Biology Dep, Microbiology & Biochemistry, School of Marine Scie, Cochin Univ of Science & Technology, Kochi-682 016, Email: sanilmgs@yahoo.com) : Algal blooms along the coastal waters of southwest India during 2005-08. J Mar Biol Ass India 2009, 51(1), 69-74.

Monitoring and surveillance of algal blooms along the southwest coast of India, both from the coastal and estuarine stations were made during 2005-08. Algal blooms of Coscinodiscus asteromphalus var. centralis Ehrenberg were observed during the monsoon 2006 off Kodikkal (near Calicut; 11° 28 43'N lat, 75° 36 10'E long.) and Coscinodiscus spp. and Pleurosigma spp. at Mahe estuary (11° 42 18'N lat., 75° 32 36'E). It is inferred that the high ratios of Si:N played a significant role in the formation of algal bloom. An attempt has been made to prepare a fingerprint of these blooms from the available biological and physico-chemical variables which would be helpful for predicting the algal blooms. During the study, eleven species of toxic microalgae were recorded indicating the possibility of potential threat of harmful blooms in the coastal waters of southwest coast of India.

10 illus, 20 ref

010540   Ranjith Vimalraj T;Saravana Kumar S;Vadivel S;Ramesh S;Thejomoorthy P (Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology Dep, Madras Veterinary College, Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences U, Tamil Nadu) : Antibacterial effect of cassia fistula extract on pathogenic bacteria of veterinary importance. Tamilnadu J vet Anim Sci 0000, 5(3), 109-13.

Cassia fistula (Family - Caesalpinaceaej (Tamil - Sarakondraij is a deciduous and an ornamental tree native to India and Sri Lanka, its extracts have been shown to have antifungal, antineoplastic and anti-inflammatory activity. In the present study, the antibacterial activity aqueous and alcoholic extract of stem bark of Cassia fistula was tested. The bacterial isolates tested include: Staphylococcus aureus (MTCC 740), Bacillus subtilis (MTCC 441), Escherchiacoli (MTCC 443) and a few field isolates of Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus anthracis, Escherichiacoli, Pasteurellamultocida, and Salmonella typhi. Disc diffusion and Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) studies were carried out to assess the antibacterial effect. Chloramphenicol was used as the reference standard. Aqueous extract of Cassia fistula in disc diffusion method showed significant activity against Staphylococcus aureus but not against other bacteria tested. Alcoholic extract showed greater inhibition against Staphylococcus aureus compared to aqueous extract. One of the field isolates of Staphylococcus aureus resistant to chloramphenicol too was susceptible to alcoholic extract of Cassia fistula Zones of inhibition of alcoholic and aqueous extracts were in the range of 7.0-12.0 mm and 7.0-11.6 mm respectively. MIC values of the alcoholic extracts against Staphylococcus aureus were in the range of 0.78- 6.25 mg/ml.

2 tables, 6 ref

010539   Rai N;Harish Chandra;Srivastava J;Chauhan S; Nautiyal A R (Microbiology Dep, Gayatri College of Biomedical Sciences, Dehradun-248 001, Email: nishantrai1@gmail.com) : Recombinant DNA vaccines: present status and future perspective. Icfai Univ J Biotechnol 2009, 3(1), 19-33.

Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) vaccines are the simplest embodiment of vaccine that rather than consisting of the antigen itself, provide genes endocing the antigen. For several infectious diseases still prevailing throughout the world, there are cell culture vaccines currently being used to control them. With the development of r-DNA technology, there has been a spurt in the development of r-DNA-based vaccines, some of which are working effectively. These have several characteristics like they can be stored at room temperature and do not need cold chain storage; are economic to produce and safe to handle; and are highly effective. DNA vaccines have been developed against hepatitis, rabies, bovine herpes virus, influenza, etc. However, some improvements like vector modification for molecular adjuvant and use of effective adjuvant are needed so that immune responses may be enhanced to combat such infectious diseases effectively. DNA-based vaccine technology represents a powerful and novel entry into the field of immunological control of disease. The review will provide a brief account of DNA vaccine against human and animal and their advantage and disadvantage over traditional vaccine.

1 illus, 4 tables, 62 ref

010538   Quereshi S;Pandey A K;Sandhu S S (NO, Centre for Scientific Research and Development, People's Group, Bhopal-462 037, Email: sadaf2577@gmail.com) : Evaluation of antibacterial activity of different Ganoderma lucidum extracts. Peoples J scient Res 2010, 3(1), 9-14.

Bioproducts of Mushroom have multi beneficial effects for human welfare. Medicinal mushrooms are widely used as traditional medicinal ingredients for the treatment of various diseases and related health problems. Most of the medicinal extracts from mushroom are different forms of polysaccharides which strengthens the immune system with little or no side effect. Medicinal mushroom research has focused on discovery of compounds that can modulate positively or negatively the biological response of immune cells. The antimicrobial activity of various solvent extracts (40μg/ml) of Ganoderma lucidum was tested against six species of bacteria: Escherichia coli (MTCC-443), Staphylococcus aureus (MTCC-737), Klebsiella pneurnoniae (MTCC-2405), Bacillus subtilis (MTCC-1789) Salmonella typhi (MTCC-531) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MTCC-779). Acetone extract exhibited maximum antibacterial activity (31.60±0.10), while the most susceptible bacterium observed was Klebsiella pneurnoniae.

2 tables, 20 ref

010537   Pratap Reddy K;Sailaja G;Krishnaiah C (Laboratory of Neuro Biology, Zoology Dep, Osmania Univ, Hyderabad-500 007, Email: pratapkreddy@rediffmail.com) : Protective effects of selenium on fluoride induced alterations in certain enzymes in brain of mice. J envir Biol 2009, 30(5; Suppl), 859-64.

This study reports the protective effects of selenium on fluoride induced alterations in the activities of pro-oxidative (xanthine oxidase (XOD), lipid peroxidation (LPO) free radical scavenging, (catalase, superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione-s-transferase (GST), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), glutathione reductase (GR), glutathione) and metabolic (glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, alanineaminotransferase (ALAT), aspartate aminotransferase (AAT), creatine phosphokinase (CPK), acid phosphatase (AP), alkaline phosphatase (ALP)] enzymes along with fluoride and selenium levels in brain of mice. Animals were divided into control, NaF treated group (20 mg kg^{-1 body wt.-1 intraperitonial) and Selenium+NaF treated group (sodium selenite, 5 μg of selenium/0.2 ml distilled water kg-1 body wt.-1 day) and were maintained for 14 days on respective treatments. The decreased bodyweight (-11,35%) as well as organosomatic index (-15.1%) of brain in NaF group were recovered in treatment of selenium along with NaF. The increased accumulation of fluoride (32.1%) in brain observed in NaF treated group compared to control was diminished in selenium+NaF treated group. Selenium levels (3.03%) increased in selenium+NaF treated group in compared to decrement in NaF treatment. The SOD (-16.6%), Catalase (-21.5%), GST(-13.72%), GPX (-19.16%), GR (-44.97%) activities and Glutathione (-23%) content in NaF treated group were decreased significantly compared to controls, which were significantly (p<0.01) recovered in selenium+NaF group. Increased XOD (10.85%) and LPO (8.61%) levels observed in brain of NaF treated mice were reversed with selenium treatment. Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (-46.98%), ALAT (-10.44%), AAT (-10.21%), CPK(-27.98%) were decreased and alkaline phosphatase (10.6%), acid phosphatase (24.09%) increased in brain of mice after administration of NaF, All metabolic enzymes were significantly (p<0.01) reversed after administration of selenium to the NaF treated group. Thus, the adverse effects of NaF on oxidative and metabolic enzymes of brain were reversible with ameliorative action of selenium supplementation. As evident in this study, the antioxidative nature of selenium coupled with its reversal effect on metabolic enzymes in brain of mice treated with fluoride suggests its use as antidote agent against fluorosis.}

4 illus, 2 tables, 58 ref

010536   Pradhan R;Kulkarni A;Kale N R;Wakle G L (L.B.S. College, Partur Dist. Jalna, Maharashtra) : On a new species Gangesia wallaguae N.sp. (Cestoda: Proteocephalidae) from fresh water fish Wallago attu of central region of Maharashtra. Bionano Front 2010, 3(1), 91-2.

Deals with cestode species Gangesia wallaguae from wallgo attu at rohina Tq partur Dist. Jalna (M.S.). Gangesia watlaguae differs from the all known species of the genus in having scolex is triangular, anterior end rounded, broader in the middle and posterior side distinctly marked off from the segment, mature segments are as long as broad and squarish, testes 70-75 in numbers, genital pores is oval in shape, unilateral, and cirrus pouch is large, oval in shape, placed transversely in the middle of the segment

12 ref

010535   Parashare V;Magdum S;Kshirsagar R (NO, KTHM College, Nashik) : Isolation and characterization of bacterial spp. from cockroaches-Periplaneta americana trapped from Civil hospital Nashik. Bionano Front 2010, 3(1), 77-80.

Three different areas of civil hospital premises- Hospital area, Pathological laboratory and Canteen are taken into consideration together with a control group. In control group cockroaches were trapped from domestic areas, human dwelings. Cockroaches were trapped from these areas to study the pathogenic bacteria carried by them. Bacteria were identified from the internal and external surfaces of the cockroaches. Six species of bacteria are identified from cockroaches namely, 1) Enterobactercloacae 2) Escherichia coli 3) Klebsiella pneumoniae 4) Salmonella spp. 5) Proteus vulgaris) Pseudomonas matophilia. The number of E. coli isolated from the Hospital area and Pathological laboratory area were found to be similar. In control group i.e cockroaches collected from residential area showed presence of only Enterobacter cloacae and E. coli. Present data from area under study showed that percentage of Escherichia coli, Enterobacter cloacae and Klebsiella pneumoniae is high as compared to other species. In pathological laboratory samples, bacterial species Enterobacter cloacae, Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae are dominant, while in hospital area Escherichia coli is dominant. It was noteworthy observation that even in Canteen area poorer bacterial flora were seen but Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae were found predominantly in all the guts of cockroaches collected from all areas. Thus it could be concluded that bacteria are carried by cockroaches and are important agents in bacterial transmission from one region to another.

1 illus, 1 table, 11 ref

010534   Pandey A;Katiyar S K (Chem Dep, Priyadarshini Inst of Engineering & Technology, Hingna RoadCRPF Gate, Nagpur-440 019) : Random amplified polymorphic DNA analysis on turmeric (Curcuma spp.). Green Fmg 2009, 2(12), 857-9.

Turmeric (Curcuma) is the common name used for the drJed rhizome of Curcuma longa L, a monocotyledonous plant belonging to the family Zingiberaceae. It has been used in traditional medicine as a household remedy for various diseases including biliary disorders, anorexia, cough, diabetes, wounds, hepatic disorders, rheumatism and sinusitis. Curcumin (diferuloymethane), the main yellow bioactive component of Curcuma has been shown to have a wide spectrum of biological actions. These include its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticarcinogenic, antimutagenic, anticoagulant, antifertility, antidiabetic, antibacterial, antifungal activities. Twenty-two different genotypes of Curcuma were selected to characterize them on the molecular basis. For molecular characterization of these genotypes, total genomic DNA was extracted from leaf tissues using the DNA extraction protocol of Dellaporta. DNA was diluted and PCR based Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) DNA fingerprinting technique was employed to reveal the molecular diversity at DNA level in different Curcuma genotypes. In the RAPD analysis the twenty-two genotypes formed two major groups. Genotype T21 (Wild local 1 ) and T22 (Wild local 2) formed one group, which showed only 0.45 similarity, index value with another genotypes. DNA fingerprinting (RAPD) proved to be quite reliable and powerful tool in characterizing individual genotypes. Moreover, RAPD markers represent genetic variation at the DNA level, allowing an estimation of the degree of relatedness between individuals without the influence of environment.

3 ref, 3 tables

010533   Pal G K;Agarwal A;Pal P;Karthik S;Amudharaj D (Physiology Dep, Jawaharlal Institute of Post-Graduate Medical Education and Research (, Puducherry-605 006, Email: drgkpal@rediffmail.com) : Difference in effects of right and left nostril breathing exercises on systolic time intervals in young healthy volunteers. Biomedicine 2009, 29(1), 36-9.

As reports on the effects of breathing exercises in cardiac functioned are inadequate, the study was carried out in 45 healthy young volunteers to asses the effects of preferential breathing exercises on systolic-time intervals. Subjects were divided into three equal groups of 15 each (left-nostril group, right nostril group and control group). Subjects of left and right nostril groups were allowed to practice left breathing exercise and right breathing exercise respectively, and control group did not practice any breathing exercise. Systolic time intervals were performed before and after practice of breathing exercises and analyzed statistically. Short-term practice of left nostril breathing for one month improved parasympathetic (vagal) functions, and practice of right nostril breathing improved sympathetic functions. Findings of the present study reflect the scientific basis of benefits of breathing exercises, especially right and left nostril breathing on cardiac functions. As many human dysfunctions are related to sympathovagal imbalance, practice of these breathing exercises may be useful in their management.

3 tables, 11 ref