010532   Nilani P;Duraisamy B;Dhanabal P S;Khan S; Suresh B;Shankar V;Kavitha K Y (Pharmacognosy Dep, JSS College of Pharmacy, Rocklands, Ootacamund-01, Tamilnadu) : Antimicrobial activity of Clerodendrum species. Antiseptic 2009, 106(2), 93-4.

The solvent extracts of the barks of Clerodendrum viscosum and Clerodendrum serratum were tested for antimicrobial activity. The antifungal activity was tested against Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus ruantii, and Candida albicans, Anti bacterial activity was tested against Proteus vulgaris, Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureous, Escherichia coli and Pseudomones aeruginosa, The methanolic extract of both the plants exhibited significant activity against all the selected strains, The study thus justifies the folk therapy of the title plant in varieties of fungal and bacterial injection.

9 ref

010531   Nathan A A;Dixit M (Vascular Biology Lab, Biotechnology Dep, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai-600 036, Email: abelzone@gmail.com) : Prospects of a progenitor cell: a special focus on endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs). Icfai Univ J Biotechnol 2009, 3(1), 7-18.

Current investigations pertaining to the treatment of major vascular complications are based on progenitor cells. Most of the vascular progenitor cells have the potential to differentiate themselves into their respective mature cells and contribute to vascular remodeling and repair. Endothelial Progenitor Cells (EPCs), the recently discovered bone-marrow derived circulating progenitor cells, show high potential for post-natal vasculogenesis (neo-vascularisation) in adults. They constitute a circulating pool of cells able to form a cellular patch at sites of endothelial injury, thus contributing directly to the homeostasis and repair of the endothelial layer (re-endothelialisation). They also differentiate into mature endothelial cells with high functional ability to incorporate into neo-vessels. The mature endothelial cells with high functional ability to incorporate into neo-vessels. The endothelial cells formed from other origin, such as those from myeloid origin, have limited proliferative potential and reduced functional activity in vivo. Both physiological and pathological conditions after the levels of EPCs and their function. This review portrays the prowess and prospects, facts and figures of EPCs as a best therapeutic agent for a range of vascular diseases.

2 illus, 2 tables, 56 ref

010530   Nagabhushan Reddy M;Mohideen M B (Zoology Dep, S.K. Univ, Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh, Email: mbdmohideen@yahoo.com) : Effect of dietary n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid formulations on carbohydrate metabolism in albino rat. Biomedicine 2009, 29(1), 26-30.

Consumption of fish especially that of marine, which is a rich source of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) prevent the occurrence of coronary heart diseases. Besides, n-3 PUPA are essential in growth and development of humans. Therefore, in the present study an attempt is made to study the effect of dietary n-3 PUPA formulations on carbohydrate metabolism in albino rat. Albino rat was taken as an experimental animal to know the effect of dietary formulations of n-3 PUPA. The experimental animals were divided in to 4 groups based on feed formulations and the biochemical parameters were estimated using the standard procedures as described in methods. Dietary formulation of high n-3 PUPA in Wistar albino rat have shown a significant increase in the levels of blood glucose and also pyruvate in liver and muscle of both males and females when compared to that of rats fed control, low n-3 PUFA and medium n-3 PUFA diets. The levels of lactate have shown an inverse relation to that of pyruvate in both the sexes of rats. Succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) activity increased significantly in high n-3 PUFA diet fed rats than that of other formulations of diet. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity recorded an opposite trend to that of SDH activity. Levels of glycogen in muscle were significantly more rather than in liver in high n-3 PUPA diet fed rats. These findings support that the metabolites of carbohydrate metabolism were activated significantly in rats fed n-3 PUPA diet formulations.

3 tables, 23 ref

010529   Mittal A;Patil R;Raghavia M;Kavita V; Vedapriya D R;Agarwal L (Community Medicine Dep, A.V. Medical College, Pondicherry, Email: dranujm@rediffmail.com) : Health profile of school going children of rural Pondicherry. Indian J maternal child Hlth 2010, 12(1), (NULL).

Objective is to find out the morbidity pattern among students and to recommend an appropriate solution. Cross sectional descriptive study was conducted in two Government primary school in rural area of Pondicherry. Height, weight, general physical examination, visual acuity, dental examination. As per our findings 29% of children were stunted, while 37.86% (excluding stunted children) were underweight. On examination 78.1% (132) had dental problems, 13% (22) students were having ophthalmic problems, 15.98% (27) had ENT problems, 9.4% (16) dermatological problems, worm infestation 9.4% (16) and others were 3% (5). Major proportion of students was having health problems, only 12.4% (21) students were apparently morbidity free. Dental problems and under-nutrition were the most common findings in our study.

010528   Mallia J V;Muthiah P;Thomas P C (NO, , A7, Flat no.6, Maladhighwayview CHS, Malad E, Mumbai-97, Email: jyothivmallia@rediffmail.com) : Performance of triploid edible oyster Crassostrea madrasensis (Preston): gonad development and biochemical composition. J Mar Biol Ass India 2009, 51(1), 81-6.

One of the most important parameters for successful commercial exploitation of bivalves is a need for fast growth. The potential for increased growth, meat yield and quality are the main advantages of triploid oysters. Triploid organisms have a limited capacity to develop gonads and thus are considered sterile or partially sterile and are useful and advantageous in shellfish aquaculture. Oysters occur all along the Indian coasts in backwaters, bays and estuaries. The edible oyster Crassostrea madrasensis is a commercially important bivalve distributed all along the east and west coasts of India and the edible oyster farming is becoming increasingly popular. C. madrasensis is a suitable species for culture because of faster growth rate and tolerance to wide range of salinity. The present study compares triploid and diploid edible oysters (C. madrasensis) of the same age, grown under similar conditions for one year to determine the accumulation of biochemical reserves at first maturation. Triploid edible oysters were produced by treating newly fertilized eggs with 6-Dimethyl amino purine (6-DMAP). Stunted growth of gonads was seen in triploids while in diploids both ovaries and testis were functional. Higher levels of total carbohydrate (including glycogen 20.25% in meiotic I triploids and 18.78% in meiotic II triploids over 12.95% in diploids) has a major role in increasing the superior performance of triploids. Meat quality is also expected to be higher in triploids.

30 ref

010527   Mahour K;Saxena P N (Toxicology Laboratory, Zoology Dep, School of Life Sciences, Khandari Campus, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Univ, Agra-282 002, Email: kris_mathura@yahoo.com) : Assessment of haematotoxic potential of mercuric chloride in rat. J envir Biol 2009, 30(5; Suppl), 927-8.

The blood is an important liquid connective tissue flow in body and performs the role of distribution of oxygen to various tissues, taken out carbon dioxide and maintains the health status of an organism. Any change in the blood components can cause adverse effects on the body. The effect of mercuric chloride has been evaluated on blood in albino rats (Rattus norvegicus). The albino rats were treated with mercuric chloride 0.926 mg kg^-1 body wt. for acute (1 day) and 0.044 mg kg^-1 body wt. for sub-acute (7,14 and 21 day) sets after calculating LD₅₀ (9.26 mg kg^-1 body wt.). Major changes have been observed in the form of enhanced clotting time (CT) and bleeding time (BT) due to toxic effect of mercuric chloride on haemopoietic system along with decrease in the total erythrocyte count (TEC) and haemoglobin concentration (Hb. cone.). The changes in erythrocyte count and haemoglobin concentration have been correlated with cytotoxic effect of mercuric chloride on erythropoiesis. However, the intoxication of mercuric chloride on total leukocyte count (TLC) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) has been observed to be significantly increased after acute and sub-acute treatments due to leucocytosis and rouleux formation. Moreover, the present observations highlight dose dependent toxicity.

^ssc1 illus, 16 tables

010526   Lajmanovich R C;Attademo A M;Peltzer P M; Junges C M (National Council for Scientific and technical Research (Conicet)-Facul, Paraje el Pozo s/n (3000), Santa Fe, Argentia, Email: lajmanovich@hotmail.com) : Inhibition and recovery of cholinesterases in Odontophrynus americanus tadpoles exposed to fenitrothion. J envir Biol 2009, 30(5; Suppl), 923-6.

Determined the levels of brain acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and tail butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) activities in tadpoles of Odontophrynus americanus exposed to a commercial formulation offenitrothion, The mean brain AChE activities in the controls tadpoles varied from 6.91 to 6.39 μmol min^{-1 mg-1 protein, whereas tail BChE activities ranged among 0.26 to 0.17 μmol min-1 mg-1 protein; the two sub-lethal concentrations of fenitrothion assayed produced A ChE and BChE inhibition (p<0.01). Brain AChE recovered a substantial level of activity with a maximum of 93.2%; after the transference of tadpoles to a free-pesticide solution, whereas tail BChE recovery showed a smaller increase (39%) in the activity at 168 hr after to transference to clear water. According with our results, we suggest that tadpole's tail BChE presents higher sensibility than brain AChE.}

5 illus, 37 ref

010525   Khan N D;Kamble L H (Biochemistry Dep, Shri Shivaji College, Akola-444 003) : Amylase activity of sixteen common spices. Bionano Front 2010, 3(1), 29-30.

Amylase activity of sixteen common spices from nine botanical families were assayed, Red chili (Capsicum annum), cumin seed (Cuminum cyminum) and ajowan (Trachyspermum ammi) had a high amylase activity. Cinnamon (Cinnamomum Zey/anicum) from Lauraceae family possesses lowest amylase activity. Aqueous extracts of the spices were made as per standard protocol. Amylase activity was analyzed using dinitrosalicylic acid. The effect of temperature on amylase activity was also examined for red chili and cumin seed. Using the crude enzyme solution from Red chili and cumin seed, we studied temperature optima for amylase activity. The highest initial reaction rate of the enzyme was observed at 70° C for Red chili and at 60°C for Cumin seed. The optimum temperature for amylase activity of red chili was thus slightly higher than cumin seed.

2 illus, 8 ref

010524   Kashinakunti S V;Sunitha H;Gurupadappa K; Shankarprasad D S;Suryaprakash G;Ingin J B (Biochemistry Dep, S. Nijalingappa Medical College, H.S.K. Hospital Research Centre Bagal, Karnataka, Email: drsvkashinakunti@yahoo.co.in) : Lipid peroxidation and antioxidant status in preeclampsia. Al Ameen J med Sci 2010, 3(1), 38-41.

Current theory suggests that in preeclampsia there is an increase in the lipid peroxidation products and leads to decrease in the serum antioxidants except uric acid, contributing to the pathogenesis of preeclampsia. In this context, this study was undertaken to determine the changes in blood levels of lipid peroxide and antioxidant levels in women with preeclampsia. Method: Case control study consisting of 30 preeclamptic and 30 healthy pregnant women. Fasting venous blood samples were collected during antepartum period and serum levels of malondialdehyde, ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) and uric acid were measured. In the preeclamptic group malondialdehyde (MDA), a lipid peroxidation product was significantly increased, while serum antioxidant ascorbic acid was significantly decreased (P< 0.001), where as uric acid level increased significantly (P<0.001). The findings of the present study are consistent with previous studies, suggesting that lipid peroxidation is an important factor in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia. In preeclampsia serum antioxidants are excessively utilized to counteract the cellular changes mediated by free radicals.

2 tables, 17 ref

010523   Karuppasamy P K;Balu S;Persis V (NO, National Institute of Ocenography, Regional Centre, Kochi-682 018, Email: seams2007@gmail.com) : Macrozooplankton biomass in the deep scattering layer of the Indian EEZ. J Mar Biol Ass India 2009, 51(1), 26-31.

The surveys conducted on board FORV Sagar Sampada during 1998-2002 on the Deep Scattering Layer (DSL) revealed a wide spectrum of macrozooplankton in the sonic layers of the oceanic and pelagic realms from surface to 750 m depth. The macrozooplankton biomass was 6.83 and 9.21 g/1000 in^{3 in the Arabian Sea and 2.14 and 2.61 g/1000 m3 in the Bay of Bengal, respectively, in the day and night hauls. Bathymetric studies showed that the plankton biomass was high at 0-50 m depth. Out of 19 groups of zooplankton from the Arabian Sea, medusae dominated the catch in day (35.6%) and night (31.4%) hauls. Out of 20 groups in the Bay of Bengal, medusae (36.8%) predominated in the day and euphausiids (32.0%) in the night. This paper shows the distribution and abundance of macrozooplankton along the various depths and seasons, including their diurnal vertical migration.}

4 illus, 27 ref

010522   Kannapiran K;Ravindran J;Chandrssekar R; Kalaiarasi A (NO, Alagappa Univ, Directorate of Distance Education, Karaikudi-630 003epiran_k@yahoo.co.uk) : Luminous, Vibrio harveyi associated with shrimp culture system rearing Penaeus monodon. J envir Biol 2009, 30(5; Suppl), 791-5.

Microbiological studies in a modified extensive shrimp culture system at Nambuthalai, southeast coast of India were carried out for a period of 120 days. Population dynamics and distribution profile of luminous bacteria and total heterotrophic bacteria in the water, sediment and animal samples were monitored. Luminous bacteria associated with exoskeleton, gills and gut were isolated and quantified. The total heterotrophic bacterial counts ranged from 1.3x10^{4 to25.3x 104 CFU ml-1 in waterand 1.5x106 to26.2x 106 CFU g-1 in sediment. The V. haneyipopulation density varied between 0.6 x 104 and 8.8 x 104 LCFU ml-1 in waterand from 1.2x 106 to 10.4x 106 LCFU g-1 sediment respectively. The gut of the animal was found to harbor high density of V. harveyi than gills and exoskeleton. The total heterotrophic bacteria and V. harveyi population density showed increasing trend during the culture period. The high V. harveyi density observed in this study at the end of the culture period correlated with the outbreak of white spot disease.}

10 illus, 35 ref

010521   Kaladharan P;Veena S;Vivekanandan E (NO, Visakhapatnam Regional Centre of Central Marine Fisheries Research Ins, Visakhapatnam-530 003, Email: kaladharanep@gmail.com) : Carbon sequestration by a few marine algae: observation and projection. J Mar Biol Ass India 2009, 51(1), 107-10.

CO₂ sequestration by the marine planktonic microalgae Nannochlompsis salina and Isochrysis galbana as well as macroforms Gracilaria corticata, Sargassum polycystum and Ulva lactuca was estimated under laboratory conditions. The green seaweed U. lactuca registered 100% utilization of CO₂ towards carbon fixation from the ambient water up to 15 mg/1 and beyond that it declined to 60%. The microalgae were able to utilize 27.7% of dissolved CO₂ at 15 mg/1, but did not show any effect either for carbon fixation or for emission at lower and higher levels. Gross primary productivity of these algae were also not affected by increase in the CO₂ levels. It is estimated that the seaweed biomass along the Indian coast is capable of utilizing 9052 tCO₂/d against emission of 365 tCO₂ /d indicating a net carbon credit of 8687 t/d.

^ssc3 tables, 10 ref

010520   Jha R;Rizvi S I (Biochemistry Dep, Allahabad Univ, Allahabad-211 002, Email: sirizvi@gmail.com) : An insight into the biological process of aging. Biomedicine 2009, 29(1), 3-8.

Aging is a multifactorial process caused by accumulated damage to a variety of cellular components and is characterized by progressive deterioration of physiological functions and metabolic process. There are many theories, which attempt to explain the process of aging. Broadly, different theories may be classified as 1. Evolutionary, 2. System, 3. Molecular, and 4. Cellular. Since aging is a complex process, several processes may interact simultaneously and may operate at many levels of functional organizations. Oxidative stress, mitochondrial DNA damage, membrane alterations, telomere loss, apoptosis and genetic mechanisms, all are considered to underlie the aging process and probably contribute to age related changes.

^iia42 ref

010519   Jadhav V;Biradar A;Biradar S D;Biradar S D (Research and Post Graduate Studies, Botany Dep, Dyanopasak College, Parbhani-431 401, Email: jadhav_vrushali@yahoo.com) : Phytochemical screening and In vitro antimicrobial properties of Amaranthus tricolor L.. Bionano Front 2010, 3(1), 130-3.

The antimicrobial effect of Amaranthus tricolor L. root extract was evaluated on bacterial strains like Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922), Pseudomonas aeroginosa(ATCC 13048), Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 25923),Bacillus subtilis (ATCC 11778), Aspergillus niger (12089) and Candida albicans(12045). The solvents used for the extraction of plants were water, methanol, petroleum ether, alcohol, and acetone. The most susceptible Gram positive bacteria was B. subtilis, while Gram negative bacteria was Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The root extracts of acetone, alcohol and methanol showed least activity against tested bacterial strains which were investigated. The in vitro antimicrobial evaluation was carried out by agar well diffusion method. The significant antimicrobial activity of the active extracts was compared with the standard antibiotic, penicillin (50 μg/ml). In case of fungi C. albicans shows significant activity in comparison to A. niger. Standard antifungal agent Fluconozole (50 μg/ml)used for fungi. The MIC values of the extracts were also determined which is ranged from 10 to 100 mg/ml. The results obtained in the present study suggest that Amaranthus tricolor L. root extract can be used in treating diseases caused by the test organisms.

3 tables, 11 ref

010518   Hutke V D (P.G. Dep of Botany, Govt. Vidarbha Institute of Science and Humanities, Amravati-444 604) : In vitro clonal multiplication of sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum). Bionano Front 2010, 3(1), 23-4.

Shoot cultures were established from spindle explants on liquid MS medium supplemented with different concentrations of BAP and NAA. The medium supplemented with 1 mg/l BAP and 0.5 mg/l NAA was found superior in the optimum production of multiple shoots. Rooting was induced by transferring shoots to rooting MS medium containing NAA and 7% sucrose. NAA 4.5 mg/l showed best performance in the production of roots. The plantlets were successfully transferred to soil with 90 percent survival.

2 tables, 6 ref

010517   Gopakumar G;Sulochanan B;Venkatesan V (NO, Regional Centre of Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, Mandapam-623 520, Email: drggopakumar@gmail.com) : Bloom of Noctiluca scintillans (Macartney) in guld of mannar, southeast coast of India. J Mar Biol Ass India 2009, 51(1), 75-80.

From 2.10.08 to 12.10.08 an intense bloom of Noctiluca scintillans (Macartney) was observed for the first time in the coastal areas of Gulf of Mannar (southeast coast of India) near Appa Island, Thalaiyari Island and Valai Island and subsequently it intensified into a dense bloom in Muthupettai area and spread from Kilakarai to Pamban. The coastal waters appeared dark green and microscopic examination revealed the presence of N. scintillans. The organism is bioluminescent, inflated and sub-spherical. The size of the organism ranged from 400-1200 microns. Though the species is colourless, the presence of photosynthetic green endosymbionts make the water green. The high temperature, salinity and low pH aided the spread of the bloom to adjacent areas of Muthupettai. During the intense period of bloom, the concentration of N. scintillans was around 13.5 lakh cells /I, the dissolved oxygen level was below detectable level and the total suspended solids was 510 mg/l, thereby increasing the turbidity and cutting of light to the bottom. This resulted in biodiversity loss in the intensely affected area from Valai Island to Muthupettai coast. The environmental parameters during the waning phase of the bloom were, surface water temperature 29.5° C, salinity 34.2 ppt, dissolved oxygen 4.86 ml/1, phosphate 8.28μ g at/1 and ammonia 85 μ g at/l. Further investigations indicated the resilience of the ecosystem to recover from the sudden natural damage.

8 illus, 1 table, 21 ref

010516   Gonulol A;Ersanli E;Baytut O (Biology Dep, Faculty of Arts and Science, Ondokuz Mayis Univ, TR-55139, Kurupelit, Samsun, Turkey, Email: agonulol@omu.edu.tr) : Taxonomical and numerical comparison of epipelic algae from balik and Uzun lagoon, Turkey. J envir Biol 2009, 30(5; Suppl), 777-84.

The epipelic algae of Balik lagoon and Uzun lagoon were investigated from May 2003 to December 2004. A total of 106 taxa were identified. Of these, 85 were found in Balik lagoon and 78 were found in Uzun lagoon. Water temperature of the lagoons ranged from 6.5 to 24.5°C during the sampling period. Conductivity, hardness, dissolved oxygen an pH values varied between 0.70 and 8.00 mS, 26.00 and 86.60°f,3.50 and9.00 mg l^{-1 and 7.82 and 8.70 respectively. Nitrite nitrogen, nitrate nitrogen, chloride, phosphate phosphorus and sulphate concentrations in the water were also measured and ranged from 0.01 to 0.14, 0.01 to 0.24, 2.41 to 48.70,0.01 to 0.12 and 54.00 to 104.40 mg l-1 respectively. Species richness (d), diversity (Shannon - Weaver, H') andevennes (J') were calculated for epipelic algae and the findings showed similar oscillations throughout the research period. Cluster analyses and multidimensional scaling (MDS) revealed a similar distribution pattern of epipelic algal flora in both lagoons.}

5 illus, 2 tables, 37 ref

010515   Gawai D U;Deshpande R P (Botany Research Lab. and Plant Disease Clinic, N.E.S. Science College, Nanded, Email: ravi.deshpande3@gmail.com) : Effect of temperature and pH on cellulolytic enzyme activity in degradation of Banana wastes. Bionano Front 2010, 3(1), 107-9.

The importance of ceilulolytic microorganisms for the production of glucose from cellulose is well recognized. Cellulases are derived from cellulolytic microorganisms. Cellulases are used in various industries like food, brewery, textile, paper, etc. Total 14 fungi were isolated from the banana waste like leaves & stem by using Martins rose bengal streptomycin agar medium. The most common fungi were Aspergillus flavus, A. niger, Cladosporium sp.,Fusarium moniliforme, Phoma exiqua, Trichoderrra harziamum and Curvularia lunata. Out of 14 isolated fungi, 7 fungi exhibited highest cellulolytic activity. The cellulolytic enzyme activity was assayed at different temperature & pH. Out of 7 fungi tested Cladosporium species showed maximum enzyme activity at 40°C temperature & pH 6.5 as compared with other fungi tested. Phoma exiqua showed a very least enzyme activity at 40°C temperature & pH 6.5. All fungi showed maximum production of exo β. glucanase & endo β.glucanase at 40°C temp. & at pH 6.5. The cellulolytic enzymes of Cladosporium was indicated to be an effective way to degrade banana wastes.

2 illus, 2 tables, 17 ref

010514   Deshmukh Y A;Salunkhe S N;Saini T;Deep Ratan Kumar;Patil D S (Agricultural Botany Dep, Marathwada Agricultural University, Parbhani-413 402) : Identification o entomo-pathogenic bacteria using 16S rDNA sequencing. Green Fmg 2009, 2(12), 860-3.

The investigation mainly emphasizes on the methods for the identification of local entomopathogenic bacteria from dead insets and from soil and also to study genetic diversity of these bacterial strains. Isolates resembling Bacillus spp. were isolated from soil & dead insects and analyzed by traditional biochemical methods. Biochemical results for this isolate were similar to that of Bacillus spp. Local isolates were tested for their purity and out of ten isolates it was found that only two were expressing toxicity to the insects. However the extent of toxicity against H. armigera observed was to the extent of L C₅₀ and LC₉₀ values for PDKV-IV were 2.4 x 10⁴ and 2.89 x 10⁸ respectively, which has proved the ability of these bacteria in killing the insects. Microseq further identified these two isolates. One of the isolate PDKV II was identified as Bacillus cereus (ACCESSION FJ877141) and another isolate was identified as Paenibacillus alvei (ACCESSION FJ868461) which is a third most common bacterium detected in disease larvae from honeybee colonies. The 16S & 23S rRNA currently considered as the most useful molecules for the determination of prokaryotic phylogeny. Analysis of these rRNA sequences has resulted in tremendous expansion of our knowledge of prokaryotic diversity and has demonstrated the limitations of the existing prokaryotic taxonomy which is based primarily on the analysis of phenotypic traits. Identification of bacteria from deadlarvae and soil should be be done by the advanced molecular techniques like 16S rDNA sequencing to avoid mis-identification.lt is difficult task to discriminate between closely related species like Bacillus thuringenesis from Bacillus cereus by any traditional methods and the fact that they have grouped together in our analysis & other recent studies is not surprising.

2 illus, 8 ref, 2 tables

010513   Chitra M;Muthu B G (Biochemistry Dep, STET Women's Collage, Mannargudi, Thiruvarur District, Tamilnadu, Email: mschitra21@yahoo.com) : Antioxidant effects of quercetin derived from Hibiscus vitifolius Linn. on mercuric chloride induced toxicity in rats. Biomedicine 2009, 29(1), 79-81.

The fresh flowers of Hibiscus vitifolius L. were screened to determine antioxidant activity. A methanol extract of flower was prepared and partitioned sequentially with petrol, ether and ethylacetate. UV, 1HNMR and 13CNMR identified the active compounds as quercetin and quercetin 3-0-arabinopyranoside. The antioxidant activity was also studied in HgCl, toxicity through biochemical parameters such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione reductase (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GP_X), lipid peroxidase (LPO), vitamin C and vitamin E. Quercetin 3-0-arabinopyranoside treated rats showed decrease in lipid peroxidation. Statistically significant increased in the above enzymes compared to HgCl, induced group was observed, which indicates that quercetin 3-0-arabino pyranoside isolated from the flowers of Hibiscus vitifolius can act as a potent antioxidant.

^ssc1 table, 22 ref

010512   Chattopadhyay M K (NO, Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CSIR), Hyderabad-500 007, Email: mkc@ccmb.res.in) : Association between antibiotic resistance and metal tolerance in bacteria: a recent report. Icfai Univ J Biotechnol 2009, 3(1), 34-8.

Resistance of bacteria to antibiotics poses a major threat to the prospect of chemotherapy. While by restricting the use of antibiotics in farming and aquaculture, it might be possible to restrain the problem to some extent, it is definitely not possible to get rid of the problem completely. The resistance conferring genes in many cases co-occur on plasmids with genes conferring tolerance to heavy metals. Hence, even in the absence of antibiotics in the environment, emergence of antibiotic resistant strains is possible in the presence of heavy metals (e.g., mercury) in the environment. Evidence of co-occurrence of antibiotic and metal tolerance in various natural isolates of bacteria have been highlighted.

12 ref

010511   Benkhayal F A;Musbah, E G;Ramesh S;Dhayabaran D (Food Science and Technology Dep, Omar Al Mukhtar Univ, Al Beida, Libya) : Biochemical studies on the effect of phenolic compounds extracted from Myrtus communis in diabetic rats. Tamilnadu J vet Anim Sci 2009, 5(3), 87-93.

Phenolic compounds extracted from the leaves of M.communis -were administered to streptozotocin induced diabetic rats @ 400mg/ kg body weight and 800mg/ kg body weight. Biochemical estimations namely serum glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL, LDL, AST, ALT, BUN, creatinine, total proteins, albumin and globulin, were carried out. Rats received SOOmg of extract showed marked antihyperglycemic response vhile rats received 400 mg showed only moderate response. In addition, the values of other biochemical parameters in diabetic rats received 800 mg were similar to that of control rats.

3 tables, 14 ref

010510   Baslar S;Dogan Y;Durkan N;Bag H (Biology Dep, Faculty of Education, Dokuz Eylul Univ, 35150 Buca-Izmir, Turkey, Email: yunus.dogan@deu.edu.tr) : Biomonitoring of zinc and managanese in bark of Turkish red pine of western Anatolia. J envir Biol 2009, 30(5; Suppl), 831-4.

Turkish red pine (Pinus brutia) is a widespread evergreen tree in Mediterranean and Aegean regions of Turkey. The barks of Pinus brutia were tested as a possible biomonitor of Zn and Mn accumulation studied in Western Anatolia, Turkey. Samples collected from industry, roadside, suburban and rural areas from thirty locations in the study area were investigated. The concentration of zinc and manganese were determined in the bark of the red pine by atomic absorption spectrometry. As a result of this study, the following mean concentrations were determined: forZn between min 8.4 and max 14.1 μg g^{-1, and for Mn between min 19.1 and max 24.0 μg g-1. It was found that there is no affect of location on the element concentration of both Mn and Zn.}

1 table, 36 ref

010509   Barah P;Sinha S (Mathematical Modelling and Computational Biology Group, Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CSIR), Uppal Road, Hyderabad-500 007, Email: sinha@ccmb.res.in) : Analysis of protein folds using protein contact networks. Pramana J Phys 2008, 71(2), 369-78.

Proteins are important biomolecules, which perform diverse structural and functional roles in living systems. Starting from a linear chain of amino acids, proteins fold to different secondary structures, which then fold through short- and long-range interactions to give rise to the final three-dimensional shapes useful to carry out the biophysical and biochemical functions. Proteins are defined as having a common 'fold' if they have major secondary structural elements with same topological connections. It is known that folding mechanisms are largely determined by a protein's topology rather than its interatomic interactions. The native state protein structures can, thus, be modelled, using a graph-theoretical approach, as coarse-grained networks of amino acid residues as 'nodes' and the inter-residue interactions/contacts as 'links'. Using the network representation of protein structures and their 2D contact maps, we have identified the conserved contact patterns (groups of contacts) representing two typical folds - the EF-hand and the ubiquitin-like folds. Our results suggest that this direct and computationally simple methodology can be used to infer about the presence of specific folds from the protein's contact map alone.

4 illus, 30 ref

010508   Amudan R;Parchure D S;Kamat D V;Kamat S D (Microbiology Dep, Mithibai College, Vile Parle (W), Mumbai-400 056, Email: ramudhan@gmail.com) : Extraction of phytochemicals with the use of microbial enzymes. Bionano Front 2010, 3(1), 18-20.

There is a growing interest in phytoehemicats worldwide. These prtytoehemicate are used as food colorants, food supplements and also as medicines. The use of phytochemicats in food due to their relatively non-toxic nature and easy availability is a major attraction. Plant cell walls are rich in pectin and cellulose. Thus, for better extraction of the phytochemicais, enzymes such as pectinase, cellulase and the mixture of the two were used. The yield was found to be greater than the one which was not treated by the enzyme. Phytocbemicate such as lutein, carotenes and phenotics were extracted from marigold, carrot and beetroot respectively.

5 tables, 5 ref

009646   Yankanchi S R (Zoology Dep, Shivaji Univ, Kolhapur-416 004) : Phytochemical and pharmacological activities of Vitex negundo linn. Adv Pharmac Toxic 2009, 10(3), 53-8.

Vitex negundo is a shrub from Verbenaceae family traditionally used in treatment of asthma, fever, headache, inflammation and arthritis. Evaluated the anti-inflammatory properties of Vitex negundo leaves in both a cellular model of inflammation (Griess Assay) and an enzyme kinetic assay (Lipoxygenase Assay). The crude extracts of leaves from Vitex negundo inhibited the biosynthesis of NO production with inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) value of 25.20μg/ml and inhibited the activity of lipoxygenase enzyme with IC value of 60.60μg/ml. Further phytochemical work-up has led to the isolation of two different glycosides (flavonoid glycoside and iridoid glycoside). These two compounds were characterized as luteolin-6C-glycosides (Vn4) and 2'-p-hydroxybenzoylmussaenosidic acid (Vn6). Their structures were established through physical and chemical methods in addition to standard spectroscopic techniques.

2 tables, 11 ref

009645   Wilkins J S (Philosophy of Dep, Univ of Sydney, Australia 2006, Email: Wilkins@gmail.com) : Not saint Darwin. Resonance 2009, 14(2), 154-71.

37 ref

009644   Vishalakshi C;Singh B N (Genetics Laboratory, Zoology Dep, , Banaras Hindu Univ, Varanasi-221 005, Email: bnsingh@bhu.ac.in) : Effect of directional selection for body size on fluctuating asymmetry in certain morphological traits in Drosophila ananassae. J Biosci, Bangalore 2009, 34(2), 275-85.

Variation in the subtle differences between the right and left sides of bilateral characters or fluctuating asymmetry (FA) has been considered as an indicator of an organism's ability to cope with genetic and environmental stresses during development. However, due to inconsistency in the results of empirical studies, the relationship between FA and stress has been the subject of intense debate. In this study, author Investigated whether stress caused by artificial bidirectional selection for body size has any effect on the levels of FA of different morphological traits in Drosophila ananassae. The realised heritability (h^{2) was higher in low-line females and high-line males, which suggests an asymmetrical response to selection for body size. Further, the levels of FA were compared across 10 generations of selection in different selection lines in both sexes for sternopleural bristle number, wing length, wing-to-thorax ratio, sex comb-tooth number and ovariole number. The levels of FA differed significantly among generations and selection lines but did not change markedly with directional selection. However, the levels of FA were higher in the G10 generation (at the end of selection) than GO (at the start of selection) but lower than the G5 generation in different selection lines, suggesting that the levels of FA are not affected by the inbreeding generated during the course of selection. Also, the levels of FA in the hybrids of high and low lines were significantly lower than the parental selection lines, suggesting that FA is influenced by hybridisation. These results are discussed in the framework of the literature available on FA and its relationship with stress.}

3 illus, 2 tables, 39 ref

009643   Vijayakumar N;Sakthivel D;Anandan V (Zoology Dep, K.M. Centre for Post-Graduate Studies, Lawspet, Puducherry-605 008, Email: Vijayakumar_mphil@yahoo.co.in) : Physico-chemical parameters in Thengaithittu estuary, Puducherry, South India.. J Aquatic Biol 2009, 24(1), 104-6.

Physico-chemical parameters of Thengaithittu Estuary were studied during July 2007 to August 2008. The results show that there was a significant and seasonal variation in all the physico-chemical parameters being influenced by monsoon c -le and tidal rhythm. Further, introduction of un treated municipal waste-water and industrial efflutents into these water bodies leads to serious water pollution, which gets biomagnified and even reaches man though the food chain.

1 table, 18 ref

009642   Taha N A;Alkhawajah A A M;Raveesha K K (Botany Dep, Teacher College, King Faisal Univ, Dammam, Saudi Arabia, Email: khawajah20@gmail.com) : Acute and subacute toxicity studies of Persea americana mill (Avocado) seed in rats. Int J med Toxicol Legal Med 2008, 11(1-2), 31-6.

The study was carried out to determine the acute and subacute toxicities of ether extract of Persea americana seed in rats. Acute toxicity study was conducted by intraperitoneal (i.p.) administration of graded doses of seed extract of the plant. The i.p. LD₅₀ was found to be 751.6 ± 98.6 (S.E) mg/kg body weight. For subacute toxicity study, a daily i.p. treatments by P. americana seed extract for 14 days with doses of 75 and 150 mg/kg b.w. caused a significant (P < 0.05) decrease in food consumption, body weight, blood glucose, hemoglobin and hepatic cholesterol. Whereas, serum creatinine, uric acid, total protein and total bilirubin were not significantly altered. Histopathological examinations of the liver and kidney at the end of the study (14 days) showed normal architecture suggesting no morphological disturbances induced by the seed extract in these organs. In conclusion, acute toxicity study showed a relatively low LD₅₀ for P. americana seed extract. A daily treatment of rats with seed extract for 14 days decreased food consumption, body weight, blood glucose, hemoglobin and hepatic cholesterol levels. Serum creatinine, uric acid, total protein and total bilirubin were not significantly altered.

2 tables, 32 ref

009641   Soni A;Dwivedi V K;Chaudhary M;Shrivastava S M;Nathani V (Intellectual Scientific Div, Venus Medicine Research Centre, Hill Top Industrial Estate, Bhatoli Kalan, Baddi, H.P.-173 205, Email: vivekdwivedi2venusremedies.com) : Recovery of anti-oxidant level during intra-abdominal infection in mice by fixed dose combination of ceftriaxone-vancomycing. J appl Biosci 2009, 35(2), 138-45.

Intra-abdominal infections are usually polymicrobial, including both aerobes and anaerobes. The effect of ceftriaxone-vancomycin (CV) on the susceptibility of Mus musculus mice to diarrheagenic Escherichia coli, was examined via intraperitoneal inoculation. This study was planned to monitor antioxidant parameters after 3rd, 5th and 7th days of interval in renal and liver tissues of infected and treated groups of mice during abdominal infection. Fifty-four young Mus musculus mice were divided into three groups as follows: control group (n=6), infected group (n=24) and treated with CV group (n=24). Intraperitonial injection of Escherichia coli (1xW^{6CFU) and FDC of CV was administered intravenousally in the dosage of 42.8 mg/Kg body twice daily for 7 days. The activities of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase and catalase as well as the levels of malondialdehyde, as an indicator of lipid peroxidation, were measured to evaluate oxidative stress in homogenates of the kidney and liver tissue. A significant increased in malonldialdehyde, creatinine and uric acid levels (p < 0.001) were found in infected group when compared to control and treated groups. Superoxide dismutase (p < 0.01) and catalase (p < 0.001) activities were found to be decreased in infected group as compared to control and treated groups. It can be concluded that ceftriaxone-vancomycin shows broad spectrum against E. coli and prevent oxidative damage of tissue injury by reducing reactive oxygen species. These finding suggests that, based on their anti-oxidative capability, these agents could provide benefit in anti-infective therapy and reduces safely relief against intra-abdominal infection.}

11 illus, 33 ref

009640   Sivakamasundari C;Nagaraj R (Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Uppal Road, Hyderabad-500 007, Email: nraj@ccmb.res.in) : Interaction of 18-residue peptides derived from amphipathic helical segments of globular proteins with model membranes. J Biosci, Bangalore 2009, 34(2), 239-50.

Investigated the interaction of six 18-residue peptides derived from amphipathic helical segments of globular proteins with model membranes. The net charge of the peptides at neutral pH varies from -1 to +6. Circular dichroism spectra indicate that peptides with a high net positive charge tend to fold into a helical conformation in the presence of negatively charged lipid vesicles. In helical conformation, their average hydrophobic moment and hydrophobicity would render them surface-active. The composition of amino acids on the polar face of the helix in the peptides is considerably different. The peptides show variations in their ability to permeabilise zwitterionic and anionic lipid vesicles. Whereas increased net positive charge favours greater permeabilisation, the distribution of charged residues in the polar face also plays a role in determining membrane activity. The distribution of amino acids in the polar face of the helix in the peptides that were investigated do not fall into the canonical classes described. Amphipathic helices, which are part of proteins, with a pattern of amino acid distribution different from those observed in class L, A and others, could help in providing newer insights into peptide-membrane interactions.

9 illus, 1 table, 45 ref

009639   Singh P;Shivhare Y;Patil U K (Pharmacognosy Dep, VNS Inst of Pharmacy, Berkheda Nathu, Neelbud, Bhopal) : Free radical scavenging potential of Chenopodium album linn. Adv Pharmac Toxic 2009, 10(3), 111-18.

Chenopodium album Linn commonly known as lamb's quarter is a fast growing weedy annual plant in the genus Chenopodium. Chenopodium album Linn known to have a number of health benefits such as anthelmintic activity, antifungal and antiviral activity, including its hypotensive properties. It was believed that these health benefits of Chenopodium album Linn may be attributed to their antioxidant properties. Looking to the therapeutic importance in traditional and rural system of medicine it was considered worthwhile to further explore the plant for the assessment of antioxidant potential with a view to justify its traditionally claimed therapeutic activities. Antioxidant potential of Chenopodium album has been investigated for their ability to scavenge 1,1, diphenyl picryl hydrazyl (DPPH), reducing power assay, nitric oxide radical, along with Hydrogen peroxide radical scavenging activity. Antioxidant activity was assessed using two different extract of methanol and petroleum ether using ascorbic acid as a reference compound. Methanol extract in comparison with the petroleum ether had been found to be more efficient. The results obtained in the study indicate that the whole parts of Chenopodium album herb are a potential source of natural antioxidant.

4 illus, 28 ref

009638   Singh L R;Dar T A;Ahmad F (Population Science Div, Fox Chase Cancer Center, 333 Cottman Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111, USA, Email: faizan_ahmad@yahoo.com) : Living with urea stress. J Biosci, Bangalore 2009, 34(2), 321-31.

Intracellular organic osmolytes are present in certain organisms adapted to harsh environments. These osmolytes protect intracellular macromolecules against denaturing environmental stress. In contrast to the usually benign effects of most organic osmolytes, the waste product urea is a well-known perturbant of macromolecules. Although urea is a perturbing solute which inhibits enzyme activity and stability, it is employed by some species as a major osmolyte. The answer to this paradox was believed to be the discovery of protective osmolytes (methylamines). We review the current state of knowledge on the various ways of counteracting the harmful effects of urea in nature and the mechanisms for this. This review ends with the mechanistic idea that cellular salt (KCl/NaC1) plays a crucial role in counteracting the effects of urea, either by inducing required chaperones or methylamines, or by thermodynamic interactions with urea-destabilised proteins. We also propose future opportunities and challenges in the field.

125 ref

009637   Sharma R;Chhokar V;Sushma Jha;Rana J S (Biotechnol Dep, Guru Jambheshwar Univ of Sci and Technol, Hisar-125 001, Email: Jogenderrana@yahoo.co.uk) : Proteomics: current approaches and future perspectives. J appl Biosci 2008, 34(1), 1-16.

Fuelled by ever growing DNA sequence information, proteomics is providing insight into the mechanisms of biological processes in a high-throughput mode. Recently, mass spectrometry has evolved as an indispensable tool for molecular and cellular biology. These include the study of protein interactions via affinity-based isolations on a proteome-wide scale, posttranslational modifications, and protein quantification. MALDI and ESI have allowed gentle ionisation of large biomolecules. The success of MS is driven by innovative instrumentation designs (esp. TOF or ion traps) and by their application to large-scale biochemical strategies. High-throughput yeast two-hybrid approaches and analysis of protein complexes using affinity tag purification have yielded valuable protein-protein interaction maps. Two-hybrid approach has resulted in detection of 957 putative interactions involving 1,004 Saccharomyces cerevisiae proteins. The long-term challenge of proteomics is to define the identities, quantities and functions of complete complements of proteins, to characterize how these properties vary in different cellular contexts and their isoforms and posttranslational modifications. One critical step in tackling this goal is biochemical assaying. It involves generation of sets of clones that express a representative of each protein of a proteome in a useful format, followed by the analysis of these sets on a genome-wide basis. With recent developments, protein microarray emerged as a versatile tool to study protein-protein interactions. Analytical microarrays, though not fully developed, also show great potential in diagnostics, protein profiling and drug discovery. Tremendous progress has been made in the past few years in generating large-scale data sets for protein-protein interactions, organelle composition, and protein profiles in different diseased states. However, further technological improvements and organisation of international projects is needed for proteomics to fulfil its potential.

7 illus 109 ref

009636   Saisujatha D;Chandrasekarayya T (Population Studies & Social Work Dep, Sri Venkateswara Univ, Tirupati-571 502) : Changing sex-ratio of India: a spatio-temporal analysis. South Asian Anthrop 2009, 9(1), 65-9.

An attempt has been made to study the changing sex ratio in Indian states as well as union territories for a period often decades (i.e.,1901-2001) based on empirical data available from the Census of India. The high sex ratio in southern states and union territories in earlier decades and thereafter changes in sex ratio and the low sex ratio in northern states and union territories and further decline in recent decades have been discussed and the probable reasons have been presented.

1 table, 11 ref

009635   Rajurkar N S;Patil S F;Zatakia N H (Chem Dep, Univ of Pune, Pune-411 007) : Biochemical assessment of iodine deficiency disorder by urinary iodine analysis of children from age group of 2-15 years. Asian J chem envir Res 2009, 2(1-2), 47-50.

Iodine is an essential trace element for human beings and animals and is of much interest in nutritional research. Severe iodine deficiency results in spectrum of diseases such as endemic goiter, hypothyroidism, cretinism, decreased fertility rate, increased infant mortality and mental retardation. Review of the literature reveals that out of surveyed districts in India 235 are found to be endemic. Urinary iodine concentration reflects dietary iodine intake and has been used as marker for iodine status in population studies. Hence it is thought of interest to analyze iodine in urine amples of children in the age group of 2 to 15 years. The analysis of the samples was done by spectrophotometric method using Sandell-Kolthoff reaction and the obtained data are examined in the light of classification recommended by WHO/UNISEF based on urinary iodine concentration. Out of 50 samples 7 showed mild iodine deficiency, 13 showed optimal iodine concentration and 30 were at the risk of iodine induced hyperthyroidism, showing more than adequate urinary iodine concentration.

2 illus, 1 table, 13 ref

009634   Poznic M (Molecular Medicine Div, Rudjer Boskovic Institute, Bijenicka Cesta 54, Zagreb, Croatia, Email: miroslav.poznic@irb.hr) : Retinoblastoma protein: a central processing unit. J Biosci, Bangalore 2009, 34(2), 305-12.

Retinoblastoma protein (pRb) is one of the key cell-cycle regulating proteins and its inactivation leads to neoplastic transformation and carcinogenesis. This protein regulates critical G₁-to-S phase transition through interaction with the E2F family of cell-cycle transcription factors repressing transcription of genes required for this cell-cycle check-point transition. Its activity is regulated through network sensing intracellular and extracellular signals which block or permit phosphorylation (inactivation) of the Rb protein. Mechanisms of Rb-dependent cell-cycle control have been widely studied over the past couple of decades. However, recently it was found that pRb also regulates apoptosis through the same interaction with E2F transcription factors and that Rb-E2F complexes play a role in regulating the transcription of genes involved in differentiation and development.

^iia3 illus, 82 ref

009633   Nanjundiah V (MRDG & CES, Indian Inst of Sci, Bangalore-560 012, Email: vidya@ces.ilsc.ernet.in) : The origin of species after 150 years. Resonance 2009, 14(2), 124-53.

Attempts to look at The Origin of Species from the vantage point of the present. An account of the events that led to the writing of the book will be followed by a quick run through its contents. The essay ends with a mention of some issues that continue to engage evolutionary biologists today.

2 illus, 5 ref

009632   Murugan B;Annal Villi R (Dairy Science Dep, Veterinary College and Research Institute, Namakkal-637 002) : Proteolytic activity of Bacillus species isolated form milk and dairy products. Tamilnadu J vet Anim Sci 2009, 5(2), 47-50.

One hundred and eighty two Bacillus species isolated from milk and dairy products were analyzed for their ability to induce proteolysis in sterilized milk. The proteolysis expressed as percentage and measured in terms of a decrease in casein nitrogen to total protein was the highest in Bacillus subtilis (4.82%), followed by Bacillus Cereus (4.15%), Bacillus licheniformis (4.08%), Bacillus megaterium (3.52%), Bacillus circulans (2.89%), Bacillus coagulans (2.79%), Bacillus sphaericus (2.71%) and Bacillus pumilus (2.56%) respectively. B.subtilis, B.cereus, B.licheniformis and B.megaterium produced off flavours at the end of 30 h of incubation at 37UC with curdling of milk.

2 tables, 11 ref

009631   Mondal N;Sen J (Anthropology Dep, North Bengal Univ, P.O. North Bengal Univ, Raja Rammohunpur, District Darjeeling-734 013, Email: jaydipsen@rediffmail.com) : Use of body mass index to assess nutritional status and health. South Asian Anthrop 2009, 9(1), 13-20.

Body Mass Index (BMI) is an anthropometric index that has been extensively used to assess nutritional and health status of different populations. It has also been widely used in modern areas of research that include disease, mortality and obesity. An on-line literature search using "Pubmed" retrieved 214 independent publications on the assessment of nutritional status using BMI on Indian populations from 1989 up to February 2008. In the present review, there is an attempt to analyze issues such as the number of publications in different research areas, year-wise trends and the nature of samples on the above studies accomplished during this period. Special attention has been given on issue of the determination of nutritional and health status in different Indian populations using BMI. This present paper also discusses certain key points such as the BMI reference values, cut-off points, problems of using BMI and advocates certain remedial measures.

^iia4 illus, 6 tables, 23 ref

009630   Millucci L;Raggiaschi R;Franceschini D; Terstappen G;Santucci A (Molecular Biology Dep, Siena Univ, via Fiorentina 1, 53100 Siena, Italy, Email: santucci@unisi.it) : Rapid aggregation and assembly in aqueous solution of Aβ (25-35) peptide. J Biosci, Bangalore 2009, 34(2), 293-303.

Highly toxic Aβ(25-35) is a peculiar peptide that differs from all the other commonly studied β-amyloid peptides because of its extremely rapid aggregation properties and enhanced neurotoxicity. Author investigated Aβ(25-35) aggregation in H₂O at pH 3.0 and at pH 7.4 by means of in-solution analyses. Adopting UV spectroscopy, Congo red spectrophotometry and thioflavin T fluorimetry, we were able to quantify, in water, the very fast assembling time necessary for Aβ(25-35) to form stable insoluble aggregates and their ability to seed or not seed fibril growth. Our quantitative results, which confirm a very rapid assembly leading to stable insoluble aggregates of Aβ(25-35) only when incubated at pH 7.4, might be helpful for designing novel aggregation inhibitors and to shed light on the in vivo environment in which fibril formation takes place.

5 illus, 43 ref

009629   Manibabu M (Anthropology Dep, Manipur Univ, Imphal-795 003, Email: mmanibabu@yahoo.co.in) : Hoabinian and edge-ground tools of early post-pleistocene times: southeast Asia lithic technology. South Asian Anthrop 2009, 9(1), 87-96.

The typo-technological manifestation of stone tools is an outcome of the overall interactions of raw material used and its compatibility with the technique employed, as well as of the functional requirement and adaptability of the tool manufactured towards exploiting the physical environment. In the light of this model, the present paper envisages to expound the question of allegedly degenerated early post-Pleistocene core tool elements of Southeast Asia. And it is seen that the lithic typo-technology of Southeast Asian Hoabinhian culture reflects adaptive consistency to the changed humid early Holocene tropic environment - though it has coincidental analogues with those of the Euro-African early Palaeoliths. In spirit, the exposition of edge-grinding technology in some Hoabinhian heavy-duty pebble tools is a manifestation of an advanced technology than that of the chipping one and is indicative of a high 'technological' level.

89 ref

009628   Maiti A K;Ghosh K;Chatterjee U;Chakrobarti S; Chatterjee S;Basu S (Biochemistry Dep, Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education and Research, 244, A J C Bose Road, 4 Gorky Terrace) : Epidermal growth factor receptor and proliferating cell nuclear antigen in astrocytomas. Neurol India 2008, 56(4), 456-62.

The involvement of various growth factors, growth factor receptors and proliferative markers in the molecular pathogenesis of astrocytic neoplasms are being studied extensively. Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) gene overexpression occurs in nearly 50% of cases of glioblastoma. Since EGFR and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) are involved in mitogenic signal transduction and cellular proliferation pathway, we have studied the correlation between the expression of EGFR and PCNA labeling index in astrocytic tumors. Investigated the immunohistochemical expression of EGFR and PCNA using the appropriate monoclonal antibodies in 40 cases of astrocytic tumors of which 21 cases were glioblastoma, eight cases were Grade III or anaplastic astrocytomas and six cases were Grade II or diffuse astrocytomas and five cases were Grade I or pilocytic astrocytomas. Both the EGFR expression and PCNA labeling index increase with increasing grades of astrocytomas with a significantly high percentage of cells showing positive staining for both EGFR and PCNA in GBM and Grade III astrocytomas compared to Grade II astrocytomas. The expression levels of both EGFR and PCNA were low in Grade I or pilocytic astrocytomas. Conclusions: A significant correlation was found between EGFR overexpression and PCNA labeling index in Grade III and Grade II astrocytomas and glioblastoma. These suggest that the tumor proliferation, at least in higher grades of astrocytomas is dependent in some measure on EGF and EGFR-related signaling pathways.

4 illus, 2 tables, 37 ref

009627   Mahmud M N;Hossain M G (Statistics Dep, Rajshahi Univ, Rajshahi-6205, Bangladesh, Email: hossain95@yahoo.com) : Socioeconomic and demographic variables on human fertility behaviour: a multiple logistic regression analysis. South Asian Anthrop 2009, 9(1), 45-54.

The impact of different socioeconorr.ic factors and demographic variables on human fertility behavior among Bangladeshi women have been studied.. The age range of the subjects is between 10 and 49. Data was collected by Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey (BDHS) in 2004 from various districts of Bangladesh. Multiple logistic regression analysis has been used to utilize the data. The analysis demonstrates that variables six variables; age at marriage, educational level, region, mass media, contraceptive method and mortality are the most influential variables among the fourteen selected variables on human fertility behavior. These results suggest that increase the age at marriage, increase the educational level, geographical region, expose to mass media, choice the appropriate contraceptive method and decrease the rate of mortality can play an important role to reduce the fertility rate of Bangladesh.

2 tables, 27 ref

009626   Liao Y S;Chen K C;Chang L S (NO, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, National Sun Yat-Sen Univ, Kaohsiung 804, Taiwan, Email: lschang@mail.nsysu.edu.tw) : Functional role of EF-hands 3 and 4 in membrane-binding of KChIP1. J Biosci, Bangalore 2009, 34(2), 203-11.

Aim of the study is to explore whether membrane targeting of K^{+ channel-interacting protein 1 (KChIP1) is associated with its EF-hand motifs and varies with specific phospholipids. Truncated KChIP1, in which the EF-hands 3 and 4 were deleted, retained the α-helix structure, indicating that the N-terminal half of KChIP1 could fold appropriately. Compared with wild-type KCh1P1, truncated KChlPl exhibited lower lipid-binding capability. Compared with wild-type KChIP1, increasing membrane permeability by the use of digitonin caused a marked loss of truncated KChIPl, suggesting that intact EF-hands 3 and 4 were crucial for the anchorage of KChlPl on membrane. KChIPl showed a higher binding capability with phosphatidylserine (PS) than truncated KChlPl. Unlike that of truncated KChIP1, the binding of wild-type KChIP1 with membrane was enhanced by increasing the PS content. Moreover, the binding of KChIP 1 with phospholipid vesicles induced a change in the structure of KChIP1 in the presence of PS. Taken together, our data suggest that EF-hands 3 and 4 of KChlPl are functionally involved in a specific association with PS on the membrane.}

6 illus, 29 ref

009625   Li M J;Li A Q;Xia H;Zhao C Z;Li C S;Wan S B; Bi Y P;Wang X J (High-Tech Research Center, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Huanghuaihai, Ministry of Agriculture, Ji'nan 250100, China, Email: xingjunw@hotmail.com) : Cloning and sequence analysis of putative type II fatty acid synthase genes from Arachis hypogaea L.. J Biosci, Bangalore 2009, 34(2), 227-38.

The cultivated peanut is a valuable source of dietary oil and ranks fifth among the world oil crops. Plant fatty acid biosynthesis is catalysed by type II fatty acid synthase (FAS) in plastids and mitochondria. By constructing a full-length cDNA library derived from immature peanut seeds and homology-based cloning, candidate genes of acyl carrier protein (ACP), malonyl-CoA:ACP transacylase, β-ketoacyl-ACP synthase (I, II, III), β-ketoacyl-ACP reductase, β-hydroxyacyl-ACP dehydrase and enoyl-ACP reductase were isolated. Sequence alignments revealed that primary structures of type II FAS enzymes were highly conserved in higher plants and the catalytic residues were strictly conserved in Escherichia coli and higher plants. Homologue numbers of each type II FAS gene expressing in developing peanut seeds varied from 1 in KASII, KASIII and HD to 5 in ENR. The number of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) was quite different in each gene. Peanut type II FAS genes were predicted to target plastids except ACP2 and ACP3. The results suggested that peanut may contain two type II FAS systems in plastids and mitochondria. The type II FAS enzymes in higher plants may have similar functions as those in E. coli.

7 illus, 3 tables, 51 ref

009624   Lal A (Biochemistry Dep, Sri Venkateswara College, Delhi Univ, Benito Juarez Road, Dhaula Kuan, New Delhi-110 021, Email: avantikalal1990@gmail.com) : Quorum sensing, how bacteria talk to each other. Resonance 2009, 14(9), 866-71.

Traditionally, social cooperation has been considered tie preserve of higher organisms. Only in relatively recent times have biologists begun to appreciate that bacteria are also highly interactive creatures. They exhibit complex cooperative behaviours, such as conjugal plasmid transfer, biofilm maturation and virulence. Many of these behaviours are regulated by a process known as quorum sensing.

1 illus, 4 ref

009623   Lakshmi Kalpana V;Sudhakar G;Ramesh M; Sobharani M;Bharathi Y N (Human Genetics Dep, Andhra Univ, Visakhapatnam-530 003, Email: kalpanaveerathu@yahoo.com) : Sex chromosomal mosaicism in mentally retarded people. South Asian Anthrop 2009, 9(1), 81-5.

Sex chromosome Mosaicism is one of the causes of mentally retarded people. To find out the sex chromosome mosaicism sex chromatin and the leucocyte blood cultures were carried out in 60 mentally defective people and 60 controls of same age group. Clinical features and secondary sexual characters have also been observed. Dermatoglyphyics and anthropometric measurements were taken from these people. I. Q. Test was performed in all mentally defective people. It was found that out of 60 individuals, a young girl of 19 years age had spontaneous menarche and had most of the classical features of Turners syndrome, such as underdeveloped secondary sexual characters, ovarian dysgenesis, webbing of neck. The external geneitalia were normal. She was very short with 136cms height. The total ridge count on the fingers was greater in study group than the control group. Her I.Q. was low being that of a mentally defective person of very low grade. The proposita was reported as being a triple mosaic 45,X/ 46, XX/ 47, XXX with sex chromatin negative, positive and double positive cell lines.

3 illus, 17 ref

009622   Krishna Mohan P M;Hosur R V (Chemistry and Chemical Biology Dep, Ruters Univ, 610 Taylor Road, Piscataway, NJ-08854, USA, Email: hosur@tifr.res.in) : Structure-function-folding relationships and native energy landscape of dynein light chain protein: nuclear magnetic resonance insights. J Biosci, Bangalore 2009, 34(3), 465-79.

The detailed characterization of the structure, dynamics and folding process of a protein is crucial for understanding the biological functions it performs. Modern biophysical and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) techniques have provided a way to obtain accurate structural and thermodynamic information on various species populated on the energy landscape of a given protein. In this context, we review here the structure-function-folding relationship of an important protein, namely, dynein light chain protein (DLC8). DLC8, the smallest subunit of the dynein motor complex, acts as a cargo adaptor. The protein exists as a dimer under physiological conditions and dissociates into a pure monomer below pH 4. Cargo binding occurs at the dimer interface. Dimer stability and relay of perturbations through the dimer interface are anticipated to be playing crucial roles in the variety of functions the protein performs. NMR investigations have provided great insights into these aspects of DLC8 in recent years.

^iia10 illus, 82 ref