Khanna P;Tripathi N K
009621 Khanna P;Tripathi N K (Zoology Dep, Govt. College for Women, Parade Ground, Jammu-180 001) : Genotoxic effect of lead acetate on polytene chromosomes of Chironomus plumosus form B (Chironomidae : Diptera). J appl Biosci 2009, 35(2), 150-4.
In chromosome arms AB, CD, EF, and G a significantly high frequency of chromosome aberrations was observed in the larvae exposed to lead acetate. Deletions in chromosome arm G occurred in high frequency, while heterozygous inversions and instances of asynapsis were recorded in the other three chromosome arms. These structural alterations are interpreted as a reaction of the genome to the stressful rearing conditions.
6 illus, 1 table, 21 ref
Karanth A
009620 Karanth A (NO, Amherst College, ACNo.1097, Keefe Campus Center, Amherst, MA 01002, USA, Email: akamath11@amherst.edu) : What is the unit of natural selection?, Is the gene's eye view of evolution unacceptably reductionist?. Resonance 2009, 14(11), 1047-59.
Gene as the solution to the debate over the level at which natural selection acts has often been termed as too reductionist, but is this a valid criticism? Exploring this question in the context of nonlinearity illuminates not only the debate over the unit of natural selection but also the broader debate on reductionism versus holism in science.
1 illus, 6 ref
Kalita P C;Singh G K
009619 Kalita P C;Singh G K (Anatomy & Histology Dep, College of Veterinary Sciences & Animal Husbandry, Central Agricultura, Selesih, Aizwal, Mizoram-796 014) : Structural and functional dynamics of M-cell. J Immun Immunopath 2009, 11(1), 15-20.
Microfold cells- (M-cells) of the follicle-associated epithelium (FAE) of the mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) in gut play an important role in the genesis of both mucosal and systemic immune responses by delivering antigenic substrate to the underlying lymphoid tissue where immune responses start. A major branch of the immune system operates in mucosal tissues, providing these surfaces with protective secretory antibodies. The M-cells are restricted to the dome epithelium and transcytose not only antigens but also entire microorganisms from the lumen to the gut associated lymphoid tissue. Microfold cells are currently identified by the histochemical markers such as lectins and antibodies against the cytokeratins 8, 18 and 19 under the light microscopy. They are unequivocally epithelial cells and are interspersed among the enterocytes of the dome epithelium. Two different theories on M cell genesis in the FAE have been formulated. First, it was postulated that M-cells may originate in the crypts as a distinct cell lineage from stem cells via an independent differentiation programme; alternatively, it was thought that they may be formed by the conversion of FAE enterocytes upon interaction with the local lymphoid micro-environment. The brush border of M cell is poorly organized with short irregular microvilli, and the thick glycocalyx associated with absorptive cells is absent. These adaptations allow easy access of luminal material to the apical domain of M-cells, where it is internalized and then transported to the underlying lymphoid tissue. Unlike other intestinal epithelial cells, a characteristic of M-cells is that, they possess deeply invaginated basolateral surfaces that form intraepithelial pockets harbouring a wide variety of lymphocyte subsets that migrate to this unique compartment from lymphoid tissue. And this M cell pockets facilitate the contact between the incoming antigens and the specialized immune system in an environment separated from regulatory elements of the mucosal immune systems. It was also reported that M-cells are provided with enzymatic components, including cathepsin E typical of antigen-presenting cells. Although the presence of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II molecules remains controversial, it, was reported by some authors that M-cells expressed la molecules on the basolateral plasma membrane and organelles, such as prelysosome, lysosome and endosome and the expression of which was enhanced by pretreatment with interferon (IFN-a). The notion that M-cells are not only simple conduits for antigen transport and may have a more active role in the early phase of mucosal immune responses is also suggested by their ability to produce immunoregulatory cytokines, such as interleukin IL-1. Although some vesicles in the M cell apical cytoplasm contain the endosomal protease cathepsin E, the late endosome/lysosome membrane marker IgP 120 and generate an acidic internal milieu, antigens and microorganisms are generally delivered intact and alive across M-cells.
47 ref
John E
009618 John E (Zoology Dep, Kongunadu Arts and Science College, Bharathiar Univ, Coimbatore-641 029, Email: elizabethmoji@gmail.com) : Physico-chemical studies of river Pumba and distribution of prawn, Macrobrachium rosenbergii. J envir Biol 2009, 30(5), 709-12.
Physico-chemical factors of river Pumba, Kerala has been analyzed to understand its relationship with the distribution of Giant river prawn, Macrobrachium rosenbergii in the water body. Water samples were taken from two sites on the basis of presence and absence of juveniles. Analysis of temperature, pH, turbidity, dissolved oxygen, dissolved carbondioxide and salinity of the water samples revealed that except salinity all the other parameters were identical in both the regions. Salinity was high i. e., 5 - 8%o in lower Kuttanad region, where juveniles were seen. In upper Kuttanad region, where only adults were located, the salinity was of freshwater pattern i.e., 2.1-2.9%o. The gut content analysis of M. rosenbergii in both the regions showed similar food pattern. The study reveals the significance of a water body with high saline region for breeding purpose and low saline region i. e., freshwater pattern for adult prawns in the life cycle of M. rosenbergii.
4 tables, 25 ref
Jawale C A;Rohikar R V;Mendkudale D V;Babare M G
009617 Jawale C A;Rohikar R V;Mendkudale D V;Babare M G (Zoology Dep, S.M.P. College, Murum-413 605) : Seasonal variation in different physico-chemical parameters of second terna makani reservoir in relation to pisciculture, Osmanabad district, Maharashtra. J Aquatic Biol 2009, 24(1), 87-90.
Second Terna reservoir is medium size reservoir, constructed on the Terna river, near village Makani, Tq- Lohara, Dist - Osmanabad. M.S. The reservoir is located 2 to 3 Kms away from present Makani village. The water spread area of the reservoir is large. The reservoir is used for irrigation and supply of drinking water to various villages and also for pisciculture. Seasonal variation of different physico - chemical characteristics were studied form Jan. to Dec.- 2007 and provide valuable information to the planners for restructuring of the reservoirs. The water quality parameters like Temperature, pH. Dissolved oxygen, Total alkalinity, Calcium, Magnesium, Total hardness, Turbidity, Total dissolved Solids (TDS). Were analysed in a seasons. The various parameters are fluctuation in the monsoon, winter and summer seasons. The result indicates that the reservoir is an suitable for pisciculture. The reservoir is not polluted and water can be used for irrigation, drinking purpose and suitable for pisciculture.
5 tables, 13 ref
Gupta A;Usharani L
009616 Gupta A;Usharani L (Life Sciences Dep, Manipur Univ, Canchipur, Imphal-795 003, Email: anjalika_22000@yahoo.co.in ) : Rainfall partitioning in a tropical forest of Manipur, North East India. Trop Ecol 2009, 50(2), 355-8.
3 tables, 16 ref
Gulfer B;Coskun M;Kayis T;Emre I
009615 Gulfer B;Coskun M;Kayis T;Emre I (Biology Dep, Faculty of Science and Letters, Cukurova Univ - 01330, Balcali, Adana, Turkey, Email: mcoskun@adiyaman.edu.tr) : Impact of organophosphorus insecticide, malathion on the progeny sex ratio or Pimpla turionellae L.. J envir Biol 2009, 30(5), 727-30.
The effects of 0.001,0.01, 0.1 and 0.5 ppm concentrations ofmalathion, an organophosphorus insecticide, viewedoverthe course of the experiment, on adult emergence and sex ratios of emerging adults of the parasitic wasp, Pimpla turionellae L. (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae) were investigated. Diets which contain 0.001 and 0.01 ppm malathion significantly increased the total adult emergence on day 13, 28 and 31 when compared to control diet. Although 0.01 and 0.1 ppm malathion increased the female emergence, higher concentration of malathion (0.5 ppm) significantly decreased the female emergence. Adult female emergence significantly decreased on day 10, 16 and 25 in the group which was fed with the meridic diet containing 0.5 ppm malathion. This study indicated that orally administrated high concentration of malathion (0.5 ppm) significantly decreased female emergence of P. turionellae.
3 tables, 30 ref
Gavimath C C;Kangralkar V A;Shanmuga Priya V G;Kundargi R
009614 Gavimath C C;Kangralkar V A;Shanmuga Priya V G;Kundargi R (Biotechnology Dep, KLESs Coll of Engng and Technology, Belgaum-590 008) : Evaluation of antibacterial and anti-inflammatory potentials of essential oil of Citrus reticulata. Adv Pharmac Toxic 2009, 10(3), 31-4.
The plant Citrus reticulata belonging to the family Rutaceae. In the study essential oil produced from fruit rind of Citrus reticulata by hydrodistillation using a Clevenger-type system. Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory potentials of the essential oil were evaluated. Antibacterial property of the oil is determined by disc diffusion method and it had shown promising results against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aureginosa, Bacillus subtilis, Klebsiella pneumoniae. Also aimed at finding the anti-inflammatory potentials of the essential oil of citrus fruit rind in Wistar albino rats at a dose of 200mg/kg body weight the experimental model used for evaluating anti-inflammatory property was carrageenan induced paw edema in rats. The result exhibited more significant anti-inflammatory property.
2 tables, 10 ref
Gandhi G;Bhel V
009613 Gandhi G;Bhel V (Human Genetics Dep, Guru Nanak Dev Univ, Amritsar-143 005, Email: gandhig07@hotmail.com) : Phytohaemagglutinin laboratory preparation used as a mitogen in peripheral blood lymphocyte cultures of infertile couples. South Asian Anthrop 2009, 9(1), 37-44.
An abrupt and acute shortage of commercially available phytohemagluttinin (PHA) prompted the use of a crude extract of the locally available Phaseolus vulgaris beans as a mitogen for inducing peripheral blood lymphocytes to divide in culture. Following an initial phase of setting-up of lymphocyte cultures of 15 individuals, the crude extract was then utilized for studying chromosomal aberrations in peripheral blood lymphocyte cultures of both the partners (n = 10) of some infertile couples as the mitotic index observed for control cultures was fairly high and comparable to that observed with the commercially available PHA. Cytogenetic investigations revealed a normal chromosomal count (n = 46) in each case and the count of G-group chromosomes related with the phenotypic sex of the individuals. Karyotypic analysis carried out on R-banded preparations also did not reveal any gross structural chromosomal aberrations at the band levels scored, however, some cells of a female with secondary amenorrhea exhibited centromere separation. It is suggested that high resolution banding and molecular analysis in such cases can assist in understanding the cause(s) of infertility.
3 tables, 41 ref
Dhiman S R;Mandeep Kaur;Khanna D;Gurlovleen Kaur;Balgir P P
009612 Dhiman S R;Mandeep Kaur;Khanna D;Gurlovleen Kaur;Balgir P P (Human Biology Dep, Punjabi Univ, Patiala-147 002, Email: dhimanshobha@hotmail.com) : G3m typing at the genomic level in the normal populations of Punjab, North India. South Asian Anthrop 2009, 9(1), 55-63.
Two G3m allotypes, G3m(b) and G3m(g) were analyzed in a group of normal population (n = 92) of Punjab, North India, belonging to six caste groups - Jats, Brahmins, Scheduled Castes, Rajputs, Baniyas and 'others', in the 20-30 years' age group. The subclass specific enzymatic amplification of a DNA segment comprising a major portion of the second and third constant region domain (CH2 and CH3) for the human IgG3 heavy chain gene was carried out with the help of a pair of primers. The amplified DNA samples were digested with restriction enzyme Rsal. This PCR based assay permitted the distinction of G3mb and G3m8 alleles by analyzing the electrophoretic mobility of the DNA fragments generated by the PCR product with Rsal. Digested products were analyzed on PAGE (12%) and stained with silver nitrate. Caste-wise comparison of G3m(b) and G3m(g) genotype frequencies reveals very interesting results for the six broad based caste groups of Punjab studied. In all the caste groups the homozygous 'gg' genotype is higher than the 'bb' genotype, except in the case of Rajputs, where it is found to be the reverse. The heterozygous 'bg' allotype is highest in the case of Banias and lowest in the SC's. The present results have been compared with previous studies on Indian population for G3m (bb), G3m (bg) and G3m (gg) allotypes.
20 ref
Das S;Yennamalli R M;Vishnoi A;Gupta P; Bhattacharya A
009611 Das S;Yennamalli R M;Vishnoi A;Gupta P; Bhattacharya A (Center for Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, School of Informa, Jawaharlal Nehru Univ, New Delhi-110 067, Email: alok200@mail.jnu.ac.in) : Single-nucleotide variations associated with Mycobacterium tuberculosis KwaZulu-Natal strains. J Biosci, Bangalore 2009, 34(3), 397-404.
The occurrence of drug resistance in Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the aetiological agent of tuberculosis (TB), is hampering the management and control of TB in the world. Presents a computational analysis of recently sequenced drug-sensitive (DS), multidrug-resistant (MDR) and extensively drug-resistant (XDR) strains of M. tuberculosis. Single-nucleotide variations (SNVs) were identified in a pair-wise manner using the anchor-based whole genome comparison (ABWGC) tool and its modified version. For this analysis, four fully sequenced genomes of different strains of M. tuberculosis were taken along with three KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) strains isolated from South Africa including one XDR and one MDR strain. KZN strains were compared with other fully sequenced strains and also among each other. The variations were analysed with respect to their biological influence as a result of either altered structure or synthesis. The results suggest that the DR phenotype may be due to changes in a number of genes. The database on KZN strains can be accessed through the website http://mirna.jnu.ac.in/mgdd/.
3 illus, 1 table, 33 ref
Chattopadhyay M K
009610 Chattopadhyay M K (Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, , Hyderabad-500 007, Email: mkc@ccmb.res.in) : Life without water. Resonance 2009, 14(1), 65.
4 ref
Borges R
009609 Borges R (Centre for Ecological Sci, Indian Inst of Sci, Bangalore-560 012, Email: renee@ces.iisc.ernet.in) : Revolutions in evolutionary thought: darwin and after. Resonance 2009, 14(2), 102-23.
7 ref
Barathy S;Sivaruban T;Arunachalam M
009608 Barathy S;Sivaruban T;Arunachalam M (Sriparamakalyani Centre for Environmental Sceinces, Manonmaniam Sundarnagar Univ, Alwarkurichi-627 412, Email: barathyrubam@gmail.com) : Efffect of phenolic compound drugson certain metabilites of liver in oreochromis mossambicus. Uttar Pradesh J Zool 2009, 29(1), 17-21.
Some common analgesic and antipyretic drugs are known to be phenolic compounds. Examples are calpol, metacin and cosavil which contain paracetamol. Liver as the detoxifying organ is known to degrade any phenolic drugs that are orally administered. Such degradative intermediates, sometimes even have carcinogenic effect. In the study, two paracetamol drugs, calpol and flexam (the later containing an additional phenolic derivative) were orally fed to Oreochromis mossambicus on long term basis. Free amino acids, proteins, lipids in the liver have been estimated. The accumulation of phenolic compounds has not been studied as such analysis demands finer sensitive techniques. Only the possible side effects of the drugs are studied. All three major biomolecules show a general decline, the significance of which is discussed.
2 illus, 2 tables, 14 ref
Babitha B;Kiran Mayi P;Syamala T
009607 Babitha B;Kiran Mayi P;Syamala T (Foods and Nutrition Dep, Biochem Dep, Acharya Nagarjuna Univ, Nag arieuna Nagar, Guntur--522 510) : Antibacterial and preservative activities of essential oils extracted from cinnamon and clove. Adv Pharmac Toxic 2009, 10(3), 65-8.
Antibacterial and preservative activities of essential oils extracted from cinnamon and clove were studied. The inhibitory effect of cinnamon and clove oils were detected for growth off our microorganisms, including Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus megatherium and Serratia marcescens. The results indicated that these oils exhibited a potent antibacterial activity against test organisms at 1:5 concentration. The highest antibacterial activity was found against E.coli (cinnamon oil- 33.3 mm, clove oil- 14.3 mm) inhibitory zone diameter at lower oil concentrations, respectively. Therefore, study shows that cinnamon oil is a more potent antimicrobial agent than clove oil and that it has the potential to be used as food preservative.
5 tables, 12 ref
Azmi M A;Naqvi S N H;Akhtar K;Moinuddin; Shahida Parveen;Rehana Parveen;Aslam M
009606 Azmi M A;Naqvi S N H;Akhtar K;Moinuddin; Shahida Parveen;Rehana Parveen;Aslam M (Physiology Dep, Baqai Medical Univ, 51-Dh tor, Gadap Road, Near Toll Plaza, Super Highway, P.O. Box No. 2407, Karachi-74600, Pakistan, Email: azmiahmed@hotmail.com) : Effect of pesticide residues on health and blood parameters of farm workers from rural Gadap, Karachi, Pakistan. J envir Biol 2009, 30(5), 747-56.
Samples were collected from 83 persons on 1 day (reading-l), 7 days (reading-//) and 30 days (reading-Ill) engaged in pesticide spraying in fourteen different fruit and vegetable farm stations located in the orchards ofGadap (rural area), Karachi-Pakistan. In the present study, 26 workers out of 83 who were exposed to different pesticides (i. e., cypennethrin, deltamethrin, polytrin-C, diazninon, monocrotophos, DDT and DDE) were compared with 25 healthy control persons. Different blood parameters were determined in comparison to control subjects. The results indicate some alterations in blood indices in all the pesticide exposed persons, and only two persons from two different stations were affected severely and therefore their Hb, MCV, MCHC, TLC, monocyte and neutrophil counts increased significantly. High lymphocyte count was noted in almost all the exposed persons. Platelets count was also found high in few persons but Hb,MCV, MCH, TLC, RBC and neutrophil counts significantly decreased in such persons. Exposure of multiple pesticides for prolong period has also affected the health of exposed persons and produced dermatological, hepatic, nephritic, respiratory and other clinical disorders reflecting the toxic effects of pesticides. Our findings indicate that indiscriminate use of pesticides in farming environments must be regularly assessed and farm workers must be trained for safe use of pesticides.
3 tables, 32 ref
Arakaki P A;Marques M R;Santos M C L G
009605 Arakaki P A;Marques M R;Santos M C L G (Univ Federal of Parana, Centro Politecnico, Rua Francisco H. dos Santos, Jd. das Americas, 81531-990, Curitiba PR, Brazil, Email: mariacristina@ufpr.br) : MMP-1 polymorphism and its relationship to pathological processes. J Biosci, Bangalore 2009, 34(2), 313-20.
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a family of zinc (Zn)-dependent endopeptidases that are collectively capable of cleaving virtually all extracellular matrix (ECM) substrates and play an important role in diverse physiological and pathological processes. The activity of MMPs is regulated at multiple levels. The transcriptional regulation of MMP appears to represent the key step in MMP regulation. There are diverse types of MMPs that differ structural and functionally. MMP-1 is the most ubiquitously expressed interstitial collagenase and has a prominent role in initial cleavage of the ECM. The level of MMP-1 expression can be influenced by different single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the promoter region. A functional polymorphism at position -1607 has been shown to alter the transcriptional activity of MMP-1 and was associated with diverse pathological processes. The aim of our review was to discuss some topics related to MMP in physiological and pathological processes, with a focus on MMP-1 polymorphism.
^iia1 table, 67 ref
Vashist M;Kachroo S;Yadav R
008514 Vashist M;Kachroo S;Yadav R (Genetics Dep, M.D.U., Rohtak (Haryana)) : ATD angle : a diagnostic tool in down syndrome patients. Natn J Life Sci 2009, 6(1), 93-7.
Dermatoglyphies is the configuration formed by the dermal ridges on fingers, toes and feet of a particular individual The pattern once formed, except for change in size do not change in the remaining life (Uchida and Saiton,1963). Dermatoglyphic configurations are important in investigating chromosomal abnormalities. With the discovery of trisomy as the cause of mongolism, it is proved that characteristic abnormal dermal patterns might be dependent upon the presence of extra genetic material. Variation in the Dermatoglyphics in a population can be a tool to analyse genetic make up and any deviation is a strong indicative of inherited abnormality or altered genotype. Atd angle measured from the palm of 109 Down syndrome patients which were compared with those obtained from 300 normal persons. Atd angle of different ranges (
4 illus, 3 tables, 15 ref
Vaijayanthi;Julie Sunny R
008513 Vaijayanthi;Julie Sunny R (Faculty of Education, Avinashilingam Women Univ, Coimbatore-641 043) : Stress among student teachers in Coimbatore city. Res Highlight 2010, 20(1), 51-7.
5 tables, 5 ref
Tripathi M M;Dwivedi M K
008512 Tripathi M M;Dwivedi M K (Mathematics and Astronomy Dep, Lucknow Univ, Lucknow-226 007, Email: mmtripathi66@yahoo.com) : Structure of some classes of K-contact manifolds. Proc Indian Acad Sci-Mathl Sci 2008, 118(3), 371-9.
Study projective curvature tensor in K - contact and Sasakian manifolds. We prove that (1) if a K-contact manifold is quasi projectively flat then it is Einstein and (2) a K-contact manifold is ξ-projectively flat if and only if it is Einstein Sasakian. Necessary and sufficient conditions for a K-contact manifold to be quasi projectively flat and φ-projectively flat are obtained. We also prove that for a (2n + 1) -dimensional Sasakian manifold the conditions of being quasi projectively flat, φ-projectively flat and locally isometric to the unit sphere S2n+1(l) are equivalent. Finally, we prove that a compact φ-projectively flat K-contact manifold with regular contact vector field is a principal S1-bundle over an almost Kaehler space of constant holomorphic sectional curvature 4.
9 ref
Sudamani Ramaswamy;R A
008511 Sudamani Ramaswamy;R A (Mathematics Dep, Avinashilingam Women Univ, Coimbatore 43) : Statistical analysis of M/M/C model. Res Highlight 2010, 20(1), 27-32.
1 table, 3 ref
Singh U;Kunwar A;Priyadarsini K I;Srinivasan R;Nanjan M J
008510 Singh U;Kunwar A;Priyadarsini K I;Srinivasan R;Nanjan M J (Radiation & Photochemistry Div, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Trombay, Mumbai-400 085) : Differential free radical scavenging activity and radioprotection of Caesalpinia digyna extracts and its active constituent. BARC Newsl 2009, 309(Oct; spl), 311-18.
Two extracts E1 and E2 were prepared from the dried root of the plant Caesalpinia digyna by extracting with solvents of different polarities. The extracts were standardized with respect to a polyphenol, bergenin, by LC- MS analysis and they were subjected to free radical scavenging activity and in vitro radioprotection studies. Free radical reactions were carried out with superoxide, hydroxyl, and peroxyl radicals and DPPH. In vitro radioprotecting activity was studied, by following their effect on γ - radiation-induced lipid peroxidation, protein carbonylation and DNA damage. The results indicated that E1 with higher free radical scavenging is also a more potent inhibitor of radiation-induced damage to proteins, DNA and liposomes than E2. Comparing the results with those for bergenin indicated that, bergenin alone is not responsible for the free radical scavenging ability and in vitro radioprotection. The studies also confirmed, that the extracts enriched with bergenin are more effective than the isolated polyphenol, bergenin.
2 illus, 2 tables, 5 ref
Sharma V;Tiku A K;Bhagat M
008509 Sharma V;Tiku A K;Bhagat M (Biochemistry and Plant Physiol. Dep, Sher-e-Kashmir Agri. Sci. & Tech. Univ, Jammu (J&K)) : Hot water extract of Centella asiatica shows in vitro cytotoxicity against human lung and colon cancer cell lines. Life Sci Bull 2009, 6(1), 1-4.
In vitro cytotoxic assay of the whole plant of Centella asiatica has been carried out against four human cancer cell lines from two different tissues via 95% ethanolic, 50% ethanolic and hot water extract at the concentration of 100 μg/ml. Significant cytotoxic effect was shown by the hot water extract as it inhibited the growth of two human cancer cell lines, viz., A-549 (from lung origin) and COLO-205 (from colon origin). The growth inhibition by the other two extracts (alcoholic and 50% alcoholic) was found to be negligible.
1 table, 8 ref
Sharma D;Sandur S K;Checker R;Raghu R;Sainis K B;Khanam S
008508 Sharma D;Sandur S K;Checker R;Raghu R;Sainis K B;Khanam S (Radiation Biology & Health Sciences Div, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Trombay, Mumbai-400 085) : Role fo specific signalling molecules during proliferation of CD4+ T cells in response to different stimuli. BARC Newsl 2009, 309(Oct; spl), 293-301.
CD4 + helper T cells, are known to divide in response to diverse stimuli, including mitogens and lymphopenia. Our earlier studies had shown that Pl3kinase and mTOR were redundant for Homeostasis Driven Proliferation (HDP), but not for Mitogen Driven Proliferation (MDP). Experiments were carried out to study the gene expression pattern in CD4 + T cells, after Mitogen Driven Proliferation (MDP) and HDP. Spleen cells were isolated from BALB/c mice and CD4+ T cells were sorted, using antibody coated magnetic beads and were injected into syngenic lymphopenic mice. The cells were recovered from the host, after 4 -19 days of injection. In another set, lymphocytes were stimulated with concanavalin A for 24 hr and CD4+ T cells were separated. These ceils were used for RNA amplification and hybridization. Gene expression analysis was carried out, using Ocichip (Ocimum Biosolutions, Hyderabad). Cytokine production was studied by ELISA. Out of a total of 28,800 genes, 91 genes were found to be highly upregulated in CD4+ T cells during HDP and MDP. Eight genes were specifically highly upregulated during HDP, but not during MDP. Only one gene was upregulated during MDP and not during HDP. A total of 38 genes were suppressed (
3 illus, 22 ref
Shanmuganandam K T
008507 Shanmuganandam K T (NO, Avinashilingam Women Univ, Coimbatore-641 043) : Juvenile crime-alarming increase. Res Highlight 2010, 20(1), 1-2.
Pawar B T;Papdiwal P B
008506 Pawar B T;Papdiwal P B (Botany Dep, Dr. Badasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada Univ, Aurangabad, (M.S.)) : Pectolytic enzyme producing ability of Xanthomonas campestris pv. mangiferaeindicae. Natn J Life Sci 2009, 6(1), 21-4.
Bacterium Xanthomonas campestris pv. mangiferaeindlcae (Xcmi) is the incitant of Mango bacteriaPcanker disease (MBCD).In vitro studies performed with the pathogen, indicated that it is capable of producing pectolytic enzymes. In the present study, production of macerating enzyme and polygalacturonas was observed by 11 strains of Xcmi cultivated in medium containing pectin. The pectolytic enzyme producing ability of Xcmi strains was found adaptive in nature.
2 tables, 10 ref
Namdeo A K;Shrivastava P
008505 Namdeo A K;Shrivastava P (Limnology Dep, Barkatullah Univ, Bhopal (M.P.)) : Restoration and management strategy for tropical wetlands in central India. Life Sci Bull 2009, 6(1), 71-3.
The district Tikamgarh has a vast number of man - made tanks, some of them were constructed by Chandela rulers during the 8th and 9th A.D. but with the passage of time these water bodies getting degraded and some of them disappeared due to various reasons like; change in land use pattern, un-organized urbanization, agricultural run-off, over exploitation of water resources etc. and therefore, there is a need to devise a strategy for their restoration and conservation, for the development of sustainable environment. The same has been discussed.
1 table, 9 ref
Nabavi S M B;Ghotbeddin N;Kochanian P;Madise S D
008504 Nabavi S M B;Ghotbeddin N;Kochanian P;Madise S D (NO, University of Marine Science and Technology, Iran) : Dominant bivalve populations of Hendijan coast (Persian gulf). Natn Acad Sci Lett 2008, 31(9-10), 297-303.
In study 5 species of Veneridae were identified: Circenita collipyga, Gafrarium pectinatum, Bassina calophylla, Paphia gallus and Paphia textile. The abundance and percentage of frequency for each species were measured. The highest frequency of occurrence was observed in Circenita callipyga with ratio 88.69 and abundance 8668 No/m2 and other species had low ratio. Juvenile had 9.93 in ratio and 971 No/m2 in abundance. The effect of temperature, salinity and particle size of sediment as three main environmental parameters on benthos frequency were investigated. Significant relation was found in frequency and particle size between 63-125 micrometer but there was no significant relation between frequency and other factors. Diversity indices showed poor diversity of Venerid population in north of Persian gulf.
^ssc6 illus, 27 ref
Mukherjee K
008503 Mukherjee K (School of Health System Studies, Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Deonar, Mumbai) : Issues in Market oriented health care reforms in the context of developing countries. J Datta Meghe Inst Med Sci Univ 2008, 3(2), 55-8.
25 ref
Kshirsagar R;Nandan S N;Chaudhari T R
008502 Kshirsagar R;Nandan S N;Chaudhari T R (NO, Prof. Rakakrishna More College, Akurdi, Pune-44) : Effect of Jatropha curcas extract on haematological and biochemical parameters in rats. Oikoassay 2008, 21(1-2), 37-8.
An investigation in to the possible effect of the aqueous extract of Jatropha curcas on some haematological and biochemical parameter was carried out on albino rats. The extract was observed to cause a significant reduction (p
2 tables, 5 ref
Khesar R R;Karpe A G;Zade N N
008501 Khesar R R;Karpe A G;Zade N N (National Institute of Virology, , Pune) : Virulence characteristics and plasmid profiles of Staphylococcus from milk and fishes. J Vet Publ Hlth 2008, 6(1), 33-6.
Total of 75 raw milk and 75 fresh water fish were studied for the presence of Staphylococci. A total of 26 isolates, 17 from raw milk and 9 from fish were obtained. Isolates were identified as Staphytococcus aureus (9), Staph. intermedius(9) and Staph. hyicus (5) and rest 3 were staphylococci with variable results. Out of 26 isolates, 11 produced haemolysin, 23 coagulase, 25 DNAse, 17 clumping factor, 20 gelatinase, 25 catalase and 9 were exfoliation reaction (Nikolsky sign) positive. Only one out of 26 isolates was without any plasmid, whereas remaining 25 isolates possessed 1 to 4 plasmid(s) with molecular weight between 3.90 kb to 14.29 kb.
1 illus, 1 table, 16 ref
Kamble V A;Misra H S
008500 Kamble V A;Misra H S (Molecular Biology Div, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Trombay, Mumbai-400 085) : Reversible protein phosphorylation controls the nucleolytic DNA degradation in a radioresistant bacterium deinococcus radiodurans. BARC Newsl 2009, 309(Oct; spl), 276-83.
Deinococcus radiodurans R1 exhibits the extraordinary ability, to reassemble the nearly 3000 single strand breaks and 200 DNA double strand breaks, produced from 6.5kGyγ radiation and desiccation with less 5% humidity. This bacterium has nearly similar DNA recombination and DNA repair complements of a radiation-sensitive bacterium, Escherichia coli, except the absence of RecBC recombination pathway proteins. However, the unique mechanism of fragmented genome protection from nucleolytic degradation, possibly makes this bacterium outperform other organisms. The molecular mechanism of DNA protection from nuclease attack is not clearly understood. This study reports novel findings, suggesting the high-energy attenuation of nuclease activity in Deinococcus, a unique process that controls nucleolytic degradation of DNA, during post irradiation recovery of γ irradiated cells. Cell free extracts of γ irradiated D. radiodurans exhibit less nucleolytic degradation of double stranded DNA than E. coli. However, unlike E. coli, which showed ATP-dependent stimulation of nuclease function, deinococcal nuclease activity was reduced by addition of exogenous ATP. The nuclease activity was constitutive, but the ATP responsive inhibitory function was sensitive to chloramphenicol and was γ-radiation inducible. Inhibitors of protein kinase A activity prevent ATP-dependent inhibition of nuclease activity. The nuclease inhibition was alleviated by dephosphorylation, which upon incubation with ATP in the presence of phosphatase inhibitor, could be resumed. This suggested that the nuclease function is regulated by reversible protein phosphorylation. We suggest, that the ability to control nuclease activity during post-irradiation, provides D. radiodurans with an advantage over less DNA damage-tolerant species. DNA degradation proceeds until the substrates necessary for strand annealing are generated, after which the potentially lethal nuclease activity can be shut off, preventing excessive DNA degradation.
6 illus, 12 ref
Gowri Amirtha R;Lalsienthar;Welhelmina S
008499 Gowri Amirtha R;Lalsienthar;Welhelmina S (Family and Community Science Dep, Avinashilingam Women Univ, Coimbatore-641 043) : Effect of education on reproductive health care among selected adolescent girls in Manipur. Res Highlight 2010, 20(1), 3-10.
3 tables, 5 ref
Gadbail A;Korde S;Patil R;Patil S;Gawande M; Chaudhary M
008498 Gadbail A;Korde S;Patil R;Patil S;Gawande M; Chaudhary M (Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology & Microbiology Dep, Sharad Pawar Dental College, Swangi (Meghe), Wardha) : Schwannoma clinically mimicking a reactive lesion : an unusual clinical presentation. J Datta Meghe Inst Med Sci Univ 2008, 3(2), 104-8.
Schwannoma (neurilemmoma) is a benign neoplasm arising from Schwann cells in the peripheral nerve sheath. It is a relatively uncommon oral lesion, tongue being the most frequent site. This is a case report of schwannoma with unusual clinical presentation and local aggressiveness. Clinically, the growth mimicked a reactive lesion of interdental gingiva. Only on histopathological analysis the lesion was diagnosed as schwannoma. This article emphasizes the importance of augmenting clinical diagnosis with histopathological analysis, so as to confirm the identity of a lesion. It is important in planning the preventive/therapeutic treatment and predicting the prognosis of such lesions.
^ccr9 illus, 9 ref
Aithal S C;Sirdeshpande P S;Wakte P S
008497 Aithal S C;Sirdeshpande P S;Wakte P S (Microbiology Dep, Dnyanopasak College, Parbhani, (M.S.)) : Empirical study describing effect of different parameters on nisin production and its biological activity. Life Sci Bull 2009, 6(1), 119-23.
Nisin is a small gene encoded antimicrobial protein produced by Lactococcus lactis. Interestingly, nisin effectively kills bacteria in nanomolar concentration and has been found to be antimicrobial against Gram-positive bacteria. Nisin not only is the most extensively studied but also is the only bacteriocin approved for applications in food by FDA. In the present study Nisin production was carried out with Lactococcus lactis and the effect of various media component and concomitant release of nisin into the media were observed. MRS medium with either glucose or sucrose as carbon supplemented with yeast extract, tryptone or ammonium sulphate as a nitrogen source and effect of CaCO3 at varying concentrations was studied on nisin production at various pH. The nisin produced was assayed by agar diffusion using Bacillus sp. as the sensitive test organism. Results showed that sucrose in a medium increased the nisin production as compared to glucose and both ingredients yeast extract and tryptone increased nisin production, although a small decrease in nisin level was noted at high tryptone concentration, increase in CaCO3 concentration increased nisin production and ammonium sulphate was not found to be favorable for this purpose. The optima! H+for nisin production was observed to be pH 6 and high pH reduced the nisin production. The observed response suggests that media supplemented with sucrose, increasing concentration of yeast extract and optimal addition of CaCO3 favor the conditions for nisin production.
1 illus, 4 tables, 18 ref
Ahmed F;Urooj A
008496 Ahmed F;Urooj A (Studies in Food Science and Nutrition Dep, Mysore Univ, Mysore, Karnatka) : Antoxidant activities of various extracts of Ficus racemosa stem bark. Natn J Life Sci 2009, 6(1), 69-74.
Investigation evaluated antioxidant activities of Ficus racemosa bark extracts by three in vitro methods viz-, DPPH free radical scavenging assay, reducing power and lipid peroxidation inhibition using rat liver homogenate as substrate. The total phenolic content was also estimated. The extracts exhibited varying degrees of antioxidant activities in terms of radical scavenging, reducing power and lipid peroxide inhibition in a dose dependent manner and antioxidant activities were comparable with those of α-tocopherol and butylated hydroxyl toluene (BHT). A positive correlation was found between the total phenolic content and the antioxidant activities. Among the various solvent extracts, acetone, methanol and water extracts inhibited the formation of lipid peroxides to a significant extent and restored the glutathione content in the liver homogenate nearer to the initial values. The results suggested that, F.racemosa bark is a rich source of phenolic compounds and possesses a strong antioxidant activity besides, being a proven hypoglycemic agent which makes it most suitable for its use in the management of diabetes.
4 illus, 1 table, 14 ref
Abubakar A;Kundangar M R D
008495 Abubakar A;Kundangar M R D (Faculty of Fisheries, S.K. Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir Univ, Shuhama, Alasteng, Srinagar, Kashmir) : Ecological status of some floodplain lakes within Jhelum river basin, Kashmir. Nat Envir Pollut Technol 2008, 7(4), 719-28.
Analyses attribute of plankton communities and macrophytes along with environmental variables of five floodplain lakes within Jhelum River basin, during various seasons of the year 2005-2006. The Bacillariophyceae dominated Chlorophyceae and Cyanophyceae in all the lakes whereas zooplankton communities were predominated by rotifers except for the deepest lake Manasbal, where copepods were the dominant group. A close association of Ceratophyllum-Myriophyllum and less frequently with Nymphoides was observed in all the lakes. The waters of all the studied lakes were alkaline and well buffered. The high content of chloride is indicative of presence of organic matter while progressive increase in nitrogen and phosphorus in all the lakes could be attributed to anthropogenic pressure and sewage contamination. The chemical parameters in all the lakes are on higher side when compared to earlier records.
3 illus, 1 tables, 15 ref
Vasuki V;Hoti S L;Patra K P
006345 Vasuki V;Hoti S L;Patra K P (NO, Vector Control Research Centre (ICMR), Indira Nagar, Medical Complex, Puducherry-605 006, Email: slhoti@yahoo.com) : RT-PCR assay for the detection of infective (L3) larvae of lymphatic filarial parasite, Wuchereria bancrofti, in vector mosquito Culex quinquefasciatus. J Vector Borne Dis 2008, 45(3), 207-16.
Main objective of this study was to develop a RT-PCR assay, based on L3 stage-specific primers to detect the presence of infective stage larvae of filarial parasite, Wuchereria bancrofti in the vector Culex quinquefasciatus. Subtracted probe development technique was employed for the identification of infective stage (L3) specific genes. The subtracted cDNA was labeled by non-radioisotopic method and used for screening cDNA library of L3 stage larvae of W. bancrofti constructed in UniZap XR. Recombinants were probed and identified from the library. The inserts of the recombinant clones were purified and sequenced. Primers were designed based on the sequence information of three recombinant clones for detecting L3 larvae of W. bancrofti in the vector by RT-PCR assay. Preliminary laboratory evaluation was carried out to assess the sensitivity and specificity of WbL31 RT-PCR assay. cDNA library of L3 stage of W. bancrofti constructed in UniZap XR vector, constituted 5x105 phages with 80-90% recombinant phages and the size of inserts varied from 0.1 to 1.0 kb. When subtracted cDNA was random prime labeled and used for screening cDNA library of L3 stage of W. bancrofti constructed in UniZap XR, 18 clones were identified from the library. Three genes were foundup-regulated in the L3 stage, out of which WbL31 (cuticular collagen) was found to be useful in detecting L3 larvae of W. bancrofti in the vector by RT-PCR assay with high specificity and sensitivity (98-100%). Marks first report on the development of an infective stage-specific RTPCR assay (WbL31 RT-PCR assay) to detect L3 stage W. bancrofti in the vector. This assay will have potential application in assessing the transmission of infection and hence in decision-making related to elimination programme.
5 illus, 1 table, 35 ref
Thingom P;Chhetry G K N
006344 Thingom P;Chhetry G K N (Life Sciences Dep, Manipur University, Canchipur-795 003, Email: premarani_thingom@yahoomail.com) : Microbiota associated with natural fermentation of hawaijar (an indigenous fermented soybean product) of Manipur and their enzymatic activity. J Fd Sci Technol 2008, 45(6), 516-19.
Diversity of Bacillus isolates from hawaijar an indigenously fermented soybean was studied. Twenty six samples from 5 Districts of Imphal valley were collected. The isolated microorganisms were grouped based on colony and cell morphology. A total of 152 strains of Bacillus was isolated. Representative isolates from each group were further studied using PCR-RAPD profile. Very huge genetic diversity was noticed between groups. In between the isolates of a group, a less genetic diversity was observed. Molecular identification of the representative strains from each group using 16S- 23S rDNA spacer region followed by restriction in digestion resulted in Bacillus subtilis, B. cereus and Bacillus sp. (comparable with MTCC type strains). The isolates were also screened for their enzymatic activities (amylase, protease, and lipase). Bacillus strains showed strong amylase and relatively weak protease and lipase activities.
4 illus, 2 tables, 18 ref
Syed M A;Sim H K;Khalid A;Shukor M Y
006343 Syed M A;Sim H K;Khalid A;Shukor M Y (Biochemistry Dep, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecualr Sciences, University of Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia) : Simple method to screen for azo-dye-degrading bacteria. J envir Biol 2009, 30(1), 89-92.
Stab-culture method was adapted to screen for azo dyes-decolorizing bacteria from soil and water samples. Decolorized azo dye in the lower portion of the solid media indicates the presence of anaerobic azo dyes-decolorizing bacteria, while aerobic decolorizing bacteria decolorizes the surface portion of the solid media. Of twenty soil samples tested, one soil sample shows positive results for the decolourisation of two azo dyes; Biebrich scarlet (BS) and Direct blue 71 (DB) under anaerobic conditions. A gram negative and oxidase negative bacterial isolate was found to be the principal azo dyes degrader. The isolate was identified by using the BiologTM identification system as Serratia marcescens.
1 illus, 1 table, 28 ref
Swarnkar C P;Singh D;Khan F A;Kumar M;Bhagwan P S K;Dubey S C
006342 Swarnkar C P;Singh D;Khan F A;Kumar M;Bhagwan P S K;Dubey S C (Animal Health Div, Central Sheep and Wool Research Institute, Avikanagar-304 501) : In vitro ovicidal and harvicidal activity of Butea frondosa (Palas) seeds extract on Haemonchus contortus. J Vet Parasitol 2008, 22(1), 45-8.
Seeds of Butea frondosa were collected and subjected to extraction using both organic and inorganic solvents. The extracts were evaluated for anthelmintic property against exogenous stages of Haemonchus contortus. All the four extracts of B. frondosa seed were found to have significant effect (p < 0.05) on egg hatching at the concentration of 1.25 mg ml-1. The corrected mean hatching in H. contortus eggs ranged from 0.86±0.49 (alcoholic extract) to 3.56±0.99% (ether extract). Contrary to the effect on egg hatching, at the similar concentration, the extracts of B. frondosa failed to reveal any appreciable effect on egg embryonation. On larval mortality assay, aqueous extract @ 20.0 mg ml-1) caused 90.73% mortality in infective larvae of H. contortus at 72 hours post-incubation while other extracts exhibited low to moderate larvicidal activity.
4 tables, 11 ref
Swarnkar C P;Singh D;Khan F A;Bhagwan P S K
006341 Swarnkar C P;Singh D;Khan F A;Bhagwan P S K (Animal Health Div, Central Sheep and Wool Research Institute, Avikanagar-304 501) : Potential of alcoholic extract of Azadirachta indica bark as anthelmintic in sheep. J Vet Parasitol 2008, 22(2), 13-16.
Alcoholic extract from Azadirachta indica bark was evaluated in vitro for anthelmintic activity against pre-parasitic and parasitic stages of Haemonchus contortus. No anthelmintic activity was noticed against exogenous stages of H. contortus on in vitro assays. However, oral administration of alcoholic extract of A. indica bark (@ 50 mg kg-1 body weight) was found to cause gradual reduction (2.4-48.2%) in faecal egg count in sheep experimentally infected with H. contortus. The corrected faecal egg count reductions on day 7 and 10 post treatment were 44.1 and 56.9%, respectively, indicating presence of moderate level of anthelmintic property in the extract.
1 illus, 2 tables, 14 ref
Sukari M A;Rashid N Y;Tang S W;Rahmani M; Lajis N H;Khalid K;Yusuf U K
006340 Sukari M A;Rashid N Y;Tang S W;Rahmani M; Lajis N H;Khalid K;Yusuf U K (Chemistry Dep, Faculty of Science Univ, Putra Malaysia,43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor (Malaysia)) : Chemical constituents and bioactivity of Curcuma xanthorrhiza Roxb.. Ultra Scient phys Sci 2008, 20(3), 605-10.
Curcuma xanthorrhiza, a well-known traditional medicinal plant used in Malaysia and Indonesia, is commonly known with the local name 'temu lawak' or 'temu raya'. Phytochemical studies on Curcuma xanthorrhiza have afforded five compounds, namely a-curcumene (1), germacrone (2), zedorone (3), xanthorrhizol (4) and curcumin (5). The structures of these compounds were established using spectroscopic techniques. The cytotoxicity and antimicrobial tests were carried out on the crude extracts of Curcuma xanthorrhiza as well as isolated pure compounds. Ethyl acetate and methanol extracts showed very strong cytotoxic activity against T-Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia cells (CEM-SS) with IC50 values of 2.8 and 3.7 μg/mL, respectively. All the extracts of Curcuma xanthorrhiza also exhibited strong and moderate activity against all the bacteria tested, while isolated compound curcumin showed moderate activity against Staphylococcus aureus.
1 table, 9 ref
Shukor M Y;Husin W S M;Rahman M F A;Shamaan N A;Syed M A
006339 Shukor M Y;Husin W S M;Rahman M F A;Shamaan N A;Syed M A (Biochemistry Dep, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University Putra Malaysia, UPM 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia) : Isolation and chracterization of an SDS-degrading Klebsiella oxytoca. J envir Biol 2009, 30(1), 129-34.
Sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) is one of the main components in the detergent and cosmetic industries. Its bioremediation by suitable microorganism has begun to receive greater attention as the amount of SDS usage increases to a point where treatment plants would not be able to cope with the increasing amount of SDS in wastewater. The purpose of the study was to isolate local SDS-degrading bacteria. Screening was carried out by the conventional enrichment-culture technique. Six SDS-degrading bacteria were isolated. Of these isolates, isolate S14 showed the highest degradation of SDS with 90% degradation after three days of incubation. Isolate S14 was tentatively identified as Klebsiella oxytoca strain DRY14 based on carbon utilization profiles using Biolog GN plates and partial 16S rDNA molecular phylogeny. SDS degradation by the bacterium was optimum at 37°C. Ammonium sulphate; at 2.0 g l-1, was found to be the best nitrogen source for the growth of strain DRY14. Maximum growth on SDS was observed at pH 7.25. The strain exhibited optimum growth at SDS concentration of 2.0 g l-1 and was completely inhibited at 10 g l-1 SDS. At the tolerable initial concentration of 2.0 g l-1, almost 80% of 2.0 g l-1 SDS was degraded after 4 days of incubation concomitant with increase in cellular growth. The Km(app) and Vmax(app) values calculated for the alkylsulfatase from this bacterium were 0.1 mM SDS and 1.07 æmolmin-1 mg-1 protein, respectively.
7 illus, 37 ref
Shrivastava S M;Saurabh S;Rai D;Chaudhary M
006338 Shrivastava S M;Saurabh S;Rai D;Chaudhary M (Venus Medicine Research Centre, Hill Top, Industrial Estate, Bhatoli kalan, Baddi (H.P.)) : Microbial susceptibility of immunox-V in comparison with ceftriaxone and vancomycin. Life Sci Bull 2008, 5(2), 111-15.
This study is carried out to evaluate in vitro susceptibility of Immunox-V, the fixed dose combination of Ceftriaxone and Vancomycin in comparison with Ceftriaxone and Vancomycin alone in Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Enterobacter cloacae and Klebsiella pneumoniae. MIC and time kill curve analysis were carried out. MIC of Immunox-V was found to be lower in all cases than Ceftriaxone or Vancomycin alone. Immunox-V acts synergistically and has a broad spectrum in vitro activity that encompasses a wide range of gram positive and gram negative bacteria. Time kill curve also demonstrated that Immunox-V has better bactericidal activity than Ceftriaxone and Vancomycin individually.
4 illus, 1 table, 16 ref
Sharma C S;Sharma J K;Bedi J S
006337 Sharma C S;Sharma J K;Bedi J S (Veterinay Public Health Dep, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences Univ, Ludhiana-141 004, Email: cs_sharma_iway@sify.com) : Detection methods for shiga-like toxin producing Escherichia coli O157:H7 from foods of animal origin. J Fd Sci Technol 2008, 45(4), 287-94.
Escherichia coli O157:H7 has emerged as one of the important contemporary human food borne pathogen capable of inflicting various disease symptoms in man. Main reservoir of this pathogen in nature is cattle and the food products made from them such as milk, meat and their products. It causes colitis and bloody diarrhea by producing a toxin called Shiga toxin, which damages the intestines. The approach for the diagnosis of this infection generally depends upon the usage of biochemical characteristics, nucleic acid based techniques like DNA probes, PCR and immunoblotting with antibodies to verotoxin. Discusses in detail various methods, which are available for the detection of this deadliest pathogen from animal foodstuffs including the conventional microbiological and newer molecular approaches.
3 tables, 87 ref
Shahardar R A;Rao J R;Mishra A K
006336 Shahardar R A;Rao J R;Mishra A K (Faculty of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, SKUAST-K, Shuhama Alusteng, Post Box No. 135 GPO Srinagar, Sringar-190 006) : Defection of antibodies against Trypanosoma evansi in dromedary camels by ELISA using purified antigens. J Vet Parasitol 2008, 22(2), 47-51.
Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for detection of antibodies against Trypanosoma evansi in dromedary camel was standardized using three types of purified antigens viz., GFAE1 (gel filtration anion - exchange fraction I), GFAE
2 illus, 22 ref
Sengupta P P;Basu A
006335 Sengupta P P;Basu A (NO, Project Directorate on Animal Disease Monitoring and Surveillance (ICA, Hebbal, Bangalore-560 024, Email: pinakiprasad_s@rediffmail.com) : Haematological changes and clinical manifestations in the experimental caprine sarcoptic mange. J Vet Parasitol 2008, 22(2), 65-8.
Haematological changes and clinical manifestations were studied in experimental caprine sarcoptic mange infestations in Black Bengal goats. The experiment was carried out in humid and moderate temperature conditions. The study was carried out up to day 80 post-infection (p.i.) There were itching, alopecia, arrest of hair growth, thickening and wrinkling of the affected skin. However, after day 70 p.i., further spread of the condition was arrested though there was presence of mites in skin scraping test. There was a significant reduction in haemoglobin (Hb) concentration where significant increase was observed in total leucocytic count (TLC) and eosinophilic count.
1 table, 8 ref
Saviour P;Padakannaya P;Nishanimutt S; Ramachandra N B
006334 Saviour P;Padakannaya P;Nishanimutt S; Ramachandra N B (Human Genetics Laboratory, Studien in Zoology Dep, Mysore Univ, Manasagangotri-570 006, Email: nallurbr@gmail.com) : Familial patterns and biological markers of dyslexia. Int J Hum Genet 2009, 9(1), 21-9.
Dyslexia is one of the most common learning disability. Though dyslexia is a major educational problem, studies on biological aspects of dyslexia are very limited in India. Here we report prevalence, inheritance patterns and biological markers of dyslexia in 179 selected families from South India. Families were ascertained through probands attending special schools for dyslexic students as well as from regular schools from Karnataka state, South India. Prevalence and types of inheritance patterns were recorded. A questionnaire concerning allergies, asthma, arthritis, migraine etc. was used to assess the prevalence of immune disorders. Occurrence of chicken pox, measles, mumps, delayed milestones, birth complications, motor coordination problems, short sight and left handedness, fatty acid deficiency signs were recorded in the dyslexic probands. Among school children, prevalence of dyslexia is found to be 9.87% and in the selected families the prevalence is 28.32%. Based on the affectedness, dyslexia phenotypes were classified as severe and mild deficits. Mild deficits were better compensated than the severe deficits. Among the selected families autosomal dominant mode of inheritance was found to be more prevalent. Consanguinity plays a major role in familial aggregation of dyslexia. Allergy, migraine, delayed milestones, low level of blood cholesterol and certain fatty acid deficiency signs were found to be associated with dyslexia. Since complex array of symptoms are associated with dyslexia an integrated research approach is needed for effective diagnosis and remediation of dyslexia.
39 ref
Sarathambal C;Thangaraju M;Gomathy M
006333 Sarathambal C;Thangaraju M;Gomathy M (Agricultural Microbilogy Dep, Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Coimbatore-641 003) : Zinc solubilzation by the bacterium Gluconacetobacter diazotrophicus. J Ecobiol 2008, 23(4), 315-19.
Zinc solubilizing property of Gluconacetobacter diazotrophicus cultures was assessed under in vitro conditions. The solubilizations of zinc compounds viz., zinc oxide, zinc carbonate and zinc phosphate by G. diazotrophicus (Strain PAL5) was assayed in LGI broth medium. Available Zn was in an increasing trend throughout the experiment. On 10th day of incubation, availability of zinc was recorded as 460, 420 and 450 mg g-1 zinc in zinc oxide, zinc carbonate and zinc phosphate treatments, respectively. In plate assay, the type strain PAL5 was found to be effective in solubilizing the insoluble zinc compounds viz., zinc oxide, zinc carbonate and zinc phosphate. The insoluble Zn compounds were effectively solubilized at 0.1 % concentration, compared to 0.2% concentration.
2 tables, 10 ref