002193   Nicky Singh;Samajpati N;Paul A K (Botany Dep, Calcutta Univ, Kolkata-700 019) : Screening of salt tolerant rhizobial isolates associated with Vigna radiata cultivated in saline soils of West Bengal. J mycopathol Res 2008, 46(2), 239-43.

Studies fifty one rhizobial strains were isolated from effective root nodules of 5 different cultivars of Vigna radiata growing in saline areas of South 24-Parganas, North 24-Parganas and Medinipur districts of West Bengal. Morphological, cultural and biochemical characteristics of these isolates revealed that they belong to Bradyrhizobium group of legume symbionts. Nearly some 10 % of the isolates tolerated 2 % (w/v) NaCl in the growth medium and four of them were resistant to 400 μg/ml of streptomycin. Infectivity of these resistant isolates (74.2-75.2 %) was comparable to that of the wild type (74 %) while, the survival and recovery of cells were quite high (60 %) at an initial density of 50x 10^{7 cells/g of sterile soil. Seed inoculation using these selected rhizobial isolates could be an effective tool in increasing the growth and yield of Vigna radiata under salt stressed condition.}

5 tables, 17 ref

002192   Mukhopadhyay R P (Botany Dep, Tufanganj Mahavidyalaya, Tufanganj Newtown, Coochbehar-736 160) : Keratinolytic actinomycete. J mycopathol Res 2008, 46(1), 85-8.

An actinomycete was isolated in this laboratory from the soil samples collected from various waste protein dumped areas of West Bengal. The actinomycete (TMA-13) degraded human hair, chicken feather, and wheat bran and produced 7.4, 7.6 and 6.0 specific activity of protease respectively after 12 day incubation at 28°C. Using chicken feather as substrate, the inducible keratinolytic protease was isolated, purified and characterised. After DEAE-cellulose column chromatography the enzyme activity was increased by 8.7 fold. The molecular weight of the enzyme was 50,000 dalton. In presence of 5 mM Ca^{2+ the activity of the keratinolytic protease was incresed by 43 %. EDTA completely inhibited the enzyme activity. The partly purified enzyme hydrolysed whole chicken feather completely at 37°C. The actinomycete was later identified as Streptomyces sp. (TMA-13). When solid state fermentation was carried out, more than 4 fold production of the enzyme was noted.}

3 illus, 3 tables, 15 ref

002191   Moi M;Bhattacharyya P (Plant Pathology Dep, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal) : Influence of biocontrol agents on sesame root root rot. J mycopathol Res 2008, 46(1), 97-100.

Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi) Gold, a soil borne plant pathogen has a wide host range causing root rot, seedling blight, collar rot, stem rot of various crops. Here attempts had been made to control root rot of sesame caused by M. phaseolina by suppressive organisms following in vitro and in vivo studies. Five isolates of Bacillus subtilis namely BS-12, BS-14, BS-17, BK-1, BM-1, Pseudomonas fluorescens and Trichoderma harzianum were taken as antagonists in the studies. In vitro studies revealed that, in case of dual culture technique, highest mycelial inhibition was recorded in BS-17 (up to 65.56 %). Under in vivo studies M. phaseolina was grown in sand maize meal medium and inoculated in the pots @ 200 g/pot. The symptom of root rot disease appeared within 10 days of sowing and continued up to 30 days. In vivo studies revealed that all the antagonists reduced the root rot of sesame significantly, when applied as soil drenching or in combination of seed soaking and soil drenching. Combination of seed soaking and soil drenching gave better results than the soil drenching alone. Here among the antagonists maximum disease control was observed by the T. harzianum which gave up to 66.17 % of sesame root rot disease control followed by isolate BS-12 (up to 65.27 %) and BS.17 (up to 65.25 %).

6 tables, 5 ref

002190   Manish Kumar;Singh P K;Vajpeyi A P (Zoology Dep, School of Life Sciences, Agra-282 002, Email: manishzoology06@yahoo.com) : Beneficial effect of Amomum cardamomum on renal function in alloxan induced diabetic rats. Ecotech 2009, 1(1), 47-9.

The work was undertaken to investigation, the effect of ethanolic seed extract of Amomum cardamomum on blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, and uric acid in alloxan induced diabetic rats. Ethanolic fruit pulp extract of Amomum cardamomum was administered orally (50 mg/kg body weight) for 7,15,30,45 and 60 days. Treatment with Amomum cardamomum resulted in significant reduction of serum urea (p<0.001), creatinine (p<0.001) and uric acid (p<0.001); while increment in serum total protein (p<0.001) and comparable with that of alloxan induced diabetic rats and control groups. The results clearly show, the decreased urea, creatinine, uric acid and improvement in serum protein activity with the treatments have been attributed to improve renal function.

1 table, 11 ref

002189   Maiti P K;Bose S;Sarkar S (Microbiology Dep, Institute of Graduate Medical Education & Research, Kolkata-700 020) : Evaluation of an in-house developed anaerobic culture medium from lentil. J mycopathol Res 2008, 46(2), 255-8.

As lentil contains considerable amount of nutrients and reducing substances like meat, the vmeat balls used in anaerobic medium like cooked meat broth(CMB) can be replaced by this easily preservable plulse grains. With this aim, an in-house develped medium containing 10% Indian red lentil suspension with methylene blue and its soft agar version adding 0.2% agar were evaluated. A 10^{5 bacilli/ml, saline suspension of (Clostridium sporogenes,ATCC11437, was prepared and 20 μl of the suspensions were simultaneously inoculated into 5 tubes of CMB and 5 each of test liquid media prepared from 5 different lots of lentil. After 48 hrs. incubation at 37°C, the bacterial growths in different tubes were compared by counting stained smears prepared by spreading 20 jxl of broths from each tube on 1 cm2 area of slide. The bacterial numbers were about 4.5 times more in test media than in CMB. Ten twin swabs taken from the sites of isolation of Cl. tetani from OT floors are simultaneously grown in lentil methylene blue soft agar media and CMB. Growths were indicatred in test medium by reduction of dye from bottom within 24 hrs., much earlier than blackening of meat colur in CMB. So the innovative media can be tested for rapid detection of various anaerobes.}

1 illus, 1 table, 9 ref

002188   Maiti P K;Bose M;Ganguly S;Ghosh S;Manna A (Microbiology Dep, Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education and Research, Kolkata-700 020) : Coconut bases in-house developed medium for fungal growth. J mycopathol Res 2008, 46(2), 275-7.

Evaluates the suitability of agar based solid medium prepared with coconut water for growth of fungi. As coconut milk contains various fatty acids, lipo-philic fungus will also be tested in its solid version. Reference strains of A. flavus, and A. niger, along with their clinical isolates and also clinical isolates of T. rubrum, H.capsulatum, N. brasiliensis were grown into in-house prepared coconut agar medium and SDA medium. Using standard inoculum quantitative estimations were done for growth of reference strain of C. albicans in both media. Clinical isolates of Malassezia furfur and scraping materials of Pityriasis versicolor cases were inoculated into coconut milk agar along with conventional method of culture. Growths were compared. The growths in coconut water agar were almost similar with growths in SDA for all tested fungi. M. furfur grew well in coconut milk agar without oil overlay. Coconut based solid media can be cheap alternative of SDA. Coconut milk agar can be good subsitute for Dixon's agar for growth of M. furfur.

1 illus, 1 table, 5 ref

002187   Mahalakshmi P;Deboral Vimala D;Krishnan M; Ravishankar T (NO, Central Institute of Brackishwater Aquaculture, (I.C.A.R), 75, R.A. Puram, Chennai-600 028) : Needs assessment of ICT users for implementation of aquacultural development projects in coastal areas. Fish Technol 2009, 46(1), 73-8.

Information and training needs assessment of users of Village Resource Centre (VRC) and Village Knowledge Centres (VKCs) of Thangatchimadam, Ramanathapuram district, Tamil Nadu was conducted. The opinions of 103 users of VKCs on information and training needs dimensions such as culture practices, e-Learning module, extension activities, fisheries and allied information and base information have been investigated by means of a survey questionnaire. The need for culture practices in lobsters, information on soil and water management in shrimp culture in the form of e-Learning module, training and marketing information in value added products, preparation of quality and hygienic dry fish, addresses of various fisheries and aquaculture departments and universities, and information on subsidies for fishermen, aqua farmers and women were the information sought by the VKCs for adoption of aquaculture in coastal areas. Rank order correlation coefficients were worked out to compare the information and training needs among the users of various VKCs. The results indicated that almost similar ranks were assigned to various information and training needs by VKCs users.

3 tables, 5 ref

002186   Lairenlakpam S;Chhetry G K N (Life Sciences Dep, Manipur Univ, Canchipur-795 003) : Microbial and biochemical compositions of traditional fermented vegetable food (Gundruk and Sinki) and their fermentation procedure. J mycopathol Res 2008, 46(1), 89-92.

Traditional and indigenous method of Gundruk and Sinki preparation is elaborated. Assessment of microbes on mustard leaves and radish and their respective fermented products called Gundruk and Sinki revealed the presence of 16 microbes including yeast and bacteria. Variations of microbes with respect to seasons, leaf maturity, storage periods, etc. of Gundruk and Sinki and their respective raw materials ; mustard leaves and radish were observed. Microbial population of fermented Gundruk and Sinki and unfermented vegetables i.e. mustard leaves and radish was significantly different. Trichosporan asahii, Bacillus pantothenticus and Bacillus pumilus were invariably found associated with fermented Gundruk and Sinki and also with non-fermented mustard leaves and radish. However, composition and number of microbes varied between the two products. Also, significant differences in biochemical compositions between fermented Gundruk and Sinki and non-fermented mustard leaves and radish were observed. Alterations in biochemical constituents of both Gundruk and Sinki when compared to its non-fermented raw metarials were attributed to the role of microbes.

3 tables, 5 ref

002185   Kamra D;Sachar R K;Soni R K;Singh G P I (Community Medicine Dep, Christian Medical College, Ludhiana, Email: deepshikhakamra@gmail.com) : Epidemiological correlates of health status and quality of life of elderly women in a rural area of Punjab, India. Indian J maternal child Hlth 2009, 11, (NULL).

The epidemiological correlates of health status and quality of life of elderly women in a rural area of Punjab. The study included women from 10 villages from field practice area of Rural Health and Training Center (RHTC) located at village Pohir. This center is an integral part of Department of Community Medicine, Dayanand Medical College and Hospital, Ludhiana. A convenience sample of 10% was taken for the present study. Hence 108 subjects out of total elderly women were included in the study. Their health status and quality of life was appraised using a pre tested performa. Statistical analysis was done using simple percentages. In general health status and quality of life of women was dismal with 79.7% being illiterate, 51.9% depressed, 50% widows, 20.4% and 13.9% overweight and obese respectively. Only 6.5% had good mental status. Overall 71.3% and 19.5% had good and fair quality of life respectively with only 0.9% having poor quality of life.

002184   Jadhav B L;Jamkhedkar S (Life Sciences, Mumbai Univ, Vidyanagari Campus, Santacruz (East), Mumbai-400 098, Email: drbljadhav@hotmail.com) : Phylogenetic analysis of Lamellidens corrianus obtained from konkan region of Maharashtra by 28s rRNA and 18s rRNA sequences. Res J Biotechnol 2009, 4(1), 37-44.

The freshwater pearl producing bivalve Lamellidens corrianus was collected from the various parts of Konkan region of Maharashtra and the phylogenetic studies were carried out using 28s rRNA and 18s rRNA gene sequences. The 28s rRNA gene sequence exhibited 99.2% similarity with freshwater bivalves. The 18s rRNA sequence when aligned with homologus region of Pinctada albina showed 88% - 89% similarity indicating phylogenetic nearness to marine pearl producing bivalve. The dendrogram genetrated by Clustal W for both 28 s rRNA and 18s rRNA indicated these populations are sub species of L. corrianus. The accession numbers of the sequences submitted to NCBI GenBank are EU394233, EU394234, EU394235, EU394236, EU394237 and EU394238.

12 illus, 2 tables, 14 ref

002183   Goyal P;Sachar R K;Soni R K (Community Medicine Dep, G.S.V.M. Medical College, Kanpur, Email: poojagajinder@yahoo.co.in) : Prevalence of obesity in ethnic punjabi women. Indian J maternal child Hlth 2009, 11, (NULL).

Estimates prevalence of obesity in ethnic Punjabi women. Settings: The study was conducted in the field practice areas of rural and urban centers of the department of Community Medicine DMC&H, Ludhiana. Study.desigcu Community based and cross-sectional study was conducted among 541 ethnic Punjabi adults above the age of 20 years Among them, 334 were from urban area and 207 were from rural area. Systematic random sampling was used for the selection of subjects and those who had completed 20 years of age were included for the study. Body mass index (BMI) calculated as weight (kgs)/height (m)^{2 was used for classification of generalized obesity and waist hip ratio(WHR) was used for detection of central obesity. Present study shows that the prevalence of overweight and obesity in ethnic Punjabi women is 47.8%and 15.1%and it is slightly higher than the males (41.4%, 14.5%). Also prevalence of central obesity among Punjabi females (64.4%) is significantly higher in females than males (17.1%).}

002182   Gopinandhan T N;Kannan G S;Jayarama (Faculty of Agriculture & Animal Husbandry, Gandhigram Rural Univ, Gandhigram-624 302, Email: revathi123@yahoo.com) : Toxigenic potential of Aspergillus species from cofee. J mycopathol Res 2008, 46(2), 227-32.

Ochratoxin A (OTA) is a nephrotoxic mycotoxin produced in coffee by three specis of Aspergillus viz, Aspergillus carbonarius, A, niger and A, ochraceus. In the study, the ochratoxigenic potential of various Aspergillus species isolated from coffee bean were evaluated in yeast extract sucrose (YES) and coffee meal extract agar (CMEA) medium using HPLC technique. Of the 255 isolates obtained, the most common Aspergillus species found was A. niger (219 isolates) followed by A. ochraceus (36 isolates) of which 31% and 83% of A. niger and A. ochraceus isolates capable of producing OTA respectively. The OTA production by the A. ochraceus isolates was in the range of 1.9 to 122 μg kg^{-1 and 0.75 to 42.4 μg kg-1 in YES and CMEA media respectively. While, the A. niger isolates could produce OTA in the range of 0.8 to 12 μg kg-1 and 0.5 to 6.15 μg kg-1 in YES and CMEA media respectively. A close examination the data revealed that a higher percentage of mould infection and also high incidence of ochratoxigenic moulds was observed in robusta samples (27 A. ochraceus and 159 A. niger isolates) compared to arabica (9 A, ochraceus and 60 A. niger 60 isolates) indicating robusta type was more susceptible to mycotoxigenic mould infection than arabica type.}

002181   Gbolade A A;Ekor M N;Akinlolu A A;Ayoola M D (Pharmacognosy Dep, Faculty of Pharmacy, Olabisi Onabanjo Univ, Sagamu Campus, Ogun State, Nigeria, Email: adegbolade@yahoo.com) : Antidiabetic activity of ethanolic extracts of Spondias mombin stem bark on alloxan0induced diabetic rats. J pharm Res 2008, 7(3), 192-5.

Antidiabetic effects of ethanolic extract of the stem bark of Spondias mombln L. (Anacardiaceae) was Evaluated in an alloxan model of diabetes mellitus in rats. Rats with fasting blood glucose level (FBG) abovel 50mg/dl, 18h after alloxanisation, were treated with 100-250 mg/kg b. w. doses of the bark extract. Periodic determination of the FBG up to 24h in an acute study showed delayed onset, but weak hypoglycaemic effect at 24h which was less than that of the standard drug, chlorpropamide. Administration of extract at the maintenance dose of 150mg/kg in a prolonged study revealed sustained and significant increase (P< 0.05) in hypoglycaemic activity up to day 7, and this surpassed that of chlorpropamide. The FBG was reduced to a value close to pre-induction value of the untreated normoglycaemic animals and there was restoration of cellular population of the pancreatic beta cells in alloxanised diabetic rats treated with bark extract. The extract did not produce marked changes in body weight of experimental animals throughout the study. The results of this study clearly indicated that S. mombln stem bark is a potential source of orally active antidiabetic agents.

3 illus, 3 tables, 13 ref

002180   Galhena P;Thabrew I;Tammitiyagodage M G;Hanna rachel V A (Biochemistry and Clinical Chemistry Dep, Faculty of Medicine, Univesity of Kelaniya, Talagolla Road, Ragama, Sri Lanka, Email: prasa77nna@yahoo.com) : Anti-hepatocarcinogenic ayurvedic herbal remedy reduces the extent of diethylnitrosamine-induced oxidative stress in rats. Pharmacog Mag 2009, 5(17), 19-27.

The present in-vivo investigation with Wistar rats was conducted to determine whether the treatment with above decoction (6g / kg / day) for a period of 10 weeks can provide protection against DEN (200 mg / kg by a single i.p. injection) mediated changes in (a) lipid peroxidation, (b) glutathione (GSH) concentration, (c) activities of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GP%), and (d) activity of the phase II detoxification enzyme glutathione S-transferase (GST). DEN administration resulted in a significant (p<0.05) enhancement (+ 46.2%) of lipid peroxidation (as assessed by formation of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, TBARS), accompanied by a decreased GSH concentration (- 21.7% in liver; - 5.9% in blood), and activities of SOD (- 34.3%), GPx (- 49.1%) and GST (- 19.38%). Administration of the decoction to DEN treated animals resulted in a significant (p<0.05) reduction in TBARS production, along with a restoration towards the normal levels, of the other biochemical parameters evaluated. The overall results obtained suggests that, protection against DEN - mediated changes in oxidative stress and enhancement of the activities of enzymes participating in carcinogen detoxification are possible mechanisms utilized by the decoction to mediate its anti-hepatocarcinogenic action.

3 illus, 2 tables, 41 ref

002179   Gagan S;Sachar R K;Devgun P;Singh G P I;Soni R K (SMO, NPSP, Shahjahanpur, Uttar Pradesh, Email: drgagansharma_77@yahoo.com) : Appraisal of physical, mental and social health of adolescent boys (10-19years) in urban and rural areas of Ludhiana, Punjab. Indian J maternal child Hlth 2009, 11, (NULL).

The health of adolescent boys in urban and rural areas of Ludhiana, has been studied in urban and rural field practice areas of Dayanand Medical College and Hospital, Ludhiana, Punjab. during January 5 -June 2005. Cross sectional. 30 clusters of 7 subjects of boys aged 10-19 years each from urban and rural area. The subjects were visited at home and administered a pre tested pro forma to elicit information on the following: School enrollment rates were very high. The urban subjects were better on most of the parameters.

002178   Dutta G (NO, Nodule Research Laboratory Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur-741 252) : Distribution of fluorescent pseudomonads in different agroclimatic zones of West Bengal. J mycopathol Res 2008, 46(2), 285-6.

A survey was conducted to enumerate the population of fluorescent pseudomonads in different agroclimatic zones of West Bengal. The populations of fluorescent pseudomonads were found to be highest in alluvial zone in both vegetable and other crops. The lowest population of fluorescent pseudomonads were recorded in terai zone in respective of all plants. In case of pulses the occurrence of fluorescent pseudomonads are arranged in an ascending order in different zones in respect of their availability., terai < saline < laterite < hill < alluvial.

1 table, 5 ref

002177   Dey Sarkar P;Rautaray S S (Biochemistry Dep, M.G.M. Medical College, Indore-494 001, Email: sushree_rautaray@yahoo.com) : Oxidized LDL and paraoxanase status in ischemic stroke patients. Indian J Physiol Pharmac 2008, 52(4), 403-7.

Stroke is the leading cause of mortality and long term disability among adults in industrialized countries. Oxidative stress is an independent risk actor by inducing production of oxygen free radicals in ischemic stroke. Because a relationship may be associated between ox-ldl and paraoxanase, the aim of this study was to investigate the association between ox-ldl and paraoxanase in ischemic stroke patients by determining whether ox-ldl is a useful marker for monitoring oxidative stress in ischemic stroke patients. Our study included 100 patients of ischemic stroke and 100 controls. Compared with controls ox-ldl was significantly raised in stroke patients and Paraoxanase activity was low. Our findings suggest that there is a significant association between raised plasma ox-ldl and decrease activity of Paraoxanase with age indicating that plasma ox-ldl may reflect oxidative stress in ischemic stroke patients.

3 tables, 18 ref

002176   Darbar S;Garai A;Ghosh B;Chattapadhyay S; Chakraborty M R (Research and Development Div, Dey's Medical Stores (Mfg) Ltd, 62, Bondel Road, Kolkata-700 019, Email: darbar.soumen@gmail.com) : Antilipidemic effect of livina, a polyherbal liquid formulation high fat diet induced obesity in swiss albino mice. J pharm Res 2008, 7(3), 186-91.

The anti-obesity effects of Livina, a polyherbal liquid formulation were investigated in the mice fed with high fat (HF) diet. 40 male Swiss albino mice, divided into 4 groups each consisting of 10 animals (n=10) were used for this study. Group-l mice were fed with normal diet and treated as control. Group-il mice were fed with normal diet + Livina (2ml/day/animal, orally). Group-Ill mice were fed with high fat diet as HF control and Group-IV mice were fed with HF diet along with Livina supplement (2ml/day/animal, orally). All the groups were fed for 28 days with respective diets. The body weight, food consumption, liver weight and weight of the adipose tissues were investigated in mice of all the groups. Administration of Livina reduced body weight, food consumption, liver weight and fat content of HF diet mice. Consumption of high fat diet significantly increased the lipid components i.e. total cholesterol, phospholipids, free fatty acid and triglyceride in serum, Siver and kidney and also serum VLDL & LDL level. Administration of Livina significantly reduced elevated serum and liver lipid profile. Level of HDL is significantly reduced in HF diet group and elevated by Livina supplementation. The histopathological examination of liver tissues of Livina treated hyperlipidemic mice showed comparatively lesser degenerative changes with untreated hyperlipidemic controls. Therefore, our results suggest that Livina, a polyherbal liquid formulation may be useful in the treatment of obesity and related disorders as an anti-obesity agents.

6 illus, 5 tables, 37 ref

002175   Chitra M (P.G. Research Dep. of Biochemistry, STET Women's College, Mannargudi, Tamil Nadu, Email: mschitra21@yahoo.com) : Premna obtusifolia: membrane stabilizing effect. Res J Biotechnol 2009, 4(1), 71-4.

Ethanolic extract of Premna obtusifolia was evaluated for the free radical scavenging and membrane stabilizing properties. The parameters studied were superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione reductase, reduced glutathione, gluta-thione peroxidase, ascorbic acid, Na⁺K⁺ATPase, Mg²⁺ATPase and total ATPase activities. Results of biochemical studies of blood samples of CCl₄ treated animals showed significant increase in the above levels of marker enzymes which reflect liver injury caused by CCl₄ whereas samples from animals treated with ethanol extract of Premna obtusifolia showed significant decrease in the levels of markers indicating the protection of hepatic cells. The results revealed the ethanolic leaf extract followed by the ethanolic root extract of Premna obtusifolia could afford significant free radical scavenging and membrane stabilizing effect against CCl₄ induced hepatocellular injury.

2 tables, 56 ref

002174   Chakravarty A K;Yasmin H (Immunology and Cell Biology Laboratory, Zoology Dep, North Bengal Univ, Siliguri-734 430, Email: prof_ashim_chakravarty@rediffmail.com) : Free redical scavenging and nitric oxide synthase activation in murine lymphocytes and ehlrich ascitic carcinoma cells treated with ethanolic extract of tumeric. Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2008, 78(PtI), 37-44.

Ethanolic turmeric extract (ETE) leads to inhibition and scavenging of strong oxidant, such as superoxide (O₂^-), hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂^-) and hydroxyl radical (OH^-), both in case of lymphocytes as well as tumor cells. At the same time ethanolic turmeric extract was found to stimulate the lymphocytes to increase nitric oxide (NO) production probably for mounting cytotoxic response towards tumor cells by activating the L- arginine derived nitric oxide synthase (NOS) pathway. Increase in the nitric oxide in tumor cells seems to set apoptosis in the cells which was further confirmed by scanning electron microscopy and light microscopy where the tumor cells showed cytoplasmic blebbing and multiple apoptotic body formation upon turmeric treatment. Whereas, the lymphocytes with turmeric treatment seemed to be quite healthy under SEM.

6 illus, 49 ref

002173   Bhattacharyya S;Khanduja K L (Biophysics Dep, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, Email: shalmoli2007@yahoo.co.in) : Bioinformatics in biology. Bull med Edu Res 2008, 42(3), 115-18.

In the present age, a major research goal is to find the function of genes and proteins and to define their interactions in an organism. In the laboratory, genetic manipulation or model organisms, microarrays for measuring gene expression and proteomics for analysis of proteins are used for collecting new biological data. The results of these experiments need to be organized in a suitable database format. Computer programs need to be developed to access the information and analyse the data. All these fall under the preview of bioinformatics. Bioinformatics include mapping and analyzing DNA and protein sequences, aligning different DNA and protein sequences to compare them and creating and viewing 3-D models of protein structures. Bioinfonnatics involve the development and implementation of tools that enable efficient access, use and management of various types of information. It creates new algorithms (mathematical formulas) and statstics with which to assess relationship among members of large data sets, such as methods to locate a gene within a sequence, predict protein structure and/or function, and cluster protein sequences into families of related sequences. Provides a brief historical account of bioinformatics, it describes how bioinformatics has evolved into a new field of scientific investigation. It also describes the role of biological and computational research in this field.

1 illus, 9 ref

002172   Bhargava E K;Khaliq F (Physiology Dep, Univ College of Medical Sciences and Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital, Dilshad Garden, Shahadara, Delhi-110 095, Email: farahphysio@yahoo.com) : Effect of paternal smoking on the pulmonary functions of adolescent males. Indian J Physiol Pharmac 2008, 52(4), 413-19.

Study was conducted to evaluate the effect of paternal smoking on the respiratory function of adolescents. The study group comprised thirty healthy males between the ages of 12-18 years whose fathers were smokers (Group 1). They were compared with age and sex matched thirty active smoker males (Group 2). The control group comprised age and sex matched thirty males who were neither active nor passive smokers (Group 3). Pulmonary function was assessed using Sibelmed Datospirl20B spirometer in a closed room. FEV1/FVC ratio and FEF25%-75% (forced expiratory flow at 25%-75% of vital capacity) were significantly lower in the subjects exposed to paternal smoking as compared to non-smokers. Vital capacity & expiratory reserve volume were significantly lower in active smokers as compared to non-smokers. Findings suggest a significant reduction in indices of lung functions of adolescents exposed to paternal smoke.

^ssc1 illus, 2 tables, 29 ref

002171   Basu M;Basu S K;Paul A K (Microbiology Laboratory, Botany Dep, Calcutta Univ, 35 Ballygunge Circular Road, Kolkata-700 019) : Influence of environmental factors on the uptake of chromium by Pseufomonas stutzeri TEM-317 isolated from tannery sludge. J mycopathol Res 2008, 46(2), 289-95.

Pseudomonas stutzeri TEM-317, the Cr-resistant bacterium isolated from tannery effluent could accumulate Cr from aqueous solutions. The process of accumulation of Cr increases with increase in cell age till it reaches the late exponential phase. Accumulation was maximum at 8 h of incubation at 37°C. Irrespective of environmental conditions, the amount of Cr(lll) accumulation was higher than that of Cr(VI). The optimum pH for biosorption of Cr(lll) was 4.5, while that for Cr(VI) was 6.5. Uptake of Cr was proportional to biomass concentration and supplementation of glucose at low concentration enhanced the process. Drying of biomass at 80°C prior to its utilization allowed maximum accumulation of the metal. It is proposed that the organism under optimized condition could serve as an effective tool in reducing the chromium load of polluted environment.

5 illus, 3 tables, 26 ref

002170   Babita Devi M;Irabanta Singh N (Life Sciences Dep, Manipur Univ, Canchipur, Imphal-795 003) : Physiological studies on Auricularia delicata (Fr.) Henn. collected from Manipur. J mycopathol Res 2008, 46(1), 117-19.

The effect of different solid and liquid media, pH of medium, temperature and incubation period was studied on the optimum growth of Auricularia delicata collected from Manipur State. Among the solid media tested, the maximum mycelial growth of A.delicata was recorded in Potato dextrose agar (76.00 mm.) followed by Yeast potato dextrose agar (73.75 mm). In liquid media, potato dextrose medium supported the maximum mycelial growth (49.50 mg) of A.delicata followed by Yeast potato dextrose medium (47.25 mg) respectively. The optimum pH for the maximum mycelial growth (49.75 mg) of A. de/icata was pH 6.5. Decrease in growth was noted as pH changes from 6.5. A.delicata attained their maximum mycelial growth (49.25 mg) at 28°C. The biomass production by the test fungus over a period of 40 days of incubation also exhibited differential response with the maximum mycelial growth (161.75 mg) at 25 days of incubation.

5 tables, 11 ref

002169   Ainooson G K;Woode E;Obiri D D;Koffour G A (Pharmacology Dep, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Science, College of Health Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science & Tec, Kumasi, Ghana, Email: ewoode.pharm@knust.edu.gh) : Antinociceptive effects of Newbouldia laevis (P.Beauv.) stem bark extract in a rat model. Pharmacog Mag 2009, 5(15), 49-54.

Various parts of NewbouLdia Laevis (fam. Bignoniaceae) are used for pain and several inflammatory conditions in Ghana. Study presents the effect of a hydro-alcoholic extract of N. Leavis stem bark in formalin-induced pain a model of neuropathic pain, in rats. Morphine (1-10 mg kg^-1 i.p) and stem bark extract of N. Laevis (10-300 mg kg^-1 p.o.), dose-dependently decreased both phases of the formalin-induced nociceptive behaviour. Nocifensiv response for morphine was four fold higher in the first phase (ED₅₀;1.79 ± 0.63 mg kg^-1) compared to the secor (ED₅₀ ;7.59 ± 2.26); however the response for the extract was similar in both phases (ED₅₀; first phase 28.28±7.02; (ED₅₀; second phase 25.07 ± 5.83). Diclofenac (10-100 mg kg^-1) was effective only in the second phase (ED₅₀ 33.2 ± 5.20). The potency of the drugs was in the order; morphine > extract > diclofenac for the first phase and morphi extract ± diclofenac for the second phase. The results from this study show that N. Laevis extract has central a peripheral analgesic properties and thus adds credence to its traditional uses.

4 illus, 1 table, 35 ref

001415   Vinothapooshan G;Jawahar N;Kalirajan R;Jubie S;Remya K S;Wake P S (NO, J.S.S. College of Pharmacy, Ooty-643 001, Email: jajupharma@yahoo.co.in) : Comparative evaluation of theophylline microsphere prepared using various biodegradable polymers. Int J chem Sci 2008, 6(3), 1526-34.

The investigation was to formulate theophylline loaded microspheres using different grade of chitosan, chitosan - sodium alginate and chitosan-albumin by the following methods such as phase separation emulsification, modified ionotropic gelation and heat stabilization method. The prepared microspheres were evaluated in terms of drug content, incorporation efficiency, micromeritic studies, moisture content and in vitro drug release profile. Chitosan -sodium alginate combination produced microspheres with spherical, smooth surface and frees flowing. It exhibited incorporation efficiency above 75% and size range between 999-994 μm. The drug release from the microspheres follows first order kinetics and the mechanism is Higguchi's diffusion. Theophylline loaded microspheres prepared from Chitosan-sodium alginate combination exhibited good sustained release characteristics and was found suitable for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and nocturnal asthma.

4 illus, 1 table, 12 ref

001414   Vinod Kumar;Basheeruddin Asdaq S M;Asad M (Pharmacology Dep, Krupanidhi College of Pharmacy, # 5, Sarjapur Road, Koramangala, Bangalore-560 034) : Influence of betel quid on effect of calcium channel blockers on isoprenaline induced myocardial necrosis in mice. Indian J expl Biol 2009, 47(9), 730-6.

It is known that chewing Betel quid with tobacco (BQT) or without tobacco (BQ) is a major etiological factor for cardiovascular complications and calcium channel blockers (CCBs) are the major class of drugs prescribed widely for myocardial disturbances. The possible pharmacodynamic interaction between CCBs (verapamil, amlodipine and diltiazem) and BQ/BQT was studied on isoproterenol (ISO)-induced myocardial necrosis in mice. Influence of (CCBs) therapy on pretreated animals at times of myocardial stress were determined by estimating diagnostic marker enzymes such as lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and creatine phosphokinase isoenzyme (CK-MB) in serum and heart tissue homogenate (HTH). Administration of CCBs to mice pretreated with BQ produced a significant decrease and increase in biomarker enzyme levels in serum and HTH respectively. Further, incorporation of diltiazem and amlodipine in BQT pretreated mice significantly elevated enzyme levels in HTH, whereas, amlodipine administration during BQT treatment showed significant fall in enzyme levels in serum. The results indicated that BQT is cardiotoxic and its effect cannot be reversed using CCBs while BQ is cardioprotective, whose activity was further augmented by amlodipine. Histopathological studies confirmed the biochemical findings.

001413   Vinod Krishan;Uikey J;Saxena R C (Pest Control and Ayurvedic Drug Research Lab., S.S.L. Jain P.G. College, Vidisha-464 001, Email: rcsvds@yahoo.com) : Evaluation of mosquito larvicidal activity of bioactive saponin isolated from Tridex procumbens linn. (Family : Asteraceae) against Aedes aegypti. Int J chem Sci 2008, 6(3), 1504-10.

Many plant based products are widely used for their insecticidal and repellent properties for the control of mosquitoes. Reports an isolation of mosquito larvicidal bioactive saponin from an indigenous plant found in Indian sub continent as a common weed tridex procumbens of Family -Asteraceae. The mosquito larvicidal activity of bioactive saponin isolated from tridex procumbens have been tested against Aedes aegypti Linn. by exposing second and fouth instar larvae to four different concentrations of the compound. Three trials were performed for each concentration along with control and untreated. 24 hours LC50 and LCw values were determined using probit analysis method. The compound gave LC₅₀ value to be 150.79 ppm for fourth instar larvae and 240.10 ppm. for second instar larvae. It was noticed that fourth instar larvae are more susceptible than second instar larvae. The results obtained suggest that the bioactive compound of tridex procumbens could be useful in the search for new larvicidal compound of plant origin.

1 table, 17 ref

001412   Vasudevan K;Manoharan S;Alias L M; Balakrishnan S;Vellaichamy L;Gitanjali M (Biochemistry and Biotechnology Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalainagar-680 002, Email: manshisak@yahoo.com) : Evaluation of chemopreventive efficacy of Cassia fistula in 7, 12-dimethyl benz(a) anthracene (DMBA) induced oral carcinogenesis. Int J chem Sci 2008, 6(3), 1341-54.

Cassia fistula is used in Indian traditional medicine as a remedy for various diseases including tumours. The study has investigated the chemopreventive efficacy of Cassia fistula bark extracts in 7, 12-dimethyl benz(a)anthracene (DMBA) induced hamster buccal pouch carcinogenesis. The mechanistic pathway for its chemopreventive potential was assessed by measuring the status of lipid peroxidation by-products, antioxidants and detoxification enzyme activities in the circulation and tissues of tumour bearing animals. Oral squamous cell carcinoma was developed in buccal pouches of hamsters by painting with 0.5% DMBA, three times a week for 14 weeks. We observed 100% tumour formation in DMBA alone painted animals. Oral administration of Cassia fistula bark extract to DMBA painted animals completely prevented the formation of oral squamous cell carcinoma. The bark extract also restored the status of lipid peroxidation by-products, antioxidants and detoxification enzymes in DMBA painted animals. These results suggest that Cassia fistula bark extract has prominent chemopreventive effect during DMBA induced oral carcinogenesis, which is probably due to the presence of one or more potent anticarcinogenic principles and their synergistic effect. The chemopreventive potential of Cassia fistula may also be due to its antilipid peroxidative, antioxidative and modulation of detoxification agents during DMBA induced oral carcinogenesis.

7 tables, 42 ref

001411   Vadivelan R;Elango K;Satish Kumar M N;Shanish Antony A;Bhadra S;Raghuram A;Suresh B (Pharmacology Dep, J.S.S. College of Pharmacy, Ooty-643n 001, Email: rv_sofia@rediffmail.com) : Biochemical studies on the antiulcerogenic potential of Rubus ellipticus. Int J chem Sci 2008, 6(4), 2182-8.

Antiulcerogenic effect of ethanolic root extract of Rubus ellipticus was studied in HCl/ethanol and aspirin plus pylorus ligation model. The extract reduced ulcer area and ulcer index in HCl/ethanol model and reduced ulcerative lesions, free and total acidity, total proteins but raised total carbohydrates and the pH of gastric juice in aspirin plus pylorus ligation model and hence, possess significant antiulcer activity.

2 tables, 13 ref

001410   Umamaheshwari A;Arunkumar A;Vedhahari B N; Suryaprabha D;Punitha S (Pharmaceutics Dep, Anna Univ, Tiruchirappalli-620 024, Email: aumph12@yahoo.co.in) : Phytochemical evaluation and antinflammatory activity of seed extract of Annona squamosa. Int J chem Sci 2008, 6(3), 1594-9.

The study was aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory properties of seed extracts of Annonai squamosa in rats. The ethanol extract of Annona squamosa was extracted by using Soxhlet extraction apparatus. The preliminary phytochemical studies revealed for the presence of alkaloids, reducing sugar, fixed oil and fats, phenolic compounds and tannins, proteins and amino acids. The anti-inflammatory profile of this extracts was investigated on the basis of paw edema induced by carrageenan. The extract (100 mg/kg) caused a maximum inhibitory activity on compared with standard reference drug indomethacin. The ethanolic seed extract of A. squamosa significantly (p < 0.001) inhibits the inflammation of about 36.33% in paw edema induced by carrageenan and indomethacin (10 mg/kg) inhibits about 35.13%. On the basis of these findings, it may be inferred that A. squamosa exerts anti-inflammatory activity at the second phase of carrageenan inflammation.

1 table, 21 ref

001409   Srivastava R (Botany Dep, Banaras Hindu Univ, Varanasi-221 005, Email: srivastava_252003@yahoo.com) : Impact of leaf chemical quality indices of different tree species on soil microbial biomass and N-availability in a wheat microcosm. Int J chem Sci 2008, 6(4), 2099-21.

Leaves of tropical multipurpose tree species (5 N-fixing, 5 non-N-fixing and combinations of 5 N-fixing species with a non-N-fixing) were incorporated in soil to evaluate effects on soil microbial biomass and N-availability of wheat in a pot experiment under dryland conditions. Soil microbial biomass and N-availability are closely linked to the productivity of an ecosystem. High quality leaves of N-fixing tree species had higher N content, and lower polyphenol (PPL) and lignin (LIG) contents (resulting in lower LIG/N, PPL/N and LIG + PPL/N ratios) than low quality leaves of non-N-fixing species. Combination treatments showed intermediate values of different parameters. Application of high quality leaves caused maximum rise in microbiai biomass C and N and available-N in soil; the increase was minimum with low quality leaves and intermediate with combined treatment. Among N-fixing species, Dalbergia sissoo, Cassia fistula and Prosopis cineraria leaf applications showed greater increase in microbiai biomass C (128-147% over control) and N (174 - 228%). Strong correlations between LIG + PPL/N ratio of leaves with MBC and MBN of wheat suggests that the ratio can be used to screen multipurpose tree species for use as soil amendment.

1 illus, 1 table, 18 ref

001408   Sivakumar T;Kannan K;Manavalan R (Pharmacy Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalai Nagar-608 002, Email: sivat27@rediffmail.com) : Anti-inflammatory activity of Commiphora caudata (Wight and ARN). Int J chem Sci 2008, 6(4), 2150-4.

Ethyl acetate and methanolic extracts of Commiphara caudata syn: Protium caudatum were tested for anti-inflammatory activity in rats by carrageenan induced hind paw oedema method. Both; ethyl acetate extract and methanolic extract of Commiphara caudata (200 mg/kg of body weight) exhibited significant anti-inflammatory activities, when compared with control. Indomethacin was used as a reference anti-inflammatory drug.

1 table, 6 ref

001407   Sinha P K;Parashar P;Dubey A K;Trivedi G N; Tiwary K N (Reprod. physiol. and Biochem. Lan., P.G. Dep of Zoology, V.K.S. Univ, Ara-802 301) : Seasonal variation of total cholesterol in seminal plasma of different mammalian species. Modern J Life Sci 2007, 6-7(1-2), 79-82.

Seasonal variation in the total cholesterol level of seminal plasma In different mammalian species showed a species specific variation in the form of increasing and decreasing pattern. Cow and buffalo bull showed a (P< 0.001) increased level in summer to winter and a (P>0.02) decreased level in rainy to winter. During different seasons, the increase and decrease were non-significant in dog and rabbit but in case of men, it showed a(P>0.001) increasd level in both summer and rainy to winter. All such findings might have been an indication of variation in GnRH pulse frequency during different species affecting the level of total cholesterol level.

1 table, 11 ref

001406   Singh V S;Meena Kumari;Satyendra Kumar (Principal, S.N.S. College, Hajipur, Vaishali, Bihar) : New trematode Paradistomoides majumdari from the gall bladder of Hemidactylus flaviviridis from Sitamarhi (Bihar). Modern J Life Sci 2007, 6-7(1-2), 107-10.

Paradistomoides majumdari from the gall bladder of Hemidactylus flaviviridis from Sitamarhi (Bihar) differes from all the known of the genus.

1 illus, 4 ref

001405   Singh M;Singh H S;Bhagat B P (Cytogenetic Lab., PG Dep of Zoology, V.K.S. Univ, Ara) : Comparative studies of some somatoscopic traits in six populations of Bhojpur district, Bihar.. Modern J Life Sci 2007, 6-7(1-2), 67-74.

Six populations of Bhojpur district, three from the forward community and three from the backward community were surveyed for the frequency of two somatoscopic traits namely, widow's peak and occipital hair-whorl. The frequency of widow's peak has been found to be higher in forward community. No such patterns were observed for occipital hair-whorl. Sex has no influence on both the traits.

001404   Singh L;Singh S K;Parashar P;Dubey A K; Trivedi G N (Zoology Dep, S.S. College, Sasaram (Rohtash), Bihar) : Morphometric study of spermatozoal parts of vegetarian and non-vegetarian human subjects of different age groups. Modern J Life Sci 2007, 6-7(1-2), 75-8.

Spermatozoal morphometry of 80 human subjects of age group 16-55 yrs. divided in to four groups (16-25=a; 26-35=b; 36-45=c and 46-55=d) were performed with the help of occulometer and camera lucida in human subjects of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dietary habits. A significant (P>0.05) decrease in tail length of vegetarian subjects of higher age group were observed whereas in non-vegetarian subjects of almost all age groups, the changes in head length, tail length and total length were significantly marked. All such observation might be due to metabolic disturbances during spermatozoal metamorphosis by dietary habits which ultimately caused infertility in men.

1 table, 10 ref

001403   Sharma A;Rehman M B (Bacteriology Lab,, RDVV, Jabalpur-482 001) : (NULL). Indian J expl Biol 2009, 47(9), 766-9.

In vitro experiment was performed by taking petrol pump soils and diesel in flasks with the micronutrients and macronutrients supplements. Cemented bioreactors having sterilized soil and diesel was used for in vivo analysis of diesel hydrocarbon degradation. There were two sets of experiments, first having three bioreactors (1) inoculated by Kl. pneumoniae subsp. aerogenes with soil and diesel; (2) with addition of NH₄NO₃; and (3) served as control. In second set, one bioreactor was inoculated by bacterial consortium containing Moraxella saccharolytica, Alteromonas putrefaciens, Kl. pneumoniae subsp. aerogenes and Pseudomonas fragi along with soil and diesel. The remaining two bioreactors (having NH₄NO₃ and control) were similar to the first set. The experiments were incubated for 30 days. Ability of bacterial inoculum to degrade diesel was analyzed through GC-MS. Smaller chain compounds were obtained after experimental period of 30 days. Rate of diesel degradation was better with the present bacterial consortium than individual bacteria. Present bacterial consortium can be a better choice for faster and complete remediation of contaminated hydrocarbon soils.

001402   Shah H J;Sail S S (Biochemistry Dep, M.B. Patel Science College, Anand) : Thiamin and riboflavin status of rats fed on Phulka supplemented with dietary fat. Prajna 2007, 15, 55-60.

Phulka supplemented with 7 %, 15 % and 30 % fat were fed to weanling rats. Dietary and nutrient intakes were recorded. Observations indicate nearly similar dietary and nutrient intake for protein, thiamin and riboflavin. Intake of dietary fat varied with the groups. Study indicates decrease in thiamin and riboflavin storage in hepatic cell on feeding increased level of dietary fat. Decrease in storage of these two vitamins also influenced the hepatic storage of protein. Total lipid in the liver did not show variation but level of hepatic cholesterol increased with decrease in thiamin and riboflavin storage.

001401   Sendhilvadivu M (Zoology Dep, Auxillium College, Gandhi Nagar, Vellore-632 006) : Impact of in vivo electrical stimulation during denervation dis-use muscle atrophy. Indian J expl Biol 2009, 47(10), 839-42.

Male albino rats were sciatectomized and kept for 30 days to assess the induced oxidative damage due to dis-use gastrocnemius muscle atrophy. An enhanced lipid peroxidation was recorded with elevated activity levels of conjugated diens, malondialdehyde and other thiobarbituric acid reactive substances in denervated muscle. The activity levels of antioxidant defense enzymes, viz. superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathioneperoxidase (selenium, non-selenium), glutathione reductase, glutathione-s-transferase were depleted in the denervated muscle. The denervated muscle was subjected to a programme of in vivo electrical stimulations, revealed a depleted lipid peroxidation and increased activity levels of antioxidant defense enzymes. The results, suggest that the programme of in vivo electrical stimulation could prevent the oxidative damage in gastrocnemius muscle despite denervation.

001400   Sen J (Anthropology Dep, North Bengal Univ, P.O.: N.B.U., Rajarammohunpur, Dist.: Darjeeling-734 013, Email: jaydipsen@rediffmail.com) : Trace elements and their applications in biological anthropology. J Indian Anthrop Soc 2008, 43(1), 83-92.

Elements that are present in minute amounts in the human body are called 'trace elements'. Essential trace elements are responsible for the normal metabolic functioning of the human body, while toxic trace elements possess lethal effects. The determination of the concentrations of these elements in different biomarkers such as hair and blood assume utmost significance in modern day research. This involves the use of very sophisticated methods such as atomic absorption spectrophotometry and inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. Determination of trace element concentrations is a vibrant research field these days and has been utilized by researchers from different disciplines to assess nutritional status and growth, and to understand palaeo-demography and palaeo-pathology. Another important field where trace element analysis is playing a very active role is the documentation of human exposure to toxic elements. Biological anthropologists have traditionally made significant contributions in the fields of nutrition, growth, palaeo-demography and excavated human remains, but have hardly utilized trace elements concentrations for such studies. It has also been stated that biological anthropologists should venture out to assess and document human exposure to toxic elements. However, biological anthropologists both from India and abroad have yet to venture out strongly to conduct significant research in the above-mentioned fields of trace elements.

52 ref

001399   Saravanan D;Nalankilli G (NO, Bannari Amman Institute of Technology, Sathyamangalam) : Enzyme inactivation in textile processing. Man Made Text India 2008, 51(2), 44-7.

Enzymes, a protein is usually reffered to as biocatalyst. Enzyme assisted processes are slowly replacing the conventional textile wet processing treatment. It is essential to understand the inactivation mechanism of various enzymes during the processes and storage of enzymes. Thus, the paper elaborates on the inactivation mechanism of enzymes, their mode of action, factors affecting their reaction and various enzymes activators and inhibitors used.

1 illus, 2 tables, 7 ref

001398   Roychoudhury A;Basu S;Sengupta D N (Botany Dep, Bose Institute, 93/1, Acharya Prafulla Chandra Road, Kolkata-700 009) : Comparative expression of two abscisic acid-inducible genes and proteins in seeds of aromatic indica rice cultivar with that of non-aromatic indica rice cultivars. Indian J expl Biol 2009, 47(10), 827-33.

As an integral part of stress signal transduction, the phytohormone abscisic acid (ABA) regulates important cellular reactions, including up-regulation of stress-associated genes, the products of which are involved directly or indirectly in plant protection. Being accompanied by an increased endogenous ABA level, the matured seeds, embryo and aleurone tissues of cereals accumulate several genes and proteins, associated with desiccation. The present study was aimed at investigating how the contrasting rice genotypes, varying in their salt-stress sensitivity, differ with respect to the expression pattern of two abiotic stress-inducible genes, Rab16A and SamDC, and corresponding proteins, in the seeds, at the background level (dry or water-imbibed state) and ABA-imbibed conditions, which could be related to the varietal differences in tolerance. The rice genotypes selected were M-1-48 (salt-sensitive), Nonabokra (salt-tolerant) and Gobindobhog (aromatic). An extremely low abundance of Rab16A or practically undetectable SamDC transcripts were observed in M-1-48 and Gobindobhog seeds under control conditions, induced only after exogenous ABA treatment, whereas they were expressed at a much higher level even in dry and water-imbibed seeds of Nonabokra, and lesser induced by ABA. The RAB16A (= dehydrin) and SAMDC protein expression in the three varieties were also identical to the gene expression patterns. Thus, the expression was stress-inducible in M-1-48 and Gobindobhog, while constitutive in Nonabokra. Our study reflected the similarity of the molecular responses to exogenous ABA of the seeds of the aromatic rice Gobindobhog to that of the salt-sensitive M-1-48, in exhibiting lower expression of stress-tolerant proteins only after stress. This work also proved that variation in gene/protein expression in seeds could be highly correlated with the variation in the tolerance mechanism of rice varieties.

001397   Rami Reddy V (Emeritus of Anthropology, S.V. Univ, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, Email: vramireddy@hotmail.com) : Status of Ramapithecus in India. Indian Anthrop 2008, 38(2), 83-9.

31 ref

001396   Rajab R;Sajitha Rajan S;Shilpa Satheesh L; Harish S R;Sunukumar S S;Sandeep B S;Kishor Mohan T C;Murugan K (Plant Molecular and Biochemistry Lab, Botany Dep, University College, Thiruvananthapuram-695 034) : Hypersensitive response of Sesamum prostratum Retz. elicitated by Fusarium oxysporum f. sesame (Schelt) Jacz Butler.. Indian J expl Biol 2009, 47(10), 834-8.

Aim of this study was to investigate the intensity and timing of the ROS formation, lipid peroxidation and expression of antioxidant enzymes as initial responses of calli of Sesamum prostratum (SP) against Fusarium oxysporum f. sesame crude toxin metabolite of varying concentrations. 2,4 dichlorophenoxy acetic acid (2,4-D) / coconut milk combinations were found to be more efficient among different hormonal regimes (2,4 -D, 2,4-D/casein hydrosylate and 2,4-D/ coconut milk). The concentration of hydrogen peroxide and lipid peroxidation were higher (13.2 and 5.7-folds, respectively) after 6 h in the treated callus confirmed the oxidative stress. An increase in total phenolics was also detected in inoculated callus. Increased activity of antioxidative enzymes viz., NADPH oxidase and superoxide dismutase (SOD) corroborate with the high level of ROSs, such as O₂^.- and H₂O₂. The poor activity of catalase confirmed the oxidative burst in the callus leading to necrosis. Activity of peroxidase was at par with total phenolics. Similarly, phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL) also showed high activity revealing the active phase in the synthesis of secondary metabolites in the plant. The oxidative burst generated in the interaction between Sesamum and F. oxysporum f. sesame toxin might be the first line of defense by the host mounted against the invading necrotrophic pathogen. The results suggested that the rapid production of reactive oxygen species in the callus in response to fungal toxin had been proposed to orchestrate the establishment of different defensive barriers against the pathogens.

001395   Rabbani S I;Kshama Devi;Khanam S (Pharmacology1and Pharmacognosy Dep, Al-Ameen College of Pharmacy, Opp. Lalbagh Main Gate, Hosur Road, Bangalore-560 027) : Inhibitory effect of Glimepiride on nicotinamide-streptozotocin induced nuclear damages and sperm abnormality in diabetic Wistar rats. Indian J expl Biol 2009, 47(10), 804-10.

The generation of reactive oxygen species in diabetes is considered to be the major cause for the mutation related defects such as cancer, infertility etc. Glimepiride (Gmp) is a third generation antidiabetic sulphonylurea known to possess the antioxidant effect in streptozotocin (STZ) induced diabetes. In this study, the anti-mutagenic activity of Gmp (0.175, 17.5 and 175 mg/kg, po daily for 4 weeks) was evaluated against the nicotinamide (NA-230 mg/kg) and STZ (65 mg/kg) induced somatic and germinal cells defect using bone marrow micronucleus (MN) test and sperm abnormality test respectively in male Wistar rats. Administration of Gmp at 175 mg prevented the NA-STZ induced increased frequency of MN in polychromatic and normochromatic erythrocytes. The treatment with Gmp also decreased the sperm shape abnormality and enhanced the sperm count besides improving the antioxidant status in the diabetic rats. However, the other doses of Gmp (0.175 and 17.5 mg) did not produce significant change in the MN frequency and sperm abnormality although Gmp at 17.5 mg showed significant antidiabetic effect in the hyperglycemic animals. The results indicated that Gmp inhibited the NA-STZ mediated changes in the MN frequency and sperm abnormality and enhanced the antioxidant defense. The observations suggest that the antioxidant property of Gmp could have contributed for its ability to decrease the NA-STZ mediated defects in somatic and germinal cells.

001394   Puneet Kumar;Anil Kumar (Pharmacology Div, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Panjab University, Chandigarh-160 014) : Protective role of sertraline against 3-nitropropionic acid-induced cognitive dysfunction and redox ratio in striatum, cortex and hippocampus of rat brain. Indian J expl Biol 2009, 47(9), 715-22.

Huntington's disease (HD) is an inherited progressive neurodegenerative disorder in human characterized by progressive loss of movement and cognitive disturbances. 3-nitropropionic acid (3-NP; a mitochondrial toxin) produces age-dependent oxidative linked striatal damage, responsible for HD like symptoms. In the present study protective effect of sertraline in 3-NP induced HD like symptoms was evaluated in rats. Systemic administration of 3-NP (10 mg/kg for 14 days) resulted in impairment of memory as assessed in Morris water maze and elevated plus paradigm tasks. Biochemical analysis revealed that systemic 3-NP administration significantly impaired reduced glutathione, total glutathione, oxidized glutathione and glutathione-S-transferase levels, whereas the level of acetylcholinesterase enzyme increased in striatum, cortex and hippocampus regions of rat brain. Sertraline (5 and 10 mg/kg po) treatment once daily for 14 days significantly improved cognitive performance tasks and glutathione levels in 3-NP treated group. However, combination of yohimbine (2 mg/kg) (non selective serotonin receptors antagonist) with the higher dose of sertraline (10 mg/kg) did not influence the protective action of sertraline. Result shows that neuroprotective and antioxidant like effect of sertraline is independent of its conventional action on 5-HT receptor.

001393   Prem Kumar N;Annamalai A R;Thakur R S (Pharmacology Dep, Krupanidhi College of Pharmacy, # 5, Sarjapur road, Koramangala, Bangalore-560 034) : Antinociceptive property of Emblica officinalis Gaertn (Amla) in high fat diet-fed/low dose streptozotocin induced diabetic neuropathy in rats. Indian J expl Biol 2009, 47(9), 737-42.

Diabetic neuropathic pain is an important microvascular complication in diabetes mellitus and oxidative stress plays a vital role in associated neural and vascular complications. The present study investigated flavonoid rich fruit extract (ethyl acetate:methanol fraction) of E.officinalis (10 mg/kg), in type II diabetes (high fat diet fed/low dose streptozotocin) induced diabetic neuropathy in male Sprague-Dawley rats. Diabetic rats exhibited a significant hyperalgesia (nociception) as compared to control rats. Treatment with E.officinalis extract (EOE) and quercetin in diabetic rats showed significant increase in tail flick latency in hot immersion test and pain threshold level in hot plate test compared to control rats. The changes in lipid peroxidation status and anti-oxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase and catalase) levels observed in diabetic rats were significantly restored by E.officinalis extract and quercetin treatment. Both, E.officinalis extract and quercetin attenuated diabetic induced axonal degeneration. The study provides experimental evidence of the preventive and curative effect of E.officinalis on nerve function and oxidative stress in animal model of diabetic neuropathy. Since, E.officinalis fruit is already in clinical use for diabetic patients it may be evaluated for preventive therapy in diabetic patients at risk of developing neuropathy.

001392   Prabha M N;Ramesh C K;Kuppast I J;Mankani K L (Biotechnology Dep, Sahyadri College, Shimoga) : Anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities of Euphorbia tirucalli L. latex. Int J chem Sci 2008, 6(4), 1781-7.

The Aqueous, dichloromethane-methanol and pet, ether extract of the latex of Euphorbia tirucalli L. (Euphorbiaceae) was screened for analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities. Analgesic activity was compared with aspirin by tail-immersion and by acetic acid induced writhing methods. The anti-inflammatory activity against carrageenan induced paw edema in albino rats was compared with ibuprofen. In all the methods encouraging results were obtained for aqueous, dichloromethane-methanol and pet. ether extracts.

4 tabes, 11 ref

001391   Pavan Kumar K;Abedulla Khan K;Anupama K; Vanitha Prakash K (NO, Sultan-Ul-Uloom College of Pharmacy, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad-34, Email: pavanreddy79@gmail.com) : Antifungal and antihelmintic activity of Caralluma fimbriata Stem : a herb. Int J chem Sci 2008, 6(3), 1486-90.

Reports the antifungal and antihelmintic activity of ethylacetate and n-butanol extract from the stem of Caralluma fimbriata via, ascendens belonging to the family Asclepiadaceae. Antifungal activity was studied against Aspergillus niger, Candida albicans and antihelmintic activity was studied against earthworms Pheritima posthuma. Results were compared with that of standard drug.

2 tables, 18 ref