023681   Kamble K D;Musaddig M (Microbiology Dep, Shri Shivaji College of Arts, Commerce and Science, Akola-444 001) : Characterization of nuclease producing soil bacteria. J microbial Wld 2008, 10(2), 113-17.

Nucleases are the enzymes that degrade nucleic acid and have been used in almost all genetic engineering processes and also in pharmaceutical and chemotherapeutic fields. Therefore it is important to study the microorganism which produces them. Study is done on morphological and biochemical characterization of nuclease producing bacteria from soil. The source of nucleic acid for these bacteria in soil is decaying plant cells, dead animal cells and microbial cells. Efficient nuclease producing soil bacteria were screened from different fields of Akola city of Maharashtra.

1 illus, 1 table, 14 ref

023680   Kalia A;Gupta R P;Gosal S K;Gangwar M (Microbiology Dep, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana-141 004) : Effect of formononetin signal compound on root colonization by glomus sp in Zea mays (Maize). J microbial Wld 2008, 10(2), 172-6.

The study involved pot experiment using unsterilized soil on Zea mays. The results showed enhanced root colonization as well as increased number of arbuscules and vesicle formation in treatments with formononetin application along with V AM. However the maize seeds with only formononetin and no VAM spore application also showed enhanced root colonization than the VAM alone treatments. Both root and shoot biomass was observed to increase significantly over control. Present research work advocates the potential of this chemical for enhanced biomass production in cereals and also provides information regarding the role of intricate signaling exchange chemicals required for enhanced VAM colonization.

2 illus, 2 tables, 10 ref

023679   Kakde U B;Jamdhade V M (Botany Dep, B.N.Bandodkar College of Science, Thane(W)-400 601, Email: drvinodj@gmail.com) : Fungi responsible for biodegradation and humification of organic matter. Bionano Front 2009, 2(2), 77-81.

An attempt was made; for the mass cultivation of isolated fungi to carry out biodegr4dalion in the laboratory,: The mass cultivation of dominant fungi isolated from the different soil samples such as Aspergillus niger, Trichoderma virde an were done. For the mass cultivation of these fungi Jawar grain was used as the substrate. After the complete growth of the above fungi in the substrate were used for the study of degradation of plant litter in controlled condition i.e. in the plastic containers and in the piles. It is interesting to observe that the single culture of Asporgillus niger and Trichoderma virde and T. herzianum found to be responsible for degradation very fast than the mixed culture of the same.

1 illus, 2 tables, 10 ref

023678   Kadam M S;Nanware S S;Ambore N E (Zoology Dep, Yeshwant Mahavidyalaya, Nanded, Maharashtra) : Quality of lentic water of Bhategaon pond in Parbhani district, Maharashtra. Life Sci Bull 2008, 5(1), 27-9.

Various physico-chemical parameters were studied in Bhategaon pond water. The obtained values were compared with WHO and IST limits and found well within permissible limit. Thus, water of this water body was found suitable for drinking and pisciculture.

1 table, 10 ref

023677   Jyothirmayee C S;Bagde U S (Life Sciences Dep, University of Mumbai, Santacric (E), Mumbai, Maharashtra) : Electron microscopic study of Xanthobacter autotrophicus protoplast formation and regeneration. Natn J Life Sci 2008, 5(1), 91-7.

An efficient system for protoplast formation and regeneration was studied in Xanthobacter autotrophicus. The cells in late logarithmic phase were the most sensitive to Tris HCl-EDTA-lysozyme complex. It led to local destruction of cell wall due to hydrolysis of the peptidoglycan. Protoplast formation frequency of 64.51 % was observed after three hours of lysozyme treatment. The protoplasts preserved the intact ultrastructure and were able to resynthesize peptidoglycan fibrillae. Regeneration was also studied. In Xallthobacter autotrophicus protoplasts could he obtained by two ways: one by using a modified method of plasmid isolation by Warren and Higgens and another in presence of protoplast buffer with osmotic stabilizers arid lysozyme treatment. Both are equally effective.

7 illus, 22 ref

023676   Jha A (Sikkim Manipal Institute of Technology, , Majhitar, Rangpo, Gangtok-723 001) : Preliminary zopharmacognostical studies on Indian langur (Presbytis entellus).. Mendel int J 2008, 25(1-4), 49.

Zoopharmacognosis describe the process by which wild animals select the use of specitic plants with medicinal properties for the treatment and prevention of disease. Contributes recording of use of Nants having medicinal value by Indian Langur.

7 ref

023675   Jain G C;Jain K (Centre for Advanced Studies in Zoology, Rajasthan Univ, Jaipur-302 004) : Protective effect of Abutilon indicum against carbon tetrachloride induced hepatic toxicity in rats. J expl Zool 2008, 11(1), 165-8.

Hepatoprotective activity of 70% ethanolic extract of [Abutilon indicum L. Sweet leaves was investigated against carbon tetrachloride (CC1₄) induced hepatic damage in Wistar male rats. Co-administration of extract (200 and 400 mg/kg b. wt./day) orally for 7 days significantly reduced the levels of serum marker parameters like ALT, AST, ALP and total bilirubin and raised serum total proteins. Furthermore, the extract caused significant decline in lipid peroxidation (MDA) and cholesterol and an elevation in glycogen content of the liver as compared to CC1₄ treated control rats. The results of present study indicates good hepatoprotective activity of A. indicum in CCl₄ intoxicated rats.

2 tables, 23 ref

023674   Ingle V C;Minakshi Prasad;Karpe A G;Kalorey D R;Jadhav M B (Microbiology and Animal Biotecnology Dep, Nagpur Veterinary College, Nagpur) : Studies on bovine rotavirus: detection and electropherogram. Indian J Field Vet 2009, 4(4), 48-9.

8 ref

023673   Gupta S;Pethe A;Rothe S P;Rao N G V (NO, , C/o T-S- Shete building, Shastri Nagar, Aman Khan Plots, Akola-444 001) : Isolation and characterization of Bacillus thuringinensis strains from various locality of Vidarbha region. Mendel int J 2008, 25(1-4), 41-2.

The aim of study was the isolation of Bt from agroecology of Vidarbha region. Physiological, morphological and biochemical characters were studied for isolation and identification of different Bacillus thuringiensis strains in terms of their protein toxicity to the crop pests from parts of Vidarbha region.

4 tables, 9 ref

023672   Gupta G;Ishwar Singh (Veterinary Anatomy Dep, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Govind Ballabh Pant Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand-263 145) : Transmission electron microscopic studies on the granular leukocytes of guinea fowl (Numida meleagris). Indian J Anim Sci 2008, 78(11), 1265-7.

Blood cells from 10 guinea fowls were used for ul-trastructural studies of granulocytes. It was observed that the cytoplasm of heterophils was laden with pleomorphic membrane bound 5 types of granules. The number of elongated rod shaped granules was more than the other types. The cytoplasmic granules of eosinophils were rounded in shape. Some granules were having vacuoles in the center. The basophils had 4 types of the granules in the cytoplasm.

ref

023671   Gunasekaran S;Natarajan R K;Renganayaki V; Rathikha R (PG & Research Physics Dep, Presidency College, Chennai-600 005, Email: renganayaki_sri@rediffmail.com) : FTIR and UV visible spectrophotometric approach to discriminate leukemic sera. Asian J Chem 2008, 20(4), 2521-30.

Blood being the chief circulatory medium in human body, participates in every functional activity by virtue of its circulation through every organ. Almost in all diseases the blood undergoes major changes in chemical and biochemical propªerties. The study of blood by spectroscopic techniques can be used not only for understanding the biological nature of the disease, but also for the diagnosis of the disease. In the present work, Fourier Transform Infra Red (FTIR) and Visible spectroscopic techniques are employed to study the spectral differences between a healthy serum and that affected with leukemia. The intensity ratio parameters (IRP) among the peaks are calculated in both the methods and it is found to be an indicator to differentiate a leukemic serum from the healthy one. Also to substantiate the findings, univariate statistical analysis has been made.

4 illus, 3 tables, 22 ref

023670   Grafen A (St John's College, , Oxford OX1 3JP, UK, Email: alan.grafen@sjc.ox.ac.uk) : Simplest formal argument for fitness optimization. J Genet 2008, 87(4), 421-33.

Formal Darwinism Project aims to provide a formal argument linking population genetics to fitness optimization, which of necessity includes defining fitness. This bridges the gulf between those biologists who assume that natural selection leads to something close to fitness optimization and those biologists who believe on theoretical grounds that there is no sense of fitness that can usefully be said to be optimized. The current paper's main objective is to provide a careful mathematical introduction to the project, and it also reflects on the project's scope and limitations. The central argument is the proof of close ties between the mathematics of motion, as embodied in the Price equation, and the mathematics of optimization, as represented by optimization programmes. To make these links, a general and abstract model linking genotype, phenotype and number of successful gametes is assumed. The project has begun with simple dynamic models and simple linking models, and its progress will involve more realistic versions of them. The versions given here are fully mathematically rigorous, but elementary enough to serve as an introduction.

^iia41 ref

023669   Ghosh T;Maity T K;Bose A (NO, Institute of pharmacy and Technology, Salipur, Cuttack District, Orissa-754 202, Email: tghosh75@yahoo.co.in) : In-vitro free radical scavenging activity of ethanolic extract of leaves of Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp. J nat Remedies 2009, 9(2), 228-34.

Objective: is to study the in vitro antioxidant activity of the ethanolic extract of leaves of Cajanus cajan Linn. The antioxidant activity, reducing power, nitric oxide scavenging activity, superoxide radical scavenging activity, anti lipid peroxidation activity and total phenolics of the ethanolic extract of Cajanus cajan were studied in vitro as parameters to investigate its antioxidant potential. The reducing power of the extract was found to be concentration dependant. The absorbance increased with increasing amount of the sample. The antioxidant activity, nitric oxide scavenging activity, superoxide radical scavenging activity and anti lipid peroxidation activity were also concentration dependant with IC₅₀ value being 324.59 μg/ml, 46.42 μg/ml, 35.24 μg/ml and 338.02 μg/ml respectively. The activities were found to be comparable with the reference drugs. Amount of total phenolics was found to be 39.8 μg of pyrocatechol equivalent per mg of extract. The results obtained in the study indicate that ethanolic extract of C Cajunus is a potential source of natural antioxidants.

5 tables, 27 ref

023668   Gehlot P;Sharma K (Mycology and Microbiology Laboratory Dep, J.N.V. University, Jodhpur-432 001) : Identification and characterization of biocontrol agent: Coniothyrium fuckelii. J microbial Wld 2008, 10(2), 191-2.

^ssc5 illus, 8 ref

023667   Gautam R K;Irshad S;Shah S;Nirbhay Singh; Sharma S (Zoology Dep, School of Life Sciences, Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, Univ, Khandari Campus, Agra, Uttar Pradesh) : Biochemical alterations in the nuvan induced Indian catfish Heteropneustes fossilis. Natn J Life Sci 2008, 5(1), 73-4.

The indiscriminate use of pesticides has elevated the risk of contamination of environment and aquatic habitat. Considering the fact, the study has been under taken to investigate the alteration of certain, blood biochemical parameters of freshwater teleost lIeteroplleustesjossifis after sub-lethal Nuvan exposure. The LC₅₀ value of Nuvan was determined and the biochemical parameters such as serum total protein and blood glucose has been studied as diagnostic tools. The results indicated that blood glucose was increased, whereas serum total protein was found to decreased, with the increase in Nuvan exposure.

1 table, 10 ref

023666   Gaten E;Tarling G;Dowse H;Kyriacou C;Rosato E (Biology Dep, Leicester Univ, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK, Email: gat@le.ac.uk; er6@le.ac.uk) : Is vertical migration in antarctic krill (Euphausia superba) influenced by an underlying circadian rhythm?. J Genet 2008, 87(5), 473-83.

Antarctic krill (Euphausia superba) is a keystone species in the southern ocean ecosystem where it is the main consumer of phytoplankton and constitutes the main food item of many higher predators. Both food and predators are most abundant at the surface, thus krill hide in the depth of the ocean during the day and migrate to the upper layers at night, to feed at a time when the predatory risk is lowest. Although the functional significance of this diel vertical migration (DVM) is clear and its modulation by environmental factors has been described, the involvement of an endogenous circadian clock in this behaviour is as yet not fully resolved. We have analysed the circadian behaviour of Euphausia superba in a laboratory setting and here we present the first description of locomotor activity rhythms for this species. Our results are in agreement with the hypothesis that the circadian clock plays a key role in DVM. They also suggest that the interplay between food availability, social cues and the light:dark cycle acts as the predominant Zeitgeber for DVM in this species.

7 illus, 2 tables, 42 ref

023665   Ganvir S B;Tumane P M;Wadher B J (Microbiology Dep, L.I.T. Premises, R.T.M., Nagpur Unversity, Nagpur-440 033) : Antibacterial activity of clove and clove containing commercial products against dental pathogens. J microbial Wld 2008, 10(2), 193-5.

Antibacterial activity of clove and clove containing commercial products were tested against five test organisms namely Streptococcus sp., Staphylococcus sp., Lactobacillus sp., Pseudomonus sp. and Escherichia coli. Antibacterial activity against these five dental pathogens was studied by Agar Plate Well Diffusion Method/Cup Plate Method. Methanolic extract of clove was prepared and five commercial products were tested against dental pathogens. Clove extract was found to be effective against Streptococcus sp. and Lactobacillus sp. Essential oils of spices (clove) were found to posses strongest antibacterial properties.

^ssc1 table, 12 ref

023664   Fry J D (Biology Dep, Rochester Univ, Rochester NY 14627-0211, USA, Email: jfry@mail.rochester.edu) : Genotype-environment interaction for total fitness in Drosophila. J Genet 2008, 87(4), 355-62.

Fundamental assumption of models for the maintenance of genetic variation by environmental heterogeneity is that selection favours different genotypes in different environments. Here, I use a method for measuring total fitness of chromosomal heterozygotes in Drosophila melanogaster to assess genotype-environment interaction for fitness across two ecologically relevant environments, medium with and without added ethanol. Two-third chromosomes are compared, one from a population selected for ethanol tolerance, and the other from a control population. The results show strong crossing of reaction norms for outbred, total fitness, with the chromosome from the ethanol-adapted population increasing fitness on ethanol-supplemented food, but decreasing fitness on regular food, relative to the chromosome from the control population. Although I did not map the fitness effects below the chromosome level, the method could be adapted for quantitative trait locus mapping, to determine whether a substantial proportion of fitness variation is contributed by loci at which different alleles are favoured in different environments.

2 illus, 1 table, 38 ref

023663   Dutta T K;Sudhan N A;Azmi S (NO, S K Univ of Agricultural Sciences and Technology-Jammu, R S Pura, Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir-181 102) : PCR detection of Pasteurella multocida in eagle PCE based detection, characterization and antibiogram of Pasteurella multocida from wild eagle (Aquila rapax) in Jammu and Kashmir. Indian J Anim Sci 2008, 78(12), 1368-9.

^ssc9 ref

023662   Dixit S;Romsha Singh (NO, Govt. Science and Commerce College, Benazeer, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh) : Comparative enzymology in relation to toxicological study. Life Sci Bull 2008, 5(1), 35-8.

The resarch work is aimed to frame comparative assessment of ACP-ALP enzymatic activities in stomach and intestine of Puntius sophore and Heteropneustes fossilis due to the exposure of lead nitrate for the period of 30, 60 and 90 days and their subsequent recovery following withdrawal of fish from the exposure to lead nitrate intoxication for further 90 days. Significant elevation of ACP-ALP enzymatic activities was seen in stomach and intestine of both fishes with the increase in exposure length and toxicity, however Puntius shows a higher range while in recovery period, declining rate of ALP and ACP was seen. In both fishes ALP>ACP in treated and recovery period, however the rate of recovery was faster in H. fossilis.

3 illus, 1 table, 11 ref

023661   Dhami J S;Dwivedi P N;Ramneek;Deka D;Maiti N K;Oberoi M S (Veterinary Microbiology Dep, Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture, Kausalyaganga, Bhubaneswar-751 002) : Diagnosis of bovine herpesvirus-1 (BHV-1) infection in aborting cattle and buffaloes by virus isolation and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Indian J Anim Sci 2008, 78(11), 1235-7.

Sera samples (50) from cattle and buffaloes with the history of abortion from 2 dairy farms of Punjab were screened for BHV-1 antibody by using avidin-biotin ELISA (AB-ELISA) that revealed an overall prevalence rate of 72%. The seroprevalence of BHV-1 in cattle and buffaloes was 85.70 and 54.50%, respectively. Subsequently, double antibody sandwich ELISA (DAS-ELISA), virus isolation and PCR were carried out to detect BHV-1 in aborted placental tissues. A marked difference was observed between the proportion of PCR positive and DAS-ELISA and virus isolation positive samples, suggesting PCR to be more sensitive method for detection of BHV-1 in aborted placental tissue. A marked difference was observed between the proportion of PCR positive and DAS-ELISA and virus isolation positive samples. suggesting PCR to be more sensitive method for detection of BHV-1 in aborted placental tissue.

1 table, 16 ref

023660   Deivasigamani B;Alagappan K M;Kumaran S; Sakthivel M (CAS in Marine Biology, Annamalai Univ, Parangipettai-608 502, Email: b.deivasigamani@gmail.com) : On immune organs and cells of catfish Arius arius (Hamilton, 1822) from vellar estuary Parangipettai. Bionano Front 2009, 2(2), 131-2.

The study has been undertaken to observe the microscopic changes in immune cells like lympocytes and macrophages. It has been observed the significant response against foreign particles. Thin sectioning of spleen shown that the rnelanomacrophage centres, red pulp and white pulp patches. Study reveals that the splenic function and structure of immune cells of A.arius.

2 illus, 6 ref

023659   Deepa Devi S;Koijam L;Singh O A;Tiwari O N; Rohini M;Kumar Singh (Microbial Res Div, Institute of Bioresources and Sustainable Development, Takyelpat, Imphal, Manipur) : Cultural studies and partial characterization of acid tolerant cyanobacteria of germplasm of IBSD, Imphal, Manipur. Natn J Life Sci 2008, 5(2), 169-81.

More than four hundred (400) acid tolerant (5.0 to 6.5 pH) cyanobacteria belonging to twenty eight (28) genera collected from different ecological habitats of NE region of India are being maintained as unialgal germplasm of cyanobacteria at IBSD, Imphal, Manipur. On the basis of their growth attributes in culture conditions, sixty (60) potent isolates were identified for their detail studies particularly for cultural and partial biochemical investigations. Biochemical characterization like total soluble protein was investigated and five isolates namely, Plectonema nostocorum IBSD-33 (57.0 μl/ml), Anabeana variabilis IBSD-6 (55.5 μl/ml), Nostoc parmelioides IBSD-29 (54.0 μl/ml), Anabaena circinalis IBSD-8 (53.6 μl/ml) and Phormidium fragile IBSD-48 (52.0 μl/ml) were identified for commercial exploitation as the strains were found to be at par with the commercially available cyanobacteria in terms of total soluble protein. Five isolates namely, Anabaena iyengarii IBSD-23 (81.3 μl/ml), Anabaena aphanizomenoides IBSD-3 (77.1 μl/ml), Microcheate uberrima IBSD-l (69.3 μl/ml), Anabaena ambigua (62.0 μl/ml) IBSD-21 and Nostoc muscorum IBSD-56 (60.9 μl/ml) were also screened based on ammonia excretion for utilization as biofertilizer, particularly for terraced hill rice culture.

3 illus, 1 table, 28 ref

023658   Debruyne J P (Pharmacology Dep, Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Pennsylvania School of Medicine, 835 BRBII/III, 421 Curie Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA, Email: debruyne@mail.med.upenn.edu) : Oscillating perceptions: the ups and downs of the CLOCK protein in the mouse circadian system. J Genet 2008, 87(5), 437-46.

A functional mouse CLOCK protein has long been thought to be essential for mammalian circadian clockwork function, based mainly on studies of mice bearing a dominant negative, antimorphic mutation in the Clock gene. However, new discoveries using recently developed Clock-null mutant mice have shaken up this view. Discusses how this recent work impacts and alters the previous view of the role of CLOCK in the mouse circadian clockwork.

^iia5 illus, 53 ref

023657   Das H;Pathan M M;Latif A;Vadodaria V P (Animal Physiology & Biochemistry Dep, College of Veterinary Science & A. H. SDAU, Sardar krushinagar) : Evaluation of non-oxidative immunodefense mechanism of polymorphonuclear cells of goat (Capra hicus). Indian J Field Vet 2009, 4(4), 36-40.

Presence of PMN granular enzymes and their antimicrobial potency was tested in goat, and comparative efficacy of three different methods (TritonX-100 with and without acetic acid and 10% acetic acid) for extracting enzymes was also determined. Both the TritonX-100 treated homogenates with and without acetic acid yielded considerable myeloperoxidase, alkaline phosphatase, elastase and acid phosphatase activity. TritonX-100 alone was found to be effective for assay of most of the granular enzymes as it produced significant level (P<0.05) of activity compared to other two fractions, whereas 10% acetic acid yielded maximum level of lysozyme and elastase activity. Further, all the three extracts revealed antibacterial efficacy against S. aureus and E. coli strains, but only 10% acetic acid treated homogenate showed antifungal property against C. albican.

2 tables, 23 ref

023656   Dalua P;Behera C (PG Dep of Social Science, Fakir Mohan Univ, Balasore, Orissa) : Crime for honour: a reflection on Indian society. Amity J behavioural Forensic Sci 2008, 4(1), 85-91.

Brings social structures and their ideological base in to the debate and to contribute to a deeper understanding of crime for honour in India. Crime for honour exists in human civilization since long. The evidences of such kind of crimes were usually typified for societies of primitive or traditional in nature. But the growing evidences of brutality of such crimes in present age is a cause of concern for us, hence needs a fresh look to the nature, causes of crime in general and crime for honour in particular from a different angle.

13 ref

023655   Culha G;Yalin E;Sangun K (Parasitology Dep, Faculty of Medical, Mustafa Kemal University, Hatay, Turkey, Email: gulnazculha@yahoo.com) : Alterations in serum levels of trace elements in cutaneous leishmaniasis patients in endemic region of Hatay (Antioch). Asian J Chem 2008, 20(4), 3104-8.

Evaluates the alterations of zinc, copper, selenium and iron con centrations in serum of patients treated with meglumine antimonate (glucantime) and untreated cutaneous leishmaniasis. Serum levels of zinc, copper, selenium and iron were measured by atomic emission spectrometer. The serum levels of these elements were found to be significantly higher in untreated patients compared to those of healthy controls. However, the levels of zinc, copper and iron in serum were significantly reuced and selenium levels were increased in treated patients. These suggest that the increasing levels of trace elements in serum may be host defense strategies of organism infection. In addition the high trace element levels were a sequel of the disease rather than a cause.

1 table, 17 ref

023654   Chin J H;Hussin A H;Ismail S (School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medical Sciences, UCSI University, No. 1, Jalan Menara Gading-56000, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Email: jinhanchin@hotmail.com) : Hepatoprotective effect of Orthosiphon stamineus benth against acetaminophen intoxication in rats. J nat Remedies 2009, 9(2), 177-84.

Orthosiphon stamineus Benth (Lamiceae) is commonly used by the Malaysian for the treatment of many diseases such as diabetes mellitus and hypertension. In the study, the hepatoprotective effect of methanol extract of O. stamineus against acetaminophen (APAP)-induced hepatotoxicity in Sprague Dawley (SD) rats was studied. Fourty-two young male SD rats were randomly assigned to seven groups: normal control group, APAP control group, silymarin treated group and four groups receiving methanol extract of O. stamineus in varying dosages. The hepatoprotective effect of methanol extract of O. stamineus extract on SD rats was determined by using serum enzymes such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels and the percentage of hepatocytes viability. 2 g/kg of APAP caused a significant liver damage in APAP control group compared to normal control group. However, pretreatment with 500 mg/kg of methanol extract of O. stamineus to rats was significantly reverted all the APAP-induced changes in serum enzymes and the percentage of hepatocytes viability compared to the APAP control group. The results suggest that the use of methanol extract of O. stamineus appeared to be beneficial to rats in preventing the liver damage induced by APAP and may be of therapeutic value in the treatment of APAP-induced hepatotoxicity.

4 illus, 30 ref

023653   Chavan A M;Kakde R B (Seed pathology and Fungal Biotechnology Laboratory, Botany Dep, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada Univ, Aurangabad-431 004) : Abnormal oilseeds mycoflora from Marathwada region. Bionano Front 2009, 2(2), 101-4.

Investigation work is carried out on isolation of oilseed mycoflora from different market places, store house, fields from different parts of Marathwada region. Categories are made on the basis of abnormalities of the seeds. Along with scientific identification, qualitative and quantitative fungal load on the abnormal oilseeds is carried out. Dominant fungi would be further screened for their pathogenisity.

3 tables, 8 ref

023652   Cameron M A;Barnard A;Lucas R L (Faculty of Life Sciences, A.V. Hill Building, Manchester Univ, Manchester M13 9PT, UK, Email: robert.lucas@manchester.ac.uk) : Electroretinogram as a method for studying circadian rhythms in the mammalian retina. J Genet 2008, 87(5), 459-66.

Circadian clocks are thought to regulate retinal physiology in anticipation of the large variation in environmental irradiance associated with the earth's rotation upon its axis. In this review we discuss some of the rhythmic events that occur in the mammalian retina, and their consequences for retinal physiology. Also reviewes methods of tracing retinal rhythmicity in vivo and highlight the electroretinogram (ERG) as a useful technique in this field. Principally, discusses how this technique can be used as a quick and noninvasive way of assessing physiological changes that occur in the retina over the course of the day. Highlights some important recent findings facilitated by this approach and discuss its strengths and limitations.

^iia1 illus, 81 ref

023651   Buyukavci M;Buyukokuroglu M E;Koc M (Pediatric Oncology Div, Faculty of Medicine, Ataturk University, Lojmanlari, 50/2 Erzurum, Turkey, Email: buyukavci@hotmail.com) : Comparison of the effects of melatonin and granulocyte-colony stimulating factor in cyclophosphamide induced cytopenic rats. Asian J Chem 2008, 20(4), 2997-3001.

Peripheral cytopenias including leukopenia, anemia and thrombocytopenia are important side effects of current chemotherapeutic regimens. Melatonin has been demonstrated to ameliorate some of these complications and the agent granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) has been widely used in treatment of chemotherapy-induced neutropenia. In this study, we compared the protective effects of melatonin and G-CSF in cyclophosphamide-induced cytopenic rats. White blood cell counts, hemoglobin levels and platelet counts were measured in six groups of animals: (i) control; (ii) cyclophosphamide (CPM) injected; (iii) melatonin injected; (iv) G-CSF injected; (v) CPM plus melatonin injected; (vi) CPM plus G-CSF injected. White blood cell counts, hemoglobin levels and platelet counts were significantly higher in cyclophosphamide plus melatonin treated rats than in cyclophosphamide alone treated animals. In the G-CSF plus cyclophosphamide treated group, only white blood cell counts were higher than the cyclophos-phamide group. However, G-CSF raised the white blood cell count more than melatonin when administered following cyclophosphamide. Although melatonin has beneficial effects on the chemotherapy-induced anemia and thrombocytopenia, it is not as effective as G-CSF for preventing the leukopenia.

1 table, 24 ref

023650   Brahmani Priyadarshini S R;Mishra M C;Murugan V;Angelin T (Pharmaceutical Chemistry Dep, Dayananda Sagar College of Pharmacy, Kumaraswamy Layout, Bangalore-560 078, Email: brahmani_priya@yahoo.co.in) : Statistical analysis of the factors affecting the recovery of microbial oil. Asian J Chem 2008, 20(4), 2623-7.

Production of microbial oil by fermentation process using oleaginous organisms is one of the potential alternative sources of collecting lipids. Rhodotourula gracilis, is one of the oleaginous yeast, explored for their oleaginiecity. The degradation of the cell wall of the yeast is an absolute necessity in order to extract oil using organic solvents. Acid hydrolysis is one of the chemical methods commonly employed for this purpose. The concentration, contact time and temperature of acid hydrolysis are the three variable parameters observed during degradation of the cell wall. An analysis of variance of these three factors was carried out to analyze to know which of the three factors affected the extraction of oil significantly and also to know the interaction between these factors.

2 tables, 6 ref

023649   Bisht I;Joshi S C;Agarwal S K (Zoology Dep, Kumaun Univ Campus, Almora-263 601) : Comparative study of paired fin epidermis of hill-stream fishes. histochemical and biostatistical analysis. J expl Zool 2008, 11(1), 241-9.

Microanatomy and cytochemical nature of various epidermal components of paired fins of Barilius vagra and Garra lamta (Cyprinidae), Homaloptem brucei (Homalopteridae) and Glyptothorax pectinopterus (Sisoridae), adapted to life in fast flowing streams has been examined. Epidermis is differentiated into glandular and non-glandular epidermis in both fins in later three fishes. Non-glandular epidermis covering ventral surface is composed of mainly epithelial cells which at surface are provided with horny structures often seen detaching from underlying layer in form of a sheet. Histochemical properties concludes that these cells are keratinized in nature and help in adhesion. Glandular epidermis is equipped with epithelial cells, mucous cells secreting large amounts of sulphated acidic glycoproteins, club cells, sacciform granular cells and vesicle-containing granular cells. The possible role of gland cells in protection has been discussed. In addition, melanophores are also observed on dorsal surface of paired fins. These cells may act as macrophages, playing an important role in preventing colonization by parasites, fungi and bacteria over body surface. Surface epithelial cells here are, in contrast, non-keratinized and metabolically active. A thin epidermis has less protective significance at interray region in H. brucei.

8 illus, 4 tables, 14 ref

023648   Bhave M S;Golatkar V (Botany Dep, D.G. Ruparel College, Mahim, Mumbai-400 016, Email: golatkar@mail.com) : Antibacterial activity of Wedelia chinensis (Osbeck) merrill. Bionano Front 2009, 2(2), 97-100.

In-vitro screening of phytoextracts prepared from Wedelia chinensis (Osbeck) Merrill, a medicinally important plant of Family Asteraceae, :. using Petroleum ether, Chloroform, Methanol and Water as extractants, is carried out to evaluate their antibacterial activity against three Gram negative bacteria viz., Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi and Pseudomonas aeruginosa and two Gram positive bacteria viz., Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus. All the phytoextracts showed antibacterial activity against S. typhi and both the gram positive bacteria. However, none of the extract could inhibit E. coli and P. aeruginosa.

4 tables, 14 ref

023647   Bhardwaj S K;Laura J S (Bio-Sciences Dep, M.D. University, Rohtak, Haryana) : Potential use of some plant-extracts against Curvularia lunata. Natn J Life Sci 2008, 5(1), 111-15.

The aqueous extracts from twenty plants were screened for their antifungal activity against Curvularia lunata inciting discolouration of rice seed. Test results showed a differential activity of the plant extracts against the mycelium growth. The maximum inhibitory effect was shown by rhizome extracts of Curcuma dOl1lastica and seed extracts of Acacia arabicae. The seed extracts of Albizia stipulata, leaf extracts of Aegle marmelos and root extracts of Acacia catechu showed appreciable inhibitory effect against the test fungi. Other plants viz. Casuarinae equisetifolia Cuscuta reflexa<Carissa carandus<Azadirachta indica<Capparis decidua<Ceiba pentandra showed inhibitory activity in that order.

2 tables, 18 mref

023646   Benmehdi H;Allali H;Tabti B;Djabou N; Bendiabdellah A;Lahfa F;Djaziri R (Laboratory of Organic Chemistry, Naturals Products and Analysis (COSNA, University of Aboubekr Belkaid, BP 119, 13000, Tlemcen, Algeria, Email: h_allali72@yahoo.fr) : Hypo and antihyperglycaemic effect of Citrullus colocinthis L. seeds in normal and streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Asian J Chem 2008, 20(4), 2711-18.

Citrullus colocinthis L. is used in Algerian folk medecine for the treatment of diabetes mellitus. Intra peritoneal administration of the aqueous extract of the seed (1.25 g/kg body weight) to streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats produced a signiticant reduction of blood sugar level in the long term, while the same extract produced no alteration of glycaemia in normal rats in the short term. The aqueous extract of this plant seems to have maximal adverse effect and high LD₁₁₀ value.

2 illus, 1 table, 31 ref

023645   Bechtold D A (Faculty of Life Sciences, Manchester Univ, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK) : Energy-responsive timekeeping. J Genet 2008, 87(5), 447-58.

An essential component of energy homeostasis lies in an organism's ability to coordinate daily patterns in activity, feeding, energy utilization and energy storage across the daily 24-h cycle. Most tissues of the body contain the molecular clock machinery required for circadian oscillation and rhythmic gene expression. Under normal circumstances, behavioural and physiological rhythms are orchestrated and synchronized by the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) of the hypothalamus, considered to be the master circadian clock. However, metabolic processes are easily decoupled from the primarily light-driven SCN when food intake is desynchronized from normal diurnal patterns of activity. This dissociation from SCN based timing demonstrates that the circadian system is responsive to changes in energy supply and metabolic status. There has long been evidence for the existence of an anatomically distinct and autonomous food-entrainable oscillator (FEO) that can govern behavioural rhythms, when feeding becomes the dominant entraining stimulus. But now rapidly growing evidence suggests that core circadian clock genes are involved in reciprocal transcriptional feedback with genetic regulators of metabolism, and are directly responsive to cellular energy supply. This close interaction is likely to be critical for normal circadian regulation of metabolism, and may also underlie the disruption of proper metabolic rhythms observed in metabolic disorders, such as obesity and type-II diabetes.

^iia2 illus, 159 ref

023644   Basseri H R;Rahmani L;Hajhosaini R; Abolhassani M;Abaie M R (Biochemistry Dep, Payam-E-Nour Univ, Tehran, Iran) : Isoenzymes of cytochrome P450 in insecticide resistance strain of malaria vector, Anopheles stephensi. J expl Zool 2008, 11(1), 221-4.

Enzyme based mechanism of insecticide resistance was investigated by comparing a DDT susceptible stock and resistant colonies of Anopheles stephensi. Standard WHO insecticide susceptibility tests was performed using 4% DDT impregnated paper in order to obtain resistance ratio of both the strains. Purification of cytochrome P450 of both the strains was also done by Anion Exchange Chromatography. DDT resistant strain showed average 77% mortality while it was 99% in the susceptible population. Although, the level of total cytochrome P450s in both strains was more and less the same but two peaks of cytochrome P450 isoenzymes were observed in susceptible group in which one was eliminated in the resistant strain. It seems that An. stephensi able to modify isoenzymes production in such a manner that sacrificing an unnecessary one and over expressing another which evolves in detoxification of insecticide.

2 illus, 23 ref

023643   Barpete S;Sharma N C;Parmar D;Dhingra M (Genetics Dep, Barkatullah University, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh) : In-vitro regeneration of Lathyrus sativus L. Natn J Life Sci 2008, 5(2), 207-10.

In-vitro protocol was developed for prolific shoot and root regeneration, from a genotype P-24 of Lathyrus sativus L. Vegetative epicotyl explants from culture plant were used to induce regeneration. Shoot formation was observed in explant epicotyls by specific plant growth regulator manipulations in most cases where explants produced multiple shoots and roots. Epicotyl explants of L.sativus were observed on several treatments of a cytokinin in combination with an auxin incorporated in Murashige and Skoog medium. Multiple shoot induction was observed in most of the media containing IAA (0.10 mg/l) and BAP (0.5mg/l). That produced on average 8 shoots per explant (3-4 cm or more long). The shoots thus obtained have exhibited rooting in half MS supplemented with IBA (0.25 mg/l). During the whole year, plants have been regenerated several times and it is noted that the requirement for growth regulators is very specific and narrow.

4 illus, 1 table, 14 ref

023642   Bandyopadhyay S;Sasmal D;Bora M;Ghosh M K; Sarkar M (NO, National Research Centre on Yak, Dirang-790 101) : Antibacterial profile of Rubus idaeus (Rasberry) : an in vitro study. Indian J Anim Sci 2008, 78(11), 1247-9.

Investigation was carried out to study the antibacterial effect of methanolic extract of Rubus idaeus (R-Me OH) against raulti drug resistant isolates (of Haemophilus somnus and Pasteurella (Mannheimia) haemolytica collected from yaks susceptible with MIC₅₀ and MIC₈₀of 12.5 and 20.5 mg/mL. R-MeOH (21mg/mL) viability of both the species remains more than 50%.

12 ref

023641   Balamurugan G;Jagan Mohan M;Muthusamy P (Pharmacognosy Dep, Madras Medical College, , Email: Muthu_p99@yahoo.com) : Protective effect of Trianthema portulacastrum Linn leaves on gentamicin induced nephrotoxicity in rats. J nat Remedies 2009, 9(2), 165-9.

Objective: is to evaluate the nephro protective effect of ethanolic extract of Trianthema portulacastrum leaves in gentamicin induced renal damage in rats. The nephrp protective activity of ethanolic extract of T.portulacastrum leaves was evaluated against gentamicin induced renal damage in rats. Various biochemical parameters were assessed and histopathological section of the kidney was taken. The protective effect was further studied from analyzing the potential of the extract to scavenge the free radicals. i.p administration of ethanolic extract of T.portulacastrum restored the levels of the biochemical factors determined significantly and exhibited a significant potential to scavenge free radicals with respect to control. The ethanolic extract of T.portulacastrum exhibited significant (P< 0.001) nephro protective activity.

3 illus, 2 tables, 16 ref

023640   Bagci E;Kursat M;Kocak A;Gur S (NO, Firat Univ, Science and Letter Faculty, Biology Dep, Elazig, Turkey, Email: ebagci@firat.edu.tr) : Composition and antimicrobial activity of the essential oils of Tanacetum balsamita L. subsp. balsamita and T. chiliophyllum (Fisch. et Mey.) Schultz Bip. var. chiliophyllum (Asteraceae) from Turkey. J essential Oil Bearing Pl 2008, 11(5), 476-84.

Chemical composition of the essential oils of dried aerial parts of Tanacetum balsamita subsp. balsamita and T. chiliophyllum var. chiliophyllum were analyzed by GC and GC-MS. Forty five and forty six components were identified representing 81.0 % and 84.4 % of the oils, respectively. Traw-chrysanthenol (22.3 %), chrysanthenyl acetate (19.7 %), linalool oxide (11.5 %), camphor (7.5 %), 1,8-cineoIe (2.7 %) were found to be major components in T. balsamita subsp. balsamita and camphor (28.5 %), 1,8-cineole (17.1 %), camphene (7.1 %), isobornyl propionate (5.4 %), carveol (4.5 %) and borneol (3.5 %) were also found as major constituents in T. chiliophyllum var. chiliophyllum. In vitro antimicrobial activities of these oils and two antibiotics against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and two yeasts were also investigated. The results exhibited that the total oils and antibiotics possess moderate activities against all the tested microorganisms.

2 tables, 37 ref

023639   Arora B;Singh K (Biotechnology Dep, Govt P.G. College, Mhow, Madhya Pradesh) : Effect of pH on bacterial biomembrane during transport of β-lactams. Natn J Life Sci 2008, 5(2), 157-63.

Study was conducted with an objective to examine the release of proteins and their involvement during the transport of <98-lactams namely, Ceftriaxone and Cefazolin in Escherichia coli K-12. Response of Gram-negative bacterial biomembrane alteration was studied in the presence of modulating factor pH. The protein release was monitored from intact cells, as well as, membrane vesicles derived from E.coli cells and studied upto a level of molecular weight determination. Protein was measured by using high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC). The study confirms the induction of certain stress signal proteins from the outer membrane, thereby rendering the bacteria more susceptible to therapy. The broader applications of Ceftriaxone for pharmaceutical implications offer greater advantage as compared to pre-existing β-lactams. The study reveals understanding to know the resistance mechanisms which would be helpful in making recommendations on the best use of antibiotics and to formulate therapeutic strategies to control infections.

5 illus, 15 ref

023638   Albayrak S;Sagdic O;Aksoy A;Hamzaoglu E (Food Engineering Dep, Faculty of Engineering, Erciyes University, Kayseri 38039, Turkey, Email: osagdic@ercives.edu.tr) : Antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of Helichrysum species from the Mediterranean region of Turkey. Asian J Chem 2008, 20(4), 3143-52.

Investigates the antioxidant, antiradical and antimicrobial activities of methanolic extracts from three Helichrysum species [H. pamphylicum Davis & Kupicha, H. sanguineum (L.) Kostel, H. chasmolycicum P.H. Davis (Asteraceae)]. The total phenolic contents of methanolic extracts ranged from 71.51 to 119.85 mg gallic acid/g dry extract. H. pamphylicum methanolic extract showed the highest antioxidant activity (173.58 mg ascorbic acid/g dry extract). Antiradical activity of H. sanguineum methanolic extract was the highest (IC₅₀ =12.90 μg/mL) in DPPH assay. All the extracts were investigated for antimicrobial effect against 15 species of microorganisms containing thirteen bacteria and two yeasts. The methanolic extracts were inactive against Escherichia coli and Proteus mirabilis. The most sensitive bacteria were Klebsiella pneumoniae for H. pamphylicum, Staphylococcus au reus (B), Proteus vulgaris for H. sanguineum and S. aureus (B) for H. chasmolycicum. All of the Helichlysum extracts showed similar antimicrobial activities against microorganisms tested. In conclusion, this study provides the basis for the present rapidly increasing interest for the use of natural antioxidants and antimicrobials as functional food ingredients and/or as food supplements.

3 illus, 1 table, 29 ref

023637   Ahmadizadeh M;Loveimi B D (Toxicology Dep and Public Health, Ahwaz Jundishapur Univ of Medical Sciences, Ahwaz, Iran) : Effect of N-acetyl cysteine on lindane induced toxicity in rat respiratory system. J expl Zool 2008, 11(1), 33-7.

Lindane (L) is an organochlorine agent which is widely used in agriculture as pesticide and in medicine for treatment of pediculosis and eradication of scabies. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of N-aeetylcysteine (NAC) on L induced respiratory toxicity. Adult male Sprague rats were treated with 250 mg/kg NAC or vehicle for 30 min. prior administration of L at doses of 10,20 or 40 mg/kg. Control animals received vehicle only. 24 h later; rats were killed with over dose of sodium pentobarbital. Results of the present study showed that L produced dose-dependent manner injury in respiratory epithelial cells. NAC protected cells against L-iriduced toxicity. These findings further support the view that reactive toxic metabolite (s) of L produced toxicity. Depletion of glutathione may be responsible for L caused cytotoxicity.

5 illus, 23 ref

023636   Agostino P V;Plano S A;Golombek D A (Laboratorio de Cornobiologia, Departamento de Ciencia y Tecnologia, Universidad Nacional de Auilmes / CONICET, Roque Saenz Pena 352, Bernal (B1876BXD), Buenos Aires, Argentina, Email: dgolombek@unq.edu.ar) : Circadian and pharmacological regulation of casein kinase I in the hamster suprachiasmatic nucleus. J Genet 2008, 87(5), 467-71.

In mammals, the mechanism for the generation of circadian rhythms and entrainment by light-dark (LD) cycles resides in the hypothalamic suprachiasmatic nuclei (SCN), and the principal signal that adjusts this biological clock with environmental timing is the light:dark cycle. Within the SCN, rhythms are generated by a complex of molecular feedback loops that regulate the transcription of clock genes, including per and cry. Posttranslational modification plays an essential role in the regulation of biological rhythms; in particular, clock gene phosphorylation by casein kinase I, both epsilon (CKIe) and delta (CKI), regulates key molecular mechanisms in the circadian clock. In this paper, we report for the first time that CKI activity undergoes a significant circadian rhythm in the SCN (peaking at circadian time 12, the start of the subjective night), and its pharmacological inhibition alters photic entrainment of the clock, indicating that CKI may be a key element in this pathway.

2 illus, 27 ref

023635   Agnihotri R;Shrivastava S K (Applied Chemistry Dep, Jabalpur Engineering College, Jabalpur-382 011, Email: rohitas_chemist@yahoo.com) : Chemical and bio-chemical studies on some hybrid millet seeds. Asian J Chem 2008, 20(4), 2657-62.

The millets are very important staple food in the rural parts of India. The three hybrid varieties of millets viz., Ragi (O), Kutki (jk-8) and Kodo (jk-48) were analyzed for their proximate composition and oxalate, tannin and cyanogenetic glucosides content.

5 tables, 17 ref

022653   Yankanchi S R;Momin S N;Kasabe S;Kanase A (Cell Biology Section, Zoology Dep, Shivaji Univ, Kolhapur-416 004, Email: sryankanchi@yahoo.co.in) : Plethesmographic evaluation of anti-inflemmatory properties of benzene extract of Vitex negundo (L) leaf in albino rat. Int J Pharmac biol Sci 2009, 3(2), 69-74.

Benzene extract of Vitex negundo (L) leaf was tested with different doses ((0.2%, 0.4%, 0.6% 0.8% and 1% in coconut oil) against formaldehyde induced paw edema in albino rats. Injection of 0.01% formaldehyde induced ~2 fold oedema on 30 minutes. Paw recovered intrinsically after a week. The doses mediated alterations showed reduction in the duration of recovery on external application (once). Dose of 0.2% reduced the time of recovery by 2 days and 0.4%) dose reduced it by 5 days while: doses 0.6% and 0.8% reduced it to 150 minutes. Dose of 1% reduced it to 1 Vi hours. Thus, benzene extract of Vitex negimdo leaf showed anti-inflammatory properties against local inflammatory agents induced by formaldehyde in rat. Similarly, the results also indicated reduction in pains as judged by backward thrusts at foot-printing. The results are discussed with formaldehyde induced inflammation.

1 table, 21 ref

022652   Xavier Vergeese Raja A;Hiranmai Yadav R; Subashinin P (Biotechnology Dep, Karpagam Univ, Coimbatore-21, Email: xavierbt_06@yahoo.co.in) : Antimicrobial activity of plant extract on Acacis concinna (Wild). Int J Pharmac biol Sci 2009, 3(2), 161-4.

The antibacterial activity of Acacia concinna against four different strains Escherichia coli, Streptococcus pyogens, Klebsiella, Staphylococcus aureus were studied. Extracts of the pods were prepared by using five different solvents (methanol, Acetone, Chloroform, alcohol and Hexane). The antimicrobial activity assay was carried out by agar diffusion method. The methanol extract of Acacia concinna inhibited all the four strains of microbes compared to other extracts which showed variable antibacterial activities or could not cause any inhibition.The pattern of inhibition varied with the plant extracts,the solvents used for extraction and the organism tested.The minimum inhibitory concentration(MIC) of the potent extract and the minimum bacteriocidal concentrarion (MBC) was observed.

2 tables, 11 ref

022651   Walvekar M V;Pillai M M (Zoology Dep, Shivaji University, Kolhapur-416 004, Email: madhuri_walvekar@rediffmail.com) : Endocrine relation between submandibular gland and testes. J Cell Tissue Res 2008, 8(2), 1411-16.

One month old mice were sublingulectomised (removal of sublingual gland) and maintained under normal conditions in the animal house up to the age of three months. Thereafter, the weight of testes, epididymis and sperm count per epididymis were determined in both sublingulectomised and normal mice. Protein, lipid, DNA content and LDH activity in testis were determined in all the mice. Thin layer chromatography of phospholipids and electrophoretic separation of LDH were also done. The weight of testis and LDH activity were decreased significantly, while the fluctuations of remaining parameters were insignificant. TLC of phospholipids showed that there was not much difference in the quantity of phospholipids in testis of sublingulectomised mice, while electrophoretic separation of LDH demonstrated the absence of LDH-X band in experimental animals.

6 illus, 2 tables, 28 ref