011163   Ananthi S;Saravana Babu C;Chandronitha C; Hannahr Vasanthi A (Biochemistry Dep, Sri Ramachandra Univ, Porur, Chennai-600 116) : In-vitro antioxidant activity of the green alga Halimeda tuna. Seaweed Res Utilis 2008, 30(spl), 141-7.

Natural resources rich in antioxidants play essential role in the prevention and management of various diseases. Seaweeds are potential sources for antioxidant principles. Halimeda tuna a green seaweed, was screened for its secondary metabolites contents such as total phenolic compounds, tannins flavonoids and antioxidant activity in 1, 1, diphenyl picryl hydrazyl (DPPH) radical, lipid peroxidation (LPO) and nitric oxide (NO) scavenging models. H. tuna possesses significant amount of total phenolic compounds (8.62±0.05% w/w), tannins (6.28±0.04% w/w) and flavonoids (2.41±0.05% w/w). Total antioxidant and reducing capacity of H. tuna was found to be 4.28±0.09% and 5.29±0.04% w/w respectively. It exhibited potential NO scavenging (IC₅₀-2.33μg/ml) and LPO inhibitory (IC₅₀-6.3μg/ml) effect and moderate scavenging effect on DPPH radical (IC₅₀-337.40μg/ml). H. tuna showed significant antioxidant activity in the tested models and it can serve as a potential source in the search of antioxidants.

2 tables, 31 ref

011162   Agrawal P K;Katiyar A K (NO, Indian Institute of Pulses Research, Kanpur-208 024) : Validation of chickpea-STMS markers and DNA fingerprinting in lentil (Lens culinaris subsp. culinaris) cultivars of India. Indian J Genet Pl Breed 2008, 68(2), 149-56.

A set of 31 lentil genotypes having indigenous and exotic origin were screened using 42 STMS markers derived from chickpea genome. Out of the 42 STMS primers tested, all of them gave amplified products in lentil. Among them 36 (85.7%) primers were found to be polymorphic among the lentil genotypes. At genetic distance of less than 0.29, all the 31 genotypes could be grouped into five clusters where cluster IV contained 19 genotypes, including the exotic genotype Precoz. Many primers gave genotype-specific amplified products which in combination(s) could be used for DMA fingerprinting of lentil genotypes. A set of 16 STMS markers have been identified which could differentiate all the lentil cultivars of India and, along with the morphological data can be used for identification and confirmation of the purity of the lentil cultivars.

2 illus, 4 tables, 13 ref

011161   Adikay S;Koganti B;Prasad K V S R G (Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology, Sri Padmavathi Mahila Viswavidyalayam, Tirupati-517 502) : Effect of alcoholic extract of roots of Dichrostachys cinerea Wight & Arn. against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats. Nat Prod Radiance 2009, 8(1), 12-8.

The alcoholic extract of roots of Dichrostachys cinerea Wight & Arn. (200 and 400 mg/kg, p.o.) was studied for its protective effect against cisplatin-induced renal injury in rats. Cisplatin (6mg/kg, i.p.) significantly elevated serum markers level, increased urinary protein excretion, reduced urine to serum creatinine ratio and creatinine clearance. In curative regimen, the alcoholic extract exhibited dose dependent protection. Animals which received prophylactic treatment also showed partial protection against cisplatin-induced effects. Histopathological studies substantiated the above results. Further, the alcoholic extract showed marked nitric oxide scavenging effect and reducing power suggesting an antioxidant property. A triterpenoid, fatty acid and a steroid were isolated from the n-hexane, ethyl acetate fractions of alcoholic extract. The results suggested that the roots of D. cinerea showed protective effect against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity which may probably be mediated by its antioxidant property.

010189   Xu J R;Chen J K;Mei J;Xiao Y X;Chen C;Hu D J (College of Pharmacy, Wuhan Univ, Wuhan 430072, PR China, Email: yuxiuxiao@yahoo.com.cn) : Determination of P-glycoprotein ATpase activity by capillary electrophoresis. Asian Chem Lett 2008, 12(1-2), 77-80.

A capillary electrophoresis (CE) technique was used for determination of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) ATPase activity of the membrane proteins obtained from K562/A cells by measuring the consumption of ATP. CE conditions were as follows: Polyacrylamide coated capillaries (50 μm i.d., 365 μm o.d) of 50 cm in length and 45 cm to detector were used; the running buffer consisted of 89 mmol.L^-1 Tris- boric acid (pH 8.0); pressure injection was 18 mbar for 5 s; the temperature of the capillary cassette was set at 15°C; the voltage was -15 kV; the UV detection was performed at 214 nm. The internal standard method, salicylic acid as internal standard (IS), was used to quantitatively determine ATP. It was found that the baseline separation between ADP, ATP and IS, with good peak shapes, was achieved under CE conditions above. Good linear correlation (r = 0.9996) was obtained within the ATP concentrations of 0.0612 mg.mL^-1 -0.612 mg.mL^-1. The average recoveries for ATP samples at the concentration of 0.478 mg mL^-1, 0.287 mg.mL^-1 and 0.096 mg.mL^-1 were 97.13%, 99.28% and 103.61%, with RSDs of 4.00%, 1.59% and 1.09% (n = 3), respectively. The repeatability was also satisfactory, as indicated by RSD (3.20%) of F^ATP/ADS (the ratio of ATP peak area to IS peak area) obtained by 10 consecutive runs within one day. In addition, the effect of doxorubicin and its concentration on P-gp ATPase activity was investigated. The results demonstrated that doxorubicin, a well-known P-gp substrate, can stimulate P-gp ATPase activity in a concentration-dependent manner.

1 illus, 1 able, 15 ref

010188   Wokoma E C (Microbiology Dep, Faculty of Science, Port Harcourt Univ, P.M.B. 5323, Port Harcourt, Nigeria, Email: ecwokoma@yahoo.co.uk) : Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria isolated from Choba rivers state Nigeria. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(4), 739-47.

Forty-eight strains of Pseudomonas putida, P. fluorescens, P. aeruginosa and Bacillus were isolated from the rhizosphere, root washings, and root segments of corn, tomato cassava, fluted pumpkin, plantain, banana, waterleaf, and pawpaw, grown in Choba, Rivers State, Nigeria. Seventeen strains were identified as P. putida, eight as P. fluorescens, 17 as P. aeruginosa and six as Bacillus. Fourteen strains were selected and screened for their biocontrol potential by evaluating their ability to inhibit in vitro growth of Botryodiplodia theobromae, a common soil borne pathogen attacking several field crops in the region. Three strains of P. putida and three of P. aeruginosa were shown to have antifungal activity against B. theobromae by inhibiting biomass (mycelium dry weight) of the fungus. Analysis of results showed that the strains were significantly (p=0.05) more antagonistic than a known biocontrol strain of P. putida (W4P5) but were comparable in antifungal activity to P. fluorescens Pf-5, another known biocontrol agent. The plant growth promoting activity of test bacterial strains was assessed by bacterizing corn seeds before planting in potted soil and potted builders' sand. Bacterization of corn seeds improved emergence by 72%, three days after planting, and significantly enhanced seedling height five days after planting. These findings establish the biocontrol potential and plant growth-promoting ability of local strains of Pseudomonas.

7 tables, 22 ref

010187   Vinaya Sagar Goud J;Jaya Prakash Goud M; Singaracharya M A (Microbiology Dep, Kakatiya Univ, Warangal-506 009, Email: envirosag@yahoo.com) : Screening of macrofungi for lignin degrading enzymes. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(4), 765-6.

40 basidiomycetes species were screened for the presence of three important lignolytic enzymes. Maximum enzyme activity was observed in Clitopilus sps. 0.560 u/mL (laccase), Lentinula edodes, 0.521 (mnp) and Sphaerobolous sp, 0.700 (lip). Lignolytic enzymes can be exploited in biobleaching and biopulping process.

1 table, 15 ref

010186   Verma S K (Psychology Dep, Allahabad Univ, Allahabad) : Working and non-working rural and urban elderly: subjective well being and quality of life. Indian J Gerontol 2008, 22(1), 107-18.

The study is an attempt to explore the experience of subjective well being and quality of life among working and Non-working elderly across rural and urban settings. The measures used in this study were P.G.I, health questionnaire, Satisfaction with life scale and Quality of life scale. Results show that elderly of this study have low levels of health problems. Elderly are more satisfied with future and experience better quality of life. Rural elderly showed more physical health problems compared to urban elderly. On the other hand urban elderly were more satisfied with past. Rural elderly showed more satisfaction with future. Urban elderly experience more independence, better social relations, environment and total quality of life in comparison to rural elderly. No significant differences were, however, found for working and Non-working elderly.

3 tables, 19 ref

010185   Tareque M I (Population Science and Human Resource Development Dep, Rajshahi Univ, Rajshahi-6205, Bangladesh) : Bangladesh population ageing and life expectancies : 1950-2050. Indian J Gerontol 2008, 22(1), 119-26.

Bangladesh has experienced a steady decline in mortality accompanied by modest decline infertility. The outcome of these decrease constitute the framework within which the implication of population ageing and the extension of life are required to be considered. Since the older population is growing at a considerably faster rate and the life expectancy is also increasing with the advancement of time. The elderly should not be considered as a burden to the society. Their valuable experiences should be utilized fruitfully. Both government and society should take the responsibility of elderly.

4 tables, 17 ref

010184   Sunil Babu K;Ammani K (Micribiology Dep, Acharya Nagarjuna Univ, Nagarjuna Nagar-522 510) : Antimicrobial activity of Acacia leucophloea. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(4), 939-41.

Antimicrobial activity of the bark (methanol, ethanol and water extract) of Acacia leuophloea belonging to the family Mimosaceae was studied. The extract was extracted by soxhlet apparatus. The effect of the extract against 18 bacterial and one fungal stains was tested by filter paper disc diffusion technique, having Chlorimophenicol a broad sprectrum antibiotic as control for for bacterial strains and Flukanazole antibiotic for fungal strain. Out of three extracts, the ethanol extract was found to be more effective with both bacterial and methanol with fungal activity.

1 table, 15 ref

010183   Singh M (NO, Indira Gandhi National Open Univ, Regional Centre, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh) : Winning against free radicals : antioxidants. Flora Fauna 2008, 14(2), 183-202.

Free radicals are any species that contain one or more unpaired electrons. It will take an electron from fat, proteins or DNA for its full complement. Normal metabolic processes, pollution, solar and cosmic radiation and smoking all affect the bodies by forming highly reactive cells. Antioxidants are molecules that prevent free radicals from doing harm to the DNA, proteins, and cells by donating an electron. The most popular and abundant antioxidant vitamins are ascorbic acid (vitamin C), tocopherol (vitamin E) and beta-carotene. Medical studies show that antioxidants can help in preventing certain diseases such as arteriosclerosis which can be brought on by free radicals oxidizing the low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol damaging the artery lining. Studies are being done to find out if antioxidants can help in preventing damaging effects of visible light on the retina and the lens epithelium. Another benefit that antioxidant vitamins may have, but is not yet proven, is their role in the prevention of cancer by stopping the attack of hydroxyl radicals on purine and pyridines which can then lead to mutations. Since the body does not produce vitamins, it is necessary for us to get the intake from vegetables and fruits.

8 illus, 1 table, 131 ref

010182   Sahota P;Jairath S;Pandove G;Krishan M (Microbiology Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana-141 004, Email: rashi_jairath@rediffmail.com) : Emerging food borne pathogen. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(4), 921-6.

Emerging, re-emerging or drug resistant infections are zoonotic and have recently appeared in a population; have extended to new vehicles of transmission; have started to increase rapidly, in incidence or geographic range; have various causes (e.g. ecological, environmental, food production or demographic factors); and have been widespread for many years but only recently identified because of new or increased knowledge or methods of identification and analysis of the disease agent. The broad spectrum of foodborne infections has changed dramatically over time, as well-established pathogens have been controlled or eliminated, and new ones have emerged. Emergence is due to increased susceptibility to infectious diseases, antimicrobial resistance, immunocompromised host, marked changes in dietary habits, genetic variation in microorganisms and the recognition of chronic sequelae of foodborne infections. Emerging pathogens include E. coli O157:H7, Shigella, Salmonella, Campylobacter, Clostridium botulinum, Listeria monocytogenes, Yersinia enterocolitica and Vibrio vulnificus. E. coli O157:H7 qualifies to be the most serious zoonotic known foodborne pathogen due to its low infectious dose and release of Shiga toxin (Stx). This paper reviews a thorough understanding of emerging foodborne pathogens and risk associated with them and thus necessitates the need to raise public awareness to control foodborne pathogens.

^iia34 ref

010181   Rautary S S;Sarkar P D (NO, , Sr. MIG-25 Vivekanand Nagar, Bhopal-462 038, Email: sushree_rautaray@yahoo.com ) : Relationship between inflammation and oxidative stress in ischaemic stroke patients. Flora Fauna 2008, 14(2), 371-4.

Sixty age and sex matched control and 60 patients of ischaemic stroke were taken. Serum hs-CRP level was measured by immunoturbidometric assay. Plasma oxidant malondialdehyde was measured by thiobarbituric acid method and plasma anti oxidant superoxide dismutase spectrophotometrically. In this study we compared the levels of inflammatory marker between stroke cases and controls and assessed which oxidant and antioxidant was associated with levels of inflammatory marker and oxidative stress among cases and controls. Ischaemic stroke patients had lower levels of superoxide dismutase and higher levels of malondialdehyde than controls. Results indicated the presence of inflammatory response associated with stroke.

7 tables, 16 ref

010180   Ramchander R;Prasad M S K;Girisham S;Reddy S M (Biochemistry and Microbiology Dep, Kakatiya Univ, Warangal-506 009, Email: sivasrigirisham@yahoo.co.in) : Effect of trace Elements on growth of two anoxygenic phototrophic bacteria. Ecol Envir Conserv 2008, 14(2-3), 367-9.

Two anoxygenic phototrophic bacteria Rb.capsulatus and Rps.acidophila, isolated from leather industrial effluents were studied for the effect of trace elements on the growth. Rb.capsulatus was less dependent on zinc when compared to Rps.acidophila preferred higher concentrations of nickel when compared to Rb.capsulatus. Copper, borate and manganese requirement was the same for both the bacteria under investigation. The biomass production decreased both with the decrease or increase of copper concentration. Both the bacteria could achieve considerable growth even in the absence of cobalt and molybdate.

1 table, 8 ref

010179   Ramaswamy K (Food Protectants and Infestation Control Dep, Central Food Technological Research Institute, Mysore-570 020, Email: rama60swamy@yahoo.co.in) : Individual and combined effect of thymol carvacrol and D.hamiltonii root extract on the growth of A. parasiticum and F. moniliforme. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(4), 867-72.

In vitro antifungal activity was carried out using two essential oils and a root extract of D. hamiltonii in comparison with standard fungicide carbendazim (CBZ). Of the three methods tested, broth dilution and agar diffusion assays have shown greater inhibitory action than volatility assay. A.pamsiticus is more sensitive than F.moniliforme. Individual treatment with 300ppm of D.hamiltonii root extract and combined treatment of thymol and carvacrol has resulted 100% reduction in dry weight, which was comparable to fungicide standard. The results obtained here indicate that root extract of D.hamiltonii could provide potential alternative to chemical/or synthetic fungicides and plant essential oils in inhibiting toxigenic fungi. However, no additive or synergistic activity was noticed when plant root extract was combined either with thymol or carvacrol.

3 tables, 22 ref

010178   Ramasamy P K;Jeyaraaj R;Jeyaraaj I A;Sridevi S (Zoology Dep, Kongunadu Arts and Science College, Coimbatore-641 029, Email: kadur_rama@yahoo.co.in) : Antimicrobial activity in the coelomic fluid of the earth worm Eudrilus eugeniae. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(4), 927-9.

The coelomic fluid of the earthworm, Eudrilus eugeniae, was extracted and tested for its antibacterial activity. It was tested against two gram-negative strains bacteria namely of Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae and two gram-positive strains of Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus mesaterium. The coelomic fluid of E. eugeniae showed the maximum antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus among all the bacterial strain tested.

3 illus, 2 tables, 8 ref

010177   Punya Kumari B;Gupta B R;Rajasekhar Reddy A; Gnana Prakash M;Sudhakar Reddy K (Animal Genetics and Breeding Dep, College of Veterinary Science, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad-500 030) : Genetic and non-genetic factors affecting the carcass characteristics of Japanese quails (Coturnix coturnix Japonica). Indian J Anim Res 2008, 42(4), 248-52.

Data on 164 Japanese quails were utilized to study the effect of strains, hatches and sex of chicks on pie-slaughter weight and weights of carcass after bleeding, dressed carcass, eviscerated carcass, inedible and edible offals and various carcass cuts. The Black strain was superior to Brown for all the characters except the breast weight. Significant hatch effect was observed for the pre-slaughter weight, dressed weight, eviscerated carcass, inedible offals, heart and gizzard. The sexual dimorphism was net evident for any of the characters studied, except pre-slaughter weight. Majority of the carcass traits were medium to highly heritable.

2 tables, 16 ref

010176   Pradeep P;Reddy O V S (Biochemistry Dep, Sri Venkateswara Univ, Tirupati-517 502, Email: ovsreddy@yahoo.com) : Effect of supplementation of malted cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) flour in the enhancement of yeast cell viability and ethanol production in VHG fermentation. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(4), 767-72.

Production of high ethanol concentration by using very high gravity fermentation technology eliminates the expensive steps in the conventional ethanol fermentation process and saves time. In the present study, a final ethanol concentration was enhanced to 15% (v/v) within 48 h by adding malted cow pea (Vigna unguiculata L) flour (2-4% w/v) to a simple medium with very high concentration of 300 g/L of glucose. The supplementation has simultaneously led to an increase in the rate and extent of growth of Saccharomyces bayanus resulted in higher productivity (> g/L/h). Physical and chemical factors of malted cowpea may help to reduce the osmotic stress, and aid in complete fermentation towards achieving enhanced ethanol yield.

4 illus, 2 tables, 24 ref

010175   Parmar P S;Deshpande A R;Musaddiq M (P.G. Dep of Microbiology, Shri Shivaji College, Akola, Maharashtra) : Antimicrobial activity of 'karakatshringi' a crude Indian ayurvedic product. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(4), 821-3.

'Karkatshringi' is a plant based product which has medicinal importance in Ayurveda. Antibacterial and antifungal activities of this crude ayurvedic drug were tested in the present study. Extracts of Karkatshringi powder were prepared in acetone, 90% methanol, petroleum ether and water. These extracts were tested for the antibacterial activity against standard cultures of Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus cereus, Proteus vul garis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Salmonella typhimurium. Acetone, methanol and aqueous extracts exhibited activity against S. aureus, B. cereus, B. subtilis and P. vulgaris. Acetone and aqueous extracts were also active against Salmonella typhimurium. The extracts were tested for the presence of antifungal activity against Candida albicans, Cryptococcus neoformans and Fusarium oxysporum. Acetone and 90% methanol extracts showed activity against Cryptococcus neoformans and Fusarium oxysporum.

2 tables, 15 ref

010174   Nethaji S;Thajuddin N;Manoharan C (Botany and Microbiology Dep, A.V.V.M Sri Pushpam College, Poondi, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, Email: nethaji29@gmail.com) : Anti-ulcer effect of Coldenia procumbens L. against gastric ulcer. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(4), 817-20.

The ethanolic extract of Coldenia procumbens leaf and root were evaluated for its anti-ulcer activity against pylorus ligation induced gastric ulcer (antisecretory) in albino rats. We found that C. procumbens extract at a dose of 100 mg/kg p.o. markedly decrease the incidence of ulcers. Both leaf and root extracts of C. procumbens showed significant reduction in gastric volume, free and total acidity and ulcer index. The plant extracts possess significant gastro protective activity as compared with standard drug.

1 table, 21 ref

010173   Naveen Prasad R;Viswanathan S;Renuka Devi J; Nayak V;Parathasarathy N;Rajkumar J (Biotechnology Dep, Rajalakshmi Engineering College, Chennai-602 105, Email: rnaveenprasad@gmail.com) : Evaluation of anti microbial activity of Samanea saman leaves. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(4), 855-8.

Antimicrobial activity of aqueous extract of Samanea saman was investigated by Disc-Diffusion method against three organisms' viz., Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans. Penicillin, Streptomycin and Chloramphenicol were used as controls. The growth of all the organisms was found to be inhibited by the plant extract. The inhibition was found to be concentration dependent. 10mg/mL concentration inhibited E.coli and C. albicans while 25mg/mL was necessary to show inhibition against S. aureus. A chi-square test was performed on the data and a level of 10% significance was obtained. This study shows that the extract has an antimicrobial activity as that of the commercial antibiotics. Thus the plant can be used as a remedy for the tested pathogenic infections.

4 illus, 4 tables, 22 ref

010172   Nathanael P J R;Vardhani V V (Zoology Dep, Acharya Nagarjuna Univ, Nagarjuna Nagar-522 510, Email: vadlamudi_vv@yahoo.co.in) : Pathogenesis of experimental aflatoxicosis on protein and DNA content of liver in broilers. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(4), 839-41.

In recent years, Aspergillus species, particularly Aspergillus flavus, has been increasingly recognized in infections and hypersensitivity diseases in man and broilers. The clinical symptoms of these diseases are dependent upon the immunological status of the subject. Few reports are available in the literature on the pathogenicity of Aspergillus species to different laboratory animals such as mice, rats, rabbits and broilers. The present study was designed to study the protein and DNA content in the liver of broilers infected with aflatoxin B1 (AFB1). Four groups, (A, B, C and D) of broilers were infected with various doses of AFB1 orally. Animals were sacrificed at 1, 3, 8 and 11 days of infection and their organs (liver) were removed. The organs were weighed, homogenized and tissue samples were used for the estimation of proteins and DNA. The result clearly demonstrates that aflatoxicosis is able to induce varied changes in the content of proteins and DNA (in liver) in all the experimental groups of broilers though out the infection period.

2 tables, 10 ref

010171   Nandlal Singh;Dixit V K;Savita K K (Institute of Pharmacy, Bundelkhand Univ, Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh) : Antifungal activity of leaf extracts of Trigonella foenum graecum (Linn.). Flora Fauna 2008, 14(2), 324-6.

A study was conducted on the antifungal activity of Trigonella foenum graecum leaves (Linn.) for alcoholic, hydroalcohalic and aqueous extracts. Aqueous extract showed maximum antifungal activity when compared with Ketoconazol in cylinder plate (cup Plate) method.

1 illus, 1 table, 12 ref

010170   Mukesh Kumar;Bansal M;Bansal R K (NO, Surat Municipal Institute of Medical Education & Research, Surat-395 010) : Morbidity profile of the aged in Surat city. Indian J Gerontol 2008, 22(1), 73-84.

This study explores the morbidity profile among 68 residents of four old age homes run in Surat city through interview technique. Unwillingness of family members to take care of the elderly emerges as the main reason of their stay at these homes. The person prevalence of diagnosed physical ailments was 80.9% with an average prevalence of 1.3. The study also describes their complaints and feelings relating to mental health and the perceived wishes of the respondents. The study discusses their patterns of seeking of internal and external medical care and the hindrances that resulted into unmet health needs. The study gives appropriate recommendations for the appropriate health care provision of the elderly.

3 tables, 19 ref

010169   Mallikarjuna K;Nishanth K;Bhaskar Reddy T; Sathyavelu Reddy K (Div of Exercise Physiology, Zoology Dep, Sri Venkateswara Univ, Tirupati-517 502) : Alterations of intra extra mitochondrial enzyme in the muscle fibers of rat hind limbs: role of exercise training under age induced oxidatives stress conditions. Indian J Gerontol 2008, 22(1), 1-13.

Advancing age is associated with decline in physiological functions and cause oxidative stress. It is well documented that physical exercise training enhances the capacity to resist oxidative stress and is useful at every stage of life. Keeping in view of this, the study was under taken to investigate the effect of endurance exercise training on the status of selected metabolic enzymes in aging rat skeletal muscle fibers. Wistar male albino rats of two different age groups i.e., young (3 months) and old/ moderately aged (18 months) were divided in to two groups; sedentary control (SC) and exercise trained (ExT). Metabolic enzymes glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G-6-PDH), sitccinate dehydrogenase (SDH) and malate dehydrogenase (MDH) estimated in the hind limb muscle fibers of soleus (SOL), red gastrocnemius (RG) and white gastrocnemius WG) were decreased with advancement of age in all the muscle fibers; whereas, these enzymes were found to be significantly (p<0.01) elevated in both the exercise trained groups. The decreased metabolic enzymes in old rats are indicative of low mitochondrial performance caused due to high levels of ROS during aging. Induction of the enzymes with exercise training was more in oxidative soleus muscles of young and old rats than the glycolytic muscle fibers. It is envisaged that regular exercise training may enhance the metabolic enzyme activities and play a vital role in maintaining the mitochondrial functions at active state even in old animals.

3 tables, 31 ref

010168   Liu Y;Liu C;Di X (Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical Univ, Shenyang 110016, P.R. China, Email: dixin63@hotmail.com) : Comparison of radiolabeling methods based on liquid chromatography combined with radioactivity detection and protein precipitation for pharmacokinetic study of <. Asian Chem Lett 2008, 12(1-2), 71-6.

Two radiolabeling methods based on liquid chromatography combined with radioactivity detection and protein precipitation were developed and validated for the determination of ¹²⁵I-C-1027 in mouse serum to support pharmacokinetic study during preclinical development. ¹²⁵I-C-1027 was prepared by Iodogen method. Serum samples were precipitated with 20% trichloroacetic acid (TCA) and the precipitate was used for radioactivity determination (TCA radioactivity method), or serum samples were analyzed by size exclusive high performance liquid chromatography (SEC) combined with radioactivity detection (SEC radioactivity method). Statistical analysis revealed significant differences in main pharmacokinetic parameters obtained by these two methods. SEC radioactivity method gave better results than TCA radioactivity method because unchanged ¹²⁵I-C-1027 in mice was determined by the former method and the latter method was interfered by decomposed products of ¹²⁵I-C-1027.

3 illus, 2 tables, 13 ref

010167   Lankeshwar N;Bagde U S (Applied Microbiology Lab, Life Sciences Dep, Mumbai Univ, Vidyanagari, Santacruz (E), Mumbai-400 098, Email: ubagde@hotmail.com) : Mechanism of zinc resistance in Shigella dysenteriae. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(4), 893-7.

In traditional medicine, great emphasis is laid on the process of detoxification of metals and other inorganics. In the process of Shodhana, these purified metals are further processed in various herbal juices and increnated 100 times to get the final product (www.ayurvedas.com). Chinese material medica that was writtern 2735 B.C. contained many plant and metallic preparations and few animal products. Other studies by Chinese and Japanese investigators have shown a role between herbal preparations containing zinc and reduced symptoms of fatigue and related conditions. Increasing environmental concentrations of heavy metals pose a challenge to bacteria. In present investigation possible mechanism of zinc (Zn) resistance in Shigella dysenteriae, was studied. While the growth of sensitive Shigella dysenteriae was completely inhibited at 1mM/mL concentration of zinc, the resistant strain tolerated even 40mM/mL concentration of zinc. Mechanism of resistance was found to be presence of plasmid. Plasmid was analyzed by agarose gel electrophoresis. Plasmid curing was successful with 2-10% Sodium dodesyl sulfate (SDS) treatment. All colonies on plate after SDS treatment were tested for zinc resistance on nutrient agar containing different concentrations of zinc. It was observed that after SDS treatment zinc resistant Shigella dysenteriae cells got converted to zinc sensitive cells.

7 illus, 1 table, 16 ref

010166   Lankeshwar N;Bagde U S (Applied Microbiology Lab, Life Sciences Dep, Mumbai Univ, Vidyanagari, Santacruz (E) Mumbai-400 098, Email: ubagde@hotmail.com) : Mechanism of drug resistance in Staphylococcus aureus. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(4), 829-34.

The emergence of drug resistant bacteria is posing a major problem in antimicrobial therapy. The frequency varies with the organism and the drug used. If treatment with drug kills 99% of the bacteria, the remaining 1% will breed a new generation of germs that will not be affected by the particular drug. They will probably pass that resistance on to bacteria of other species. A possible mechanism of resistance to Ciprofloxacin and Sparfloxacin in Staphylococcus aureus was studied. The growth of sensitive Staphylococfus aureus was completely inhibited at 0.5μg/mL of Ciprofloxacin and 1μg/mL concentration of Sparfloxacin, while the resistant strain tolerated even 5 μg/mL concentration of Ciprofloxacin and 50 μg/mL concentration of Sparfloxacin. Mechanism of resistance was found to be the presence of plasmid. Plasmid was analyzed by agarose gel electrophoresis. Plasmid curing was successful with 10% sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) treatment. All colonies on plate after SDS treatment were tested for drug resistance on nutrient agar containing different concentrations of drugs.

11 illus, 2 tables, 18 ref

010165   Kanani A N;Jain L;Patel T J;Rank D N;Joshi C G;Purohit J H (Collge of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anand Agricultural Univ, Anand-388 001) : Detection of Brucella DNA in semen using the polymerase chain reaction assay. Indian J Anim Res 2008, 42(3), 222-24.

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay was employed for detection of Brucella DNA in semen of cattle and buffalo breeding bulls. A genus specific primer pair which amplified a 223 bp fragment of gene encoding a 31-kDa Brucella abortus antigen was used in assay. Serological test for the diagnosis of Brucella infection was also performed in breeding bulls. The PCR was resulted in more numbers of positive samples as compared to serological test since it detected Brucella DNA in 19 out of 101 semen samples while Brucella antibodies was detected in 10 sera samples of same bulls using EL1SA. The PCR may be used as supplementary test for detection of Brucella infection in bulls.

1 table, 18 ref

010164   Kamble R D;Deshmukh A M (NO, , Dattadarshan Apartment, Flat No.-5, Vikas Chowk, South Shivaji Nagar, Sangli-416 416, Email: rajashri.kamble@yahoo.co.in) : Antimicrobial activity of Ocimum sanctum extracts on common human pathogens. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(4), 873-7.

The invitro antimicrobial activity of Ocimum sanctum leaf and roots extracts were studied against Bacillus subtilis (NCIM 2010), Staphylococcus aureus (NCIM 2602), Escherichia coli (NCIM 2666), Proteus vulgaris (NCIM 2027) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (NCIM 2082). The methanol, ethanol and chloroform extracts of Ocimum sanctum showed high activity as compared to aqueous extracts against all the tested bacteria. These results were compared with the zones of inhibition produced by commercially available standard antibiotics. The inhibitory effects of extracts are very close and identical in magnitude and are comparable with the standard antibiotics used.

2 illus, 5 tables, 30 ref

010163   Jain A;Varma M;Agrawal B K (Biochemistry Dep, People's College of Medical Sciences and Research Centre, By-Pass Road, Bhanpur, Bhopal-462 010, Email: anushokjain@yahoo.co.in) : Altered total antioxidant capacity and increased lipid peroxidation in protein energy malnutrition.. Flora Fauna 2008, 14(2), 367-70.

The aim of this study was to evaluate oxidant/antioxidant status in children with Protein Energy Malnutrition. Serum Total antioxidant capacity and Malondialdehyde were measured spectrophotometrically in 200 children (6 months to 5 years), out of these 100 children were malnourished and 100 children served as controls. Total Antioxidant capacity was found significantly lowered in malnourished children (Grade I = 1.45 mmol/L, Grade II = 1.23 mmol/L, Grade III and IV = 0.98 mmol/L) as compared to 2.00 mmol/L in control group (p<0.001). The Malondialdehyde concentration in malnourished children was significantly higher (p<0.001), (Grade I = 1.60 nmol/mL, Grade II = 1.80 nmol/mL, Grade III and IV = 2.56 nmol/ mL) as compared to 1.45 nmol/mL in controls. The significant increase in serum Malondialdehyde concentration associated with the decrease in serum Total antioxidant capacity in malnourished children suggest that these children were potentially susceptible to high oxidative stress.

1 table, 13 ref

010162   Ilamathi M;Mahalakshmi T;Sridharan T B (School of Biotechnology, Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore-632 014, Email: tbsridhar@yahoo.com) : Effect of chromium on microbial growth. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(4), 759-64.

This study is primarily conducted in order to determine the tolerance level of microbes to chromium ions. Here a prokaryotic organism (E. coli) as well as a eukaryotic microorganism (Saccharomyces cereviceae) has been taken for the study. When chromium concentration increases, a significant reduction in the growth of microbial populations has been observed in E. coli. These E. coli populations were under high fluctuation where as in S. cereviceae significant level of tolerance to chromium has been observed. Chromium concentration of 3 to 4 fold higher is required to inhibit the growth of the S. cereviceae than E. coli. The study indicates that the chromium tolerance level in eukaryotes is several fold higher when compared to prokaryotes.

4 illus, 2 tables, 15 ref

010161   Ekambaram P;Munuswamy U R;Srinivasan L (P.G. & Research Dep of Biochemistry, Bharathi Women's College, Chennai-600 108, Email: dstpadmini@rediffmail.com) : Effect of mint and tea infusions on the antioxidant capacity of preeclamptic endothelial cells. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(4), 903-9.

Antioxidant defenses appear to be depleted during preeclampsia due to oxidative stress. Various alternative medicines are employed to increase the endogenous antioxidant level. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of mint and tea infusions on the antioxidant capacity of endothelial cells prepared from placenta of preeclamptic and normotensive pregnant women. The lipid peroxidation end product malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), activities of the enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase and the glutathione redox ratio (GRR) were measured in the endothelial cells before and after incubation with tea, mint and tea enriched with mint extracts. LPO levels were increased; SOD and catalase activities, GRR and TAG levels were decreased significantly in preeclamptic condition. However, the condition reverted with a decrease in LPO levels and increase in antioxidant enzymes activities, GRR and TAG upon incubation of endothelial cells with tea, mint and mint tea extracts. Study results suggest the protective effect of plant extracts against oxidative stress. Since treatment of the disease like preeclampsia with modern medicine is often associated with serious side effects that affect both mother and fetus, antioxidant potential rich mint tea extracts can be recommended as an alternative herbal remedy for such patients.

1 illus, 4 tables, 34 ref

010160   Dash G;Udgata S K;Parida S K (Fishery Pathology and Microbiology Dep, West Bengal Univ of Animal and Fishery Sciences, Kolkata-700 094) : Helminth zoonotic parasites of carps in fresh water culture systems of West Bengal. Indian J Anim Res 2008, 42(3), 216-18.

Although helminthic infection was quite common in Indian Major Carps, only a very few parasites among them are having Zoonotic potentiality. Only three Zoonotic strains Heterophys sp, Chlonorchis sp and Capillaria sp were identified from Indian Major Carps during the research work. These Zoonotic strains in particular regions were quite low as compared to other helminth sps. Catla catla were found to be more susceptible than Labeo rohita and Cirrihinus mrigala. Nematode infection was observed more in small size groups of fishes mainly in rainy season where as the prevalence of trematodes was more during summer in small size fishes also.

3 illus, 14 ref

010159   Chakrabarti P (NO, Socio-economic Research Institute, Mohana, Flat No. 7, 5 New Raipur, Garia, Kolkata-700 084) : Case study of productive ageing among the rural women. Indian J Gerontol 2008, 22(1), 62-72.

It is usually held that ageing for women in rural areas brings with it insecurity and utmost dependency. Gerontological literature replete with the evidence that elderly women are the most vulnerable group among the aged. More often than not they are subject to different kinds of elder abuse mainly because of their relatively less involvement in-productive process. This seems to be an erroneous notion for, it is widely known that women never retire. In rural areas they are regarded as an asset to the family as a productive group. This paper makes a case study of some elderly women belonging to several villages of the districts of 24 Parganas(s), Hooghly, Howrah and Purulia in West Bengal to examine the role these women play in productive processes in their respective households and society. The study further examines the variation, if any, in the nature of involvement in productive activities by age and seeks to find out the reasons behind differential participations. The study revealed that ageing for many a rural woman is neither a curse nor a blessing. It hardly frightens them for, some women earnestly desire to undertake role reversal. They are not a liability to the family but certainly a human assets who also help ushering social change.

5 ref

010158   Basu S;Das P K (NO, , Research Fellow, The Asiatic Society, Kolkata-700 016) : Socio-economic and health implications of population ageing in India. Indian J Gerontol 2008, 22(1), 85-106.

Population ageing is one of the major challenges of the 21st century. This demographic shift has immensely affected the social fabric, cultural values and economic structure of the society to a great extent. India being an important member of the developing countries will have to bear its share more in the coming decades. This backdrop gives an immense scope to study socio-economic and health implications of population ageing in this context. The paper makes an attempt to examine (i) demographic, (ii) health and (iii) psycho-social implications of population ageing in the Indian context. It also raises some important policy issues, which will create newer problems to the aged during the immediate as well as in distant future. Finally it has been found that the ageing process has been influenced by the socio-economic development of the society. So, if we are late in thinking about socio-economic implications of population ageing, there will be more issues and questions than answers. It is proper time to seek appropriate and positive solutions to meet the challenges of ageing for the next millennium.

17 tables, 24 ref

010157   Bajpai K G;Gupta R;Johri S;Saxena A M (Zoology Dep, Lucknow Univ, Lucknow-226 007, Email: anandmsaxena@rediffmail.com) : Blood sugar lowering activity of Allium cepa Linn and Ocimum sanctum Linn in normal experimental rats. Flora Fauna 2008, 14(2), 283-6.

A study on blood sugar lowering efficacy of plant Allium cepa Linn and Ocimum sanctum Linn was carried out, using three different experimental models of normal male albino rats. The ethanolic (95%) extracts of Allium cepa bulb and Ocimum sanctum leaves, when administered individually at a single dose of 250mg/kg body weight, orally, both extracts significantly lowered blood sugar level of fasted and fed male albino rats. The ethanolic extract of Allium cepa also depressed the peak value significantly in the glucose loaded model. Both extracts were found to produce no sign of toxicity at a dose of 250mg/kg, b.w., orally.

2 illus, 2 tables, 10 ref

010156   Arora J S;Saxena M K;Rao V D P (College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, G.B. Pant Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand-263 145) : Strain differentiation of Salmonella isolates of poultry by AP-PCR. Indian J Anim Res 2008, 42(4), 267-9.

Several PCR based methods such as AP-PCR, ERIC, ERIC-PCR, REP-PCR and RAPD have been used for bacterial strain differentiation and identification. These methods are reliable, rapid and economical. In the present study, out of 30 poultry isolates of Salmonella differentiated by AP-PCR, 25 profiles were obtained. The study indicates that AP-PCR is an efficient tool for strain differentiation and can he used for molecular epidemiological studies.

1 table, 9 ref

010155   Ananda Chitra M;Ram G C (Central Univ Laboratory, Centre for Animal Health Studies, Madhavaram Milk Colony, Chennai-600 051, Email: aanandhis@yahoo.com) : Effect of dexamethasone on the caprine antigen presenting cells function. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(4), 943-7.

Functional efficiency of caprine macrophages and B cells, and the effect of dexamethasone on their function were studied in the present investigation. Macrophages induced more proliferation in unprimed animals whereas B cells stimulated significantly (p<0.01) increased proliferation of T cells in sensitized animals, indicating the specific and memory response, characteristics of adaptive immune system. S.aureus induced more proliferation followed by M.paratuberculosis and tetanus toxoid. Autologous macrophages and B cells were used as target cells to assess the cytotoxicity by MTT colorimetric method. M. paratuberculosis primed macrophages and B cells were subjected to cytotoxicity more than S.aureus and TT primed macrophages and B cells. Dexamethasone did not influence on the antigen presentation and cytotoxicity function of caprine macrophages and B cells. Caprines may be considered as corticosteroid resistant species.

2 tables, 21 ref

010154   Ananda Chitra M;Ram G C (Central Univ Lab, Centre for Animal Health Studies, Madhavaram Milk Colony, Chennai-600 051, Email: aanandhis@yahoo.com) : Efficiency of caprine macrophages and B cells in the generation of cytotoxic T lymphocytes. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(4), 879-82.

Cytotoxic T lymphocytes activity in culture containing caprine macrophages(MΦ) and B cells were assessed in this study. Antigen pulsed autologous macrophages and B cells were used as target cells and cytotoxicity was assessed by MTT colorimetric assay, fluorescentdyemix and DNA quantitation assays for apoptosis. M. paratuberculosis pulsed MO and B cells were subjected to higher cytotoxicity than S.aureus or tetanus toxoid (TT) pulsed with MO and B cells. Cytolytic activity against S.aureus pulsed MΦwas greater than S. aureus pulsed B cells. Macrophages showed higher cytotoxicity in the antigen pulsed culture than B cells culture. Cytotoxicity against TT primed culture was lesser than against particulate antigen primed culture. This may be due to the effect of alum adjuvant used to sensitize the goat with TT.

2 tables, 10 ref

010153   Ananda Chitra M;Ram G C (Central Univ Lab, Centre for Animal Health Studies, Madhavaram Milk Colony, Chennai-600 051, Email: aanandhis@yahoo.com) : Phagocytic activation of a luminol- dependent chemiluminescence in caprine macrophages and B cells. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(4), 797-800.

The quantitative luminol-dependent chemiluminescence (LDCL) assay was used to assess the endocytic capacity of caprine MΦ and B cells, using various stimuli. MO was potent producer of oxidative burst to all stimuli and B cells had weak endocytic capacity. Zymosan induced greater LDCL response followed by M.paratuberculosis, S.aureus and SRBC. Antigen presenting cells generated LDCL response was greater to live organisms than killed organisms. M. paratuberculosis induced LDCL more potently than S.aureus. Colchicine caused a statistically significant (p<0.05) inhibition of endocytosis but it did not completely abrogate the endocytic process.

13 ref

010152   ADISA Ademola Lateef (Sociology and Anthropology Dep, Obafemi Awolowo Univ, Ile-Ife Osun State, Nigeria) : Future implications of the dwindling culture of vertical support for retirees in southwestern Nigeria. Indian J Gerontol 2008, 22(1), 43-52.

This study examined, working with the philosophy of care among the Yoruba people of Southwestern Nigeria, the extent of care from the desired source(s) by 954 retirees in the said location between October 2005 and March 2006. Since the study was both reactionary and retroactive in nature, it did not limit focus to the immediate problems of care for the retirees but extended concern to possible accompanying problems of inadequate care of the retirees by children in the future. The study concluded that parochial but macro and Europocentric nature of past studies account for the persistence of retirees' problem in Nigeria.

1 table, 10 ref

009051   Zlojutro M;Larissa Tarskaia A;Sorensen M; Snodgrass J J;Leonard W R;Crawford M H (Anthropology Dep, Kansas Univ, Lawrence, Kansas 66045, USA) : Origins of the yakut people: evidence from mithochondrial DNA diversity. Int J Hum Genet 2008, 8(1-2), 119-30.

The Yakuts are a Turkic-speaking population of northeastern Siberia and based on archaeological and ethnohistorical evidence are believed to have originated from Turkic populations in south Siberia. To investigate this model, the HVS-I of the mitochondrial DNA control region was sequenced for 144 Yakut individuals representing seven communities from central Yakutia and compared to HVS-I data for other Asian populations. Haplogroups C and D comprise 75.7% of the Yakut sample, with only 9.7% assigned to west Eurasian lineages. The Ewens-Watterson homozygosity test revealed a significant deviation (P = 0.045) in the observed frequencies of common haplotypes relative to the expected values, indicating the genetic effects of a founder event. This is supported by a fragmented MJ network dominated by high-frequency haplotypes within haplogroups C and D. Nested cladistic analysis identified subhaplogroup D5a as the product of a long distance colonization event and potential founder lineage for the Yakuts, dating to approximately 1,630 years BP. SAMOVA analyses and MDS plot of genetic distances show close genetic affinities between the Yakuts and south Siberian populations, and thus affirming the south origin model.

6 illus, 3 tables, 57 ref

009050   Zhao J Q;Wen Y F;Bhadauria M;Nirala S K; Sharma A;Shrivastava S;Shukla S;Agrawal O P;Mathur R (College of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650 201, PR China) : Protective effects of propolis on inorganic mercury induced oxidative stress in mice. Indian J expl Biol 2009, 47(4), 264-9.

Protective potential of propolis was evaluated against mercury induced oxidative stress and antioxidant enzymatic alterations in mice liver. Exposure to mercuric chloride (HgCl₂; 5 mg/kg; ip) induced oxidative stress by increasing lipid peroxidation and oxidized glutathione level along with concomitant decrease in glutathione and various antioxidant enzymes. Mercury intoxication deviated the activity of liver marker enzymes in serum. Conjoint treatment of propolis (200 mg/kg; po) inhibited lipid peroxidation and oxidized glutathione level, whereas increased glutathione level. Activities of antioxidants enzymes i.e., superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione-S-transferase and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase were also restored concomitantly towards control after propolis administration. Release of serum transaminases, alkaline phosphatase, lactate dehydrogenase and ?-glutamyl transpeptidase were significantly restored towards control after propolis treatment. Results suggest that propolis augments the antioxidants defense against mercury induced toxicity and provides evidence that it has therapeutic potential as hepatoprotective agent.

009049   Yakubu M T;Afolayan A J (Centre for Phytomedicine Research, Botany Dep, University of Fort Hare, Alice 5700, South Africa) : Effect of aqueous extract of Bulbine natalensis Baker stem on haematological and serum lipid profile of male Wistar rats. Indian J expl Biol 2009, 47(4), 283-8.

Bulbine natalensis stem extract (25, 50 and 100 mg/kg body weight for 14 days) did not significantly alter the red blood cell count, haemoglobin, packed cell volume, mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular haemoglobin, mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration and red cell distribution width in male Wistar rats. In contrast, the white blood cell count increased by the end of the experimental period. While the levels of neutrophils, lymphocytes and eosinophils decreased after the administration of single dose of the extract (day 1), those of the platelets and monocytes increased. The extract also reduced the levels of basophils and large unstained cells after the seven daily doses. All the doses increased the serum concentrations of cholesterol and triacylglycerols. Whereas the serum concentration of low-density lipoprotein was unaffected throughout the experimental period, the decrease in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol was accompanied by increase in the atherogenic index. The results showed that aqueous extract of B. natalensis stem exhibited localized systemic toxicity mainly on the white blood cell count and related indices. The alterations in the serum lipid profile may predispose the animals to atherosclerosis especially when consumed repeatedly for two weeks.

009048   Walia G K;Mukhopadhyay R;Saraswathy K N;Puri M;Chahal S M S (Human Biology Dep, Punjab Univ, Patiala, Punjab) : Immuno-molecular etiology of recurrent pregnancy loss and the anthropological perspective. Int J Hum Genet 2008, 8(1-2), 227-35.

It is a well-known fact that pro-inflammatory cytokines exert an adverse effect on conceptus and result in pregnancy failure and there are mutations reported in certain genes regulating the production of these Th-1 type cytokines. In view of the cytokine gene polymorphisms known to cause high and low production of various pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines, a number of studies have been performed to reveal the association between these polymorphisms and recurrent pregnancy loss, but surprisingly contradictory results are reported which may be attributed to inclusion of heterogeneous samples resulting in false positive or false negative results. An attempt has been made to review the previous studies of association between two molecular genetic markers, TNF-α (-308 G/A) and IFN- γ (+874 A/T), and recurrent pregnancy loss.

3 illus, 57 ref

009047   Wakade A S;Shah A S;Kulkarni M P;Juvekar A R (Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology Dep, Mumbai Univ Institute of Chemical Technology, Nathalal Parikh Marg, Matunga, Mumbai-400 019, Email: arj@udct.org) : Protective effect of Piper longum L. on oxidative stress induced injury and cellular abnormality in adriamycin induced cardiotoxicity in rats. Indian J expl Biol 2008, 46(7), 528-33.

Effect of methanolic extract of fruits of P. longum (PLM) on the biochemical changes, tissue peroxidative damage and abnormal antioxidant levels in adriamycin (ADR) induced cardiotoxicity in Wistar rats was investigated. PLM was administered to Wistar albino rats in two different doses, by gastric gavage (250mg/kg and 500mg/kg) for 21 days followed by ip ADR (15 mg/kg) on 21st day. ADR administration showed significant decrease in the activities of marker enzymes aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, lactate dehydrogenase and creatine kinase in heart with a concomitant increase in their activities in serum. A significant increase in lipid peroxide levels in heart of ADR treated rats was also observed. Pretreatment with PLM ameliorated the effect of ADR on lipid peroxide formation and restored activities of marker enzymes. Activities of myocardial antioxidant enzymes like catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase along with reduced glutathione were significantly lowered due to cardiotoxicity in rats administered with ADR. PLM pretreatment augmented these endogenous antioxidants. Histopathological studies of heart revealed degenerative changes and cellular infiltrations in rats administered with ADR and pretreatment with PLM reduced the intensity of such lesions. The results indicate that PLM administration offers significant protection against ADR induced oxidative stress and reduces the cardiotoxicity by virtue of its antioxidant activity.

1 illus, 2 tables, 39 ref

009046   Vikrant Kumar;Reddy A N S;Pradeep Babu;Rao Nageswar T,;Reddy A G;Lalji Singh;Mohan Reddy B (Molecular Anthropology Group, Biological Anthropology Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Hyderabad-500 007, Email: bmrisi@gmail.com) : Molecular genetic study on the status of transitional group of central India: cultural diffusion or demic diffusion?. Int J Hum Genet 2008, 8(1-2), 31-9.

Two different models of diffusion - demic and cultural - have been proposed as an explanation for the spread of languages. Recent studies have shown that in some cases the dispersal of the language was due to the demic diffusion while for others it is purely due to the process of acculturation. There are four major linguistic families in India which have largely their own geographic domain. However, there are a few situations in which the populations affiliated to different linguistic families cohabit. For example, we find the spread of the Indo-European and Dravidian tribal populations in the core/peripheral areas of the Mundari Austro-Asiatic groups. These non-Mundari groups have been termed as transitional populations to indicate that these populations originally were probably Mundaris. However, there has been no attempt to ascertain if these populations are genetically Austro-Asiatics or do they belong to the linguistic groups that they are currently affiliated to. To examine this we have analysed Y-SNPs and STRs data of the 13 Mundari and 7 transitional groups and compared with the other populations of relevant linguistic groups. The results suggest that the Indo-European transitional groups are genetically Mundari and have acquired the present language through the process of cultural diffusion, while in the case of Dravidian transitional groups, the spread of language seems to be due to the process of both, the demic and cultural diffusion.

5 illus, 4 tables, 29 ref

009045   Veerraju P;Demarchi D A;Lakshmi N;Rao Venkateshwara T (Human Genetics Dep, Andhra Univ, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, Email: pvraju@rediffmail.com) : Insertion/deletion polymorphisms in Indian tribal populations. Int J Hum Genet 2008, 8(1-2), 75-83.

Five Alu markers (Alu APO, PV 92, TPA 25, D1 and ACE) were studied in five tribal populations namely, Konda Reddi, Koya Dora and Konda Kammara of East Godavari district, Lambada and Chenchu of Mahaboobnagar district of Andhra Pradesh. All the five loci were found to be highly polymorphic. While the lowest heterozygosity was observed in the Chenchu the Lambadi shows the highest. Both Neighbour Joining tree and Principal Component analysis based on genetic distances suggest two broad clusters, one formed by the Lambada and Chenchu and the other by the Konda Reddi and Koya Dora with Konda Kammara as an outer element to this three-point cluster. Another cluster analysis carried out along with 19 other Indian populations brings out no distinct cluster of the 5 AP tribes; instead these AP tribal populations are integrated into different subclusters of the UP and Bengal suggesting lack of distinct genetic identity of these AP tribes as far as the few Alu markers are concerned.

7 illus, 4 tables, 24 ref

009044   Utra S;Raman R;Mukesh B N;Rani Padmaja Kumari;Sharma T;Mecarty C A;Kumaramanickavel G (NO, , Medical and Vision Research Foundations, Sankara Nethralaya, 18, College Road, Chennai-600 006, Email: gkumarmvel@rediffmail.com) : Genetics of diabetic retinopathy. Int J Hum Genet 2008, 8(1-2), 155-9.

Diabetic retinopathy (DR), a microvascular complication of diabetes in the retina, is one of the leading causes of adult blindness worldwide. Complex interplay of environmental and genetic factors has been known to contribute to its pathology. Variations in several genes have been found to be associated with risk for developing DR in different populations worldwide, which is discussed in this article. Identification of genetic variations underlining the disease would immensely lead to recognition of presymptomatic diabetic individuals susceptible to develop DR and help in planning appropriate clinical management and genetic counseling of patients.

32 ref

009043   Usha A;Deep;Pushpa Devi (Microbiology Dep, Govt. Medical College, Amritsar, Punjab) : Entrobacter species - flourish at the turn of century. JK Sci 2007, 9(1), 54.

5 ref