008316   Srivastava A K (Physical Education, Delhi College of Engineering, Delhi) : Ideal body weight prediction. Scient J Sports Exercise 2007, 3(2), 27-34.

Study was to verify the Koka Formula. A total of 4008 subjects were included in the study. The subjects were divided into three groups: 18 years, 18 - 25 years, 25 - 35 years. The Body Weight of all the subjects was recorded. Height, Chest girth and abdomen girth were also measured and recorded.

4 table

008315   Shetty A U;Singh M K;Bakhitar Choudhary S (Hyderabad Spine Clinics, , Hyderabad) : Motivating obeses school children: an approach to exercise and fitness. Scient J Sports Exercise 2007, 3(2), 20-3.

Incidence of obesity is increasing among children. Participation in exercise and organised games has greatly reduced over the years leading to sedentary habit and poor fitness. Questionnaire with detail of child participation in physical activities and othe lifestyle factors was circulated to 600 parents. Obese children were encouraged to participate in sports activities various psychosocial factor responsible for obesity were analyzed to understand the problem. Observation during this effort revealed (a) lack of interest of physical activities by parents; (b) obese children felt shame, ridicule as negative motiation; (c) stress related to education leaving children with no time for activity. Childhood obesity needs multi-disciplinary approach to handle it. Strategies to improve fitness and increasing awareness on longterm health problem related to obesity in children need to be addressed at grass root level.

2 tables, 9 ref

008314   Shasid A;Kaur V (Zoology Dep, Punjabi Univ, Patiala-147 002, Email: shashiuniindia@yahoo.co.in) : Pathology and clinical aspect of autoimmune thyroiditis and non-autoimmune thyroid disease. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(3), 639-44.

Clinicpathological study was carried out in 105 cases of thyroid disorders coming for the treatment in the OPD's of Department of Endocrinology, Government, Rajindra Hospital, Patiala, India. The age range was from 8 to 68 years with maximum number of cases in the age group 20-40 years (50.47%). The peak incidence was in the fourth decade of life (27.61%), 78% were females and 22% were males thereby showing female preponderance in thyroid disorders in present study. The metabolic lesions of thyroidism (80.95%) predominated in the studied population followed by non-neoplastic (16.19%) and neoplastic lesions (2.85%). The pathologies included toxic goiter (4.76%), Hashimoto's thyroiditis (2.85%), Riedel's thyroiditis (1.90%) and thyroid adenoma (2.85%) in female patients. There was histopathological evidence of scalping of colloid, infiltration of chronic inflammatory cells, extensive fibrosis and formation of fibrous capsule, compressed glandular tissue and distorted follicles.

14 illus, 10 ref

008313   Shashi A;Manish Kumar (Zoology Dep, Punjab Univ, Patiala-147 002, Email: shashiuniindia@yahoo.co.in) : Effect of high fluoride ingestion on serum biochemical indices in patients of skeletal fluorosis. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(3), 569-76.

Study was undertaken to evaluate the prevalence of fluorosis and impact of high fluoride ingestion on individuals in three fluoride affected areas of Sangrur District of Punjab state, India. The selected areas have high fluoride in drinking water (2.3 to 22.5 mg/L). 103 patients of skeletal fluorosis and 42 age and sex matched controls were selected for study. Age range of the patients was from 20-80 years with the maximum number of cases in the age group of 20-30 years and 50-60 years. Blood samples were collected and serum was analyzed for various biochemical indexes. The level of total proteins, albumin, globulin, albumin/globulin ratio in the sera of patients of skeletal fluorosis exhibited significant (p<0.001) decrease as compared to control. However, levels of serum creatinine increased in fluorotic patients indicating disturbances in kidney functions. Serum calcium showed significant decrease in its concentration in fluorotic patients while phosphorus and uric acid revealed increased pattern.

8 tables, 32 ref

008312   Shashi A;Kumar M (Zoology Dep, Punjabi Univ, Patiala-147 002, Email: shashiuniindia@yahoo.co.in) : Age specific fluoride exposure in drinking water- a clinical multiparametric study. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(3), 655-60.

Blood samples were collected from 145 subjects including 103 patients of skeletal fluorosis in the age group of 20-80 years from Sangrur District of Punjab, India where the concentration of fluoride in drinking water varies from 2.3 to 22.5 mg/L. The serum was analyzed for cholesterol, low density lipoprotein, high density lipoprotein, triglycerides, glucose and electrolytes and compared with controls. The results showed elevated levels of sodium and potassium ions, which indicate electrolyte imbalance and impairment of kidney function. Serum potassium level exhibited significant rise in all age groups except 20-30 years. The levels of cholesterol, low density lipoprotein and high density lipoprotein revealed a significant decline, while there was increase in the serum triglyceride levels in the patients of skeletal fluorosis in all age groups. Serum glucose levels decreased in the fluorotic patients in comparison to control indicating hypoglycemic condition.

6 illus, 6 tables, 25 ref

008311   Sharma S K;Banyal H S (Laboratory of Parasitology and Immunology, Biosciences Dep, H.P. Univ, Shimla-171 005, Email: hsbanyal@yahoo.co.in) : Glutathione synthetase in Plasmodium berghei. J parasitic Dis 2007, 31(1), 33-7.

Cell-free Plasmodium berghei (NK-65) contained 5.6-times more (around 0.443±0.001 U/mg protein) glutathione synthetase (E.C. 6.3.2.3) enzyme activity as compared to normal mouse erythrocytes. Subcellular fractionation revealed that enzyme activity is mainly confined to the cytosolic part of parasite. Around 41-fold purification of enzyme was achieved by using a combination of ammonium sulphate fractionation and Sephadex G-200 gel filtration. The purified enzyme had a molecular weight of 70 kDa.

2 illus, 2 tables, 21 ref

008310   Sharma N;Sudarsan Y;Sharma R;Govind Singh (Plant Biotechnology Centre, Rajasthan Agricultural Univ, Bikaner-334 006, Email: yemmanur_sudarsan@yahoo.co.in) : RAPD analysis of soil microbial diversity in western Rajasthan. Curr Sci 2008, 94(8), 1058-61.

RAPD analysis of DNA isolated from soils under Ker and associated open areas of Bikaner, Kodamdesar and Nagaur regions of western Rajasthan was carried out using six primers to find out the effect of Ker (Capparis deciduas) plants on microbial diversity. The average Jacard's coefficient similarity within Ker samples was less (0.250) than that within adjoining open area (0.337), indicating that the soil under Ker supports more diverse microbes compared to the open areas. Comparatively higher fertility status in terms of NPK and C content under Ker plants was envisaged to support more diverse types of microbes. The soils from the three locations were quite uniform both under Ker (94.53%) and in open area (94.76%).

^ssc3 illus, 4 tables, 20 ref

008309   Seramani S;Rajendran A;Thangavelu V G (Biochemical Engineering Laboratory, Chemical Engineering Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalai Nagar-608 002, Email: donaravind@yahoo.com) : Biosynthesis of statins and its potential applications. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(3), 645-7.

Statins (Hypolipidemic Agents) act as an inhibitor of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl Coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase, are the main class of drugs to reduce Low Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (LDL-C) levels. Statins are the fungal secondary metabolites which selectively inhibit hydroxymethyl glutaryl coenzyme A reductase, the first enzyme in cholesterol biosynthesis. Various fungi have been used to produce different types of statins commercially. This review deals with the structure, biosynthesis of statins, fermentative and synthetic production of statins, and application of statins.

8 ref

008308   Sahasrabudhe M;Wahegaonkar N (Microbiology, Maulana Azad College, Aurangabad, Maharashtra) : Efficiency of pasteurization process of pasteurized milk received in Aurangabad city. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(3), 533-4.

Fifteen pasteurized milk samples of different brands received in Aurangabad city were collected. These milk samples were screened for the presence of phosphatase enzyme as well as for the presence of coliforms. Eighty percent of the samples showed negative phosphatase test and the remaining samples gave positive test. Almost all the samples showed presence of coliforms. The present study indicates inadequate pasteurization and improper handling and storage of the milk.

1 illus, 1 table, 5 ref

008307   Roy U;Roy U;Paul A;Sen Raychaudhuri S (Plant Tissue Culture and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Biophysics Dep, Molecular Biology and Genetics, 92, Acharya Prafulla Chandra Road, Calcutta-700 009, Email: sarmistha_rc@rediffmail.com) : Nutrient depletion coupled with high auxin concentration triggers serk gene to induce somatic embryo in Plantago ovata in vitro. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(3), 661-6.

In vitro plant regeneration of Plantago ovata was attempted through somatic embryogenesis. Shoot bud and hypocotyl sections when inoculated on MS media supplemented with 2,4-D/Kinetin formed profuse callus. After 40 days of maintenance in this medium embryogenesis was induced in these calli. The morphology of the embryos was studied following scanning electron microscope to trace the developmental pathways. SEM revealed that the protocol was a quick effective and reproducible method for plant regeneration. The callus cells maintained in the same nutrient medium with high auxin for longer duration without subculture triggered somatic embryogenesis. It is conjectured that depletion of nutrients in long-term callus culture along with high auxin content might induce expression of genes, which resulted in embryogenesis. Total RNA was extracted and RT-PCR was performed using a Somatic Embryogenesis Receptor Kinase specific primer to confirm its expression with the onset of Somatic Embryogenesis.

6 illus, 1 table, 23 ref

008306   Rajan S;Balakumar S;Thirunalasundari T (Microbiology Dep, Srimad Andavan Arts and Science College, Tiruchirapalli-620 005) : Antibacterial activity of Punica granatum Linn. fruit rind extracts and fractions on enteropathogenic Escherichia coli. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(3), 625-7.

Antibacterial activity of Punica granatum fruit rind extracts and fractions were studied on Enteropathogenic strains of Escherichia coli. Disc diffusion method (Bauer et al., 1966) was adapted to screen antibacterial activity and agar dilution method (NCCLS, 1993) was used to look for Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC). Antibacterial activity was observed in two extracts and various fractions. MIC of the hexane and water fraction were found to be 50 μg/mL concentration and methanol, chloroform and benzene fractions were at 100 μg/ml. Aqueous extracts taken with ethyl alcohol and water showed MIC at 200 μg/ ml concentrations.

2 tables, 17 ref

008305   Rajan S;Balakumar S;Thirunalasundari T (Microbiology Dep, Srimad Andavan Arts & Science College, Tiruchirapalli-620 005) : Antibacterial activity of Punica granatum linn. fruit rind extracts / fractions on enteropathogenic Escherichia coli. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(3), 501-3.

Antibacterial activity of Punica granatum fruit rind extracts & fractions were studied on Enteropathogenic strains of Escherichia coli. Disc diffusion method (Bauer et al., 1966) was adapted to screen antibacterial activity and agar dilution method (NCCLS, 1993) was used to look for Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC). Antibacterial activity was observed in two extracts and various fractions. MIC of the hexane & water fraction were found to be 50 ig / ml concentration and methanol, chloroform & benzene fractions were at 100 ig / ml. Aqueous extracts taken with ethyl alcohol and water showed MIC at 200 ig / ml concentrations.

2 tables, 17 ref

008304   Rai P;Rakhee;Rao R (Biotechnology Dep, Alva's College, Moodbidri-574 227) : Antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of Abies webbiana and Taxus baccata L.. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(3), 607-8.

Total phenolics content was highest in Abies webbiana (450 mg/100g) followed by Taxus baccata (400 mg/100g). The Abies webbiana showed maximum reducing property (7.6%). Taxus baccata was next best as for as reducing property is concerned (5.3 %). Among the extracts of two plant materials tested, Taxus baccata inhibited Staphylococci to a maximum extent (with inhibition zone diameter of 19.5mm) followed by Abies webbiana (with inhibition zone diameter of 11.5 mm). Amoung the extracts of plant materials tested, Taxus baccata inhibited E. coli to a maximum extent (with inhibition zone diameter of 20.5 mm) followed by Abies webbiana (with inhibition zone diameter of 18 mm).

1 table, 7 ref

008303   Rai A;Sushma (Biochemistry Dep, AAI-DU, Allahabad) : Levels of β-2-microglobulin and immunoglobulin gene rearrangement in patients of multiple myeloma. Bioved 2008, 19(1-2), 133-4.

The study was conducted to evaluate the levels of p-2-microglobulin by ELISA in the test sera of patients of multiple myeloma. Percentage of immunoglobulin gene rearrangement was also detected using PCR and length of gene was between 400-500 base pairs. The levels of β-2-microglobulin in the sera of patients ranged from 0 46 to 4.25 μg/ml in comparison to healthy controls (0.37-2.24 μg/ml). Immunoglobulin gene rearrangement was 75%.

1 table, 6 ref

008302   Noor N;Gunasekaran S;Soosai Manickam A; Vijayalakshmi M A (Centre for bio-separation technology, VIT Univ, Vellore-632 014, Email: indviji@yahoo.com) : Antidiabetic activity of Aloe vera and histology of organs in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Curr Sci 2008, 94(8), 1070-6.

An attempt was made to study the beneficial effects of Aloe vera (L.) Burm. fil. in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. In diabetic induced rats fed with A. vera (300 mg/kg body wt), the fasting plasma glucose levels were reduced to normal and body weight was found to be increased. In the pancreatic sections of diabetic rats fed with A. vera, the islets were comparable to normal rats. In liver, the changes caused after induction of diabetes are granular cytoplasm, dilated sinusoids, shrunken nuclei and inflammation, which was reduced after feeding with A. vera. Excess proliferation of epithelium in the small intestine was observed in diabetic rats, which was reduced after A. vera feeding. In diabetic rats and diabetic rats fed with A. vera, no change was noticed in the kidney and stomach.

^ssc3 illus, 4 tables, 26 ref

008301   Nagarjuna A;Rajendra Prasad S;Siraj Mohiyuddin S;Jaya Kumar R;Savithri Y;Jacob DosS P (Zoology Dep, Sri Venkateswara Univ, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh) : Responses of cypermethrin intoxication-induced stress in haematological profiles of mammalian model albino rat. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(3), 547-50.

Cypermethrin is a synthetic pyrethroid that belongs to a group of insecticides with low mammalian toxicity but high insecticidal activity. On exposure to sublethal doses of cypermethrin the haematological parameters were investigated in different groups of albino rats [single, double and multiple doses (41, 82 and 164 mg/kg body weight)]. The pesticide was administered orally by gavage method with an interval of one day. The results revealed statistically significant decrease of RBC, Hb, PCV, MCV, MCH, MCHC, neutrophils and increase of WBC, lymphocytes and monocytes.

1 table, 30 ref

008300   Mullai K;Jebanesan A (Vector Biology Div, Zoology Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalainagar-608 002) : Bioeficacy of the leaf extract of Cucumis pubescens willd (cucurbitaceae) against larval mosquitoes.. Bull Bio Sci 2006, 4(1), 35-7.

Larvicidal efficacy of the leaf extract of Cucumis pubescens with four different solvents were tested against late third larval instar of Anopheles stephensi, Culex quinquefasciatus and Aedes aegypti. The larval mortality was observed after 24 h exposure. The LC₅₀ values of A. stephensi with benzene, petroleum ether, ethyl acetate and methanol were 16.64±1.71, 39.47±1.61, 42.25±2.33 and 48.41±2.04 ppm respectively. The LC₅₀ values of Cx. quinquefasciatus were 18.97±1.51, 58.82±1.61, 44.04±0.41 and 49.07±1.39 ppm respectively. The LC₅₀ values of Ae. aegypti were 52.89±1.46, 21.78±0.79, 48.83±1.29 and 65.37±1.39 ppm respectively.

1 table, 9 ref

008299   Lanjewar S B;Musaddiq M;Rao N G V (NO, , "Sakshi" Apartment, Flat No.5, Sawaniwadi, Ranpise Nagar, Akola-444 001) : Fermentation media for novel insecticidal toxin producing bacterium Photorhabdus luminescens. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(3), 581-4.

Current and future widespread deployment of transgenic crops expressing Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) toxins has generated concern about the rapid development of insect resistance. The activity of Bt proteins has spurred a renewed effort to develop a useful alternative. In recent years, several novel insecticidal proteins have been discovered in Photorhabdus luminescens. The bacterium belonging to the family Enterobacteriaceae is a symbiont of the entomopathogenic nematode Heterorhabditis species. Photorhabdus species have been the subject of intense study by agricultural scientists because of the role played by these bacteria in controlling the insect pests. The bacteria during its growth on culture media secrete insecticidal toxin proteins. Considering the ability of Photorhabdus luminescens to grow on cheap agro industrial by-product viz., button mushroom stalks, a media was deviced that supports good growth of Photorhabdus luminescens and was economically sound. The media thus formulated for the production of Photorhabdus luminescens would be a good alternative and highly valuable for reducing the production cost of the biopesticide.

4 tables, 16 ref

008298   Kaushik P;Kaushik V (NO, Kasturbagram Rural Institute, Kasturbagram, Indore, Madhya Pradesh) : Aerobic dance programme and changes in flexibility and agility of educable mentally retarded children. Scient J Sports Exercise 2007, 3(2), 45-8.

To assess the effect of aerobic dance programme on the flexibility and agility of educable mentally retarded childred, fifty boys and girls of age group nine to sixteen years studying at National Institute of Mentally handicapped, New Delhi were selected. The health conditions and I.Q level of subjects were checked from school records. The measure applied for collection of data were Fleishman twist and touch test and zig-zag running test. A week's orientation programme on aerobic dance was given to acquaint subjects for doing exercise on music with proper rhythm. a pre test was taken and a regular programme of aerobic dance was administered for 12 weeks with 4 days in a week. The post test was administered after every four weeks of aerobic dance. Aerobic dance programme had significant effect on flexibility and agility (p>.05). Clayton (1981) developed a high intensity physical activity programme for overweight mentally retarded children and found that in addition to favourable weight and % of body fat during the programme, improved motor coordination, improved body functioning, increased enjoyment of team efforts. Fitness of moderate mentally retarded boys can be improved through developmental activities but the prescription of specific activities in critical in success of such a programme. William (1978). Cavanaugh(1969) in his 22 week physical education programme on educable mentally retarded and minimally brain damaged children showed significant improvement in measures of strength, power, balance, agility, cardio-vascular efficiency, co-ordination and speed of response and least amount of improvement was found in flexibility. Allen (1990) found a significant difference between the scores of 54% of the experimental group and 75% of the control group of self concept after a two week intensive dance/movement education programme.

4 tables, 10 ref

008297   Joshi A (Evolutionary and Organismal Biology, Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research, Jakkur P.O., Bangalore-560 064, Email: ajoshi@jncasr.ac.in) : Hardy-weinberg equilibrium and the foundations of evolutionary genetics. Resonance 2008, 13(9), 812-35.

The year 2008 marks the 150th anniversary of the debut of the concept of natural selection as a mechanism of adaptive evolution through the reading of papers by Darwin and Wallace to the Linnaean Society. It also marks the 100th anniversary of the enunciation of the principle defining the inertial state of populations from a genetic viewpoint through the independent publication of papers on the topic by G H Hardy and W Weinberg. This four-part series, we will examine the significance of the Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium as a basic model of population genetics that, in turn, forms the foundation for evolutionary genetics. Part I of this series, discuss the historical backdrop to the work of Hardy and Weinberg, and introduce the basic notion of genetic equilibrium.

5 illus, 3 tables, 6 ref

008296   Jeyanthi Kumari V;Victor B (Microbiology Dep, K.R. College of Arts & Science, Kovilpatti-628 502) : Isolation and preparation of carriers with phosphate solublizing bacteria. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(3), 601-5.

Attempt was made to analyse the presence of Phosphate Solublizing Bacteria (PSB) in a rhizosphere soil of paddy field, also their ability to survive in various carrier-based materials, such as compost soil, ash, activated charcoal powder and Gumarabic powder. Rhizosphere soil of Oryza sativa was examined for Total Heterotrophic Bacterial Population (THBP) and Phosphate Solublizing Rhizosphere Soil Bacterial Isolates (PSRSBI). Comparing the data of THBP and PSRSBI, they existed an inverse relationship between them. A total of 25 PSRSBI were characterized to its generic level and was principally composed of Pseudomonas sp; Bacillus sp and Micrococcus sp in the order of 48%, 44% and 8% respectively. The two PSRSBI namely Pseudomonas sp; Bacillus sp were selected and examined for their ability to survive and multiply in the above said carrier materials as mono and co-cultures. Results inferred that the compost soil supported the propagation of the strains more efficiently and were true especially when the mixed cultures were inoculated. The Pseudomonas sp mixed with compost soil carrier showed a marginal increase in it's survival when compared with Bacillus sp. The result of ash, when compared with compost soil, the mixed cultures propagated much strongly than the individual inoculums. The charcoal has rendered only marginal increase in the bacterial population. The Gumarabic powder has exhibited a lower level of incorporated organisms, but it was more pronounced on Pseudomonas sp compared to other inoculums.

1 illus, 5 tables, 15 ref

008295   Haris K K;Gupta A K (Dep of Zoology, govt. D.B.P.G. College, Raipur-492 001, Email: kkharis19@gmail.com) : Histoenzymological studies on Pallisentis nagpurensis bhalerao 1931, parasitizing the snakeheaded murrel, Channa punctatus at Raipur. J Parasitol appl Anim Biol 2006, 15(1-2), 73-80.

Histo-enzymological studies were carried out on the adult Pallisentis nagpurensis, an acanthocephalan intestinal parasite of the snake headed murrel Channa punctatus at Raipur. The study comprised localization of the three major classes of the enzymes viz., phosphatases, easterases and dehydrigenases in the body wall and various body organs of the parasite. Phosphatases were strongly positive at the striped layer, felt layer, circular muscle layer and longitudinal muscle layer of the body wall and among the body organs, lemnisci, testes, ovary, uterus, uterine bell and cement glands showed a positive reaction; easterases were positive at the epicuticle, cuticle, felt layer and radial muscle layer of the body wall and among the body organs proboscis and proboscis receptacle showed a positive reaction. Dehydrogenases were positive at the epicuticle, cuticle, felt layer and radial muscle layer of the body wall and among the body organs proboscis, ovary and uterus showed a positive reaction.

2 tables, 14 ref

008294   Gupta M;Mukesh Kumar;Asthana A K (Biochemistry Dep, Subharti Medical College, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh) : Comparison of serum apolipoprotein levels between normal and in children of patients of vascular complications. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(3), 517-21.

Association between apolipoprotein (apo A-I& B) and vascular complication was investigated. Over 230 patients of vascular complication and their off springs (n=418) were compared with normal healthy subjects (n=100) and their children (n=122) Serum apo AI and apo-B were significantly low (p<0.05 and 0.001) and high (p<0.01 & 0.001) respectively in children of either Mother/Father having vascular complication and children of parents both having vascular complication with children of normal healthy subjects. On comparing children of both groups with each other serum apo- Al and apo B was significantly low (p<0.001) and high (p<0.001) respectively in children of parents both having vascular complication of group A (below age 40 years). It is suggested that disease is more likely to transfer in children of parents both having vascular complication of below age 40 years. Implication of this study is that increase of apo A-I might play protective role in the pathogenesis of vascular complication.

6 tables, 8 ref

008293   Girkar M M;Kulkarni G N;Satam S B;Todkari S S (College of Fisheries, , Shirgaon, Ratngiri-415 629, Email: sachin_satam@rediffmail.com) : Ecology of clam bed in Kalbadevi estuary, Ratnagiri. Ecol Envir Conserv 2008, 14(1), 31-3.

During seven-month period (July 2002 to January 2003), surface water temperature and salinity of Kalbadevi estuary, varied from 27°C to 31°C and 22 to 30 ppt respectively without any particular seasonal trend. The minimum pH of 7.34 and maximum of 7.74 were observed, while dissolved oxygen values were recorded 4.6 to 5.8 mg/L without much variation with season. In the present investigation organic matter fluctuated from 0.23 to 1.27%. The water level, i.e. depth varied from 2 to 3.7 m depending on tidal influence. The substratum composition at site contain 50% clay, 17% silt and 33% sand.

12 ref

008292   Delawar H M (Physics Dep, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Waseda Univ, Tokyo 169-8555, Japan, Email: mdhphy@yahoo.com) : Hydrolysis activity of mutants of F₁-ATpase: A comparative study using spectrophotometric method. Res J Chem Envir 2008, 12(1), 46-8.

Biological cells contain ATP synthase that makes ATP, F₁-ATPase is the water soluble portion of ATP synthase that acts as an ATP-hydrolysis driven rotary molecular motor. Previously studied ATP hydrolysis activity as well as generation of torque by some mutants of F₁-ATPase in which 14, 17 or 21 amino acid residues at the carboxy terminus of the γ subunit were absent. It has been found that the mutant made by deletion of 21 amino acid residues could produce about half of the torque of another mutant that lacks 14 amino acid residues or wild type but it showed poor ATP hydrolysis activity. In this paper, the rate of ATP hydrolysis by these mutants was compared using spectro-photometric method. It was found that the mutant lacking 14 amino acid residues was activated that was recognized by a well defined peak in the activation profile whereas the mutant lacking 21 amino acid residues was deactivated indicating its structural instability.

3 illus, 13 ref

008291   Chhabra D (Veterinary Microbiology Dep, College of Veterinary Sc. and A.H., Mhow, Madhya Pradesh-453 446) : Suitability of two diluents and different media for the enumeration of yeasts in Paneer. Indian J Field Vet 2008, 3(3), 69-71.

Twenty five samples of Paneer were analyzed for yeast count by spread plate method. The effect of 2 diluents, saline (0.85per cent NaCI) and 0.1 per cent peptone, on the final counts of yeasts, were studied. The different media used for enumeration were potato dextrose agar (PDA) acidified with 10 per cent tartaric acid, potato dextrose agar with chloramphenicol, oxytetracycline glucose yeast agar, dextrose salt agar (DSA) acidified with 10 per cent citric acid and dextrose salt agar with oxytetracycline. The counts of yeasts obtained were 24-180 cfu/g of the sample. Antibiotic - supplemented media were found superior to acidified media and the diluent saline gave the higher counts. The frequently noticed temperature abuse in the retail trade and the high counts of yeast in Paneer, point to the necessity of sanitary improvement of manufacture and distribution practices.

1 table, 19 ref

008290   Chaurasia S;Sushma;Neeraj (Biochemistry Dep, Alld. Agric. Inst-Deemed Univ., Allahabad) : Effect of different extracts of T. Arjuna on haemoglobin, glucose and cholesterol in broilers. Bioved 2008, 19(1-2), 127-8.

Trial was conducted to study the effect of different levels (0.5%, 1%, 2%) of T. arjuna on blood parameters in broilers. T. arjuna was used in 3 different forms such as powder, water extract and ethanolic extract. Results revealed that 2% ethanolic extracted T. arjuna significantly influenced blood glucose and total cholesterol content.

1 table, 5 ref

008289   Bindhuja M D;Revathi K;Gopal C (NO, , No. 10/1, Pammi Sivaramulu Street, Old Washermenpet, Chennai-600 021, Email: bindhu_01@rediffmail.com) : Effect of different salinity in ablated Indian white shrimp Fenneropenaeus indicus (H. milne edwards) in relation to ammonia and nitrite excretion. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(3), 677-80 .

Indian white shrimp Fenneropenaeus indicus is widely distributed in the Indo-Pacific waters and it supports an active seasonal fishery along the south east coast of Tamilnadu. The effects of salinity on ammonia and nitrite excretion were investigated on the different stages of Fenneropenaeus indicus (H.Milne Edwards) at salinities of 20, 25 and 30 ppt Ammonia and nitrite excretion rates were inversely related with salinity and therefore were minimal at 30 ppt The results of this study suggest that the optimum salinity for adult Fenneropenaeus indicus is 30 ppt and that even minor (e.g., 5 ppt) deviation from this optimum causes significant physiological changes. Further the observed increases in ammonia and nitrite excretion during exposure to low salinities, which indicate higher energy expenditure and amino acid catabolism respectively, suggesting that the reproductive efficiency of Fenneropenaeus indicus adults might have been affected because of osmotic imbalance due to low salinity.

29 ref

008288   Bindal V D (Health Sciences Dep, LNIPE (Deemed University), Gwalior-2, ) : Efficacy of long wave diathermy on pain relief in tennis elbow. Scient J Sports Exercise 2007, 3(2), 41-4.

Eighteen subjects (13 males & 5 females) who were doing hysical education courses at Lakshmibai National Institute of Physical Education, Gwalior with a diagnosis of Tennis Elbow were randomly selected for the study during April 2005 and August 2006. All the subjects were treated with Long Wave Diathermy for 8 sessions on alternate days. The subjects were assessed for pain in terms of visual Analogue Scale (VAS) before and after the treatment. the statistical analysis revealed that the Long Wave diathermy (LWD) treatment could be used as a therapeutic modality for pain relief in Tennis Elbow.

1 table, 8 ref

008287   Anitha Devi U;Singara Charya M A (Microbiology Dep, Kakatiya Univ, Warangal-506 009) : Biodegradation of aquatic angiosperms in Lower Manair Dam (LMD) and Kakatiya Canal (KC) waters, Karimnagar. Indian J envir Prot 2008, 28(1), 31-37.

The biodegration of 5 aquatic angiosperms in Lower Manair Dam and Kakatiya Canal waters Karimnagar, Andhra Pradesh, was undertaken in 10 to 40 day of incubation time. The pH, alkalinity, chlorides, biomass and organic matter contents were determined during the biodegrada-tion. Among these 5 plants Ceratophyllum desmarium showed maximum degradation (97%) both in canal and dam waters. The pH range during biodegradation was in between 7 to 9, while the mean increase of alkalinity was 400 to 714 mg/L. The maximum accumulation of chlorides was with Typha angustifolia (295 mg/L). The average values of organic matter ranged from 0.14 to 0.44% in dam waters and 0.11 to 0.40% in canal waters.

10 illus, 18 ref

007228   Zafir A;Banu N (Biochemistry Dep, Faculty of Life Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh 202002, Email: naheedbanu7@yahoo.com) : Induction of oxidative stress by restraint stress and corticosterone treatments in rats. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2009, 46(1), 53-8.

Chronic exposure to psychological stress in humans and restraint stress in experimental animals results in increased oxidative stress and resultant tissue damage. To study the contribution of stress hormones towards stress-induced oxidative processes in the brain, investigates the response of important free-radical scavenging enzymes toward chronic administration of two doses of corticosterone (low dose: 10 mg/kg/day, high dose: 40 mg/kg/day) in rodents. After a 21-day experimental period, a significant decline in both superoxide dismutase and catalase was observed in both stressed and stress hormone-treated animals. The brain levels of glutathione as well as the activities of glutathione-S-transferase and glutathione reductase were also significantly decreased, while lipid peroxidation levels were significantly increased in comparison to controls. A direct pro-oxidant effect of stress hormones in the brain during physical and psychological stress was observed, indicating important implications for oxidative stress as a major pathological mechanism during chronic stress and a consequent target option for anti-stress therapeutic interventions.

007227   Vijaya C;Ramanathan M;Suresh B (Pharmacology Dep, J.S.S. College of Pharmacy, Ootacamund-643 001) : Lipid lowering activity of ethanolic extract of leaves of Aegle marmelos (Linn.) in hyperlipidaemic models of Wistar albino rats. Indian J expl Biol 2009, 47(3), 182-5.

Lipid lowering effect of 50% ethanolic extract of the leaves of A. marmelos (Linn.) was evaluated in triton and diet induced hyperlipidaemic models of Wistar albino rats. The extract at 125 and 250 mg/kg dose levels inhibited the elevation in serum cholesterol and triglycerides levels on Triton WR 1339 administration in rats. The extract at the same dose levels significantly attenuated the elevated serum total cholesterol and triglycerides with an increase in the high-density lipoprotein cholesterol in high-fat diet- induced hyperlipidaemic rats. The standard drugs atorvastatin in the former and gemfibrozil in the latter studies showed slightly better effects.

007226   Tripathi N K;Saxena P;Sathyaseelan K;Rao P V I (Bioprocess Scale-up Facility, Defence Research and Development Extabli, , Jhansi Road, Gwalior-474 002, Email: tripathink@gmail.com) : Production of recombvinant dengue virus type 2 envelope domain III protein in Escherichia coli. Indian chem Engr 2008, 50(3), 194-204.

Dengue fever is the most important re-emerging mosquito-borne viral disease. A major proportion of the target population resides in the developing countries of the world, including India. Envelope protein of dengue virus is the major antigen which elicits neutralising antibody response. A fermentation method was developed for the production of recombinant dengue virus type 2 envelope domain III (DIII) protein in Escherichia coli (E. coli). Cells were grown in complex media and the dissolved oxygen (DO) level was maintained at 20-30% of air saturation by control of airflow and stirrer speed as well as by using pure oxygen mixed with air whenever necessary. The culture was induced with 1 mM of isopropyl-β-thiogalactoside (IPTG) when dry cell weight was 7.42 g/l and cells were further grown for 4 h to reach 12.15 g/l. This protein was purified from inclusion bodies under denaturing conditions by using single step affinity chromatography. When analysed by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) it was shown to be about 95% pure and produced at yields of about 56.4 mg/l of culture medium. The reactivity of purified protein was further checked by Western blotting and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) with patient serum samples. This approach of producing recombinant protein in E. coli with high yield offers promising alternative for diagnostic studies in dengue infections.

2 illus, 2 tables, 27 ref

007225   Tiwari S;Prasad J;Pandey R; (Faculty of Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandary, Allahabad Agricultural Institute, Allahabad-211 007) : Effect of shelter system on the quality of raw milk of cross-bred cows. Allahabad Fmr 2007, 63(1), 6-9.

An experiment was conducted to determine the quality of raw milk of crossbred cows under different Housing systems. The experimental findings revealed that bacteriological quality of raw milk produced by cows housed in barn was significantly superior than milk of cows kept in loose housing system, however compositional parameters of milk (fat, protein, lactose, ash, T.S. and S.N.F.) were not significantly influenced by shelter system of cows.

1 table, 10 ref

007224   Thomas M;Sujatha K S;George S (Veterinary Biochemistry Dep, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, , Mannuthy, Thrissur-680 651) : Protective effect of Piper longum Linn. on monosodium glutamate induced oxidative stress in rats. Indian J expl Biol 2009, 47(3), 186-92.

Protective effect of ethanol extract of Piper longum Linn. against monosodium glutamate (MSG) induced toxicity was studied. Rats, orally administered with MSG at a dose of 8 mg/g body weight for 20 consecutive days, showed an increase in liver weight and rate of lipid peroxidation. Glutathione (GSH) in serum, liver and kidney showed decreased concentration. Significant increase was noticed in activities of serum alanine amino transferase (ALT) and aspartate amino transferase (AST), levels of serum triacylglycerol, total cholesterol and urea. Histopathological examination of liver and kidney showed central venous congestion, diffuse degeneration and necrosis of hepatocytes in para cortical and midzonal areas of liver and diffuse cortical tubular degeneration of kidney. Oral administration of ethanol extract of P. longum fruits at 300 mg/kg body weight along with MSG significantly reduced the levels of lipid peroxides in serum, liver and kidney, serum AST activity, serum levels of triacylglycerol and total cholesterol. Though, there was an increase in the level of GSH in tissues it was not significant. However, the treatment failed to reduce the levels of ALT and urea. Examination of tissue sections also exhibited normal histological architecture of both the organs. The present study revealed that administration of P. longum provided significant protection to liver and kidney from the oxidative stress of MSG, though the dose rate was not sufficient to provide a complete protection.

007223   Swarnakar S;Paul S (Physiology Dep, Drug Development Diagnostics and Biotechnology Div, Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, 4, Raja S.C. Mullick Road, Jadavpur, Kolkata-700032, Email: snehasiktas@hotmail.com) : Curcumin arrests endometriosis by downregulation of matrix metalloproteinase-9 activity. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2009, 46(1), 59-65.

Curcumin, a polyphenol derived from turmeric (Curcuma longa) possesses diverse pharmacological properties including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative activities. Endometriosis is a gyneocological disorder characterized by growth of endometrial tissues outside uterus that involves aberrant matrix remodeling. In this study the effect of curcumin was studied on surgically developed endometriosis in mice. Endometriosis with varying severity was developed in mice by peritoneal implantation of uterine fragments. The changes in matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 and tissue inhibitor of metalloprotease (TIMP)-1 were investigated in endometriotic tissues following curcumin pre- and post-treatment. Results showed that MMP-9 activity increased gradually in endometriotic tissues with severity and curcumin treatment reversed the MMP-9 activity near to control value. Curcumin administered either post- or pre-endometriosis arrested endometriosis in a dose-dependent manner. It inhibited both MMP-9 activity and its expression at the level of secretion, during regression of endometriotic lesion. In addition, the attenuated activity of MMP-9 was associated with decreased expression of tumor necrosis factor-a (TNF-a) during healing, suggesting the anti-inflammatory property of curcumin. Moreover, curcumin pretreatment prevented lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation in endometriotic tissues. Reports for the first time the anti-endometriotic property of curcumin via MMP-9 dependent pathway that may lead to new therapeutic intervention.

007222   Sreeramulu D;Vijaya Kumar Reddy C;Raghunath M (Endocrinology and Metabolism Div, National Institute of Nutrition, Hyderabad-500 604, Email: dandesr@yahoo.com) : Antioxidant activity of commonly consumed cereals, millets, pulses and legumes in India. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2009, 46(1), 112-5.

Plant foods are important due to their antioxidant activity (AOA) attributed to the phenolics which are known to protect organisms against harmful effects of oxygen radicals. However, information on antioxidant activity of Indian plant foods is scanty. Therefore, the present study evaluated the AOA of cereals, millets, pulses and legumes, commonly consumed in India and assessed the relationship with their total phenolic content (TPC). AOA was assessed by DPPH (2,2-Diphenyl-1-picryl hydrazyl) radical scavenging assay, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay and reducing power. DPPH scavenging activity ranged from 0.24 and 1.73 mg/g, whereas FRAP ranged from 16.21 to 471.71 μmoles/g. Finger millet (Eleusine cora cana) and Rajmah (Phaseolus vulgaris) had the highest FRAP 471.71, 372.76 and DPPH scavenging activity 1.73, 1.07. Similar trends were observed with reducing power. Among cereals and legumes, Finger millet (Ragi) and black gram dhal (Phaseolus mungo Roxb) had the highest TPC, the values being 373 and 418 mg/100 g respectively, while rice (Oryza sativa) and green gram dhal (Phaseolus aureus Roxb) showed the least (47.6 and 62.4 mg/100 g). In the present study, FRAP (r = 0.91) and reducing power (r = 0.90) showed significant correlation with TPC in cereals and millets, but not in pulses and legumes. The results suggest that TPC contributes significantly to the AOA of Indian cereals and millets.

007221   Sivakumar K;Balaji S;Radhakrishnan G (Chemistry Dep, Sri Chandrasekharendra Saraswathi Viswa Mahavidyalaya, Enathur, Kanchipuram-631 561, Email: shivamk25@yahoo.co.in) : Biocomputational analysis and characterization of stickler syndrome associated human collagen proteins. Bull Bio Sci 2006, 4(2), 151-60.

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body. Collagen forms a major part of connective tissue, which can be described as the supportive tissue of the organs of the body. Defect in collagen causes various syndromes including stickler syndrome. Here, stickler syndrome associated three human collagen proteins (Collagen alpha 1 (II) chain, Collagen alpha 1 (XI) chain and Collagen alpha 2(XI) chain Precursors; Accession numbers: P02458, P12107 & P13942) retrieved from Swiss-Prot database are characterized by using proteomics tools and online proteomics servers to give detailed description of stickler syndrome associated human collagen proteins. Primary structure analysis shows that all the three stickler syndrome associated collagen proteins are rich in glycine (23% - 28%) and proline (15% - 18%) residues. The theoretical isoelectric point (pl) computed by ExPasy's Prot Param indicates that the collagen protein P12107 is acidic, P13942 is weakly acidic (pl<7) and the protein P02458 is basic (pl>7) in character. The very low aliphatic index (38-49) infers that the collagen proteins may become unstable at high temperature. Based on the instability index, the Expasy's Prot Param classifies the collagen proteins as stable. Secondary structure analysis shows that all the three collagen proteins are found to be of predominant coil structure content (>78%) and the secondary structure content prediction server (SSCP) classifies as irregular secondary structure class. The irregular structure of collagen proteins is due to the rich content of more flexible glycine and hydrophobic proline amino acids. SOSUI server predicts one transmembrane region (IRLGAPQSLVLLTLLVAAVLRCQ) in P02458 (Collagen alpha 1(II) chain precursor). The predicted transmembrane region is visualized and analyzed using helical wheel plot generated by EMBOSS pepwheel tool and it is found that the helical wheel consists of more hydrophobic residues. The hydrophobicity of predicted transmembrane region is also well documented by the Kyte and Doolittle mean hydrophobicity profile. This is the first report on stickler syndrome associated human collagen proteins.

2 illus, 7 tables, 41 ref

007220   Sindhi S H;Savalia C V (Veterinary Public Health Dep, College of Veterinary Science and A. H., AAU, Anand-388 001) : Environmental prevalence fo E. coli serotypes on poultry farms. Indian J Field Vet 2008, 3(4), 54-6.

Environmental prevalence of E. coli serotypes was assessed on poultry farm in North Gujarat. A total of 57 isolates were recovered from 336 samples of various environmental sources of poultry farms like equipment washings (35.71 %), saw scrapings (27.27%, litter (26.78%), hand washings of farm workers (14.28%), feed (8.92%), soil (8.88%) and drinking wate~ (3.57%). Of all isolates 33 were typable, 10 rough and 14 untypable. The findings highlighted the need of taking strict hygienic measures on poultry farms to reduce the dreaded risk of E. coli infection in man and birds as well as poultry farm workers and the consumers of farm products.

2 tables, 16 ref

007219   Siddiqui M Z;Singh B R;Chandra M;Agarwal R K; Agarwal R K;Srivastava S K (PPD Div, Indian Institute of Natural Resins and Gums (Formerly ILRI), Namkum, Ranchi) : Detection and partial purification of Salmonella serovar Typhimurium cytotoxic protein affecting seed germination. J appl Anim Res 2008, 33(1), 77-9.

Cells of a virulent strain of Salmonella Typhimurium (E-2391), a highly ubiquitous and zoonotic serovar, were sonicated and the cell-free supernatant was precipitated using increasing concentration of ammonium sulphate (30-80%). Inhibition of seed germination by various precipitated fractions revealed that the activity was present in the fraction precipitated at 70% saturation of ammonium sulphate. Out of the two peaks obtained on Seralose 6B chromatography, the second peak was found to possess germination-inhibition activity at a level as low as 0.1 mg/ml of this protein. SDS-PAGE revealed the presence of fewer proteins in the second peak but no specific protein responsible for the inhibition could be deduced. The study indicated that the in vitro seed germination inhibition technique can be utilized for testing of Salmonella isolates for the cytotoxic properties instead of resorting to expensive in vivo methods involving use of animals.

2 illus, 4 ref

007218   Sharma N;Garg V (Bioscience and Biotechnology Dep, Banasthali University, Banasthali, Rajasthan-304022, Email: nidhisharma2006@gmail.com) : Antidiabetic and antioxidant potential of ethanolic extract of Butea monosperma leaves in alloxan-induced diabetic mice. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2009, 46(1), 99-105.

The possible protective effect of ethanolic extract of B. monosperma leaves (BMEE) on diabetes and diabetes-induced oxidative stress was evaluated in alloxan (ALXN)-induced diabetic male adult mice. Experimental animals were divided into three groups viz., I, II, and III. Diabetes mellitus (DM) was induced in groups II and III mice by a single intraperitoneal injection of alloxan (150 mg/kg body wt). Group I (control mice) received an equal volume of normal saline. Group III mice were further treated with BMEE (300 mg/kg body wt, p.o.) for a period of 45 days. Body weight and fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels were measured at periodic intervals during the test period. At the end of treatment period, blood was collected by cardiac puncture under mild ether anesthesia and serum was isolated to analyze its lipid profile i.e. serum total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), high density lipoprotein (HDL), low density lipoprotein (LDL) and very low density lipoprotein (VLDL). The homogenates of hepatic, pancreatic and renal tissues were also analyzed for both enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), reduced glutathione (GSH), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and total protein (TP). Alloxan injection resulted in a significantly (P<0.05) increased concentration of FBG level. Besides, the levels of enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants were decreased and TBARS level increased significantly (P<0.05) in hepatic, pancreatic and renal tissues. Also, serum TC, TG, LDL and VLDL-cholesterol level elevated significantly (P<0.05), whereas HDL-cholesterol reduced significantly (P<0.05) in group II (alloxan-treated diabetic control). The FBG level decreased significantly (P<0.05) after 45 days treatment of BMEE from 172 to 117.143 mg/dl, as compared to normal control (79.286 mg/dl). The activities of antioxidant enzymes (CAT and GSH-Px) and GSH level in hepatic, pancreatic and renal tissues also increased significantly (P<0.05) in BMEE-treated mice, but the activity of SOD was not improved significantly. BMEE treatment also reduced the TBARS levels and lowered serum lipid profile significantly (P<0.05). The findings of the present study indicated significant hypoglycemic and anti-oxidant activity in B. monosperma leaves, thus lends credence to its folklore use in the management and/or control of type-2 DM.

007217   Selvam R;Maheswari P;Kavitha P;Ravichandran M;Sas B;Ramchand C N (Preclinical Development, Kemin Industries South Asia (P) Ltd, Plot No. K3, 11th Cross Street, SIPCOT Industrial complex, Gummidipoondi-601 201, Email: maheshwari.p@kemin.com) : Effect of Bacillus subtilis PB6, a natural probiotic on colon mucosal inflammation and plasma cytokines levels in inflammatory bowel disease. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2009, 46(1), 79-85.

The pathophysiology of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) involves the production of diverse lipid mediators, namely eicosanoid, lysophospholipids, and platelet-activating factor, in which phospholipase A₂ (PLA₂) is the key enzyme. Thus, it has been postulated that control of lipid mediators production by inhibition of PLA₂ would be useful for the treatment of IBD. This hypothesis has been tested in the present study by examining the therapeutic effect of a novel natural probitic Bacillus subtilis PB6 (ATCC- PTA 6737). B. subtilis PB6 is found to secrete surfactins (cyclic lipopeptides) which have anti-bacterial potential. These surfactins inhibit PLA₂, a rate-limiting enzyme involved in the arachidonic acid associated inflammatory pathway and could downregulate the inflammatory response by regulating the eicosanoid and cytokine pathways. With this concept, an experimental animal trial has been conducted in a rat model of 2, 4, 6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS)-induced colitis. The oral administration of PB6 suppresses the colitis as measured by mortality rate, changes in the weight gain, colon morphology and the levels of plasma cytokines. The animals treated orally with PB6 at 1.5 x 10⁸ CFU/kg thrice daily from day 4 to 10 significantly improve gross pathology of the colon and regain the colon weight to normal (p< 0.05), compared to TNBS-induced positive control. The plasma levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and IFN-γ) are also significantly lowered (p<0.05) and anti-inflammatory cytokine (IL-10 and TGF-β) significantly (p<0.05) increased after the oral administration of PB6 on day 11. The present study supports the concept that PB6 inhibits PLA₂ by the secreting surfactins. In a clinical investigation, it is found to be well tolerated by all the healthy volunteers.

007216   Sabnis S S;Patel K H (Microbiology Dep, Institute of Science, Mumbai-400 032) : Production of biofuel using sweet potato, potato and corn. Bioinfolet 2008, 5(3A), 170-3.

Ethanol production was carried out using sweet potato, potato and corn as substrates. Initially, saccharification of the substrate was carried out using both acid as well as enzymatic hydrolysis. Enzymatic hydrolysis was found to give a higher yield of reducing sugar which was then converted to ethanol using a strain of Saccharomyces cereviseae isolated from soil. Of all the three substrates used in the study, sweet potato was found to possess the highest amount of utilizable reducing sugar, in turn showing the highest efficiency for biofuel production.

2 illus, 3 tables, 14 ref

007215   Raman N;Pothiraj C (Chemistry Dep, VHNSN College, Virudhunagar-626 001, Email: drn_raman@yahoo.co.in) : One step process for starch fermentation employing the starch digesting yeast Saccharomyces diastaticus. J Indian Chem Soc 2008, 85(4), 452-4.

The production of industrial and fuel ethanol from starchy biomass commonly involves three steps. The investigation was to assess the possibility of developing a direct one step process for starch fermentation employing the starch digesting yeast Saccharomyces diastaticus, a haploid strain. Direct fermentation of cassava waste by a pure culture of 5. diastaticus produced the maximum of 17 g/L ethanol at 36 h fermentation.

2 tables, 13 ref

007214   Rajasree C R;Rajmohan T;Augusti K T (Biochemistry Dep, University of Kerala, Kariavattom, Thiruvananthapuram-695 581) : Antiatherogenic and antiperoxidative effects of garlic and soy proteins in alcohol fed rats. Indian J expl Biol 2009, 47(3), 169-75.

Rats fed with alcohol (18%) at 3.76 g/day for 45 days showed significant reduction in body weight, glutathione (GSH) content and activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase in liver. Lecithin cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT) in plasma, levels of HDL cholesterol in serum, hepatic bile acid production and fecal excretion of neutral sterols also showed significant reduction. Simultaneous feeding of garlic protein (GP) or soy protein (SP) (500 mg/kg body weight/day for 45 days) to alcohol fed groups increased each of above parameters significantly towards normal values. Increase in GSH content and catalase activity in liver, was significantly higher for SP treated group than for GP treated group. However, increase in plasma LCAT was significantly higher for GP treated group than for SP treated group. Alcohol fed rats showed significant increase in liver weight, serum and tissue cholesterol, serum triacylglycerol (TAG), phospholipids (PL) and free fatty acid (FFA) levels and activity of HMGCoA reductase in liver and intestine. Lipid peroxidation, glucose-6 phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and glutathione reductase (GR) in liver and incorporation of labeled acetate into liver cholesterol also showed significant increase. GP and SP treated rats showed decrease in these values towards normal. GP feeding showed a better effect than SP in lowering serum and heart total cholesterol, and in maintaining GPx at near normal level, while SP feeding showed a better effect in lowering serum FFA level and maintaining GR activity at near normal level. In suppressing incorporation of labeled acetate into serum cholesterol, GP feeding showed a better effect than SP. Antiatherogenic and antiperoxidative effects of these proteins may be due to lower lysine/arginine ratio.

007213   Rahman I;Gogoi I;Biswas S P (Life Sciences Dep, Dibrugarh University, Assam-786 004) : Toxicity of plant extract against looper caterpillar, Buzura suppressaria guen. (Lepidoptera: Geometridae). Indian J Ent 2008, 70(2), 109-12.

Studies on effect of plant extracts against looper caterpillar, Buzura suppressaria Guen. were carried out in the laboratory. In the first set of experiments, caterpillars were exposed to the extract treated filter papers. All the extracts were found toxic to the caterpillars. However, highest mortality was recorded in the chloroform extracts of Polygonumhy hydropiper and Pogostemon parviflorus causing 100% and 83.33% mortality respectively at 2.0% concentration. In the second set of experiments, the treated alternate host plants with most effective plant extracts were better in comparison to control to save the damage caused by the caterpillars. No feeding marks were there on the bunch of Indigofera teysmani treated with the chloroform extracts of P. hydropiper and P. parviflorus at 2.0% concentration.

2 tables, 10 ref

007212   Preethi K C;Kuttan R (Biochemistry Dep, Amala Cancer Research Centre, Amala Nagar, Thrissur-680 555) : Hepato and reno protective action of Calendula officinalis L. flower extract. Indian J expl Biol 2009, 47(3), 163-8.

Flower extract of C. officinalis L. was evaluated for its protective effect against CCl₄ induced acute hepatotoxicity and cisplatin induced nephrotoxicity. The activities of serum marker enzymes of liver injury like glutamate pyruvate transaminase (SGPT), glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (SGOT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) which were increased by CCl₄ injection was found to be significantly reduced by the pretreatment of the flower extract at 100 and 250 mg/kg body weight. The lipid peroxidation in liver, the marker of membrane damage and the total bilirubin content in serum were also found to be at significantly low level in the extract pretreated group, indicating its protective role. The kidney function markers like urea and creatinine were significantly increased in cisplatin treated animals. However, their levels were found to be lowered in the extract pretreated groups (100 and 250 mg/kg body weight). Moreover, cisplatin induced myelosuppression was ameliorated by the extract pretreatment. Treatment with the extract produced enhancement of antioxidant enzymes - superoxide dismutase and catalase and glutathione. Results suggest a protective role of the flower extract of C. officinalis against CCl₄ induced acute hepatotoxicity and cisplatin induced nephrotoxicity. Extract has been found to contain several carotenoids of which lutein, zeaxanthin and lycopene predominates. Possible mechanism of action of the flower extract may be due to its antioxidant activity and reduction of oxygen radicals.

007211   Patel J;Iyer A;Brown L (School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, 4072, Australia, Email: l.brown@uq.edu.au) : Evaluation of the chronic complications of diabetes in a high fructose diet in rats. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2009, 46(1), 66-72.

The increasing prevalence of type 2 diabetes is associated with increasing health costs, especially for the treatment of cardiovascular disease. The development of new treatment modalities requires animal models that mimic the range of pathophysiological changes seen in diabetic humans. Dietary fructose intake has been linked to the increase in insulin resistance as part of the metabolic syndrome; fructose-fed rats develop type 2 diabetes. This study has characterized the cardiovascular changes in young adult male Wistar rats fed a 61% fructose diet for 16 weeks. Our results extend the reported changes of hypertension, lipid abnormalities, impaired glucose tolerance and impaired oxidative defense to include ventricular dilatation with hypertrophy and decreased contractile function, together with increased inflammatory cell infiltration into the ventricular myocardium, resulting in excessive collagen deposition and an increased stiffness of the left ventricle. However, endothelial dysfunction, tactile allodynia as a symptom of peripheral neuropathy and retinopathy are not present in these rats, in contrast to the streptozotocin-induced model of type 1 diabetes. Thus, fructose feeding mimics many, but not all, of the symptoms of type 2 diabetes in humans.

007210   Patel J A;Patel D S (Pharmacology Dep, Institute of Pharmacy, Nirma University of Science & Technology, Ahmedabad-382 481, Email: jagrutiap@gmail.com) : Evaluation of anti ulcer activity of Piper longum against absolute ethanol induced gastric mucosal damage in mice. Int J Green Pharm 2007, 1(3-4), 34-8.

In the traditional system of medicine Piper longum powder is given with boiled milk for its beneficial effects. Piper longum Linn. (Piperaceae) is being used for treating various ailments like liver disorders, jaundice, respiratory tract infections, tuberculosis, and gonorrhea. Although used since long for gastrointestinal disorder, not much is known about its cytoprotective role in gastrointestinal disorder. The study was designed to investigate the gastoprotective effect of Piper longum milk extract against absolute ethanol induced gastric mucosal damage in mice. The milk extract of Piper longum 200 mg/kg, orally, once daily, was administered to mice for 14 days. Ranitidine (80 mg/kg, p.o.) was used as a standard drug. The severity of gastric mucosal damage induced by absolute ethanol (99%) was analyzed in terms of ulcer index value. The anti-lipid peroxidative activity of piper longum and ranitidine in gastric mucosa was also evaluated. Administration of Piper longum milk extract for 14 days to mice significantly decreased the ulcer index value when compared to vehicle treated animals in ethanol induced gastric ulcer model. Ranitidine (80 mg/kg, p.o.) also produced a significant decrease in ulcer index when compared with the vehicle treated group. However, the anti ulcer activity of ranitidine was higher than that of Piper longum milk extract. Also a significant decrease in TSARS was found following 14 days pretreatment with Piper longum milk extract. Thus, it can be concluded that Piper longum has anti ulcer activity, which can be attributed to its anti-oxidant mechanism of action.

2 illus, 2 tables, 21 ref

007209   Pandey G;Madhuri S (NO, Shri Ram Institute of Technology Pharmacy, Jabalpur-482 001, Email: dr.madhurig8@yahoo.co.in ) : Efficacy of optiliv, a herbal formulatition against oestrogen induced liver damae in female rats. Int J Green Pharm 2007, 1(3-4), 39-41.

Study was undertaken to evaluate the efficacy of OptiLiv, a herbal formulation against oestrogen induced liver damage. Three groups, having six female albino rats (100-160 g) in each group were taken and fed on uniform balanced diet. The rats of group I (normal) were given saline; however, the rats of groups 2 and 3 were administered ethinyl oestradiol (EO)@ 500 ig/kg body weight, orally once a week for 12 weeks. Thereafter, the rats of group 2 were kept for 3 weeks more without any treatment, while the rats of group 3 were administered OptiLiv @ 100 mg/kg, orally daily for 3 weeks. After the experimental periods, all the rats were sacrificed and the histopathological study of liver was performed. On the 16^th week, the liver tissues of the rats of group 2 revealed severe congestion, focal areas of haemorrhage, varying degree of degeneration and necrosis. The stage of telangiectasis and hyperchromatic nuclei of hepatocytes at places, were observed. The central veins were extremely dilated. The fibroblastic proliferation was distinct and at certain places, the sinusoids were distended. However, the liver damage on the 16^th week in the rats of group 3 was of lesser degree and some regeneration of hepatic tissues was also noticed, which suggested that the OptiLiv possesses hepatogenic effect on oestrogen induced liver damage.

2 illus, 17 ref