002255   Manisha;Singh L;Singh S P (Biotechnology Dep, Doon (P G) Paramedical College & Hospital, Dehradun-248 001) : pH levels of simulated acid rain on Phasealus radiatus CVS. P S-16 and K-851. Biochem Cell Archs 2008, 8(1), 105-07.

Simulated acidic rain affected seed vigour, relative seed vigour percentage, seedling survival percentage and other related attributes in two cultivars of Phasealus radiatus. Treatment consisted of four acidic levels in simulated acid rain pH 2.5, 3.5, 4.5 and 5.5. Effect of pH 2.5, 3.5, 4.5 and 5.5 of simulated acid rain on germination percentage, seed germination action index, mean germination frequency etc. on CV. P S-16 and K-851 of Phasealus radiatus L. was studied. High acidic levels were found to be inhibitory for survival of seedling and adversely affected other attributes.

1 tables, 12 ref

002254   Malarvannan S;Giridharan R;Senthil Kumar S; Nair S (NO, M S Swaminathan Research Foundation, III Cross Street, Taramani Instit, Chenni-600 113, Email: malar@mssrf.res.in) : Effect of Argemone mexicana crude extract and fractions on biochemical profile of Helicoverpa armigerra (Hubner) (Noctuidae: lepidoptera). Biochem Cell Archs 2008, 8(1), 45-50.

Argemone mexicana leaf extract and its fractions affected the cellular constituents of Helicoverpa armigera larvae under in vitro conditions. Variation in the total sugar, reducing sugar, total soluble protein and total phenol was observed in the larvae treated with different crude extracts. Acid and alkaline phosphatase activity were high in hexane and petroleum ether extract treatments respectively. The number of protein bands was more in untreated larvae followed by chloroform extract treated larvae. The fraction treated larvae showed an increase in total sugar, while, the reducing sugar, total protein and total phenol were high in untreated larvae. Variation in the number of protein bands between the treatments was also observed. The results indicate that plant extracts can influence the biochemical profile of an insect.

4 illus, 2 tables, 35 ref

002253   Madhu Bala (National Research Centre on DNA Fingerprinting, National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources, New Delhi-110 012, Email: madhu74_nbpgr@yahoo.com) : Software for DNA fingerprinting analyses. Curr Sci 2007, 93(11), 1488-9.

1 illus, 6 ref

002252   Kumudha P (Botany Dep, Vellalar College for Women, Erode-638 009) : Efffect of biofertilizer on the germination of Tamarindis indica linn.. Biochem Cell Archs 2008, 8(1), 11-4.

A study was conducted with the seeds of Tamarindus indica to elucidate the effects of Rhizobiu. (18 g/pot), phosphobacteria (18 g/pot) and VAM fungi (45g/pot) individually and in conjunction on the germination, seedling growth, physiological and biochemical parameters such as chlorophyll 'a' chlorophyll 'b', total chlorophyll, total soluble carbohydrates, reducing sugar, total free aminoacids, total proteins, total free phenolics, N,P,K, Ca and Mg under pot culture conditions. The results indicated that in Tamarindus indica seeds, single inoculation with phosphobacteria enhanced the growth and biochemical parameters and all the employed biofertilizers in general improved the plant growth, biomass and nutrient uptake of the seedlings.

4 tables, 18 ref

002251   Kobayashi S (Graduate School of Asian and African Area Studies, Kyoto Univ, 606-8501 Kyoto, Japan, Email: ksige@asafas.kyoto-u.ac.jp) : Overview of techniques for the rehabilitation of degraded tropical forests and biodiversity conservation. Curr Sci 2007, 93(11), 1596-1603.

Described four topics related to biodiversity conservation through the rehabilitation of degraded tropical forests at the landscape level: (1) development of rehabilitation technology for biodiversity enhancement using secondary succession, (2) site management method for the rehabilitation of degraded land and monoculture plantations using secondary succession, (3) involving local communities in rehabilitation technologies thereby increasing their socio-economic options, (4) overall synthesis of rehabilitation technology. A compartment model has been constructed for the development of response options using rehabilitation technology and socio-economic parameters. Controlling factors consisting of landscape level trade-off and a cyclic term drive the direction and assess the adaptive set of rehabilitation techniques.

6 illus, 38 ref

002250   Katiyar K;Tiwari S C;Kishor K (Microbiology Dep, HNB Garhwal Univ, Srinagar, Garhwal, Uttarakhand) : Antimicrobial susceptibility of various antibiotics against wound associated microorganism. Biochem Cell Archs 2008, 8(1), 23-6.

Study of various clinical samples of wound showed the presence of different microorganisms associated with the wounds in the order viz. Staphylococcus sp. (18) >Streptococcus sp. (15), Lactobacillus sp. (11), Pseudomonas sp. (9), Propionibacterium sp. (7). Out of which only 18 (30%) strains were Coagulase positive Staphylococcus aureus (cops), during Antibiotic susceptibility testing against 21 different broad spectrum and narrow spectrum antibiotics showed good to moderate sensitivity followed by multi drug resistance. Thus highlighting the importance of sensitivity in the treatment of either Coagulase positive Staphylococcus aureus (Cops) or other associated strains in the wounds.

1 illus, 1 tables, 13 ref

002249   Kamble V A;Patil S D (Microbiology Dep, Adarsha Science, J.B. Arts & Birla Commerce Mahavidyalaya, Dhamangaon Rly, Di. Amravati-444 709) : In vitro antibacterial activity of essential oils from important spices. Indian Perfumer 2007, 51(2), 31-5.

Deals with the effect of nine essential oils of common spices for their antimicrobial activity against Gram positive and Gram-negative bacteria by disc diffusion method. Sensitivity of bacteria to various essential oils was compared with standard antibiotic and activity index (AI) was determined. Staphylococcus aureus was the most inhibited bacterium, where as Eschericbia coli (MTCC 118) was the least inhibited. Cumin and thyme oils showed stronger antibacterial activity than other oils. The antibacterial activity of pomegranate oil was found to be least. Gram-positive bacteria were shown to be more sensitive to the essential oils than Gram negative.

1 illus, 1 table, 22 ref

002248   Hussain S G;Ramaiah K V A (Biochemistry Dep, Hyderabad Univ, Hyderabad-500 046, Email: kvarsl@uohyd.ernet.in) : Endoplasmic reticulum: Stress, signalling and apoptosis. Curr Sci 2007, 93(12), 1684-96.

Synthesis, folding and processing of the secretory/ membrane proteins by the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) requires the functioning of ER chaperones, maintenance of ER calcium pools, and an oxidative environment. Disruption of the ER functioning elicits an adaptive signalling cascade called the unfolded protein response (UPR). UPR is triggered by the activation of ER transmembrane proteins and modulated by ER chaperones. It comprises of general inhibition in protein synthesis, induction of ER chaperones, and components of ER-associated protein degradation. UPR is implicated in development, disease and virus infection. Incessant ER stress, through unknown mechanism(s) bolsters the proapoptotic potential of the UPR with a subsequent decline in the adaptation capabilities and initiates cell death. This review highlights the mammalian UPR signalling pathways in general, and the major players implicated in ER stress-induced apoptosis.

1 illus, 100 ref

002247   Gunawardene N R;et al. (Environmental Biology Dep, Curtin Univ of Technology, GPO Box U1987, Perth W A 6845, Australia, Email: n.gunawardene@postgrad.curtin.edu.au) : Brief overview of the western ghats - Sri Lanka biodiversity hotspot. Curr Sci 2007, 93(11), 1567-72.

The Western Ghats of India and Sri Lanka biodiversity hotspot is often regarded as one unit because of shared biogeographical history. However, recent studies suggest that certain faunal components, particularly in the wet zones are distinct. This article looks at the existing information on species richness and endemicity of taxa in both regions. Data are available on some taxa but not on others, and many taxa have not received equal attention in both regions. The natural ecosystems of this hotspot are under threat and urgent conservation action is needed, especially in augmenting the protected area network. There is also the need for increasing the level of scientific collaboration in biodiversity studies between the two countries.

1 table, 73 ref

002246   Dubey P C;Mishra S N;Tiwari A (NO, Govt. Model Science College, A.P.S. Univ, Rewa) : Loss of bio diversity with reference to important medicinal plants in Vindhya region and their threat assessment. J trop For 2007, 23(1-2), 105-27.

Vindhyan region is very rich in plant biodiversity because of it's variety of geology, land shapes like plateau, plane, valley and hill areas. There are variety of climate and altitudinal variations compiled with varied ecological habitants. There are rivers like Son, Narmada, Tons and hill ranges like Vindhyan, Maikal and Satpura lies in this area. Because of various known and unknown reasons biodiversity of the area has been declining rapidly, therefor an understanding of ecological changes and its effects on biodiversity is essential for proper policy making and resource management and biodiversity conservation. By improving the socio-economic status of the local people through various alternatives, by awaking the threat of natural resources and by closely regulating and monitoring of trade and over exploitation the forest can be protected and conserved from further degradation and exploitation.

002245   Davidar P;Arjunan M;Mammen P C;Garrigues J P; Puyravaud J P;Roessingh K (Ecology and Environmental Sciences Dep, Pondicherry Univ, Kalapet, Punducherry-605 014, Email: pdavidar@yahoo.com ) : Forest degradation in the western ghats biodiversity hotspot: resource collection, livelihood concerns and sustainability. Curr Sci 2007, 93(11), 1573-8.

Authors assessed collection intensity of forest products in three regions of the Western Ghats: Kogar, Sigur and KMTR with differing population densities and levels of forest protection. Fuel-wood was intensively collected in all three regions; fodder and green leaves in predominantly agricultural regions and cattle manure in Sigur. Agriculture, wage labour and local and regional markets were associated with resource harvesting. Collection intensity decreased with increasing levels of protection, regardless of human density. Extensive forest degradation in these regions suggests that the intensive use of forests for sustenance and consumption is no longer viable.

3 illus, 3 tables, 47 ref

002244   Chopade V V;Upaganlawar A B;Yeole P G (NO, Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Borgaon (Meghe)-Wardha-442 001) : Antimicrobial activity of Oroxylum indicum root extracts. Antiseptic 2008, 105(3), 146-7.

The antibacterial as well as antifungal acfivity of different extracts of root of Oroxylum indicum was tested by agar diffusion method. Significant antibacterial activity was shown by Chloroform, ethanol and water extracts, whereas no antifungal activity was observed.

5 ref

002243   Chandrasekaran R;Balasundari R; Sivasubramanian V;Cherian K M;Nayak V;Guhathakura S (Cardiovascular Research Dep, , Frontier Life Line, Module No:109, TICEL Biopark, Taramani, Chennai-600 113, Email: soma4828@yahoo.co.uk) : Cytotoxicity and sensitization studies of processed porcine xenografts. Indian J Thoracic Cardiovascular Surg 2007, 23(4), 246-50.

The unlimited requirement of valved graft material and nonavailability of homogratfs has made it necessary to resort to xenogenic sources. Immunogenicity of xenografts plays a vital role in the graft biocompatibility. Immunogenic reaction may lead to calcification and finally graft failure. To render the processed xenografts non-cytotoxic, the xenografts were processed at different stages with chemicals, while keeping a keen check on their toxic properties. Tests were done at various levels in vitro and in vivo to evaluate the cytotoxicity of the processed xenografts. In vitro cytotoxicity studies of the test samples were conducted on Bagg Albino clone mice strain (BALB/C3T3 cell line), using direct and indirect contact method. In vivo toxicity studies were conducted by administering the test sample extracts into Swiss albino male mice. Sensitization studies were performed on Guinea pigs. Test extracts were administered to the animals over the period of induction phase; topical induction phase and challenge phase. The processed xenograft tissues when subjected to in vitro cytotoxicity test with BALB/C3T3 cell line and the in vivo tests did not show any cytotoxicity. The studies proved that the processing methodology rendered the xenografts non-cytotoxic and safe for clinical use.

1 illus, 3 tables, 24 ref

002242   Begum J;Yusuf M;Chowdhury J U;Husain M M; Hossain M E;Ahmed S;Anwar M N (BCSIR Laboratories, , Chittagong-4200, Bangladesh) : Composition and antifungal activity of essential oil of leaves of Cinnamomum verum Presl. grown in Bangladesh. Indian Perfumer 2007, 51(2), 69-71.

Leaves of Cinnamomum verum Presl. grown in Chittagong, on hydrodistillation yielded 1.25% (v/w) oil. Thirty five compounds representing 98.62% of the oil, analyzed by GC/MS, were identified. The major constituents were eugenol (72.54%), eugenyl acetate (10.0) and cinnamaldehyde (3.79). The oil possessed strong antifungal activity against seven phytopathogens tested. The minimum inhibitory concentration of the oil against Fusarium equiseti, Curvularia lunata and Alternaria alternata was found to be 250ppm followed by Drechslera oryzae, Macrophomina phaseolina and Botrydiplodia theobromae, 750 ppm. Curvularia lunata showed greater resistance towards this oil and MIC was found to be 1500 ppm.

2 tables, 10 ref

002241   Bamola N;Vats P;Singh L;Neetu;Shyam S (Microbiology Dep, SBS Institute Balawala, Dehradun-248 001) : Antifungal activity of some medicinal plant of Garhwal. Biochem Cell Archs 2008, 8(1), 15-7.

The ethanolic extracts of Prunus cerasoides D. Don (leaves & stem bark), Pyrus pashia Buch. Ham, Rhus parviflora Roxb, Myrica esculenta Buch. Ham Ex.D.Don, Premna barbata Wallich and Artemisia capillaris Thunb (leaves and stem bark) were screened for their antifungal activity against three opportunistic fungi, viz. Aspergillus niger, A. fumigatus and Penicilllum citrinum and three dermatophytic fungi, viz. Microsporum canis, M. gypsum and Trichophyton rubrum employing thin layer vacuum evaporator for crude plant extractions, TLC method for fraction separation and Agar well diffusion and Disc diffusion method for antifungal activity. MFCs were also determined and obtained fungitoxic results are reported herein.

2 tables, 21 ref

002240   Balasundari R;Gupta R;Sivasubramanian V; Chandrasekaran R;Arumugam S;Cherian K M;Guhathakurta S (NO, , Frontier Life Line, Module No: 109, Ticel Biopark, Taramani, Chennai-600 113, Email: soma4828@yahoo.co.uk) : Complete microbe free processed porcine xenograft for clinical use. Indian J Thoracic Cardiovascular Surg 2007, 23(4), 240-45.

Xenogenic organ replacement from pig to human is a possibility provided sterility and immunogenicity are taken care of. The objective of this study was to check the sterility of processed porcine pulmonary xenografts to mark them 'safe' for clinical application, without the threat for xenozoonoses. A total of 148 porcine pulmonary valve conduits were screened pre and post processing for bacterial, fungal and viral contamination. The bacterial and fungal contaminants such as Candida species, filamentous fungus, yeast like organisms, gram negative bacteria and porcine endogenous retrovirus (PERV) were isolated from the preprocessed porcine conduits. These harvested conduits were collected in a cocktail of antimicrobials and Hanks balanced salt solution. Next, they were subjected to 'processing' i.e., made completely acellular, strong and biocompatible in all respects. Finally, sterility checks were carried out for bacterial, fungal and viral (PERV) contamination. Microbial evaluation performed in this study revealed that the porcine pulmonary conduits were made 'microbe free' on subjecting to the special staged decellularization technique. The porcine xenograft conduit processed in the laboratory, which has an added advantage of numbers and sizes, can replace the gold standard homograft safely.

3 illus, 5 tables, 25 ref

002239   Aruldoss K;Subramanian R;Saravanan K (Biotechnology Dep, Bharath College of Scicene and Management, Thanjavur-613 005) : Effect of sublethal dose of lead on histological changes in intestine of male tree frog, Polypedates macultus (gray). Biochem Cell Archs 2008, 8(1), 77-9.

Studies on the effect of sublethal dose of lead on male tree frog, Polypedates maculatus was studied for30 days. Intestine tissue were removed after 30 days of experiment for histological examinations. The intestine showed marked histopathological changes like damaged villi, damaged muscular layer, vacuolization and pycnotic nucleus in experimental animals.

3 illus, 22 ref

002238   Aberomand M;Bhide S V;Hossieni S A (Biochemistry Dep, Ahwaz Jondishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahwaz, Iran) : Effect of metal ions, determination of molecular weigh and chemical modification of a novel chickpea seeds acid phosphatase. Biochem Cell Archs 2008, 8(1), 19-21.

Previously purified a novel acid phosphatase activity (orthophosphoric monoester phosphohydrolase, EC 3.1.3.2) from chickpea seeds. Acid phosphatase purification has been done by Gel filtration on Biogel P-100, concanavalin A (Con A)-Sepharose and cation-exchange chromatography. The enzyme was purified about 839.7-fold over the homogenate with 19.4 % recovery to apparent homogeneity. In this paper, acid phosphatase molecular weight was determined by gel filtration chromatography (26.302 KDa) and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (27.317 KDa). The enzyme is inhibited 48 % by 4 mM Hg⁺⁺ and 75 % by 4 mM Cu⁺⁺. Chemical modification studies revealed the involvement of tryptophan for enzyme activity. The enzyme was activated 100% by 4 mM Mg⁺⁺, 100% by Mn⁺⁺ and 100% by Ca⁺⁺.

2 illus, 1 tables, 10 ref

002237   Aberomand M;Bhide S V;Hosseiny S A (Biochemistry Dep, Ahwaz Jondishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahwaz, Iran) : Molecular mass determination, effect of matal ions and chemical modification of chickpea seed's Beta-d-galactosidase. Biochem Cell Archs 2008, 8(1), 27-8.

Previous studies from this laboratory have identified β-D-galactosidase from chickpea seeds. This enzyme was purified to 1338.6 fold. The purpose of the present study is to determination of molecular mass, effect of metal ions and chemical modification on chickpea seed's β-D-galactosidase. Based upon SDS-PAGE analysis, β-D-galactosidase is a homodimer with molecular weight of 15.600 Daltons.Ag²⁺ had inhibitory effect on β-galactosidase. Chemical modification studies revealed involvement of tryptophan for enzyme activity.

2 tables, 14 ref

001236   Yadav H L;Saxena A R;Ali S J (Botany Dep, D A V P G College, Azamgarh) : In Vitro control of Klebsiella spp. by some higher plants. Indian J appl pure Biol 2007, 22(2), 315-16.

Two hundred seventy four samples (plant parts) belonging to 199 species of higher plants were extracted in 50% ethanol in 1:5 ratio. These extracts were screened for their antibacterial activity against the test pathogen Klebsiella spp. by 'Inhibition zone technique. The extract of the aerial part of Achyranthes, aspera Linn. was found to be the most active, forming the largest inhibition zone in the experimentation. Further studies on this plant, to find out the active fraction, are in progress.

9 ref

001235   Sultana P;Beg M Z (Botany Dep, S N P G College, Azamgarh-276-001) : Effect of vitamins on Cicer arietinum L. var. pusa-256. Indian J appl pure Biol 2007, 22(2), 347-52.

Vitamins are organic compounds required in small quantity for proper growth and development of plants. Vitamin B1 (thiamin) B6 (pyridoxine) and C (ascorbic acid) are required by the root for their growth as secondary factors therefore, we have planned to observe the cummulative effect of these vitamins on germination potential, seedling growth and several morphological characters of Cicer arietinum L. van Pusa-256. The data regarding germination, seedling growth and some morphological characters showed a positive influence on almost all the characters studied except germination potential.

2 tables, 22 ref

001234   Sreejith P;Oommen O V (Zoology Dep, University of Kerala, Kariavattom, Thiruvananthapuram-695 581) : Tri-iodothyronine alters superoxide dismutase expression in ateleost Anabas testudineus. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2008, 45(6), 393-8.

The effect of tri-iodothyronine (T₃) on superoxide dismutase (SOD) expression was evaluated in a teleost Anabas testudineus (euthyroid fish) by native gel electrophoresis and Western blot analysis. SOD is an essential enzyme for the survival of oxygen-utilizing organisms. Its expression is altered by the stress, presumably due to the increase in concentration of superoxide radical in cells. Variations of thyroid hormone levels are the major physiological modulators of cellular oxidative stress. T₃ administration generates an oxidative stress, which to some extent is neutralized by the changed activity of enzymes like SOD. T₃ treatment decreased CuZn SOD density in liver and brain of A. testudineus. The activity of CuZn SOD in liver and brain was confirmed by native gel analysis. The different physiological states of thyroid influenced the CuZn SOD activity. Western blot analysis further confirmed that liver and brain CuZn SOD decreased after T₃ treatment. From these findings, it was clear that T₃ treatment in euthyroid fish created an oxidative stress condition and thyroid hormone effectively maintained antioxidant status to overcome this situation in teleosts.

001233   Solanki G K;Amin A;Padhiyar A;Ray A K;Oza T (Physics Dep, Sardar Patel University, Vallabh Vidyanagar-388 120) : Polaron hopping in some biomolecular solids and their charge transfer complexes. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2008, 45(6), 421-9.

The solid state spectroscopy of charge transfer complexes of biomolecules such as fatty acids, tripalmitin, lysozyme. folic acid, á-carotene, cytochrome c, valinomycin and gramicidin has been carried out. The absorption coefficient is related with electronic conductivity. A half-power beta density is found common among these macromolecular solids, indicating photon-induced polaron hopping or hopping of a charge carrier between two branches of a polariton. Band gap vs full width at half-maximum of the mid-IR peak also reveals a linear relation.

001232   Sharma P S;Tyagi R;Sharma R (Chemistry Dep, C.S.S.S. (PG) College, Machhra, Meerut-250 003) : Semi-empirical calculations on paullones, a promising class of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2008, 45(6), 416-20.

Paullones, a group of ATP-competitive 7,12-dihydroindolo [3,2-d][1]benzazepin-6(5H)-ones are well-established cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) inhibitors with promising anti-tumoral properties. In this study, AM1 (Austin model 1) calculations have been performed on paullones and their biological activities have been explained with respect to their HOMO and LUMO energies. 9-Substituted paullones with electrophilic character show high potencies. The interaction of 9th substitutent with Phe-80 of receptor plays a key role in binding and potency. The study will help medicinal chemists to design efficient CDK inhibitiors.

001231   Sharma C;Budhraja N;Chatterjee S (NO, Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany, Lucknow-226 007) : Pollen grain studies in the environs of Tajmahal, Agra. J Palaeont Soc India 2007, 52(1), 111-17.

Attempts to evaluate the palynoflora in the environs of the Taj complex. The overall pollen assemblage depicts that the environs of Taj are charged with palynomorphs from higher as well as lower plant groups which include trees, shrubs, herbs, ferns, bryophytes, fungi, etc. However, a few recovered taxa are most probably exotic as they do not grow cither in the area or in the vicinity. Pollen analysis of spider's webs in the present study has opened an important frontier in evaluating the modern pollen rain. Spider's webs are often quite rich in pollen/spores, etc., and have proved to be a reliable parameter, particularly when soil samples are cither unproductive or remain poor in pollen yield. Furthermore, comparison of recovered taxa from surface soil and web has amply demonstrated that spider's webs are as good as soil samples and sometimes even better for pollen rain studies. Retrieval of fungal spores from the walls of the main gate of the Taj complex, must be taken care of as their deposition is very likely to affect the lustre of the marble monument in the long run.

2 illus, 1 table, 9 ref

001230   Roy S;Dharmadhikari J;Dharmadhikari A;Mathur D;Sharma S (Biological Sciences Dep, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Colaba, Mumbai) : P. falciparum-infected erythrocytes and induced anisotropies under optical and fluid forces. J Vector Borne Dis 2007, 44(1), 23-32.

The effect of P. falciparum on erythrocytes has been studied for a long time at the population level but actual studies at the single cell level remain largely unexplored. The aim of this study was to address the host-parasite relationship at the single cell level under two different kinds of forces, an optical force and a fluid force. The questions addressed were about the basic host-parasite interactions, but these findings have larger implications in diverse fields of parasite biology. Erythrocytes were monitored under optical forces (using optical tweezers) and fluid forces (using microfluidic chambers) and dynamical images were captured in real-time video clips. These videos were then split into their respective frames so as to yield temporal information and various parameters pertaining to membrane structure, ionic imbalance and interaction with different forces were studied. The results of this study mainly bring to fore the inherent differences between infected and normal cell populations at the single cell level under various external forces. Probed three different criteria folding times, rotation speeds and rolling frequency to show inherent difference in various cell populations and also the dependence of the above to the cycle of the parasite. This study portrays the importance of single cell observations pertaining to the host-parasite relationship. It shows the effect the malarial parasite has on erythrocytes and how the intrinsic property of the infected and its neighbouring uninfected cells change as compared to normal erythrocytes. There are thus implications in the fields of cytoadherence, parasite invasions and host immune evasion.

4 illus, 32 ref

001229   Reddy B P;Reddy K R N;Rao M S;Rao K S (Chemistry and Biochemistry Dep, Acharya Nagarjuna Univ, Nuzvid campus, Nuzvid-521 201, Email: b_p_reddy2002@yahoo.com) : Efficacy of antimicrobial metabolites of Pseudomonas fluorescens against rice fungal pathogens. Curr Trends Biotechnol Pharm 2008, 2(1), 178-82.

Ten isolates of Pseudomonas fluorescens obtained from rice rhizosphere were tested for antifungal activity against Magnaporthe grisea, Dreschelaria oryzae, Rhizoctonia solani and Sarocladium oryzae that are known to attack rice plants. One isolate, P. fluorescens 8 effectively inhibited the mycelial growth in all these fungi in dual culture tests (50-85%). All the ten isolates of P. fluorescens were tested for the production of siderophore, hydrogen cyanide and salicylic acid. The isolate P. fluorescens 8 showed higher production of siderophore, HCN and salicylic acid.

2 tables, 16 ref

001228   Rao G M;Shetty B V;Sudha K (Biochemistry Dep, Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore-575 004, Email: beenashtty@yahoo.co.in) : Evaluation of lead toxicity and antioxidants in battery workers. Biomed Res 2008, 19(1), 1-4.

Oxidative damage has been proposed as one of the possible mechanisms involved in Pb toxicity. To investigate this hypothesis we estimated various blood antioxidants in 25 battery workers. Lead was analysed by Anodic stripping voltametry (ASV), all other parameters by spectrophotometric methods. Lead level was significantly high in battery workers (p=0.000). Erythrocyte superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity significantly decreased (p=0.00), whereas reduced glutathione (GSH) significantly increased (p< 0.01) compared to controls. Other enzymes viz., ceruloplasmin (CPL), gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT) and catalase (CT) were in normal range. RBC lipid peroxidation and percentage hemoly sis remained unaltered. There was a strong negative correlation between blood lead level and SOD activity in the study group. Therefore, the changes in the levels of some antioxidants may play an important role in abating hazards of lead poisoning.

1 tables, 28 ref

001227   Rao A;Yeleswarapu S J;Srinivasan R;Bulusu G (Life Sciences R&D Div, TCS Innovation Labs, Hyderabad) : Localization of heme biosynthesis pathway enzymes in Plasmodium falciparum. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2008, 45(6), 365-73.

Protein trafficking in the malarial parasite Plasmodium falciparum is dictated by a complex life-cycle that involves a variety of intra-cellular and host cell destinations, such as the mitochondrion, apicoplast, rhoptries and micronemes. Of these, the apicoplast and mitochondrion are believed to account for more than 10 of this traffic. Studies have shown that mechanisms for mitochondrion and apicoplast targeting are distinct, despite their close physical proximity. The heme biosynthesis pathway spans both these organelles, making trafficking studies crucial for the spatial demarcation of the constituent interactions. This mini review highlights the challenges in identifying the possible sub-cellular destinations of the heme pathway enzymes using gleanings from literature survey as well as focussed bioinformatic analysis.

001226   Patibandla P K;Venkatesh V;Agarwal G G; Awasthi S;Husain N;Ahuja R C;Swastika S;Agarwal S K (Microbiology Dep, King George's Medical Univ, Lucknow) : Effect of EDTA and ACD on blood storage for the detection of Plasmodium faciparum by PCR. J Vector Borne Dis 2007, 44(1), 69-71.

^ssc10 ref

001225   Nagalakshmi S;Venkat Jothi R;Subrahmanyam A (Microbiology Dep, Sengunther Institute of P.G. Study and Research, Tiruchengode, Tamilnadu, Email: mycothermal@yahoo.co.in) : Zygambella phusphophila Gen. & Sp. Nov.. Curr Trends Biotechnol Pharm 2008, 2(1), 198-200.

Zygambella phosphophila S. Nagalakshmi and A. Subrahm, Gen. & Sp. Nov. is described. It resembles Rhizopodopsis in having umbellate sporangiophores but differs from it in the structure of zygospores, which are similar to those found in Zygorhynchus. Morphological and culture characters of Phosphophila are presented.

1 illus, 2 ref

001224   Mwangangi J M;Mbogo C M;Muturi E J;Nzovu J G; Githure J I;Yan G;Minakawa N;NovaK R;Beier J C (NO, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Centre for Geographic Medicine Resea, Kilifi, Kenya) : Spatial distribution and habitat characterisation of Anopheles larvae along the Kenyan coast. J Vector Borne Dis 2007, 44(1), 44-51.

A study was conducted to characterise larval habitats and to determine spatial heterogeneity of the Anopheles mosquito larvae. The study was conducted from May to June 1999 in nine villages along the Kenyan coast. Aquatic habitats were sampled by use of standard dipping technique. The habitats were characterised based on size, pH, distance to the nearest house, coverage of canopy, surface debris, algae and emergent plants, turbidity, substrate, and habitat type. A total of 110 aquatic habitats like stream pools (n = 10); puddles (n = 65); tire tracks (n = 5); ponds (n = 5) and swamps (n = 25) were sampled in nine villages located in three districts of the Kenyan coast. A total of 7,263 Anopheles mosquito larvae were collected, 63.9% were early instars and 36.1% were late instars. Morphological identification of the III and IV instar larvae by use of microscopy yielded 90.66% (n = 2,377) Anopheles gambiae Complex, 0.88% (n = 23) An. funestus, An. coustani 7.63% (n = 200), An. rivulorum 0.42% (n = 11), An. pharoensis 0.19% (n = 5), An. swahilicus 0.08% (n = 2), An. wilsoni 0.04% (n = 1) and 0.11 % (n = 3) were unidentified. A subset of the An. gambiae Complex larvae identified morphologically, was further analysed using rDNA-PCR technique resulting in 68.22% (n = 1,290) An. gambiae s.s., 7.93% (n = 150) An. arabiensis and 23.85% (n = 451) An. merus. Multiple logistic regression model showed that emergent plants (p = 0.019), and floating debris (p = 0.038) were the best predictors of An. gambiae larval abundance in these habitats. Habitat type, floating debris and emergent plants were found to be the key factors determining the presence of Anopheles larvae in the habitats. For effective larval control, the type of habitat should be considered and most productive habitat type be given a priority in the mosquito abatement programme.

3 tables, 20 ref

001223   Murthy M R N (Molecular Biophysics Unit, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore-560 012) : Personal account of virus structure determination at the Indian institute of science, Bangalore. J Indian Inst Sci 2007, 87(2), 279-99.

Virus particles are excellent models for understanding the specificity of protein - protein and protein - nucleic acid interactions and mechanisms of biological assembly. Detailed investigations were done on the structure, stability and assembly of two isometric plant viruses, Sesbania mosaic virus (SeMV) and Physalis mottle virus (PhMV). The protein coat of SeMV consists of 180 protein subunits of molecular mass 29 kDa. It encapsidates a ss - RNA genome of 4149 bases. The genome of PhMV is a ss - RNA of size 6.67 kb encapsidated in an icosahedral shell of 180 identical coat protein (CP) subunits of molecular mass 20 kDa. The spatial arrangements of protein subunits in both the virus particles confirms to a T = 3 icosahedral lattice. The three dimensional X-ray structures of these viruses and a large number of their recombinant capsids have been determined. It was necessary to develop new algorithms and write a large number of programs for the determination of these structures. The stability of SeMV and PhMV particles are based on very different interactions. The capsid stability of SeMV depends on protein - protein, protein - nucleic acid and calcium mediated protein - protein interactions. In contrast, PhMV particles are stabilized predominantly by hydrophobic interactions between coat protein subunits. An analysis of the structural, biochemical and biophysical properties of the native SeMV, its recombinant capsid and several of its mutants has led to the understanding of the detailed pathway for the assembly of SeMV. Comparative structural analysis of the native and recombinant capsids of PhMV and studies on the assembly and stability properties of a large number of site specific and deletion mutants have suggested that the subunit folding and particle assembly are concerted events in this virus.

^iia14 illus, 28 ref

001222   Mir R A;Chishti M Z;Zarger M A;Ganie S A (P G Dep of Zoology, Kashmir Univ, Kashmir-190 006, Email: mn_786yaz@yahoo.co.in) : Usefulness of excretory-secretory antigen of Haemonchus contortus in the diagosis of haemonchosis. Indian J appl pure Biol 2007, 22(2), 245-8.

This study was designed to detect and evaluate the antigenicity of excretory secretory antigens of Haemonchus contortus in haemonchosis. Although heamonchosis is diagnosed by coprological examination but ELISA technique is widely used because of its convenience. Serodiagnosis of haemonchosis by ELISA was tested in the present study. The diagnostic proficiency, the cross reactivity with the sera of sheep naturally infected with Ostertagia circumcincta, Bunostomum were compared with the hyperimmune sera raised against excretory secretory antigens of Haemonchus contortus. A total of 138 sera samples were collected from sheep confirmed positive for Ostertagia circumcincta, Bunostomum trigonocepha/um and Trichuris ovis by coprological examination. The diagnostic sensitivity of ELISA using excretory secretory antigen was 87.55% and specificity 92.02%. The results revealed that excretory secretory antigens are very sensitive and may be useful as a supplementary method for the diagnosis of haemonchosis in ruminants.

3 tables, 10 ref

001221   Majid N;Ahmad S;Saleem S (NO, , C/o Saman Traders, Bhat Shopping Complex, Near Super Bazaar Sopore Kashmir-193 201) : Extraction, purification and immuno-detection of Glutathion S-transferase (GST). Indian J appl pure Biol 2007, 22(2), 241-4.

GST proteins from E. coll were obtained by over- expressing the GST gene located on a genetically engineered plasmid (PGEX-3X vector) inserted into the E. coll cell. GST codes for the enzyme Glulathione-S-transferase that has a molecular mass of approx. 26KD. The E. coll cells were lysed using buffer that breaks open the cell membranes releasing all the contents of the cell. Glutathione bound- agarose beads were added to the total soluble extract to bind the GST proteins and to isolate then from the pool of proteins available within the unpurified extract of the cell. The beads were removed from the slurry and the covalent linkage between the beads and the glutathione was broken using a phosphate buffer solution. SDS- polyacrylamicle gel was run to identify the separate proteins present within our extracted sample along with the marker. To confirm the protein of interest a Western blot assay was performed. The SDS-PAGE gel made it apparent that protein had a molecular mass of about 26KD which coincides nicely with the known marker of Glutathione-S-transferase Western blot analysis also confirmed the presence of the GST protein at about 26KD.

3 illes, 5 ref

001220   Mahalaxmi Y;Subba Rao C;Suvarnalaxmi G;Satish T;Sudhakar P;Prakasham R S (NO, Bioengineering and Environmental Centre, Hyderabad-500 007, Email: prakasam@iict.res.in) : Rifamycin B production pattern in Nocardia RSP-3 strain and influence of barbital on antibiotic production. Curr Trends Biotechnol Pharm 2008, 2(1), 208-16.

Rifamycin B is a polyketide antibiotic from ansamycin family with a pronounced anti-mycobacterial activity and is extensively used in clinical treatment of tuberculosis and leprosy. The present outbreak of AIDS-related mycobacterial infections further boosted the scientific research to improve this antibiotic production using novel microbial system. In the present investigation, rifamycin B production pattern was studied under submerged fermentation using isolated Nocardia RSP-3 strain. The strain was tested for its antibiotic productivity using complex medium consisting of soyabean meal, glucose, and calcium carbonate. The analysis of growth vs antibiotic production pattern revealed that antibiotic production in this strain is started in exponential phase and maximum accumulation occurred in late stationary and death phases indicated mixed growth associated nature. Variation of carbon source supplementation improved the productivity from 800 - 1200 mg/liter with 10% (w/v) glucose addition. The effect of addition of barbital to the fermentation medium was studied in detail. A 100% improvement was found with barbital supplementation along with fermentation medium components. However, its supplementation at different age cultures denoted further enhancement in rifamycin B productivity (approximately 120%) in this strain. Up on optimization, the antibiotic productivity was improved more than 8 times.

8 illus, 20 ref

001219   Lee S at all (Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Dep, Medical Science and Engineering Research Center for Bioreaction to Rea, Seoul 130-701, Korea) : New method for purification of functional recombinant GST-cyclophilin a protein from E. coli. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2008, 45(6), 374-8.

The expression of glutathione-S-transferase (GST) fusion protein is extensively utilized in the study of protein-protein interactions. In the commonly used purification method, the overexpressed GST fusion protein is bound to the glutathione (GSH)-coupled resins via affinity chromatography, and then eluted by an excessive quantity of reduced GSH. However, this technique has certain limitations, such as low product purity, retention of GSH in the sample, as well as relatively high cost. To overcome these limitations, in this study, elution buffer containing 2 formic acid was utilized rather than GSH to elute the GST-fusion protein, and thereafter the acidic samples were neutralized using collecting buffer. By using this method, highly purified GST-cyclophilin A (CypA) fusion protein was obtained, without affecting the structural and functional characteristics such as PPIase and chaperone activities. Moreover, the procedure is also cost-effective, due to the low cost of formic acid as compared with GSH.

001218   Kondepati V R;Michael Heise H (NO, ISAS-Institute for Analytical Sciences at the Technical Univ of Dortm, Bunsen-Krichhoff Strasse 11, D-44139, Dortmund, Germany, Email: heise@isas.de) : Potential of mid- and near-infrared spectroscopy for reliable monitoring of bioprocesses. Curr Trends Biotechnol Pharm 2008, 2(1), 117-32.

The processes involved in bioreactors are complex and a detailed monitoring of the chemical composition of gaseous, liquid and solid matter involved in the bioprocess is of crucial importance for efficient operation. However, only a few parameters can be reliably monitored in real time with commercially available instrumentation, but there is a growing demand and need for effective and efficient process monitoring tools. Infrared (IR) spectroscopy has proved to be a powerful method for the study of various biomedical and bioanalytical applications. In this paper, applications of this analytical method for bioprocess monitoring have been discussed by reviewing the relevant literature from the last ten years. Furthermore, recent advances in our laboratory in the field of bio-reactor monitoring by use of mid-IR attenuated total reflection (ATR) spectroscopy and the development of mid-IR sensor systems for continuous biofluid monitoring based on transmission spectroscopy have also been addressed.

10 illus, 2 tables, 65 ref

001217   Kaiissar-Mannoor M;Tsukanoto M;Watanabe H; Yamaguchi K;Sato Y (Social and Environmentel Medical Dep. Faculty of Medicine, Universitry of the Ryukyus, Uehara 207, Nishihara Okinawa 903-0215, Japan, Email: Kaiissar@med.u-ryukyu.ac.jp) : Efficacy of royal jelly in the restoration of stree-induced disturbance of lymphocytes and granulocytes. Biomed Res 2008, 19(2), 69-77.

Restraint stress has been reported to suppress the conventional T and B lymphocyte responses, while inversely activating the granulocyte response in the peripheral blood. Since royal jelly (RJ) helps the body to cope with stress and fatigue, we asked whether RJ could restore the stress-induced dysregulatory numbers of lymphocytes and granulocytes in the peripheral blood and different organs such as the spleen, liver and thymus. In unstressed mice, we did not observe any significant change in the number of these immune cells in the peripheral blood and organs examined, regardless of the administration of RJ and PBS as a control. On the other hand, the mice which were subjected to the restraint stress without RJ administration showed significantly decreased numbers of total lymphocytes, including both T and B lymphocytes, but a significantly higher granulocyte number in the peripheral blood. The stress also affected a decrease in the total MNCs in the spleen and thymus. The RJ administration to these stressed mice showed a significant effect to restore the dysregulatory number of total lymphocytes, T and B lymphocytes, and granulocytes in the peripheral blood. The RJ administration to the stressed mice also partially restored the absolute numbers of total MNCs in the thymus, which was prone to the development of severe atrophy. These findings provide interesting evidence that RJ did not affect the immune function in the normal situation but exhibits an anti-stress effect through the well-balanced restoration of the dysregulation of immune cells under the stressed condition.

9 illus, 30 ref

001216   Gupta S;Mahmood S;Khan R H;Mahmood A;Hasan R (Biochemistry Dep, Panjab University, Chandigarh-160 014) : Effect of Na<. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2008, 45(6), 399-403.

Intestinal brush border sucrase-isomaltase (sucrose D-glucosidase E.C. 3.2.1.48, E.C. 3.2.1.10) exhibits pH-dependent stimulatory or inhibitory effects in response to Na⁺ ions. However, whether the enzyme undergoes conformational modulations as a function of pH and in the presence of alkali metal ions is not known. In this paper, we investigated the structural and functional relationship of purified murine sucrase in response to pH and Na⁺ ions using UV-CD fluorescence and spectroscopic studies. Kinetic studies revealed that at pH 5.0, the enzyme activation by Na⁺ ions was V-type, which changed to K-type at pH 7.2, whereas at alkaline pH (8.5), Na⁺ ions inhibited the enzyme activity and inhibition was uncompetitive in nature, affecting both the Km and Vmax components. Far UV-CD spectra of protein at pH 7.2 in the absence and presence of Na+ were almost overlapping, suggesting that secondary structure of protein was not affected upon addition of the salt. However, near UV-CD spectra indicated marked alterations in the tertiary structure of protein in presence of 50 mM Na⁺ ions. Increase in pH from 7.2 to 8.5 resulted in a marked rise in fluorescence intensity and red shift in λmax due to tryptophan residues in the enzyme molecule. These findings suggested that alterations in enzyme activity as a function of pH and Na⁺ ions was associated with ionization of key amino acid residues together with structural modifications in the enzyme conformation around neutral or alkaline pH.

001215   Gupta A;Murali Gopal (Microbiology Dep, Central Plantation Crops Research Institute, Kudlu P.O., Kasaragod-671 124) : Siderophore production by plant growth promoting rhizobacteria. Indian J agric Res 2008, 42(2), 153-6.

Under iron-limiting conditions, many bacteria secrete ferric iron-specific ligands, generically termed siderophores, which aid in sequestering and transport of iron. Reports the production of siderophores by selected plant growth promoting rhizobacteria. Production of siderophores by plant growth promoting rhizobacteria was detected via the chrome azurol S assay, a general test for siderophores, which is independent of siderophore structure.

1 illus, 3 tables, 17 ref

001214   Dangi C B S;Sharma N C;Purey S (Human Genetics Dep, Barkatullah Univ, Bhopal-462 026) : Analysis of haemoglobin variants by cation exchange HPLC (high performance liquid chromatography). Oriental J Chem 2007, 23(1), 233-8.

Analysis of Haemoglobin Variants in present study was identified by cation exchange HPLC among 50 clinically suspected cases of haemoglobinopathies in population of Bhopal. Out of the 50 cases of haemoglobin disorders, the largest group was formed by variant of beta-thalassaemia (58%), out of which beta-thalasaemia minor constituted 22% of the patients and beta-thalassaemia intermedia and major constituted 18% each. The Sickling disorders formed the second largest group (38%) with Sickle beta-thalassaemia and Sickle cell anaemia comprising 22% and 16% respectively. In variant of Sickle beta-thalassaemia, seven cases had Sickle beta thalassaemia and four cases had Sickle beta^o thalassaemia. Haemoglobin variant of E beta-thalassaaemia formed the remaining 4% of the cases. One patient of Thalassaemia minor also showed an unknown peak of 18.6% in the HPLC system at a retention time of 1.93 mins. On screening, his father was also found to have a peak of 20.6% appearing at the same retention time.

7 illus, 6 tables, 13 ref

001213   Dahiya P;Subash Chand;Chaudhury A;Dilbaghi N (Bio & Nano Technology Dep, Guru Jambheshwar Univ of Science & Technology, Hisar-125 001, Email: neeraj_dilbaghi@yahoo.co.in) : Lipase production by Pseudomonas mendocina M-37 in batch and continuous culture. Agric biol Res 2008, 24(1), 18-29.

Growth and lipase production by Pseudomonas mendocina M-37 lipase was studied in a 3L fermentor. Olive oil (1% concentration) and glycine (1%) were used as carbon and nitrogen sources. Lipase production was enhanced to 16.2 IU/mL in 22 h in the fermentor as compared to 15 IU/mL in 24 h in shake flask under optimized medium parameters. Lipase activity decreased with the increase in pH of the medium. Amino acid glycine was found to be effective for the release of enzyme lipase accompanied by lysis of cell. In order to obtain high productivity of lipase from Pseudomonas mendocina M-37, cell growth and enzyme formation were investigated in both batch and continuous fermentation. Compared to batch fermentation, the continuous process gave a lower enzyme yield except when the fermentation was conducted at a dilution rate of 0.02 h^-1. On the basis of relationship between specific enzyme synthesis rate and specific growth rate, repression of lipase synthesis by oleic acid was observed in both batch and continuous processes.

3 illus, 18 ref

001212   Cortezi M;Cilli E M;Contiero J (Biochemistry and Microbiology Dep, Biological Sciences Institute, Sao Paulo State Univ-Unesp, Sao Paulo, Brazil, Email: jconti@rc.unesp.br) : Bacillus amyloliquefaciens: A new keratinolytic feather-degrading bacteria. Curr Trends Biotechnol Pharm 2008, 2(1), 170-7.

Feather-degrading microorganisms were isolated from a poultry processing industry. The microorganism that presented high degradation of feathers was LM16, reaching 97.7% after 72 h of fermentation. Using morphological and biochemical tests [API 20 E (Bio-Merieux)], the strain was identified as Bacillus amyloliquefaciens. The keratinase production and, cell growth were affected by culture conditions. The optimal conditions for enzyme production were 40C, 150 rpm, 1% of feather and pH 7.5, resulting in an activity of 187.5 U/mL. The results reveal that the release of amino acids, as evidenced through thin-layer chromatography, in the broth of the Bacillus amyloliquefacines culture can allow its use in animal feed industries (meal feather).

8 illus, 1 table, 31 ref

001211   Bhowmick A;Krishnan L;Salunke D (Structural Biology Unit, National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi-110 067, Email: dinakar@nii.res.in) : Structural immunology: mechanisms of antigen recognition. J Indian Inst Sci 2007, 87(2), 301-7.

Mechanisms of antigen recognition by the immune system have been extensively addressed during past two decades. Ingeniously designed X-ray crystallographic experiments have provided great insights with regard to antigenic specificity and self/non-self discrimination, the hallmark of the adaptive immune system. These studies have also helped shed light on the mechanistic aspects of the immune recognition potential and the molecular events necessary for a successful immune response. Our laboratory has made important contributions in understanding the physiological processes associated with self-nonself discrimination in terms of physico-chemical principles of molecular interactions. Crystallographic approaches were employed in analyzing how immune system reacts when encountered with the antigens that keep changing shape. We have addressed the breakdown in specificity of immune recognition by providing molecular insights into the functional mimicry. The conundrum of a limited antibody repertoire faced with an infinite range of antigens was also addressed demonstrating that while the pluripotency of germline antibodies can be expressed through an ensemble of conformational states, each one of these states was itself capable of recognizing a wide range of antiqens throuah varied iuxtapositions.

^iia3 illus, 29 ref

001210   Bhattacharya A;Mukherjee A (Botany Dep, Golapbag Campus, Burdwan Univ, Bardhaman, West Bengal-713 104) : Biological spectrum of Bishtupur forest (Molandighi), Durgapur Range, West Bengal. Indian J appl pure Biol 2007, 22(2), 259-64.

Biological spectrum of Bishtupur Forest (Molandighi), a tropical community, reveals that per hundred species of its flora, 36.96 are phanerophytes, 21.73 chamaephytes, 11.96 hemicryptophytes, 15.22 cryptophytes and 14.13 therophytes. The phanero-chamaephytic phytoclimate indicates moist, warm, humid tropical nature of thegeoclimate. However, less ratio of phanerophytes, scarcity of hemicryptophytes, abundance of chamaephytes, cryptophytes and therophytes in comparison with Raunkiaer's normal spectrum, indicate that the site is ecologically disturbed and the soil in the site is at the risk of erosion. So canopy and tree protection and water management and soil conservation are deemed essential here. Endeavour of The Forest Department to establish some 20 more species of native trees (phanerophytes) in the community would change the phytoclimate in future and will bring ecological welfare of the forest.

2 illus, 24 ref

001209   Bhatt K;Mittal M;Kaul R K;Bhagyawant S S; Flora S J S (Pharmacology and Toxicology Dep, Defence Research and Development Establishment, Jhansi Road, Gwalior-474 002, Email: sjsflora@hotmail.com) : Beneficial role of zinc and iron co-administration during Gallium arsenide exposure in rats. Curr Trends Biotechnol Pharm 2008, 2(1), 217-25.

Numbers of newer semiconductor materials have been introduced in the microelectronic industry having an increasing number of applications. Extensive uses of Gallium arsenide (GaAs) will inevitably lead to an increase in the exposure of workers manufacturing these products. Exposure to airborne particulate of GaAs has been considered to be potential health hazards in the semiconductor industry. Micronutrients can affect toxicity of metals by interacting with the metals at the primary site of action and can also modify the body's response to toxic metals by altering their metabolism and transport. The present study was thus planned to investigate the effects of concomitant administration of zinc and iron with GaAs on some biochemical variables suggestive of hematological alterations and oxidative stress. Administration of zinc together with GaAs was most effective in reducing GaAs induced inhibition of blood 5-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (ALAD) activity, liver and kidney reduced glutathione (GSH) level and elevation of oxidized glutathione (GSSG) and thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TEARS) levels. Some of the hematological variables although responded favorably to iron. The results suggest potential role of concomitant zinc administration during GaAs exposure in preventing appearance of signs and symptoms and also in preventing uptake of arsenic in experimental animals.

2 illus, 5 tables, 36 ref

001208   Ashnagar A;Naseri N G;Bigdeli B (NO, School of Pharmacy, Ahwaz Jundi Shapour University of Medical Sciences, Iran) : Inclusion complexation of β - cyclosextrin - methyldopa and determination of its stability constant (K) by U.V. - visible spectroscopy. Oriental J Chem 2007, 23(1), 43-50.

Methyldopa is a medication that belongs to the general class of medicines called antihypertensive and is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). Because of therapeutically importance of methyldopa, its widespread use and suitable chemical structure, its inclusion complexation with β - cyclodextrin was studied and the stability constant (K) of the complex was determined by UV-Visible spectroscopy. The stability constant (K) of the inclusion complex between p-cyclodextrin and methyldopa at λ_max = 279 nm in phosphate buffer solution with pH 7.4 was determined. The absorbance at λ_max = 279 nm by adding various concentrations of β-cyclodextrin to a given concentration of methyldopa solution was recorded and then plotted versus β-cyclodextrin concentration. Finally, by using the Beer-Lambert law the stability constant was calculated and found to beR = 83.9 ± 19.5 mol^-1 L.

4 illus, 3 tables, 9 ref

001207   Akhtar N;Khan S S (Microbiology Dep, Saifia College of Science & Education, Bhopal-462 001, Email: drkhanss_micro@yahoo.co.uk) : PCR (RELP) characterization of mycobacteroal strains isolated from the victims of the Bhopal gas disaster. Indian J appl pure Biol 2007, 22(2), 191-3.

Deals with the isolation, identification and characterization of various Mycobacterial species encountered among the MIC gas victims' pulmonary and extrapulmonary samples. It was found that among ail the traditional methods followed for diagnosis, none is totally fool proof and the best method is PCR-(RFLP). Three species were identified, which comprise of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, M.fortuitum and M. chelonae.

1 tables,10 ref

001206   Akhilesh Kumar;Mishra A;Pandey S;Tewari D D (Botany Dep, Dr. G.P.R.D. Patel Mahavidhyalay, Araul, Kanpur Nagar-209 202, Email: akhilpbh@rediffmail.com) : Ethnophytomagicotherapeutics among the Tharu tribes in Terai belt of northeastern U.P.. Vegetos 2008, 21(1), 91-7.

Devipatan division, situated in Terai belt of North-Eastern Uttar Pradesh is characterized by rich phytogenic diversity and Tribal (Tharu) population. Tharu tribe is endowed with vast knowledge of medicinal plants. They have strong believe in supernatural powers (magicotherapeutic properties) of plants in treatment and prevention of various diseases and troubles. An attempt has been made to document 32 such ethnophytomagicotherapeutics belonging to 26 families and their 41 folk-claims, because, this knowledge is undocumented and is transmitted through oral traditions from generation to generation and is depleting rapidly due to various reasons.

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