023434   Rameshkumar G;Ravichandran S;Venmathi Maran B A (Centre of Advanced Study in Marine Biology, Faculty of Marine Science, Annamalai Univ, Parangipetai-608 502, Email: grkumarcas@gmail.com ) : Occurrence of parasitic copepods in carangid fishes from parangipettai, Southeast coast of India. J parasitic Dis 2014, 38(3), 317-23.

In the present study, 68 fishes were infested out of 544 specimens examined from six different species of Carangid fishes which were collected from Parangipettai coastal waters. Eight species of parasitic copepods were found on gill filaments, body surface and nasal capsule regions. The maximum prevalence was recorded in Carangoides malabaricus (22.5%) and minimum was noticed in (2.4%) Selaroides leptolepis. The intensity of infection ranged from 1 to 1.2. Thus, considerable variation in the respiratory area was observed owing to the attachment of parasites in the infected fishes. Caligus sp. and C. epidemicus parasites were attached to body surface and only one Sphyriid sp. parasites were found in nasal capsule region. It is very difficult to estimate the actual harm to fish caused by the presence of parasites; if this is uneasy in cultured fish, it is almost impossible in feral fish populations. It should also be emphasized that the presence of a parasite does not necessarily imply manifestation of a disease. In aquaculture, some parasites are able to reproduce rapidly and heavily infect a large proportion of fish which may lead to diseases with significant economic consequences.

4 illus, 2 tables, 61 ref

023433   Rameshkumar G;Ravichandran S;Sivasubramaian K (Centre of Advanced Study in Marine Biology, Faculty of Marine Science, Annamalai Univ, Parangipettai-608 502, Email: sravicas@gmail.com ) : A new record of parasitic isopod for the Indian fauna (Mothocya karobran bruce, 1986) from Strongylura strongylura in the Pazhayar region, Southeast coast of India. J parasitic Dis 2014, 38(3), 328-30.

Cymothoid isopods are permanent ectoparasites of fish. In the present study Strongylura strongylura captured in gillnets from the inshore waters of Pazhayar from January to March-12. Among the 122 Belonidae fishes examined, 16 specimens were parasitized by isopods belonging to the species Mothocya karobran, a new record of this cymothoid isopod for the first time from India. Lowest prevalence occurred in January (10.5%) and the highest in February (15.9%). The infected fishes usually carried one cymothoid per branchial cavity. 12 parasites were found in the left branchial cavity and 4 parasites in the right. The non ovigerous female (18.5-24.7 mm) and female ovigerous (20.8-27.4 mm) in total length.

2 illus, 18 ref

023432   Preety;Hiremath U S (Extension and Communication Management Dep, College of Rural Home Science, Dharwad Univ of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad-580 005, Email: preetykalash@gmail.com) : Impact of nutrition and health education intervention on rural high school students. Karnataka J agric Sci 2015, 28(1), 92-5.

Education intervention is a planned set of procedures which aims at teaching a specific set of academic or social skills to an individual or group. Providing such an intervention in school stage can help students to develop healthy habits of nutrition and health. Hence, an effort was made to assess the knowledge gain of students on selected topics through given intervention and to analyze retention of knowledge gain through "before and after" type of experiment. Total mean score of pre-test (72.67) and post-test (83.48) of nutrition was compared and highly significant difference was found. Similarly, total mean score of health was found to be 69.31 in pre-test and 84.89 in post-test. Further, analysis showed that the mean scores in post-test decreased after 15 days but the score increased after 30 days. The overall mean score of students with respect to knowledge about nutrition was 72.67 before intervention which increased to 82.44 after 30 days of intervention. With regard to health, highly significant change in mean scores of students was found from 69.31 (in tests before) to 84.47 (after 30 days of education intervention). Thus, it is clear that educational intervention had a significant impact on knowledge regarding both nutrition and health.

4 tables, 8 ref

023431   Pitso F S;Lebese M R (NO, Kwazulu-Natal Univ, South Africa) : Traditional uses of wild edible plants in arid areas of South Africa. J hum Ecol 2014, 48(1-i), 23-31.

Using a participatory approach and purposive sampling procedure, the study examined the traditional uses of wild, edible plants among the Batswana in the arid areas of South Africa. The production and promotion of these plants, including their commercialization, contributed to sustainable community livelihood in terms of food-security, nutrition and income-generation. Community members expressed the opinion that government and other developmental agencies should give these plant resources the same priority and support as that accorded to exotic food crops. Their cultivation was less expensive, resistant to pests and were culturally accessible and acceptable. Community leaders in collaboration with government should devise strategies and mechanisms of promoting knowledge and awareness on the importance of production and utilization of these indigenous plant resources for food security, nutrition and income generation.

1 table, 19 ref

023430   Pereira N (NO, , c/o Abhijit Mazumder BSIP, Lucknow-226 007, Email: neelam.pereira@gmail.com) : Nature watch; symbiosis in coastal marine communities. Resonance 2015, 20(3), 245-53.

The article gives a brief insight into the world of associations in the marine biome. Mutual co-habitation with plants and animals is witnessed among the lower as well as the higher groups of plants. In order for one to live, the other too has to survive. Hence, the dire need for conservation of India's marine coastal biome is also highlighted here.

6 illus, 9 ref

023429   Murry R T;Khadi P B (Human Development and Family Studies Dep, College of Rural Home Science, Dharwad Univ of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad-580 005, Email: preciousme.ran@gmail.com) : Influence of behavioural problems in late childhood on the academic achievement. Karnataka J agric Sci 2015, 28(1), 88-91.

The relationship between internalizing and externalizing problem with academic achievement of children was assessed. The children in late childhood (8-12 years) studying in class 3, 4, 5 and 6 from Dharwad and Wokha regions constituted the population of the study. A sample of five each peer accepted and rejected from each class with a total of 160 children each from Dharwad and Wokha were drawn from two government and two private schools through sociometry. Teacher's Report Form (TRF) given by Achenbach and Rescorla (2001) was used to assess behavioural problems of the children and the averages of the percentages of marks in the previous two years were considered for the academic achievement. The results revealed a significant relation between the behavioural problems and academic achievement of children of Dharwad while it was not significant in case of Wokha region. Early identification and prevention of problematic behaviour is also very essential for promotion of academic success.

5 tables, 10 ref

023428   Mohan J;Sharma R (Botany Dep, Microbiology and Biotechnology, Janta Vedic College, Baraut-250 611) : Effect of treadmill exercise on tumor growth, survival proliferation and apoptotic cell count in Dalton's lymphoma. J expl Zool 2014, 17(2), 733-5.

A transient increase in tumor growth in 15 and 30 minute exercise group was observed experiment of time kinetics effect of treadmill exercise on DL progression revealed that exercise had a duration dependent inhibitory effect on tumor growth at the time points of 90 and 120 minutes day^{-1, Treadmill exercise also prolonged the survival periods of DL bearing mice. The volume of ascetic fluid decreased at 120 minutes of exercise. There was significant increase in DNA fragmentation and apoptotic cell count. Exercise also showed inhibiting effect on DL cell proliferation ability.}

5 tables, 18 ref

023427   Lyana A Z;Manimbulu N (NO, Tanzania Traditional Healers Association, Tanzania) : Culture and food habits in Tanzania and democratic republic of Congo. J hum Ecol 2014, 48(1-i), 9-21.

The paper is based on a study which used primary and secondary sources to examine the influence of culture on food habits in Tanzania and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The study revealed that culture impacted on food habits, through food production, distribution, and consumption. The other factor considered was the HIV/AIDS. As community knowledge-holders die of AIDS, they take with them their local knowledge and experiences. In times of severe labour shortages owing to AIDS, people plant fewer crop varieties to save time and money. There should also be a realization that while some cultural practices have negative effects on nutrition, especially among women and children, many provide valuable opportunities for improving community-based food-security and nutrition It is recommended that policymakers, researchers and other stakeholders should incorporate culture and food habits in community-based food security, nutrition and educational programmes.

32 ref

023426   Lyana A Z (NO, Tanzania Traditional Healers Association, Tanzania) : Perceptions of African indigenous hunting communities in Tanzania on use of game meat resources. J hum Ecol 2014, 48(1-i), 43-52.

The paper employed a participatory approach to investigate the perceptions of the Wandorobo, an indigenous hunting community in Tanzania, on the use of wild meat resources. It was found that hunting for game meat and other wildlife resources played a vital part in the livelihood of the Wandorobo. Division of labour was on gender and age. Men and boys did most of the hunting; and women, including girls, were responsible for the processing of the game meat for domestic use and for sale. Sustainable harvesting of the wildlife resources can achieved through supporting alternative sources of livelihood including agriculture; conservation policies should be made clearer to the people; and community representatives should be incorporated into the wildlife management policy planning and implementation to promote a sense of ownership of measures.

18 ref

023425   Kshirsagar M;Patil J;Patil A;Ghanwat G; Sontakke A;Ayachit R K (Biochemistry Dep, Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences Deemed Univ, Karad, Near Dhebewadi Road, Malkapur Tal- Karad-415 539) : Biochemical effects of lead exposure and toxicity on battery manufacturing workers of Western Maharahstra (India) : with respect to liver and kindney function tests. Al Ameen J med Sci 2015, 8(2), 107-14.

Biochemical parameters such as Blood Lead (PbB) level (p<60>0.001, 542%), Alanine Transaminase (ALT) (p<60>0.05, 20.47%), serum total bilirubin (p<60>0.01, 46.42%), and direct bilirubin (p<60>0.001, 90.9%), serum alkaline phosphatase (p<60>0.001, 33.38%), blood urea level (p<60>0.001, 25.85%) and serum creatinine (p<60>0.001, 22%) levels were significantly increased in battery manufacturing workers as compared to control subjects. Slightly decreased level of serum total proteins (P<60>0.01, 4.32%), albumin (P<60>0.01, 4.81%) and blood sugar (p<60>0.001, 13.49%) and no statistically significant alteration were observed in Aspartate Transaminase (AST), serum globulins, albumin/globulin ratio, indirect bilirubin, uric acid and cholesterol in the study group as compared to control group. This study revealed increased blood lead level in battery manufacturing workers of Western Maharashtra (India), indicating more absorption of lead, despite modern technical supports, considerable lead induced health hazards still exist. Alteration of Liver and kidney function tests though they are statistically significant, but are within the normal range, indicates that there was no evidence of severe disturbance of liver and kidney functions in battery manufacturing workers.

1 illus, 2 tables, 42 ref

023424   Kinjal K;Talati J G (Biochemistry Dep, BA College of Agriculture, Anand Agricultural Univ, Anand-388 110, Email: jgtalati@yahoo.co.in) : Molecular characterization of castor (Ricinus communis L.) genotypes through SSR and ISSR markers. Indian J agric Biochem 2014, 27(1), 20-4.

A set of seventeen castor genotypes were analyzed using thirteen SSR and eight ISSR markers. PCR amplification using thirteen SSR markers gave 61.92% polymorphism, 244 scorable bands with an average of 4.92 alleles and 18.76 bands per primer. ISSR markers gave 89.42% polymorphism, 730 scorable bands with an average of 13.5 alleles and 91.2 bands per primer. In this study we found ISSR as a better tool for characterization of castor genotypes.

3 illus, 8 tables, 9 ref

023423   Khan M I;Ayub Z;Siddiqui G (Centre of Excellence in Marine Biology, Karachi Univ, Karachi-75270, Email: zarrienayub@yahoo.com) : Impact of marine pollution in green mussel Perna viridis from four coastal sites in Karachi, Pakistan, north arabian sea: histopathological observations. Indian J expl Biol 2015, 53(4), 222-7.

Pathological changes are regarded as a standard technique to monitor the effects of pollutants in marine animals. Histopathological examination of the population of green mussel Perna viridis (L.) from four sites in Pakistan, namely, Manora Channel, Rehri Creek, Sandspit Backwaters and Bhanbore was conducted. The first three sites are on the Karachi coast, whereas the fourth one, Bhanbore is situated outside Karachi, and is considered to be less polluted. Two types of parasites, Rickettsia-like organisms and metacestode were found in the mussels studied. In the present study, we observed various pathological lesions, such as inflammatory responses, granulocytomas, lipofuscin pigments, vacuolation in the digestive gland and gonads, lamellar fusion and dilated hemolymphatic sinus in the gills of P. viridis. These observations indicate the extent of environmental pollution in the studied areas. Although, Bhanbore is considered to be relatively less polluted compared to other three sites, the present results have revealed that the waters of Bhanbore are also polluted as evidenced by the pathological changes observed in the mussels collected from there.

4 illus, 41 ref

023422   Kaya H O;Lyana A (NO, KwaZulu-Natal Univ, South Africa) : Knowledge and perceptions of rural communities on wild food resources consumption in Tanzania. J hum Ecol 2014, 48(1-i), 53-60.

The study used three villages in Western Usambara, Tanzania, as case studies to investigate the knowledge and perceptions of rural communities on consumption of wild-food resources. It was found that, in spite of the increasing loss of African indigenous knowledge among farming communities, there was still a strong connection between cultural identity and cuisine. Local wild-food resources contributed the taste, texture, and odour of traditional cuisine. There were also vital connections between gender and age. Women and adults knew more about wild-food resources because of their practical involvement in related practices. Women had a greater knowledge than men in wild-food gathering, preparation, and uses. Among the recommendations are: transplantation of the rare wild-food species; communities working with development agencies to develop conservation and educational programmes; documentation of the local knowledge from the community perspective.

25 ref

023421   Kaya H O (NO, KwaZulu-Natal Univ, South Africa) : Indigenous knowledge of wild-food resources among children in Tanzania. J hum Ecol 2014, 48(1-i), 1-8.

This is a case study of children's knowledge of wild-food resources in three rural communities in Tanzania. The study argues that research on African Indigenous Knowledge Systems (AIKS) on wild food resources marginalizes the theoretical and practical knowledge that children have on these resources. It was found that children, both boys and girls, had a wide knowledge of the wild food resources. This was acquired through social practice. They saw, heard, gathered, processed and ate these food resources. Girls had more theoretical to practical knowledge of wild-food plants, while boys demonstrated greater knowledge of wild animals and birds due their respective involvement in related activities. The study recommends that more research should be conducted to establish the local knowledge of children in different age groups and genders for AIKS curriculum development purposes.

13 ref

023420   Jaya Mohan;Sharma R (Botany Dep, Microbiology and Biotechnology, Janta Vedic College, Baraut-250 611) : Effect of treadmill exercise on tumor cytotoxicity, proliferation, IL-1, TNFα,and nitric oxide production in dalton's lymphoma. J expl Zool 2014, 17(2), 755-7.

Macrophage mediated tumor cytotoxicity showed significant increase in both the time points 90 and 120 minutes day 1 of treadmill exercise. Exercise showed a duration dependent inhibitory effect on DL. Cell proliferation ability as measured by thymocyte proliferation assay. It also showed duration dependent augmentation in IL-1, TNFα and nitric oxide by macrophages.

5 tables, 23 ref

023419   Jahanifard E;Navidpour S;Vazirianzadeh B; Moravvej S A;Saki J;Zarean M (Medical Entomol. & Vector Control Dep, School of Public Health, Tehran Univ of Medical Sci. Tehran, Iran, Email: babakvazir@yahoo.co.uk) : Identification of collected sand flies from Rofayyeh area, South West of Iran. J expl Zool 2014, 17(2), 669-74.

An assay was conducted to determine the sand fly fauna in Rofayyeh city, where is situated in common border line with Iraq country, in 2009. Totally, 1420 Phlebotomous and 117 Sergentomyia were collected using sticky traps from outdoor and indoor resting places. In present study P. papatasi, P. alexandri, P. caucasicus, P. mongolensis and S. sintoni were identified. P. papatasi (69.68%) and P. alexandri (12.36%) were dominant species, respectively. The highest sex ratio was found in P. caucasicus which was collected in outdoor resting place. Further epidemiological research should be done to investigate vectors and reservoirs of Zoonotic Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (ZCL) in this area for prevention of disease outbreak.

2 illus, 1 tables, 34 ref

023418   Isiugo P N;Obioha E E (Sociology Dep, Univ of Port Harcourt, Nigeria) : Understanding theoretical underpinning of wildlife resource based conflict in Oban hills, Nigeria. J hum Ecol 2015, 49(1-2), 153-61.

Evidences have shown that rapid growth in human population exerts pressure on the natural resources base of communities. Further, the scarcity of resources in rural communities often engenders contestations and conflicts among different stakeholders. This study examined the nature, typology and dimensions of resources based conflicts in support zone communities in Oban Hills. The data was collected through a purposive sample of six support zone communities and protection staff of the Cross Rivers National Park using in-depth interviews, key informant interviews and questionnaires: The research revealed that the establishment of the Cross Rivers National Park in by Acts Nos. 36 and 46 of 1991 and 46 of 1999 respectively has negatively affected the livelihood capacity of the people by reducing the proportion of land available for farming, placed restrictions on wildlife hunting within the conserved area and harvesting of protected wildlife species in the buffer zone. The result is the emergence of various forms and dimension of conflicts and contestations over resource use and control leading to the destruction of property, injuries and death. This study recommended that members of support zone communities should be engaged at all levels of wildlife management such as planning, implementing and sharing of revenue derived from eco-tourism. Government should also provide alternative sources of livelihood for the people, especially the youth.

22 ref

023417   Garg H;Thareja P (NO, , ) : Renewable immunity: a support to humanity. Omniscience 2014, 4(3), 21-9.

The "survival to the fittest" paradigm is invariably weighted w.r.t. competitiveness. This fitness is therefore constantly interacting both with the living races, and the dynamic nature, more than living -albeit in a complex way. While the former appear to tame nature, the fact is that latter demonstrates the superiority from time to time, in which the former attempt to truce with. The latter quality is called immunity especially when it is seen in a successful competition with unseen forces. One such force is environmental degradation, in the context of CO₂ concentration, soaring continuously as a consequence of man's overexploitation of nature. It even threatens to surpass the thresholds limits, to be safely supported by man. Thence, the competitiveness levels between man and nature seems to mature w.r.t the "survival to the fittest" paradigm (the balance between ecoimmunity and bioimmunity). This work attempts to study the phenomenon of expanding CO₂ concentration in the environment as reported by various authors and relate with the threshold levels prescribed for the mankind. Further attempts to forecast the breakeven limits w.r.t. bioimmunity are corroborated using the instantaneous CO₂ concentration computed by regression analysis. If by 2353 CE the nature may exert a 5000 ppm CO₂ concentration, surpassing the stipulated threshold value, and promised bioimmunity allows enough sustainability-a state of renewable immunity would have been reapproved.

023416   Chidananda C;Vasantha K Y;Sattur A P (Fermentation Technology and Bioengineering Dep, CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute, Mysore-570 020, Email: asattur@cftri.res.in) : Sclerotiorin is non-mutagenic and inhibits human PMNL 5-lipoxygenase and platelet aggregation. Indian J expl Biol 2015, 53(4), 228-31.

Sclerotiorin, isolated from the fermented broth of Penicillium frequentans, exhibited potent inhibition against human polymorphonuclear leukocytes 5-lipoxygenase and human platelet aggregation with a half maximal value 36 μM and 250 μM, respectively. Further, the Ames test has demonstrated the sclerotiorin to be non-mutagenic.

1 table, 28 ref

023415   Bouaziz-Ketata H;Zouari N;Salah H B;Rafrafi M;Zeghal N (NO, , Animal Physiology Laboratory, UR/11 ES70, Tunisia, Email: najiba.zeghal@tunet.in) : Flavonoid profile and antioxidant activities of methanolic extract of Hyparrhenia hirta (L.) Stapf.. Indian J expl Biol 2015, 53(4), 208-35.

In this study, we report isolation of flavonoids, viz., 3-O-methylquercetin, tangeritin, luteolin-7-O-glucoside, luteolin, apigenin-7-O-glucoside, apigenin-8-C-glucoside, luteolin-8-C-glucoside, luteolin-6-C-glucoside, diosmetin and catechin from the methanolic extract of Hyparrhenia hirta employing high performance liquid chromatography and liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry. The total phenolic content of H. hirta extract was 105.58 ± 0.1 mg gallic acid equivalents/g of plant extract while the total flavonoid content was 45.20 ± 0.2 mg quercetin equivalents/g of plant extract and the total condensed tannin were 72.35 ± 0.7 mg catechin equivalents/g of plant extract by reference to standard curve. The antioxidant activity was assayed through the antioxidant capacity by phosphomolybdenum assay, the reducing power assay and the radical scavenging activity using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl method. The extract showed dose dependant activity in all the three assays.

3 illus, 41 ref

023414   Abraham G;Yadav R K;Kaushik G K (Centre for Conservation and Utilization of BGA, Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi-110 012, Email: abrahambga@gmail.com) : Antimicrobial activity and identification of potential antimicrobial compounds from aquatic pteridophyte, Azolla microphylla Kaulf.. Indian J expl Biol 2015, 53(4), 232-5.

Azolla microphylla Kaulf. is an aquatic nitrogen fixing pteridophyte commonly found in aquatic habitats including paddy fields. Methanolic extract of the fronds of A. microphylla was subjected to partial purification by solvent partitioning with diethyl ether and ethyl acetate followed by hydrolysis, and further partitioning with ethyl acetate. The two fractions, thus obtained were tested for antibacterial activity. It was observed that the ethyl acetate fraction inhibited the growth of the pathogenic bacterium Xanthomonas oryzae. The GC-MS analysis of the ethyl acetate fraction showed several prominent peaks with retention time ranging from 8.83 to 45.54 min. A comparison of these peaks with the GC-MS libraries revealed that it could be eicosenes and heptadecanes with potential of antimicrobial activity.

2 illus, 1 table, 16 ref

022589   Yadav A;Yadav K (Microbiology Dep, College of Basic Science & Humanities, S.D. Agricultural Univ, S.K. Nagar, Gujarat-385 506, Email: anuragyadav123@gmail.com) : In situ screening of plant growth promoting Bacillus subtilis and Pseudomonas fluorescens from cumin (cuminum cyminum L.) rhizosphere. J Envir Biosci 2014, 28(1), 13-19.

Cumin rhizosphere was screened for isolating some plant growth promoting rhizobacteria. Bacillus subtilis and Pseudomonas fluorescens were specifically targeted in the screening. The rhizosphere isolates were studied morphologically and biochemically and identified as biovars of P. fluorescens and B. subtilis. The biovars were tested in situ for plant growth promoting traits by employing tests like indole acetic acid (IAA) production, NH₃ production, HCN production, phosphatase activity and siderophore production. Quantitative estimation of IAA production and phosphate solubilization was also performed. The in vitro results of the tests proposed the use of three multi-trait biovars of P. fluorescens (PCU1, PCU4, and PCU17) and one of B. subtilis (BCU5) in cumin rhizosphere to test their plant growth promoting activity.

6 illus, 4 tables, 47 ref

022588   Wyk M M V (Curriculum and Instructional Studies Dep, College of Education, South Africa Univ, South Africa, Email: vwykmm@unisa.ac.za) : Nama stap as indigenous identity and cultural knowledge. J hum Ecol 2014, 48(1-ii), 181-8.

The Afrocentric method is derived from the Afrocentric paradigm which deals with the question of African identity from the perspective of African people as centred, located, oriented, and grounded. The Afrocentric philosophy is based on the principles of inclusivity, cultural specificity, critical awareness, committedness and political awareness. The Nama Stap is the Namas' entertainment form used as a social, cultural and educational tool by the Nama-Khoisan people. The purpose of this paper is to [re]claim the Nama Stap as a dance of identity, culture and indigenous knowledge by showing ways in which an Afrocentric-ubuntu-based research approach can be used to research indigenous culture. Data were collected through oral history, field notes and stories. A case is argued for using the Nama Stap as Khoisan cultural heritage tool to promote nation building.

26 ref

022587   Woldetsadik D A;Lumadi M W (NO, Addis Ababa Ministry of Agriculture, South Africa, Email: dalemu12@yahoo.com) : Gender responsiveness of HIV/AIDS awareness program in Addis ababa. J hum Ecol 2014, 48(3), 417-22.

A qualitative research method was employed to ascertain gender responsiveness of HIV/AIDS awareness education program by three Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)in Addis Ababa, Arada sub-city administration. The NGOs include the Save Your Generation Ethiopia (SYGE), Welfare for the Street Mothers and Children Organization (WeSMCO) and Integrated Service for AIDS Prevention and Support Organization (ISAPSO). Data were gathered from key informants and other experts in each NGO. The researchers transcribed, coded and interpreted the interview transcript to analyze the data. The research questions set formed the basis for describing and interpreting the views, experiences and knowledge of the key informants on each question. Eventually, it was concluded that the HIV/AIDS awareness education program that the selected NGOs conducted under the above captioned sub-city administration was not gender responsive due to several reasons that include; time constraints as participants did not have enough time for the awareness education program that each of the selected NGO implemented; the selection of trainers was not based on fair gender selection; time suitability for implementing awareness education programs, selecting learning materials and using teaching methods did not consider the learning needs of both sexes; the selected NGOs were applying gender analysis method prior to the implementation of the awareness education program. Recommendations were also formulated.

15 ref

022586   Vijayan M (Molecular Biophysics - Unit, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru-560 012, Email: mv@mbu.iisc.ernet.in) : Microbial pathogens-an Indian platform for structure-based inhibitor design. Curr Sci 2015, 108(5), 775-7.

7 ref

022585   Verma K (Univ Sports Board, Banaras Hindu Univ, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh-221 005) : Competitive anxiety among different achievement groups of male judokas: a proportional study. Scient J Sports Exercise 2015, 11(2), 16-19.

The purpose of the study was to compare the Competitive Anxiety among Different Achievement Groups of Male Judokas of Different Colleges of Punjab University, Chandigarh. U.T. Through purposive sample technique from 102 judokas, n=51 male judokas (age 18-25 years) of different colleges of Punjab University, participating in Punjab University Judo Intercollegiate competition were selected as subject of the study. They were further divided into three groups High, Average and Low Achievement groups based on their previous year 2010-11 position in the Punjab University Intercollegiate Competition. Three groups are High achievement group T_HI = first, second and third position holder (n=17), Average achievement group T_M2 = fourth, fifth and sixth position holders(n = 17), Low achievement group T_L3 = seventh, eighth and ninth position holders (n=17). The Sports, Competition Anxiety Test (SCAT) developed by Rainer Marten was administered for the collection of data. The One Way ANOVA (Analysis of Variance) was applied to find out the (significance difference among the three achievement malejudokas groups. To test the hypothesis, the level of significance was set at 0.05. The result reveled that the three High, Average and Low Achievement groups of male judokas of different colleges of Punjab University were found to have same level of competitive anxiety. The result found that there were no significance difference was found between the three groups of i.e. High achievement group T_HI, Average achievement group TM2, and Low achievement group T_L3 of male judokas of different colleges of Punjab University Chandigarh, U. T. The three High, Average and Low Achievement groups of male judokas of different colleges of Punjab University were found to have same level of competitive anxiety.

2 illus, 1 table, 5 ref

022584   van Breda M J (Psychology of Education Dep, College of Education, South Africa Univ, South Africa, Email: vbredmj@unisa.ac.za) : Truants' perceptions of parental involvement in their education: how can parents assist?. J hum Ecol 2014, 48(1-ii), 145-51.

Truancy or "skipping school" is not problematic for schools only, but also for families and communities. Children are often not in school where their parents assume them to be and they are not receiving the education which is paid for in the form of school fees and state taxes. This paper explores truants' views of their parents' attitudes towards their education and how this impact on their school attendance and attainment. A thorough exploration of extant research and literature revealed that parental disengagement is becoming one of the major causes of all types of challenging behavioural problems among adolescents, including truant behaviour. In this empirical investigation, a questionnaire was completed by a sample of 300 learners which measured among other, adolescent's perceptions of their parents' interest and involvement in their education. The research findings indicate that the participants, particularly those who featured as classical truants, are of the opinion that their parents/caregivers generally seem to display an unfavourable attitude towards their education. It is recommended that local education and social welfare services provide support for greater parental involvement if they are serious about improving learners' school attendance and performance.

20 ref

022583   Sushma;Pradeep Kumar;Batra P (Psychology Dep, Maharishi Dyanand Univ, State Institute of Mental Health, Rohtak, Haryana, Email: sushmaratheecp@gmail.com) : Personality and self esteem among youth of Rohtak, Haryana. Delhi Psychiat J 2015, 18(1), 133-7.

Study was conducted on 80 youth from Maharishi Dyanand University Rohtak, Haryana. It was a cross-sectional study in which included both genders. McCrare & Costa's Big five personality factor scale was used to assess personality types and Virk and Chauhan's self-esteem scale was used to assess self-esteem of the youth. The data obtained for the variables under study have been subjected to different statistical analysis such as mean, standard deviation (SD),t-test, & Pearson correlation to understand the impact and relationship between the variables. Pearson correlation of self-esteem on the personality traits sub-scales revealed that the extroversion versus introversion & closeness to experience type were significant positive predictors and neuroticism versus emotion stability was significant negative predictor of the self-esteem.

3 tables, 20 ref

022582   Suresh Kutty K;Vijesh V (NO, , School of Physical Education & Sports Sciences, Kannur Univ) : Selected psychological charateristics of adventure sports instructors. Scient J Sports Exercise 2015, 11(2), 28-30.

The present investigation aimed to find out the psychological characteristics of adventure sports instructors of 25 state level instructors of Kerala, India. The age group of selected subjects was between 25 to 35 years male subjects. The psychological variable selected for the study was anxiety, self-confidence and aggression. Anxiety was assessed with the help of sports competitive anxiety test (SCAT) by Marten, Vearley and Burton (1990), Self-confidence was assessed with self-confidence inventory (how do you respond) by Phillip Davids and Aggression was assessed with the help of Aggression test by Tiwari and Chauhan. F ratio was adopted as statistical technique to analyze the difference in psychological characteristics among sports instructors. The mean value obtained for self-confidence (26.9200) was higher than that of anxiety (18.7200) and aggression (21.5200) among adventure sports instructors. The F ratio (51.509) which was greater than the table value of 2.32 at 0. 05 level, thus proving a significant difference among self-confidence, aggression and anxiety. The finding of the study reveals that the mean value of self confidence is high than that of anxiety and aggression among adventure sports instructors.

1 illus, 2 tables, 5 ref

022581   Suresh Kutty K (School of Physical Education & Sports Sciences, Kannur Univ, Kerala) : Effect of weight training and plyometric training on the skills of soccer players. Scient J Sports Exercise 2015, 11(2), 9-11.

To find out the comparative effect of weight training and plyometric training on the skills of soccer players, twenty (N=20) men subjects were selected from Dr. Sivanthi Aditanar College of Physical Education, Tiruchendur. They were equally divided randomly into two groups. Group A underwent weight training programme, while Group B underwent plyometric training programme for 3 alternate days per week for a total period of six weeks. The data collected on the shooting and throw -in skills from the subjects before and after the training as pre test and post test scores were statistically treated by applying dependent 't' test. The results revealed that both the training methods were effective in improving the performance in the selected skills of soccer players.

1 table, 11 ref

022580   Subramanyam V;Veerabhadrudu B (Anthropology Dep, Andhra Univ, Visakhapatnam-530 003, Email: vsubramanyam23@rediffmail.com) : Forest ecology and health care: a study in visakha agency of Andhra Pradesh, India. South Asian Anthrop 2014, 14(1), 35-45.

Over exploitation of forest resources by the various external agencies, mining operations and development projects of government and non-government in the tribal areas are resulting to deforestation which are adversely affecting the life of the aboriginals. The consequences of forest ecosystem degradation to tribal health are numerous. Primarily, which create natural imbalance of forest bio-diversity resulting to food problem and loosening permanent energy base. Prolonged starvation for food leads to high incidence of malnutrition, morbidity and mortality among them. Due to deforestation, some of the valuable medicinal plants become extinction and tribals also loose their prime medicinal source. The forest policies of government are also adversely affecting the livelihoods of tribals. In this research paper an attempt is made to explain tribals' interaction with forests and influence of ecological and cultural factors on their health. It also deals with their indigenous medicinal practices and effects of government forest policies on their lifestyles. Further it emphasizes the relevance of action anthropology in solving the health problems of tribals. The paper discusses the inter connectedness in between the forest ecology, health and medicine of tribes in anthropological holistic perspective with an empirical evidence of a case study in Visakha agency area of Andhra Pradesh.

5 tables, 15 ref

022579   Sinha K;Swamy C V B;Muralikrishna B H;Idris M M;Nagaraj R;Parnaik V K (NO, CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Uppal Road, Hyderabad, Email: veenap@ccmb.res.in) : Identification of markers for cellular stress and senescence in laminopathic cells by proteomic analysis. Proc Indian Natn Sci Acad 2014, 80(5), 1105-17.

Lamins are components of the structural network in the nucleus and play a key role in nuclear organization and function. Mutations in the human lamin A gene cause a spectrum of genetic diseases that include muscular dystrophies, cardiomyopathy, lipodystrophy and premature ageing syndromes. Laminopathic cells display several abnormalities in nuclear morphology and function. We have carried out a comprehensive analysis of alterations in the protein profiles of HEK293T cells expressing a mutation in lamin A (Q294P) that causes Emery-Dreifuss muscular dystrophy, in comparison with cells expressing wild-type lamin A. Initially a total of 27 differentially expressed proteins were identified by quantitative two-dimensional gel electrophoresis followed by mass spectral analysis. Importantly, a 5-fold decrease in lamin Bl levels in mutant cells was observed by quantitative two-dimensional gel electrophoresis, which was supported by immunofluorescence analysis. Changes in levels of specific heat shock proteins, hnRNPs, DNA damage response proteins, metabolic enzymes and cytoskeletal proteins were also observed. Further detailed analysis of cell lysates by one-dimensional gel electrophoresis followed by high throughput mass spectrometry revealed 650 unique proteins from wild-type cells and 1494 unique proteins from mutant cells (with two or more than two peptide hits). Alterations in a number of proteins that are involved in chromatin structure, chromosome condensation, nucleosome assembly, epigenetic modifications, centromere organization, telomere length and DNA repair were observed. These data suggest that laminopathic cells exhibit characteristics of cellular stress and senescence, and provide new insights into the cellular basis of pathologies caused by laminopathic mutations.

3 illus, 2 tables, 45 ref

022578   Sharma D (NO, Lakshmibai National Institute of Physical Education, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh) : Comparative study of selected motor and respiratory variables among defenders and attackers in football. Scient J Sports Exercise 2015, 11(2), 31-5.

The purpose of the present study was to see the comparative difference between the selected motor and respiratory variables among attackers and defenders of female football players of LNIPE. For the purpose of the study 10 attackers and 10 defenders age ranged from 18-25 years, of football match practice were selected as subjects. Keeping the feasibility criterion in mind, selected Motor variables i. e. Static Balance, Range of motion, Reaction Time, Coordination and Proprioception and selected Respiratory variables i.e. Vital capacity and Peak flow rate were selected for the present study. It was assessed with the help Sensobalance, Dry Spirometer and Peak expiratory flow meter. To compare the motor and respiratory variables among attackers and defenders as per their position t- test was used with the help of data analysis software SPSS 20 and the level of confidence was set at 0.05. The findings of the study showed that the Footballers playing in the different positions in football have not shown significant difference in all the selected respiratory variables. There were insignificant differences in following selected motor variables i.e. Range of Motion, Static Balance, Proprioception & Coordination except Reaction Time which showed significant difference.

7 tables, 7 ref

022577   Saxena L P (Computer Science Dep, Mumbai Univ, Vidyanagari, Santacruz (E) Mumbai-400 098, Email: lasaxmail@aol.com ) : Natural and controlled symmetry breaking analyses in biological systems. Curr Sci 2015, 108(5), 819-24.

Symmetry breaking is present in every biological system, at microscopic and macroscopic levels, present in nature. It can be divided into two types, natural symmetry breaking and controlled symmetry breaking, described by organismal adaptation in natural environment and forced perturbations in human-controlled situations respectively. Natural symmetry breaking adheres biological systems complexities, organismal adaptations, and mechanisms at cellular levels. Controlled symmetry breaking of cells focus on cell migration, morphogenesis, self-organization, and soluble and insoluble cues.

4 illus, 20 ref

022576   Salunkhe R C;Dhotre D P;Salunke B K;Patil V S;Mahale V;Andrew R J;Patole M S;Narkhede K P;Shouche Y S (National Centre for Cell Science, National Centre for Cell Science, Univ of Pune Campus, Ganeshkhind, Pune-411 007) : Distribution and molecular characterization of Wolbachia endosymbionts in odonata (insecta) from Central India by multigene approach. Curr Sci 2015, 108(5), 971-8.

Wolbachia are maternally inherited bacterial endo-symbionts of arthropods distributed among a wide range of hosts. It is now well known that they induce reproductive manipulations in their arthropod hosts by various phenotypic effects. The objective of the present study was to investigate Wolbachia infection among the insect order Odonata comprising 16 species from 5 families. Fifteen odonate species representing five families were found to harbour Wolbachia with the overall infection rate of 70%, out of which fourteen species are reported for the first time. According to multilocus sequence typing (MLST) data and phylo-genetic analysis, all odonate Wolbachia species belong to supergroup F, except Trithemis pallindinervis, which belongs to supergroup B. MLST data reveal 20 new, highly similar STs (99.32 ± 0.34). We found a high rate of Wolbachia infection in Odonata of India, which indicates importance of this association. The characterization of these Wolbachia strains promises to lead to a deeper insight into this interaction, which is essential for further studies based on their phenotypic effects. The study suggests that all the characterized Wolbachia STs are totally new and arise as a result of point mutation.

1 illus, 2 tables, 36 ref

022575   Romm N R A (Adult Basic Education and Youth Development Dep, South Africa Univ, P.O. Box 392 Tshwane, 0003, South Africa, Email: norma.romm@gmail.com) : Indigenous ways of knowing and possibilities for re-envisaging globalization: implications for human ecology. J hum Ecol 2014, 48(1-ii), 123-33.

Indigenous cultural orientations across the globe offer some groundwork for us to recognize the essential connectivity of all planetary life, including human and non-human dynamisms. Furthermore, Indigenous Wisdom as it manifests across the world (for example, in the cultural symbols of Indigenous people in Africa, of Native/Indian Americans in America, and of Aboriginals in Australia) can be seen as offering an approach to knowing and being that is non-impositional. The paper spotlights some of the ways in which people in various Indigenous communities have tried to oppose forces of social and natural exploitation when living out their approaches to being-in-the-world. A case is made for arguing that in human ecological studies, our lens when addressing Indigenous approaches needs not be directed so much at the content of the "knowledge" that different people may put forward, but can be turned more to the manner of tying knowing to valued ways of living.

30 ref

022574   Pandey;Pankaj;Goswami J (Amity School of Physical Education & Sports Sciences, Amity Univ, Uttar Pradesh) : Effect of a specific plyometric trainingprogramme on bowling speed of medium fast bowlers. Scient J Sports Exercise 2015, 11(2), 12-15.

Plyometric is not a traditional training, when we think about plyometrics the first impression comes to our mind is that it involves all jumping types of exercises and works only for the lower extremities. But the core concept of plyometricsis to increase power and explosiveness of all muscle groups. Plyometrics consists of a rapid stretching of a muscle (eccentric action) immediately followed by a concentric or shortening action of the same muscle and connective tissue (Baechle and Earle, 2000). The prevalent objectives of the study were to find out the effect of selected plyometric training programme on bowling speed of medium fast bowlers in cricket. 40 bowlers from Delhi/NCR were selected as the subjects for this study whose age were ranging between 18-24 yrs. Equaled group design was adopted for distributing the subjects into two equal groups on the basis of the scores obtained from vertical jump test. The control and the experimental assignment were done randomly to both the group. A systematic plyometric training programme for 10 weeks (3Days per week) was given to the experimental group. The control received no treatment. Pre-test and post-test data were collected on howling speed for both the groups. The data were further analysed by using paired t-test to find out the training effects if any on the subjects. The result of the study showed that there was significant improvement on bowling speed of the experimental group. It was concluded that the specific training programme on plyometrics was useful in improving the bowling speed of the medium fast bowlers.

1 illus, 1 table, 7 ref

022573   Nirmaljit Kaur;Kumar P;Malhotra S;Madan P; Bhatia M S (Microbiology Dep, PGIMER and Associated Dr RML Hospital, New Delhi, Email: njkbhatia@yahoo.co.in) : Infections, depression and suicidal behaviour. Delhi Psychiat J 2015, 18(1), 142-50.

28 ref

022572   Ncube N;Tanga P T;Bhumira B (NO, Fort Hare Univ, PB X1314, Alice 5700, South Africa, Email: ntombinto@gmail.com) : Impact of de-agrarianisation on the socio-economic well-being of rural inhabitants in South Africa. J hum Ecol 2014, 48(3), 399-406.

The aim of the present research paper was to examine the impact of de-agrarianisation on the socio-economic well-being of the rural population in South Africa. The data for the present research was procured from a larger study that was conducted in Msobomvu Community, a rural area in the Eastern Cape. Further, the data was collected using an interview guide and structured questionnaires. The findings show that inhabitants in this rural area face numerous socio-economic challenges which all manifest from the sharp decrease in agricultural activities. These findings indicate that the process of de-agrarianizationis a recurring challenge which has crippled the attempts to enforce a stable food security at household level. The decrease of people who involve themselves in agricultural activities has led to quite a number of effects which include dependency on government support, increased crime rate, health problems, poverty and threats to food security at household level. It is, therefore, recommended that policies that are in line with boosting agriculture should be enforced and at the same time the government should increase funding for agricultural projects so as to motivate people into agriculture.

2 table, 26 ref

022571   Mukherjee D;Bhattacharya T;Misra K K (NO, Kendriya Vidyalaya, RBNM Salboni, Paschim Medinipur, West Bengal-721 132, Email: debu04mukherjee@yahoo.co.in) : Insects, Araneae and their host-plant relationship in and around Falta Industrial Zone, West Bengal. J envir Sociobiol 2014, 11(2), 137-61.

The objective of this work is to examine the effect of industrialization on the insects and arachmids of several members belonging to six arthropod orders, viz., Hemiptera, Orthoptera, Hymenoptera, Lepidoptera, Coleoptera and Araneae and their host plant relationship in the Falta export processing zone (FEPZ) and in non-industrial area. Fifteen study sites were selected for the research work, of which ten are within the industrial area covering 10 km of aerial distance of Falta industrial zone and fi ve sites of non-industrial area are 20 km to 32 km away of the industrial complex. The present study records the occurrence of 139 species of arthropods covering 5 insect orders (viz., Hemiptera, Lepidoptera, Coleoptera, Hymenoptera and Orthoptera) and one arachnid order Araneae, collected from 15 study sites of Falta Industrial Zone and adjoining non-industrial areas. These include 121 genera, 45 families and 5 sub-families of the above mentioned orders. This arthropod community were collected from 74 species of plants belonging to 30 families. These plants are commonly distributed in all 15 study sites. Four host plant families (Asclepiadaceae, Poaceae, Euphobiaceae and Solanaceae) harbour species of fi ve arthropod orders. Two host plant families, viz., Caparidaceae and Cypreraceae harbour only orthopteran insects. Two plant families (Polygonaceae and Boraginaceae) harbour hymenopteran insects. Two host plant families Chenopodiaceae and Caesalpiniaceae harbour only hemipteran insects. Eight host-plant families (Anonaceae, Saporaceae, Acanthaceae, Nyctaginaceae, Verbenaceae, Dioscoriaceae, Plamnaceae, and Flacourtiaceae) harbour only coleopteran insects. Two families Amaranthaceae and Rubiaceae harbour both coleopteran insects and arachnids whereas plants of Rhamnaceae family harbour only arachnids. The fi ndings are tabulated in the form of distribution pattern, host-family association and binary (presence/absence) data. The present work not only indicates a new aspect of biodiversity but also measures partially the quality of environment with regard to the bioindicator study recording the seasonal/ monthly abundance pattern of these insects.

6 illus, 9 tables, 46 ref

022570   Lokhande S;Musaddiq M (NO, Shri D.M. Burungale College of Arts and Science, Shegaon) : Microflora degrading the municipal wastes by fungi. Indian J Life Sci 2014, 4(1), 13-6.

Cellulases are synthesized in nature by a number of fungi and bacteria. The cellulolytic microbes occupy a broad range of habitats. These microbes play a major role in converting the complex polysaccharides into simple sugars, which they assimilate. The cellulolytic microorganisms are ubiquitous in nature and they include protozoa, fungi and bacteria. Microbial cellulases find applications in various industries and constitute a major group of industrial enzymes. This study was aimed to screen the cellulolytic ability of fungi from native environmental source. Out of 114 fungal cultures isolated from saline belt of Akola and Buldhana District 80(70%) were found to posses cellulose degrading ability. Cellulolytic fungi belonged to Aspergillus spp., Trichoderma spp., Fusarium spp., Penicillium spp., Rhizopus spp., and Cladosporium spp. Trichoderma viride showed high cellulase activity followed by Cladosporium spp. A. niger, Penicillium spp. and Fusarium spp. showed moderate while Rhizopus oryzae, Rhizopus spp., showed low cellulase activity.

2 tables, 12 ref

022569   Lilemba J M;Matemba Y (NO, Namibia Univ, Windhoek, Namibia, Email: jlilemba@unam.na) : Reclaiming indigenous knowledge of Mafwe in a post-colonial Namibian curriculum. J hum Ecol 2014, 48(1-ii), 115-22.

Using the Mafwe ethnic/cultural group as a test case, the situation in post-colonial Namibia can be interpreted to mean that as long as indigenous knowledge remains outside the official school curriculum, ideologically, 'power' continues to elude the people in the country which for over a century had been under the control of various Western colonial powers. It is suggested that there is an urgent need for Namibia to adopt a diverse culturally sensitive form of education which firmly embeds indigenous knowledge in the way the curriculum is conceptualised, designed and delivered. The study used methodologies such as conceptual analysis, oral traditions and phenomenological analysis. The overall findings in the study suggest the need for a comprehensive theory regarding how indigenous knowledge can become the bedrock and not merely an ancillary to a modern education in Namibia. The emphasis here is that learning about indigenous knowledge enables children and the communities they represent to feel authentic, respected and connected.

39 ref

022568   Kithan L N (Anthropology Dep, NEHU, Shillong, Meghalaya, Email: longshibeni.k@gmail.com) : Socio-economic importance of bamboo among the Nagas of Nagaland. J hum Ecol 2014, 48(3), 393-7.

Bamboo is grown extensively in Nagaland and the socio-economic life of the Nagas revolves around the varied use of bamboo and its products. Beginning with the sharp bamboo blades prepared to remove the umbilical cord of a new born and even accompanying dead person with finely woven bamboo mats wrapped all over the body. It is also put to a number of uses. There is nothing about bamboo that can be discarded or treated as waste. Bamboo is found extensively all over Nagaland. It occurs as a predominant plant in portions of the districts of Dimapur, Peren, Mon and Mokokchung districts, while it is readily found mixed with other forest species in all other districts of the state. Bamboo being a fastest growing and highest yielding plant, its maintenance does not require much labour and is a source of livelihood to many people in the region. In the present time, it is being used as industrial raw material for pulp and paper, construction and engineering materials, health food, handicrafts etc. Taking into account the increasing demand of bamboo and bamboo products worldwide, it has enormous economic potential to generate employment opportunities for the weaker sections of the society. Thus, the present study looks into the utilitarian nature of bamboo as reflected from the social life of the Nagas and as a source of economy.

13 ref

022567   Karim A H M Z;Mondal D (Sociology and Anthropology Dep, International Islamic Univ of Malaysia, Gombak, Kuala Lumpur, Malayasia-53100, Email: ahmzkarim@yahoo.com) : Kala-azar fever in Bangladesh: an awareness study of six unions of Trishal Upazila in Mymenshing District, Bangladesh. South Asian Anthrop 2014, 14(1), 11-14.

Kala-azar or Leishmaniasis is an acute vector-borne infectious disease caused by parasites of the genus Leishmania, also simultaneously called Leishmania donovani, which is transmitted to human body through bite of a female phlebotomine sandfly. Recently it has been found very much prevalent in an acute manner in 34 districts of Bangladesh, causing a serious threat to the community. Kala-azar has become endemic in nine districts of the country which includes Rajshahi and Mymenshing. It is reported that people's awareness in many of these districts is extremely low and discouraging; and in this context, the community leaders' involvement is also quite unsatisfactory. This paper for that reason, is an attempt to provide information on community leaders' perception about kala-azar in a district in Bangladesh.

1 table, 5 ref

022566   John S S (Arunachal Institute of Tribal Studies, Rajiv Gandhi Univ, Rono Hills, Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh-791 111, Email: simonjohn19@gmail.com) : Traditional healing rituals in Tamil Nadu, South India. South Asian Anthrop 2014, 14(1), 1-9.

Study of traditional healing practices is an important area in the discipline of folklore and anthropology. In traditional societies most of the bodily illnesses are related to supernatural power and several kinds of rituals, vows, and offerings are performed in order to heal the illness. This paper is an attempt to document some significant folk healing practices that are existent in Tamil Nadu. It tries to understand how the human body is culturally professed, purified, and healed through rituals in a particular cultural context.

10 illus, 6 ref

022565   Jain D N;Musaddiq M (Microbiology P.G. Dep, Shri Shivaji College of Arts, Commerce and Science, Akola, Maharashtra) : Pathogenic bacteria associated with cases of corneal ulcers. Indian J Life Sci 2014, 4(1), 21-3.

Number of blind people in the world is 45 million. Out of which 5.4 million blind people are in our country. Corneal ulcer is a major cause of blindness throughout the world. About 10% cases of blindness are due to corneal ulcer. "Corneal Ulcer means loss of corneal substances as a result of infection and formation of raw, excavated area." Corneal Ulcers can be caused by exogenous infections i.e. by viruses, bacteria, fungi or parasites and sometimes it is allergic in nature or it can be due to endogenous infections. Almost any organism can invade the corneal stroma if the normal corneal defense mechanisms, i.e., lids, tear film and corneal epithelium are compromised. Bacterial keratitis is serious ocular infectious disease that can lead to significant vision loss. Isolation and identification of pathogenic bacteria associated with cases of corneal ulcers during period of one year.

2 tables, 5 ref

022564   Hsseinigouzdagani M;Geyikoglu F;Colak S; Turkez H;Bakir T O;Bakir M (Biology Dep, Faculty of Science, Atatruk Univ, Erzurum, Turkey, Email: geyikogluff@yahoo.com) : Efficacy of carvacrol on renal damage in rats with acute pancreatitis. J essential Oil Bearing Pl 2014, 17(5), 847-58.

The carvacrol is thought to promote optimal health via its antioxidant and free radical scavenging effects. The aim of our present study was to investigate the efficacy of carvacrol on the development of kidney injury in acute pancreatitis model (AP) induced by cerulein and to explore the underlying mechanism. The rats were randomised into groups to receive (I) no therapy; (II.) 50 μg/kg cerulein at 1-h intervals by four intraperitonally injection (i.p.); (III) 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg carvacrol by one i.p.; and (IV) cerulein+carvacrol after 2 h of cerulein injection. 12 h later, serum was provided to assess the blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine (CRE) and uric acid (UA) values. Also, renal tissues were obtained for histological and biochemical measurements. Kidney oxidative stress markers were evaluated by changes in the amount of lipid peroxides measured as malondialdehyde (MDA) and changes in tissue antioxidant enzyme levels, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX). Histopathological examination was performed using scoring systems. We found that the increasing doses of carvacrol decreased pancreatitis-induced MDA levels. Moreover, the renal SOD, CAT and GSH-Px activities in the AP+carvacrol group were higher than that of the rats in the AP group. In the treatment groups, the BUN, CRE and UA were reduced. Besides, necrosis, coagulation and inflammation in the kidney were alleviated (p <60> 0.05). Finally, the magnitude of the protective effect on kidney is certain, and 200 mg/kg carvacrol is an effective theraphy for oxidative stress caused by AP.

3 illus, 4 tables, 58 ref

022563   Hendricks N G P;Magano M D (Inclusive Education Dep, South Africa Univ, Pretoria, South Africa, Email: maganmd@unisa.ac.za) : Emotional needs of urban HIV/AIDS affected learners in the intermediate and senior phases. J hum Ecol 2014, 48(3), 451-9.

The study focused on learners in an urban area in the outskirts of Johannesburg city who lost either a parent or both parents due to HIV/AIDS. The aim of the study was to explore the emotional needs of these learners who were affected by HIV/AIDS. The theoretical framework for the study was Maslow's theory of needs. Five learner- participants were purposely selected from a centre where the caregivers were helping them with homework after school five days a week. Their ages ranged from ten to thirteen. For data collection individual interviews were used and participants used their home language in responding to questions. Findings revealed that all learners yearned for love, warmth, support and felt lonely without biological parents. They also felt that they don't have security ever since their parents died. The paper recommends that the community and the Life Orientation teachers should give emotional support so that their emotional wellness is enhanced.

45 ref

022562   Ghosh P;Mondal N;Sen J (Anthropology Dep, North Bengal Univ, P.O.: N.B.U., Raja Rammohunpur, Dist: Darjeeling-734 013, Email: jaydipsen@rediffmail.com) : Evidence of a double burden of malnutrition among Rajbanshi adolescent boys. South Asian Anthrop 2014, 14(1), 81-8.

Malnutrition is one of the major public health problems affecting children and adolescents of the developing countries such as India and causes high mortality and long-lasting physiologic effects. Nowadays, individuals are being affected by a double burden of malnutrition. This dual burden refers to the prevalence of both undernutrition and overnutrition occurring simultaneously within a population. The present cross-sectional study has been carried out among 964 school-going adolescent boys aged 10 years -18 years belonging to the indigenous Rajbanshi population and residing in the Siliguri sub-division of Darjeeling district, West Bengal, India. Height and weight were recorded and the body mass index (BMI) calculated. The prevalence of malnutrition was assessed utilizing stunting (<60>3rd percentile of the NCHS), thinness (BMI-for-age), while the prevalence of overweight-obesity was determined using the age-sex specific cut-offs of Cole et al. (2007). Mean values of weight, height and BMI gradually increased with age. The mean BMI ranged from 15.34 kg/m^{2 to 20.21 kg/m2 among the boys. The overall prevalence of stunting and thinness was observed to be 47.61% and 40.98% respectively. The overall prevalence of severe, moderate and mild thinness was observed to be 17.44%, 6.43% and 16.80% respectively. The prevalence of overweight (5.81%) and obesity (0.62%) were low. The existence of stunting and thinness indicated chronic nutritional deprivation and this was more pronounced than the burden of overnutrition among the adolescent boys. Appropriate intervention strategies are required to ameliorate their nutritional deficiency so as to achieve optimum growth.}

2 illus, 2 tables, 43 ref

022561   Dewah C;Van Wyk M M (NO, National Univ of Science and Technology, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, Email: charitydewah@yahoo.co.uk) : Place of indigenous cultural games by educators in the teaching and learning of mathematics. J hum Ecol 2014, 48(1-ii), 189-97.

Many human activities have some mathematical ideas embedded in them. The use of indigenous games is one way of giving context that can help students enjoy and understand mathematics in order to apply it in their everyday lives. The paper gives an empirical assessment of the game of pada that is played by many indigenous children in Zimbabwe. The purpose of the study was to explore mathematical ideas that are embedded in the game of pada. Five children from Gweru urban participated in the study. Focus group interviews and observations were used to gather data and inductive analysis was then used to analyze the data. The study revealed that ideas of counting, inverse variation, geometrical constructions, projectiles, statistics, permutations, combinations and angles of elevation and depression are embedded in the game of pada. The study recommends the training of teachers to utilize indigenous knowledge systems and local cultural games when teaching mathematics in order to fight methophobia among African students.

23 ref