020587   Jain I;Vikash Kumar;Satyanarayana T (Microbiology Dep, Delhi Univ, South Campus, Benito Juarez Road, New Delhi-110 021, Email: tsnarayana@gmail.com) : Xylooligosaccharides: an economical prebiotic from agroresidues and their health benefits. Indian J expl Biol 2015, 53(3), 131-42.

Oligosaccharides and dietary fibres are non-digestible food ingredients that preferentially stimulate the growth of prebiotic Bifidobacterium and other lactic acid bacteria in the gastro-intestinal tract. Xylooligosaccharides (XOS) provide a plethora of health benefits and can be incorporated into several functional foods. In the recent times, there has been an over emphasis on the microbial conversion of agroresidues into various value added products. Xylan, the major hemicellulosic component of lignocellulosic materials (LCMs), represents an important structural component of plant biomass in agricultural residues and could be a potent bioresource for XOS. On an industrial scale, XOS can be produced by chemical, enzymatic or chemo-enzymatic hydrolysis of LCMs. Chemical methods generate XOS with a broad degree of polymerization (DP), while enzymatic processes will be beneficial for the manufacture of food grade and pharmaceutically important XOS. Xylooligomers exert several health benefits, and therefore, have been considered to provide relief from several ailments. This review provides a brief on production, purification and structural characterization of XOS and their health benefits.

2 illus, 1 table, 114 ref

020586   Dhevahi B;Gurusamy R (Science and Humanities Dep, Kongunadu College of Engineering and Technology, Thottiam-621 215, Email: dhevahi@gmail.com) : Factors influencing production of lipase under metal supplementation by bacterial strain, Bacillus subtilis BDG-8. J envir Biol 2014, 35(6), 1151-5.

Lipases are biocatalyst having wide applications in industries due to their versatile properties. In the present study, a lipolytic bacterial strain, Bacillus subtilis BDG-8 was isolated from an oil based industrial soil. The effect of selenium and nickel as a media supplement on enhancement of lipase production, was studied individually with the isolated strain by varying the concentration of selected metal. 60 g l^{-1 selenium enhanced lipase production to an enzyme activity measuring 7.8 U ml-1 while 40 g l-1 nickel gave the maximum enzyme activity equivalent to 7.5 U ml-1. However, nickel and selenium together at a range of concentration with an equal w/v ratio, at 60 g l-1 each, showed the maximum lipase activity of 8.5 U ml-1. The effect of pH and temperature on lipase production showed maximum enzyme activity in the presence of each of the metals at pH 7 and 35°C among the other tested ranges. After optimisation of the parameters such as metal concentration, pH and temperature lipase production by Bacillus subtilis BDG-8 had increased several folds. This preliminary investigation may consequently lead as to various industrial applications such as treatment of wastewater contaminated with metal or oil with simultaneous lipase production.}

2 illus, 1 table, 25 ref

020585   Deshmukh Y K;Sao S;Chandraker D;Verma L;Sahu P;Siddique R (Life Science Dep, Dr. C.V. Raman Univ, Bilaspur-495 113, Email: ydeshmukh39@gmail.com) : Isolation and estimation (biochemical analysis) of lipolytic bacteria from unsalted butter. J Ind Pollut Control 2014, 30(2), 315-18.

Bacterial lipase is produced from lipolytic bacteria; Bacterial lipases (lipolytic enzymes) hydrolyze milk fat and release small molecular volatile fatty acids (butyric acid, cuprioic and cuprioic acid). Thus they referred as lipolytic bacteria. The lipolytic bacteria are key responsible for spoilage of milk products and milk products exhibited predominantly bitter flavours while sometimes showed mostly sour flavors. Microbial lipase has many applications in cosmetics, medical diagnostic, therapeutic, detergents and cleaning agents. Butter fat agar medium is suitable for the growth of lipolytic bacteria.

1 illus, 3 tables, 16 ref

020584   Deshmukh Y K;Sao S (Life Science Dep, Dr. C.V. Raman Univ, Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh-495 113, Email: ydeshmukh39@gmail.com) : Chitin and chitosan-most convenient natural matter and its various uses. J Ind Pollut Control 2014, 30(2), 267-8.

Chitosan is a polysaccharide biopolymer obtained by alkaline deacetylation of natural chitins. Chitinis the most abundant natural amino polysaccharide. Chitosan is so prolific as to be capable of being applied in the production of various products and for a variety of uses; one of the advantage of chitin and its derivatives is the lasting quality of their hydrating effect. Traditional markets for the compounds include agriculture and food, cosmetics, healthcare, pulp and paper, textiles and water treatment, among others. The chemical also finds use in hair and skin care products including shampoos, conditioners and moisturizers. Furthermore, glucosamine, a chitin derivative is used in neutraceutical formulations for the treatment of joint problems.

16 ref

020583   De M (Botany Dep, Gurudas College, Kolkata, Email: mitude@rediffmail.com) : Biocultural diversity of folk rice variety heritage of West Bengal. J envir Sociobiol 2014, 11(1), 95-100.

Traditional or folk rice varieties are important component of the biocultural heritage of any nation. Wherever the rice (Oryza sativa L.) crop has been planted, festivals, traditions, rituals and languages celebrate its importance. Traditional folk rice varieties play a dynamic role in the expression of biological and cultural diversity. Recent studies have asserted the need to understand the inter-connectedness of folkloric biocultural diversity and agro-biodiversity, including how farmers incorporate new crops and varieties in their current repertoire to meet cultural and environmental needs of society. Folk rice varieties are the farmers' varieties that are selected and maintained for one or more distinctive properties. These folk varieties meet local cultural practices and environmental constraints, and play an intrinsic role in cultural survival by constituting a living repository of ancestral customs. There are numerous traditional folk varieties of rice grown in West Bengal and also rice features in numerous traditions and rituals of West Bengal. This paper focuses on rich biocultural diversity of folk rice variety heritage of West Bengal.

2 tables, 9 ref

020582   Chatterjee M;Bandyopadhyay A R (Anthropology Dep, Calcutta Univ, Kolkata, Email: arup_cu@rediffmail.com) : Primate hair variation : a study on quantitative traits. J Indian Anthrop Soc 2014, 49(1), 141-7.

Hairs morphology differs considerably among closely related mammalian taxa and they are highly plastic in terms of adaptation to habitat condition. An important aspect of hair evolution is the considerable reduction in hair cover in adult humans during their recent history, i.e. humans-African apes split. The major components of hair are alpha-keratins and keratin associated proteins, each of which are encoded by multigene families. Studies revealed that examination of hair structures may be useful for understanding evolutionary biology. In view of the above the present study has been attempted on hair strands of adult male Chimpanzee (Pan Paniscus) and Human. The results demonstrate significantly (p<60>0.05) higher shaft diameter in human compared to the Chimpanzee, while in contrast medulla diameter was found to be significantly (p<60>0.05) lower in human in comparison to that of the Chimpanzee. The present study, therefore, reports increased hair shaft diameter (thicker hair) in course of human evolution and on the other hand, decreased medulla diameter which indicate the possibility of obliteration or replacement by cortical cells in the cortex region.

3 tables, 33 ref

020581   Chandra A K;Monda C;Sinha S;Chakraborty A; Pearce E N (Endocrinology & Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Physiology Dep, Calcutta Univ, Kolkata-700 009, Email: physiology.ac@gmail.com) : Synergic actions of polyphenols and cyanogens of peanut seed coat (Arachis hypogaea) on cytological, biochemical and functional changes in thyroid. Indian J expl Biol 2015, 53(3), 143-51.

In animals, long-term feeding with peanut (Arachis hypogaea) seed coats causes hypertrophy and hyperplasia of the thyroid gland. However, to date there have been no detailed studies. Here, we explored the thyroidal effects of dietary peanut seed coats (PSC) in rats. The PSC has high levels of pro-goitrogenic substances including phenolic and other cyanogenic constituents. The PSC was mixed with a standard diet and fed to rats for 30 and 60 days, respectively. Animals fed with the PSC-supplemented diet showed a significant increase in urinary excretion of thiocyanate and iodine, thyroid enlargement, and hypertrophy and/or hyperplasia of thyroid follicles. In addition, there was inhibition of thyroid peroxidase (TPO) activity, 5'-deiodinase-I (DIO1) activity, and (Na^{+-K+)-ATPase activity in the experimental groups of rats as compared to controls. Furthermore, the PSC fed animals exhibited decreased serum circulating total T4 and T3 levels, severe in the group treated for longer duration. These data indicate that PSC could be a novel disruptor of thyroid function, due to synergistic actions of phenolic as well as cyanogenic constituents.}

5 illus, 1 table, 47 ref

020580   Chakraborty S (NO, Formerly Zoological Survey of India, Kolkata, Email: sujitrinazsi@yahoo.co.in) : Heritage: our responsibility. J envir Sociobiol 2014, 11(1), 89-93.

Richness, uniqueness, significance and importance of natural and cultural heritage of India have been discussed. National and international measures taken for conservation of the same are stated. Degradation of our heritage is going unabated. Examples of successful conservation programmes through peoples' participation are cited. Responsibilities of the present generation to ensure safe transfer of heritage to the future generations for their well-being are focused.

16 ref

020579   Bhuvaneswari S;Manonmani A M;Geetha I (Unit of Microbiology and Molecular Biology, Vector Control Research Centre (ICMR), Puducherry) : Cost-effective medium for the production of mosquito pupicidal lipopeptide from Bacillus subtilis Subsp. Subtilis (VCRC B471). J Vector Borne Dis 2015, 52(1), 58-62.

A cyclic lipopeptide (CLP), surfactin produced by a strain of Bacillus subtilis subsp. subtilis (VCRC B471) was found to exhibit mosquitocidal activity. The present study was carried out to enhance the surfactin level using low cost material in the production medium. Two carbon sources, glucose and common sugar, and two nitrogen sources, ammonium nitrate and soya were used in the study. Different concentrations of 'C' and 'N' sources were used in the production medium to enhance the production of surfactin.A new medium (SS7) containing 2% sugar, 6% soya and 0.5% common salt with micronutrients was designed which was found to enhance the production of surfactin. The crude mosquitocidal metabolite (CMM) produced in this medium was 3 g/l which was two times higher than that obtained using synthetic medium NYSM. The LC₅₀ dosage of the CMM to the pupal stages of An. stephensi (2.3 μg/ml) was comparable to that obtained with CMM from the conventional medium. The newly designed cost-effective medium designated as sugar soya medium (SSM) enhanced the production of surfactin and the cost of production was estimated as Rs.6 per litre, which is six times lesser than that of the conventional medium. Replacement of sodium chloride with cooking salt further reduced the cost of the medium.

1 illus, 3 tables, 24 ref

020578   Banerjee K;Amin G;Chakraborty S;Pramanick P; Ghosh R;Fazli P;Zaman S;Biswas P;Pal N;Mitra A (NO, , ) : Bioaccumulation pattern of heavy metals in saltmarsh grass (Porteresia coarctata) of Indian Sundarbans. J Energy envir Carbon Credits 2014, 4(3), 1-10.

Heavy metals (Zn, Cu and Pb) in saltmarsh grass tissue inhabiting Indian Sundarbans were studied during 2011-12. The selected heavy metals in the present study area originate from municipal and industrial sources. Samples from three different sites of deltaic Sundarbans were analyzed for selected heavy metals by AAS (atomic absorption spectrophotometer). The mean values of heavy metal concentrations were highest in Zn (68.17 ± 12.11 to 112.67 ± 30.17 in 2011; 74.72 ± 11.92 to 118.46 ± 30.22 in 2012) followed by Cu (27.53 ± 4.36 to 42.47 ± 9.96 in 2011; 30.81 ± 4.40 to 45.66 ± 9.87 in 2012) and Pb (5.49 ± 1.91 to 13.23 ± 3.00 in 2011; 7.10 ± 1.95 to 15.04 ± 3.31 in 2012) in all the selected stations. Significant positive correlations were observed between tissue metals and dissolved metals, whereas significant negative correlations were observed between tissue metals and biologically available heavy metal in sediment irrespective of all stations. ANOVA results exhibit significant spatial variations in tissue metal concentrations.

illus

019674   Yan M;Ding S;Liu L;Yin X;Shu J (School of Life Science, Hunan Univ of Science and Technology, Xiangtan, Hunan 411201, People's Republic of China, Email: ymljack@126.com) : Cloning and expression analysis of an anthocyanidin synthase gene homologue from Brassica carinanta. J Genet 2014, 93(2), 513-16.

^ssc3 illus, 8 ref

019673   Xu R;Sun P;Jia F;Lu L;Li Y;Zhang S;Huang J (Key Laboratory of Biology and Molecular Biology in Univ of Shandong, Weifang Univ, Weifang, Shandong 261061, People's Republic of China, Email: shizhongsdau@gmail.com) : Genomewide analysis of TCP transcription factor gene family in Malus domestica. J Genet 2014, 93(3), 733-46.

Teosinte branched1/cycloidea/proliferating cell factor1 (TCP) proteins are a large family of transcriptional regulators in angiosperms. They are involved in various biological processes, including development and plant metabolism pathways. In this study, a total of 52 TCP genes were identified in apple (Malus domestica) genome. Bioinformatic methods were employed to predicate and analyse their relevant gene classification, gene structure, chromosome location, sequence alignment and conserved domains of MdTCP proteins. Expression analysis from microarray data showed that the expression levels of 28 and 51 MdTCP genes changed during the ripening and rootstock-scion interaction processes, respectively. The expression patterns of 12 selected MdTCP genes were analysed in different tissues and in response to abiotic stresses. All of the selected genes were detected in at least one of the tissues tested, and most of them were modulated by adverse treatments indicating that the MdTCPs were involved in various developmental and physiological processes. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study of a genomewide analysis of apple TCP gene family. These results provide valuable information for studies on functions of the TCP transcription factor genes in apple.

9 illus, 3 tables, 40 ref

019672   Wang S;Wang R;Xu T (Laboratory of Fish Biogenetics and Immune Evolution, College of Marine Science, Zhejiang Ocean Univ, Zhoushan 316022, People's Republic of China, Email: tianjunxu163.com) : Purifying selection on leptin genes in teleosts may be due to poikilothermy. J Genet 2014, 93(2), 551-6.

^ssc1 illus, 3 tables, 41 ref

019671   Villela D;Schlesinger D;Suemoto C K;Grinberg L T;Rosenberg C (Genetics and Evolutionary Biology Dep, Institute of Biosciences, Univ of Sao Paulo, Rua do Matao 277, 05508-090, Sao Paulo, Brazil, Email: carlarosenberg@uol.com.br) : Microdeletion in alzheimer's disease disrupts NAMPT gene. J Genet 2014, 93(2), 535-7.

^ssc1 illus, 1 table, 11 ref

019670   Umap S;Jangde C R;Tiwari V;Jahan A;Limsay R P;Sawarkar A (Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology Dep, Nagpur Veterinary College, MAFSU, Nagpur, Maharashtra-440 006, Email: vijeytavet@gmail.com) : Effect of Morinda citrifolia on hemato-biochemical profile on dimethoate toxicity in rats. J Vet Pharmac Toxic 2014, 13(2), 128-30.

In present study, thirty six adult male wistar albino rats were randomly divided into six groups, of six rats in each. Group I served as negative control and treated with distilled water. Group II was administered with 1/10th of LD₅₀ of dimethoate (31mg/kg). Group III served as standard amelioration group received dimethoate (31mg/kg) along with Vitamin E (150mg/ kg). While group IV, V and VI received dimethoate in same dose (31mg/kg) along with hydroethanolic extract of fruit of Morinda citrifolia @ 75 mg/kg, 150 mg/kg and 300 mg/kg body wt respectively for 28 days. Study revealed significant increased levels of ALT, AST, ALP, and Uric acid in group ll where as Group IV, V and VI showed decreasing trend in the levels of all parameters with significant (P<60>0.05) result in group-ill (dimethoate + Vit E) and VI. However, it did not produce any significant change in the level of LDH. Decreased level of total protein and hemoglobin (Hb) was observed in dimethoate treated group which was found to change significantly (P<60>0.05) indifferent treatment groups. Total erythrocyte count (TEC) and Total leukocyte count (TLC) showed non significant changes when compared with Group II. It is concluded from this study that the fruit extract of Morinda citrifolia possessed a potential protective effect against dimethoate induced toxicity.

1 table, 18 ref

019669   Solc R;Hirschfeldova K;Kebrdlova V;Baxova A (Faculty of Science, Anthropology and Human Genetics Dep, Charles Univ in Prague, Vinicna 7, Prague 2, 128 43, Czech Republic, Email: roman.solc@natur.cuni.cz) : Analysis of common SHOX gene sequence variants and <126>4.9-kb PAR1 deletion in ISS patients. J Genet 2014, 93(2), 505-8.

^ssc5 illus, 1 table, 11 ref

019668   Singh S H;Prabodh Kumar;Ramachandra N B; Nongthomba U (Molecular Reproduction, Development and Genetics, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore-560 012) : Roles of the troponin isoforms during indirect flight muscle development in Drosophila. J Genet 2014, 93(2), 379-88.

Troponin proteins in cooperative interaction with tropomyosin are responsible for controlling the contraction of the striated muscles in response to changes in the intracellular calcium concentration. Contractility of the muscle is determined by the constituent protein isoforms, and the isoforms can switch over from one form to another depending on physiological demands and pathological conditions. In Drosophila, a majority of the myofibrillar proteins in the indirect flight muscles (IFMs) undergo post-transcriptional and post-translational isoform changes during pupal to adult metamorphosis to meet the high energy and mechanical demands of flight. Using a newly generated Gal4 strain (UH3-Gal4) which is expressed exclusively in the IFMs, during later stages of development, we have looked at the developmental and functional importance of each of the troponin subunits (troponin-I, troponin-T and troponin-C) and their isoforms. We show that all the troponin subunits are required for normal myofibril assembly and flight, except for the troponin-C isoform 1 (TnC1). Moreover, rescue experiments conducted with troponin-I embryonic isoform in the IFMs, where flies were rendered flightless, show developmental and functional differences of TnI isoforms and importance of maintaining the right isoform.

4 illus, 1 table, 45 ref

019667   Singh S;Bhushan Shashi S (Zoology Dep, K. S. College, Laheriasarai (LNMU)-846 003, Email: sbshashi2013@gmail.com) : Limnobiotic status of a milkichak rural area fish culture pond of Darbhanga, Bihar. Envir Ecol 2014, 32(4B), 1804-6.

The present study was undertaken to investigate limnobiotic status of a Milkichak rural area fish culture pond of district Darbhanga, Bihar from January 2012 to December 2012. Physico-chemical analysis of pond water exhibited richness in magnesium, calcium, chloride, nitrates and phosphate which favored the growth of phytoplankton. The pond water was analyzed for various physic-chemical parameters e.g. AT, WT, TR, pH, TDS. DO₂. The paper also indicates the population density of planktons in this pond during the studied period.

2 tables, 10 ref

019666   Shobha K S;Sachidanandaswamy H C;Mallikarjun N;Onkarappa R;Amrutha C J (P G Dep of Studies and Research in Microbiology, Sahyadri Science College (Autonomus), Shimoga, (Karnataka), Email: shobha.actino@gmail.com) : Bioelectricity from antibiotic resistant Micrococcus luteus of Computer Key Boards and Mice. Int J Pharm Life Sci 2014, 5(3), 3377-80.

In this study electricity generation was evaluated in a simple set up of two electrodes, immersed with cell suspensions of Micrococcus luteusisolated from computer key boards and Mice, with copper and Zinc electrodes. Fresh broth cultures of bacterial isolates grown in nutrient media and cells were concentrated by centrifugation. These cells were suspended in sterile water and subjected for assay. All the isolates showed positive result for current production which was measured using Voltmeter of 500 milli volts capacity. The amount of current generated by all the six isolates ranged between 0.49 -0.91 milli volts. The stability in current production (0.60) was observed up to three days in key board isolate [K4] whereas the Micrococcus luteusshowed increase in current production from 0.53- 0.64 milli volts, and decreased production was observed in remaining isolates. Further studies on factors influencing current production like size, type of electrodes used, and concentration of substrates used and length of incubation by these isolates are under progress.

1 illus, 1 table, 21 ref

019665   Shi H;Zhang Y (College of Horticulture, Agricultural Univ of Hebei, Baoding 071001, People's Republic of China) : Pear 14-3-3a gene (Pp14-3-3a) is regulated during fruit ripening and senescense, and involved in response to salicylic acid and ethylene signalling. J Genet 2014, 93(3), 747-53.

14-3-3 proteins play important roles in regulating plant development and phytohormone (abscisic acid, gibberellin and brassinosteroids) signalling. However, their regulation in fruit ripening and senescense, and response to salicylic acid and ethylene signalling are yet to be illustrated. One cDNA encoding putative 14-3-3 protein was isolated from pear (Pyrus pyrifolia) and designated Pp14-3-3a. Phylogenetic analysis clearly demonstrated that Pp14-3-3a belonged to ε-like group of 14-3-3 superfamilies. Real-time quantitative PCR analysis indicated that the expression ofPp14-3-3a gene was developmentally regulated in the fruit. Further study demonstrated that Pp14-3-3a expression was inhibited by salicylic acid and induced by ethylene precursor 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid in pear fruit. These data suggested that Pp14-3-3a might be involved in response to salicylic acid and ethylene signalling during fruit ripening and senescence of pear.

6 illus, 47 ref

019664   Scaria V (GN Ramachandran Knowledge Center for Genome Informatics, CSIR Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (CSIR-IGIB), Mall Road, New Delhi-110 007) : Personal genomes, participatory genomics and the anonymity-privacy conundrum. J Genet 2014, 93(3), 917-20.

31 ref

019663   Roy M;Tapadia M G;Joshi S;Koch B (Zoology Dep, Banaras Hindu Univ, Varanasi-221 005, Email: madhubhu09@gmail.com) : Molecular and genetic basis of depression. J Genet 2014, 93(3), 879-92.

Joyousness or sadness is normal reaction to state of life. If any of these lead to certain semi-permanent changes in daily life, then it is termed as mental disorder. Depression is one of the mental disorders with a state of low mood and aversion to activities that exerts a negative effect on a person's thoughts and behaviour. Adolescent group is probably the world's largest active group of people, who are getting prone to this state of mind leading to their diminished mental and physical abilities. Depression is closely linked to stress and thus a chronic stressful life can increase the risk of depression. Depression is a complex disease having both genetic and environmental components as contributing factors. In this study an attempt has been made to put forward the understanding of the known genes and their functional relationships with depression and stress with special reference to BDNF and 5-HTTLPR. Analysis of common genetic variants associated with depression, especially in the members of a family who had a previous history, might help in identifying the individuals at risk prior to the onset of depression.

1 illus, 1 table, 199 ref

019662   Rodriguez-Perez J M;Martinez-Rodriguez N; Vargas-Alarcon G;Vallejo M;Monroy-Munoz I E;Posadas-Romero C; Kimura-Hayama E;Juarez-Cedillo T;Fragoso J M;Perez-Hernandez M (Molecular Biology Dep, Instituto Nacional de Cardiologia Ignacio Chavez, CP 14080, Mexico City, Mexico, Email: unicanona@yahoo.com.mx) : TIMP2 gene polymorphisms are associated with hypertension in patients with myocardial infarction. J Genet 2014, 93(2), 517-22.

^ssc2 tables, 23 ref

019661   Renny M;Julio N B;Bernardi S F;Gardenal C N; Oyarzabal M I (Catedra de Genetica de Poblaciones y Evolucion, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Fisicas y Naturales, Universidad Nacion, Argentina, Velez Sarsfield 299 (5000) Cordoba, Argentina, Email: moyarzab@fveter.unr.edu.ar) : Estimation of genetic variability level in inbred CF1 mouse lines selected for body weight. J Genet 2014, 93(2), 483-7.

^ssc1 illus, 1 table, 20 ref

019660   Ren Q;Yuan J;Ren L;Zhang L;Zhang L;Jiang L; Chen D;Kan X;Zhang B (The Institute of Bioinformatics, College of Life Sciences, Anhui Normal Univ, Wuhu 241000, People's Republic of China, Email: zhangbw@ahu.ed.cn) : The complete mitochondrial genome of the yellow-browed bunting, Emberiza chrysophrys (Passeriformes: Emberizidae), and phylogenetic relationships within the genus Emberiza. J Genet 2014, 93(3), 699-701.

Mitochondrial genomes have proved to be powerful tools in resolving phylogenetic relationships. Emberiza chrysophrys (least concern species: IUCN 2013) is a passerine bird in the bunting family, Emberizidae. The complete mitochondrial genome of E. chrysophrys was sequenced. This circular mitochondrial genome was 16,803 bp in length, with an A+T content of 52.26%, containing 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), two rRNAs, 22 tRNAs and a putative control region (CR). The CR of E. chrysophrys was divided into three conserved domains. Six conserved sequence boxes in the central conserved domain II were identified as F, E, D, C, b and B. An obvious positive AT-skew and negative GC-skew bias were found for all 28 genes encoded by the H strand, whereas it was the reverse in the remaining nine genes encoded by the L strand. Remarkable rate heterogeneity was present in the mitochondrial genome of E. chrysophrys. Notably, unusual slow rate of evolution in the mitochondrial CR of E. chrysophrys was detected, which is rarely seen in other birds. Phylogenetic analyses were carried out based on 13 PCGs that showed E. pusilla was the sister group of E. rustica, and the monophyly of Emberiza was established.

6 illus, 4 tables, 46 ref

019659   Pramod S;Perkins A D;Welch M E (Biological Sciences Dep, Mississippi State Univ, 219 Harned Hall, 295 Lee Boulevard, MS 39762, USA, Email: sreepriyapramod@gmail.com) : Patterns of microsatellite evolution inferred from the Helianthus annuus (Asteraceae) transcriptome. J Genet 2014, 93(2), 431-42.

The distribution of microsatellites in exons, and their association with gene ontology (GO) terms is explored to elucidate patterns of microsatellite evolution in the common sunflower, Helianthus annuus. The relative position, motif, size and level of impurity were estimated for each microsatellite in the unigene database available from the Compositae Genome Project (CGP), and statistical analyses were performed to determine if differences in microsatellite distributions and enrichment within certain GO terms were significant. There are more translated than untranslated microsatellites, implying that many bring about structural changes in proteins. However, the greatest density is observed within the UTRs, particularly 5'UTRs. Further, UTR microsatellites are purer and longer than coding region microsatellites. This suggests that UTR microsatellites are either younger and under more relaxed constraints, or that purifying selection limits impurities, and directional selection favours their expansion. GOs associated with response to various environmental stimuli including water deprivation and salt stress were significantly enriched with microsatellites. This may suggest that these GOs are more labile in plant genomes, or that selection has favoured the maintenance of microsatellites in these genes over others. This study shows that the distribution of transcribed microsatellites in H. annuus is nonrandom, the coding region microsatellites are under greater constraint compared to the UTR microsatellites, and that these sequences are enriched within genes that regulate plant responses to environmental stress and stimuli.

6 illus, 3 tables, 69 ref

019658   Pavia I;Carvalho A;Rocha L;Gaspar M J; Lima-Brito J (Institute for Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Univ of Tras-os-Montes and Alto Douro, 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal, Email: jbrito@utad.pt.) : Physical location of SSR regions and cytogenetic instabilities in Pinus sylvestris chromosomes revealed by ND-FISH. J Genet 2014, 93(2), 567-71.

^ssc2 illus, 1 table, 22 ref

019657   Patnaik M;Pati P;Swain S N;Mohapatra M K; Dwibedi B;Kar S K;Ranjit M (Molecular Biology Dep, Regional Medical Research Centre, Chandrasekharpur, Bhubaneswar-751 023) : Aldosterone synthase C-334T, angiotensin II type 1 receptor A1166C and 11-β hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase G534A gene polymorphisms and essential hypertension in the population of Odisha, India. J Genet 2014, 93(3), 799-808.

Essential hypertension which accounts 90-95% of the total hypertension cases is affected by both genetic and environmental factors. This study was undertaken to investigate the association of aldosterone synthase C-344T, angiotensin II type I receptor A1166C and 11- β hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 G534A polymorphisms with essential hypertension in the population of Odisha, India. A total of 246 hypertensive subjects (males, 159; females, 87) and 274 normal healthy individuals (males, 158; females, 116) were enrolled in this study based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Analysis of genetic and biochemical data revealed that in this population the CT and TT genotypes of aldosterone synthase C-344T polymorphism, frequency of alcohol consumption and aldosterone levels were significantly high among the total as well as male hypertensives, while the AC and CC genotypes of angiotensin II type I receptor A1166C polymorphism were significantly high among the total as well as female hypertensives. High density lipoprotein levels were higher in male hypertensives.

3 illus, 6 tables, 40 ref

019656   Patel J B;Sadariya K A;Vihol K A;Thaker A M (Pharmacology and Toxicology Dep, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anand Agriculural, Anand-388 001, Email: dr_kasadariya@yahoo.co.in) : Hemato-biochemical and histopathological evaluation following repeated oral administration of atorvastatin in hyperlipidemic rats. J Vet Pharmac Toxic 2014, 13(2), 131-5.

Study was carried out to evaluate the toxic effects of atorvastatin in hyperlipidemic rats. Hyperlipidemia was induced by poloxamer-407 @ 500 mg/kg, i. p., at every 3 days interval in rats. A total of 30 rats were divided randomly and equally into 5 groups. Groups I and II served as vehicle and hyperlipidemic control and groups III, IV and V were given atorvastatin at 0.5,2.5 and 5.0 mg/kg b wt, respectively for 28 days. At the end of study, haemo-biochemical and histopathological examinations of vital organs were performed. An increase in levels of AST, ALT, ALP and total bilirubin was observed. Histopathological lesions indicated hepatocellular damage suggesting atorvastatin induced hepatotoxicity in rats @ 2.5 and 5.0 mg/kg. Additionally myotoxicity was confirmed by observing increased level of creatinine, CK, LDH and AST along with histopathological lesions in heart and skeletal muscles in group V. Sections of kidney of rats of group V showed tubular degeneration and necrosis along with rise in creatinine suggesting nephrotoxicity. On repeated exposure, atorvastatin has been found to produce antihyperlipidemic effects and dose dependent damage to the liver, skeletal muscles, heart muscles and kidney in poloxamer-407 induced hyperlipidemic rats.

6 illus, 2 tables, 19 ref

019655   Neocleous V;Costi C;Shammas C;Spanou F; Anastasiadou V;Tanteles G A;Phylactou L A (Molecular Genetics Dep, Function and Therapy, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, 1683 Nicosia, Cyprus, Email: laphylac@cing.ac.cy) : Spectrum of GJB2 mutations in cypriot nonsyndromic hearing loss subjects. J Genet 2014, 93(2), 471-6.

^ssc2 illus, 2 tables, 22 ref

019654   Mostafa S;Ali J S;Mohammed M S (Animal Science Dep, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Tehran Univ, Karaj 3158777871, Iran) : Associations of POU1F1 gene polymorphisms and protein structure changes with growth traits and blood metaboolites in two Iranian sheep breeds. J Genet 2014, 93(3), 831-5.

3 illus, 2 tables, 30 ref

019653   Mitra A K;Singh A;Rath S K (Institute of Human Genetics, Genetics Dep, Cell Biology and Development, Minnesota Univ, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA, Email: mitra79@gmail.com) : LIG1 polymorphisms: the Indian scenario. J Genet 2014, 93(2), 459-69.

Elucidation of the genetic diversity and relatedness of the subpopulations of India may provide a unique resource for future analysis of genetic association of several critical community-specific complex diseases. We performed a comprehensive exploration of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within the gene DNA ligase 1 (LIG1) among a multiethnic panel of Indian subpopulations representative of the ethnic, linguistic and geographical diversity of India using a two-stage design involving DNA resequencing-based SNP discovery followed by SNP validation using sequenom-based genotyping. Thirty SNPs were identified in LIG1 gene using DNA resequencing including three promoter SNPs and one coding SNP. Following SNP validation, the SNPs rs20580/C19008A and rs3730862/C8804T were found to have the most widespread prevalence with noticeable variations in minor allele frequencies both between the Indian subpopulation groups and also from those reported on other major world populations. Subsequently, SNPs found in Indian subpopulations were analysed using bioinformatics-based approaches and compared with SNP data available on major world populations. Further, we also performed genotype-phenotype association analysis of LIG1 SNPs with publicly available data on LIG1 mRNA expression in HapMap samples. Results showed polymorphisms in LIG1 affect its expression and may therefore change its function. Our results stress upon the uniqueness of the Indian population with respect to the worldwide scenario and suggest that any epidemiological study undertaken on the global population should take this distinctiveness in consideration and avoid making generalized conclusions.

4 illus, 6 tables, 30 ref

019652   Mir A H;Sultana M;Dar M A;Chirag S;Sagar R; Raina R;Pankaj N K (Veterinary Pharmacology & Toxicology Div, IIVER, Rohtak, Haryana, Email: drarshadmir@gmail.com) : Biochemical alterations induced by tefluthrin and aluminum in rats. J Vet Pharmac Toxic 2014, 13(2), 112-14.

Aim of present study was to evaluate single and interactive toxic potential of tefluthrin and aluminum in wistar rats after their oral administration for a period of 28 days. The animals were divided into four groups with six rats in each group. Group I served as control and rats were orally administered with corn oil. Group II animals were orally exposed to tefluthrin @ (1/20 LD₅₀) after its dissolution in corn oil. Animals in group III were orally administered with aluminum chloride @ 34mg/kg (1/25 LD₅₀) in water while as animals in group IV were administered with both tefluthrun @ 1.1mg/kg (1/20 LD₅₀) and aluminum chloride (5) 34mg/kg (1/25 LD₅₀). Significant (P<60>0.05) increase in enzymes like ALT, AST, AKP, ACP and LDH was observed in group II and III as compared to control group i after 28th day of oral treatment. More significant increase in these enzymes were observed in group IV receiving both tefluthrin and aluminum chloride as compared to groups I, II and III. Biochemical variables like total plasma protein and albumin decreased significantly (P<60>0.05) in group II, III and IV as compared to control with changes in group IV even differing significantly (P<60>0.05) from group II and III. Significant increase in urea and creatinine levels were observed in group II, III and IV as compared to group I with significantly (P<60>0.05) increased creatinine concentration in group IV even from group II and III. The present study, therefore, draw an inference that the toxicity of tefuthrin is enhanced in the present of aluminum and together can cause severe health implications in animals.

2 tables, 16 ref

019651   Mei L;Huang Y;Pan Q;Li H;Liang D;Wu L (State Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Central South Univ, Changsha, Hunan 410078, People's Republic of China, Email: wulingqian@sklmg.edu.cn.) : Identification of a novel SHOX mutation in a chinese family with isolated madelung deformity. J Genet 2014, 93(3), 809-12.

2 illus, 2 tables, 18 ref

019650   Masson S;Faivre C;Giraud I;Souty-Grosset C; Cordaux R;Delaunay C;Bouchon D;Bech N (Laboratoire Ecologie et Biologie des Interactions, equipe Ecologie Evolution Symbiose, Universite de Poitiers, UMR CNRS 7267, 6 rue Michel Brunet, TSA 51106, 86073 Poitiers Cedex 9, France, Email: nicolas.bech@univ-poitiers.fr ) : Development of a microsatellite primer set to investigate the genetic population structure of Armadillidium nasatum (crustacea, oniscidea). J Genet 2014, 93(2), 545-9.

^ssc2 tables, 23 ref

019649   Markakis M N;Soedering V E;Dantzer V; Christensen K;Anistoroaei R (Biology Dep, Plant Growth and Development, Antwerp Univ, 2020 Antwerp, Belgium, Email: ran@sund.ku.dk) : Association of MITF gene with hearing and pigmentation phenotype in hedlund white American mink (Neovison vison). J Genet 2014, 93(2), 477-81.

^ssc2 illus, 20 ref

019648   Madhuri B A;Qairunnisa S;Suresh M;Kondam K A; Chandrasekhar M (Physiology Dep, Meenakshi Medical College & Research Institute, Enathur, Kanchipuram-632 552, Email: antonymadhuri@gmail.com) : Antioxidant changes in wistar albino rats after acute heat stress. Int J pharm Sci Res 2014, 5(9), 3999-4003.

The present study was done to evaluate the antioxidant status in rats after acute heatstress. Twelve male swiss albino rats were randomly divided in to two groups, control group and experimental group. Experimental group of rats were exposed to acute heat stress at 38°c for duration of four hours for single day. Blood from the jugular vein was collected for the estimation of antioxidant status like LPO and SOD, GPx, CAT, vitamin C and vitamin E in rats. After exposure to acute heat stress there was a significant and progressive increase (P<60>0.05) in LPO levels of experimental group than compared to controls. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), Glutathione peroxidase (GPx) Catalase, vitamin C and vitamin Eshowed significant decrease (P<60>0.05) in experimental group compared to control group. The findings of the present study suggest that oxidative stress increases progressively and the structural damage to the tissues may be due to oxidative stress.

24 ref

019647   Li Y;Wang J;Xie Y;Liu S;Tian Y (Hebei Key Lab of Laboratory Animal, Hebei Medical Univ, Shijiazhuang 050017, People's Republic of China, Email: liushf@126.com) : Pattern of change in histone 3 lysine 9 acetylation and histone deacetylases in development of zebrafish embryo. J Genet 2014, 93(2), 539-44.

^ssc4 illus, 1 table, 29 ref

019646   Li Y;Kong Y;Zhang Z;Yin Y;Liu B;Lv G;Wang X (Key Laboratory of Biogeography and Bioresource in Arid Land, Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Urumqi 830011, People's Republic of China, Email: binliu568@hotmail.com) : Phylogeny and biogeography of Alyssum (Brassicaceae) based on nuclear ribosomal ITS DNA sequences. J Genet 2014, 93(2), 313-23.

The genus Alyssum consists of about 195 species native to Europe, Asia and northern Africa. All species were assigned to six sections. Previous molecular phylogeny studies indicate that Alyssum is polyphyletic. However, the divergence time and dispersal of the genus are not well studied. In this study, the phylogenetic relationships within the genus Alyssum were studied with nrDNA ITS sequences obtained from five sections. The divergence time was estimated by fossil calibration and the biogeography was examined by spread analysis. The phylogeny indicated two main lineages: lineage 1 includes the section of Alyssum, Gamosepalum and Psilonema; lineage 2 includes the section of Odontarrhena, Meniocus and Clypeola. The phylogenetic relationship was not congruent with the previous sectional classifications. The age of Alyssum was dated to the upper Miocene. Molecular data suggested the diversification of Alyssum in Mediterranean areas and wide-ranging distribution such as North Africa, eastward into Central Asia and immigration into North America. Climatic aridification and arid/semiarid areas established in the Pliocene/Pleistocene could have provided favourable conditions for the migration and diversification of Alyssum.

3 illus, 3 tables, 71 ref

019645   Li W W;Wu Q Y;Li N;Deng D Q;Zhang R S;Cui Y X;Li X J;Xia X Y (Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing Univ School of Medicine, 305 East Zhongshan Road, Nanjing 210002, People's Republic of China, Email: xinyixia78@gmail.com) : Novel deletion mutation of the ADAR1 gene in a chinese patient with dyschromatosis symmetrica hereditaria. J Genet 2014, 93(2), 523-5.

2 illus, 5 ref

019644   Li G R;Lang T;Yang E N;Liu C;Yang Z J (School of Life Science and Technology, Univ of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan 610054, People's Republic of China, Email: yangzujun@uestc.edu.cn.) : Characterization and phylogenetic analysis of α-gliadin gene sequences reveals significant genomic divergence in triticeae species. J Genet 2014, 93(3), 725-31.

Although the unique properties of wheat α-gliadinw gene family are well characterized, little is known about the evolution and genomic divergence of α-gliadin gene family within the Triticeae. We isolated a total of 203 α-gliadin gene sequences from 11 representative diploid and polyploid Triticeae species, and found 108 sequences putatively functional. Our results indicate that α-gliadin genes may have possibly originated from wild Secale species, where the sequences contain the shortest repetitive domains and display minimum variation. A miniature inverted-repeat transposable element insertion is reported for the first time in α-gliadin gene sequence of Thinopyrum intermedium in this study, indicating that the transposable element might have contributed to the diversification of α-gliadin genes family among Triticeae genomes. The phylogenetic analyses revealed that the α-gliadin gene sequences of Dasypyrum, Australopyrum, Lophopyrum, Eremopyrumand Pseudoroengeria species have amplified several times. A search for four typical toxic epitopes for celiac disease within the Triticeae α-gliadin gene sequences showed that the α-gliadins of wild Secale, Australopyrum and Agropyron genomes lack all four epitopes, while other Triticeae species have accumulated these epitopes, suggesting that the evolution of these toxic epitopes sequences occurred during the course of speciation, domestication or polyploidization of Triticeae.

2 illus, 1 table, 36 ref

019643   Li E;Li X;Wu X;Feng G;Zhang M;Shi H;Wang L; Jiang J (College of Life Sciences, Anhui Province Key Laboratory for Conservation and Exploitation of Bio, Wuhu 241000, People's Republic of China, Email: wuxb@mail.ahnu.edu.cn) : Complete nucleotide sequence and gene rearrangement of the mitochondrial genome of Occidozyga martensii. J Genet 2014, 93(3), 631-41.

In this study, the complete nucleotide sequence (18,321 bp) of the mitochondrial (mt) genome of the round-tongued floating frog, Occidozyga martensii was determined. Although, the base composition and codon usage of O. martensii conformed to the typical vertebrate patterns, this mt genome contained 23 tRNAs (a tandem duplication of tRNA-Met gene). The LTPF tRNA-gene cluster, and the derived position of the ND5 gene downstream of the control region, were present in this mitogenome. Moreover, we found that in the WANCY tRNA-gene cluster, the tRNA-Asn gene was located between the tRNA-Tyr and COI genes instead of between the tRNA-Ala and tRNA-Cys genes which is a novel mtDNA gene rearrangement in vertebrates. Based on the concatenated nucleotide sequences of the 13 protein-coding genes, phylogenetic analysis (BI, ML, MP) was performed to further clarify the phylogenetic relations of this species within anurans.

5 illus, 2 tables, 63 ref

019642   Kota S;Charaka V K;Misra H S (Molecular Biology Div, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai-400 084, Email: hsmisra@barc.gov.in) : PprA, a pleiotropic protein for radioresistance, works through DNA gyrase and shows cellular dynamics during postirradiation recovery in Deinococcus radiodurans. J Genet 2014, 93(2), 349-54.

PprA, a pleiotropic protein involved in radioresistance of Deinococcus radiodurans was detected in multiprotein DNA processing complex identified from this bacterium. pprA mutant expressing GFP-PprA could restore its wild type resistance of γ radiation. Under normal conditions, GFP-PprA expressing cells showed PprA localization on both septum trapped nucleoids (STN) and nucleoids located elsewhere (MCN). Cell exposed to 4 kGy γ radiation showed nearly 2 h growth lag and during this growth arrest phase, the majority of the cells had GFP-PprA located on MCN. While in late phase (<126> 120 min) PIR cells, when cells are nearly out of growth arrest, PprA was maximally found with STN. These cells when treated with nalidixic acid showed diffused localization of PprA across the septum. gyrA disruption mutant of D. radiodurans showed growth inhibition, which increased further in gyrA pprA mutant. Interestingly, gyrA mutant showed <126>20-fold less resistance to γ radiation as compared to wild type, which did increase further in gyrA pprA mutant. These results suggested that PprA localization undergoes a dynamic change during PIR, and its localization on nucleoid near septum and functional interaction with gyrase A might suggest a mechanism that could explain PprA role in genome segregation possibly through topoisomerase II.

3 illus, 31 ref

019641   Kamakhya Kumar;Datta A;Bandyopadhyay A (NO, MGM Medical College, New PGT Qtr., Room No. 214, Kishanganj, Bihar-855 107, Email: drkamakhyakumar72@gmail.com) : Knowledge, problems and practices of adolescent girls during menstruation. Indian med Gaz 2015, 149(3), 85-8.

Menstruation is a normal phenomenon and is almost universal in all females of reproductive age. Adolescence has been recognized as a special period which signifies the transition from girlhood to womanhood with the start of menstruation but there are substantial lacunae in knowledge about menstruation, problems they face and practices they adopt in this period. 1. To know the knowledge about menstruation in adolescents, 2. To assess problems of menstruation, 3. To address the special needs regarding maintenance of hygiene during menstruation, 4. To notice impact of socioeconomic status upon them. A descriptive observational (cross sectional) study was carried to assess the knowledge, problems and practices by adolescent girls attending schools in a rural area of Kishanganj district (Bihar). A proforma consisted of predesigned, pretested, structured questionnaire to be filled up by the students and a check-list of height, wt, BP, HC, WC, to be filled up by the researchers were used. Results: Among 200 adolescents, 70% knew that menstruation is a normal phenomenon; 79% were suffering from menstrual problems and regarding type of absorbats; 70% were using only sanitary napkins, while 30% were using both sanitary napkins and cloth as absorbants. Conclusion: This study shows a lack of understandings of the importance of maintenance of hygiene during menstruation and a lot of gap is present between problems during menstruation in adolescents due to lack of knowledge and proper guidance.

2 tables, 15 ref

019640   Kahrizi K;Bazazzadegan N;Jamali L;Nikzat N; Kashef A;Najmabadi H (Genetics Research Center, Univ of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran 1985713834, Iran, Email: hnajm12@yahoo.com) : Novel mutation of the USH2C (GPR98) gene in an Iranian family with usher syndrome type II. J Genet 2014, 93(3), 837-41.

3 illus, 1 table, 17 ref

019639   Jaiswal S K;Sukla K K;Gupta V;Rai A K (Centre for Genetic Disorders, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu Univ, Varanasi-221 005) : Overlap of patau and pierre robin syndromes along with abnormal metabolism: an interesting case study. J Genet 2014, 93(3), 865-8.

2 illus, 18 ref

019638   Gholizadeh M;Rahimi-Mianji G;Nejati-Javaremi A;De Koning D J;Jonas E (Animal Science Dep, Laboratory for Molecular Genetics Animal Biotechnology, Faculty of Ani, Sari, Iran, Email: m.gholizadeh@sanru.ac.ir) : Genomewide association study to detect QTL for twinning rate in Baluchi sheep. J Genet 2014, 93(2), 489-93.

^ssc1 illus, 2 tables, 17 ref

019637   Gajbhiye A;Sahni Y P;Gautam V;Jain S K (Director Research Services, NDVSU, Jabalpur, Email: yashpal_sahni@yahoo.co.in) : Efficacy of Withania somnifera and Swertia chirata on lead induced immunotoxicity in rats. J Vet Pharmac Toxic 2014, 13(2), 96-7.

Indigenous medicinal plants; Withania somnifera and swertia chirata were administered at the dose rate of 500mg per kg body weight to determine their efficacy on lead-induced immunotoxicity. Lead acetate reduced the levels of serum gamma globulin; however serum gamma globulin concentration increased significantly with S. chirata followed by W. somnifera. Similarly, S. chirata and W. somnifera also reduced neutrophil adhesions count significantly which indicated the protective effect of indigenous plants. Oral administration of S. chirata for 30 consecutive days counteracted the immunosuppression of lead acetate on absolute lymphocyte count and produced a significant increase in absolute lymphocyte count. However W. somnifera did not show any significant change on absolute lymphocyte count in albino rats.

1 table, 8 ref

019636   Focher F (NO, Institute of Molecular Genetics, CNR, I-27100 Pavia, Italy, Email: focher@igm.cnr.it.) : Maupertuis: the 'old synthesis'. J Genet 2014, 93(2), 607-8.

6 ref

019635   Cordova-Fletes C;Sainz-Gonzalez E; Avendano-Galvez R I;Ramirez-Velazco A;Rivera H;OrtizLopez R; Arambula-Meraz E;Judith Picos-Cardenas V (Laboratorio de Citogenomica y Microarreglos, Departamento de Bioquimic, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, Monterrey, Nuevo Leon 64460, Mexico, Email: veronicapicos@uas.edu.mx) : De novo dir dup/del of 18q characterized by SNP arrays and fish in a girld child with mixed phenotypes. J Genet 2014, 93(3), 869-73.

3 illlus, 17 ref