002357   Saxena D K;Singh S;Srivastava K (Bryological Science Div, Botany Dep, Bareilly College, Bareilly-243 005, Email: dinesh.botany@gmail.com) : Effect of ead and copper on enzyme activity in two bryophytes. Indian J Pl Physiol 2008, 13(3), 312-16.

Effect of lead and copper on nitrate reductase activity (NRA), peroxidase (POX) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in mosses Rhodobryum roseum and Hypnum cupressiforme grown in different concentrations (control, 5, 10, 50 and 100 mM) for 7 and 15 days was studied. Level of NR activity significantly increased in comparison to control in 5 mM concentartion in 7 days treatment, which decreased if time period and concentration of metals (Pb and Cu) was increased, whereas, oxidative enzymes (i.e. POX and SOD) activity were observed to be significantly higher at all concentrations in 7 and 15 days of treatment period in both the mosses. The result suggests that Rhodobryum roseum is less sensitive to Pb and Cu in comparison to Hypnum cupressiforme.

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002356   Sarathchandra G;Balakrishnamurthy P (Central Animal Feed and Food Residue Laboratory, , Madhavaram Milk Colony Chennai-600 051) : Evaluation of Cleistanthus collinus toxicity using Chorioallantoic membrane (CAM). J Nat Conserv 2008, 20(2), 375-9.

In vitro toxicity evaluation of Cleistanthus collinus a highly toxic arylnaphalene lignan lactones phytotoxin was assessed in Chorioallantoic membrane (CAM), TC LD_50>= 85±0.10μg. Biochemical profiling at TC LD₅₀ of C. collinus revealed a significant depletion of glutathione (84.63%), ATPases (53%) as compared to that of controls. The present study validates the in vivo studies of C. collinus interaction resulting in glutathione depletion and inhibition of thiol dependent enzyme namely ATPases.

1 table, 18 ref

002355   Rosario J F;Gomez M P;Anbu P (Biochemistry Dep, St. Joseph's College (Autonomous), Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu) : Does the maternal micronutrient deficiency (Copper or zinc or vitamin E) modulate the expression of placental 11 β hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase-2 per se predispose offspring to insulin resistance and hypertension in later life ?. Indian J Physiol Pharmac 2008, 52(4), 355-65.

Relevance of maternal macronutrient deficiency on developmental origin of health and adult disorders has been well studied but not that of micronutrients. We hypothesized that chronic maternal dietary mineral (copper or zinc) or vitamin E restriction modulates the expression of placental 11 p hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase-2 (11 β HSD-2) per se predisposing the offspring to insulin resistance (IR) and hypertension in later life. Female weaning Swiss albino mice received a control or a 50% of Vitamin-E or Zn or Cu restricted diet and mated with control males. Pups born to the dams on the restricted diet had significantly (P<0.001) reduced body weight and crown rump length. These offsprings were weaned on to the restricted diet till postnatal day 180. Glucose intolerance in association with hyperinsulinemeia (IR), hyperlipidemeia and increased systolic blood pressure were recorded in all the offsprings of micronutrient restricted groups. Placental 11 p HSD-2 expression was attenuated, while activities of glucocorticoid -insensitive enzymes were unchanged in all the restricted groups. Thus, the present study reiterates the importance of micronutrients during pregnancy because chronic maternal micronutrient deficiency may alter placental 11 p HSD-2 expression and predispose the offspring to IR and hypertension in later life.

5 illus, 4 tables, 31 ref

002354   Radhika R (Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Dep, Centre for Plant Molecu, Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Coimbatore-641 003, Email: radikaravindran@gmail.com) : Comparison of the levels of enzymatic antioxidants in the plant sample Smilax chinensis and Indigofera aspalathoides. Biomed 2009, 4(3), 286-94.

Herbal samples viz., Indigofera aspalathoides, and Smilax chinensis were obtained in the dried form from the ayurvedic drug shops. Shade dried leaves of Indigofera aspalathoides and Smilax chinensis were powdered and stored in an air tight container. The activities of antioxidant enzymes was determined by suitable spectrophotometric method. Among the two plants Smilax chinensis was found to contain the highest activity of catalase, superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, gluthathione peroxidase and Indigofera aspalathoides is rich in gluthathione reductase, gluthathione-s-transferase and Polyphenol oxidase. To conclude, the study Smilax chinensis possessed significantly high activity of major enzymatic antioxidants. It would offer excellent protection against diseases caused by free radicals. It confirms with its folk use as remedy for leprosy, rheumatism, wheezing and skin disorders. In addition to this use it may also be used for treatment of HIV infections.

1 table, 31 ref

002353   Pavela R;Sajfrtova M;Sovova H;Karban J;Barnet M (Crop Research Institute, Drnovska 507, Praha 6-Ruzyme, 161 06, Czech Republic, Email: pavela@uvrv.cz) : Effects of extracts obtained by supercritical fluid extraction and traditional extraction techniques on larvae Leptinotarsa decemlineata SAY.. J essential Oil Res 2009, 21(4), 367-73.

Extracts from savory (Satureja hortensis L.) and thymus (Thijmus vulgaris L.) were obtained by supercritical fluid extraction, hydrodistillation, and Soxhlet extraction with benzene and ethanol. The composition of volatile compounds in the extracts was determined by gas chromatography, and the toxicity and antifeedant effects of the extracts on larvae of Colorado potato beetle were evaluated. Generally it is possible to claim that all extracts caused mortality in 24 h after their topical application. Significant differences between the particular extracts and plants were found. The most effective isolates were the essentials oils which showed the lowest LD₅₀. The lethal dosages of 22 μg and 29 μg were determined for oil from S. hortensis and T. vulgaris, respectively, but the difference was not significant (P < 0.05). The extracts of S. hortensis (SFE2 and SFE3) had similar efficiencies as the oils with lethal dosages of LD₅₀ 28 μg and 30 μg, respectively. Strong deterrent effects of all extracts against larvae were observed. In the no-choice test with leaf discs, the consumption of control food by the fourth instars larvae L.. decemlineata was significantly higher than the consumption of treated food in the treatment concentrations (P < 0.05). The API declined depending on the concentration.

2 illus, 4 tables, 25 ref

002352   Parmar Vilas R;Jasrai Yogesh T (Botany Dep, Univ School of Science, Gujarat Univ, Ahmedabad-380 009, Email: yjasrai@gmail.com) : Microprppagation of an important medicinal plant Aloe barbadensis Mill (Aloe vera L) for field plantation. Res J Biotechnol 2009, 4(1), 7-10.

A rapid micropropagation of Aloe barbadensis Mill was achieved from shoot tip explants cultured on MS medium supplemented with BAP (1 mg/l), NAA (0.5 mg/l) and citric acid (10 mg/ l). After 3rd subculture, almost 10-15 multiple shoots were obtained within four weeks. However, proliferation in subsequent subcultures declined. The developed shoots also demonstrated root induction on medium containing 0.7 mg/l NAA. The plantlets so generated were processed through hardening procedure for acclimatization and transfer to the soil. Through this procedure about 42 plantlets were generated from one explant over three subcultures (total 04 months). The in vitro raised plants were similar to the mother plant with general morphology.

2 illus, 19 ref

002351   Pannu M S;Gupta B K;Bhardwaj B L (Animal Nutrition Dep, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences Univ, Ludhiana-141 004) : Evaluation of new cowpea variety as livestock feed. Indian J Anim Nutr 2008, 25(3), 293-4.

Study was conducted to compare the nutritive value of new cowpea variety (CL-367) with that of existing variety (C-88). The new and existing variety contained 19.4 and 17.3% CP, 35 and 38% NFE, 46.0 and 44.2% NDF, 30.8 and 32.0% ADF, 24.4 and 26.6% cellulose, 6.4 and 5.4% lignin, respectively. The nutritive value was assessed on 12 adult male buffaloes, divided into 2 equal groups and offered respective variety of cowpeas ad lib. The daily DM intake was comparable in both the groups but the digestibility of nutrients was considerably higher in the new variety as compared to existing variety, resulting in higher nutritive value i.e. 16.8 Vs 13.1%DCP; 71.7 and 64.9% TDN, respectively. The new cowpea variety (CL-367) was superior to existing variety.

3 tables, 4 ref

002350   Nigam V K;Agarwal A;Sharma M;Ghosh P; Choudhury B (NO, Birla Institute of Scientific Reserch, Statue Circle, Jaipur-302 001) : Bioconversion of 3-cyanopyridine to nicotinic acid by a thermotable nitrilase. Res J Biotechnol 2009, 4(1), 32-6.

A thermostable nitrilase producing isolate identified as Bacillus sp. MTCC 7545 has been studied towards production of nicotinic acid from 3-cyanopyridine. The benzonitrile was observed as inducer for the enzyme production. Maximum enzyme production was observed at 24 h of incubation and the activity of nitrilase was found to be optimum at 65°C. The enzyme was stable for ~6 h at 50°C. Besides pyridine-3 carbonitrile, benzonitrile was also a preferred substrate for the enzyme.

4 illlus, 2 tables, 25 ref

002349   Narayani Prasad;Ray R P K (Biochemistry Dep, F.B.S. & H., R.A.U, Pusa, Samastipur) : Ultrasonic study of binary solution of cresol isomers in cyclohexane. J pure appl Ultrasonics 2007, 29(4), 116-24.

The ultrasonic velocities and densities of binary mixtures of o-cresol, m-cresol and p-cresol with inert cyclohexane, have been determined experimentally at 303.15 K, 308.15 K and 313.15K over entire range of composition using variable path ultrasonic interferometer and double wall pyknometer. These experimental data have been utilized to compute isentropic compressibility, intermolecular free length, molar volume, available volume and free folume as well as their excess values. The excess values, of these parameters have been evaluated and a comparative study of variation in molecular interaction of these isomers with cyclohexane has been explained on the basis of their non-linear variation with concentration and temperature. The interaction in these systems have been explained in terms of the formation of weak hydrogen bond O...H-O and absence of any strong specific interaction.

15 illus, 7 tables, 21 ref

002348   Murthy S M;Mamatha B;Shivananda T N (a, Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Bangalore-560 089, Email: tns@iihr.ernet.in) : Phytochemistry and medicinal uses of an herbage plant Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC.. Biomed 2009, 4(3), 245-51.

Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC. is an annual climbing shrub belonging to the family Fabaceae. The plant has got important value in medicine as well as a fodder crop. The seeds of this plant yield an important chemical called L-DOPA which is used in pharmaceutical industries. All parts of the plant have got medicinal value. The chemical is used mainly for Parkinson's disease. The plant is used as forage, fallow and green manure crop in many parts of the world. It is a successful cover crop with high biologically active natural products. L-DOPA also has toxic effects on humans if used unsystematically.

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002347   Lonkova L;Fuss E (Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Sofia, Dunav Str, 2, 1000 Sofia, Bulgaia, Email: ionkova@pharmfac.acad.bg) : Influence of different strains of Agrobacterium rhizogenes on induction of hairy roots and lignan production in Linum tauricum spp. tauricum. Pharmacog Mag 2009, 5(17), 14-18.

Hairy root cultures were induced from leaf explants of Linum tauricum ssp. tauricum by infection with Agrobacterium rhizogenes. Different bacterial strains of Agrobacterium rh;zogenes - TR 105 and ATCC 15834 were evaluated for induction of transformed hairy roots in Linum tauricum ssp. tauricum. These different strains varied in their virulence for induction of hairy roots in this species. Acetosyringon in cultivation medium was used to increase of frequency of hairy root induction. Growth kinetics of transgenic roots indicated a similar pattern of growth, with maximum growth occurring between 17 and 20 days. The transformed nature of tissue was confirmed by the production of opines. The lignan production of different clones was found to be growth-related. The cultures produced to 2.6% of the lignan 4'-demethyl-6-methoxypodophylotoxin (4'-DM-MPTOX) and to 3.5% of the lignan 6-methoxypodophyllotoxin (6MPTOX) on a dry weight basis, which was 10 to 12 times higher than in Linum tauricum ssp. tauricum cell suspensions. Transformed cultures showed significant differences in lignan content. The highest amount of 4'-DM-MPTOX and MPTOX was found in transformed line induced by strain ATCC 15834. Rapidly growing root lines were selected to increase the efficiency of he production of lignans.

1 illus, 2 table, 12 ref

002346   Kirwale D K;Bharade S S (Botany Dep, Vivekanand College, Aurangabad) : Biotechnology of mushroom cultivation. Bioinfolet 2009, 6(4), 304-5.

Pleurotus sajor-caju, was cultivated on straw material of different cereals. Maize and wheat straw were found to be promising substrate for mushroom cultivitation, while bajra straw gave poor mushroom yield.

1 table, 2 ref

002345   Khare N, et al. (plant Biotechnology Div, Defence Institute of Bio-Energy Resource, DRDO, Goraparao, PO-Arjunpur, Uttarakhand-263 139) : In vitro regeneration protocol for tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum L. Var. pusa uphar). J appl Biosci 2008, 34(2), 199-202.

In an attempt for in vitro regeneration of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum L. var. pusa uphar), Organogenesis was achieved from calli in MS basal medium supplemented with IAA and BAP/ Zeatin. Best shooting was observed with IAA (0.5 mgL^{-1) and BAP (2.5 mgL-1) supplement and the frequency of shoot regeneration was 90%. Well-grown shoots, rooted easily on half MS supplemented with IAA and NAA. Best rhizogenesis was observed in plantlets cultured on MS media containing IAA (0.5 mgL-1). About 95% of the regenerated plantlets hardened successfully in sand: soil: vermicompost (1:1:1).}

1 illus, 2 tables, 12 ref

002344   Harisaranraj R;Suresh K;Saravana B S (Plant Biology and Plant Biotechnology Dep, Chikkaiah Naicker College, Erode, Tamil Nadu) : Effect of growth regulators on micropropagation of Rauvolfia serpentina (L.) Benth. Res J Biotechnol 2009, 4(1), 20-5.

Rauvolfia serpentina (L.) Benth. called Sarpagandha (the snake root) in Hindi, belongs to family Apocynaceae, This plant is listed in earliest Ayurvedic medicinal text the Charaka Samhita (c. 700 B. C.) and has been used since in olden days for the treatment of mental illness and insomnia. The roots of R. serpentina contain numerous alkaloids. Its indiscriminate use and poor method of conventional propagation have led this species to be included in the list of endangered plants. Thus a need arises to generate an efficient protocol for cloning of R. serpentina in order to regenerate propagules to replenish depleting forests and meeting the demand of commercial cultivation. The present study reveals the development of an efficient and simple process for large-scale clonal micropropagation of selected plants of R. serpentina and their successful field establishment. In vitro shoot multiplication from nodal explants of Rauvolfia serpentina was standardized by using MS (Murashige & Skoog) medium supplemented with a cytokinin (BA or Kin). Inclusion of NAA in the culture medium along with BA promoted a higher rate of shoot multiplication. The mean number of shoots per explant after 4 weeks of culture was maximum (5.21) on the MS medium supplemented with 2.0 mg l-1 BA and 0.25 mg l-1 NAA. The elongated shoots rooted within 7-8 days in Vz strength MS medium supplemented with 0.25 mg l-1 of NAA and 2% (w/v) sucrose. About 85% of the rooted plantlets survived acclimatization and transfer to the greenhouse. The present study paves a way for conservation and propagation of this important medicinal plant.

7 illus, 3 tables, 25 ref

002343   Ghosh M K;Ghosh U K (IITR, Saharanpur Campus, Paper Technology Dep, Saharanpur-247 001) : Biogas production in paper mills: existing technologies and modern approaches. IPPTA Jl 2008, 20(1), 87-92.

Pulp and paper mills have been categorized amongst one of the major energy intensive and highly polluting sectors. Energy cost accounts for more than 30% of total cost of paper production and on comparison with other industries this sector consumes twice the amount of fuels. The release of untreated or partially treated cellulose rich black liquor, having very high organic pollution load of waste chemicals by the small scale or agrobased paper mills, where chemical recovery is a major constraint, poses severe threat of water pollution and simultaneously causes loss of bio energy potential. In this context, the biomethanation process has been identified as a promising technological solution to the dual problems of high energy demand and environmental pollution. Discusses the existing biornethanation technologies in some of the major paper mills and some improved approaches regarding enhancement of biogas production from the paper mill wastes.

1 illus, 4 tables, 31 ref

002342   Gayen S;Ghosh U (Food Technology and Biochemical Engineering Dep, Jadavpur Univ, Kolkata-700 032, Email: ughoshftbe@yahoo.co.in) : Utilization of agri-horticultural wastes for production of tannase enzyme using Penicillium notatum NCIM 923 by solid fermentation. J mycopathol Res 2008, 46(2), 267-70.

Wastes are responsible for a major economic loss besides creating environmental pollution and disposal problem. So utilization of wastes is selected to reduce these problems as well as to produce the enzyme almost free of cost. Tannase enzyme can be used in the reduction of tannin present in tannery wastewater thereby reducing the pollution level of water bodies. It can be used in the clarification of fruit juices, preparation of cold water soluble instant tea, reduction of chill haze formation in beer, production of coffee flavored soft drinks and reduction of antinutritional effects of tannin in animal feed. The aim of work was to produce tannase from various solid wastes by solid-state fermentation technique and the organism of choice being Penicillium notatum NCIM 923. Among the various solid wastes used a combination of wheat bran and marigold flower produced maximum tannase activity.

6 illus, 18 ref

002341   Gadgile D P;Pangrikar P P;Chavan A M (Seed Pathology and Fungal Biotechnology Laboratory, Botany Dep, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada Univ, Aurangabad-431 004) : Stem end rot: post harvest disease of mango. Bioinfolet 2009, 6(4), 282.

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002340   Dhar R S;Lattoo S K;Arun Kumar;Qazi G N (Biotechnology Dep, Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Canal Road, Jammu Tawi-180 001, Email: rsapru@rediffmail.com) : Use of ISSR and RAPD markers to facilitate molecular characterization of Withania germplasm - a repository of pharmaceutically active metabolite. J Pl Biol 2008, 35(2), 107-13.

Withania somnifera (Dunal) is a plant of high repute due to its immense therapeutic value. The objective of the present investigation was to assess the genetic variation and their interrelationship among 46 accessions belonging to 7 eco-geographic regions using two molecular markers, RAPD and ISSR. A total of 115 bands were amplified from 11 RAPD primers, of which 90 were polymorphic and 5 ISSR primers amplified 41 bands, of which 34 were polymorphic. The average proportion of polymorphic loci across the primers was 78.5% and 82.9%, as detected by RAPD and ISSR, respectively. The molecular genetic diversity per primer averaged 5.75 (RAPD) and 5.50 (ISSR) as calculated by Shannon index. Based on the Jaccard's similarity index, dendrogram constructed showed an adequate variability among accessions and also revealed a meagre relation between genetic diversity and eco-geographic origin. The present study thus established that RAPD and ISSR are reliable molecular markers to assess the genetic diversity in Withania somnifera and can also identify diverse genotypes for the exploitation in breeding programmes for the production of pharmaceutically bioactive metabolites.

2 illus 2 tables, 23 ref

002339   Chandramouli M;Kumar Narender;Ambekar V; Karupothula S;Bhide S;Sabharwal S (Chemistry Dep, Fergusson College, Pune, Maharashtra, Email: chandramouli_meenakshi@yahoo.co.in) : Detection of alpha - amylase producing bacteria (Bacillus sp. 5250) from soil: isolation and optimization of various conditions of growth. Res J Biotechnol 2009, 4(1), 50.

Soil sample from Hadapsar, Pune was collected and amylase producing bacteria was isolated. The culture has demonstrated the ability to inductively produce amylase. The bacterial culture is able to grow in relatively higher temperature and tolerate a wide pH range. The growth pattern of the bacteria was studied at various stress conditions. The ability to produce amylase in presence of different carbon and nitrogen sources has been assessed. Starch and maltose are the only carbon sources that have effectively induced the bacteria to produce amylase whereas other sugars such as glucose, sucrose, lactose were found to suppress the production of the same. Media containing yeast extract and peptone together with carbon source was found to be optimal for production of amylase by the bacteria. The study of the nitrogen source such as ammonium chloride, potassium nitrate on production of amylase showed varied response on the growth of bacteria. The pure culture of the bacteria has been deposited at the NCIM depository and strain number has been obtained. The characterization of the pure culture was done and the bacterium was found to be Bacillus sp. Also effect of antibiotics and drugs on the bacteria was assessed.

5 illus, 2 tables, 14 ref

002338   Bose D;Ghosh U;Gangopadhyay H (Food Technology & Biochemical Engineering Dep, Jadavpur Univ, Kolkata-700 032) : Production of extracellular amyloglucosidase from Aspergillus oryzae by solid state fermentation utilizing agricultural wastes. J mycopathol Res 2008, 46(1), 23-31.

Extracellular starch degrading enzyme amyloglucosidase was produced under solid state fermentation by Aspergillus oryzae from municipal agricultural wastes and characterized along with optimization of various environmental conditions for its production. The production of amyloglucosidase was maximum at 30°C on 4th day of fermentation with 1:1 ratio of waste to water at stationary condition when the C:N ration was maintained at 16:1 with an adequate substarate (waste) concentration and particle size. The enzyme showed a maximum activity at 60°C with a pH of 4.8. Studies were also carried out to determine the specific activity, Km and Vmax value of the enzyme produced.

8 illus, 1 table, 25 ref

002337   Behera P R;Nayak P;Thiruna Voukkarasu M;Sahoo S (Plant Biotechnology Laboratory, Natural Products Dep, Institute of Minerals and Materials Technology (CSIR), Bhubaneswar-751 013, Email: mtarasu@yahoo.com) : Plant regeneration of Gmelina arborea Roxb. from cotyledonary node explants. Indian J Pl Physiol 2008, 13(3), 258-65.

Regeneration protocol has been developed for Gmelina arborea Roxb. using cotyledonary nodes. Multiple shoots were induced on Murashige and Skoog's (MS) medium supplemented with 6-benzyladenine (BA) and thidiazuron (TDZ) either alone or in combination with either indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) or oc-napthalene acetic acid (NAA). Cotyledonary nodes cultured on medium with BA (4.4 μM) + IAA (1.4 μM) produced higher number of shoots. Cultures maintained in TDZ supplemented medium showed poor response. In vitro regenerated shoots were cultured on to root induction medium consisting of half-strength MS supplemented with IAA or indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) either alone or in combination with 2, 3, 5-triiodobenzoic acid (TIBA). Rooting was best in the medium supplemented with 4.9 μM IBA + 2.0 μM TIBA. Rooted plantlets were acclimatized and transferred to the field with 70 % survival rate.

2 illus, 2 tables, 31 ref

002336   Banerjee M;Verma V (Laboratory of Algal Biotechnology, Bioscience Dep, Barkatullah Univ, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh) : Extremophilic syanobacteria and their biotecnological applications. J appl Biosci 2008, 34(2), 124-8.

The review briefly discusses about the presence of extremophilic cyanobacteria that are adapted to survive in unusual ecological niches, such as high temperatures, extremes of pH, high salt concentration and high pressure, along with their biotechnological applications. These extremophiles produce unique biocatalyst that function under extreme conditions comparable to those prevailing in various industrial processes.

58 ref

002335   Banerjee M;Gole S (Laboratory of Algal Biotechnology, Bioscience Dep, Barkatullah Univ, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh) : Cyanobacteria, nickel and environment-interaction. J appl Biosci 0000, 34(2), 129-38.

Cyanobacteria comprise a large and morphologically heterogeneous group of photoautotrophic, nitrogen fixing prokaryotes. Ni is known to induce stimulation of growth, heterocyst differentiation and nitrogenase activity in certain cyanobacteria. The toxicity of Nickel is dependent on the route of exposure and solubility of its compounds. Its' toxic effect is very complicated and differs markedly with different algal species, chemical species of the metal and environmental conditions. The mechanism of resistance to toxic metals is varied. Numerous studies have shown cyanobacteria can interact with heavy metals. They also possess several detoxification mechanisms to counteract metal stress which include the development of energy driven efflux pumps, oxidation state change to convert the metal to a less toxic form, binding of metal to cell surface, precipitation of insoluble metal complexes on cell surfaces, complexing of metal ions, vaporizing and elimination, biosorption, bioaccumulation, exclusion of heavy metals, change in metal binding proteins, trapping of metals in bodies containing sulphoquinovocyl diglyceride, and compartmentalization into polyphosphate bodies. This review attempts to bring forth the mechanisms involved in amelioration of Nickel toxicity in general and in rice fields in particular by cyanobacteria.

^iia99 ref

002334   Ambundo T;Oundo J O;Manohar R;Mbithi J;Kenya E (Biochemistry and Biotechnology Dep, Kenyatta University, P O Box 43844 00100 GPO, Nairobi Kenya, Email: kenya.eucharia@ku.ac.ke) : Impregnated dry filter mpaper as an alternative medium for transporting diarrhoeal stool samples. J Nat Conserv 2008, 20(2), 281-91.

The study aimed at determining the viability of impregnated dry filter paper as an alternative transport medium for diarrhoeal stool specimens. It was a cross-sectional study and carried out in Budalang'i, Western Kenya. A total of 336 diarrhoeal patients aged 0 to 85 years were studied. A new method for transporting diarrhoeal stoll samples .consisting of Whatman filter paper was impregnated with a solution containing 0.1% dextrose. Both Cary-Blair and the new medium were used to transport diarrhoeal stool specimens to the Centre for Microbiology Research (CMR), Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) laboratories in Nairobi. Isolation and biochemical characterization were performed according to standard methods. Results obtained indicated that Cary-Blair transport media was superior in isolation- of both Salmonella (52%) and Shigella (20%) while impregnated dry filter paper was best for the recovery of Vibrios (16%). The.recovery rates of both Salmonella and Shigella from the two media were nearly the same. In conclusion, the results showed that impregnated dry filter paper may not be superior to the' gold standard in "terms of recovery of enteric bacterial pathogens but may be an alternative in resource-poor, remote areas where epidemics occur more frequently.

5 illus, 2 tables, 10 ref

001472   Zhang L;Huang E;Gelbic I;Guan C;Guan Y;Guan X (Key Laboratory of Biopesticide and Chemical Biology, Ministry of Educa, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, 350002 Fuzhou, Fujian, Peo, ) : Cloning, expression and characterisation of a promising mosquitocidal gene. Indian J expl Biol 2009, 47(10), 799-803.

A new mosquitocidal gene, cyt1Aa6, was isolated and cloned from the novel Bacillus thuringiensis strain LLP29, previously isolated from the phylloplane of Magnolia denudata. Nucleotide sequence analysis of cyt1Aa6 indicated that the open reading frame consisted of 750 base pairs, encoding 249 amino acid sequences with a calculated molecular weight of 27.3681 kDa and a PI value of 4.77. An homological comparison revealed that the cyt1Aa6 amino acid sequence was 99% identical with those of known Cyt1Aa proteins. In addition, the cyt1Aa6 gene was successfully expressed in Escherichia coli BL21. Bioassays on Aedes albopictus showed that Bt LLP29 and the expressed BL21 were both toxic to 3rd-instar mosquito larvae. The isolation of cyt1Aa6 provides new opportunities for selecting new strains and to obtain novel B. thuringiensis products based on its toxins.

001471   Trivedi U B;Lakshminarayana D;Kothari I L; Makhija K K;Kapse H N (Electronics Dep, Sardar Patel Univ, Vallabh Vidyanagar) : Fabrication of enzyme based glucose biosensor. Prajna 2007, 15, 42-8.

An amperometric glucose biosensor based on the immobilization of the glucose oxidase enzyme has been fabricated. A polymer matrix of Polyethylenemine (PEI) and Polycarbomylsulphonate (PCS) hydrogel is utilized for the immobilization. The paper describes the fabrication details and the performance of the sensor. The effects of buffer solution pH and temperature on the performance of the fabricated biosensor have been studied and reported. The biosensor has been tested with the real samples of soft drinks and human blood. The results obtained during the analysis are compared with those of commercial methods and the implications are presented.

001470   Sharma P;Kurde S (School of Biotechnology, D.A.V.V., Indore, Madhya Pradesh) : Inhalation hazards & tolerence of ZnO nanoparticles. Ind Res Commun 2009, 3(1), 49-53.

Nanoparticles are small -scale substances (<100nm) with unique properties and thus complex exposure and health risk implications. Summarizes recent findings in exposure and toxicity of nanoparticles and their applications for assessing human health risks. Characterization of airborne particles indicates that exposures will depend on particle behaviors (e.g. disperse or aggregate) and that accurate, portable, and cost effective measurement techniques are essential for understanding exposure.The development of pulmonary tolerance was also assessed after single and repeated exposures of rats. Dermal uptake of nanoparticles could be important because of their presence in cosmetics, shampoos, sunscreens etc., in occupational settings airborne nanoparticles may also deposit on the skin. ZnO-induced PMN infiltration into the lungs may not necessarily be beneficial because lung injury continued to progress over the higher exposure period. When exposed groups compared to those of control, lung sections of Albino rats had discernible pathological difference.

2 illus, 2 tables, 21 ref

001469   Sharma N;Kapoor G;Gautam N;Neopaney B (Microbiology Research Lab, Basic Sciences Dep, University of Horticulture & Forestry, Nauni, Solan 173 230) : Characterization of a partially purified bacteriocin of Bacillus sp MTCC 43 isolated from Rhizosphere of radish (Raphanus sativus) & its application as a potential food biopreservative. J scient ind Res 2009, 68(10), 881-6.

Presents bacteriocin, produced from Bacillus sp. MTCC 43 isolated from rhizosphere of root crop radish, Raphanus sativus, as inhibitor against serious food pathogens (Staphylococcus aureus and Aeromonas hydrophila). Bacteriocin of Bacillus sp. MTCC 43, partially purified by salt saturation method, exhibits very high activity (2.66 x 10⁵ AU/ml). Viability of pathogens decreased drastically (up to 70%) within first 10 h of adding bacteriocin. Bacteriocin showed high thermostability (up to 100°C) for 10 min, expressed wide pH tolerance (4.0-10.0), and found sensitive to proteolytic enzyme trypsin.

001468   Pundir C S;Phaugat N (Biochemistry Research Lab, Biochemistry and Genetics Dep, M D University, Rohtak-124 001) : Construction of dissolved O₂ metric oxalate biosensor using PVC membrane bound sorghum leaf oxalate oxidase. J scient ind Res 2009, 68(9), 800-6.

Portable dissolved oxygen (DO) meter based oxalate biosensor has been constructed by mounting a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) membrane bound sorghum leaf oxalate oxidase on sensing part of combined electrode of an aqualytic DO meter. Biosensor showed optimum activity within 10-12 s at pH 5.0 and 30°C. A linear relationship was observed between oxalate conc. and O₂ consumption [1.0-10 μM (low conc. range), 0.1-1.0 μM (high conc. range)]. Biosensor gave mean value of oxalic acid in urine [22.5 mg/l in males (n=6) and 19.3 mg/l in females (n=6)], and in serum [3.2μM/l in males (n=6) and 2.9 μM/l in females (n=6)]. Biosensor is unaffected by physiological concentrations of Cl^- and NO^3-.

001467   Prasanna S S;Doble M (Biotechnology Dep, Indian Institute of Technology, Madras, Chennai-600 036, Email: mukeshd@iitm.ac.in) : Medical biofilms - its formation and prevention using organic molecules. J Indian Inst Sci 2008, 88(1), 27-35.

Biofilms play a significant role in the area of clinical medicine. Currently research is in progress to understand their formation with a view to develop preventive measures to fight the infections caused due to biofilms that are formed on implanted medical devices. The determination of biofilm architecture, particularly the spatial arrangement of micro colonies (clusters of cells) relative to one another, has profound implications for the function of these complex communities. Moreover, standard antimicrobial treatment fails to eradicate biofilms, due to the organisms adaptive resistance towards antibiotics. The need of the hour is the development of antimicrobial molecules or various combination techniques to counter biofilm infections. Explains the mechanism of biofilm development and the reasons for its resistance to antimicrobial agents. Also various possible preventive measures, in particular development of anti microbial small molecules, are also discussed.

4 illus, 2 tables, 52 ref

001466   Poras A;Prakash M M;Shrivastava S (Zoology Dep, Govt. Holkar Science College, Indore, Madhya Pradesh) : Effect of 17 alpha - methyl - testosterone on absolute growth rate of juvenile and adult of heteropneustes fossilis. Ind Res Commun 2008, 2(1), 66-9.

The study reports that the growth performance of juveniles and adults of H. fossilis was enhanced by giving 17 alpha- methyl - testosterone hormone incorporated diet. To compare the effects of different concentrations of 17 alpha-methyl -testosterone, three diets were prepared. The hormone incorporation in experimental diet A, B and C were at the rate of 1,2 and 3 ppm respectively. Control diet was prepared by the same ingredient combination, but without addition of hormone. Gain in weight was taken as index of growth. The highest growth performance was recorded in juvenile and in adult stage with diet "A".

2 illus, 4 tables, 11 ref

001465   Muthukumar K;Bharath C;Pugalenthi V;Velan M (Chemical Engineering Dep, Anna University, Chennai-600 025) : Biodegradation kinetics of benzoic and anthranilic acids by Micrococcus sp.. J scient ind Res 2009, 68(10), 900.

Presents biodegradation of benzoic acid (BA) and anthranilic acid (AA) by Micrococcus sp. under aerobic conditions. Initial concentrations of BA and AA were varied (500-2500 mg/l) and almost complete biodegradation of BA and AA was observed within 30 h. Andrews kinetic model for single substrate was fitted to obtain maximum specific growth rates, half saturation and substrate inhibition constants. Cell growth with degrading BA (μ_m,BA = 0.645 h^-1) was faster than with degrading AA (μ_m,AA = 0.63 h-1). Under biodegradation of BA and AA, first order rate constant values decreased with increase in initial concentration.

001464   Gaherwal S;Prakash M M (Biotechnology Dep, Govt. Holkar Science College, Indore, Madhya Pradesh) : Protective role of lymphoctes in helminthic infection. Ind Res Commun 2009, 3(1), 54-5.

This study was investigated to find out protective capacity of the mice against Hymenolepis diminuta infection. The present investigate data to indicate that the lymphocytes are involved in the immune system function. The increase in the counts of lymphocytes in the mice blood indicated the enhancement of immunity, as these are the principal cells, which play main role in the induction of immunity.

1 illus, 1 table, 7 ref

001463   Dey G;Negi B;Gandhi A (Biotechnology & Bioinformatics Dep, Jaypee University of Information Technology, Waknaghat, Solan-173 215, Email: gargi.dey@juit.ac.in) : Can fruit wines be considered as functional food? - an overview. Nat Prod Radiance 2009, 8(4), 314-22.

We are in midst of antioxidant superfood revolution. Nutritional studies on examining the foods for their protective and disease preventing potential have established that apart from grapes, fruits like cranberry, sweet cherry, blueberry are equal or sometimes better sources of flavonoids and phenolics. These facts have given a new dimension to the non-grape wines or fruit wines. A lot of efforts have been directed towards potential use of these fruits for production of wines which are rich in phenolics and flavonoids. Presents an overview on the phenolic and flavonoid contents of the non-grape wines or fruit wines and their antioxidant potency. It has also been tried to answer the question, whether fruit wines can also be considered as functional food.

000420   Yupsanis T A;Haliapas S;Syros T D;Economou A S (Biochemistry Dep, School of Chemistry, Aristotle Univ, 541 24 Thessaloniki, Greece, Email: yupsanis@chem.auth.gr) : DNase and RNase responses of Petunia x hybrida during transition to floweirng as affected by light treatments. J Pl Biochem Biotechnol 2008, 17(2), 155-60.

Responses of DNase and RNase isoforms and their specific activities following transition to flowering (1 to 6 weeks) were examined in Petunia x hybrids under different light conditions. Petunia x hybrids plants formed flower buds at the 4th week in the case of high light and at the 6th week in the far-red light treatment, while no flower bud formation was observed upon red light and control light treatments. The DNase and RNase activities decreased from the 1st to the 6th week during transition to flowering. Native-PAGE analysis revealed the appearance of one DNase (D₁) and seven RNase (R₁ - R₇) isoforms in all light treatments. It is assumed that the progress of the flowering could be related to the disappearance or reduction of D₁ DNase band intensity and disappearance of R₁, R₂ and R₇ RNase isoforms. Consequently, these isoforms could be used as potent biochemical markers of flower bud formation under light intensity as well as light quality treatments.

2 illus, 27 ref

000419   Verma S S;Chinnusamy V;Bansal K C (National Research Centre on Plant Biotechnology, Indian Agricultural Research Institute Campus, New Delhi-110 012, Email: kailashbansal@hotmail.com) : Simplified floral dip method for transformation of Brassica napus and B. carinata. J Pl Biochem Biotechnol 2008, 17(2), 197-200.

Floral dip method of genetic transformation has been developed in two different species of Brassica namely B. napus cv Elect and B. carinata cv Pusa Gaurav. Binary vector containing B. carinata Zinc Finger transcription factor (BcZF1) gene under the transcriptional control of abiotic stress-inducible Late Embryogenesis Abundant 1 (LEA1) promoter was transformed into Agrobacterium tumefaciens strain GV-3101. This strain was used for transformation of Brassica spp via Agrobacterium-mediated floral dip method. Agrobacterium cells cultured in Yeast Extract Mannitol (YEM) were harvested and resuspended in half MS solution containing 5% sucrose and 0.05% Silwet L-77. The transformation was performed by dipping inflorescence at the initial blossom stage. Seeds from these plants were harvested and screened by germinating them on MS medium supplemented with kanamycin (25 mg l^-1). The kanamycin resistant putative transgenic plants were further confirmed by PCR and RT-PCR using npfll gene-specific primers. The results showed that the Agrobacterium-mediated floral-dip transformation can be a successful strategy to develop transgenic B. napus and B. carinata in a short time without undergoing cumbersome vacuum infiltration or tissue culture steps.

^ssc3 illus, 1 able, 17 ref

000418   Sewa Ram;Mishra B (Directorate of Wheat Research, , Post Box 158, Karnal-132 001, Email: sewaram01@yahoo.com) : Biochemical basis and molecular genetics of processing and nutritional quality traits of wheat. J Pl Biochem Biotechnol 2008, 17(2), 111-26.

Wheat is unique in the sense that large numbers of end-use products such as chapati, bread, biscuits, noodles and pasta products are made from it. This is possible because of visco-elastic property imparted to the dough by its gluten proteins. Grain texture, gluten constituents and starch composition in the endosperm are major determinants of end-product quality. Each end-use product has its own specific requirements. Therefore, to expedite the breeding programme for the development of product-specific varieties, understanding the grain components at biochemical/molecular level and their relationship with quality, is needed. Impressive advances have been made in understanding the subunit composition of glutenins, gliadins and starch at biochemical and molecular levels. Molecular markers for these components have been identified, and are being used in breeding for the improvement of wheat quality. Wheat is also deficient of certain micronutrients such as Fe and Zn and lysine content. There is increasing concern globally for the improvement of the nutritional quality of wheat for micronutrient content, and protein and starch quality. Transgenic approach will be helpful in manipulating metabolic pathways for enhancing micronutrient bioavailability and increased lysine content. In this review, information on recent developments that have taken place in understanding the biochemical basis and molecular genetics of processing and nutritional quality of wheat grain and its future implications, has been provided.

^iia5 illus, 211 ref

000417   Seong E S;Guo J;Wang M H (School of Biotechnology, Kangwon National Univ, Chuncheon, Kangwon-do, 200-701, South Korea, Email: mhwang@kangwon.ac.kr) : Chilli pepper (Capsicum annuum) MYB transcription factor (CaMYB) is induced by abiotic stresses. J Pl Biochem Biotechnol 2008, 17(2), 193-6.

Described a cDNA clone, CaMYB, whose product exhibits significant similarity to the R2R3 class transcription factor of Solanum containing two SANT domains. CaMYB was strongly induced following NaCI or mannitol treatment and also increased in response to cold. It was induced much earlier than Cadehydrin and CaPFH genes by abiotic elicitors and environmental stresses. CaMYB transcript levels were clearly increased by ABA, and even CaMYB was induced at early times in response to H₂O₂ transcript levels but fell later. CaMYB expression decreased during non-host resistant responses to bacterial pathogens. These observations suggest that the chilli pepper R2R3 MYB transcription factor homolog may play a major role in abiotic stress signaling pathways.

^ssc4 illus, 18 ref

000416   Prakash K;Patil R H;Vishwakarma K S; Maheshwari V L (Biochemistry Dep, School of Life Sciences, North Maharashtra Univ, Jalgaon-425 001, Email: vlmaheshwari@rediffmail.com) : Bioprospecting for bioactive circular protein(s) in indigenous plants. J Pl Biol 2008, 35(1), 53-7.

Few indigenous members belonging to the family Rubiaceae and Violaceae were screened for the presence of bioactive circular proteins. Bioefficiency against the major storage pest of grain legumes, Callosobruchus chinensis (L.) was taken as a marker tool. Of the six plants screened, the partially purified extracts of Anthocephalus cadamba, Gardenia gummifera and Viola odorata showed good bioefficacy measured in terms of adulticidal, ovicidal and ovipositional deterrent activities against C. chinensis. The extracts also showed heamolytic action against type 'A' RBC even after boiling at 100°C for 15 min and proteolytic digestion typical of circular proteins (cyclotides).

4 tables, 21 ref

000415   Niranja Reddy B P;Gupta B;Kotasthane A S (Biotechnology Dep, Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidhyalaya, Raipur, Chhattisgarh) : Identification of QTL responsible for BLB resistance: a candidate gene approach. Int J Pl Sci 2008, 3(1), 242-6.

To identify putative candidate gene(s) involved in defence response, in silica anchoring was performed of the QTL genetic marker data to the rice physical map. In total, three QTLs responsible for resistance specificity to Xanthomonas oryzae pv oryzae (ISO 7) were identified using CT 9993-5-10-1 -M / IR 62266-42-6-2 double haploid population. The QTL qBB 3.1, on chromosome 7 (EM 17_3-ME 2_15) was saturated with 59 markers, 96 ESTs and 71 genes In total, 45 putative positional candidate genes were identified and classified based on their function, which include two putative Xa21 kinase genes. It is suggested that, the generated data can further be used for the dissection and validation of the QTL to understand the molecular mechanisms of the plant pathogen interaction and to develop a resistant variety.

2 tables, 19 ref

000414   Nandakumar N;Tyagi N K;Balram M;Chikkappa K; Aprajita G;Mohapatra T;Prabhu K V;Singh A K (Genetics Div, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi-110 012, Email: aks_gene@yahoo.com) : Molecular analysis of transgene (psy) inheritance in a golden rice line developed in the genetic background of IR64. J Pl Biochem Biotechnol 2008, 17(2), 127-32.

Stability in transgene inheritance and expression is an important consideration in utilizing transgenic germplasm for the development of commercially viable transgenic crops. In the present study, inheritance of the carotenogenic transgene encoding enzyme phytoene synthase (psy) was studied in rice through PCR analysis in F₂, BC₁F₁ (Swarna X F₁), its reciprocal cross (F₁ X Swarna) and BC₂F₂ populations. Segregation distortion was observed for the transgene in F₂and BC₁F₁ (Swarna X F₁) populations. However, in the case of reciprocal BC₁F₁ (F₁ X Swarna) cross, the transgene showed normal Mendelian segregation ratio 1:1. This trend was also observed in the BC₂F₂ where the transgene followed an expected seregation ratio of 3:1. Segregation distortion of the transgene has been explained on the basis of the position effect of gametophytic selection locus ga2. The results obtained here are significant for the molecular marker assisted transfer of the golden rice transgene to widely grown Indian rice varieties.

2 tables, 25 ref

000413   Mukhopadhyay M J;Mukhopadhyay S (Biotechnology Dep, Institute of Genetic Engineering, 30, Thakurhat Road, BADU, Kolkata-700 128, Email: mita_jm@yahoo.com) : Biotechnological approach for enhancement of colchicine accumulation in Iphigenia indica Kunth. J Pl Biochem Biotechnol 2008, 17(2), 185-8.

Attempt has been made to enhance colchicine biosynthesis in Iphigenia indica L grown in vitro by exogenous supply of precursors and elicitors during culture. Addition of tyrosine at 30 mg l^-1 enhanced colchicine accumulation up to 6.1 mg g^-1 dry wt (control 0.99 mg g^{-1 dry wt), while 25 μM NiSO₄ stimulated maximum colchicine accumulation (10.25 fold of control value). The colchicine accumulation was recorded as 16.25 mg g-1 dry wt when NiSO₄was added with tyrosine.}

^ssc2 tables, 21 ref

000412   Mangrauthia S K;Jain R K;Praveen S (Biochemistry Div, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi-110 012, Email: shellpyraveen@iari.res.in) : Sequence motifis comparisons establish a functional portrait of a multifunctional protein HC-Pro from Papaya ringspot potyvirus. J Pl Biochem Biotechnol 2008, 17(2), 201-4.

Helper component proteinase (HC-Pro) is a multifunctional protein responsible for multiple molecular events in viral cycle. Here, we demonstrate that functional correlation of sequence motifs of HC-Pro is an important source to predict its role in deubiqutinylation pathway and rescuing viral proteins from degradation. The sequence of papaya ringspot viral HC-Pro was compared with respect to both inter and intra-species across different potyviruses. This study suggested that highly conserved domains involved in post transcriptional gene silencing (PTGS) suppression and proteolytic activity are essential functions in plant-virus cycle. In contrast, mechanisms primed for differentiation such as host specificity and virus replication are less conserved. Also, they contribute substantially to the differences among HC-Pro, derived from different potyviruses. The results obtained from this study provide a framework for new hypothesis and research directions in the area of differential role of potyviral HC-Pro.

2 illus, 2 tables, 16 ref

000411   Mahato S;Mehta A;Pandey R K (Biotechnology Dep, Ranchi Women's College, Ranchi-834 001, Email: suchi75tra@gmail.com ) : In-vitro regeneration and callus formation from different parts of seedling of Plantago ovata forsk. Bioscan 2009, 4(1), 131-4.

Parts of Plantago ovata Forsk, a medicinal plant commonly known as Isabgol was cultured on Murashige and Skoog's MS medium supplemented with different concentration of IBA, NAA, IAA, 2,4-D in isolation and also in combination. Growth and plant propagation from cultured lower hypocotyl part and upper hypocotyl of Plantago ovata (Gujrat lsabgol-2 variety) has been described in in-vitro condition. Only one (Gl-2) out of four (HI-5, HI-34, Niharika and GI-2) varieties of Plantago ovata Forsk. responded in culture condition. Physiological state of the explant was one of the factors for morphogenic response. Type of explant and concentration of growth regulators affected the morphogenic response in the culture medium.

5 illus, 1 table, 16 ref

000410   Kore G V;Kasar R R;Khobragade C N (NO, M.G.M. College of Agricultural Biotechnology, Aurangabad-431 003, Email: ganeshkore1@gmail.com) : Effect of microwave radiation on enzyme activity with respect to product formation. Bioscan 2009, 4(1), 191-3.

The effect of conventional heating and mi different solvent system at different tempers + water as a solvent yields more product aqueous system. Also the amount of prodi conventional heating.

1 table, 12 ref

000409   Kaur R;Gupta M;Majeed S (Biotechnology Dep, Dr. Y.S. Parmar Univ of Horticulture & Forestry, Nauni, Solan-173 230, Email: rkaur_uhf@rediffmail.com) : Jatamansi-a temperate herb of medicinal importance. Envir Ecol 2008, 26(4B), 2108-11.

About 8% of the world's flora is facing extinction and that forms a total of approximately 4,160 medicinal and aromatic plant species that are threatened. Nardostachys grandiflora is one such threatened medicinal plant species found in high altitudes of the Himalayas, ranging from 3,000 to 5,000 m msl. This plant has been listed under endangered species. Indiscriminate and un-scientific harvesting by unskilled labor has led to severe pressure on its availability and its existence is threatened in the wild. There is need to study its genetic diversity so that elite germplasm can be multiplied to meet the demands of pharmaceutical industries.

23 ref

000408   Kanaujia A;Sharma R C;Agarwal R K (Zoology Dep, Lucknow Univ, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh) : Sero-prevalence of HIV / AIDS in jail inmates of Bundelkhand region. J Envir Biosci 2008, 22(2), 177-86.

Investigations were carried out to study the prevalence of HIV/AIDS infection in the jail inmates at Bundelkhand region. The jail inmates are selected for the study. Total 2 samples were found positive for HIV infection. Thus the prevalence rate (%) of HIV among study population of jail inmates in the present investigation was found to be 0.98 %.

11 tables, 13 ref

000407   Jasmin Francy F;Chidambaram Pillai S;Suresh N (Plant Biology and Biotechnology Dep, V.O. Chidambaram College, Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, Email: drcpbotvoc@yahoo.co.in) : Pharmacognostical studies on the leaves of Tecoma stans (L.) Kunth. Biomed 2009, 4(1), 79-87.

Tecoma stans (L.) Kunth (Family Bignoniaceae) is an ornamental plant grown for its bell shaped yellow showy flowers. The leaf extract is traditionally used as potent anti diabetic and antidote against poisonous bites. A detailed pharmacognostic study was undertaken to validate this organ as a potential drug.

3 tables, 17 ref

000406   Hossain M M;Sharma M;Pathak P (Botany Dep, Chittagong Univ, Chittagong-4331, Bangladesh) : In vitro mass propagation of an economically important orchid, Cymbidium aloifolium (L.) SW.. J Orchid Soc India 2008, 22(1-2), 91-5.

An efficient and reproducible protocol was developed for large-scale propagation of an epiphytic orchid, Cymbidium aloifolium (L.) Sw.. Protocorm-like bodies (PLBs) were induced from the base of the 2-3 months old seedlings on MS (Murashige and Skoog, 1962) medium fortified with different concentrations of BAP. Maximum number of PLBs was induced in first subculture; their number, however, declined remarkably during the course of second and third subculture. Secondary PLBs were obtained during subculturing on the same medium and 5.0 mgl^-1 BAP was found to be most effective. BAP at lower concentrations (1.0 and 2.0 mgl^-1 though did not prove effective, growth and development of the seedlings was promoted. Rooting was induced in half strength MS medium supplemented with 0.5 mgl^-1 IAA. The plantlets with well-developed shoots and roots were transplanted in the greenhouse with 95% survival.

6 illus, 43 ref

000405   Hong P I;Chen J T;Chang W C (NO, Institute of Plant and Microbial Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei 115, Taiwan, Email: jentsung@nuk.edu.tw) : Effect of salicylic and acetylsalicylic acid on direct somatic embryogenesis in Oncidium. J Pl Biochem Biotechnol 2008, 17(2), 149-53.

Effects of salicylic and acetylsalicylic acid on direct somatic embryogenesis were investigated using leaf explants of two cultivars of Oncidium on 1/2 MS medium with or without thidiazuron. In cv Gower Ramsey, salicylic acid (1, 5, 10, 15, 20, 50 μM) either alone or in combination with thidiazuron (4.54 μM) retarded and delayed embryogenesis. In contrast, in the presence of 4.54 μM of thidiazuron, acetylsalicylic acid at 0.1 μM concentration promoted embryogenesis. In cv Sweet Sugar, all concentrations of salicylic acid with or without thidiazuron proved inhibitory on embryo induction. However, in the presence of 0.45 μM thidiazuron, 0.1 and 1 μM acetylsalicylic acid promoted embryogenesis. In addition, in the presence of 4.54 μM thidiazuron, 0.01, 0.1 and 1 μM acetylsalicylic acid promoted embryogenesis.

1 illus, 5 tables, 17 ref